Category Archives: Weather

The Old Typewriter Still Talks on April 3/2025

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Good Morning! With what’s happening here in Canada, the older I get, the more I understand why my Grandfather just sat and shook his head.

Here’s what’s on the way for Port Loring:

Today: Well she’s foggy this morning here in the North, a cool start with that damp fog hanging around, but as the day rolls on, the sun will make an appearance. We will also see a bit of a breeze, but nothing too wild. Highs will reach around 45°F (7°C).

Tonight: Partly cloudy and chilly, dropping to 25°F (-4°C). If you’re out late, better have a warm jacket.

Tomorrow: A touch warmer, with some sunshine and a light breeze. Highs around 49°F (10°C), and tomorrow night will be a little milder at 34°F (1°C).

Spring’s still waking up folks, but at least we’re headed in the right direction. Once that fog clears, might be a good afternoon to get outside for a bit.

Highway 522 is bare but wet this morning, so if you’re heading to the big city, the roads shouldn’t give you too much trouble… just watch out for the odd puddle trying to swallow your tires. They come up on ya fast. As for us, well, we’ve got pretty much everything we need right here, so I don’t figure we’ll be venturing too far. Hell no sense running to town just to stare at things we don’t need. Besides, the coffee’s hot, the fire’s warm, and the world ain’t going anywhere.

The Truth: You ever stop and think about how much of your paycheck ends up in the government’s hands? It’s like they’ve got their mitts in your pocket before you even get to take a good breath! They don’t work for it, don’t earn it, and yet, somehow, they think it’s theirs to take.

It’s like you’re out there busting your back in the fields, hauling the load, and then the government shows up and says, “We’ll take half of your paycheck… thanks for the hard work!” They didn’t lift a finger to earn it, but somehow, it’s their money. We are already paying enough taxes, without them grabbing half of what we earn.

They didn’t sweat it, they didn’t break their backs for it…so why in hell should they take it? Remove the damn taxes on the working mans paycheck, do that and you will see this country flourish.

Yesterday, I spent the day working away in front of my computer…well, it’s not exactly old anymore, thanks to my son Karl, who fixed me up with a new one, not a cheap one mind ya but a darn good one. Any way, I did manage to get two good stories written, stories that I’m sure will catch someone’s attention when they get published in the coming days. My writing covers all kinds of things, life in general, my experiences, and my views on everything from the little things to the big stuff. You never really know what I’ll write about next, and that’s part of what people seem to enjoy.

I’ve been writing for newspapers for over thirty years now, including one of the largest in Canada, and I can tell ya, I’m just as excited to see my stories published today as I was back then. And the feedback I get… whether it’s phone calls, emails, or folks stopping by, really means a lot. What it does is: It lets me know that what I’m doing is connecting with folks, and I’m grateful for every bit of it. Your support and kind words keep me going, and I truly appreciate it.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, my wife and I were planning to get a start on some outside work today, moving things around for our big spring sale, but right now the weather’s not exactly cooperating. Looks like that’ll have to wait. For now, I suppose I’ll stick around here at my computer. If the words decide to flow, I might crank out another story. But if the sun decides to show up, I’ll set the writing aside and head out to tackle a few things in my old woodworking shop.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman’s made for me. After that, we’ll enjoy a warm cup of cocoa together and have our usual morning chat. Pretty hard life, huh?

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

Lines from a Life Well-Lived on April 2/2025

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Good Morning! You know…. It’s funny how the truth is always there, but folks prefer the stories they make up instead.

She sure is a fine-looking morning up here in the north, But don’t let her good looks fool you, as she’s got a mean streak coming later today. They’re calling for some nasty weather rolling in, with a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain set to make life interesting. By tonight, the roads might turn into a skating rink.

Forecast Us Here in The North

Today (Wednesday, April 2):

High: 35°F (2°C)​

Conditions: Cloudy and breezy with periods of snow, sleet, and freezing rain developing this afternoon. Accumulations of 1-3 cm are possible, making untreated roads slippery.​

Tonight:

Low: 29°F (-2°C)​
Conditions: Continued precipitation with freezing rain transitioning to drizzle or light rain as temperatures rise overnight.​

Tomorrow (Thursday, April 3):

High: 50°F (10°C)​
Low: 27°F (-3°C)​

Conditions: Breezy and milder. Morning low clouds will give way to sunshine and areas of high clouds later in the day.

So all an all, we’ve got some not-so-good news weather-wise today, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain rolling in, but the good news is that tomorrow’s looking a lot better! Temperatures are warming up, and we might even see a little sunshine. Kinda like me… handsome as all get-out, a little rough around the edges, but still kicking, and I warm up just fine with a little sunshine too. Ha!

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, so traveling should be pretty good for now. But don’t let that fool you, keep an eye on what’s coming, and don’t wander too far from home. Reason being with the weather they’re calling for, things could turn tricky on the roads before too long.

So, yesterday, with the weather being pretty good and lots of sunshine, my wife and I decided to head into the big city of North Bay to pick up a few supplies. All in all, it was a great day. We had a meal out, did our shopping, grabbed a coffee, and enjoyed nature, and each other’s company. What could be better than that? Not much in my books… unless, of course, someone else was doing the shopping for us and paying for the meal too. Ha!

So What Are You Up To Today GW?

Well, today being my birthday—yep, this old timer made it to another one, so I’m thinking I’ll take it easy after yesterday’s trip to town. It seems I need a little time to wind down the next day for some reason. Not sure why that is, but at any rate, I think I’ll write up a story or two for my columns this morning, and if the weather holds out, I might make a dump run this afternoon. We’ll see how that works out.

Now, that’s the plan, but one never knows what a day might bring. Heck, at my age, I’m just happy I made it through another year without breaking anything important. And I’m not talking about my car! Ha! So here’s to another trip around the sun….let’s see if I can still make it to the next one without needing a map to find my way!

With that, I’m off for my breakfast, which, as always, my lovely wife has made for me. And after that, well, we’ll see what mischief I can get into… at least, that’s what my wife says. She knows me too well! Ha!

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

From One Story to the Next on April 1/2025

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Good Morning! If there is one thing I have learned in this old life of mine: Is… if the truth had legs, it wouldn’t have to run so hard these days. Might have to think on that a spell.

Well, we’re finally seeing some sunshine here in the north this morning. Looks nice, but it sure ain’t holding much heat.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

Today: Mostly sunny, but still on the chilly side. High of 31°F (0°C). Good day for getting some outdoor chores done if you bundle up.

Tonight: Clear early, then clouds moving in. Low of 17°F (-8°C). Gonna be a crisp one, so best throw an extra log on the fire.

Wednesday: Cloudy, breezy, and cold with snow, sleet, and freezing rain moving in by the afternoon. Could see 1-3 inches (3-8 cm) of snow and ice before it’s all said and done. High of 33°F (1°C), Low of 29°F (-2°C).

Weather Warning: Freezing rain expected midweek with ice accretion of 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm). Roads, driveways, and walkways will be slick. Wind gusts could get up up to 30-45 mph (50-70 km/h) which could bring down some tree branches. And it should be noted that some areas could see up to 4 inches (10 cm) of snow before the ice sets in. If all this does occur, it would be in your best interest to be prepared and take it slow if you have to be out and about.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making it a good time to head to town if you’re in need of supplies. If you’ve been putting off that trip, now’s your chance to get ‘er done because tomorrow’s weather ain’t looking too friendly.

But hey, we live in the north and weather’s just part of the deal. One day, it’s sunshine and smooth sailing, the next, you’re chipping ice off the truck door with a screwdriver. So it’s best to be ready for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw our way!

On another note, I spent the day yesterday in my old woodworking shop and got those birdhouses all built. I have to say, they turned out real nice.

Around here, birds don’t waste any time when fresh housing pops up. The moment I get them hung, there’ll be plenty of curious tenants checking things out, bluebirds claiming the best spots, sparrows sneaking in where they can, and wrens acting like they own the place, and if history repeats itself, I’ll probably have a few arguing over property lines before the day’s out. But once they settle in, I imagine the neighborhood will be chirping with approval.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, first thing on the list today is getting the old wood-stove going in my shop. I didn’t keep it burning last night, so it’s colder in there than a cast-iron frying pan left out on the porch. It won’t take long to warm up though, as a few good chunks of dry wood and she’ll be crackling in no time.

After that, I suppose I should tackle the mess. Right now, the place looks like a few beavers threw a party and forgot to clean up after themselves. Shavings piled up, sawdust everywhere, but it’s just the way a real woodworking shop ought to be. Any way, I suppose I will do a little tidying, at least enough so I don’t trip over things.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me and will then see what the rest of the day has in store. So far so good.

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

Lessons in Ink and Time on March 31/2025

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Good Morning! Over the years I have found that: The trouble with common sense is, it ain’t so common anymore.

It’s a damp, cloudy morning here in Northern Ontario, but I can’t say I’m complaining. The weatherman did have folks bracing for the worst, but all that fuss didn’t amount to much. Oh we did have a bit of snow, but it was barely worth a mention.

Weather for us today:

Well, she’s shaping up to be a damp and chilly one here in Port Loring, with a mix of snow and rain this morning, but not much to fuss over. This afternoon looks to stay cloudy, with a high around 36°F (2°C). That said, if we’re lucky, we might just get a sneak peek of sunshine… no promises though.

Tonight, temperatures take a nosedive down to 12°F (-11°C), so it might be a good idea to keep that extra blanket on your bed.

Tomorrow, the sun plans to peek out, but don’t expect much warmth. Highs will only reach 31°F (-1°C), with a low of 18°F (-8°C).

And for those who prefer Celsius, well, I’ll keep tossing in the numbers… but I still say Fahrenheit makes more sense. When it’s 32°F, you know things are freezing—plain and simple. 0°C? Sounds like someone just ran out of numbers. And let’s be honest, Celsius has a way of making things sound worse than they are. -10°C? -20°C?

Highway 522’s wet but bare this morning, so traveling shouldn’t be too bad, just keep an eye out, reason being if the wind switches to the north, we might see some slippery spots popping up here and there. Best to take it easy if you’re heading out; don’t need anyone ending up in the ditch. Stay safe, folks!

On another note, yesterday I wrapped up another project for my lovely wife and then got busy cutting out four rustic birdhouses. Took most of the day, and by the time I was done, I was ready to hang up a sign that said “closed for business.” But a productive day is a good day as it keeps the hands busy and the mind sharp. And as as any seasoned woodworker will tell you, it’s not just about the finished project. It’s about the sawdust in your hair, the ache in your back, and the satisfaction of knowing you built something with your own two hands…even if it takes you longer than it used to.

So what’s on the agenda today, GW?

Well, first off, I’ll be bringing in some more firewood for the stove, then probably clean up the shop a bit. It’s a bit of a mess right now with shavings all over, and dust piling up like it’s settling in for the long haul. But a messy shop? That’s a sign of work being done, in my book.

I see these fancy, spotless shops with all that shiny new equipment, and I can’t help but wonder if they’re actually making anything in there. I guess it’s nice to look at, but my old tools do the job, just as well as any of that high-tech stuff. And as far as I’m concerned, a shop without a little sawdust or shavings on the floor just ain’t a woodworking shop.

Once I get things cleaned up, I’ll get to putting those birdhouses together that I cut out yesterday. Maybe I could teach the birds how to put ‘em together themselves—seems like IKEA’s got people fooled, paying top dollar for stuff they have to assemble themselves. Nah, I’ll stick to the way I’ve always done it, as a project’s not finished ‘til it’s finished.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me—a nice egg on an English muffin with some melted cheddar cheese over it. Should be mighty tasty and keep me going till lunch.

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

The Weathered Writer’s Notebook on March 30/2025

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It’s a cloudy morning here in the north. We are also getting some freezing rain thrown in for good measure.

Weather for Port Loring, Ontario

Today (Sunday, March 30)
We’re looking’ at a mix of ice and snow, with accumulation around ¾ to 1½ inches (2-4 cm) before the day’s done. Roads will be slicker than a greased pole, so if you can stay put, that’d be the smart move. High of 37°F (3°C).

Tonight
Freezing rain’s sticking’ around, building up even more ice on everything in sight. Low of 32°F (0°C).

Tomorrow (Monday, March 31)
Not quite as cold, but still plenty of clouds. Rain and a possible thunderstorm in the morning, followed by drizzle later on. High of 43°F (6°C). But by nightfall, the mercury takes a nosedive—Low of 14°F (-10°C).

⚠️ Freezing Rain Warning
A nasty ice storm is setting’ in and expected to last through early Monday morning. Ice build-up could reach between ⅜ to ¾ of an inch (10-20 mm)—that’s enough to snap branches and take down power lines. Winds could gust up to 50 km/h (30 mph), making’ things even worse.

Highway 522’s got a bit of ice here and there, but truth be told, it’s just the beginning. With what’s headed our way, it’s best to stay put and let Mother Nature do her thing. Today’s shaping up to be a messy one, and if you don’t have to be out, you’re better off watching it all unfold from the comfort of home—preferably with a hot coffee in hand.

On another note, yesterday was a full day’s work. Spent most of the morning moving snow, which kept us busy till lunchtime. After a good meal and a bit of rest, I headed back to the woodworking shop and put the finishing touches on my wife’s project. Turned out real nice. I’ll snap a picture of it later on.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, with today being so wet and icy, I figure it’s a good time to finally get started on a couple of birdhouses I’ve been meaning to make for a while. Haven’t been feeling the best these past few days, so maybe keeping my hands busy will take my mind off things. Might need to take a break here and there—we’ll see how it goes.

It’s downright slippery out there, that’s for sure. Had to throw some salt down just to make it off the porch earlier, and by the looks of it, things are only going to get icier as the day goes on.

So, with that, I’m off to enjoy my breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. Nothing like a home-cooked meal to start the day off right. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store.

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

Morning After the Storm: Snowdrifts and Coffee Tales On March 29/2025

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Well folks, looks like winter’s still got a say in things. Woke up to 23°F (-5°C) this morning, and the day ain’t looking’ much warmer. We’ll see a high around 36°F (2°C), but don’t let that fool ya, them clouds are sticking’ around, and there’s a chance of flurries now and then.

Tonight, temps will drop to about 27°F (-3°C), and come tomorrow, things get real interesting. What we’re looking’ at is a mix of ice and rain, and if it gets bad enough, we could see some power outages along with some mighty slick roads. High though will be around 41°F (5°C), but that won’t mean much, if everything’s coated in ice.

Might be a good day to stay close to the wood-stove and let spring know we’re still waiting.

Highway 522’s got its fair share of snow and a few slick spots this morning, and with what’s rolling in, it ain’t likely to get any better. If it were me, I’d be staying put as there’s always another day to get things done, and no sense getting yourself in trouble, just to run errands that can wait. Best to stoke the fire, pour another cup of coffee, Which is exactly what my wife and I will be doing here shortly.

On another note yesterday, I spent the day working on something special for Ruth’s art studio. She’s been painting since she was young, teaching herself and selling thousands of her paintings over the years. One thing she’s always wanted is a proper place to store her canvases, but they don’t make what she needs.

So… she drew up her own design, and I got all the pieces cut out. Now, I just need to assemble it, but first, we’ll have to clear some snow to get to the shop so I can finish it up. It’s coming along, and I’m looking forward to getting it done for her.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast and will then get to moving some snow, that is if my old body will let it all happen. One has to take things a bit a time these days.

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

Country Life & Old-Time Thoughts on March 28/2025

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The box in the picture isn’t like I am going to make, will post a picture of what my wife designed an I made once finished.

The roll around box in the picture isn't exactly what I am really going to make. I will add a picture of it on my blog when all said and done.

Good Morning! As my old Dad used to say: “George, life’s like fixing a tractor… lots of grit, grease, and trying not to lose your temper.”

Well, folks, winter ain’t done with us yet. And if you were hoping’ for sunshine and warm breezes, best keep that shovel handy. Here’s what’s ‘rolling’ in for Port Loring weather wise.

Today (Friday, March 28, 2025)

Cloudy with snow moving in this afternoon—0.4 to 1.2 inches (1 to 3 cm). Could be a bit more. High 31°F (-1°C).

Tonight

More snow, some ice pellets, and a chance of freezing rain. Roads will be slick. Low 25°F (-4°C).

Tomorrow (Saturday, March 29, 2025)

Morning flurries, then just cold and gray. High 34°F (1°C).

Winter Weather Warning Is in Affect

We could see 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) of snow and ice pellets, with a risk of freezing rain. Travel could be tricky. If you don’t need to be out, best stay put. Another storm might roll in Sunday, depends which way it tracks.

Might be a good day to keep the fire stoked and enjoy a hot drink. If you do have to head out, drive careful.

Highway 522 is bare and dry at the moment, but that may change if the expected bad weather moves into our area later.

On another note, since yesterday was a pretty nice day, my wife gave me a hand, and we wheeled in some more firewood, as we were getting a bit low. I’m pretty sure we have enough now to last until the warm weather moves in—or at least, I hope so.

After that, I filled up our bird feeders, as we sure do enjoy watching them throughout the day. Then, I settled in and wrote up a couple more stories for my newspaper columns. All in all, it was a busy day, but a good one.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, I got my old shop stove perking away earlier this morning, so after breakfast, I’m going to make my wife a rolling storage box—well, not exactly a box, but something she can use to store all her canvases for painting. She designed it, just like she has with all the other things we’ve made over the years—which, believe me, has been in the thousands. And I’m not kidding there—we’ve got the pictures to prove it. Should be an interesting project and a nice belated birthday present for her, seeing as her birthday was just yesterday. My style of gift-giving, of course. That should keep me busy for most of the day, but if I find some extra time, I’m thinking about making a few more birdhouses to put up around our place. We’ve got a few already, but I figure another four would be nice. We’ll see how it all works out. I will post some pictures when I get them all made.

Other than that, not much else is going on around our small community—at least, not at the moment. It’s a quiet time of year, and I expect it’ll stay that way until the warmer weather moves in. Then… well, that’s when things will get folks moving around a bit more. My wife and I are both looking forward to some front porch sittin’, enjoying the fresh air and the change of pace.

So with all that in mind, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and then I’ll get to making more memories—because that’s what life is all about. Well isn’t it?

Until next time: Keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

The Country Writer’s Notebook on March 27/2025

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Good Morning! My old Dad used to say: “George… if you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re missing half the fun of living.”

It’s a cool morning here in cottage country, but at least the sun is shining, which makes a big difference when starting the day, especially when you’ve been around as long as we have. Add a little light, a little warmth, and maybe a hot coffee, things start looking up.

Weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario Canada

Today:
A chilly one out there, starting off around 21°F (-6°C) with some wet flurries floating around. By the afternoon, it’ll warm up a little to 39°F (4°C), but don’t put the coat away just yet as rain and snow might still make an appearance. By evening things will cool down to about 32°F (0°C), with those flurries still hanging around.

Tonight:
Skies will start to clear up a bit, but that means the temperature’s going to take a nosedive. You can expect it to drop down to 16°F (-9°C), so if you’ve got a wood-stove, tonight’s a good night to keep it stoked.

Tomorrow:
Well… tomorrow, a mix of sun and clouds will start the day, with temperatures hovering around 32°F (0°C) in the morning. By the afternoon, it won’t be much warmer, with it sitting at 32°F (0°C), and… there’s a slight chance of flurries. As the sun sets, it’ll dip back down to 16°F (-9°C), so best keep that winter coat within reach a little longer.

Highway 522 is clear of snow and ice this morning, which will make for good traveling for those heading to the big city for supplies. That’s exactly what my lovely wife and I did yesterday.

First stop was the garage to get an oil change and have them check our brakes. Pays to keep an eye on those things in this country—what with all the salt and whatever else they’re dumping on the highways these days. Let’s just say it sure has a way of messing things up. The good news? Our brakes are looking pretty good.

While we were there, we had them swap out our snow tires for summer ones. Oh, I know—some folks will say winter isn’t over yet, and they’re probably right. But my wife and I figured, might as well get it done. If we get a bit more snow, well, we’ll just stay put until it’s gone. At this stage in life, we’re not in a rush to go anywhere or do much of anything. That said, a person ought to make the most of a day, as there is no sense sitting around when there’s work to be done. Though, between you and me, I’ve found that if you sit real still with a coffee in hand, folks just assume you’re deep in thought. Seems to work.

It should also be noted that the folks who worked on our car are real nice—treat us with respect, and best of all, they’re honest. As my old dad used to say, “An honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay.” Hard to find people like that anymore.

They’re not located in our town, but they’re not too far away, and truth be told, it’s right on our way to the city, which is a nice added bonus. And I’ll tell you, they don’t charge near as much as some places I’ve been to, especially those dealerships. Man, do they know how to empty a pocketbook.

One last thing, if you need work done, they don’t take months to squeeze you in.

After that, we made our way into town to grab what we needed, and then I took my lovely wife out to celebrate our 52nd wedding anniversary. Fifty-two years together—that’s a long time, and when I look around, I’d say it’s a bit of a milestone. In today’s world, a lot of marriages don’t even last a year. But with my wife, it’s been nothing but working together, sharing everything, and always being there for each other, no matter what comes our way. We’ve stuck together through thick and thin, and I reckon that’s the secret to making it last. We’re still going strong, and I wouldn’t trade a minute of it.

With that, I’m off for my breakfast and our hot cocoa, and then we’ll get into our regular morning chat. Since it’s our anniversary, maybe we’ll talk about when we were young and first getting together, reflect on our life together. Hmm, maybe not all of it. We’ve done so much, traveled so many roads, it would take more than one day of chatting to cover everything! In fact, we’d probably need a whole week, and even then, we’d only scratch the surface.

Until next time: Keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

Mornings from the Back Forty on March 24/2025

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Good Morning! As my old Dad used to say: “George… never trust a fence post that leans or a fella that won’t look you in the eye.”

Well, one thing’s for sure—winter hasn’t left us yet. Waking up this morning, I had to walk to my old woodworking shop through about six inches of fresh snow. And it’s still coming down.

Here’s what the skies have in store:​

Today (Monday, March 24):

  • Morning: Snow’s been falling steady, adding up to about 0.8 to 1.6 inches (2 to 4 cm).​
  • Afternoon: Snow continues, with temperatures peaking around 35°F (2°C).​
  • Evening: Light snow tapers off as night falls, with lows dipping to 25°F (-4°C).​

Tonight:

  • Mainly cloudy with a chance of lingering flurries. Bundle up, as it’s going to be a chilly 25°F (-4°C).​

Tomorrow (Tuesday, March 25):

  • Morning: Cloudy skies greet the day, with temperatures around 32°F (0°C).​
  • Afternoon: The clouds stick around, keeping things cool.​
  • Evening: Temperatures drop to a frosty 19°F (-7°C) under overcast skies.​

Looks like winter’s not ready to pack up just yet.

So, yeah, the weather sure isn’t the greatest this morning, that’s for sure. The good news is the snow isn’t all that heavy, which will make it a bit easier to move. The only problem is whether my old body can handle it.

Earlier this morning, sore back and all from yesterday, I had to bring some more firewood in. Figured I’d give my back a break and wheel a few loads in with the old wheelbarrow. I did manage to get three loads in, and that was all I could do. But I’m thinking, or at least hoping, that’ll be enough to see us through the rest of the cold weather.

I’ve been holding off on buying furnace oil since they say the price is supposed to drop quite a bit come April 1. That sure would help the old pocketbook. But I guess we’ll see if that prediction actually comes true, or if it’s just another one of those things folks keep saying to keep your hopes up.

Anyway, today with my back the way it is, is looking like a take-it-easy kind of day. If the snow lets up, I’ll see if I can get the old snowblower to start, that is if I am up to it. I was hoping we wouldn’t need it anymore this year, but that’s how it goes up here in the north, one minute you’re out raking the garden, dreaming of fresh veggies, and the next, you’re dragging out the snow shovels and coaxing the snowblower into cooperating.

For now I suppose I’ll just pour another coffee and see what the day brings. With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife has ready for me and will then see what the day has in store.

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

The Old Timer’s Ledger on March 23/2025

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Good Morning! As my old Dad used to say: “George, If you want something done right, do it slow enough to do it right the first time.”

Well folks, it’s another cold morning here waking up in cottage country. However, the sun is shining, and as I walked out to my old woodworking shop to light the stove, I could feel the warmth in the sun. That’s a good sign that spring isn’t all that far off.

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

Today (Sunday, March 23): We’re looking at mostly sunny skies with temperatures climbing’ to a high of 37°F (3°C). Later on, clouds might mosey in, bringing a slight chance of flurries this evening. Winds will be coming in from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph, so hold onto your hat. ​

Tonight: Temperatures are settlin’ down to a low of 24°F (-4°C). There’s a chance of snow showers overnight, so keep that wood stove stoked and cozy up. ​

Monday, March 24: Expect periods of snow throughout the day with highs around 35°F (2°C). Winds will be light, but that snow might just blanket our neck of the woods, so keep your shovel handy.

And you might want to keep that fire burning for awhile longer.

Which is what I did this morning lighting back up our wood furnace in our basement. Should keep us nice and toasty for the rest of the day. Doesn’t take much wood to keep this house warm.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, and with the sun shining, traveling should be pretty good if you’re headin’ to the city for supplies. But, as I always say, keep your eyes peeled for deer — those critters seem to think the middle of the road is the perfect spot for a morning meeting.

On another note yesterday again I was planning on working in my wood-working shop but with the weather being not so nice and quite cold I decided to stay in the house which I did writing up a couple more stories. Good day for writing with the words flowing like a spring creek.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, I think I’ll be taking it easy today. I brought in a couple of armfuls of firewood and managed to mess up my back a bit. Not sure what I did, but it’s sure letting me know it’s time to lay low — and my wife’s saying the same thing. So, that’s what I’m going to do.

After that, if I’m feeling up to it, I’ll be enjoying the breakfast she’s getting ready for me. I suppose a fella’s got to learn his limits.

Until the next time: Keep Your Mind Open And Your Stories Alive! GW

Ramblings of a Country Writer on March22/2025

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Only On The Walters Post!

Good Morning! You know, over the years I have found that a man’s handshake is his word, so keep yours firm and honest.

Well Folks, the calendar might say it’s spring, but I’ll tell ya, walking out to my wood-working shop early this morning sure didn’t feel like it. More like the middle of winter. And that wind coming in from the North along with the snow—well, let’s just say I was more than ready to turn around and head back into the house.

The shop itself though was nice and warm, but it’s that stretch between the house and the shop that’ll make a fella question his sanity, for even bothering to go outside in the first place. I suppose that’s just Northern Ontario’s way of reminding me who’s really in charge around here. Any way, once I got settled in with the wood stove crackling away and the smell of fresh-cut lumber in the air, it felt like the cold was just a distant memory.

Funny thing about days like this—no matter how fierce the wind blows or how hard the snow falls, there’s something about the quiet of the shop that makes it all worthwhile. And maybe, just maybe, a fella can convince himself spring ain’t all that far off after all.

Highway 522 is white this morning, which is a telltale sign that a person should stay home unless it’s absolutely necessary to be out and about. And you can bet that’s exactly what my lovely wife and I plan on doing. No sense braving the slick roads when a hot cup of coffee and a warm fire are calling our names.

Days like this, the world can wait. And if anyone needs us, well, they can always trudge through the snow and come knocking. Though, I suspect they’d rather stay home too.

On another note, I didn’t make it out to do any work in my wood-working shop yesterday, though I did keep the shop stove going, which kept things nice and cozy. Nothing like the warmth of a good wood stove on a cold day.

I do have more work that needs doing, but it isn’t in the shop—it’s over in one of my side buildings. I’ve got to sort through things in there, just like I did with the main shop. Once I get that all squared away, I’ll be ready for spring. And when the weather finally decides to warm up, my wife and I are planning one heck of a sale. The kind of sale where there’s something for everyone.

What more can I say? Not much, really. Just a waiting game now, I suppose.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, seeing as it’s nasty outside, I figure I’ll settle back into writing up some more stories for my newspaper columns. Yesterday was a great day for writing—the words flowed nicely, almost like they were waiting to be written. And by the looks of things, today’s shaping up to be another good day for writing, as the words seem to be coming pretty easily here on my blog this morning, too.

Might just be one of those days where the thoughts and stories find their way onto the page without much fuss. And if that’s the case, I sure won’t be complaining.

Well, once again, it’s that time to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has made for me. She’s one of a kind, that’s for sure. And if anyone ever wonders who the real hard worker is around here, let me tell ya—it sure isn’t me.

Just this morning, while I was out getting the shop stove going and writing this blog, she’d already straightened herself around, cleaned up the house a bit, swept the floors, stripped the bed because it’s wash day, made it back up with fresh, clean sheets, and tidied up the bedroom. And now, she’s in the kitchen making my breakfast, humming away like it’s all just another ordinary day.

I swear, there’s never a shortage of work in this house, and she tackles it all with more energy than most folks half her age. Truth be told, I don’t know where she finds the strength, but she sure does. And all the while, she’s got a smile on her face and something kind to say. She’s the kind of woman who makes a man feel like he’s the luckiest fella in the world.

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

Morning Thoughts from the Northern Trail on March 21/2025

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Good Morning! As my old Dad used to say: “If you can’t fix it with a hammer, George, you’ve got yourself an electrical problem.”

Well, folks, yesterday might’ve been the first day of spring, but you sure wouldn’t know it by what’s happening weather-wise this morning. Through the night, we got ourselves a good two to three inches of snow, and as I write this, the temperature’s sitting at a brisk 18.68°F | -7.4°C. But hey, the sun’s shining, so it at least looks a bit like spring—sort of.

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

Friday, March 21:

  • Daytime: Expect a mix of sun and clouds, with a 40% chance of flurries. High around 44°F (7°C).
  • Night: Cloudy skies. Low near 21°F (-6°C).

Saturday, March 22:

  • Daytime: Cloudy with a 60% chance of snow or rain. High approximately 30°F (-1°C).
  • Night: Partly cloudy with a 40% chance of snow. Low dropping to 7°F (-14°C).

So…. it looks like spring’s just teasing us again, like a feller waving’ a pie under your nose and then running off with it!

Highway 522’s mostly clear of snow, so traveling’ should be decent today for those making their way to the larger towns. But don’t let your guard down as there’s always plenty of deer along the roadside and crossing the highway, especially this time of year. Just the other day, on our trip to the city and back, we had to slow down for at least six of ’em crossing the road—keeps you on your toes, that’s for sure.

On another note, I finally got the main shop all cleaned up and everything sorted out. It sure was a job going through fifty years or more of stuff—felt like I was digging’ through history itself! But it’s all done now, and what I want to keep is tucked away, and everything we’re selling’ is in another spot. Feels good to have that off my plate, though I’m sure I’ll find something else to clean up next!

So what’s on the agenda for today, GW? Well, with the ground covered in ice and snow again, I guess I’ll be working away here at my computer, writing up a couple more stories for my columns. I write for the largest newspaper in Canada—been at it for over 36 years now. That should keep me busy this morning. After lunch, we’ll see what the weather’s up to and take it from there.

With that, I’m off once again for the breakfast my lovely wife has gotten ready for me. After that we’ll enjoy our regular morning chat along with our hot cocoa, and then, well, I’ll get to writing. At least that’s the plan—though, some days, the words flow like water, and other days, it’s nothing but blank pages.

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

Country Views on a Changing World on March 20/2025

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Good Morning! Living slow ain’t lazy not by a long shot…it’s just knowing what’s worth hurrying for.

She’s a wet, rainy morning here in the north, but the good news is, it’s not too cold outside. In saying that, the mild temperatures have melted most of our snow and ice. Oh, there’s still a bit hanging on the north side of things, but with this warmth, it won’t be around much longer.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, with most folks around here sleeping in thanks to the dreary, cloudy weather. Can’t say I blame ’em none, but I remember years ago, a day lying in bed wouldn’t get the cows milked, or the chickens fed. And as my old Dad used to say; “A day shouldn’t be wasted.” And if there is one thing my wife and I never do…is waste a day, as our days are full, always have been, and by the looks of things these days, always will be.

On another note, I had plans yesterday to spend some time puttering around in my old woodworking shop. But like most days, things didn’t go quite as planned, as out of the blue, my wife and I decided to head on into town to pick up a few supplies, we were running low on. And wouldn’t you know it, after stocking up, we found ourselves at a fast-food joint, ordering up a burger and fries. Now, that’s not something we do very often do, but the urge got to me, wanting to see what the other half has been eating these days. I have to say that the fast food place was sure busy with folks waiting in line for their food. Taste-wise, I’ll admit, it wasn’t all that bad. But later that night? Well, let’s just say my stomach sure let me know it wasn’t happy with my lunch choices, which goes to show, some foods taste good going down, but your body’s got the final say.

At any rate, we picked up what we needed, along with a few things we hadn’t exactly planned on. Always amazes me how that happens! I swear the stores must know what catches our eye and stick ’em right where we’ll see ’em. And on impulse, we grab it, only to wonder later why the hell we bought it in the first place. But, like most things, it is what it is. Once we were done shopping, we grabbed a coffee for the trip home, taking in the sights along the way. You know, living where we do, the scenery is always changing, especially this time of year. Kind of nice, really, watching the white landscape slowly turning’ to green. So yea, all and all, other than spending money... it was one great day.

So, what’s on your agenda today, GW? Well, earlier this morning, I went out and got the wood stove going in the woodworking shop, which is burning nicely warming things up, which will make it a lot nicer to work in, once I have my breakfast. And by the looks of things my lovely wife’s got it all ready, sitting on the kitchen table, just waiting for me. After I’ve had that, we’ll have our regular cup of hot cocoa, and of course, our morning chat. Then… I’ll head outdoors to see what the day brings.

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

A Northern Writer’s Take on Life on March 18/2025

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Good Morning! As my old Dad being a farmer used to say: “George the day’s an empty field….what you plant is up to you.”

We’re having a bit of sunshine here this morning, but even with the sun shining, it’s still cool. The ice in our rain barrel is a sure sign that spring hasn’t quite made its way here yet.

Weather Forecast For Today!

Today (Tuesday, March 18):
We’re looking at a day where the clouds start to thicken up. Temperatures will climb to around 49°F (9°C), which ain’t too bad for this time of year.

Tonight:
The skies stay cloudy, and it’s gonna cool off some, with temperatures dropping to a chilly 34°F (1°C). Might be a good night to keep the wood-stove fired up.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, March 19):
You can expect some milder weather rolling in, but with that comes on-and-off rain and drizzle throughout the day. The mercury will rise to about 59°F (15°C), so it’s not all bad—just make sure you got your rain gear handy.

Looks like a mixed bag, but at least it’s warming up a touch!

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, with traffic starting to pick up a wee bit. It won’t be long before the folks with cottages start thinking about opening them up for the summer. And with that, the tourists will be rolling into the area, which is sure to put a smile on the faces of all the local business owners.

On another note, I spent most of yesterday working away in my old woodworking shop. Got a lot more sorted out and even started installing that new tire and tube on my cart—the one I use for moving the bigger, heavier things. Trouble is, the new tube I bought a couple of years ago turned out to be defective, so I had to order another one. Seems like things sure aren’t made like they used to be. Anyway, I set it aside and will finish the job once the new tube arrives. That old cart sure seems stubborn about being fixed for some reason.

So, what are you up to today, GW? Well, I still have a few boxes to go through, and once that’s done, I’ll be tackling the mess I’ve made over the past few weeks while sorting things for the sale this spring. Which, should keep me busy for most of the day. I’ll be glad to get it out of the way because, with spring just around the corner, I’m looking forward to spending time outside, tidying up our gardens and soaking in the fresh air and sunshine.

So, with that, I’m off once again for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I’ll head out to the woodworking shop—well, after we have our regular hot cocoa and chat. Can’t forget that!

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

What’s Coming for Port Loring? Weather Wise

Only On The Walters Post

Short-Term (Next Week):

  • We’re in for a mixed bag. A few mild days, some rain midweek, and then another cold snap around Thursday.
  • Might see some flurries early Saturday, but nothing major.
  • Nights are still dipping below freezing, so don’t get ahead of yourself thinking spring is here just yet.

Long-Term (Next Month or Two):

  • Spring is trying to push through, but it’ll come in fits and starts—warm one day, cold the next.
  • Expect plenty of rain, and maybe even some late snow squalls before April settles in.
  • If the weather systems don’t shift enough, we could be in for a dry, warm spell later on.

What It Means for the Farm & Garden:

  • Planting: Hold off on putting anything tender in the ground. Frost is still a real threat at night.
  • Soil Moisture: Should be decent for now with the rain coming, but if the weather swings dry later, we might have to keep an eye on it.
  • Fire Risk: If we get some warm, dry air moving in from the south, it could dry things up fast. Don’t go burning brush carelessly.
  • Livestock: If you’ve got animals, they’ll be dealing with some wild swings in temps. Make sure they’ve got shelter from the wind and rain.

In short, spring is trying, but winter’s still got a few punches left. Keep the heavy coat handy, don’t trust the warm days too much, and watch the sky.

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

The Day Wakes Slowly in Northern Ontario on March 17/2025

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Good Morning! Spring Ain’t Here Yet, But She’s Thinkin’ About It.

It’s a cold morning waking up in Whispering Pines; however, in saying that, it is sunny, which makes things, at the very least, look nice.

Today (Monday, March 17):
Breezy and colder with intervals of clouds and sun. High around 39°F (4°C), low dipping to 28°F (-2°C). Winds coming from the north at 12 mph (20 km/h) before calming down later in the day.

Tonight:
Clouds will be rolling in early this evening, bringing a 60% chance of flurries overnight. Light winds at around 9 mph (15 km/h). Low near 23°F (-5°C).

Tuesday, March 18:
The day will start off cloudy with a 40% chance of flurries, shifting to a mix of rain showers or flurries in the afternoon. South winds at 12 mph (20 km/h) will calm down later. High reaching around 48°F (9°C).
Evening will remain cloudy with a low of about 36°F (2°C).

So, whether you’re planning on cutting some wood or just sitting by the fire with a hot cup of coffee, it’s good to be prepared. And it sure doesn’t hurt to keep that umbrella close by, just in case!

Highway 522 is dry and clear of snow this morning. Mind you, with the temperature dropping last night and the rain finally tapering off, we did get a light dusting of snow—just enough to remind us that Old Man Winter ain’t quite ready to pack his bags yet. But truth be told, it ain’t much to fuss about, not even worth mentioning here on my blog.

On another note, I spent most of the day yesterday tinkering away in my old woodworking shop. Seems like every time I turn around, there’s another pile of odds and ends waiting to be sorted. I still have more to go through, trying to figure out what’s worth keeping and what should be set aside for our big spring sale. Like I’ve been saying here for the past few weeks, I swear I don’t know where all this stuff came from. It’s like the wood, tools, and knickknacks just keep multiplying when I’m not looking.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, first off, I’m going to be putting a new tire on that old cart of mine. You know, the one I use for lugging around things that are too damn heavy for me to move by myself. I can’t be pushing my luck too much these days, as it seems the older I get, the more my body squawks at me when I overdo things.

Anyway, I picked up a new tire and tube for it last year. Now, where I put ‘em is another story. They could be buried somewhere here in the shop, or maybe tucked away in one of the outbuildings. Wherever they are, I’ll have to dig ‘em up and get ‘em installed. Truth told, i been meaning to do that for, oh, I don’t know…a few years now? Somehow, it just keeps getting put off.

The tire on there now looks like something you’d find on an old relic from the scrap yard—cracked all to pieces, cords sticking out like whiskers on a grumpy old dog. It’ll hold air for about half an hour, if I’m lucky, just long enough to move whatever I need moved before it goes flat again. And then, like always, that new tire gets put back on the old back burner.

But not today. Nope, this morning I’m gonna finally take care of that problem. With all the boxes and things I’ve got to haul for this spring sale, that old cart is gonna be my best friend. So yeah, that’s what GW’s up to this morning. I think.

Well, I suppose I best be getting on with it. The missus has breakfast ready, and if I don’t make my way to the table soon, she might just leave me to fend for myself with nothing but cold toast. After that, I’ll be settling in with a hot mug of cocoa and our usual morning chat. Funny thing is, after fifty-some years together, we still find plenty to talk about. Guess that’s how you know you’ve found the right gal.

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

The Country Writer’s Corner on March 16/2025

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Good Morning! Coffee’s brewing, thoughts are stewing, and the day’s just waiting for something worth doing.

It’s a wet and wild morning here in Whispering Pines Country—perfect weather for a second cup of coffee and watching the storm roll through.

Weather Forecast;

Today:
A wet and wild one, with rain coming down steady this morning. Temps will climb to around 54°F (12°C) by afternoon before cooling off. By evening, expect a mix of rain and maybe even a few flakes, dropping to 36°F (2°C) before nightfall.

Tonight:
The rain eases up, but the cold settles in. Skies will start to clear, and temperatures will take a nosedive to around 19°F (-7°C) overnight. A good night to throw an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow:
A fresh, crisp start with a mix of sun and clouds in the morning, sitting around 28°F (-2°C). By afternoon, the sun makes a stronger appearance, warming things up to 39°F (4°C). Come evening, temps slide back down to 27°F (-3°C), with a chance of a few flurries overnight.

So, it’s a wet start but a chilly finish, which sounds like a perfect excuse to take it slow and enjoy a warm drink by the fire.

Highway 522 is slow these days, but with the roads clear of snow and ice, traveling’s a lot nicer. People are taking it easy, and with the deer roaming more freely, it’s best to keep an eye out and slow down even more. Seems like the only thing in a hurry these days is the weather!

On another note: I spent another day wrestling with the chaos in the old woodworking shop, sorting through years of… well, stuff. Uncovered things I’d completely forgotten I owned. But I got a decent chunk cleared, aiming to finish the rest today. Now comes the fun part: boxing it all up for the spring sale. Right now, my benches and equipment are practically buried under a mountain of jars and tins … you’d think I was running a hardware store . Never thought I’d become such a pack rat, collector, hoarder, whatever. But once this is done, I am thinking that the shop’s actually going to be better than it ever was. I might even be able to find things without needing a search party.

So, what’s on the agenda for today, GW? Well, as I mentioned earlier, today I’m hoping to wrap things up in the woodworking shop. Been at it for a week or more now, and let me tell you, I’m ready for a change. Sorting through jars, boxes, baskets, and tins of who-knows-what has its charm, but it’s starting to feel like I’m living in an antique store.

Still, I’ve got one more big task ahead—going through all the electronics I’ve collected over the years. With two boys in the electronics biz, I’ve ended up with more hand-me-downs than I can count, most of which I never use. Time to pass those along at the spring sale, too. And don’t forget, my lovely wife has been steadily boxing up all the house items she’s clearing out for the sale as well.

So, yeah, lots done, but plenty more to go. Guess we’re not running short on things to keep us busy!

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, made by my lovely wife, then our regular chat, and of course, can’t forget our hot cup of cocoa. What would a day be without that?

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

The Country Writer’s Notebook on March 15/2025

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Good Morning! Living where we do, if you listen close, you can hear the quiet wisdom of the woods waking up.

It’s a bit cloudy this morning here in Cottage Country. We did have a touch of sunshine sneaking over the horizon earlier, painting the eastern sky with a warm, rosy glow. Sure was a sight for tired eyes to see, and a great way to kick off the day. Nothing’ like a good sunrise to put a feller in the right frame of mind, even if the clouds are trying’ to take over.

Today (Saturday, March 15):

  • High: 56°F (13°C)
  • Low: 49°F (10°C)
  • Outlook: It’s looking like a mild but cloudy day, with some showers passing through. So, if you were thinking of digging in the garden, you might want to put that on hold—not that you’d get a shovel into the ground with all that snow still stickin’ around.

Weather Forecast For Today Here In Port Loring, Ontario, Canada!

Tonight:

  • Low: 49°F (10°C)
  • Outlook: Clouds are rolling in with a 60% chance of rain. Perfect night to kick back with a hot drink and a good book.

Tomorrow (Sunday, March 16):

  • High: 55°F (13°C)
  • Low: 22°F (-5°C)
  • Outlook: Things are warming up a bit during the day with some rain expected, but by nightfall, the temperature’s dropping like a stone, and we might even see some flurries. Winter sure likes to stick around longer than it’s welcome.

Special Weather Statement:
They’re calling for some heavy rain this weekend, with totals between 0.6 to 1.6 inches (15 to 40 mm). Funny thing is, when you hear it in inches, it doesn’t sound all that bad. Just another reason why I ain’t a fan of the metric system as it sure knows how to make things sound worse than they really are! The frozen ground isn’t soaking much of it up, so keep an eye out for pooling water and local flooding. Good day to stay dry and enjoy a little time indoors.

Highway 522 is bare and so far dry which once again will make traveling good if your in need of heading into the big city for supplies.

On another note, I spent the day once again in my woodworking shop, sorting things out and getting ready for the sale later this spring. I’m making some good headway now, which sure feels a lot better. I have to admit, when I first started, it was a real dilemma—like trying to carve a straight line out of a twisted log. But, just like any project, if you tackle it a bit at a time, the pieces start to fit together. As any woodworker would tell ya,

With that, I’m off for the breakfast my little woman’s been putting together. Then, we’ll settle in with our regular cup of hot cocoa—just like we’ve been doing every morning for over fifty years.

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

Notes from the Northern Countryside on March 14/2025

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Good Morning! As the Laura the lady that raised me used to say: “Sunrise doesn’t ask permission to shine, GW, and neither should you.”

It’s looking like we’re in for another nice day here in the north. The sun is shining, and the temperature is rising. The kind of day that makes an old feller feel like getting out to the shop and doing some work. Though, after all the sorting and cleaning I’ve been doing in there lately, it’s starting to look so organized I’m almost afraid to mess it up. Almost.

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

Friday, March 14:

  • Day: Mainly sunny with a high around 56°F (13°C).
  • Night: Partly cloudy, low near 43°F (6°C).

Saturday, March 15:

  • Day: A few showers expected with a high near 56°F (13°C).
  • Night: Rain likely, low around 48°F (9°C).

Special Weather Statement:

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the weekend, indicating significant rainfall is possible from Saturday evening through Sunday night. Total rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 mm (approximately 0.8 to 1.6 inches) are expected, with locally higher amounts possible due to the risk of thunderstorms. The frozen ground may have a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall, leading to localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads.

Once again, I worked the day away in our old woodworking shop, sorting out jars, boxes, and tins of things I never even knew I had. At this rate, I’m starting to think I could open my own hardware store,,,’Walters’ World of Odds and Ends.’ And let me tell you, between all the stuff I’ve been digging out of the shop and all the treasures my lovely wife has been gathering in the house, we’re gearing up for one heck of a sale later this spring. If this keeps up, folks might be leaving here with everything from antique screws to who-knows-what gadgets…most of which I’m pretty sure I saved for reasons I can’t remember!

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, that’s not too hard to figure out. My bench is piled high with all sorts of things I’m trying to decide whether to save or get rid of. So, yeah, that’s what I’ll be doing for most of the day, I suspect. But you know, I’ve learned over the years that you can’t look at the big picture when you’re tackling a jobs like this. If you do, you’ll just end up feeling overwhelmed before you even start. The trick is to just get to it, one jar or box or project at a time, and eventually, things all get done. And by the looks of things in my shop, I’d say I’m about halfway done! At least I think I am.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which should make traveling pretty good for those out and about. As for my wife and me, we’re all set, no need to head off to town anytime soon. And with the cost of food and gas these days, well, let’s just say it feels like you need to take out a small loan just to buy a loaf of bread and a jug of milk.

But, you know, in saying that, when it comes to all these tariffs, there’s a flip side. While they might raise the price of some things, they also give a boost to local production. With imported goods getting pricier, Canadian businesses have a better chance to compete, which means more jobs and more products made right here at home. That could help build a stronger economy, reduce reliance on supply chains from overseas, and maybe even lower prices in the long run.

So, while things may feel a bit tight now, there’s a chance that all of this could pay off with a more resilient local market. No need for folks to get too riled up, it’s a bit of a shake-up, but in the end, it might just be good for us all.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, that my lovely wife put together for me. And after that, we’ll enjoy our usual cup of hot cocoa and have our regular morning chat, which helps keep the mind on the straight and narrow for the rest of the day… or at least, that’s the hope.

Until next time: Keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

Rural Reflections & Morning Brews Here In The North on March 13/2025

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Good Morning! You know being a farmer, woodworker, and writer means I’m never short on work, but it seems I always have time for coffee.

It’s another cloudy morning, but hey, the good news is, things are warming up quite a bit. Those cool mornings followed by nice days… well, that’s what spring is all about up here in the north. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of nudging us awake gently before she cranks up the heat.

Now, here’s what’s cookin’ weather-wise for Port Loring, Ontario, Canada:
Today, we’ll be seeing a high of 52°F (11°C). Not bad at all, unless you’re one of those folks who can’t warm up till the mercury hits a full-blown summer’s day. The clouds will be sticking around for most of the day, but there’s always the chance the sun might poke its head out just to say, “Howdy!”

Tonight, temperatures will drop to a low of 37°F (3°C). So, if you’re out and about, might want to hang on to your woollies a little longer.

As for tomorrow, well tomorrow, things are shaping up nicely with temperatures climbing to around 55°F (13°C). Now, if you’re the sort who insists on hearing Celsius first, well, I guess you could flip those numbers around. But for me and my lovely wife we like the ol’ Fahrenheit system. You could say it’s like coffee versus tea: One’s just got a bit more kick to it.

Highway 522 is pretty well bare of all snow and ice these days, which makes traveling to the big cities a whole lot nicer if your in need of supplies, that you can’t get here locally. But before you get too comfy with that gas pedal, remember... we still have to keep an eye out for deer, moose, and the occasional wild turkey. Those turkeys seem to think they own the road these days, strutting across like they’re in some kind of bird parade. So ya, it’s not just the potholes trying to ruin your day!

And as the locals like to say, around here, you’re not just driving the roads, you’re negotiating with nature. I have even heard that some folks claim their trucks know the way to town better than they do, especially on those early morning runs when the coffee hasn’t quite kicked in. Others swear the best way to avoid hitting anything is to belt out a good tune while driving, loud enough to scare off the critters. And of course, there’s the classic bit of advice: if you see a deer standing by the road, you can bet its cousin is lurking just behind it, waiting to make your day a whole lot more exciting. Not sure if its a kissin’ cousin or not.

So once again yesterday, I spent the whole day out in my old woodworking shop, sorting through things for the big sale we’re planning a little later this spring. And let me tell you, it’s shaping up to be a good one, judging by the sheer amount of stuff I’ve been sifting through. And I haven’t even touched the things I’ve got stashed away in the corners that I barely use anymore.

Honestly, I have no idea where half of it came from. It’s like the sawdust fairy’s been dropping off tools and gadgets while I wasn’t looking. But one thing’s for sure… it all has to go sooner rather than later. Otherwise, I’ll be featured on one of those shows where they have to dig folks out of their own workshops. Who knew a woodworking shop had such a knack for multiplying when you’re not paying attention?

So, what’s on the agenda today, GW? Well, not much has changed in that department. I’ll be carrying on with sorting things out for the sale. That should keep me busy most of the day…except for the occasional coffee breaks with my lovely wife, of course. Now, she’s been working just as hard as I have, only inside the house, and I’ve gotta tell ya, she’s got her hands full.

She’s one tough cookie, that woman, never complains. Well, not much anyway, as the air does get a little blue if things don’t go quite her way, but hey, we all have our moments, right? She’s been sorting through everything one drawer at a time. Boxes are filling up!

And don’t forget about all the small gift shop items we’ve got to get rid of. All of it’s got to go, like I’ve mentioned before, but it doesn’t hurt to remind folks. We’re clearing house/shop and store here, and I think by the end of it, we’ll have just about everything but the kitchen sink in the sale. But trust me, even that might be up for grabs if we keep going at this pace!

So, with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman has made for me. Pancakes are on the menu this morning, along with our hot cocoa and, of course, a nice morning chat afterwards. It’s one of those little traditions that makes everything else seem a bit easier to tackle.

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