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

Stories in the Making, One Morning at a Time on April 23/2025

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Good morning! You know… out here, the only real chatter worth listening to comes from the chickadees in the trees, not from the phone lines. But when the phone does ring, it’s rarely anyone we actually want to hear from. And more often than not, it’s a telemarketer trying to sell us something we didn’t even know we needed, or a recorded voice asking for our vote like we’ve been best friends since high school.

Well, we’re finally getting a bit of sunshine this morning, and I’ve got to say, it’s a welcome sight. The weather hasn’t been all that kind to us so far this spring… cold, damp, and downright unpredictable. I’m hoping it’ll make up for all the nonsense it’s thrown at us these last few weeks… after all, we’re closing in on May, and it’s about time we got some decent weather.

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

April 23 to April 24, 2025

Today – Wednesday
After a stretch of wet and dreary weather, we’re finally getting a bit of sunshine. Skies will stay mostly clear, with a high around 50°F (10°C) a fine day to get a few outside chores done. At any rate, it’s a welcome change. Oh, and the wind will be light coming in from the west with dry conditions staying with us for most of the day.

Tonight
Clear and cool tonight, with temperatures dipping to about 39°F (4°C). A calm evening, good for stargazing, which we have a lot of in our area. Might be a touch damp by morning with some patchy ground frost in lower spots.

Tomorrow – Thursday
The day will start off bright, but clouds will creep in by late morning. Expect a high near 55°F (13°C), with a slight chance of a stray afternoon shower. Nothing major, but enough to make you pause before hauling out the laundry line. Overnight, it’ll cool back down to around 40°F (5°C), which means it’s still not quite time to leave the greenhouse door wide open.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for an easy drive for anyone heading off to the big city for supplies. Traffic’s picking up too, mostly locals out and about, doing their rounds, either ticking off errands or, more often than not, catching up on the latest gossip. Around here, a trip to the post office can take a good hour if you run into the right (or wrong) crowd—especially those who seem to know what’s going on before it even happens.

On another note, yesterday I spent the whole day in front of my computer, working away with my wife by my side. We’ve been going through old newspapers and magazines she’s saved over the years, scanning every page that features one of my stories. I have to tell you, we worked hard all day and still barely made a dent in what’s stacked up in boxes—hundreds of them, at least. The problem with old newspapers is they deteriorate over time, and on top of that, they’re a real hassle to move around. But now, thanks to the high-tech setup our son helped us get going, we can have every story I’ve ever written stored in one place. And the best part? It’ll show the dates and other details for each one. Pretty handy, right? Now, we can flip through them whenever we want, without all the heavy lifting.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with the sun finally shining today, once it warms up a bit, I’ll be heading out to the old woodworking shop. There’s plenty to do—first, I’ll be cleaning things up a bit, then I’ll finish building the one wall that needed repairs on the end of one of our outbuildings. And after that? Well, we’ll see. There’s still a lot to tackle as we get ready for the big spring sale we’re planning.

So, with that, I’m off for the breakfast my little woman made for me… oatmeal, or porridge as some might call it, is on the menu this morning. After that, we’ll settle in with our hot cups of cocoa and enjoy a good chat. We always look forward to talking to each other before the day gets started.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Cracks in Canada’s Foundation

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Only On The Walters Post

I’ve been around long enough to know that when a country starts showing signs of strain, it’s not always loud or sudden. Sometimes it’s quiet, a slow unraveling, and I’ve got to say, from where I sit, things don’t feel right anymore.

It used to be that if you worked hard, followed the rules, and did your best, you’d get somewhere. You might not end up rich, but you could build a decent life; raise a family, own a home, maybe even leave something behind for your kids. But, that promise … the one this country was built on … well it’s fading fast.

More and more, I see folks stuck in place, no matter how hard they try. Young people working two or three jobs just to afford rent. Families are falling apart under the weight of debt and stress, while older folks like me watch the world shift into something unrecognizable, and not for the better.

It worries me, not just for me and mine, but for the kind of country we’re leaving behind. If we keep heading down this road, I can picture a future where people just give up. Where trust in our systems and institutions dries up, and where laws get ignored not out of rebellion, but out of desperation, because folks can’t afford food or shelter any other way.

And it’s not just about money, it’s about what that kind of pressure does to people. It chips away at your spirit, makes you question whether doing the right thing even matters; and when enough people feel like that, you’ve got a real problem on your hands.

I don’t claim to have all the answers, never have. But I’ve got eyes, and I’ve got gut instincts sharpened by a lifetime of hard work and paying attention. The thing is… if we don’t start facing reality and talking honestly about what’s going wrong, then we’re going to find ourselves in a place we never thought we’d be.

This isn’t fear talking, folks, it’s the plain truth. You can only ignore the cracks in the foundation for so long, before the whole thing comes falling down.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Polls: Why Too Many Canadians Miss the Big Picture

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Only On The Walters Post

I’ve been thinking a lot about these election polls we keep seeing — especially here in Canada. They’re everywhere, like weeds in spring, and folks seem to treat them like gospel. Trouble is, I think too many folks let those numbers do their thinking for them.

Here’s what I mean.

It seems like a lot of people don’t bother digging into the bigger picture anymore — what a candidate really stands for, what their record says about them, or where they might take the country. Instead, they just glance at the polls and go, “Well, looks like he or she’s ahead. Might as well vote for the winner.”

Why is that?

I figure a lot of folks just like backing a winner. Gives them that little boost — that statistic satisfaction, you might say. They can tell themselves, “Well, I voted for the one who got in,” as if that alone makes it the right choice. It’s kind of like cheering for the top team in a league, just so you can feel like you’re part of something successful — even if you’ve got no idea what game’s being played.

Problem is, when you vote like that, you’re not thinking about the real cost.

And speaking of cost — have we already forgotten what the last bunch in power here did? Billions added to the national debt, bad decisions that left a mess behind, and not much in the way of accountability. It seems to me people are quick to overlook all that, so long as the polls show their pick is out front.

That’s the danger of letting polls lead the charge. We end up electing based on momentum, not merit. And then we’re left cleaning up after the same kind of leadership that put us in this hole to begin with.

Polls have their place, sure. But they shouldn’t be steering the ship. If we want to keep this country on solid ground, we’ve got to vote with our heads and our hearts — not just follow the crowd.

So with this election coming up, it might pay to take a step back. Look past the numbers. Ask yourself what really matters to you — and whether the person you’re backing stands a chance of doing right by it. Because in the end, a country isn’t built by winners — it’s built by folks who think for themselves.

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

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

Thoughts Before the Ink Dries on April 21/2025

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Good Morning, From where the Trees Don’t Care About Your Problems, and the Only Rush Hour’s When the Deer Cross the Road.

It’s a cloudy morning here in Cottage Country, and the weather’s setting the tone for a cozy, indoor kind of day.

🌧️ Monday, April 21 – Rainy and Breezy

Today, except scattered showers throughout the day. The skies will stay gray, with clouds hanging low over the treetops.

  • High: 54°F (12°C)
  • Low: 36°F (2°C)
  • Rainfall: Around 0.39 inches (10 mm)
  • Winds: From the southwest at 15 to 25 mph (24 to 40 km/h), rustling the pines.

The rain should taper off by evening, but the chill in the air will linger — the kind that makes you reach for your long handles, and think twice about stepping out without your hat.

🌥️ Tuesday, April 22 – Grey Skies and Chilly Winds

Tomorrow brings more of the same — overcast skies, brisk air, and a touch of morning drizzle. And if we are real lucky, a touch of sunshine might show herself.

Winds: Will shift to the northwest at 10 to 20 mph (16 to 32 km/h), clearing the last of the rain clouds by afternoon.

High: 47°F (8°C)

Low: 30°F (-1°C)

Rainfall: Light, around 0.04 inches (1 mm)

Highway 522 is bare and dry at the time of this post, and the traffic is next to nill.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away outside, being that it was so nice and sunny. The wind was cool, but the sun was throwin’ off some heat for a change, which made it real nice for gettin’ some outside work done up.

My wife and I even got a chance to do some front porch sittin’ in the afternoon, which was sure nice for a change. Nothin’ like soakin’ up some of that vitamin D3 the way it should be done.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, since the weather’s not going to be so nice today, I might do some work here at my computer. I’ve been going through a bunch of newspapers I wrote for, years ago that my wife saved, and I have to say, they sure are interesting — like stepping back in time.

But, I might head out to the old woodworking shop and clean things up in there a bit later on. We’ll see what happens. I never really know what I’ll be doing. Start off with one thing, end up doing another.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then 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, Old Days, Old Ways

“The Election Under Threat”

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Only On The Walters Post

It was spring, and the election was just around the corner. George and Joe, two old-timers who’d seen a lot in their time, sat on the porch, sipping their coffee. The conversation turned to the election, and things weren’t looking too good.

“Have you been seeing what’s going on online?” Joe asked, frowning. “Someone’s saying one of the candidates wants to sell off farmland to foreign companies. I don’t know if that’s true, but it sure doesn’t sit right with me.”

George nodded slowly. “That’s the problem these days. People can post anything online, and others believe it. But we don’t know who’s behind those posts. Some of that stuff could be coming from other countries, trying to mess with our vote.”

Joe looked at him, puzzled. “You mean someone else is stirring the pot here? Making us believe things that aren’t true?”

“Exactly,” George replied. “It’s not just a few people in Canada arguing over politics anymore. Other countries—places like Russia or China—can create fake accounts or spread stories that divide us. They’ve got ways of making us believe things that aren’t facts.”

“That’s scary,” Joe said. “What can we do about it?”

George sighed. “Well, it’s up to folks like us to know better. We’ve been around long enough to see when something doesn’t add up. But the younger folks—those who get their news from Facebook or whatever—don’t always question what they see. That’s how these countries can cause real damage, without ever even stepping foot on Canadian soil.”

Joe thought for a moment. “Guess it comes down to making sure people know what’s true. If they start spreading lies or half-truths, that’s how they win.”

“That’s right,” George said. “We’ve got to make sure we don’t fall for it. And we’ve got to teach the younger crowd along with some of the older ones to do the same.”

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Real Picture Behind Immigration and Government Spending

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Only On The Walters Post

We’ve been told for years that Canada needs more immigrants because Canadians aren’t having enough children. But let’s cut to the chase: It’s not about birth rates. It’s an excuse to justify more government spending, more bureaucratic growth, and more programs that only add to the national debt.

Here’s what I believe is the truth: when more immigrants arrive, the government hires more workers to manage things—healthcare workers, social services, public programs—and that comes with a hefty price tag. More people, means more services, and those services are paid for by taxpayers. But instead of addressing the real issue, which is inefficient spending and mismanagement, they use immigration as a band-aid solution.

Look at the state of things. Our healthcare system is overwhelmed, people can’t even see a doctor in time for critical care because there aren’t enough professionals to meet the demand. On top of that, homelessness continues to rise, and it’s getting harder for regular folks to make ends meet. All of this should be addressed first, but instead, we’re told to focus on immigration, as if it’s the only answer.

The government’s push for more immigration, in my mind, isn’t about filling jobs—it’s about expanding their operations, growing the system, and justifying more spending. They don’t want to face the real problem, which is how they’ve mismanaged the country’s finances for years. Immigration gives them an easy way out by pointing to it as a “solution” for what’s really a symptom of a much bigger issue.

The thing is: We don’t have the infrastructure to support this influx, and it’s obvious in the way services are stretched thin. People are suffering because of it—whether it’s in waiting rooms, on the streets, or in long lines for services that don’t exist in the numbers they should. And all the while, the government keeps expanding, draining more resources without ever asking the tough questions about how they’ve gotten here.

This is what’s happening behind the government’s push for more immigration. It’s a way to cover up years of bad decisions and mismanagement—nothing more, nothing less. Of course, this is just my opinion and how I see things based on what I observe.

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

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

Stories from a Time That Listens on April 20/2025

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Good morning, folks! You know, thinking on things, I’ve come to realize that I’ve found more wisdom in a pile of firewood than in half the stuff people are spreading these days—like fake news and half-baked opinions.

So what is the weather going to be for Port Loring, Ontario, Canada? Well… the weather’s slowly turning the corner, but winter’s still hangin’ on a bit.

Sunday through Tuesday, expect cool days and cold nights. Highs will be between 47 and 52°F (8–11°C), and it’ll dip near or below freezing at night. Some sun on Sunday, but rain moves in Monday and Tuesday, and it’ll feel downright chilly, especially with Tuesday’s high around 47°F (8°C).

By midweek, we’ll catch a break. Wednesday brings more sun and a high near 55°F (13°C). Thursday’s warmer at 65°F (18°C), though clouds will move back in. More rain expected Friday, with a high near 59°F (15°C) and a low of 36°F (2°C).

The weekend looks decent—sunny and dry, with temps holding in the upper 50s°F (14°C) and getting warmer into the start of May. Nights will stay cool, but the ground’s thawing, and the bush is waking up.

Looking ahead, it’s shaping up to be a hot summer. A big heat ridge down south may stretch north and stick around, and if the pattern holds, we’ll get our fair share of hot and humid days by June. Storms could be more common, too, especially later in May.

Best have your gardens planned and your rain barrels ready. Could be a wild weather year.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, and I suspect it’ll stay that way for most of the day—it is Easter Sunday, after all. And speaking of Easter, I’ve always had a soft spot for the old Easter Bunny. For me, this time of year has always been about spring waking up, kids hunting for eggs, and maybe sneaking a bit of chocolate. But the thing is… somewhere along the line, folks brought in other meanings—and that’s their choice. But the truth is, the idea of the Easter Bunny didn’t come from religion. It actually came from German settlers, who brought the tradition with them when they came to North America back in the 1700s. They believed in a hare that laid colorful eggs, and over time it became what a lot of us grew up with. These days, I think some folks have gotten the story a little mixed up. Me? I stick with the truth, and the truth is—sometimes a bunny with a basket says more about the season than anything else.

On another note, with the weather being so wet and miserable yesterday, I decided to stay inside and spend some time at my computer. Meanwhile, my wife was steadily working away, sorting through things we haven’t used in years—getting everything ready for the big sale we’ve got planned in a few weeks. Of course, we’ll wait until the weather warms up a bit. No sense having folks standing around shivering. Much nicer when everyone can enjoy the day, browse around, and maybe share a story or two while they’re at it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today the sun’s peekin’ out, and by the feel of things, it’s gonna warm up a bit. That’s good news, because I’ve been itchin’ to get back to work on the wall in one of my sheds—the one I started about a week ago. With the cold we’ve had, I set it aside for a while, but it’s been sitting there, half-done, playin’ on my mind. Today feels like a good day to pick up where I left off, that is, once breakfast is taken care of.

And speaking about breakfast—living out here in the country, you learn to move with the weather, and today it’s giving us a break. My lovely wife’s got bacon, eggs, and toast cooking this morning, and let me tell ya—there ain’t much better than waking up to the smell of bacon grease cracklin’ in the pan and a pot of coffee perkin’ on the stove. That scent rolls through the house like a warm wind drifting across the back field. It’s the kind of morning that makes you feel like you’re setting’ out from the bunkhouse, with a full belly and the day ahead of you. The bacon’s crisp, the coffee’s strong, and everything just tastes better when you’ve got the quiet of the countryside around you.

Have a great day, folks: Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Who Pays for This Mess?

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Only On The Walters Post

I just read the latest report on the Liberal platform. Another $130 billion in new spending over four years, adding a total of $225 billion more to our national debt. And somehow, we’re supposed to believe this is good for Canada?

Let me be clear: the government doesn’t have any money of its own. Every dollar it spends comes out of the working man’s pocket — yours and mine. So when they say they’re investing in housing, tax cuts, among other things, what they’re really doing is borrowing against your future. Then they print more money to cover the shortfall, and every time they do that, our dollar loses value. That’s the hidden tax no one wants to talk about.

In doing so, the cost of living goes up. Groceries, fuel, housing — it all gets more expensive. And yet, people cheer this on like it’s going to save the country. Folks either don’t understand or simply choose to ignore what’s right in front of them. Not all but a lot. It makes me shake my head. The truth is, we’ve lost touch with the basics: you can’t spend your way out of debt, and you sure can’t build a strong nation on borrowed money.

This platform, in my eyes, isn’t bold or prudent like they claim — it’s reckless. They promise all kinds of programs, many of them unnecessary, along with tax breaks that rarely appear. At the same time, they’re piling on billions in new debt. And that money doesn’t come out of thin air. It won’t be the politicians paying for it — it’ll be working Canadians. The ones who save, pay their taxes, and try to build a better life are the ones left footing the bill. All while the government insists it’s helping them.

Now, I’m all for helping our country grow, but not like this. Not by drowning us in debt and pretending it’s progress. The truth is right there in the numbers, but many don’t want to see it.

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

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

What the Old Pen Knows on April 19/2025

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Only On The Walters Post!

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Good Morning Folks! The best stories come from the days when nothing went as planned.

Port Loring Weather – Saturday, April 19 & Sunday, April 20, 2025

Today (Saturday):
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55°F (13°C).

Tonight:
Clear and crisp, with temperatures dipping to around 28°F (-2°C). A perfect evening to enjoy a warm fire and a hot cup of tea.

Tomorrow (Sunday):
Partly cloudy skies, with a high of 49°F (9°C). Light winds and dry conditions could make it a nice day for a walk or tending to the garden.

Sunday Night:
Mostly cloudy, with a low near 32°F (0°C). A calm night, ideal for stargazing or… sharing stories.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, which is not surprising for a Saturday, since most folks are likely sleeping in, and I can’not’t say I blame them. As for me, the moment daylight starts filtering through the windows, I am wide awake and ready to get moving. I guess there is some truth to what my old Dad used to say: “Get out of bed, old timer, you are burning daylight.”

On another note, with yesterday being so wet, I spent the day here in front of my computer. I managed to write up a couple more stories for the folks I write for, and after that, I decided to go through some old papers that my wife has been saving. They show all the stories I’ve written over the years for various newspapers—literally hundreds of them. It was kind of nice to see the names of the papers and the dates. Some of the stories I can’t even remember writing—it’s been so long. A real walk down memory lane.

So, with all that in mind, I spoke with my son, Karl. He suggested I scan every page with my story on it, and then he’ll save them digitally, which will not only create more room in our house, but also make it easier to look through. That’s the plan, anyway. We’ll see how it works out. I know I won’t get them all done now that the weather’s warming up, as I’m not one to spend nice days indoors. But I’ll tackle what I can on the rainy days.

I’m actually looking forward to it. I never really realized just how many stories I’ve written over the past 30 years or so. Not only that, but I feel pretty lucky that my wife has saved them all for me, carefully organized in binders.

So, What Are You Up To Today, GW?

Well, seeing as it’s so wet and gloomy outside this morning, I’ll be doing a bit more work here at my computer. If the weather clears up some this afternoon, I’ll head out to my old woodworking shop and start tidying it up. I had planned to do that yesterday, but as it often goes, that didn’t quite happen.

So, with that in mind, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has made for me. After that, I’ll see what the day holds. You know, even though I’ve got a plan, it always seems like there’s a little twist in store—usually something she has in mind for me to do.

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

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

Talkin’ Truth Over Toast on April 18/2025

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Good Morning Folks! My stories are seasoned with coffee, sap and sawdust—makes ‘em sturdier.

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Friday, April 18, 2025

Expect periods of rain throughout the day, accompanied by breezy conditions in the morning.​

  • High: 59°F (15°C)
  • Low: 48°F (9°C)​

Saturday, April 19, 2025

A thick cloud cover is anticipated, with temperatures dropping significantly.​

  • High: 51°F (11°C)
  • Low: 27°F (-3°C)​

Highway 522 has seen a bit more traffic over the past few days, and I suspect it’s folks gearing up for the Easter long weekend. One spot that’s been hopping more than the Easter Bunny in our area is the LCBO.—seems a lot of folks are making sure their “spiritual” needs are met ahead of time.

On another note: Yesterday, my wife and I got the firewood re-piled—the stack that had toppled over during the winter. It took us about three hours, give or take. After that, we enjoyed a hot cocoa, relaxed for a spell, then had some lunch. Once we got our second wind, we headed back outside. The weather was just too nice to waste, and we managed to get most of our flower gardens cleaned up.

We like to get them done before a good rain, and with showers expected today, the timing couldn’t have been better. A clean bed helps the rain soak in and gives the flowers a fresh start. Plus, it’s easier to avoid snapping off new sprouts. Like our tulips, that are starting to show themselves.

You know, after a lifetime of farming, living close to the land and of course other things, I’ve come to see it plain and simple, that everything’s got its season, its own rhythm. You can’t rush it, and you sure can’t fight it. But if you pay attention and work alongside it, well, nature’s got a way of paying you back for your efforts. That’s just how it works, and it has helped me more times than not, over the years.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m thinkin’ I might tackle a bit of cleanup in my woodworking shop. With everything we’ve been doing around the place lately, it’s turned into one heck of a mess—can hardly find my bench, let alone my tools. Then, if the old body’s willing, I might even see about putting up some shelves in one of our side buildings. That’s where we’re planning to store all the tools and odds and ends we’re getting ready to part with at our big spring garage sale coming up in a few weeks.

It’s shaping up to be a good one, too—something for everyone and every age. If you can’t find a treasure in this sale, you likely weren’t lookin’ hard enough.

So with that, it’s time for breakfast once again. This morning, it’s an egg on an English muffin—thanks to my lovely wife—and you can’t beat that to start the day. After that, we’ll settle in with our regular hot cocoa and a good chat, just like we do every morning.

Then, well, we’ll see where the day leads. You can make all the plans you want, but in the end, life’s got its own ideas about how things should unfold. The thing is, you never truly know what a day’s going to bring, but…, that’s what makes it interesting. Sometimes the best moments come when you least expect them, and well, sometimes not.

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

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

What’s in That Chicken You’re Eating Here in Canada?

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Only On The Walters Post

I’ve been around farming most of my life, and I’ve learned to trust my gut when something doesn’t sit right. These days, I look at the way chickens are being raised for food, and I can’t help but feel something’s off.

Most chickens raised for meat today are grown to full size in just 35 to 45 days. That’s not natural. It used to take several months for a chicken to grow to a good weight. But now, they’ve been bred and fed in a way that makes them balloon up in record time. It’s not from hormones—Canada banned those in poultry back in the 1960s—but that doesn’t mean it’s all safe and sound.

These birds are raised indoors in massive barns, under artificial lights, with little room to move. Their feed is loaded with protein, additives, and supplements to speed up growth. The birds barely move, so all their energy goes into building meat, mostly in the breast. Some can hardly walk by the time they’re sent to slaughter. That’s how fast they grow.

They call it efficient. I call it concerning.

When an animal grows that fast, it changes the meat. Today’s chicken is softer, often full of water, and not as tasty as it used to be. The fat content is higher, and the muscle tissue breaks down easily. There’s something not quite right about that. And while they say the antibiotics are regulated, we all know what can happen when rules are bent or rushed in a big system.

I don’t believe food raised in a stressful, unnatural way can be good for us. Fast-grown meat might fill our plates, but what is it doing to our bodies over time? People today are dealing with more allergies, gut issues, and strange health problems than ever before. Could it be from eating food that’s been messed with too much?

You won’t hear this from the big companies. But the more I learn, the more I believe we’ve traded quality for speed and profits. And that never ends well.

If you want better meat, talk to your local farmers. Look for chickens that have been raised the old way—on pasture, with time to grow. It costs more, yes, but you’ll know what you’re eating. You’ll taste the difference too.

In the end, we are what we eat. And I don’t want to build my health out of birds that couldn’t even stand on their own legs.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Health

Onions: Health Benefits and How to Store Them the Right Way

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Only On The Walters Post

Onions have always been a must-have in the home, and there’s a lot more to them than just adding flavor to your meals. Personally, I like Honey Sweet onions, which have a much milder taste compared to stronger varieties like Spanish onions. I find these sweet onions nicer to eat raw. A slice of homemade bread with grass-fed butter and a hunk of aged cheese—now we’re talking.

How to Store Onions Properly

Once you’ve picked the right onion, storing it properly is key to keeping it fresh. After cutting an onion, wrap the leftover pieces in wax paper and place them in an airtight glass container in the fridge. This will preserve freshness without using plastic, which can trap moisture and cause onions to spoil faster. Avoid plastic wrap and plastic containers, as they aren’t the best for keeping food fresh.

When storing whole onions, you want to keep them in a cool, dry place like a pantry. They need ventilation, so make sure they’re not in a sealed plastic bag or the fridge, as this can cause them to turn soft quicker. A basket or open container works well for keeping onions fresh.

An Old-School Health Remedy: Onions to Combat Sickness

Here’s something I’ve used for years and swear by: if sickness strikes in the house, cut an onion in half and place it around different rooms. The idea is that the onion will draw in bacteria and viruses from the air, helping to clear the germs out of your space. Change the onion every couple of days and keep doing it until everyone’s feeling better. This old-school remedy might sound a bit odd, but it’s something that’s worked for me, especially during flu season.

Why Eating Onions Daily Is Good for Your Health

In addition to their immune-boosting effects when used around the house, onions are rich in nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants, both of which help support a healthy immune system. Eating them regularly—whether raw or cooked—can keep your body strong and ready to fight off common colds and the flu. Combine them with Vitamin D3, and you’ve got a powerful combination to stay healthy through flu season and beyond.

Onions are simple, but they’re a mighty tool in the kitchen and for health. Whether you’re using them for storage, remedying sickness, or adding them to your meals for a boost in nutrition, they’re worth incorporating into your daily routine.

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

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

Country Has a Way of Teaching You on April 17/2025

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Good Morning, Folks! I’ve found that positive thoughts are a lot like planting seeds—give ’em time, tend ’em right, and they’ll bloom when you least expect it.

She’s one fine-lookin’ morning here in Cottage Country. The sun’s finally got some heat to it, not just sittin’ up there for show. Feels good on the face. That kind of warmth makes a body think—energy’s not just in wires, it’s in the land, the trees, and us folks too.

Weather Forecast For Port Loring, Ontario, Canada:

Thursday, April 17
It’s a fine-lookin’ spring day out there. High around 51°F (10°C) and dropping to 35°F (2°C) tonight. A bit of cloud now and then, but the sun’s still showin’ up for work. No rain in sight, so it’s a good one for standin’ by a fence post, taking in what Nature has to offer.

Friday, April 18
Well, Friday’s bringin’ the rain with it. High around 57°F (14°C), low near 45°F (7°C). Looks like we’ll get about half an inch (13 mm) of rain through the day. Might be a good excuse to stay indoors, catch up on things other than outside work, and let the rain do the talking for a while.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making travelling mighty fine.

Yesterday, my lovely wife and I made the trip to the big city of North Bay to pick up some supplies. It turned out to be a great day—one of those that leaves you feelin’ good all over. We got what we needed, had lunch in the car, and spent some time watchin’ folks go by. Now, I’ll admit it—people-watching’ in the city can sometimes be a bit nosy, but who are we kiddin’? In small towns, it’s practically a pastime. We all do it, even if we won’t admit it out loud.

After that, we took the scenic route home—well, the only route we’ve got, since where we live, there’s just one way in and one way out. But it’s always a surprise, seeing something new every time we make the trip. Funny how the same road can offer up a new view each time.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well… first thing this morning, my wife and I are going to re-pile some firewood that fell over yesterday. It was under our lean-to, but the frost heaved it up over winter and, with the ground settling, it made a mess of the first row. We’ll get that fixed up here this morning, while the ground’s still a bit hard—saves us from walking in the mud. After that, we’ll get back to fixing up one of our side sheds and start putting things in it for our big spring sale in a few weeks. We’ve got a few other things planned too, but we’ll see how we feel after all that. Might need a bit of a rest.

With that I am off once again for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then head on outdoors, after our hot cocoa of course.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Tariffs and Tough Talk – Let’s Get Real

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Only On The Walters Post.

Now, some folks are hollering that Canada slapping tariffs on U.S. goods is going to hurt them. Well, that’s just not how the world works. Let’s face facts—Canada’s population isn’t even as big as California’s. So if we think putting a few extra charges on American imports is going to shake things up down there, we’ve got another thing coming.

Then there’s all this noise about pulling U.S. booze off our shelves like it’s going to make them think twice. That’s laughable. As if the U.S. is going to blink because Canada stopped stocking a few bottles of whiskey. All that’ll do is help out their own producers. They’ll just sell more of their own, and likely at a better margin.

Oil and gas? Same story. What we send them is a drop in the bucket compared to what they already have going on. We may think we’re holding a strong hand, but in the big picture, it’s not enough to make a dent.

Now, sure, there’s talk going around that the U.S. could see some bumps—things like higher prices and slower growth. Their own experts are saying that their tariffs on China are bigger than expected, and that’s making waves in their markets and raising the cost of borrowing. But here’s the thing—that’s their problem, not ours.

What we need to do in Canada is stop rattling the cage and start focusing on looking after our own. That’s what the U.S. is doing. They’re tightening up, watching their industries, and thinking about their future. Meanwhile, we’ve got folks stirring the pot and waving tariffs around like we’ve got all the leverage. Truth is, we don’t—not really.

And let’s be honest—politics is the same old song. One side runs the other down, then they switch places, and nothing really changes. At the end of the day, it’s just noise, and most of them are probably having drinks together after the cameras are off. Always been that way, always will.

So while people get all fired up over booze and border taxes, the real issues are slipping by. We’d be better off-putting our energy into fixing things at home and building something solid for the long run.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Why Canadians Aren’t Travelling to the U.S.

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Only On The Walters Post!

I came across an article talking about how fewer Canadians are heading down to the U.S. these days. Some folks are blaming tariffs, tighter border rules, or what the U.S. government is doing. But I think the real reason isn’t being talked about enough.

It’s not the Americans keeping us out—it’s our own economy here in Canada. Things are tight for a lot of people, and they’ve been tight for a while. The folks in charge haven’t done the job they were supposed to, and now we’re all paying the price. You can’t blame Americans for that.

Now, if you’re going to the States for more than 30 days, they want to know what you’re doing and who you’re going with. I see no problem with that. Makes sense, and if anything, Canada should be doing the same. I suspect we’ve got people in this country who shouldn’t be here, and maybe that’s part of the reason the U.S. is tightening things up.

And let’s be honest—if someone’s upset about being asked a few questions at the border, maybe they’ve got something to hide. Me? I’ve got nothing to worry about. If I travel down south, I’ll be glad it’s a bit quieter. Maybe prices in the sunny spots will drop enough that folks like me can afford a visit again. I say let the people who want to boycott stay home—more elbow room for the rest of us.

One thing I don’t like is seeing people in Canada take down the American flag in some towns. That’s just wrong in my books. A lot of communities, especially in places like Ontario, rely on American visitors. I’ve got good American friends, and we look forward to seeing them every summer. There’s no way I’m taking down the Stars and Stripes from flying next to our Maple Leaf—not now, not ever.

It’s not about politics. It’s about common sense, respect, and friendship. And if fewer folks are crossing the border these days, I think we’d better look at what’s happening in our own backyard before pointing fingers across the line.

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

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

A Small Note from the North on April 20/2025

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Good Morning! A slow start in the country still beats a fast pace in the city.

It’s a bit on the cool side this morning here in cottage country, and I have to admit, I’m not entirely thrilled with what I’m seeing outside my window. I won’t say exactly what it is—but let’s just say I’m not putting my snow shovel away anytime soon.

Weather Forecast Port Loring Ontario Canada:

Today – Tuesday, April 15th
Woke up to a cool one, sitting around 37°F (3°C), and it hasn’t warmed up much since. The kind of morning where the coffee needs to be extra strong. Rain’s been falling off and on, but now it’s got that look—y’know, where the flakes start to sneak in like they’re testing the waters. We might see somewhere between half an inch to just over an inch (1 to 3 cm) of the white stuff before day’s end. Winds are starting to pick up too, so keep the wood stove going if you’ve got one. I lit our wood furnace back up this morning. High of 40°F (5°C), low dropping to 25°F (-4°C) tonight.

Tomorrow – Wednesday, April 16th
Might be waking up to a dusting—just enough to make you second-guess putting those boots away. But the skies should clear up some, maybe even a peek of sunshine if we’re lucky. Still on the chilly side though, with a high around 42°F (5°C) and dropping to 22°F (-5°C) once the sun tucks in for the night.

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet these days, which isn’t all that surprising—and it’s carrying a bit of a wet shine to it this morning. So far, the snow isn’t sticking, but that could change as the day rolls on. Let’s hope it doesn’t. I think we’ve all had just about enough of Old Man Winter for one year.

On a different note, I spent the better part of yesterday right here at my desk, working away on the ol’ keyboard. Got five stories written, which made for a mighty fine writing day. The words just poured out, smooth and steady—like sap running on a warm spring morning. I sure love when that happens. I like to get ahead while the weather’s still dreary, ’cause once it warms up, I’d rather be out soaking up the sunshine than cooped up inside staring at a screen.

So, what am I up to today?

Well, seeing as the weather isn’t exactly inviting, I figure I’ll spend a bit more time writing up some stories. I’ve got to send in my weekly pieces to the folks I write for, which I’ll get to here in a minute. After that, I’ll sit down and enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. Then… well, I think a hot cup of cocoa is in order, followed by a nice chat with her.

She’s been busy as all get out for these past few months, sorting through household items for the big sale we’ve got coming up in a few weeks. That woman of mine never slows down, lucky to have her.

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

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

Today in Cottage Country: April 14, 2025, Through My Eyes

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Good Morning! When the wood stove is burning nicely and the coffee’s strong, even Mondays feel like old friends.

Weather Outlook for Port Loring, Ontario

Monday, April 14
A grey and damp day ahead. Light rain through the morning will carry on in patches through the afternoon, with the odd break here and there. Temperatures will rise to a high of 54°F (12°C) and settle down tonight to about 35°F (1°C). A good day to stay close to the fire, maybe catch up on a bit of work in the shop or house.

Tuesday, April 15
Tuesday brings some cooler weather with it, and a mix of rain and snow showers moving through. We could see snow amounts anywhere from 0.4 to 1.2 inches (1–3 cm), especially by late morning into the afternoon. Winds will pick up a bit, making it feel colder than the thermometer says. Daytime highs will hover near 40°F (4°C) and drop to 25°F (-4°C) by the time night rolls in. Might be another good day to keep the kettle warm and the wool socks close.

Highway 522 is wet this morning and pretty quiet, with hardly a car in sight. But then again, it is still early. Yesterday was a different story, with plenty of folks out and about. In any case, it is what it is—and best to enjoy the peace while it lasts. It won’t be long before folks start rolling in to open up their cottages, along with day-trippers wandering through, looking for things to see and do.

On another note, my wife and I spent most of the yesterday working outside. We got a lot done, though there’s still plenty left to tackle. But with the rain today, it looks like outdoor chores will be taking a back seat for now.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, like I mentioned earlier, there’s not much I can do outside with the rain coming down. But we’ve still got plenty to keep us busy indoors—mostly sorting through more things we’re planning to put out for sale next month. It’s shaping up to be one heck of a sale, let me tell ya—something for everyone, no matter the age or whether you’re a man or a woman.

And along with that on our list of things to get done, I just might sit myself down and write up another story or two. We’ll see how the day unfolds. Truth be told, my wife and I have a habit of starting out doing one thing and somehow ending up doing something completely different. No rhyme or reason around this house, that’s for sure.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared, and then I’ll let the day unfold as it will. It might not be the finest day weather-wise, but every new day holds possibilities—it all depends on what you make of it.

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

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

Coffee, Country, and Common Sense on April 13/2025

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Good Morning! If your porch chair’s got more stories than the news, you’re sittin’ in the right spot.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast
Sunday, April 13 – Monday, April 14, 2025

Today – Sunday, April 13
It’s a sunny start to the day here in Port Loring. Expect a high around 60°F (16°C) this afternoon. Winds will be light from the southwest, around 10 km/h. It’s a good day to get outside, maybe clean up the yard or go for a walk.

Tonight
Clear skies will stick around, with the temperature dropping to about 41°F (5°C) overnight. A cool but calm night.

Tomorrow – Monday, April 14
Monday will be much the same. A mix of sun and a few clouds, with a high near 63°F (17°C). Winds will be a bit stronger from the west at about 15 km/h. No rain expected, so it should be another decent day to be out and about.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this Sunday morning, making for good traveling for those heading to the larger towns for supplies.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I spent the morning outside cleaning out one of our side buildings. After lunch, I made a run to the dump, then settled in to watch the Masters Golf Tournament.

It was a great day of golf. Rory McIlroy lit up the course with a historic start—six straight holes of three or better, including two eagles and three birdies. He finished the third round with a 6-under 66, putting him at 12-under for the tournament and giving him a two-shot lead heading into today’s final round.

Right behind him is Bryson DeChambeau at 10-under, and not far off is our own Canadian, Corey Conner’s, sitting in third at 8-under. He’s been steady all week, and it sure would be something to see him make a strong run today. Ludvig Åberg and Patrick Reed are tied at 6-under going into the final round.

The final round of the Masters gets underway today around 9:40 a.m. Eastern, with the leaders teeing off a little later in the morning. You can catch the live coverage on CBS from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and it’s also available for streaming if you’ve got access to that.

As for the weather down in Augusta, Georgia, it’s looking just about perfect—sunny skies, a high around 68°F (20°C), light winds, and no rain in sight. Should make for a great day of golf.

I’m really looking forward to watching how it all plays out. Here’s hoping Conner’s keeps the Canadian flag flying high!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, this morning I’m planning to fix up one wall on one of our outbuildings—it’s seen better days. Once that’s done, I’ll start getting the inside organized so we can figure out where to place all the shop items we’re planning to sell or get rid of next month. That’ll likely keep me busy for most of the morning. After that, I’ll be settling in to watch the final round of the Masters—wouldn’t want to miss that.

So with that, I’m off once again to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store—besides what I’ve already planned. A new day means a new start, and after that… who really knows?

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Why Pork Deserves a Second Look: By GW

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Only On The Walters Post!

There’s a lot of noise these days about what we should and shouldn’t eat. Every week, it seems there’s a new study telling us to ditch this meat or that one. For a while, pork got thrown under the bus, and I think unfairly so.

Growing up, pork was a staple. Not just bacon and sausages, but pork chops, roasts, and hams—real meals that filled the belly and gave you energy to get back out in the field. And it tasted like something.

Nowadays, folks seem to think pork is either too fatty or too risky. But the truth is, it’s leaner than it used to be, and safer too. Cuts like pork loin, tenderloin, or even a well-trimmed shoulder roast are right up there with chicken when it comes to fat content—sometimes even better.

And here’s something most people don’t know: pork is packed with B vitamins, especially B1, which is hard to come by in other meats. It’s got iron and zinc too, and that matters for people our age who still want to keep the old engine running smooth.

Now, I’m not talking about cheap, processed stuff loaded with salt and mystery bits. I’m talking about real pork. The kind you raise yourself or buy from a farmer who treats his animals right and doesn’t pump them full of antibiotics. I’ve eaten that kind of pork most of my life, and I’ve never had a doctor tell me it was the problem.

Another plus? In Canada, they don’t allow hormones in pork. That’s more than I can say for some beef you’ll find in the cooler.

If you’re still worried about safety, just cook it properly. The old days of frying pork into shoe leather are gone. A nice roast brought to temperature and left to rest is moist, tender, and makes for good leftovers too. Add some garden carrots, a bit of onion, and maybe a side of potatoes—now that’s a meal.

Now I still like a good steak occasionally, and chicken has its place, sure. But don’t let the health fads fool you—pork, done right, is still one of the best meats you can eat. Affordable, flavorful, and full of the kind of nutrients that fuel real work. It’s the kind of meat that’s fed generations, and I say it still deserves a place at the table.

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.