What’s Happening In Cottage Country on August 16/2023

Good Morning!

It’s a bit cloudy this morning, but the sun is trying to show her self and by the looks of things it will be a really nice day. So in knowing that I will do some work in our vegetable garden a bit later.

Highway 522 is still quiet, and I suspect it will remain that way for the rest of the year, It might pick up a wee bit the first of September when the kids go back to school.

On another note, my lovely wife and I took a trip to North Bay yesterday as we had some things to do along with picking up some groceries. Other than the prices being a touch high, we had a great day while there and on the way home. They are paving the far end of Highway 522 going into Trout Creek. But it isn’t slowing the traffic down all that much, and I have to say they are doing a nice job. I also noticed that they can do quite a stretch in one day too.

With that I am off for a bite to eat that my lovely wife is preparing for me and will then see what the day has in store other than what I have planned. I never know, I start off doing one thing and end up doing something totally different.

Have a good day! GW

What’s Happening In Cottage Country on August 15/2023

Good Morning!

Looking towards the east, we have a red sky this morning, with the sun easing its way out of bed. It should remain with us throughout the day, with a few clouds blocking it off and on. We could also see or smell some smoke today if the winds come in from the east. At the time of this post, it was coming in from the North East. Caused by the smoldering forest fires in Quebec and some parts of Northern Ontario. So, we will have to see how that pans out. For most parts this year, we here in Port Loring have been lucky without hardly any smoke. Which is fine with us.

Bug Report: Everything is good other than a few mosquitoes.

Highway 522 is still quiet these days.

On another note, I did manage to wash, clean, vacuum and wax our vehicle yesterday. It actually took me all morning and part of the afternoon to complete. But I didn’t mind, as it was a nice day, and I am happy I am able to do these things. But in saying that, my old body last night told me about it. We also had a steady stream of customers dropping by our gift shop on the weekend and yesterday, picking up a few things that struck their interest. We do have a unique selection of things, things that you can’t buy in most gift shops. Things that are created and made right here at our home by my lovely wife and I. None of that offshore stuff that you find in pretty well all the gift shops these days. And that is why they come to us, wanting to meet the people that makes these things and purchase a one of a kind piece from the creators themselves. Which is my wife and I.

With that, I am off for a piece of toast and will then get to work cleaning up my old woodworking shop.

Have a great day! GW

What’s Happening In Cottage Country on August 14/2023

Good Morning!

Starting things off, we are still in the midst of a lot of clouds this morning. The temperature has cooled down some, which makes it nice for sleeping. It is still quite humid though, but it is to be expected after all the rain we have been having. The seasons here in the north are beginning to change as they always do this time of year, closing in on September.

Bug Report: All is good these days.

Highway 522. It is still quiet and by the looks of things it will remain that way now for the rest of the summer with folks staying at home, caused by the price of things, along with the taxes here in Canada being so high. Pretty soon the Powers That Be, will be taking over half of your pay check. Kind of amazing if you think about it. Here they take half of your pay check and most folks go along with their thinking. Kind of makes me shake my head seeing what is happening these days. But in saying that it can only last so long, and things are, and will, begin to deteriorate more and more every day. It has to, as it can’t keep ongoing like it is. What can we do? Not much at the moment other than sit back and watch things play out. But it isn’t happening just here in Canada, The rest of the world is in trouble too. Bottom line. Too many people with too many ideas. Ideas that are…. Anyway, that is my rant for this morning.

With that I am off for a piece of toast that my lovely wife is preparing for me and will then head on outdoors and enjoy the day. The good part is where we live now, we are away from most of what is taking place in the world today. But it is slowly closing in on us.

Enjoy your day. GW

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.

Click On Image to Enlarge!

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.

Click on pictures to enlarge!

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?

Click On Image’s to enlarge!

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.