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Good Morning! The day’s like a blank page—ready for whatever story you write on it.
It’s another cold morning here in the north, but not as cold as it was yesterday. At -21.3°C (-6.34°F) getting out of bed wasn’t easy, but we northerners are used to mornings like this—it’s just part of life up here.
Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:
Today: It’ll be a cold one, but the sun will peek out now and then, trying its best to warm things up. The high will reach around -12°C (10°F), so it’s not exactly a heatwave, but it’s a step in the right direction. The winds will stay light, which is a good thing—no need for frostbite sneaking up on you.
Tonight: The skies will clear right up, and temperatures will dip back down to around -20°C (-4°F). A good night to stay indoors where it’s warm. If you’ve got to go out, make sure to bundle up good and tight.
Tomorrow: Another cold start to the day, but it’ll warm up slightly with a high near -10°C (14°F). Plenty of sunshine to keep things bright, even if it doesn’t do much for the thermometer. A light breeze might remind you winter’s still got a firm grip on things.
Days like these remind me of how tough we have to be to live up here, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Stay warm and keep a pot of coffee on—you’ll need it!
Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning, making traveling a bit of an adventure. For those determined souls heading off to the city for supplies, take it slow and steady—you’re not in a race, and the grocery store isn’t running away. Around here, we know the old saying holds true: “Better to be late than to end up in the ditch explaining to your better half why you didn’t listen to the forecast.”
Speaking of taking it slow, keep an eye out for deer. The last time we went to town, there seemed to be more of them than folks at the coffee shop on a Saturday morning. And it should be noted that they’ve got a habit of appearing out of nowhere, and if you see one, you can bet there’s another not too far behind. Around here, we call it “deer roulette,” and trust me, it’s not a game you want to win. So keep your eyes peeled and your foot light on the gas.
I’ve also noticed there still aren’t all that many snowmobiles buzzing around just yet. Of course, the trails haven’t been groomed, so that likely explains it. But with February just around the corner, I’d imagine they’ll be getting to it soon. After all, once March rolls in, the warmer weather isn’t far behind, and the snow starts to get softer than a fresh-baked loaf of bread.
That doesn’t leave the sledders much time to get out there and enjoy the trails, but that’s the way it goes around here these days—winter sneaks in slow, and before you know it, it’s packing up and heading out. Hopefully, the groomers get moving soon so folks can make the most of what’s left of the season. Because if there’s one thing we northerners know, it’s that you’ve got to grab the good days while you can.—well, at least some of us northerners.
On another note, with it being so cold yesterday, I didn’t spend much time in the woodworking shop. Instead, I stayed put here at my desk, working away on something that’s been on my mind for a while now. I was planning to edit another video for my YouTube channel, but as often happens, I got to thinking about all the stories I’ve written over the years. Before I knew it, I’d decided it was time to start putting together my eighth book.
To be honest, I’ve got enough stories to fill three more books if I put my mind to it. Over the past four years, I’ve had so many folks asking, “When’s the next one coming out?” It’s been humbling, to say the least, knowing there are folks out there who enjoy reading my work. It’s those kind words and nudges that keep me going, even on the days when it feels like I’ve written all there is to write.
These books aren’t just stories; they’re pieces of life—my life, your life, the kind of tales that stick with you. Some will make you chuckle, some might make you think, and others might remind you of days gone by. For me, writing isn’t about rushing to finish something; it’s about putting a little piece of myself on each page.
So, if you’re one of those folks who’ve been waiting, sit tight—it’s coming. And if you’ve got a spot on your bookshelf that’s been waiting, I promise it’ll be worth the wait. These stories aren’t just about life here in the north; they’re about the moments that connect us all, no matter where we call home. They’re for anyone who’s ever paused to appreciate the simple things, shared a laugh over coffee, or felt the pull of a good tale that stays with you long after the last page.
With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me—she always knows how to start the day right. After that, I’ll be diving back into work on my new book, which will feature 50 of my favorite short stories. Each one has already been published in newspapers across Canada, enjoyed by folks from coast to coast. It’s a collection of memories, moments, and musings that I hope will bring a bit of joy, a chuckle, or even some reflection to those who read it. Time to get at it—this book isn’t going to write itself!
Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW