Category Archives: Weather

Words in Progress, One Morning at a Time on April 25/2025

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Good Morning: My old Dad always said; “George, watch the Sky, Not the Calendar.” Lot of truth in them few words.

So here we are—April 25, 2025. That’s a date that really stands out, isn’t it? Back in the day, people would have called this a marker—a day when the past gives a little nod to the future. It feels like a great day to plant something new, fix what’s broken, or make a promise. You know, twenty-five is halfway to fifty, and that’s a gentle reminder: you’re never too far gone to start over, but you’ve been around long enough to know a thing or two. It’s a good moment to reflect and think about fresh starts!

What’s The Weather For Port Loring, Ontario, GW?

Friday, April 25, 2025

  • Daytime:
    Cloudy with scattered showers in the morning, turning to light rain in the afternoon.
    High: 59°F (15°C)
    Winds: Northeast at 11 mph (18 km/h)
    Precipitation: 0.08 to 0.16 inches (2–4 mm)
  • Evening/Night:
    Steadier rain overnight—good sleeping weather if your roof ain’t leaking.
    Low: 38°F (3°C)
    Winds: Northeast at 13 mph (21 km/h)
    Precipitation: 0.39 to 0.59 inches (10–15 mm)

And, as my old Dad would say. “George, a cool rain on a spring day? That’s the soil’s way of stretching before the real work begins.”

Highway 522 is picking up traffic-wise. Yesterday, while I was working outside, I couldn’t help but notice the steady hum of tires on pavement, more cars than usual, most of them local. You can always tell; Out-of-towners slow down to take in the scenery; locals slow down to see who’s in your yard and what you’re fixing or doing. …and if they don’t wave back, they’re probably too deep in thought, like wondering why their favorite fishing spot got ‘crowded’ all of a sudden.

On another note, yesterday turned out to be quite a busy day! My wife and I spent the whole day outside—I was fixing up one of our old buildings and cleaning around my shop, while she worked away in the flower gardens. I’ve got to say, they’re looking really nice now! After we finished, we took a moment to step back and appreciate what we’d done. We did our part, and now it’s up to Mother Nature. She’ll take over and bring on the spring flowers and all the leaves, that are patiently waiting for the rain and warmer weather to arrive. It sure is nice to watch everything start to grow again!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, if the weather holds up, I’m thinking I’ll tackle a bit more work around the old woodworking shop. But if it doesn’t cooperate, that’s alright—I’ve got plenty to keep me busy here around the house. It’s a never-ending list for my wife and me, especially now that we’re gearing up for our big garage sale in about three weeks. Let me tell you, it’s going to be one huge sale! It’s amazing what two old folks can accumulate over the years. At any rate, there’ll be something for everyone, no matter their age. We’re excited to see what treasures we can pass along!

With that, I’m off once again for breakfast that my lovely wife has prepared for me. After that, we’ll settle in for our morning chat over a warm cup of hot cocoa. It’s the perfect way to start the day together!

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Mornings Full of Words Yet to Be Told on April 24/2025

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Good Morning: From Where the Only Deadline Is the Sun Going Down.

Well, she’s a cloudy wet morning here waking up in cottage country, and the temperature at the time of this post was sitting at 43.7°F (6.5°C). But in saying all this, we’re catching a touch of sunshine peeking through now and then, just enough to lift the spirits a bit.

🌤️ Today – Thursday, April 24

Well, today we’re looking at a high of about 65°F (18°C). While showers are still likely on and off, there’s a fair chance we’ll see some breaks in the clouds with a bit of sun sneaking through. Not the best day for hanging laundry or working in the garden, but if that sun holds, you might sneak in a bit of work outside.

🌙 Tonight

Temperatures dropping to about 44°F (7°C). Still cloudy, and maybe the odd shower. Good night for a hot drink and a warm blanket.

🌦️ Tomorrow – Friday, April 25

Cooler tomorrow, with a high around 54°F (12°C). More clouds and scattered showers. Could even hear a bit of thunder if it builds up enough. Dropping to 38°F (3°C) by night. Still not great for outside work unless you’re dressed for it.

At any rate, that’s the way she’s looking folk’s, a damp and grey day, but that’s spring in the north, she takes her time.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, but it’s still early. The thing one has to realize that around these parts, folks don’t get to moving all that fast. Oh, they’re up, puttering around the kitchen, and peeking out the window, but most are still in that morning fog, holding onto a warm mug and staring off like they’re waiting for a sign from above on what to tackle first.

Truth is, out here we don’t rush into the day, we ease into it, kind of like an old tractor on a cold morning… takes a bit to get going. Most of us start with a few sips of coffee, a good stretch, maybe a word or two with the cat. And if the weather’s not looking all that inviting, well, that just makes it easier to stay put and think about the work… Instead of actually getting to it.

On another note, with the weather being so nice yesterday, I managed to get a good day’s work in on a few outdoor projects that had been waiting their turn. I got that wall put up in one of our outbuildings, and even tackled some yard work—cleaned out the fire pit from last year’s burning, and took care of a few other odds and ends. All in all, a good day, and I felt better for it by the time I came in.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with it being so wet outside this morning, I’ll probably stick to some work here at my computer. But if the sun decides to show her face and things warm up a bit, I’ll head outdoors. We’ve got plenty to do out there, and I’m sure the fresh air will do me more good than sitting in front of this computer.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store. And as I mentioned at the beginning of this post, we’re still seeing a bit of sunshine! Here’s hoping it sticks around.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Stories in the Making, One Morning at a Time on April 23/2025

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Good morning! You know… out here, the only real chatter worth listening to comes from the chickadees in the trees, not from the phone lines. But when the phone does ring, it’s rarely anyone we actually want to hear from. And more often than not, it’s a telemarketer trying to sell us something we didn’t even know we needed, or a recorded voice asking for our vote like we’ve been best friends since high school.

Well, we’re finally getting a bit of sunshine this morning, and I’ve got to say, it’s a welcome sight. The weather hasn’t been all that kind to us so far this spring… cold, damp, and downright unpredictable. I’m hoping it’ll make up for all the nonsense it’s thrown at us these last few weeks… after all, we’re closing in on May, and it’s about time we got some decent weather.

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

April 23 to April 24, 2025

Today – Wednesday
After a stretch of wet and dreary weather, we’re finally getting a bit of sunshine. Skies will stay mostly clear, with a high around 50°F (10°C) a fine day to get a few outside chores done. At any rate, it’s a welcome change. Oh, and the wind will be light coming in from the west with dry conditions staying with us for most of the day.

Tonight
Clear and cool tonight, with temperatures dipping to about 39°F (4°C). A calm evening, good for stargazing, which we have a lot of in our area. Might be a touch damp by morning with some patchy ground frost in lower spots.

Tomorrow – Thursday
The day will start off bright, but clouds will creep in by late morning. Expect a high near 55°F (13°C), with a slight chance of a stray afternoon shower. Nothing major, but enough to make you pause before hauling out the laundry line. Overnight, it’ll cool back down to around 40°F (5°C), which means it’s still not quite time to leave the greenhouse door wide open.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for an easy drive for anyone heading off to the big city for supplies. Traffic’s picking up too, mostly locals out and about, doing their rounds, either ticking off errands or, more often than not, catching up on the latest gossip. Around here, a trip to the post office can take a good hour if you run into the right (or wrong) crowd—especially those who seem to know what’s going on before it even happens.


On another note, yesterday I spent the whole day in front of my computer, working away with my wife by my side. We’ve been going through old newspapers and magazines she’s saved over the years, scanning every page that features one of my stories. I have to tell you, we worked hard all day and still barely made a dent in what’s stacked up in boxes—hundreds of them, at least. The problem with old newspapers is they deteriorate over time, and on top of that, they’re a real hassle to move around. But now, thanks to the high-tech setup our son helped us get going, we can have every story I’ve ever written stored in one place. And the best part? It’ll show the dates and other details for each one. Pretty handy, right? Now, we can flip through them whenever we want, without all the heavy lifting.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with the sun finally shining today, once it warms up a bit, I’ll be heading out to the old woodworking shop. There’s plenty to do—first, I’ll be cleaning things up a bit, then I’ll finish building the one wall that needed repairs on the end of one of our outbuildings. And after that? Well, we’ll see. There’s still a lot to tackle as we get ready for the big spring sale we’re planning.

So, with that, I’m off for the breakfast my little woman made for me… oatmeal, or porridge as some might call it, is on the menu this morning. After that, we’ll settle in with our hot cups of cocoa and enjoy a good chat. We always look forward to talking to each other before the day gets started.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Thoughts Before the Ink Dries on April 21/2025

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Good Morning, From where the Trees Don’t Care About Your Problems, and the Only Rush Hour’s When the Deer Cross the Road.

It’s a cloudy morning here in Cottage Country, and the weather’s setting the tone for a cozy, indoor kind of day.

🌧️ Monday, April 21 – Rainy and Breezy

Today, except scattered showers throughout the day. The skies will stay gray, with clouds hanging low over the treetops.

  • High: 54°F (12°C)
  • Low: 36°F (2°C)
  • Rainfall: Around 0.39 inches (10 mm)
  • Winds: From the southwest at 15 to 25 mph (24 to 40 km/h), rustling the pines.

The rain should taper off by evening, but the chill in the air will linger — the kind that makes you reach for your long handles, and think twice about stepping out without your hat.

🌥️ Tuesday, April 22 – Grey Skies and Chilly Winds

Tomorrow brings more of the same — overcast skies, brisk air, and a touch of morning drizzle. And if we are real lucky, a touch of sunshine might show herself.

Winds: Will shift to the northwest at 10 to 20 mph (16 to 32 km/h), clearing the last of the rain clouds by afternoon.

High: 47°F (8°C)

Low: 30°F (-1°C)

Rainfall: Light, around 0.04 inches (1 mm)

Highway 522 is bare and dry at the time of this post, and the traffic is next to nill.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away outside, being that it was so nice and sunny. The wind was cool, but the sun was throwin’ off some heat for a change, which made it real nice for gettin’ some outside work done up.

My wife and I even got a chance to do some front porch sittin’ in the afternoon, which was sure nice for a change. Nothin’ like soakin’ up some of that vitamin D3 the way it should be done.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, since the weather’s not going to be so nice today, I might do some work here at my computer. I’ve been going through a bunch of newspapers I wrote for, years ago that my wife saved, and I have to say, they sure are interesting — like stepping back in time.

But, I might head out to the old woodworking shop and clean things up in there a bit later on. We’ll see what happens. I never really know what I’ll be doing. Start off with one thing, end up doing another.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then see what the day has in store.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Stories from a Time That Listens on April 20/2025

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Good morning, folks! You know, thinking on things, I’ve come to realize that I’ve found more wisdom in a pile of firewood than in half the stuff people are spreading these days—like fake news and half-baked opinions.

So what is the weather going to be for Port Loring, Ontario, Canada? Well… the weather’s slowly turning the corner, but winter’s still hangin’ on a bit.

Sunday through Tuesday, expect cool days and cold nights. Highs will be between 47 and 52°F (8–11°C), and it’ll dip near or below freezing at night. Some sun on Sunday, but rain moves in Monday and Tuesday, and it’ll feel downright chilly, especially with Tuesday’s high around 47°F (8°C).

By midweek, we’ll catch a break. Wednesday brings more sun and a high near 55°F (13°C). Thursday’s warmer at 65°F (18°C), though clouds will move back in. More rain expected Friday, with a high near 59°F (15°C) and a low of 36°F (2°C).

The weekend looks decent—sunny and dry, with temps holding in the upper 50s°F (14°C) and getting warmer into the start of May. Nights will stay cool, but the ground’s thawing, and the bush is waking up.

Looking ahead, it’s shaping up to be a hot summer. A big heat ridge down south may stretch north and stick around, and if the pattern holds, we’ll get our fair share of hot and humid days by June. Storms could be more common, too, especially later in May.

Best have your gardens planned and your rain barrels ready. Could be a wild weather year.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, and I suspect it’ll stay that way for most of the day—it is Easter Sunday, after all. And speaking of Easter, I’ve always had a soft spot for the old Easter Bunny. For me, this time of year has always been about spring waking up, kids hunting for eggs, and maybe sneaking a bit of chocolate. But the thing is… somewhere along the line, folks brought in other meanings—and that’s their choice. But the truth is, the idea of the Easter Bunny didn’t come from religion. It actually came from German settlers, who brought the tradition with them when they came to North America back in the 1700s. They believed in a hare that laid colorful eggs, and over time it became what a lot of us grew up with. These days, I think some folks have gotten the story a little mixed up. Me? I stick with the truth, and the truth is—sometimes a bunny with a basket says more about the season than anything else.

On another note, with the weather being so wet and miserable yesterday, I decided to stay inside and spend some time at my computer. Meanwhile, my wife was steadily working away, sorting through things we haven’t used in years—getting everything ready for the big sale we’ve got planned in a few weeks. Of course, we’ll wait until the weather warms up a bit. No sense having folks standing around shivering. Much nicer when everyone can enjoy the day, browse around, and maybe share a story or two while they’re at it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today the sun’s peekin’ out, and by the feel of things, it’s gonna warm up a bit. That’s good news, because I’ve been itchin’ to get back to work on the wall in one of my sheds—the one I started about a week ago. With the cold we’ve had, I set it aside for a while, but it’s been sitting there, half-done, playin’ on my mind. Today feels like a good day to pick up where I left off, that is, once breakfast is taken care of.

And speaking about breakfast—living out here in the country, you learn to move with the weather, and today it’s giving us a break. My lovely wife’s got bacon, eggs, and toast cooking this morning, and let me tell ya—there ain’t much better than waking up to the smell of bacon grease cracklin’ in the pan and a pot of coffee perkin’ on the stove. That scent rolls through the house like a warm wind drifting across the back field. It’s the kind of morning that makes you feel like you’re setting’ out from the bunkhouse, with a full belly and the day ahead of you. The bacon’s crisp, the coffee’s strong, and everything just tastes better when you’ve got the quiet of the countryside around you.

Have a great day, folks: Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

What the Old Pen Knows on April 19/2025

Only On The Walters Post!

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Good Morning Folks! The best stories come from the days when nothing went as planned.

Port Loring Weather – Saturday, April 19 & Sunday, April 20, 2025

Today (Saturday):
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55°F (13°C).

Tonight:
Clear and crisp, with temperatures dipping to around 28°F (-2°C). A perfect evening to enjoy a warm fire and a hot cup of tea.

Tomorrow (Sunday):
Partly cloudy skies, with a high of 49°F (9°C). Light winds and dry conditions could make it a nice day for a walk or tending to the garden.

Sunday Night:
Mostly cloudy, with a low near 32°F (0°C). A calm night, ideal for stargazing or… sharing stories.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, which is not surprising for a Saturday, since most folks are likely sleeping in, and I can’not’t say I blame them. As for me, the moment daylight starts filtering through the windows, I am wide awake and ready to get moving. I guess there is some truth to what my old Dad used to say: “Get out of bed, old timer, you are burning daylight.”

On another note, with yesterday being so wet, I spent the day here in front of my computer. I managed to write up a couple more stories for the folks I write for, and after that, I decided to go through some old papers that my wife has been saving. They show all the stories I’ve written over the years for various newspapers—literally hundreds of them. It was kind of nice to see the names of the papers and the dates. Some of the stories I can’t even remember writing—it’s been so long. A real walk down memory lane.

So, with all that in mind, I spoke with my son, Karl. He suggested I scan every page with my story on it, and then he’ll save them digitally, which will not only create more room in our house, but also make it easier to look through. That’s the plan, anyway. We’ll see how it works out. I know I won’t get them all done now that the weather’s warming up, as I’m not one to spend nice days indoors. But I’ll tackle what I can on the rainy days.

I’m actually looking forward to it. I never really realized just how many stories I’ve written over the past 30 years or so. Not only that, but I feel pretty lucky that my wife has saved them all for me, carefully organized in binders.

So, What Are You Up To Today, GW?

Well, seeing as it’s so wet and gloomy outside this morning, I’ll be doing a bit more work here at my computer. If the weather clears up some this afternoon, I’ll head out to my old woodworking shop and start tidying it up. I had planned to do that yesterday, but as it often goes, that didn’t quite happen.

So, with that in mind, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has made for me. After that, I’ll see what the day holds. You know, even though I’ve got a plan, it always seems like there’s a little twist in store—usually something she has in mind for me to do.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Talkin’ Truth Over Toast on April 18/2025

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Good Morning Folks! My stories are seasoned with coffee, sap and sawdust—makes ‘em sturdier.

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Friday, April 18, 2025

Expect periods of rain throughout the day, accompanied by breezy conditions in the morning.​

  • High: 59°F (15°C)
  • Low: 48°F (9°C)​

Saturday, April 19, 2025

A thick cloud cover is anticipated, with temperatures dropping significantly.​

  • High: 51°F (11°C)
  • Low: 27°F (-3°C)​

Highway 522 has seen a bit more traffic over the past few days, and I suspect it’s folks gearing up for the Easter long weekend. One spot that’s been hopping more than the Easter Bunny in our area is the LCBO.—seems a lot of folks are making sure their “spiritual” needs are met ahead of time.

On another note: Yesterday, my wife and I got the firewood re-piled—the stack that had toppled over during the winter. It took us about three hours, give or take. After that, we enjoyed a hot cocoa, relaxed for a spell, then had some lunch. Once we got our second wind, we headed back outside. The weather was just too nice to waste, and we managed to get most of our flower gardens cleaned up.

We like to get them done before a good rain, and with showers expected today, the timing couldn’t have been better. A clean bed helps the rain soak in and gives the flowers a fresh start. Plus, it’s easier to avoid snapping off new sprouts. Like our tulips, that are starting to show themselves.

You know, after a lifetime of farming, living close to the land and of course other things, I’ve come to see it plain and simple, that everything’s got its season, its own rhythm. You can’t rush it, and you sure can’t fight it. But if you pay attention and work alongside it, well, nature’s got a way of paying you back for your efforts. That’s just how it works, and it has helped me more times than not, over the years.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m thinkin’ I might tackle a bit of cleanup in my woodworking shop. With everything we’ve been doing around the place lately, it’s turned into one heck of a mess—can hardly find my bench, let alone my tools. Then, if the old body’s willing, I might even see about putting up some shelves in one of our side buildings. That’s where we’re planning to store all the tools and odds and ends we’re getting ready to part with at our big spring garage sale coming up in a few weeks.

It’s shaping up to be a good one, too—something for everyone and every age. If you can’t find a treasure in this sale, you likely weren’t lookin’ hard enough.

So with that, it’s time for breakfast once again. This morning, it’s an egg on an English muffin—thanks to my lovely wife—and you can’t beat that to start the day. After that, we’ll settle in with our regular hot cocoa and a good chat, just like we do every morning.

Then, well, we’ll see where the day leads. You can make all the plans you want, but in the end, life’s got its own ideas about how things should unfold. The thing is, you never truly know what a day’s going to bring, but…, that’s what makes it interesting. Sometimes the best moments come when you least expect them, and well, sometimes not.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Country Has a Way of Teaching You on April 17/2025

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Good Morning, Folks! I’ve found that positive thoughts are a lot like planting seeds—give ’em time, tend ’em right, and they’ll bloom when you least expect it.

She’s one fine-lookin’ morning here in Cottage Country. The sun’s finally got some heat to it, not just sittin’ up there for show. Feels good on the face. That kind of warmth makes a body think—energy’s not just in wires, it’s in the land, the trees, and us folks too.

Weather Forecast For Port Loring, Ontario, Canada:

Thursday, April 17
It’s a fine-lookin’ spring day out there. High around 51°F (10°C) and dropping to 35°F (2°C) tonight. A bit of cloud now and then, but the sun’s still showin’ up for work. No rain in sight, so it’s a good one for standin’ by a fence post, taking in what Nature has to offer.


Friday, April 18
Well, Friday’s bringin’ the rain with it. High around 57°F (14°C), low near 45°F (7°C). Looks like we’ll get about half an inch (13 mm) of rain through the day. Might be a good excuse to stay indoors, catch up on things other than outside work, and let the rain do the talking for a while.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making travelling mighty fine.

Yesterday, my lovely wife and I made the trip to the big city of North Bay to pick up some supplies. It turned out to be a great day—one of those that leaves you feelin’ good all over. We got what we needed, had lunch in the car, and spent some time watchin’ folks go by. Now, I’ll admit it—people-watching’ in the city can sometimes be a bit nosy, but who are we kiddin’? In small towns, it’s practically a pastime. We all do it, even if we won’t admit it out loud.

After that, we took the scenic route home—well, the only route we’ve got, since where we live, there’s just one way in and one way out. But it’s always a surprise, seeing something new every time we make the trip. Funny how the same road can offer up a new view each time.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well… first thing this morning, my wife and I are going to re-pile some firewood that fell over yesterday. It was under our lean-to, but the frost heaved it up over winter and, with the ground settling, it made a mess of the first row. We’ll get that fixed up here this morning, while the ground’s still a bit hard—saves us from walking in the mud. After that, we’ll get back to fixing up one of our side sheds and start putting things in it for our big spring sale in a few weeks. We’ve got a few other things planned too, but we’ll see how we feel after all that. Might need a bit of a rest.

With that I am off once again for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then head on outdoors, after our hot cocoa of course.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

A Small Note from the North on April 20/2025

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Good Morning! A slow start in the country still beats a fast pace in the city.

It’s a bit on the cool side this morning here in cottage country, and I have to admit, I’m not entirely thrilled with what I’m seeing outside my window. I won’t say exactly what it is—but let’s just say I’m not putting my snow shovel away anytime soon.

Weather Forecast Port Loring Ontario Canada:

Today – Tuesday, April 15th
Woke up to a cool one, sitting around 37°F (3°C), and it hasn’t warmed up much since. The kind of morning where the coffee needs to be extra strong. Rain’s been falling off and on, but now it’s got that look—y’know, where the flakes start to sneak in like they’re testing the waters. We might see somewhere between half an inch to just over an inch (1 to 3 cm) of the white stuff before day’s end. Winds are starting to pick up too, so keep the wood stove going if you’ve got one. I lit our wood furnace back up this morning. High of 40°F (5°C), low dropping to 25°F (-4°C) tonight.

Tomorrow – Wednesday, April 16th
Might be waking up to a dusting—just enough to make you second-guess putting those boots away. But the skies should clear up some, maybe even a peek of sunshine if we’re lucky. Still on the chilly side though, with a high around 42°F (5°C) and dropping to 22°F (-5°C) once the sun tucks in for the night.

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet these days, which isn’t all that surprising—and it’s carrying a bit of a wet shine to it this morning. So far, the snow isn’t sticking, but that could change as the day rolls on. Let’s hope it doesn’t. I think we’ve all had just about enough of Old Man Winter for one year.

On a different note, I spent the better part of yesterday right here at my desk, working away on the ol’ keyboard. Got five stories written, which made for a mighty fine writing day. The words just poured out, smooth and steady—like sap running on a warm spring morning. I sure love when that happens. I like to get ahead while the weather’s still dreary, ’cause once it warms up, I’d rather be out soaking up the sunshine than cooped up inside staring at a screen.

So, what am I up to today?

Well, seeing as the weather isn’t exactly inviting, I figure I’ll spend a bit more time writing up some stories. I’ve got to send in my weekly pieces to the folks I write for, which I’ll get to here in a minute. After that, I’ll sit down and enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. Then… well, I think a hot cup of cocoa is in order, followed by a nice chat with her.

She’s been busy as all get out for these past few months, sorting through household items for the big sale we’ve got coming up in a few weeks. That woman of mine never slows down, lucky to have her.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Today in Cottage Country: April 14, 2025, Through My Eyes

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Good Morning! When the wood stove is burning nicely and the coffee’s strong, even Mondays feel like old friends.

Weather Outlook for Port Loring, Ontario

Monday, April 14
A grey and damp day ahead. Light rain through the morning will carry on in patches through the afternoon, with the odd break here and there. Temperatures will rise to a high of 54°F (12°C) and settle down tonight to about 35°F (1°C). A good day to stay close to the fire, maybe catch up on a bit of work in the shop or house.

Tuesday, April 15
Tuesday brings some cooler weather with it, and a mix of rain and snow showers moving through. We could see snow amounts anywhere from 0.4 to 1.2 inches (1–3 cm), especially by late morning into the afternoon. Winds will pick up a bit, making it feel colder than the thermometer says. Daytime highs will hover near 40°F (4°C) and drop to 25°F (-4°C) by the time night rolls in. Might be another good day to keep the kettle warm and the wool socks close.

Highway 522 is wet this morning and pretty quiet, with hardly a car in sight. But then again, it is still early. Yesterday was a different story, with plenty of folks out and about. In any case, it is what it is—and best to enjoy the peace while it lasts. It won’t be long before folks start rolling in to open up their cottages, along with day-trippers wandering through, looking for things to see and do.

On another note, my wife and I spent most of the yesterday working outside. We got a lot done, though there’s still plenty left to tackle. But with the rain today, it looks like outdoor chores will be taking a back seat for now.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, like I mentioned earlier, there’s not much I can do outside with the rain coming down. But we’ve still got plenty to keep us busy indoors—mostly sorting through more things we’re planning to put out for sale next month. It’s shaping up to be one heck of a sale, let me tell ya—something for everyone, no matter the age or whether you’re a man or a woman.

And along with that on our list of things to get done, I just might sit myself down and write up another story or two. We’ll see how the day unfolds. Truth be told, my wife and I have a habit of starting out doing one thing and somehow ending up doing something completely different. No rhyme or reason around this house, that’s for sure.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared, and then I’ll let the day unfold as it will. It might not be the finest day weather-wise, but every new day holds possibilities—it all depends on what you make of it.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Coffee, Country, and Common Sense on April 13/2025

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Good Morning! If your porch chair’s got more stories than the news, you’re sittin’ in the right spot.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast
Sunday, April 13 – Monday, April 14, 2025

Today – Sunday, April 13
It’s a sunny start to the day here in Port Loring. Expect a high around 60°F (16°C) this afternoon. Winds will be light from the southwest, around 10 km/h. It’s a good day to get outside, maybe clean up the yard or go for a walk.

Tonight
Clear skies will stick around, with the temperature dropping to about 41°F (5°C) overnight. A cool but calm night.

Tomorrow – Monday, April 14
Monday will be much the same. A mix of sun and a few clouds, with a high near 63°F (17°C). Winds will be a bit stronger from the west at about 15 km/h. No rain expected, so it should be another decent day to be out and about.


Highway 522 is bare and dry this Sunday morning, making for good traveling for those heading to the larger towns for supplies.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I spent the morning outside cleaning out one of our side buildings. After lunch, I made a run to the dump, then settled in to watch the Masters Golf Tournament.

It was a great day of golf. Rory McIlroy lit up the course with a historic start—six straight holes of three or better, including two eagles and three birdies. He finished the third round with a 6-under 66, putting him at 12-under for the tournament and giving him a two-shot lead heading into today’s final round.

Right behind him is Bryson DeChambeau at 10-under, and not far off is our own Canadian, Corey Conner’s, sitting in third at 8-under. He’s been steady all week, and it sure would be something to see him make a strong run today. Ludvig Åberg and Patrick Reed are tied at 6-under going into the final round.

The final round of the Masters gets underway today around 9:40 a.m. Eastern, with the leaders teeing off a little later in the morning. You can catch the live coverage on CBS from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and it’s also available for streaming if you’ve got access to that.

As for the weather down in Augusta, Georgia, it’s looking just about perfect—sunny skies, a high around 68°F (20°C), light winds, and no rain in sight. Should make for a great day of golf.

I’m really looking forward to watching how it all plays out. Here’s hoping Conner’s keeps the Canadian flag flying high!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, this morning I’m planning to fix up one wall on one of our outbuildings—it’s seen better days. Once that’s done, I’ll start getting the inside organized so we can figure out where to place all the shop items we’re planning to sell or get rid of next month. That’ll likely keep me busy for most of the morning. After that, I’ll be settling in to watch the final round of the Masters—wouldn’t want to miss that.

So with that, I’m off once again to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store—besides what I’ve already planned. A new day means a new start, and after that… who really knows?

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

What I Know, What I’ve Seen on April 12/2025

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Good Morning! I remember one time my Dad and I were chatting out by our barn. He went on to say: “George, you see that old barn? She’s been leanin’ into the wind for longer than either of us can remember—but she’s still standin’. That’s how you get old proper. You don’t fight every storm. Oh, life’s going to take a piece of you now and then—but don’t let it take more than it needs to.”

It’s a sunny morning wakin’ up here in the north, which is sure nice to see—even if there’s still a bit of a chill in the air. But give it an hour or so, and I figure things’ll start to warm up just fine.

Port Loring Weather Forecast

Today – Saturday, April 12, 2025:
Plenty of sunshine on the way.
High of 54°F (12°C), low near 28°F (-2°C).

Tomorrow – Sunday, April 13, 2025:
Clouds start rollin’ in later on.
High around 58°F (14°C), low about 39°F (4°C).

On another note, yesterday my wife and I once again worked the morning away and a good part of the afternoon, carryin’ things out to the old woodworking shop for our spring sale. I’ve gotta tell ya, folks—I never would’ve dreamt we had that much stuff tucked away. Simply amazin’.

Then, come afternoon, we settled in to watch the Masters Golf Tournament down in Augusta, Georgia. It was a great day all around.


Masters Golf Tournament – Second Round Highlights

After two rounds at Augusta, the leaderboard is shaping up for an exciting weekend:

  • Justin Rose leads the pack at 8-under-par after rounds of 65 and 71.
  • Bryson DeChambeau is just one stroke behind at 7-under, following rounds of 69 and 68.
  • Tied for third at 6-under are Rory McIlroy and Corey Conner’s, both with impressive performances.

Our very own Corey Conner’s from Canada shot a solid 70 in the second round, bringing his total to 138 (-6). A highlight of his day was nearly holing out with an incredible approach on No. 11.

The weather in Augusta today will be mostly sunny, with less than 30% cloud coverage throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 45°F (7°C). Humidity levels will range from 79% in the early morning to 36% by mid-afternoon, with a light breeze and no chance of rain.

The third round of the Masters Tournament is scheduled to begin at 9:50 a.m. Eastern Time (6:50 a.m. Pacific Time).

In Canada, you can watch the Masters live on TSN and CTV. Coverage for the third round begins at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (11 a.m. Pacific Time) on TSN3, TSN4, and CTV.

Enjoy the tournament!

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. After that, it’s time to get to work—I’ve got more cleaning up to do in the outbuilding by my shop. Once that’s cleared out, I’ll have more room for more stuff for the sale.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

What Life Taught Me While I Wasn’t Looking on April 11/2025

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Good Morning! When the coffeepot rattles on our old stove, you know it’s going to be a talkative day around here.

Well, it’s not as cold as it was yesterday, but you can still feel that bite in our northern air. And it’s still a might cold to do much front porch sittin’.

Now, here’s your weather for today and tomorrow in Port Loring, Ontario:

Today, April 11: A bit cloudy this morning, but it’ll clear up some as the day goes on. High of 47°F (8°C), Low of 28°F (-2°C).

Tomorrow, April 12: A sunny day ahead with plenty of blue skies. High of 54°F (12°C), Low of 28°F (-2°C).

Perfect weather to get out and about, but still a good idea to bundle up!

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make traveling good.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I spent the morning getting things ready for our big spring sale. We’re planning to unload years’ worth of items we no longer use, so it’ll be a massive garage sale! It’s going to take place sometime next month, and we’ll keep you posted on the exact dates once we have them.

On top of that, everything in our gift shop will also be for sale at unbeatable prices, so it’s not just your typical garage sale. You’ll find some real gems! Make sure to jot it down so you don’t forget to drop by once I give you the dates.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today my wife and I will continue on as we did yesterday, at least in the morning. In the afternoon, just like yesterday, we’ll be tuning in to watch the Masters golf tournament. I have to say, so far, it’s been a great game! Even our very own Corey Conner’s was in second place. Sure would be nice to see him win it, but we still have a long way to go yet.

As the day wrapped up, here are the standings for the top three at the Masters 2025:

  1. Justin Rose – A fantastic 7-under 65 performance put him in the lead with a three-shot advantage.
  2. Scottie Scheffler – He held steady and made a strong run to stay within striking distance in second.
  3. Corey Conner’s – He was tied for fourth with a solid 68, still very much in the hunt.

One of the highlights of the day was Fred Couples. He’s getting up there in years, but he’s still out there doing what he does best. His eagle on the 15th hole was a thing of beauty, proving he still has the magic touch!

And let’s not forget about the course itself. It’s looking great! The greens are smooth, the fairways are in top shape, and the trees are just beautiful. The whole place is a perfect picture of spring.

With three more days to go, today, tomorrow, and Sunday, it’s shaping up to be an exciting finish. Can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!

So, with that, I’m off for breakfast that my little woman has ready for me. After we enjoy our hot cup of cocoa and have our regular morning chat, I’ll get to work.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Where the Road Ends, Stories Begin on April 10/2025

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Good Morning! My old friend Grey Wolf used to say: “George, the sky doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor, it gives the same sunrise to all who look up.”

Here’s the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Thursday, April 10, 2025:

  • High: 45°F (7°C)
  • Low: 20°F (-6°C)
  • Conditions: Expect plenty of sunshine to stretch across the sky, but don’t forget to bundle up—those cool northern winds will keep things brisk. Perfect weather for a morning walk with a hot cup of coffee in hand.

Friday, April 11, 2025:

  • High: 46°F (8°C)
  • Low: 28°F (-2°C)
  • Conditions: A mix of sunshine and some clouds, giving you just enough time to get out and enjoy the fresh air before things cool off again at night. It’s the kind of day that calls for layers and a good pair of boots for that stroll down a quiet country road.

Looks like it’ll be a couple of crisp, refreshing days. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to keep that jacket close—spring’s still finding its footing up here.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for good traveling. So, if anyone is in need of supplies, it should be a great day to head off to the big city.

On another note: Yesterday, with the weather so nice, my wife and I decided to head into the big city of North Bay to pick up a few things, like groceries. We got everything taken care of, had our lunch in the car, and picked up a Starbucks coffee for the road home. The weather couldn’t have been better, and on the way back, we stopped for a visit with some good friends. All in all, it was a great day.

So what are you up to today GW

Well, once it warms up a bit today, my wife and I are going to get to work on preparations for the big spring sale we’re planning. We’ve already completed much of the prep work, but there’s still plenty to do, which will keep us busy this morning. Afterward, we’ll settle in to watch The Masters golf tournament, which starts today. We never miss it. The beautiful flowers, lush greens, fairways, and trees always get us into the spring spirit.

So with that, I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then head outdoors, well after our cup of hot cocoa and our regular morning chat. Although, in saying that, it should be noted we chat all the time, and you know what? We are damn good at it, too.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Where Every Word Still Counts on April 9/2025

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Good Morning! As my old friend Grey Wold Used to say: A crow’s call at dawn doesn’t need explaining, and neither do most things, if you’re paying attention.

Well—she’s a cold one here in cottage country this morning. When I crawled out of bed, the thermometer was sittin’ at -0.94°F | -18.3°C. So much for all that global warming stuff folks keep carryin’ on about.

Far as I’m concerned, the earth’s just doin’ what it’s always done. It’s been warming up and cooling down since the beginning of time. Sure, we might be making a bit of a mess with the way we live now, but the big picture? That’s Mother Nature’s work, she runs the show, not us. All them fanatics hollering about the end of the world every time it snows or rains a bit too much, well, they need to take a breath and look back at history.

Port Loring Weather Forecast

Today: A cold one, with a bit of sun, some cloud, and maybe a flurry or two.
High: 35°F | 2°C
Low Tonight: 15°F | -9°C

Tomorrow: A bit milder, with a bit more sunshine.
High: 43°F | 6°C
Low: 24°F | -5°C

You might want to toss another log on the fire and keep that coffee close. She’s still got some bite in her, but the warmer days are comin’.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make for some good travelin’—whether you’re heading into town for supplies or just making the weekly run to the dump. Yep, it’s Dump Day here in our little corner of the world—one of the more prestigious events on the calendar if you ask a few of the locals.

Some folks treat it like a social outing… wave to a neighbor, maybe compare who’s got the better load in the back of the truck. And if you’re real lucky, you might even spot someone sneakin’ something back from the dump. “One man’s trash,” as they say.

So, if you’ve been holding off getting rid of that busted toaster or that old chair with only one leg left, now’s your chance. Roads are good, sky’s clear, and the garbage gods are smiling.

On another note, yesterday me and my wife managed to get our driveway and decks cleared of snow. I have to tell ya, there was a lot of it. In some spots we had a good foot and a half. It took me and my wife the whole morning to get things cleaned up.

And I gotta tell ya, we were more than ready for our lunch and a couple cups of coffee when we were finished. After that, our two Lazy Boy chairs sure felt good. Slept good too.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s a bit on the cool side, so I’m thinkin’ I’ll sit down and write up another story or two and keep the home fires going. After yesterday, this old body of mine could sure use a bit of a rest.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has put together for me. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store. It might be cold, but that sun shining like she is sure makes it look nice outside.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

From the Desk Where Stories Never Die on April 8/2025

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Good Morning! You know, the problem today isn’t a lack of knowledge, it’s an oversupply of nonsense.

Well, folks, old man winter has reappeared—at least in our neck of the woods.
Looking outside, I’d say we had a good foot, and in some places, closer to two feet, of fresh snow overnight. Just when we were getting ready to welcome spring proper, winter decided to show us it’s not quite done yet.

Weather Forecast – Port Loring, Ontario, Canada

Today (Tuesday, April 8):
Flurries in the morning tapering off as the day goes on. Skies will stay mostly cloudy, with a few sunny breaks possible this afternoon. Expect a high around 28°F (–2°C). Winds will be light, but enough to make it feel a touch colder. Total snowfall today is expected to stay under an inch (1 cm)—but we’ve already got plenty on the ground from before dawn.

Tonight:
Skies clear out, bringing a sharp drop in temperature. Low near 6°F (–14°C), with frost settling in wherever the wind hasn’t swept it clean. A good night to toss an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, April 9):
Mostly sunny, with a high of 34°F (1°C). Not a big warm-up, but enough to soften the snow on your boots by afternoon. Winds will stay light. Clear and cold again overnight, with lows dipping to around 17°F (–9°C).

So, if you’re headed outside, bundle up good, and keep that shovel handy.
Around here, winter doesn’t ask for permission before making itself at home, or so it seems lately.

Highway 522… well, it’s out there somewhere—
but you sure wouldn’t know it looking out the window this morning. It’s completely buried under a thick blanket of snow. You’d be hard-pressed to tell where the road ends and the fields begin. Travel’s not lookin’ too promising, I’ll tell ya that much.

It’s the kind of day when the smart ones stay put, maybe put on a fresh pot of coffee.

On another note:
Yesterday, with the weather bein’ what it was, my wife and I stayed put here at home. I spent most of the day tappin’ away at the keys, writing up a couple more stories. The words were flowin’ real nice, like sap on a warm spring day.

Meanwhile, my wife was busy as ever—tidyin’ up, cleanin’, and doin’ all the little things that keep a home runnin’ smooth. Let me tell ya, that woman of mine never stops.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, one thing’s for sure—there’s a mighty big pile of snow out there waitin’ for us. The decks and driveway are buried deep, and I suspect movin’ all that white stuff will keep us busy for most of the morning—maybe even into the afternoon. After that? Well, no-brainer there, as we’ll be more than ready to kick back and catch our breath.

But first things first, as right now I’m off to enjoy a plate of homemade waffles, courtesy of my lovely wife. She sure knows how to start the day off right. After that? We’ll see what the day brings.

Until the next time… keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Old Pages, New Perspectives on April 7/2025

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Good Morning! “You know, truth may be simple, but finding it these days is like looking for a needle in a haystack that keeps moving.”

It’s a cloudy morning here, waking up in our small community.

🌨️ Port Loring Weather – April 7 & 8, 2025

Today – Monday, April 7
We’re in for a snowy one.
Expect 6 to 12 inches of snow through the day, some of it heavy at times.
Winds are pickin’ up and blowin’ it around, so visibility could be poor.
It’s a chilly one, too — only getting up to about 37°F (3°C) during the day,
and tonight it’s droppin’ like a stone to around 8°F (-13°C).

Tomorrow – Tuesday, April 8
Still not much better. Snow and flurries hanging around in the morning.
Might see another 2 to 4 inches fall before it settles down.
High won’t get much above 28°F (-2°C),
and the low’s right down near 10°F (-12°C) again come nightfall.

No outside work yet — ground’s locked up tighter than a maple syrup barrel in January. Best to stay warm, maybe sip a mug of something hot, and let that ol’ snow do what it’s going to do.

Highway 522 is bare at the time of this post, but if we get what they say we are going to get, you might want to get your running around done early. “Better to be home wishin’ you’d gone out, than out wishin’ you were home.” A saying, Laura, the lady that raised me for a while, in my early years, used to say, when a storm was brewing.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I brought in a couple more wheelbarrow loads of firewood. With the cold settin’ in for the next few days and a storm threatening to roll through later today, I figured it was best to have a bit extra on hand — just in case.

That took up most of the morning, along with a few other odds and ends outside. The sun was out, and it felt good to get some fresh air while the weather was behaving.

In the afternoon, I sat down to write a story. Took me a bit longer than usual — the words just weren’t flowin’ the way I’d have liked. Some days are like that, no matter how long you’ve been at it. But I stuck with it, and in the end, it turned out pretty good. On a good day, I could’ve had it written up in half the time — but sometimes, a story’s gotta stew a little before it’s ready.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, earlier this morning I took some coals from my wood furnace to the old shop stove and got it goin’. Figured I’d try to get this old body of mine moving a bit and get a few things done out there later on. I’ve got a bit of a mess to clean up from what I was working on a couple of days ago — bits of wood here and there, tools sittin’ where I left ‘em, and the floor could use some sweeping.

It should be warming up in the shop nicely by the time I’ve had my breakfast. My lovely wife already has it made — smells real good too, I’ll be sittin’ down to it here in a minute or two.

A warm shop, a hot breakfast, and a few small jobs to tackle — sounds like a pretty decent start to the day if you ask me.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

Another Day, Another Quiet Start Here in the Pines on March 6/2025

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Good Morning! You know, I figure the problem with a lot of folks here in Canada these days, isn’t just a lack of knowledge… it’s that what little they do know is buried under a mountain of nonsense. And truth be told, a good chunk of that mountain’s been stacked up by the very folks who are supposed to be leading us—our politicians.

Port Loring, Ontario – Sunday, April 6, 2025

Well, here we are. .April’s on the calendar, but winter’s still clinging’ to the edges. As of this morning, Port Loring’s sitting at a brisk 34°F (1°C) under partly sunny skies. Here’s how the week’s looking if you’re planning your chores, travel, or just deciding whether or not to fire up the wood-stove again.


Forecast

Today – Sunday, April 6
High: 39°F (4°C) | Low: 25°F (-4°C)
A chilly day with low clouds hanging around. The sun might poke through now and then, but it won’t be bringing much warmth. A good day for shop work, or???

Monday, April 7
High: 36°F (2°C) | Low: 10°F (-12°C)
Heavy snow’s on the horizon and we can expect 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm). Also some colder weather will follow in behind it, so keep the shovel handy.

Tuesday, April 8
High: 28°F (-2°C) | Low: 8°F (-13°C)
Cloudy and very cold. The kind of cold that makes you hesitate at the door.

Wednesday, April 9
High: 37°F (3°C) | Low: 19°F (-7°C)
Mostly sunny but still well below normal. That sunshine’s more for show than warmth. So best bundle up and enjoy the light, but don’t leave your coat at home.

Thursday, April 10
High: 45°F (7°C) | Low: 24°F (-4°C)
Partly sunny and beginning to ease up. Might start to feel like spring is thinking about showing up, even if it’s still shy.

Friday, April 11
High: 50°F (10°C) | Low: 33°F (1°C)
Mostly sunny and milder–finally something close to seasonal. This will be the day to stretch your legs, maybe even sweep off the porch for good.

Saturday, April 12
High: 50°F (10°C) | Low: 32°F (0°C)
Bright sunshine and warming-up right where it should be.


April in Port Loring – A Bit of History

On average, Port Loring sees daytime highs near 50°F (10°C) and lows around 29°F (-2°C) for April. Precipitation’s a regular guest, with around 12 days bringing rain or snow, totaling close to 3.5 inches (87 mm). In other words–expect mud, a stubborn bit of snow, and enough chill to keep the garden covered just a little longer.


A Few Words of Wisdom

Best be dressing in layers this week, GW-style...long handles underneath, rain coat up top, and maybe keep a second pair of gloves in the truck. That snow on Monday won’t last forever, but it’s coming, and the cold behind it means you’ll feel it in your knuckles.

But again–by the end of the week, we’re heading into better weather, more sun, more warmth, and maybe the first real breath of spring.

On another note, the weather kept me indoors yesterday so I spent the better part of it here at my computer. The words came easy, and I ended up writing a couple more stories for the folks I send work to at Postmedia. Always gives me a warm feeling inside when an egg of an idea starts to crack open—but it never feels truly hatched until it’s been shared with the world.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, with the sun shining and me feeling not too bad-once it warms up a bit, I’m thinking I might head out and do a little work in my old woodworking shop. But for now, with the air still holding a bit of a chill, I’m staying put here at my computer. If I’m lucky, I might even manage to write up another story or two. We’ll just have to see how things pan out.

Truth be told, I never honestly know what I’m going to do from one day to the next. I make plans, but over the years, I’ve come to realize that plans are often made to be broken- and most times, that’s not such a bad thing.

And with that, I’m off to enjoy my morning breakfast—once again made by my lovely wife. After that, well, I’ll get to doing something-eventually. But whatever the day brings will just have to wait until we’ve had our regular morning chat over a hot cup of cocoa. Wouldn’t want to miss that for anything.

Truth is, a day without my sunshine—my lovely wife—just wouldn’t feel right. She brightens every morning in a way no sunrise ever could, and I wouldn’t trade that for all the plans in the world. Hmm you think that last remark might just get me a piece of cake to go with that cup of hot cocoa???

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

Notes Left Beside the Coffee Cup on March 5/2025

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Good morning. I’ve said it for years, and I’ll say it again… opinions are everywhere, but real wisdom? That’s getting mighty scarce these days, especially here in Canada.

Here’s how the weather’s shaping up for us today here in the North:

Today, Saturday, we’re expecting a mostly cloudy day with a few light showers now and then. The high will be around 44°F (7°C) and dipping to about 27°F (-3°C) overnight.

Tomorrow, Sunday, more clouds are on the way with a high near 39°F (4°C) and another nighttime low around 27°F (-3°C).

Oh and once again... I’ve always used Fahrenheit, and that’s the way it’s gonna stay. It’s what I grew up with, it’s what works, and it tells me what I need to know without any fuss. I honestly don’t care what political bunch, or government outfit decided Celsius was better, and it sure wasn’t done for folks like me. I’ve lived long enough to know you don’t toss out common sense just because someone with a title calls it progress. Thought I would toss that into the ring this morning for us old timers. Ha

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for a decent run if you’re headin’ to the big city for supplies. However, it might not stay that way all day though… as they’re calling’ for a bit of rain later on, so best not to dawdle if you’ve got things to do. And with spring setting in, there’s more critter movement than usual—especially deer, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the ditches and tree lines. One wrong move from them, and you’ve got more than the price of groceries to worry about.

On another note, my wife and I spent the whole day outside yesterday, working’ away like a couple of old Clydesdale Horses, getting things ready for our big spring sale. We managed to fix up a spot to start piling everything we’ve got for sale… which, at this point, is just about everything but the kitchen sink. Although, now that I think on it, we might have one of those kickin’ around too, if I dig deep enough. Either way, it was a productive day, and the kind that makes you sleep real good, and with your body letting’ you know it worked hard.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, today, since the weather’s not exactly playing nice, I’m planning on writing up another story or two. In between, I’ll probably sneak into the woodworking shop to break things up a bit and get the old body moving. As the saying goes, the older you get, the worse thing you can do is sit too long. You let yourself get stiff, and next thing you know, it’s harder to get up, than it was to sit down. So, a little work, a little writing, it keeps the gears turning and the joints from rustin’.

Oh and once again before I go: It’s high time we stopped taking’ any taxes out of the working man’s paycheck. People are barely getting by as it is, and every time that check comes in, it’s like a chunk’s already been taken before they’ve even had a chance to see it. These politicians, they hide behind things like this, thinking folks won’t notice. Well, we do. It’s about time they stop skimming off the top and let the people keep what they earn. They’ve got their cushy jobs and fancy suits… how much more do they need?

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, once again made by my lovely wife. Hmm, I think I’ll have an extra cup of hot cocoa this morning, along with our regular morning chat, of course.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

Stories That Haven’t Lost Their Shine on April 4/2025

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Good Morning! You know a Wise Man Once Said, “‘The Truth Will Set You Free’—But First, It’ll Probably Annoy You.”

For a change, we’re all waking up to sunshine here in the north. The day starts off bright with temperatures around 34°F (1°C). As we move into the afternoon, expect partly sunny skies with the mercury climbing to a high of 48°F (9°C). As night falls, temperatures will dip to a low of 35°F (2°C).​

Come Saturday, the skies will turn cloudy, bringing along a couple of showers. The daytime high will be around 46°F (8°C), so keep your rain gear handy if you’re planning to be outdoors. By night, temperatures will drop to a chilly 28°F (-2°C), so best to stoke the fire and keep warm.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, and let’s hope it stays that way. Things have been quiet, which is about right for this time of year. But it won’t be long before the cottagers start rolling in to open up their places for the summer. After that, the boats will start showing up on the lakes and rivers, and not long after that, the tourists will be arriving.

I’ve got a hunch this year might be a good one for tourism. The price of gas is lower than it’s been in quite a few years, and that alone could encourage folks to hit the road a little more. That’ll put a smile on the faces of the local business owners, that’s for sure.

But… like always, we’ll just have to wait and see how it all pans out. The human mind? Well, it works in mysterious ways now and then.

On another note, I did manage to get a bit of work done outside yesterday. With my wife’s help, we hauled in a few more wheelbarrow loads of firewood for the wood furnace. Figured we might as well save on oil, especially with what it costs to fill that tank these days. We topped ours up, and it wasn’t even empty, yet the bill came to $1,040.00.

You know, years ago, that kind of money could’ve bought a brand-new truck. It’s hard to wrap your head around how far things have drifted.

And the part that really gets me is this—we’ve got the resources right here in our own country. Oil, gas, you name it. Yet we’re still being gouged like we’re importing it from halfway around the world. You’d think they’d cut the locals a bit of slack. But no, our own companies seem more interested in lining their pockets than looking out for the folks who keep this country running.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, today… seeing as things are warming up and the sun is shining, I figure it might be a good one to tackle some more outside chores. We’ve got that big spring sale coming up in a month or so, and there’s still a pile of things that need doing. Should keep us out of trouble for most of the day… or at least until I run out of steam.

Mind you, if today turns out anything like yesterday with us hauling in firewood, I might be needing a nap by noon. Funny how that works, as back in the day, I could work circles around the clock. Now however, I bend down to tie my boots and wonder if that counts as stretching.

And these so-called “golden years”… I often wonder who came up with that phrase. Must’ve been one of those politicians… likely one who’s never lifted anything heavier than a coffee cup and a campaign promise.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and we will then see what the day has in store.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive! GW