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Good day from the North—where a man’s word still holds weight, and a handshake means more than any contract. But times are changing, so best tread carefully.

It’s a cloudy morning starting things off here in the country. The kind where the coffee’s hot, the wood-stove’s crackling, and the world feels just a little quieter. But don’t let that fool you—change is always rolling in, just like the weather.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

• Today: Cloudy with a chance of light snow or flurries. High around 30°F (-1°C).
• Tonight: Mostly cloudy, a few passing flurries possible. Low near 20°F (-7°C).
• Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, with a chilly breeze. High around 28°F (-2°C).
• Yeah, I’m still holding onto Fahrenheit. Folks say Celsius makes more sense, but truth be told, I never saw the logic in a system where 0 just means wet fingers and a bad mood.

Best keep the fire stoked and the kettle on—looks like winter’s still got a grip.

Highway 522 has some icy patches here and there, but if you’re needing a trip to the city, the roads should do ya fine—just keep a steady hand on the wheel. But let’s not forget, it is February, and around these parts, that means being ready for just about anything. One minute, it’s smooth sailing, and the next, you’re white-knuckling through a snow squall wondering if you should’ve packed an overnight bag. Let your guard down for even a second, and well… let’s just say, winter has a way of reminding you who’s really in charge.

You know-–Out here, a “quick trip” to the hardware store is never quick. You go in for a box of screws, and next thing you know, you’re stuck in a half-hour chat about the weather, last night’s game, and who’s been spotted with a new ATV. By the time you finally make it home, you’ve forgotten the screws but somehow ended up with a bag of peanuts and the freshest gossip in town.

On another note: Yesterday, I didn’t make it to the woodworking shop, but I did manage to get my new computer up and running, along with all the tools I need for writing my stories. Took most of the day to get everything squared away, but now that computer’s purring like a kitten. My son Karl calls it a beast—and it is, in the best way. Should be set for a few years, though with these modern gadgets, you never really know.

What are you up to today, GW? Well, if all goes according to plan, I’m hoping to get some more work done on those flutes I’ve been crafting for the past couple of weeks. There’s still plenty of tedious work left to do, but that’s just the way it goes with certain projects—requires patience and a steady hand.

So with that I’m off for my morning breakfast and our cup of hot cocoa, followed by the usual chat with my lovely wife. Then, I’ll let the day unfold around me—there’s always a few surprises lurking in the wings.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW