A misty morning scene from the heart of the countryside. Take a closer look to soak in the quiet comforts of the day ahead.

Good Morning Folks! I hope you all had a great weekend.

You know, where my lovely wife and I live in the countryside, mornings still unfold in a way that feels untouched by time, filled with a peace that the city could never quite match. I’ve come to treasure the quiet and the space, far from the hum of city life. Yet, I can’t help but notice the world closing in a bit—more folks seeking out this simplicity, drawn by what we’ve known all along. Progress, they call it, but there’s a part of me that wonders.

It makes me think back to those old farmers of the 1800s, folks who went days without seeing a soul, just land stretching as far as the eye could see. I imagine them at the breakfast table, leaning over their coffee, saying, “Well, dear, if this keeps up, we might just have to pack our things and head farther west. It’s getting crowded around here.” They were looking for the same peace we find in our mornings, and when others drew near, they’d keep moving, chasing that quiet as best/long as they could.

So, here’s to enjoying what we’ve still got while it’s ours to hold. May this morning bring you the kind of calm that’s been handed down through the ages—the kind found when neighbors were as scarce as hen’s teeth, and peace stretched from one horizon clear to the other. In a world that’s always changing, sometimes the best we can do is enjoy these moments that remind us of how life was meant to be.

How’s that for a morning’s intro, from an old writer—among other things.

Anyway, it’s a cloudy, wet morning here in the north. We had some rain through the night—not all that much, mind ya, but enough to keep a sensible person indoors, or in my case, out in the woodworking shop. Yesterday, I got to puttering around in both places, and I’ll tell ya, there’s something downright satisfying about moving from one project to the next, knowing time’s finally your own.

They say freedom is for the young, but truth told, I figure it takes a lifetime to understand it. The real trick to freedom isn’t just time on your hands; it’s knowing what you’re doing with it that makes the difference.

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Today, well, being it’s a wet one out there, and I don’t much feel like lighting the stove in the shop. I think I’ll stick to the computer this morning. Yesterday, I spent the better part of the day wrestling with my external mic for making videos. Tried every trick I knew, but that thing wouldn’t cooperate for love nor money.

In the end, I threw up my hands and called my son, Karl. Now, he’s a real expert with technology. Linked right up to my computer, and in less than an hour, he had things sorted out. Truth be told, most folks—including the ones who made the mic—probably wouldn’t have been able to fix it. If it wasn’t for him, that mic would’ve probably found its way to the trash.

I’m mighty lucky to have him around. And my other son, Craig, well—he’s just as smart in his own field. Damn fortunate, I am, to have both of them. They’re not always by my side these days, living so far apart, but they are always just a call away when something needs doing, or goes wrong, as family should be.

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

You all have a great day and remember, life’s a lot like the weather out here: it may change on a dime, but there’s always something good in it, that is if you take the time to look. GW

Tap on the picture to enlarge it and enjoy the scene up close!

Good morning! Rise and shine, as the sun won’t wait all day, and neither will the coffee pot!

It’s a clear, brisk start for us here in the north, with the temperature sitting around 1°C (34°F)—though with the wind, it feels closer to -10°C (14°F). By mid-morning, it should warm up a touch to about 4°C (39°F). Perfect for a walk or some outdoor work, that is, if you don’t mind bundling up a bit. Clear skies ahead, too!

But I’ve got to say, heading to my woodworking shop around 7:30 AM, watching that sun creep up over the horizon—it’s a sight that never gets old. There’s just something about a Northern sunrise that stirs the soul, makes me feel like it’s going to be a good day.

Highway 522 had its fair share of traffic yesterday, at least, what we’d call traffic up here! Folks were out doing their usual rounds, maybe hoping to spot something new, or just checking in on the usual sights to make sure nothing’s moved since last week!

Yesterday was one of those good, productive days, where I managed to stay at the computer long enough to finish up some new YouTube videos, and even got a fresh story written for my newspaper columns. There’s nothing quite like that feeling of accomplishment when things fall into place. I do enjoy writing, but I’ve come to know over the years, that it only works when I’m in the right frame of mind. If I’m not, well, every word feels like a struggle, and I’m just spinning my wheels, so to speak. But when the mood’s right, it’s a whole different story—the work just flows.

Today’s got that familiar Northern chill, so I’ll likely be inside again, working on a few projects here at my desk. But first, I’m heading out to grab some garden soil—a bit of an odd winter ritual my wife and I swear by. We scoop up fresh soil, pop it in two containers, and come evening, we settle in, resting our feet in it while watching TV or reading a book.

Now, it might sound a bit strange, but there’s real magic in that soil. Grounding like this does wonders, not just for relaxation, but for the whole body. We’ve found it eases aches, soothes tension, and even seems to boost our energy. It also helps with all sorts of ailments, from inflammation to stress, and I can tell you firsthand it makes for some of the best sleep around.

We’ve been at this for years, and honestly, it’s become as essential as a warm cup of tea on a cold night. There’s nothing quite like the feel of rich, earthy soil, as it connects us to nature, leaves us feeling rejuvenated, and gives the neighbors something to wonder about when they see me hauling dirt indoors in November!

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made. After that, it’s time to get to ‘work’—although, I’m not sure, I can really call it that. For me, the things I do each day feel more like a mix of tinkering, creating, and a good dose of just plain enjoying life. It’s hard to call it work when every project is something I look forward to, whether it’s working in the workshop, jotting down a new story, or getting my hands dirty in the garden.

I suppose that’s the beauty of doing what you love. You don’t watch the clock or count the hours. You just follow where the day takes you, and somehow, it all feels right. So here’s to another day of good food, good company, and good work that doesn’t feel like work at all.

You all have a great day, and may it be filled with just the right balance of work and a bit of simple enjoyment along the way. And if things start to feel a little too heavy, pause for a moment and let yourself take in the small comforts—a warm drink, a quiet moment, a glimpse of sunshine. Sometimes, it’s those little things that carry us through. GW

Hi folks, a while back, I wrote a post about what we might expect for the cold season here in Northern Ontario, but with all the signs pointing to a more intense winter than usual, I thought it was worth another look.

As the days get shorter and there’s more frost on the ground each morning, we know winter isn’t far off. Now, I could tell you what the weather folks are predicting, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that nature has a way of telling us what’s coming, long before we hear it on the news.

You just have to look around.

What the Animals Are Telling Us

I’ve been watching the squirrels this year, and let me tell you, they’re hustling like I haven’t seen in a while. They’re packing away food faster than ever, even those stubborn little chipmunks around my garden. In my experience, when the critters get busy like this, it usually means one thing: a cold, hard winter. Those little guys seem to know we’ll be getting our fair share of snow and cold, and they’re making sure they’re ready for it.

And the birds—well, they packed up and left pretty early this fall, in big groups, too. When the geese take off that fast, it’s nature’s way of saying, “Buckle up. Winter’s coming in full force.” They don’t wait around if they know it’s going to be tough here. If the birds are leaving early, we’d better start thinking about battening down the hatches ourselves.

Trees and Plants Giving Their Clues

The trees have a way of telling us what’s coming, too. The evergreens around here are as thick as I’ve seen them in a while, almost like they’re bundling up for what’s ahead. And if you look closely, some of the older trees have rougher bark this year, which isn’t something I take lightly. It’s like the trees themselves are putting on another layer to protect against the cold.

Even the maple and oak leaves seem to be hanging on longer this fall. It’s like they know they’ll be buried under a heavy load of snow before too long, and they’re taking their time letting go.

Early Frost and Heavy Dew – Cold Signs All Around

I’ll tell you, we had some pretty thick frost early on this year. That frost isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s a warning that the ground’s cooling off quicker than usual. When that happens, it usually means we’re in for a deeper freeze come winter. And the morning dew has been heavier than normal too—nature’s way of saying there’s more moisture in the air, which probably means more snow.

What We Can Expect

So, here’s my take, based on what nature’s telling me: get ready for a good, old-fashioned Northern Ontario winter. We’re probably looking at colder temperatures, maybe even a few long stretches of real bitter cold, and more snow than we’ve seen in a while. It’ll be one of those winters where we’ll all have to keep the shovels handy and make sure the woodpile’s well stocked.

If you ask me, here’s what to do:

1. Get Ready Now: Follow the squirrels’ lead—get your supplies together, stock the pantry, and have a backup plan for those cold snaps.
2. Check the House: Make sure the place is sealed up tight. Cold drafts have a way of sneaking in during winters like the one that seems to be headed our way.
3. Embrace It: Winters like this can make for some good stories by the fire, so let’s enjoy what’s coming our way.

So, if you’ve got a gut feeling this winter’s going to be one for the books, you’re probably right. Nature’s been giving us the signs for months now, and they’re hard to ignore. Here’s to a season of braving the cold, watching the snow fall, and making the most of these long winter days here in the north.

Stay warm, everyone! And don’t sell them Snowmobiles just yet. GW

Click on image to enlarge!

My Wife’s Vision In a Painting

Good Morning, from the quiet north, where the views are priceless, and the Wi-Fi is… well, let’s just say I rely on coffee more than Google.

Starting things off, the weather today is a mixed bag of northern charm—rain mingling with snow, temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F), and a chill north wind reminding us who’s in charge. There’s even a chance of some flurries to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of day that makes you grateful for hot coffee, thick socks, and a sturdy roof overhead.

Highway 522 is quiet for now, but things are bound to pick up as we get closer to the weekend. Lots of hunters are making their way into the area, and that’s okay—as it adds a little excitement to our usual peace and quiet. Besides, it’s the one time of year when the deer start looking both ways before crossing! For the rest of us, it’s a chance to watch the local diners fill up, and maybe swap a few tall tales over coffee.

On another note, yesterday was a busy one here at my desk. I spent most of the day working away on the computer, made a few YouTube videos, and even found time to tinker around in the woodworking shop. Later on, my wife and I handed out candy to the kids for Halloween—a fun way to wrap up the day. All in all, not a bad day’s work (and a bit of play)!

My lovely wife now, well she has been setting up her new art studio for the past few weeks, preparing to step fully into her own creative world. For years, much like myself, she’s been a storyteller—only her stories aren’t told with words but with paint. She’s spent much of her career creating custom pieces, pouring her talent into bringing others’ visions to life. Now, though, she’s decided it’s time to paint from her own inspiration, and I couldn’t be more excited for her.

She’s self-taught, and her work has touched people around the world, finding homes in places near and far. Watching her bring a blank canvas to life is like watching a novel take shape—each stroke adds depth, each color another layer. She’s truly remarkable, and I feel lucky to witness her creativity firsthand. I can’t wait to see what she’ll create next—no doubt it’ll be a story worth waiting for.

If you’re in the area come spring, be sure to drop by and see what she’s been working on. I have a feeling it’ll be something special.

As for me, well, with another wet and cool day outside, I’ll be staying in, working away at my computer. It’s nice knowing that all my outdoor projects are wrapped up, giving me the freedom to settle in for some writing. I’ll be editing videos I made over the summer, creating a few new ones of me reading stories, and maybe even tackling that mystery sci-fi novel I started last year but haven’t yet finished. Either way, the day’s shaping up to be a full one, that’s for sure.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, along with a good, strong cup of tea. There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm meal prepared by someone who knows exactly how you like your eggs—and, most importantly, just the right splash of milk in the tea. It’s these little morning rituals that fuel the day’s creativity…and keep me from getting distracted by the fridge every fifteen minutes!

You all have a great day, and remember—it’s the simple things that make life rich. A warm meal, a cozy spot indoors on a chilly day, and the chance to do a little of what you love. I’ve learned over the years that it’s not always about big adventures or grand plans; sometimes, it’s about savoring the quiet, everyday moments. So take a little time today to enjoy what’s right in front of you. Life’s short, folks—might as well make the most of it. GW

Good Morning! You know, the best thing about a new day is you don’t need it all figured out to make it a good one. And I plan on doing just that.

It’s a cloudy morning here in the north. We had a light shower overnight, but it was sure nice outside temperature-wise. We slept with our bedroom window open, letting in that fresh northern air. You can’t beat that! When you do, your body takes in all the good stuff while resting, and you wake up with a clear mind and a body that feels mighty fine. That is, of course, if you’ve been looking after yourselves.

Tonight in Port Loring, the Halloween weather forecast reveals a spooky atmosphere! Expect temperatures around 16°C (61°F), feeling like 15°C (59°F), thanks to gusty southwest winds. Rain is highly likely, with a 100% chance and about 10 mm (0.4 inches) expected throughout the evening. As the night progresses, temperatures will drop to around 8°C (46°F). So, if you’re planning to venture out for some trick-or-treating, be sure to wear something warm and waterproof!

Highway 522 isn’t all that busy these days, but come the weekend, it’ll start buzzing with activity. The locals will be out and about, moving with purpose, as if they’ve got a prize to claim at the end of the road. And then the hunters will roll in, bringing along enough gear to stock a small store. Just remember, if you hear someone say they’re “hunting for dinner,” it might just mean they’re hoping to find a decent burger joint before heading home!

On another note, yesterday I spent some time working on my computer, but I also took advantage of the nice weather to clean up the remaining leaves that had fallen. It turned out to be a good choice; with the wind at my back, you could say cleaning them up was a breeze. All in all, it was a productive day—I got some work done at the computer, cleared the leaves, and even had time to enjoy a coffee with my lovely wife on the front porch, soaking up that much-needed vitamin D, which, of course, is the sunshine.

Today, well, we’ll see. I’m thinking I might clean up my woodworking shop and get it set up to make my wife a new pine harvest table. Or, I might just stay here at my computer and work on some stories for my columns. Or, ah hell, truth be told, I don’t really know what I’ll be doing. But I do know one thing: whatever I end up with, it’ll probably involve more coffee than actual progress. Just because I can.

With that, I’m off for breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me, and then I’ll get to doing… something. It’s one of those days, my friends.

That’s my two cents for the morning. Now, go out and make some meaningful memories. GW

Here is a picture, our small Tamarack

Click on image to enlarge!

Good Morning! You know over the years I have learned that: “The longer I live, the more I see life as one big experiment. Sometimes, it seems I get it right, while other times, I walk away knowing what not to do again.”

Looked outside this morning, everything’s white<>but it isn’t snow. Nope, it’s just a heavy frost covering things over. With temperatures hovering around freezing, though, I know it won’t be long before the real stuff shows up. That much is certain.

A few years ago, I planted a little Tamarack in the backyard. This morning, it caught my eye<>standing there, all golden, like it was saying, ‘Hey, look at me! The others dropped their leaves, but I’m still here, putting on a show. Soak it in while you can,’ it seemed to say, “because come winter, I’ll be gone till spring.” I think I’ll head out and snap a picture, just so you can see how beautiful it is. That little Tamarack’s putting on its best colors, and I’d hate for anyone to miss it before it disappears for the winter.

On another note, since the weather wasn’t great yesterday, I found myself at the computer, working on some new YouTube videos. I’ve got a couple ready to go, but I’m feeling the urge to try something totally different. So, here’s the thing: I’ve got over a thousand published stories, and folks have been asking where they can read or hear them. I’ve told them about my podcasts, but a lot of people say they’d love to see the face behind the stories, too.

That got me thinking<>and I’ll be putting a few together in the coming days. It takes a bit to get everything set up, but I’m figuring it out. If you’re one of those who enjoys my stories, keep an eye on my YouTube channel<>I think you’ll really enjoy what’s coming! Here is a link to it. https://www.youtube.com/@GeorgeSimplicityWisdom/about

Other than a bunch of hunters roaming around our woods these days, not too much happening around our small town.

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

Have a great day folks and remember: “Every sunrise is a new beginning<>make sure you chase after what matters.” GW

I took this picture just outside our front door early this morning!

Click on Image to Enlarge!

Good Morning! You know<>I have come to the conclusion that the universe is mighty big, no doubt about it, but if you ask me, the real marvels are in those little moments we let slip by, right under our noses.

Looking outside, getting out of bed this morning with the sun slowly climbing in the sky, it sure was a sight to see. Especially with it shinning through the trees. I have to say that Mother Nature is one fine artist. Makes me think about my wife and the way she can capture moments like that.

She’s a real artist, my wife<>none of this smudge-it-and-call-it-art stuff. She sees things most people miss. Not only that, but she doesn’t just paint what’s there; she paints what it feels like. She’ll catch a sunrise through the trees, the way a shadow sits, how the colors change, all of it. Some folks look and see just a tree; she looks and finds a story.

I watch her paint sometimes, and I can’t help but think she and Mother Nature are cut from the same cloth. They both know how to show the beauty that’s right in front of us<>if we’re paying attention, that is. She’s got a way of catching what makes a simple moment feel like something worth hanging onto.

So, yeah, it was just another morning here in the north. But between her and that sunrise, I feel pretty damn lucky to be here to see it.

Highway 522 has been pretty busy these days, as I’ve mentioned before. It’s mostly hunters moving into the area, looking for places to hunt. I used to hunt myself, but I can’t see myself sitting out in the cold bush anymore. Honestly, I’ve lost the rhythm for it<>if you know what I mean.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I get that putting meat in the freezer for winter is something a lot of folks need to do, and I can respect that. But for me? Well, let’s just say those days are behind me. The older I get, the more I appreciate what’s around me and prefer to let it be.

On another note, yesterday I spent the day in my woodworking shop. I figured it was time for a cleanup, since I hadn’t been putting things back where they belong over the past month.; You could say that things were all over the place, and that’s what happens when you’re a man of many talents and like to fix things yourself.

I also managed to fix up my old rototiller after ordering some makeshift parts on Amazon. They delivered right to my door, which is pretty nice when you live out here in the middle of nowhere. With a bit of ingenuity, I got it running and tilled up our vegetable garden. That’ll sure be nice come spring, especially with all the leaves I worked into the soil. I have to say, there’s nothing better than the smell, feel, and look of fresh-tilled soil. Let me tell you, it’s something special.

With that, I’m off for a bowl of shredded wheat for breakfast, thanks to my lovely wife. She’s also got a piece of toast ready with some fresh, good-tasting butter. Honestly, I could make a whole breakfast out of just toast and butter if I wanted to<>especially if it’s hot. There’s just something about it that hits the spot. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you wonder<>why you ever complicated things in the first place!

You all have a great day, enjoy the sunshine/ while it lasts, as a red sky in the morning sailers take warning, and remember: “Every day’s a blank page<>make sure to fill it with something worthwhile.” GW

Good Morning! You know I’ve spent years thinkin’ and wondering, but I’ve come to realize <> some of the best things in life can’t be explained, just felt.

Looking out this morning, it’s one of those dark and gloomy days here in the north. It seems like we’ll get some rain off and on as the day rolls along. And, with the season starting to shift, we might just hear a rumble of thunder or catch a flash of lightning for good measure, <> but, it’s that time of year when you never quite know what the weather’s got in store for us. Expect the unexpected, as they say.

On another note, the past few days have kept me busy, wrapping up those last-minute jobs with winter just around the corner. This year, though, I’m happy to say I’ve just about got everything squared away. I even managed to gather up most of the leaves and spread them over the garden, tilling them in nicely. That soil’s going to be primed and ready come spring, let me tell ya.

Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing <> as my old rototiller decided to give me a bit of grief, but I’m in the middle of fixing it now. Truth told, she’s been with me for over 40 years, so I can’t complain much. Hell, at my age, I’ve got a few issues of my own, so I can’t expect more from her than I can from myself, now can I?

Highway 522’s been busy with hunters, or more like “wannabe hunters,” wandering around. Mix them in with the locals <> and it’s like watching a slow-motion race of trucks, ATVs, and trailers creeping along, everyone eyeing up the best spots. The locals, though, well, they aren’t in much of a rush, as simply put <> they know the best places to be are nowhere near all the fuss!

Today, as I mentioned, I’ve got my old rototiller to tinker with. And with the gloomy skies and cold creeping in, my old woodworking shop is looking more and more like the place to be. Won’t be long before I’ll be firing up the shop stove. But that’s okay, as after cleaning up the bush around the house, I’ve got enough wood to keep it toasty for the next three years. Goes to show ya, cleaning things up once in a while pays off. If nothing else, you find out what you’ve got that you didn’t even know was there!

With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and will then see what the day has on her plate. One never really knows.

You all have a great day, and remember, folks! Most of the time, the best things in life <> are right outside your door. It’s the little moments/things that often bring the most joy, patently waiting for us to take notice. GW

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A Glimpse of our property. Pretty nice!

Click on image to enlarge!!

Good Morning Folks! You know, If you stop to think about it, the world’s full of mysteries we’ll never fully understand. And maybe<>that’s exactly how it should be.

You know, for those who aren’t here with us in the North, you’re missing quite the day. The temperature? Perfect. The sun? Well, it’s showing off, doing what it was born to do. And those leaves <> honestly, they’re putting on a performance so good, even the finest artists would pack up their easels and call it a day. My wife and I often sit back on days like this and think we’re pretty lucky to have what we have. Hardly any people around, meaning plenty of space to stretch the ol’ elbows, and the air? Let’s just say it’s the kind that makes your lungs think they’ve gone on vacation.

Highway 522 was buzzing yesterday with hunters pouring into the area. Truth be told, I haven’t seen so many in years. Maybe there are a lot of folks out there needing to fill the freezer, or<> maybe they’re just craving a taste of what Mother Nature’s been offering up lately. Meanwhile, the locals are out and about, taking in the action, as they always do <> whether they’re watching what’s happening, or what’s already been done. In other words, just another day in small-town living, where sometimes the biggest excitement is seeing what your neighbors are up to.

On another note, <> yesterday, I finally got around to cleaning up the bush closest to our home. Oh, there’s still a wee bit left to tackle, but for now, it’s looking mighty fine. It’s funny how a task that’s lingered in my mind for years can finally get done <> and without the universe falling apart! Along the way, I also split and stacked some of those old logs I had lying around. All in all, a day well spent.

Today’s plan? I’m tilling up our vegetable gardens and will then get to planting a row of garlic for next year, <> might as well make the most of this fine weather while it lasts. Nothing worse than wasting a good day when Mother Nature’s handing them out for free.

With that, I am off for some pancakes that my lovely wife is making for me <> along with a cup of hot cocoa, which will give me the energy that is needed to get me through the morning. The old saying that breakfast is the main meal of the day <> still holds true with me.

You all have a great day, folks and don’t forget to take a moment today, to appreciate the little things <>like the way the sun hits the leaves on the trees. While they last that is! GW