Supper Last Night
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Trying Out Our New Barbecue…..
A Healthy Supper??
Okay, it is questionable. But it sure is tasty, and you only live once. I think!
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What a Day
The Truth of the Matter
In Case You Didn’t Know
The Mind is a Funny Thing
It’s Hard to Hide The Truth
Wisdom Years Gone By
Climate Change
A Farmer’s Perspective on Global Warming: Nature’s Dance through Time
Hi Folks
As an old farmer who has witnessed the cycles of seasons and the rhythms of the land, I’ve come to believe that much of the global warming we see today is not solely due to human activities, but rather a part of the natural ebb and flow that our planet has experienced for millions of years. Allow me to share my perspective, rooted in years of tilling the soil and observing the world around me.
1. Nature’s Ever-Changing Patterns
Throughout history, our Earth has undergone countless changes. Ice ages have come and gone, oceans have risen and receded, and climates have shifted. These shifts were not due to human actions, but rather the result of complex interactions within the Earth’s systems. The planet’s tectonic movements, solar fluctuations, and volcanic activity are just a few factors that have contributed to these changes over vast time spans.
2. A Closer Look at the Past
When we delve into history, we uncover evidence of temperature fluctuations predating the industrial era. Ice cores, tree rings, and sediment layers reveal patterns of warming and cooling that occurred long before factories and cars became commonplace. This tells us that the planet has experienced significant temperature variations without direct human involvement.
3. The Human Impact
Undoubtedly, human activities have contributed to changes in our environment. Deforestation, industrial emissions, and energy consumption have released greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a warmer climate. However, it’s important to remember that our planet has endured natural climate shifts even before humans emerged. Volcanic eruptions, for instance, can spew enormous amounts of gases and particles into the air, affecting the climate more dramatically than human actions ever could.
4. Embracing Adaptive Practices
As farmers, we understand the value of adapting to the changing seasons. Our ancestors adjusted their practices in response to varying climates, and we continue to do the same today. While human actions do play a role in the current changes, we must also acknowledge that nature has its course. Instead of merely pointing fingers, we can strive to find harmony between our activities and the Earth’s inherent cycles.
5. Balance and Stewardship
By recognizing the intricate balance of natural processes, we can become better stewards of the land. Just as we adapt our farming methods to suit changing conditions, we should collectively strive to adopt sustainable practices that minimize our impact on the environment. This includes reducing emissions, conserving resources, and protecting ecosystems.
In conclusion, while human activities certainly contribute to global warming, it’s essential to view the broader context of Earth’s history. Our planet has undergone remarkable changes long before our time, shaped by factors far beyond our control. As stewards of the land, let us work towards a balance between our actions and the timeless rhythms of nature, preserving this beautiful world for generations to come.
What’s Happening In Cottage Country on August 13/2023
Good Morning!
Well, it looks as if the rain has subsided overnight, but I suspect it has a wee bit more in its system. Tomorrow however if lucky we could see a wee bit of sunshine, which would be nice, as I was thinking I might give our car a wash and a coat of wax before winter. In doing so, it will give it a bit of protection from what they are putting on the roads and highways these days. I have to admit, the calcium and salt they are putting down in our area sure takes a toll on the bodies and brakes on our vehicles, along with a lot of other things. The trouble is where we live now, we have an hour and a half drive one way to town for supplies, and in that time a lot of these chemicals get a chance to do their dirty work, so to speak. Put that together and the way they are building cars and trucks these days, a new vehicle doesn’t last very long. Sure is a shame, as vehicles aren’t cheap these days or are the repairs that are non ending.
Highway 522 was busy for the past few days. We have had a steady flow of folks dropping by our gift shop picking up some items of choice. It’s nice to chat to folks.
On another note, being that it rained most of the day yesterday off and on, I did do some work on my next new book of short stories. I made some great headway and by the looks of things I should have it ready for the first part of winter. If so, I can then finish up the mystery novel I was working on last winter, as it is almost complete too. So if things goes to plan, I will have two new books out for next spring. Which should keep my fans/readers happy. Me too for that matter.
Today I will continue on working away here in the house for a few hours, and then I will head on out to my old woodworking shop and clean it up a bit. I still have to bring some wood from the bush and pile it beside the shop for winter. It’s nice having it handy to get at, especially when I think we are in for a lot of cold, snowy weather this winter. But you never know, I have been known to be wrong once or twice in my lifetime.
With that I am off for a couple pieces of toast and will then see what the day has in store.
Each day holds the same value for me.
Have a great day!
What’s Happening In Cottage County On August 12/2023
Good Morning!
Weather wise it isn’t the greatest of days here in Cottage Country, and by the looks of things we are going to be having more rain now for the next 4 days. Which truth be known is what we need, with the trees and plants needing to store up their food supply for winter. It sure is amazing how fast time goes by. The good news for us, is we did get most of all the things that needed to be done this summer, before the snow enters into the picture. Other than putting some more vegetables and things away for winter. Which my lovely wife is doing daily. Taking fresh veggies from our gardens.
Bug Report: Everything is good in that department. My wife and I have been sitting out on our swing set I made a year ago under our old Basswood tree for an hour or so every day, enjoying a drink or two. I have to tell you, it sure is nice, sitting there chatting and taking in what nature has to offer. We need to be doing more of that.
On another note, I didn’t do much outside yesterday, as I was busy doing up fresh garlic for the freezer. We will have enough now to last us up till next year. My lovely wife was busy making Sweet Pickle Relish. If anyone wants some English Cucumbers to make some relish, or whatever, you’re welcome to some. We have more than we need, and they are just going to be thrown away. We like them better than the other pickling cucumbers. Just drop by and we will give you some.
With that I am off for a couple pieces of toast and will then see what the day has in store. Being that it is going to be raining for the next few days, I might work on the new book of short stories I have on the go. There have been a lot of requests for a new one.
Have a great day! GW
Sweet Cucumber Relish
When it comes to food, there’s something truly special about creating your own culinary masterpieces right in the comfort of your own home. One such delight that brings a smile to my face is homemade sweet pickle relish. This simple yet delightful condiment is a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients, along with homegrown cucumbers, can come together to create something utterly delicious.
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My Views On Carbon Tax
Imagine our planet as a big balancing act. On one side, we have things like trees, plants, and oceans that absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) – that’s the stuff we call carbon. They’re like nature’s vacuum cleaners, taking in CO2 and giving us oxygen to breathe. It’s been happening for millions of years, and it’s one of the reasons our air is clean.
Now, on the other side of the balancing act, there are things like cars, factories, and power plants that release CO2 into the air. This happens when we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. The CO2 they produce adds to the natural carbon cycle that’s been going on for ages.
Some people are suggesting a carbon tax. This is like a fee on the things that release CO2. The idea is that if these things cost a bit more, we might use them a little less. The money collected from this tax could also go towards projects that help the environment.
However, some folks think this might not be necessary. They believe that changes in the climate have happened naturally in the past. For example, long ago, places with lots of plants became cold, and then they warmed up again. It’s like the Earth’s thermostat going up and down. They believe that recent climate changes might be part of this natural cycle.
So, their point is that since we have all these trees and plants in Canada that do a great job of soaking up CO2, we might not need to tax people for carbon emissions. They think nature’s already doing its part, and human activities might not be the only cause of climate changes.
In the end, it’s a bit like figuring out a puzzle. Some people think a carbon tax is a good way to help balance things out and reduce our impact on the environment. Others believe that the changes we’re seeing could be part of the Earth’s natural ups and downs. It’s an ongoing conversation with a lot of different perspectives.
Building Homes On The Green Belt
Title: “Preserving Ontario’s Green Belt: A Farmer’s Perspective on the Importance of Agriculture”
As the sun rises over our fertile lands here in Ontario, a farmer’s heart is filled with a deep sense of connection to the soil that sustains us all. Our fields are more than just patches of earth; they are the lifeblood of our communities, providing us with nourishment and sustenance. That’s why the idea of building homes on the cherished green belt strikes at the core of our values and concerns.
The green belt, oh, it’s not just a belt of greenery; it’s a shield that protects our ability to feed our families and communities. When we talk about the green belt, we’re talking about a sanctuary for agriculture, a haven where the magic of growth happens. But the proposal to build homes upon this precious land threatens the delicate balance between our food sources and urban expansion.
Picture this: fields of waving wheat, rows of sturdy corn, and the vibrant hues of ripening tomatoes. This is the symphony of nature’s bounty that our green belt conducts. You see, my friends, the land we farm is not just a canvas for houses; it’s a canvas for life itself. Each acre is a canvas on which we sow the seeds of sustenance, hope, and tradition. It’s a canvas that transforms sunlight, water, and earth into the nourishment that graces our tables.
Now, some might argue that building homes on the green belt is a necessary step for urban growth. But let’s take a moment to ponder the repercussions. When these lands are paved over, not only do we lose valuable agricultural space, but we also disrupt the natural processes that sustain our delicate ecosystem. The rich soil that took generations to nurture is covered in asphalt and concrete, suffocating the very essence of life beneath it.
And what about the impact on our food security? Friends, building homes on the green belt is like tearing pages out of our cookbook for survival. It’s a recipe for disaster, as it shrinks the space we need to cultivate the crops that feed our families. Our ancestors knew the value of these lands, and it’s our duty to carry forward their legacy by protecting them.
Imagine a future where our children and grandchildren must rely on imported produce because we failed to safeguard our local farms. It’s a haunting thought, isn’t it? But we can prevent this bleak scenario from becoming a reality. By preserving the green belt, we ensure that the seeds of sustainability continue to sprout, the roots of tradition continue to deepen, and the fruits of our labor continue to grace our plates.
In conclusion, my fellow stewards of the land, let us remember that the green belt is not just a collection of fields; it’s a sanctuary of sustenance. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to the earth and to one another. Let us stand united against the notion of building homes on this precious land, and instead, let us cultivate a future where the fields continue to thrive, and the harvest continues to bless our tables. For the green belt is not just a belt; it’s a lifeline, and it’s our duty to protect it for generations to come.
Electric Cars
Title: The Cold Truth: Why Electric Cars Ain’t Quite Ready for Canada’s Northern Folk
Howdy, folks! Now, y’all might have heard all the buzz ’bout them fancy electric cars takin’ over the roads. But lemme tell ya straight, from the heart of a retired old Northern farmer who’s been battlin’ blizzards and chill fer years, these electric contraptions ain’t quite the right fit for our neck of the woods.
Now, don’t get me wrong – I ain’t against progress. But when it comes to them electric cars up here in Canada’s frosty North, there’s a whole heap of reasons why we ain’t quite ready fer ’em just yet.
1. Cold Ain’t Their Cup of Tea: Out here, winter ain’t no joke. Them electric cars, bless their silicon hearts, they start actin’ all sluggish and slow when the temperature dips way down low. Batteries just don’t take too kindly to the cold, and who’s got the time to wait fer ’em to warm up when you’re late for milkin’ the cows?
2. Charge It Up, Eh? Now, picture this – you’re out in the middle of nowhere, miles from the nearest town, and that fancy electric contraption of yours decides it’s time to take a nap ’cause the battery’s run dry. Reckon you ain’t gonna find no electric outlets in them woods. Gasoline stations, sure. But ‘lectrified power points? Not so much.
3. Distance Dilemma: See, up here, we like to stretch our legs and roam free. But them electric cars, they can run outta juice quicker than a raccoon can snatch a biscuit. Ain’t no point in ownin’ a car that can’t take you from one end of the farm to the other without needin’ a pit stop.
4. Reparations and Know-how: When ol’ Bessie my ATV breaks down, I can tinker and fix her up with a wrench and some elbow grease. But them electric gizmos, they got more wires than a spider’s web. Fixin’ ’em up takes more know-how than I can muster with a manual. And don’t even get me started on the cost of replacin’ them high-tech bits.
5. Power Outages, Nature’s Fury: Now, y’all know we ain’t strangers to power outages up here. Winter storms and blizzards can knock out the grid quicker than you can say “eh?” When that happens, I’d rather be sittin’ in a trusty old truck than a high-tech paperweight with wheels.
6. Fuel’s Still King: Good ol’ gasoline might have its flaws, but it’s been keepin’ our rides rollin’ for decades. Up here, we’ve got stations aplenty, and even if the fuel prices dance around like a barnyard hoedown, at least we know we can keep on truckin’.
So, there ya have it, folks. While them electric cars might be all the rage in the big cities, us Northern folk reckon they ain’t quite the right fit for our rugged terrain and frosty winters. Don’t mean we’re ignorin’ progress, but sometimes, the old ways still got a whole lot of life left in ’em. So, until them electric wonders can handle the cold like a moose in January, I’ll stick to my trusty Ford Edge and leave the electric fancy-dancin’ to them city slickers.
Homegrown Zucchini Relish
My lovely wife just got done making up our Zucchini Relish for the cold months ahead. I even snapped a picture of a couple of them lovely jars she filled. She usually whips up ’bout six jars, just enough to keep us well-fed through winter. But every now and again, she gets a hankerin’ to make a few more.
Let me tell y’all, that relish of hers is like a dollop of sunshine on a gloomy day. Come wintertime, when them veggies cost an arm and a leg, and don’t even get me started on the lack of flavor, this relish truly saves the day. It’s like bottlin’ up a bit of summer to enjoy when the world outside is all frosty and gray.
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Garlic
Well, it’s that time of the year when I’m kept quite busy tending to my garlic for the freezing season. What I do is, I first give ’em a good knock to brush off all that dirt, then I snip the tops and the roots. After that, I peel away the outer layers and separate all them cloves. Once that’s done, I tidy things up and start peeling each individual clove. Once I’ve finished that task, I seal ’em up in small bags using the vacuum sealer and pop ’em in the freezer for the winter ahead. They’ll keep well for a good year or even longer, if need be. And you know what’s just wonderful? When we finally use ’em, they taste just as delightful as if they were fresh from the earth. And the cherry on top is that none of ’em go to waste by goin’ bad. Now ain’t that just the best thing you ever heard?
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What’s Happening In Cottage Country On August 11/2023
Three jars ready of Red Pepper Jelly. Four or five more to go.
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Good Morning!
It looks as if we are in for another really nice day here in Cottage Country. The days are pleasant and evenings are nice for sleeping with the windows open. Waking up, the temperature was sitting at 14.8 C | 58.64 F. It will warm up as the day progresses, and we will be having some sunshine today.
Highway 522 is still quite slow for this time of year as a lot of tourists have been forced to stay home these days, being taxed to death so to speak. But the price of some things are slowly starting to fall, being that if they don’t drop their prices … they will soon be out of business. And I suspect some will be out of business even if they do start dropping their prices, as they waited to long.
Bug Report: Working a lot outside these days, I haven’t hardly seen any of them blood sucking parasites, other than a few mosquitoes in certain areas.
On another note, by the time I got breakfast out of the way yesterday, the sun came out and I manged to get our grass cut. It sure looks nice when all said and done. Makes me want to sit outside and take in what Mother Nature has to offer, which is a lot if a person takes the time to enjoy it. Today I will take it easy as I am not feeling up to par, not sure what happened, but having a bit of trouble walking again. I was doing great. I guess I moved or twisted the wrong way yesterday somehow. At any rate I am still moving which is something.
With that I am off for a piece of toast this morning and will then see what the day has in store, or better yet, what I am able to do. My lovely wife is still doing up preserves, yesterday it was Red Pepper Jelly which is superb on crackers with cheese, or some good Polish Sausage, which actually we bought at a Polish store in St Catharines, while visiting our son last weekend, they have the best there is. Today she is going to be making some more cucumber relish, and after that she is going to freeze up some zucchini as she uses it in soups, stews and lasagna’s. Sure is tasty. She has already done up some zucchini relish.
Have a great day! GW
What’s Happening These Days
Escaping the Social Media Quicksand with a Dash of Humor
In a world where social media platforms have become our digital playgrounds, the real question that arises is, “What comes next?” Are we slowly morphing into a society that relies more on scrolling than strolling, and double-tapping rather than double-checking? It’s time to take a humorous yet truthful look at the social media frenzy that’s swept us off our feet, and how we can regain control of our lives.
#HashtagHijinks: The Social Media Stratosphere
Oh, the magical land of hashtags and filters, where a humble selfie can transform into a glamorous portrait with a swipe and a click. We’ve all seen it—friends contorting their faces into ungodly shapes, all in the name of finding that perfect selfie angle. But let’s face it, folks, we’re not all aspiring models, and the world can only handle so many pouty lips and smoldering gazes.
Reality Check: FOMO vs. JOMO
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) has become our digital arch-nemesis. We’re constantly bombarded with images of friends’ fabulous vacations, gourmet meals, and picture-perfect lives. But wait, isn’t that just one corner of their lives, meticulously curated for likes and comments? It’s time to embrace the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Put down the phone, step out into the real world, and discover that life isn’t just about the highlights reel—it’s about embracing the messy, unfiltered moments.
Self(ie)-Discovery: A Journey Back to Reality
In a world where a carefully constructed online persona reigns supreme, it’s easy to forget who we really are. Have you ever seen a photo of yourself and thought, “Do I really look like that?” Maybe it’s time to leave behind the Snapchat filters and come face-to-face with the real, unfiltered you. Remember, the quirks and imperfections are what make you uniquely beautiful.
Escaping the Digital Quicksand: Take Back Your Life
So, what comes next after social media saturation? It’s high time we rekindle our relationship with reality. Start by setting time limits for your scrolling sessions—because let’s be honest, you don’t need to know what your aunt’s neighbor’s dog had for breakfast. Engage in activities that don’t involve screens—read a book, go for a walk, try cooking a new recipe (and hey, sharing it online is optional!).
The Punchline: Life is Calling, and It’s Not a DM
In the grand sitcom of life, social media might be a recurring punchline, but it’s not the main act. The real question isn’t just “What comes next?” but also “What’s happening now?” Let’s pause the meme marathon, step away from the cat videos, and reclaim our time for genuine experiences, real laughter, and in-person connections.
So, the next time you’re about to post a photo of your avocado toast, remember this: life’s most precious moments aren’t filtered or cropped. They’re raw, unedited, and waiting for you beyond the screen. It’s time to log off and live on—because the only thing better than a viral tweet is a life well-lived.
In a world of likes, let’s love our lives offline. It’s time to press “unfollow” on the digital realm and hit “like” on the world outside our screens.
What’s Happening
The Love-Hate Relationship Between Media and Government – It’s Complicated!”
Subtitle: “A Comedic Exploration of How Journalists and Politicians Tango Through Tumultuous Times”
Introduction: Ah, the news media and the government – like peanut butter and jelly, Batman and Robin, or Monday mornings and a good cup of coffee. Their relationship is a dance as intricate as a salsa routine, as dramatic as a soap opera, and as confusing as trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. In this whimsical exposé, we unravel the tangled web of their “mutually beneficial” partnership, proving that sometimes, the truth is stranger than fiction.
Act 1: The Dramatic Tango of Crisis Creation: Imagine a world without crises – no sensational headlines, no anxious viewers glued to their screens, and worst of all, no politicians with an audience to impress. The horror! Enter the news media, with their trusty magnifying glass, seeking out specks of drama even in the dullest of situations. Need to spice up a story about a lost cat? Suddenly, it’s “Breaking News: Feline Phenomenon Grips the Nation!” The government officials, meanwhile, gleefully watch the media circus unfold, rubbing their hands together in anticipation of their time in the spotlight.
Act 2: The Grand Illusion of Response: Government officials have a responsibility – nay, a duty – to appear as though they’re responding decisively to crises. Think of them as magicians, pulling rabbits out of hats (or policies out of thin air). The media plays along, eager to capture the heroic moment when our leaders swoop in to save the day. Whether it’s declaring war on the menace of rogue squirrels or promising to eradicate the ominous bubble gum shortage, politicians are quick to seize the opportunity for a photo op, complete with a stern gaze into the camera that screams, “I’m here to fix things!”
Act 3: The Mythmaking Mambo: As the tango intensifies, so does the mythmaking. Journalists and politicians spin tales more convoluted than a season finale of a binge-worthy TV show. Suddenly, a garden variety traffic jam becomes a national crisis of epic proportions – “Traffic Armageddon: The Day the Commuters Stood Still.” And don’t even get us started on the labyrinthine narratives politicians construct to explain why they were seen exiting a donut shop at 3 AM while advocating for healthier eating.
Act 4: The Cosmic Collision of Self-Interest: In this cosmic dance, self-interest reigns supreme. Journalists need sensational stories to boost their ratings, secure their jobs, and maybe even get that coveted Pulitzer. Meanwhile, politicians yearn for reelection, striving to convince the masses that they alone possess the secret formula to solve all of society’s ills. It’s a collision of ego, ambition, and the perpetual craving for validation, all wrapped up in a glitzy package of sensational headlines.
Conclusion: So, there you have it – a backstage pass to the greatest show on Earth, where the news media and the government twirl and twist, each fueling the other’s insatiable appetite for attention. Whether it’s a joint fabrication or a genuine crisis, one thing’s for sure: this dance isn’t ending anytime soon. So, dear reader, the next time you catch a glimpse of a politician dramatically patting a firefighter’s back while the camera zooms in, or witness a journalist turning a minor hiccup into an apocalyptic ordeal, remember the intricate tango they’re performing for your entertainment. And who knows, maybe someday we’ll see them on “Dancing with the Stars: Media vs. Government Edition” – because when it comes to outlandish spectacles, they’ve certainly earned their spot in the limelight!