George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

From the Porch to the Page: A Life Built in Sentences on June 18/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. I’ve found that the stories worth telling always leave a little silence around them.

So starting things off with this… Looking outside, it seems to be shaping up to be a nice day here in Cottage Country.

Today – Wednesday, June 18:
It’s sittin’ around 62°F (16°C) this morning, with mostly cloudy skies. Feels calm and kind of gentle out there. If the clouds behave, we might hit a high of 78°F (26°C) later on. There’s a slight chance of a sprinkle this afternoon, but nothin’ much to worry about if you’ve got things to do outdoors.

Tonight:
It’ll stay mostly cloudy and mild. Temperature should dip down to about 60°F (16°C), which is still decent for sleepin’ with the windows cracked. Might get a touch of light rain, but again, not much of it.

Tomorrow – Thursday, June 19:
Cooler air’s blowin’ in come morning, and it’ll be breezy for a spell. High should land somewhere around 71°F (22°C), which is still good workin’ weather. Rain’s supposed to roll in off and on through the day, so best to plan around it if you’ve got anything you need to keep dry. Overnight, we’re lookin’ at a low of 56°F (13°C).

Highway 522’s got a bit more traffic these days, but it’s still moving slow.
Not sure if it’s the shaky economy, or maybe folks just aren’t wandering as far from home this year. Could be all of it, could be none of it. Hard to pin down.

Still, every now and then, you see a camper roll through, which tells us summers still trying to find us here in the north.

Bug Report:
Well, the black flies have pretty well-packed up and left us for another year, thank goodness. But just as one pest moves out, another moves in. The deer flies are wide awake now, and let me tell you, they don’t mess around.

Once one finds you, well, that’s it, as they circle, they hover, and they just don’t take the hint. And if you stand still too long, they’ll settle in and take a bite big enough to make you take notice. Not exactly what you’d call a pleasant experience.

That’s where my old hat earns its keep. Been swatting bugs with it for years, and it still does the trick.

But truth be told, even with a few deer flies buzzing about, things are pretty good these days here in the north. Warm sun, green trees, and enough quiet to think, can’t complain too much.

On another note, my wife and I decided to head on into North Bay yesterday to pick up some supplies and a few odds and ends. We got what we needed, and, as it usually goes, a little more than we planned.

Afterward, we treated ourselves to a pizza and a cold iced tea over at East Side Mario’s. Sat there for a spell, just enjoying the food and each other’s company. It’s funny how a simple meal, when shared with the right person, can feel like the best part of the whole day.

Then before heading home, we stopped by a little coffee shop in town for a hot cup to go, then made our way back home, soaking in what nature had to offer.

And there’s plenty to notice if you take the time to look, with the wildflowers blooming in the ditches, birds circling overhead, and the lakes catching the last bit of sunlight like they’re holding onto something important.

We’ve also been seeing a lot of new folks moving into the area, buying up properties here and there. Seems to be the trend lately. Some are looking for peace and quiet, or for a fresh start. Either way, the north has a way of drawing people in, and I can’t rightly say I blame them.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with the weather looking pretty good. I figure I’ll spend some time cleaning up our woodworking shop. I’ve been out there quite a bit lately working on things, and it’s gotten a bit messy, sawdust everywhere, tools scattered, and off-cuts piled up here and there.

But I’ve always said, a clean shop’s alright, but a messy one means things are getting done. I’ve seen plenty of woodworking shops in my day, and some of them are so clean, you’d swear no one ever lifted a hammer.

To me, they are more for show. Give me a bench covered in shavings, a few boards stacked against the wall, and the smell of fresh-cut wood in the air. That’s a real shop.

Still, I do like to keep mine in decent shape, at least tidy enough that I don’t waste half the morning lookin’ for my tape measure.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife’s made for me, then I’ll be heading outside with a hot cup of Barry’s Tea in hand. It’s a fine-tasting tea if you like something smooth and full of flavor. If you’ve never tried it, I’d say give it a go—they carry it at Metro. You won’t be disappointed.

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

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

Cholesterol What it means

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

You know, somewhere along the line, cholesterol got painted as the villain. Turn on the TV or open a magazine, and you would think it is the root of all evil, blamed for heart attacks, strokes, and everything in between. But the more I have looked into it, and the more I have listened to folks who are not just pushing pills or fear, the more I have come to believe there is no such thing as bad cholesterol or good cholesterol. There is just cholesterol, and we need it.

I learned this the hard way. Years ago, I was told things would only get better if I started taking one of those cholesterol-lowering drugs. At the time, I believed what they told me. “Precautionary measures, George, it’s in your best interest.” But was it?

Now in saying that, it did lower my cholesterol, that much was true, but not without a cost. After a short while, every bone in my body ached. I could not even lift my arms over my head. That pain was constant, so I started looking into it myself and sure enough, all those symptoms I was feeling were listed right there as side effects of the drug I was on. Once I saw that, I spoke with my doctor, and he said it was up to me if I wanted to stop. That was all I needed to hear. I took myself off the drug and, little by little, things started to get better.

What sticks with me most from that time is how, right from the beginning, something deep inside me told me it was wrong. My gut, my body, and my mind were trying to warn me. And still, I pushed those feelings aside and trusted what I was told. Looking back, I know now I should have listened to myself. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to learn from some pretty sharp and insightful people since then. These days, I listen to the instructions that come from within, and I don’t question them.

With cholesterol still on my mind, I asked myself what I could do to really support my health. That is when I learned that cholesterol is the raw material the body uses, with the help of sunshine on our skin, to make vitamin D. That made sense to me. So I decided to do what felt right. I started getting outside more, soaking up the sunshine, staying active, and feeding my body the best food I could find. I let Nature take the lead. And it worked.

I was not always sure how to explain this clearly to others. I had started to write something myself, but then a friend of mine, a smart doctor who does not follow the crowd, sent me an article he wrote. After reading it, I thought this says it better than I ever could. So I asked if I could include it in one of my books. He agreed without hesitation.

What Allan wrote made sense to me, and I think it might to you too. It is written in plain English, and it does not try to sell you anything. It just lays out the truth as he sees it, and I happen to agree with him.

So here it is, from Allan himself. Have a read, and next time someone tells you to fear your cholesterol, maybe give this another look and think it over for yourself.

“Bad” Cholesterol: The Unknown Heart Healer
by Allan Lawry
Originally published in HANS e-News,

If you think that “bad” or “high” cholesterol contributes to heart disease, you have been deceived by those marketing a mythical disease.

The so-called “bad” or LDL cholesterol is actually part of a natural healing process designed for repairing damaged arteries in your body. This damage is usually caused by inflammation and oxidation. Oxidation causes nicks and cuts on the inside walls of the arteries and leads to inflammation, much like a cut on the outside of your skin. This then sets into motion the body’s healing process. LDL cholesterol has many roles, and one of them is to help heal by forming a waxy “scab” over these cuts. That scab, often called plaque, protects the arterial wall and gives it time to heal from within, while still allowing blood to flow.

It is up to us to supply our bodies with the right ingredients for healing and to build healthy arteries that last a lifetime.

The myths about cholesterol need to be cleared up. Many studies show that people with high cholesterol live longer and suffer fewer heart problems than those with low cholesterol. Other research shows that eating fatty foods high in cholesterol has little or no effect on blood cholesterol levels.

As Dr. Ron Rosedale puts it, “There is only one cholesterol. There is no such thing as good or bad cholesterol.” LDL and HDL are not cholesterol, they are lipoproteins — transport vehicles for cholesterol, which the body needs.

Years ago, mainstream medicine noticed that people with heart disease had higher LDL levels. From that, they guessed that LDL must be the problem. But what they missed was that LDL shows up to patch the damage. It is the body’s attempt to heal, not harm.

It has since come to light that some of the researchers pushing to lower LDL were funded by the same companies making cholesterol-lowering drugs. In fact, over the past few decades, the so-called “safe” cholesterol levels have been lowered several times, not based on new science, but based on the financial interest of drugmakers.

Dr. Uffe Ravnskov, a respected cholesterol researcher, was once asked if lowering cholesterol through diet, drugs, or therapy made sense. He answered, “Absolutely not. This kind of treatment is meaningless, costly, and has transformed millions of healthy people into patients.”

Statins — the most common class of cholesterol-lowering drugs — have become a $29 billion global industry. They work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol. But lowering cholesterol this way goes against what years of research now shows. It is not in your best interest to lower your cholesterol.

Cholesterol is essential for life. It helps transport fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. It supports the brain, builds hormones, and plays a key role in the immune system and healing.

If you want to protect yourself from cardiovascular disease, the focus should be on lowering inflammation and oxidation. This means avoiding refined carbs, processed oils, and artificial sweeteners. Instead, eat natural foods, get regular exercise, spend time outdoors, and get plenty of sunshine for natural vitamin D. You can also ask your doctor to test for inflammation markers like C-reactive protein, homocysteine, insulin, and blood acidity.

Research shows the fats we should be avoiding are not from eggs or butter, but from processed and overheated oils — margarine, vegetable oils, trans fats, and anything fried. These oxidized fats create free radicals in the body, which lead to inflammation, oxidation, and eventually, damage to the arteries. That is the real cause of heart disease.

So the next time you hear an ad telling you to lower your cholesterol, take a step back and think about who is really benefiting. Your health is more important than their marketing.

I wish you all the best in your search for better health.

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

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

Maybe It’s Time We Got Back to the Old Way of Living

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.


By GW

It really does make you wonder, doesn’t it? All this modern medicine, all these pills for everything under the sun, and yet more folks seem sick and tired than ever before. If you ask me, maybe we’re not missing some miracle cure. Maybe we just forgot how to live with nature instead of trying to outrun it.

Back when I was younger, and definitely in my parents’ time here in Ontario, we didn’t run off to the doctor for every little thing. Truth is, most folks couldn’t even afford to if they wanted to. You got a cut, you cleaned it. Got a cold, you rested. There were broths and teas, homemade salves, and a whole lot of common sense. It wasn’t perfect, no, but folks were stronger, and they sure didn’t depend on pills to get through the day.

Now it feels like the first thing we do is reach for medicine. You’ve got an ache, there’s a pill for that. Can’t sleep, there’s another one. And then there’s the pill to handle the side effects from the first two. It just keeps going.

Now, I’m not saying all medicine is bad. There’s good stuff out there that has helped a lot of people. But it’s gotten out of hand. You know, our bodies know how to heal if we let it. The thing is it just needs time, rest, and the right fuel. Instead, we throw chemicals at every symptom and wonder why we’re still not feeling right.

And it’s not just the medicine. These days, we scrub everything down with disinfectants, trying to kill off every last germ. We’ve got soaps, sprays, hand gels, even wipes for wiping the wipes. Some folks won’t even touch a doorknob without a tissue. But our bodies were never meant to be kept in a bubble. A bit of dirt never hurt, in fact, it helped build our strength. Over-cleaning everything, especially our skin and homes, throws off our natural balance. The same goes for what we’re using on the land. You drive down the road and smell the sprays drifting through the air, weed killers, bug killers, brush control. It’s everywhere. And it’s not just outside. Those chemicals get into our food, our water, and into us.

The worst part is, nobody’s asking what caused the problem in the first place anymore. It’s all about covering it up, masking it, keeping the machine running. But our bodies aren’t machines. They’re living systems. And like any good system, if you overwhelm it long enough, it will start to break down.

I really believe we’d be better off if we brought some of the old ways back. Growing your own food, eating what’s in season, moving your body every day. Not at a gym, but doing something real. Getting outside, chopping wood, walking fence lines, or just being part of the land. Sleeping when you’re tired. Letting your immune system do what it was built to do without stepping in to stop it at every turn. Getting out in the sun for Vitamin D3, very important, And giving your body the space to sort itself out now and then.

It’s not complicated. It’s just honest, and it’s the way folks lived for generations before all this modern noise/medicine showed up.

So maybe it’s time to slow down. Pay attention to what we’re eating, what we’re thinking, and what we’re trusting to heal us. Not everything needs a label or a prescription. Sometimes, what we need most is already right here, in the soil, in the kitchen, or just in giving ourselves a little more care, the way the old folks did.

Just something that’s been on my mind.

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

George's Writers Corner

What’s Happening in Canada: A Closer Look

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

We’ve been hearing, and I have been chatting a lot, about tariffs lately and how they’re supposedly a threat to our country. But if we take a step back and look closely, there’s more to the story than meets the eye. More businesses are recognizing the benefits of operating in Canada, signaling that we’re becoming more self-sufficient. Companies are seeing the value in investing locally and supporting our economy. Which is a good thing.

The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) is a prime example of this growth. With over 400 new job openings across the province, the demand for local employment and services is rising, showing how businesses are adapting to the changing landscape.

So, what’s the takeaway here? While U.S. tariffs and trade policies can create challenges, they’re also pushing us to build resilience. These hurdles force us to rethink our strategies and come back stronger.

So here’s my take on things. Instead of focusing on the negatives, maybe it’s time to acknowledge what we’ve actually achieved, rather than just criticizing the U.S. We’ve been through a lot, and after years of governments falling short, people were desperate to get back on their feet. Now, here we are in Canada, staring down another election, and it feels like we’re about to leap right back into the fire. Watching it all unfold is tough—really tough. It’s baffling how some folks can’t see what’s right in front of them. It makes me shake my head in disbelief. We’ve walked this road before, and it’s a hard one to tread again.

The truth is, the choices we make as voters will shape the future, and it’s frustrating to feel like the lessons of the past still haven’t been learned.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Who’s Really Owning Canada Now?

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Just a heads-up — these are my own thoughts based on what I’ve seen and experienced. I’m sharing them to get people thinking and talking, not to say I’ve got all the answers.

There’s something going on across this country that more people need to start paying attention to. It’s been happening quietly, without much fuss or fanfare, but it’s changing the landscape of Canada in a way that should concern every one of us. Foreign money, and a lot of it, is buying up this country … not just a little here and there, but in large, sweeping ways that reach into our towns, our cities, and even our farmland.

Over the past few decades, wealthy investors and corporations from overseas have been pouring their money into Canada. They’re not just buying vacation homes or the odd condo. They’re buying major retail chains, malls, commercial buildings, and farmland. Many of them have built their fortunes far away, often in industries that would never pass the smell test here, and now they’re shifting that wealth into Canadian soil and Canadian infrastructure.

They come in quietly, usually through numbered companies or shell corporations set up right here at home, which means most of the time, you won’t even know it’s foreign-owned. But if you follow the money trail, you’ll often find it ends up overseas. What looks like a Canadian business might just be a holding tank for foreign investors, with profits flowing right out of the country.

Farmland is one of the big targets. In some provinces, there are laws that claim to limit foreign ownership, but in practice those rules are full of holes. Land can be bought under different names or through local partners, and once it’s purchased, there’s no guarantee it will be farmed properly or cared for by people who live on it. What was once a working family farm might now be a silent investment for someone who has never stepped foot on Canadian soil.

The real estate situation is just as troubling. Housing prices have gone through the roof in places across the country, and young Canadians are being pushed out of the markets they grew up in. Homes are being snapped up not as places to live, but as investments to park money. Some sits empty for months or even years. Meanwhile, families are struggling to find decent places to rent, let alone buy.

The same thing is happening in retail. Iconic Canadian brands that used to anchor our communities have been sold off, dismantled, or replaced by new operations funded with foreign capital. These businesses might set up shop in our towns, but they don’t build lasting relationships with the people living there. They fill their shelves with imported goods, keep wages low, and design stores for speed, not for connection or community. It becomes less about serving the neighbourhood and more about owning square footage and extracting whatever profit they can.

I want to be clear that this isn’t about pointing fingers at people who come to Canada to build a better life. Immigration has shaped this country and should continue to do so. But what I’m talking about here isn’t about people … it’s about power. And that power is being quietly handed over to foreign interests who are not here to live with us, but to profit from us. That’s not immigration. That’s ownership.

We’ve let it happen because our laws allow it. Our politicians avoid the topic because it makes them uncomfortable or costs them votes. The media rarely digs into it because it’s not flashy enough for headlines, or it risks offending major advertisers. So it continues in the background, quietly changing who owns what, and who controls the future of this country.

If we don’t speak up and take a hard look at where things are headed, we might soon find ourselves as guests in our own backyard. And once we give up ownership, it’s very hard to get it back.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

A Few Thoughts on Selling a Home in the North

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Living up north, you really learn to see things differently, and that includes what makes a home special. Folks often dream of a lakefront spot, and sure, those can be mighty pretty. But I’ve learned the real gems up here aren’t always right by the water. Sometimes, the best places, the ones that truly fill you with peace, are tucked away a bit further in, where it’s just you and the quiet.

When I talk about a well-kept home with a bit of land and some calm, I’m talking about a feeling, not just a location. It’s about having your own space, where the wind in the trees becomes your music and the stars shine so bright it feels like you could reach out and touch them. And the best part is, you can often find these spots just a short walk from the lake. Being close by means you still get that peace at home, and you can wander down for a paddle, a dip, or to catch the sunset whenever the mood strikes. It’s the best of both worlds. You have your own quiet haven, and the water is never far away.

I’ve been around these parts for a good number of years, and I’ve seen how the home market moves. What stands out is how steady some places are. It’s not just about what the headlines say, whether prices are rising or falling. It’s about finding that place that feels like it was made for you. A home that’s been cared for, with space to breathe and the kind of quiet you only find up here, is worth something. Always has been.

In our neck of the woods, that kind of peace has never gone out of style. And it seems to me the north follows its own rhythm when it comes to what makes a good home. Whether it’s perched above a lake or nestled in a quiet clearing just a walkaway, the true value lies in how it makes you feel.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Father’s Day on June 15/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. I dreamt a whole Blog Post last night. Damn shame, I only remember the part about the pancakes and the sun.

Looking out, right here, from my desk window, where all the magic happens, it seems our day is shaping up to be downright nice. At the moment, there’s plenty of sunshine and hardly a breath of wind, the kind of morning that makes a fellow truly appreciate living in the country.

Weather for us today here in Port Loring, Ontario, Canada.

Today – Sunday, June 15 (Father’s Day): Right now it’s sitting around 58 °F (15 °C) and the sun is working its way through the morning sky. We’re on track for a beautiful Father’s Day, with a high of 77 °F (25 °C)

Tonight: Skies will stay mostly clear through the evening, cooling down to about 50 °F (10 °C). A light sweater might be a good idea if you’re stepping out, but otherwise it’ll be a peaceful, quiet night.

Tomorrow – Monday, June 16: No rain on the radar. It’ll be a mix of sun and cloud through the day, starting off around 59 °F (15 °C) in the morning and climbing to about 80 °F (27 °C) by afternoon. It will feel like a good day to be outdoors, whether you’re getting work done or just soaking up what summer has to offer.

Highway 522 got busier yesterday, mostly locals just going about their business. And a good bunch of them stopped by our garage sale. That’s small-town life for ya …everyone’s out and about, bumping into folks they know and maybe a few they don’t, and stopping to chat a bit. It’s like a slow dance where nobody’s in a hurry and the main event is just catching up on the local gossip.

Well, once again, other than a few mosquitoes and a couple of deer flies, things are pretty good out there these days. But like I always say, from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day is blackfly season ’round here, and today being Father’s Day, there’s hardly one to be found. At least not near our place.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away taking care of customers at our garage sale, and I have to tell you, we had a steady stream of folks dropping by and picking up all sorts of things. On top of that, our gift shop saw a great day too, with plenty of people snagging some of our one-of-a-kind items, all on sale for half price—who could blame them? Plus, people were in a friendly mood, swapping stories and filling the air with good conversation.

And don’t forget, we’ll keep our garage sale going right through the end of July at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario. We’re open from 10 to 4 every day. After July, the garage sale winds down, but our small gift shop stays open until fall, also from 10 to 4. Just like every other year, we’ll be here for you.

So what are you up to on Father’s Day, GW?

Well, I suspect that most fathers might be taking the day off, but I’ve got a mind to stain the deck that wraps around our small cottage, the one we use for friends and family. After that, some time sitting on our swing under the old basswood tree sounds about right, maybe with a coffee or two to enjoy. Hmm, I might even try something different today, we’ll see how that pans out.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me. It’ll be some pancakes covered with grass-fed butter and a touch of syrup, topped off with raspberries and a few blueberries. Keeps things all healthy, right? Well, at least the fruit part does.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather

Weather Outlook for Port Loring Ontario

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A lot of folks these days use apps to find out what the weather is going to be these days. Simply because it’s easier. But for me? That’s another story. I still watch the sky, listen to the frogs, watch the dragon flies and walk the property to see what the land’s telling me. And lately, it’s been speaking loud and clear… wet ground, full creeks, and frogs singing their hearts out. That’s a sure sign it’s been wetter than normal now that we are into June.

But something’s shifting. The air’s got that warm weight to it some mornings, and the sun’s got more sting than it did a couple of weeks back. I figure a hot stretch might finally be working its way north.

Come the end of June and Canada Day, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a string of days in the high 80s, maybe even flirting with 90°F. Nights’ll be sticky, and unless a storm rolls through, the air’ll feel thick from dawn to dusk. It won’t hit all at once, but the heat’s building slow and steady.

So after a good soaking season, which was needed, we’re likely heading into a dry, hot run. We might not get much in the way of soaking rain, just quick downpours or thunderstorms here and there. Best to keep the garden deep-watered, mulch where you can, and keep an eye on the plants.

So for us here in Port Loring:

  • The rain’s been generous, but the tables are turning.
  • Watch for more heat heading into July.
  • And like always, listen close to nature, she will let you know what’s next.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Where the Future Walks Through the Past on June 14/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. Some mornings feel borrowed, like you’ve been gifted time from an old friend. This is one of ’em.

Well, looking out my window here by my desk, it sure feels like we’re in for a good one. The kind of day that starts out soft and slow, with a sky that’s clear enough to lift your spirits before you’ve even had your second cup of coffee.

The sun’s already working its way across the yard, casting long shadows off the fence posts and making the grass look just a little greener. It’s sittin’ at a comfortable 78°F, which is about 26°C for those who like their numbers that way. There’s a light breeze out of the southwest, just enough to rustle the lilacs and keep the blackflies guessing.

Tonight’ll be calm and clear, cooling off to around 58°F, or 14°C, which means good sleeping weather if you’ve got the windows open and a quilt at the foot of the bed. And tomorrow, well, it’s shaping up to be a fine one too. They’re calling for 82°F (28°C) and sunny, so if you’ve got outdoor chores piling up like we do, it might be a good time to cross a few things off the list.

One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, traffic wise. But then again, we do live off the beaten track, where not too many folks come pokin’ around until the weather starts to cooperate, which by the looks of things is about to happen with summer now just around the corner.

That said, I’ve noticed more and more new faces showing up these past couple of years. A lot of folks have been packing up and heading north, and honestly, I can’t say I blame them. When you look at what’s going on in the world, or more to the point in the big cities, it starts to make sense. Crime is climbing, houses are being built so close together you could almost shake hands with your neighbor while sipping your morning coffee, and the air down there is thick with things I won’t even get into. Let’s just say it’s no wonder so many folks are walking around with allergies and sniffles they can’t quite explain.

And the crowds, damn! The last time we took a trip down south, it was a full-time job just trying to sort out all the different nationalities bustling around. It’s something to see how much our country has changed. I’m not saying change is always bad, but if I’m being honest, I don’t believe it’s all been for the better.

Bug Report

Well, I’m happy to say most of the blackflies have left us for another year. And with this stretch of warmer weather settling in, them blood-sucking parasites we call mosquitoes might not be too bad either. They’re not fans of the heat, mostly because they’re so small, the sun dries them out and finishes them off pretty quick.

Now in the shade, that’s a different story. One still has to be careful come evening, especially if the doors or windows are open. They’ll sneak their way into the house, and once they’re in, well… when it’s time to sleep, they can sure be irritating.

We picked up one of those bug zappers and set it on the kitchen table. Before heading to bed, we switch it on and let it draw them in. Keeps them off us while we sleep. Works slick too. The thing is, living in the country, you learn quick that you’ve got to be on your toes, whether it’s bugs, weather, or something unexpected showing up at your back door.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I had a lot going on, so we didn’t get around to making a morning post here on the blog. We get a few of those days now and then, days when there’s so much on the to-do list, there just aren’t enough hours to get through it all.

But that being said, we still managed to knock off the things we had planned, and on top of that, we had quite a few folks stop by, picking up things from our garage sale. We’re keeping it going every weekend right through to the end of July.

We sold a fair bit yesterday, but there’s still plenty left, and like I always say, my wife and I don’t know where it all came from. It’s simply amazing how much a person can collect over the years without realizing it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning on working outdoors, as there’s a few things around the house that need tending to. And with the sun shining the way it is, I sure don’t want to be stuck inside.

On top of that, our little gift shop is open for the season now, and between that and all the garage sale items we’ve got set out, there’s plenty to keep us busy. But truth be told, we enjoy it. Especially this time of year, when the days are warm, and folks start getting out and about again.

It’s a good kind of busy, though. The kind where the work feels more like a day well spent.

So with that, I’m off to have breakfast my little woman’s made for me, then I’ll head on out to the front porch with a nice cup of hot cocoa and take in the view of our beautiful piece of property. Sure is a sight to see this time of year.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Why Does Quebec Get All the Juice?

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By GW

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

June 12, 2025

So here’s the thing. Every time I turn around, there’s another big, shiny energy announcement coming out of Quebec. A new deal. A fresh agreement. Millions, sometimes even billions, changing hands. This time, it’s Newfoundland and Labrador shaking hands with Hydro-Québec, working out what they call a “genuine partnership” over Churchill Falls and new hydro projects up in Labrador. And the rest of us are left wondering, how come Ontario and the western provinces aren’t part of these kinds of headlines?

It’s not like we don’t have the rivers. It’s not like we lack the brains or the hands to do the work. So why does it always seem like the money and the power, both kinds, flow east and stop at Quebec?

Let’s back up a bit.

Decades ago, Quebec made a major push into hydroelectric development. In the 60s and 70s, they built an empire of dams and transmission lines through James Bay, often at great cost to Indigenous communities and untouched wilderness. But it gave them something nobody else had at the time, energy independence, and a whole lot of export power. Today, Hydro-Québec is one of the largest hydroelectric utilities in the world. They sell clean energy to the northeastern United States, and they use those profits to fund more projects, more infrastructure, and more influence.

Meanwhile, Ontario shut down coal, which was the right call for the environment, but instead of building new public hydro projects, we chased private energy contracts. A little wind here, some solar there, a few natural gas plants, and all the while our electricity bills kept climbing. So…where was the long-term plan? Where were the made-in-Ontario projects that could feed our own grid, and put money back into our communities?

And out west? Alberta has oil and gas, sure, but even there, the rivers are waiting. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia all have hydro potential. Manitoba Hydro does sell some power to the States, but you don’t hear about billion-dollar deals or sweeping national partnerships coming out of there. You don’t hear about Ottawa investing the same way it does in Quebec.

And that’s the heart of it, federal funding.

Ottawa has a long history of putting big money behind Quebec’s energy projects. They call it nation-building or climate action or green infrastructure, but somehow the dollars keep flowing in one direction. It’s not that Quebec doesn’t deserve support. They’ve done the work. But so have we, and we’re still waiting for equal footing.

So if you’re sitting and asking why your province isn’t getting its fair share of clean energy investment, you’re not imagining things. It’s a mix of political priorities, historical ties, and where the spotlight tends to land.

But here’s something I’ve learned from a lifetime on the land: if you wait around for someone else to hand you a solution, you’ll be waiting a long time. Maybe it’s time Ontario and the western provinces stopped waiting. Maybe it’s time we built our own energy future, in our own way, with our own people, on our own land. We’ve got the water. We’ve got the know-how. Now we need the will, and a government that looks past the St. Lawrence.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Upside of Tariffs For us In Canada

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By GW

You know, I’ve been saying for a while now that these tariffs, while they might seem like a bumpy road at first, could actually be a good thing for us here in Canada. And reading about a Canadian metal company, it feels like a real “aha!” moment. Here’s a business, sixty years in the making, worried about the impact of these heavy U.S. tariffs, only to find their sales actually climbing. The sales manager really hit the nail on the head when he said, “It’s been good for us. In fact, we have seen an increase, an uptick in builders wanting to use our Canadian metal buildings.” That’s the kind of silver lining you hope for, isn’t it?

It just makes sense, too, when you think about it. We’re loaded with resources, and steel is definitely one of them. As the sales manager points out, why would we buy it from another country after it’s been processed there and shipped back, when we can get it right from our own backyard? That’s not just good for this one company, it’s good for the whole Canadian steel industry. It’s about bringing things back home, supporting our own, and building a stronger foundation from within.

Now, I hear what the president of the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction is saying, and there’s no denying that tariffs can create a lot of uncertainty and challenges for some. Losing a major market is a big deal, and jobs are always at the forefront of everyone’s mind. But there’s also something to be said for the push it gives us to look inward, to innovate, and to truly become more self-sufficient.

To me, this is exactly what’s needed for a healthy country. It’s about taking those challenges and making some good, strong Canadian lemonade. When we rely more on ourselves, our own resources, and our own ingenuity, that’s when we truly thrive. It’s a chance to strengthen our own supply chains and create opportunities right here at home.

It just goes to show, sometimes the difficulties we face are the very things that push us to find new and better ways of doing things. And for us, it might just be the push we needed to become even more resilient and independent.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

When a Nation/Country Loses Its Balance

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By GW

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

I was reading today about the U.S. Marines getting ready again to deploy in Los Angeles, all because protests and riots are breaking out across the country. The thing is, you can spin that any way you want, but here’s how I see it.

So…when you bring in too many people, from too many different backgrounds, all at once, without a real plan to help them settle, and truly become part of the country, you’re asking for trouble. And I don’t care how unpopular that sounds. It’s not about race, it’s about human nature.

People are no different, in many ways, than animals. Years ago, anyone who kept animals knew better than to toss a bunch of different breeds into one pen, and expect peace. You’d have chaos, fights over territory, over food, and more so…over who’s in charge. That’s just what happens when instincts clash and there’s no clear structure.

Now look at the U.S. people are angry and divided, and it’s not always the folks who were born and raised there causing the damage, at the moment I think it’s those carrying deep-rooted grievances, folks who never really became part of the whole in the first place.

And…. if we’re not careful here in Canada, we’ll be heading down that same road. I’m not saying we shouldn’t help people or open our doors, but we’ve got to be smart about it. “You can’t just keep pouring water into a cup that’s already full.“

This isn’t just about “protests.” It’s about a country losing its balance. And once that balance tips too far, it’s hard to steady things again.

I’ve lived long enough to know that harmony doesn’t just happen, it’s something you have to work at, and protect, or you lose it. Which is the way things are turning out now in the USA. Get ready Canada!!!.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Where the Past & Future Hangs Its Hat

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Good Morning, Folks. The sky’s got that look today, like it’s deciding whether to rain or just brood awhile. I know the feeling!

And with that, here’s the forecast for today for us in cottage country.

Today, Thursday, June 12

Daytime: Expect hazy sun, with a high near 66 °F (19 °C).

  • Tonight: Skies will clear out after sunset. Temperatures will dip to around 42 °F (5 °C) under mostly clear skies.

Tomorrow (Friday, June 13)

  • Daytime: A mix of clouds and sunshine, with a chance of a passing shower or two in the afternoon. Highs around 61 °F (16 °C).
  • Tomorrow night: Remaining cloudy, with lows near 46 °F (8 °C).

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet these days, but we did have a lot of new vehicles going by the house yesterday. There was an accident over near Britt—another one between a transport and a car, so they rerouted all the traffic off Highway 69 across to Highway 11. In all my years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many transport-related accidents. It’s no real surprise, though, when you look at who they’ve been letting behind the wheel lately. The old-time drivers, the ones who’d been on the road for decades, they knew how to handle those big rigs. These days, a good number of them just don’t have that same experience or training, and it shows.

Bug Report:
Well, I’m happy to report that yesterday I spent the whole afternoon out in our vegetable gardens and didn’t see a single black fly. Not one. The only pest that showed up was a deer fly, and if you’ve ever met one, you know they don’t come to visit, they come to bite. Once they find you, that’s it. You’re their afternoon project. I swear, those things are like flying bloodhounds with wings and a bad attitude.

On another note, like I mentioned earlier, I managed to clear out some weeds in our vegetable garden and hoe up the soil around the tomato plants. It took some doing, but I’ve always enjoyed working the land. Been that way all my life. There’s just something about the smell of freshly turned soil and being surrounded by growing things that settles a person down.

Back when I was farming full-time, I used to say, “You can tell how your day’s going by how the dirt feels under your boots.” If it’s soft and rich, chances are you’re doing alright. And if the weeds pull easy, well, that’s just a bonus.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s mowing day here at the Walters home, which I suspect will take up most of the morning. The good news is the grass has finally slowed down a bit, and we just might be able to start mulching it. That makes things a lot easier in the long run. But we’ll see how it goes once we get into the thick of it, so to speak.

With that, I’m off once again to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, and then I’ll head on outdoors. One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Elon-Trump Tango: More of a Muddle Than a Meltdown?

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Well now, that whole public dust-up between Elon Musk and President Trump has settled, I kinda think that this wasn’t a full-blown fight. It looked more like two powerful men with strong opinions getting their wires crossed. It felt like neither one was quite sure what they wanted from the other, and things just got a little messy.

And once the dust settles and they each have time to cool off and think it through, I wouldn’t be surprised if they come to some kind of understanding. Maybe they won’t be as close as they once were, but I can still see them staying on speaking terms, maybe even crossing paths again when it suits them.

Just think about it. Elon lives and breathes science, always pushing limits with Tesla and SpaceX. Trump’s a dealmaker who built his name in business and knows how to work a crowd. Both are billionaires. Both are sharp in their own way. When minds like that meet, even if they don’t always get along, things tend to happen. And more often than not, something gets done.

And truth be told, we’re going to need minds like Elon’s in the years ahead. The world isn’t standing still. Technology’s racing ahead, the planet’s feeling the strain, and whether we like to think about it or not, there may come a time when we need real ways off this Earth. That’s not science fiction anymore, and the good news is it’s something folks like him are actually working on, and truth told; we’ll be glad someone had the vision and the courage to build the ship before we needed it.

It’ll be worth watching what comes out of this next round.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Coffee, Dirt, and a Pen That Still Works on June 11/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. The coffee’s hot, the world is quiet, and the words are waking up slow, just like me.

Well, taking a close look at nature this morning, it seems we are in for a pretty nice day. The sun is breaking through the haze, and the robins are enjoying their morning breakfast of fresh worms from our front yard, and there’s hardly a breeze blowing through the pines.

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

Today (Wednesday, June 11):
Expect a hazy and warm day, with highs reaching around 71 °F (22 °C). Breezy conditions will pick up this afternoon. Tonight, temperatures dip to about 50 °F (10 °C) under clear to partly cloudy skies.

Tomorrow (Thursday, June 12):
The day will turn mostly cloudy, with highs near 67 °F (20 °C). Overnight, it’ll be cooler again, dropping to around 44 °F (7 °C).

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, with folks not quite sure if they want to venture into our area. And with the weather acting up the way it has been, and the Black Flies out doing what they do best, I’d say staying put isn’t the worst idea. Can’t blame anyone for not wanting to be a buffet.

Now, in saying all that, the weather is about to turn for the better, and the Black Flies are just about ready to pack it in. That’ll leave us with only the blood-sucking joy of mosquitoes. But at least when the sun’s out, they disappear, at least till nightfall, that is. Which suits me just fine, since I’m in the house by then anyway.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away fixing up a few things around the yard, between showers, that is. I also managed to get the frames for some windows all fixed up nicely. A few weren’t worth the trouble, so I just made new ones. Sometimes it’s easier to start fresh than fight with something that’s already given up.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I suspect, being that it isn’t raining, I’m going to work up around my tomato plants along with the other vegetables, as I’ve noticed some weeds starting to show themselves. I like to just cut them off with my old hoe and let them lay, as they add more natural fertilizer back into the soil, and the best part is, it’s free. Why pay out of your pocket for that chemical fertilizer when it doesn’t really do your plants any good? Truth told, I never use it. It’s got no real comparison to what nature already gives us. Those chemical mixes might green things up quick, but they don’t feed the soil, and without good soil, you’ve got nothing.

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. Afterward, I’ll settle in with a nice cup of hot cocoa and enjoy our morning chat. Then I’ll see what the day has in store.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

When the Town Calls… but It Ain’t the Town

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

The other day, the phone rang here at home, nothing unusual about that, except the call display read Port Loring, Ontario. Now, folks around here will know, Port Loring’s not exactly teeming with people, and I can just about name everyone who’d likely be calling, and this wasn’t one of them.

Still, curiosity had me, so I let it go to voicemail first. Sure enough, it was one of those scam recordings:
“Someone has made a $700 purchase on your account. We’ve put it on hold. To fix this, press one.”

Right then I knew it was a scam.

But here’s the part that gets me. They’d spoofed a local number, making it look like this call was coming from right here in our little town. That’s the trick these scammers are using now. They know we’re more likely to trust a local call, and maybe pick up out of habit.

Truth is, they can make any number show up on your phone, whether they’re sitting in a basement in another country, or running a scam mill somewhere else. It’s all automated. The town name showing on your screen doesn’t mean the call came from here, or that your phone line’s been hacked.

Now here’s the real danger: if you do press one, or talk to whoever they transfer you to, they’ll go to work fast.

They might say they’re from your bank or credit card company, and ask for your name, card number, security code, even your PIN. Some will ask you to download something to your phone or computer to “fix” the issue, which gives them access to everything on your device. Others might tell you to move money around, saying it’s part of a fraud investigation. The truth though, it’s all smoke and mirrors, and it’s all aimed at getting your money or your identity.

And here’s something new, and a little scary. Scammers can now record or mimic your voice. That’s right. Just a few seconds of you talking, even saying something simple like “yes” or “hello”, can be enough for them to build a digital copy of your voice. And it should be noted, that once they have that, they can use it to fool voice-activated systems, impersonate you on phone calls, or even trick your family or your bank.

So here’s my bit of advice:
If you get one of these calls, hang up. Don’t press any buttons. Don’t talk to the voice on the other end. If it sounds like a serious bank issue, hang up and call your bank directly, using the number on your card or their official website — not the number the scammer used.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Daybreak Notes from an Old Writer on June 10/2025

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Good Morning Folks.
It’s a new day, and I’m reminded how farming and writing have something in common. What would that be? Well, I found that you can’t rush either. Both need patience, steady hands, and the kind of care that only comes with years under one’s belt.

Well, she is another rainy old morning here in Cottage Country. The kind of day that makes one think that an extra cup of coffee/cocoa might be in order before heading on out to the old woodworking shop.

Here’s what the weather’s cooking up for us in Port Loring, Ontario, for today, tonight, and tomorrow:

Today (Tuesday, June 10): We’re looking at a mostly cloudy day with a good chance of showers. Temperatures will reach a high of around 62°F (17°C). The wind will be coming from the southwest, around 11 mph (18 km/h).

Tonight: The rain should taper off, leaving us with partly cloudy skies. It’ll cool down to a low of about 50°F (10°C), which means it might be a bit chilly out there.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, June 11): We can expect a mix of sun and clouds, with a chance of passing showers. It’ll warm up a bit, with a high near 70°F (21°C).

Highway 522 is still slow traffic wise these days, which is understandable being that the weather sure hasn’t been the greatest so far this spring. But, with all that said, the trees are sure enjoying the moisture and cooler temperatures.

Bug Report: With these cooler temperatures and wet weather, the bugs have slowed down some, but don’t you fret because they’ll be back, seeking out some fresh, warm blood in the coming days.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away, fixing up a few things around the house. Seems like there’s a never-ending list of chores that always needs attending to. Which, in a way, is a good thing, because it keeps the old mind entertaining good thoughts and staying sharp, just like a well-used saw.

So what are you up to today, GW? Well, today I suspect, given that it’s raining outside, I’m thinking I’ll get to fixing up some window frames that are in need of repair. As much as I hate to think this way, winter will be coming, and it’s always best to be prepared. Besides, this is the time to do it, when it’s nice and warm outside.

So, with all that in mind, I’m off for the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. Then I’ll settle into my old Lazy Boy chair and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa while having a morning chat with my little woman. What would a day be without that? Not much in my eyes, that’s for sure.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather

Cooler Air, Damp Skies — A Look at What’s Coming

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Only On The Walters Post

Well, it kinda looks as if this below-normal temperature pattern that’s been affecting much of Canada is going to touch us here in Port Loring too. You know, I still pay attention to the old ways, when it comes to the weather. The feel of the air, the look of the sky, how the birds act in the morning, it all tells you plenty if you’re paying attention.

Tonight, we’ll be dipping down to around 54°F (12°C), with the chance of a passing shower still hanging around, and the sky might stay a bit unsettled, but not enough to keep most of us from sleeping sound.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, June 10, will be a little cooler, about 65°F (18°C) during the day and 50°F (10°C) overnight. We’ll likely get some morning showers, but things should clear up a bit in the afternoon. Something like today.

Wednesday, June 11, looks like the best day of the bunch, sunny to partly cloudy, reaching about 72°F (22°C), then back down to 50°F (10°C) at night. Might be a breeze or two and a passing shower later in the day.

Thursday, June 12, will turn cooler again, 69°F (20°C) for a high and 46°F (8°C) overnight, with mostly cloudy skies.

On Friday, June 13, you’ll really notice the chill, with highs only reaching 62°F (16°C) and down again to 46°F (8°C) at night. It’ll be damp and cloudy, not the kind of day to count on drying laundry outside.

Saturday, June 14, will be partly sunny with a high around 68°F (20°C), overnight near 49°F (9°C). It should feel a touch better than Friday, but still on the cool side.

Then Sunday, June 15, brings good news as the warmer air looks to return. We’re looking at 74°F (24°C) during the day and 55°F (13°C) at night, feeling more like the June we expect.

So what does this mean for us? Mornings and evenings will be crisp, so grab a jacket or sweater if you’re heading out early or sitting by the lake at dusk. Keep the rain gear handy for the first half of the week, as It won’t be a washout, but enough showers will pass through that you’ll want to be prepared. And if you’re gardening, this stretch of cooler, damp weather might slow some of your heat-loving plants. I’d mulch around them to hold in a bit of warmth. I will do that tomorrow.

So that’s the honest lay of the land folks, a cool and somewhat damp week, but not the end of the world.

Come next Sunday, we should be swinging back toward those warm summer days we all look forward to.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

When History Becomes a Target

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Lately, we have seen a lot of statues toppled, monuments defaced, and books pulled from classrooms, all because some say they represent the wrong things. The latest act, vandalizing the National Holocaust Monument in downtown Ottawa with hateful graffiti, feels like another reminder of how some people want to erase or rewrite what once was. In saying that, though, I think it is only a select few causing this destruction.

The thing is yes, many of these statues or books remind us of times that were wrong, unfair, and harsh, but tearing them down or hiding them away does not fix the past. In fact, it risks losing the very lessons those things were meant to teach. Just like the books we remember from school, these monuments and statues stand as markers of history …. sometimes painful, sometimes uncomfortable, but always important.

Another point, I believe, is that our powers that be should also not be the ones deciding to erase these reminders. Instead, they should stand firm, ensuring these pieces of history stay where they belong in public view as reminders of what was and warnings for what must never be again.

We do not have to celebrate the wrongs of the past, but we do have to remember them.

Because forgetting history is the surest way to repeat it. That’s my take on the subject!

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Better Late Than Never—If It Sticks

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

So Carney’s planning to hit that NATO spending target this year, two percent of GDP. Or at least, that’s what the sources are saying. Now, I’m still leery of the man for a few reasons, but I’ll admit this could be a step in the right direction if he follows through and if the money actually goes where it’s needed most.

Truth is, we’ve got a lot of catching up to do, especially when it comes to our Armed Forces. Our air force has been working with jets that are older than most of the folks flying them, and that’s not just a figure of speech, it’s the plain truth. We even bought eighteen used F-18s from Australia not long ago, and some of them weren’t in great shape either. Truth is, half the fleet is often grounded, just waiting on parts or repairs. You can’t protect a country with aircraft that can’t get off the ground.

Now, in saying that, Canada finally did commit to buying eighty-eight brand-new F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin. That deal was made back in 2022, and it’s worth around nineteen billion dollars. The first batch won’t show up until 2026, and even then, it will take time before they’re fully ready. But that’s something, and I know our pilots and the rest of the air force will sure appreciate having real equipment they can count on.

But it doesn’t stop with the air force. Our navy’s been struggling too. We’ve got coastlines on three sides, but our presence on the water has thinned out over the years. Up North especially, where Russia’s been sniffing around the Arctic, we’ve been far too slow to respond. We need more than just talk, we need proper ships that can handle the ice, working radar, and enough trained sailors to run them without burning out.

Then there’s the people themselves. The men and women who signed up to serve. They deserve better. Better pay, better housing, and proper support, not just for them, but for their families too. You can’t build a strong defence on worn-out gear and promises that don’t get kept.

So yes, Carney’s announcement might sound good on paper, but I’ll hold off on the applause until we see where that money actually goes. Two percent is just a number, what matters is what gets done with it.

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

Welcome to my little corner of the countryside, where storytelling meets the everyday joys of woodworking, farming, and gardening. I’m GW, a writer and published author with over thirty years of experience.