All posts by George Walters

What I Know, What I’ve Seen on April 12/2025

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Good Morning! I remember one time my Dad and I were chatting out by our barn. He went on to say: “George, you see that old barn? She’s been leanin’ into the wind for longer than either of us can remember—but she’s still standin’. That’s how you get old proper. You don’t fight every storm. Oh, life’s going to take a piece of you now and then—but don’t let it take more than it needs to.”

It’s a sunny morning wakin’ up here in the north, which is sure nice to see—even if there’s still a bit of a chill in the air. But give it an hour or so, and I figure things’ll start to warm up just fine.

Port Loring Weather Forecast

Today – Saturday, April 12, 2025:
Plenty of sunshine on the way.
High of 54°F (12°C), low near 28°F (-2°C).

Tomorrow – Sunday, April 13, 2025:
Clouds start rollin’ in later on.
High around 58°F (14°C), low about 39°F (4°C).

On another note, yesterday my wife and I once again worked the morning away and a good part of the afternoon, carryin’ things out to the old woodworking shop for our spring sale. I’ve gotta tell ya, folks—I never would’ve dreamt we had that much stuff tucked away. Simply amazin’.

Then, come afternoon, we settled in to watch the Masters Golf Tournament down in Augusta, Georgia. It was a great day all around.


Masters Golf Tournament – Second Round Highlights

After two rounds at Augusta, the leaderboard is shaping up for an exciting weekend:

  • Justin Rose leads the pack at 8-under-par after rounds of 65 and 71.
  • Bryson DeChambeau is just one stroke behind at 7-under, following rounds of 69 and 68.
  • Tied for third at 6-under are Rory McIlroy and Corey Conner’s, both with impressive performances.

Our very own Corey Conner’s from Canada shot a solid 70 in the second round, bringing his total to 138 (-6). A highlight of his day was nearly holing out with an incredible approach on No. 11.

The weather in Augusta today will be mostly sunny, with less than 30% cloud coverage throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 45°F (7°C). Humidity levels will range from 79% in the early morning to 36% by mid-afternoon, with a light breeze and no chance of rain.

The third round of the Masters Tournament is scheduled to begin at 9:50 a.m. Eastern Time (6:50 a.m. Pacific Time).

In Canada, you can watch the Masters live on TSN and CTV. Coverage for the third round begins at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (11 a.m. Pacific Time) on TSN3, TSN4, and CTV.

Enjoy the tournament!

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. After that, it’s time to get to work—I’ve got more cleaning up to do in the outbuilding by my shop. Once that’s cleared out, I’ll have more room for more stuff for the sale.

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

Canned Goods Are Climbing—But Maybe That’s a Good Thing?

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There’s been talk lately about canned food prices going up—some say by as much as 40 cents a can. It’s all tied to new tariffs on steel and aluminum, which are used to make the cans. As a result, food processors are facing higher costs, and of course, those extra charges will end up at the checkout counter.

Now, most folks will see this as bad news as, after all, grocery prices are already high enough. But I’ve been around long enough to know that sometimes, what seems like a problem at first glance, might turn out to be just the wake-up call we need.

For years now, people have filled their cupboards with processed and canned goods. Oh, they’re convenient, sure—but that convenience has come at a price. We’ve seen more health issues cropping up, and I don’t believe it’s a coincidence. You can’t live well on food that’s been sitting in a can for months, loaded with salt, sugar, and who knows what else. Back when people cooked with real ingredients and ate what they grew or bought fresh, folks generally felt better and lived stronger.

So maybe this price hike will push people to rethink what they’re eating. My way of thinking is, if it makes someone pause before grabbing another processed meal and instead reach for fresh vegetables or cook from scratch, that’s not such a bad outcome. It might even be the best thing that could happen in the long run.

Now, I’m not cheering for higher prices, and I’d never wish trouble on workers or families. But I do believe that good can come from hard times—especially if it brings us back to basics.

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

Same Old Tricks, Just Fancier Suits

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Back in my day, if a man made his living here in Canada, he paid his share here; and it didn’t matter if he ran a small shop or worked the land, he chipped in, so roads were maintained and kids had a school to go to.

Now it seems the more money a person makes, the better they are at dodging the rules the rest of us have to follow. Some of these big outfits move their profits through overseas offices that are little more than post boxes. They say it’s legal. Maybe so, but it sure doesn’t pass the smell test.

I may be an old hand, but I know when someone’s greasing the gears. They dress it up with fancy talk, but the scheme’s plain as day. Work the loopholes, stash the cash, smile for the cameras.

Meanwhile, folks who do honest work are left footing the bill. And the ones who helped write the rules now claim they want to fix them. That’s rich.

I won’t name names. No need, as the ones doing it know who they are, and so do we. All I’m saying is, it’s time we stopped falling for smooth talk and started paying attention to where the money goes.

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

What Life Taught Me While I Wasn’t Looking on April 11/2025

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Good Morning! When the coffeepot rattles on our old stove, you know it’s going to be a talkative day around here.

Well, it’s not as cold as it was yesterday, but you can still feel that bite in our northern air. And it’s still a might cold to do much front porch sittin’.

Now, here’s your weather for today and tomorrow in Port Loring, Ontario:

Today, April 11: A bit cloudy this morning, but it’ll clear up some as the day goes on. High of 47°F (8°C), Low of 28°F (-2°C).

Tomorrow, April 12: A sunny day ahead with plenty of blue skies. High of 54°F (12°C), Low of 28°F (-2°C).

Perfect weather to get out and about, but still a good idea to bundle up!

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make traveling good.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I spent the morning getting things ready for our big spring sale. We’re planning to unload years’ worth of items we no longer use, so it’ll be a massive garage sale! It’s going to take place sometime next month, and we’ll keep you posted on the exact dates once we have them.

On top of that, everything in our gift shop will also be for sale at unbeatable prices, so it’s not just your typical garage sale. You’ll find some real gems! Make sure to jot it down so you don’t forget to drop by once I give you the dates.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today my wife and I will continue on as we did yesterday, at least in the morning. In the afternoon, just like yesterday, we’ll be tuning in to watch the Masters golf tournament. I have to say, so far, it’s been a great game! Even our very own Corey Conner’s was in second place. Sure would be nice to see him win it, but we still have a long way to go yet.

As the day wrapped up, here are the standings for the top three at the Masters 2025:

  1. Justin Rose – A fantastic 7-under 65 performance put him in the lead with a three-shot advantage.
  2. Scottie Scheffler – He held steady and made a strong run to stay within striking distance in second.
  3. Corey Conner’s – He was tied for fourth with a solid 68, still very much in the hunt.

One of the highlights of the day was Fred Couples. He’s getting up there in years, but he’s still out there doing what he does best. His eagle on the 15th hole was a thing of beauty, proving he still has the magic touch!

And let’s not forget about the course itself. It’s looking great! The greens are smooth, the fairways are in top shape, and the trees are just beautiful. The whole place is a perfect picture of spring.

With three more days to go, today, tomorrow, and Sunday, it’s shaping up to be an exciting finish. Can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!

So, with that, I’m off for breakfast that my little woman has ready for me. After we enjoy our hot cup of cocoa and have our regular morning chat, I’ll get to work.

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

What We’re Really Buying From China here in Canada & the Hidden Cost of Convenience

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We’ve all heard folks talk about boycotting all kinds of different things. I’ve also seen people get riled up over American policies or political blunders. But we hardly ever talk about the real giant in the room, China, and just how deep our wallets are tied to theirs.

So let’s lay it out plain: here’s what China sells to Canada, and how much money we send their way for it.


Top Imports From China to Canada (2023)

  • Electronics (phones, TVs, tablets, etc.): $7.96 billion
  • Machinery (including computers): $7.03 billion
  • Vehicles (excluding trains): $3.65 billion
  • Furniture & Lighting: $3.11 billion
  • Plastics & Plastic Items: $2.44 billion
  • Steel & Iron Articles: $2.27 billion
  • Toys, Games, and Sports Gear: $1.74 billion
  • Knit Clothing (socks, underwear, etc.): $1.35 billion
  • Woven Apparel (jackets, pants, etc.): $1.04 billion
  • Aluminum Products: $1.03 billion

Notable Individual Items

  • Mobile Phones: $9.22 billion
  • Computers & Laptops: $6.56 billion
  • Passenger Vehicles: $2.64 billion
  • Vehicle Parts: $2.39 billion
  • Heaters & HVAC Units: $1.84 billion

The Everyday and Often Ignored

These smaller items are harder to track individually in dollar terms, but together they form a mountain: And I am sure there are many more.

  • Hair combs, elastics, brushes
  • Pens, crayons, pencils, erasers
  • Buttons, zippers, sewing kits
  • Umbrellas, plastic tarps, rain gear
  • Socks, scarves, gloves, hats
  • Kitchen gadgets, utensils, containers
  • Tools, flashlights, batteries
  • Toys in kids’ meals, party decorations
  • Lighters, nail clippers, razors
  • Eyeglasses, sunglasses, costume jewelry
  • Mops, sponges, cleaning cloths
  • Fake flowers, picture frames, wall art

Total Spent (2024): $49.2 Billion

That’s what we gave them in one year, which keeps our local makers, tool shops, and craftsmen out of business. And there’s been a lot more since.

Looking at that, it just goes to show ya, what could be made right here at home in Canada, if we get back to being self-reliant. Just imagine what that money we give to China could do for us right here at home. Will it happen? Well it would, and can if our Powers That Be, would open their eyes.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Where the Road Ends, Stories Begin on April 10/2025

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Good Morning! My old friend Grey Wolf used to say: “George, the sky doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor, it gives the same sunrise to all who look up.”

Here’s the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Thursday, April 10, 2025:

  • High: 45°F (7°C)
  • Low: 20°F (-6°C)
  • Conditions: Expect plenty of sunshine to stretch across the sky, but don’t forget to bundle up—those cool northern winds will keep things brisk. Perfect weather for a morning walk with a hot cup of coffee in hand.

Friday, April 11, 2025:

  • High: 46°F (8°C)
  • Low: 28°F (-2°C)
  • Conditions: A mix of sunshine and some clouds, giving you just enough time to get out and enjoy the fresh air before things cool off again at night. It’s the kind of day that calls for layers and a good pair of boots for that stroll down a quiet country road.

Looks like it’ll be a couple of crisp, refreshing days. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to keep that jacket close—spring’s still finding its footing up here.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for good traveling. So, if anyone is in need of supplies, it should be a great day to head off to the big city.

On another note: Yesterday, with the weather so nice, my wife and I decided to head into the big city of North Bay to pick up a few things, like groceries. We got everything taken care of, had our lunch in the car, and picked up a Starbucks coffee for the road home. The weather couldn’t have been better, and on the way back, we stopped for a visit with some good friends. All in all, it was a great day.

So what are you up to today GW

Well, once it warms up a bit today, my wife and I are going to get to work on preparations for the big spring sale we’re planning. We’ve already completed much of the prep work, but there’s still plenty to do, which will keep us busy this morning. Afterward, we’ll settle in to watch The Masters golf tournament, which starts today. We never miss it. The beautiful flowers, lush greens, fairways, and trees always get us into the spring spirit.

So with that, I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and will then head outdoors, well after our cup of hot cocoa and our regular morning chat. Although, in saying that, it should be noted we chat all the time, and you know what? We are damn good at it, too.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Where Every Word Still Counts on April 9/2025

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Good Morning! As my old friend Grey Wold Used to say: A crow’s call at dawn doesn’t need explaining, and neither do most things, if you’re paying attention.

Well—she’s a cold one here in cottage country this morning. When I crawled out of bed, the thermometer was sittin’ at -0.94°F | -18.3°C. So much for all that global warming stuff folks keep carryin’ on about.

Far as I’m concerned, the earth’s just doin’ what it’s always done. It’s been warming up and cooling down since the beginning of time. Sure, we might be making a bit of a mess with the way we live now, but the big picture? That’s Mother Nature’s work, she runs the show, not us. All them fanatics hollering about the end of the world every time it snows or rains a bit too much, well, they need to take a breath and look back at history.

Port Loring Weather Forecast

Today: A cold one, with a bit of sun, some cloud, and maybe a flurry or two.
High: 35°F | 2°C
Low Tonight: 15°F | -9°C

Tomorrow: A bit milder, with a bit more sunshine.
High: 43°F | 6°C
Low: 24°F | -5°C

You might want to toss another log on the fire and keep that coffee close. She’s still got some bite in her, but the warmer days are comin’.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make for some good travelin’—whether you’re heading into town for supplies or just making the weekly run to the dump. Yep, it’s Dump Day here in our little corner of the world—one of the more prestigious events on the calendar if you ask a few of the locals.

Some folks treat it like a social outing… wave to a neighbor, maybe compare who’s got the better load in the back of the truck. And if you’re real lucky, you might even spot someone sneakin’ something back from the dump. “One man’s trash,” as they say.

So, if you’ve been holding off getting rid of that busted toaster or that old chair with only one leg left, now’s your chance. Roads are good, sky’s clear, and the garbage gods are smiling.

On another note, yesterday me and my wife managed to get our driveway and decks cleared of snow. I have to tell ya, there was a lot of it. In some spots we had a good foot and a half. It took me and my wife the whole morning to get things cleaned up.

And I gotta tell ya, we were more than ready for our lunch and a couple cups of coffee when we were finished. After that, our two Lazy Boy chairs sure felt good. Slept good too.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s a bit on the cool side, so I’m thinkin’ I’ll sit down and write up another story or two and keep the home fires going. After yesterday, this old body of mine could sure use a bit of a rest.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has put together for me. After that, I’ll see what the day has in store. It might be cold, but that sun shining like she is sure makes it look nice outside.

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

Let the Working Man Keep His Pay

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It just don’t sit right with me, that every time a man works, puts in his hours, and then has to give part of it away before he even sees it. That’s not fair. The working man’s pay belongs to him, not the government.

The thing is, if folks could keep what they earn, they’d have enough to buy a decent home, fix up their truck, maybe even get the kids something useful like a new computer. They’d spend it in their communities. That’s how a country grows—not by taxing the hell out of the people who are actually doing the work.

Now, I’m not saying we shouldn’t help the ones who really need it. Seniors who’ve done their time, folks who’ve got serious health problems, yeah, we look after them. That’s just being decent. But the rest? If you’re able-bodied, you should be working. Simple as that.

We’ve built a system where it sometimes pays better to sit still than to put in an honest day’s work, well, that’s backwards. There’s work to be done, and a country like Canada should be built on effort, not entitlement.

And while we’re on the topic, we also need to have a hard look at how many people we’re bringing into the country right now. Immigration isn’t the problem, it’s how fast it’s happening. Canada’s always opened its doors to folks looking for a better life, and rightly so. But we’ve got to make sure we’ve got the homes, the doctors, and the schools to support them first. Right now, we don’t. And bringing in more people than we can house or care for, only makes things harder for everyone—newcomers and long-timers alike.

This isn’t about turning folks away, it’s about making sure the welcome mat isn’t just a cover for a trap door. Let’s get our infrastructure back on track, make sure our own people aren’t struggling, and then we can talk about how many more we can bring in responsibly.

At the end of the day, we need to stop rewarding idleness and start respecting effort. A fair day’s pay should stay in the worker’s hands, not be filtered through layers of government waste or stretched so thin that no one’s needs get met properly.

Some folks will call this harsh. But what’s harsher, telling someone they’ve got to earn their way, or telling a working man that even after doing everything right, it’s still not enough?

Again… let the man/woman keep their pay, they earned it. That’s fair, something we could use a bit more of around here.

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

Same Horse, Different Saddle

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You know, just a month back, you could hardly find a soul, with a kind word for the Liberals. Didn’t matter if you were sittin’ in a coffee shop, leaning on the counter at the feed store, or just jawin’ with friend and family. All that was on folks minds was that Trudeau was on his way out, and everyone was happy.

Fast-forward, here we are, not much time passed, and wouldn’t you know it, the same party, a different face, and folks now are humming a whole new tune. It’s like someone flipped a switch. Along comes Mark Carney with his smooth talk and big-city shine, and suddenly— it’s like the mess we just came through never happened.

The thing is, you can dress it up however you like, but it’s still the same old outfit underneath. Amazes me how some folks get dazzled by the wrapping, and forget to check what’s in the box.

And the real kicker? Most believe they’re makin’ up their own minds, when half the time, they’re just bein’ nudged along like cattle through a gate.

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

So who’s Really Visiting my Blog? Here’s the Straight Goods By GW

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I ran a check on Blog traffic using a tool called Go Access, that my son Karl set me up with, awhile back, nothing fancy—just a way to see who’s dropping by and what they’re looking at.

Here’s what’s happening for just one day, April 8, 2025:

  • Total Visits (Hits): 5,608
  • Unique Visitors (Real People): 2,979

That means almost 3,000 real folks came to read or browse. Not bots. Not search engines. “Real People!!

Bottom Line?

Nearly 3,000 in just one day. That’s no small potatoes.

So if you’ve ever shared my posts, commented, or just quietly read along—thank you. It means the stories I’ve been telling/writing, and the old ways I’ve been trying to preserve, are reaching people. And… that’s why I do this.


Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

From the Desk Where Stories Never Die on April 8/2025

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Good Morning! You know, the problem today isn’t a lack of knowledge, it’s an oversupply of nonsense.

Well, folks, old man winter has reappeared—at least in our neck of the woods.
Looking outside, I’d say we had a good foot, and in some places, closer to two feet, of fresh snow overnight. Just when we were getting ready to welcome spring proper, winter decided to show us it’s not quite done yet.

Weather Forecast – Port Loring, Ontario, Canada

Today (Tuesday, April 8):
Flurries in the morning tapering off as the day goes on. Skies will stay mostly cloudy, with a few sunny breaks possible this afternoon. Expect a high around 28°F (–2°C). Winds will be light, but enough to make it feel a touch colder. Total snowfall today is expected to stay under an inch (1 cm)—but we’ve already got plenty on the ground from before dawn.

Tonight:
Skies clear out, bringing a sharp drop in temperature. Low near 6°F (–14°C), with frost settling in wherever the wind hasn’t swept it clean. A good night to toss an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, April 9):
Mostly sunny, with a high of 34°F (1°C). Not a big warm-up, but enough to soften the snow on your boots by afternoon. Winds will stay light. Clear and cold again overnight, with lows dipping to around 17°F (–9°C).

So, if you’re headed outside, bundle up good, and keep that shovel handy.
Around here, winter doesn’t ask for permission before making itself at home, or so it seems lately.

Highway 522… well, it’s out there somewhere—
but you sure wouldn’t know it looking out the window this morning. It’s completely buried under a thick blanket of snow. You’d be hard-pressed to tell where the road ends and the fields begin. Travel’s not lookin’ too promising, I’ll tell ya that much.

It’s the kind of day when the smart ones stay put, maybe put on a fresh pot of coffee.

On another note:
Yesterday, with the weather bein’ what it was, my wife and I stayed put here at home. I spent most of the day tappin’ away at the keys, writing up a couple more stories. The words were flowin’ real nice, like sap on a warm spring day.

Meanwhile, my wife was busy as ever—tidyin’ up, cleanin’, and doin’ all the little things that keep a home runnin’ smooth. Let me tell ya, that woman of mine never stops.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, one thing’s for sure—there’s a mighty big pile of snow out there waitin’ for us. The decks and driveway are buried deep, and I suspect movin’ all that white stuff will keep us busy for most of the morning—maybe even into the afternoon. After that? Well, no-brainer there, as we’ll be more than ready to kick back and catch our breath.

But first things first, as right now I’m off to enjoy a plate of homemade waffles, courtesy of my lovely wife. She sure knows how to start the day off right. After that? We’ll see what the day brings.

Until the next time… keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Lessons from the Past

Only On The Walters Post!

We’re living in tough times, markets are dropping, tariffs are rising, and the world feels like it’s on edge. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that these kinds of storms aren’t new. We’ve been through hard times before, and we’ll face them again. The real question is: how do we handle it?

When the markets drop, people panic. They see the numbers and start selling off their investments, trying to save what they can. But while many are rushing to get out, the ones with the resources are quietly buying. They know the cycle, they know that after the storm, things will level out, and they’ll come out ahead. The game is set up this way—those with foresight win, while the rest are left holding nothing.

It’s frustrating, no doubt. The system often feels like it’s stacked against the everyday person. But that’s the lesson here: patience and resilience. The panic doesn’t win. The steady, long-term thinkers are the ones who get through the rough patches. It’s no different from what we’ve seen in farming and business: the hard work you put in today will pay off in the future, even if it doesn’t always look like it. I know my wife and I have been there.

In times like these, we need to remember what we’ve learned from the past. It’s not about waiting for someone else to fix things—it’s about relying on our own strength. We’ve got the tools, the wisdom, and the experience to weather this storm.

We can’t control the chaos, but we can control how we react. It’s time to focus on what really matters: our ability to stand strong, stay steady, and keep moving forward. We don’t need to depend on anyone else to pull us through. Or should we.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

Old Pages, New Perspectives on April 7/2025

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Good Morning! “You know, truth may be simple, but finding it these days is like looking for a needle in a haystack that keeps moving.”

It’s a cloudy morning here, waking up in our small community.

🌨️ Port Loring Weather – April 7 & 8, 2025

Today – Monday, April 7
We’re in for a snowy one.
Expect 6 to 12 inches of snow through the day, some of it heavy at times.
Winds are pickin’ up and blowin’ it around, so visibility could be poor.
It’s a chilly one, too — only getting up to about 37°F (3°C) during the day,
and tonight it’s droppin’ like a stone to around 8°F (-13°C).

Tomorrow – Tuesday, April 8
Still not much better. Snow and flurries hanging around in the morning.
Might see another 2 to 4 inches fall before it settles down.
High won’t get much above 28°F (-2°C),
and the low’s right down near 10°F (-12°C) again come nightfall.

No outside work yet — ground’s locked up tighter than a maple syrup barrel in January. Best to stay warm, maybe sip a mug of something hot, and let that ol’ snow do what it’s going to do.

Highway 522 is bare at the time of this post, but if we get what they say we are going to get, you might want to get your running around done early. “Better to be home wishin’ you’d gone out, than out wishin’ you were home.” A saying, Laura, the lady that raised me for a while, in my early years, used to say, when a storm was brewing.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I brought in a couple more wheelbarrow loads of firewood. With the cold settin’ in for the next few days and a storm threatening to roll through later today, I figured it was best to have a bit extra on hand — just in case.

That took up most of the morning, along with a few other odds and ends outside. The sun was out, and it felt good to get some fresh air while the weather was behaving.

In the afternoon, I sat down to write a story. Took me a bit longer than usual — the words just weren’t flowin’ the way I’d have liked. Some days are like that, no matter how long you’ve been at it. But I stuck with it, and in the end, it turned out pretty good. On a good day, I could’ve had it written up in half the time — but sometimes, a story’s gotta stew a little before it’s ready.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, earlier this morning I took some coals from my wood furnace to the old shop stove and got it goin’. Figured I’d try to get this old body of mine moving a bit and get a few things done out there later on. I’ve got a bit of a mess to clean up from what I was working on a couple of days ago — bits of wood here and there, tools sittin’ where I left ‘em, and the floor could use some sweeping.

It should be warming up in the shop nicely by the time I’ve had my breakfast. My lovely wife already has it made — smells real good too, I’ll be sittin’ down to it here in a minute or two.

A warm shop, a hot breakfast, and a few small jobs to tackle — sounds like a pretty decent start to the day if you ask me.

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

Tariffs, Truth, and the Price of a Car

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Lately, there’s been a lot of noise about car prices going up, and just like always, the blame is being tossed around like a hot potato. This time, they’re saying it’s because of a trade war, with tariffs flying back and forth between Canada and the U.S.

But let’s slow down and look at what’s really going on.

President Trump hasn’t slapped a 25% tariff on finished cars coming from Canada. That’s not what’s happening here. What he’s talking about, and has been pushing—is a tariff on imported auto parts, especially those coming from outside the U.S., like China or Mexico. So it’s not the whole car—it’s the pieces. Big difference.

Now, Canada didn’t just sit back. We fired back with our own counter-tariffs. If an American-made vehicle has parts that aren’t from Canada and it doesn’t meet the CUSMA rules, (Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement) that part of the vehicle gets hit with a 25% tariff on the way into Canada. That means things are getting tangled up fast.

So where does this leave the average working Canadian? Standing at the dealership, wondering why prices are climbing, when most of the cars were already overpriced before this nonsense started.

Truth is, there’s a glut of unsold vehicles. Lots are packed. Sales are soft. And they’re not soft because of tariffs, they’re soft because again… vehicles cost too damn much to begin with, and our economy is already hurting.

What we’re seeing now is just another excuse. Another way to quietly raise prices and blame someone else. And I’ll tell you, this isn’t about protecting industry, in my mind, it’s about protecting profit.

What we really need, plain and simple, is for the powers that be to stop taxing the paychecks of the working man and woman completely. Every time we turn around, there’s a new deduction, a new fee, a new excuse for why we can’t keep what we earn. It’s wrong. We are the ones keeping this country going, building, farming, fixing, teaching, raising families—-and we get punished for it, while the suits up top live off our backs without lifting a calloused finger.

Bottom line is this; Let a person keep “every” dollar they earn, and you’d see real change overnight. Folks would have more to spend, more to save, more to invest in their families and communities. Small businesses would thrive and local economies would pick up steam. That’s how you build a strong nation folks—not by squeezing the life out of the very people holding it together.

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

Another Day, Another Quiet Start Here in the Pines on March 6/2025

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Good Morning! You know, I figure the problem with a lot of folks here in Canada these days, isn’t just a lack of knowledge… it’s that what little they do know is buried under a mountain of nonsense. And truth be told, a good chunk of that mountain’s been stacked up by the very folks who are supposed to be leading us—our politicians.

Port Loring, Ontario – Sunday, April 6, 2025

Well, here we are. .April’s on the calendar, but winter’s still clinging’ to the edges. As of this morning, Port Loring’s sitting at a brisk 34°F (1°C) under partly sunny skies. Here’s how the week’s looking if you’re planning your chores, travel, or just deciding whether or not to fire up the wood-stove again.


Forecast

Today – Sunday, April 6
High: 39°F (4°C) | Low: 25°F (-4°C)
A chilly day with low clouds hanging around. The sun might poke through now and then, but it won’t be bringing much warmth. A good day for shop work, or???

Monday, April 7
High: 36°F (2°C) | Low: 10°F (-12°C)
Heavy snow’s on the horizon and we can expect 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm). Also some colder weather will follow in behind it, so keep the shovel handy.

Tuesday, April 8
High: 28°F (-2°C) | Low: 8°F (-13°C)
Cloudy and very cold. The kind of cold that makes you hesitate at the door.

Wednesday, April 9
High: 37°F (3°C) | Low: 19°F (-7°C)
Mostly sunny but still well below normal. That sunshine’s more for show than warmth. So best bundle up and enjoy the light, but don’t leave your coat at home.

Thursday, April 10
High: 45°F (7°C) | Low: 24°F (-4°C)
Partly sunny and beginning to ease up. Might start to feel like spring is thinking about showing up, even if it’s still shy.

Friday, April 11
High: 50°F (10°C) | Low: 33°F (1°C)
Mostly sunny and milder–finally something close to seasonal. This will be the day to stretch your legs, maybe even sweep off the porch for good.

Saturday, April 12
High: 50°F (10°C) | Low: 32°F (0°C)
Bright sunshine and warming-up right where it should be.


April in Port Loring – A Bit of History

On average, Port Loring sees daytime highs near 50°F (10°C) and lows around 29°F (-2°C) for April. Precipitation’s a regular guest, with around 12 days bringing rain or snow, totaling close to 3.5 inches (87 mm). In other words–expect mud, a stubborn bit of snow, and enough chill to keep the garden covered just a little longer.


A Few Words of Wisdom

Best be dressing in layers this week, GW-style...long handles underneath, rain coat up top, and maybe keep a second pair of gloves in the truck. That snow on Monday won’t last forever, but it’s coming, and the cold behind it means you’ll feel it in your knuckles.

But again–by the end of the week, we’re heading into better weather, more sun, more warmth, and maybe the first real breath of spring.

On another note, the weather kept me indoors yesterday so I spent the better part of it here at my computer. The words came easy, and I ended up writing a couple more stories for the folks I send work to at Postmedia. Always gives me a warm feeling inside when an egg of an idea starts to crack open—but it never feels truly hatched until it’s been shared with the world.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, with the sun shining and me feeling not too bad-once it warms up a bit, I’m thinking I might head out and do a little work in my old woodworking shop. But for now, with the air still holding a bit of a chill, I’m staying put here at my computer. If I’m lucky, I might even manage to write up another story or two. We’ll just have to see how things pan out.

Truth be told, I never honestly know what I’m going to do from one day to the next. I make plans, but over the years, I’ve come to realize that plans are often made to be broken- and most times, that’s not such a bad thing.

And with that, I’m off to enjoy my morning breakfast—once again made by my lovely wife. After that, well, I’ll get to doing something-eventually. But whatever the day brings will just have to wait until we’ve had our regular morning chat over a hot cup of cocoa. Wouldn’t want to miss that for anything.

Truth is, a day without my sunshine—my lovely wife—just wouldn’t feel right. She brightens every morning in a way no sunrise ever could, and I wouldn’t trade that for all the plans in the world. Hmm you think that last remark might just get me a piece of cake to go with that cup of hot cocoa???

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

Notes Left Beside the Coffee Cup on March 5/2025

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Good morning. I’ve said it for years, and I’ll say it again… opinions are everywhere, but real wisdom? That’s getting mighty scarce these days, especially here in Canada.

Here’s how the weather’s shaping up for us today here in the North:

Today, Saturday, we’re expecting a mostly cloudy day with a few light showers now and then. The high will be around 44°F (7°C) and dipping to about 27°F (-3°C) overnight.

Tomorrow, Sunday, more clouds are on the way with a high near 39°F (4°C) and another nighttime low around 27°F (-3°C).

Oh and once again... I’ve always used Fahrenheit, and that’s the way it’s gonna stay. It’s what I grew up with, it’s what works, and it tells me what I need to know without any fuss. I honestly don’t care what political bunch, or government outfit decided Celsius was better, and it sure wasn’t done for folks like me. I’ve lived long enough to know you don’t toss out common sense just because someone with a title calls it progress. Thought I would toss that into the ring this morning for us old timers. Ha

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, making for a decent run if you’re headin’ to the big city for supplies. However, it might not stay that way all day though… as they’re calling’ for a bit of rain later on, so best not to dawdle if you’ve got things to do. And with spring setting in, there’s more critter movement than usual—especially deer, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the ditches and tree lines. One wrong move from them, and you’ve got more than the price of groceries to worry about.

On another note, my wife and I spent the whole day outside yesterday, working’ away like a couple of old Clydesdale Horses, getting things ready for our big spring sale. We managed to fix up a spot to start piling everything we’ve got for sale… which, at this point, is just about everything but the kitchen sink. Although, now that I think on it, we might have one of those kickin’ around too, if I dig deep enough. Either way, it was a productive day, and the kind that makes you sleep real good, and with your body letting’ you know it worked hard.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, today, since the weather’s not exactly playing nice, I’m planning on writing up another story or two. In between, I’ll probably sneak into the woodworking shop to break things up a bit and get the old body moving. As the saying goes, the older you get, the worse thing you can do is sit too long. You let yourself get stiff, and next thing you know, it’s harder to get up, than it was to sit down. So, a little work, a little writing, it keeps the gears turning and the joints from rustin’.

Oh and once again before I go: It’s high time we stopped taking’ any taxes out of the working man’s paycheck. People are barely getting by as it is, and every time that check comes in, it’s like a chunk’s already been taken before they’ve even had a chance to see it. These politicians, they hide behind things like this, thinking folks won’t notice. Well, we do. It’s about time they stop skimming off the top and let the people keep what they earn. They’ve got their cushy jobs and fancy suits… how much more do they need?

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, once again made by my lovely wife. Hmm, I think I’ll have an extra cup of hot cocoa this morning, along with our regular morning chat, of course.

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

Stories That Haven’t Lost Their Shine on April 4/2025

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Good Morning! You know a Wise Man Once Said, “‘The Truth Will Set You Free’—But First, It’ll Probably Annoy You.”

For a change, we’re all waking up to sunshine here in the north. The day starts off bright with temperatures around 34°F (1°C). As we move into the afternoon, expect partly sunny skies with the mercury climbing to a high of 48°F (9°C). As night falls, temperatures will dip to a low of 35°F (2°C).​

Come Saturday, the skies will turn cloudy, bringing along a couple of showers. The daytime high will be around 46°F (8°C), so keep your rain gear handy if you’re planning to be outdoors. By night, temperatures will drop to a chilly 28°F (-2°C), so best to stoke the fire and keep warm.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, and let’s hope it stays that way. Things have been quiet, which is about right for this time of year. But it won’t be long before the cottagers start rolling in to open up their places for the summer. After that, the boats will start showing up on the lakes and rivers, and not long after that, the tourists will be arriving.

I’ve got a hunch this year might be a good one for tourism. The price of gas is lower than it’s been in quite a few years, and that alone could encourage folks to hit the road a little more. That’ll put a smile on the faces of the local business owners, that’s for sure.

But… like always, we’ll just have to wait and see how it all pans out. The human mind? Well, it works in mysterious ways now and then.

On another note, I did manage to get a bit of work done outside yesterday. With my wife’s help, we hauled in a few more wheelbarrow loads of firewood for the wood furnace. Figured we might as well save on oil, especially with what it costs to fill that tank these days. We topped ours up, and it wasn’t even empty, yet the bill came to $1,040.00.

You know, years ago, that kind of money could’ve bought a brand-new truck. It’s hard to wrap your head around how far things have drifted.

And the part that really gets me is this—we’ve got the resources right here in our own country. Oil, gas, you name it. Yet we’re still being gouged like we’re importing it from halfway around the world. You’d think they’d cut the locals a bit of slack. But no, our own companies seem more interested in lining their pockets than looking out for the folks who keep this country running.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, today… seeing as things are warming up and the sun is shining, I figure it might be a good one to tackle some more outside chores. We’ve got that big spring sale coming up in a month or so, and there’s still a pile of things that need doing. Should keep us out of trouble for most of the day… or at least until I run out of steam.

Mind you, if today turns out anything like yesterday with us hauling in firewood, I might be needing a nap by noon. Funny how that works, as back in the day, I could work circles around the clock. Now however, I bend down to tie my boots and wonder if that counts as stretching.

And these so-called “golden years”… I often wonder who came up with that phrase. Must’ve been one of those politicians… likely one who’s never lifted anything heavier than a coffee cup and a campaign promise.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and we will then see what the day has in store.

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

The Old Typewriter Still Talks on April 3/2025

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Good Morning! With what’s happening here in Canada, the older I get, the more I understand why my Grandfather just sat and shook his head.

Here’s what’s on the way for Port Loring:

Today: Well she’s foggy this morning here in the North, a cool start with that damp fog hanging around, but as the day rolls on, the sun will make an appearance. We will also see a bit of a breeze, but nothing too wild. Highs will reach around 45°F (7°C).

Tonight: Partly cloudy and chilly, dropping to 25°F (-4°C). If you’re out late, better have a warm jacket.

Tomorrow: A touch warmer, with some sunshine and a light breeze. Highs around 49°F (10°C), and tomorrow night will be a little milder at 34°F (1°C).

Spring’s still waking up folks, but at least we’re headed in the right direction. Once that fog clears, might be a good afternoon to get outside for a bit.

Highway 522 is bare but wet this morning, so if you’re heading to the big city, the roads shouldn’t give you too much trouble… just watch out for the odd puddle trying to swallow your tires. They come up on ya fast. As for us, well, we’ve got pretty much everything we need right here, so I don’t figure we’ll be venturing too far. Hell no sense running to town just to stare at things we don’t need. Besides, the coffee’s hot, the fire’s warm, and the world ain’t going anywhere.

The Truth: You ever stop and think about how much of your paycheck ends up in the government’s hands? It’s like they’ve got their mitts in your pocket before you even get to take a good breath! They don’t work for it, don’t earn it, and yet, somehow, they think it’s theirs to take.

It’s like you’re out there busting your back in the fields, hauling the load, and then the government shows up and says, “We’ll take half of your paycheck… thanks for the hard work!” They didn’t lift a finger to earn it, but somehow, it’s their money. We are already paying enough taxes, without them grabbing half of what we earn.

They didn’t sweat it, they didn’t break their backs for it…so why in hell should they take it? Remove the damn taxes on the working mans paycheck, do that and you will see this country flourish.

Yesterday, I spent the day working away in front of my computer…well, it’s not exactly old anymore, thanks to my son Karl, who fixed me up with a new one, not a cheap one mind ya but a darn good one. Any way, I did manage to get two good stories written, stories that I’m sure will catch someone’s attention when they get published in the coming days. My writing covers all kinds of things, life in general, my experiences, and my views on everything from the little things to the big stuff. You never really know what I’ll write about next, and that’s part of what people seem to enjoy.

I’ve been writing for newspapers for over thirty years now, including one of the largest in Canada, and I can tell ya, I’m just as excited to see my stories published today as I was back then. And the feedback I get… whether it’s phone calls, emails, or folks stopping by, really means a lot. What it does is: It lets me know that what I’m doing is connecting with folks, and I’m grateful for every bit of it. Your support and kind words keep me going, and I truly appreciate it.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, my wife and I were planning to get a start on some outside work today, moving things around for our big spring sale, but right now the weather’s not exactly cooperating. Looks like that’ll have to wait. For now, I suppose I’ll stick around here at my computer. If the words decide to flow, I might crank out another story. But if the sun decides to show up, I’ll set the writing aside and head out to tackle a few things in my old woodworking shop.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman’s made for me. After that, we’ll enjoy a warm cup of cocoa together and have our usual morning chat. Pretty hard life, huh?

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

Lines from a Life Well-Lived on April 2/2025

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Good Morning! You know…. It’s funny how the truth is always there, but folks prefer the stories they make up instead.

She sure is a fine-looking morning up here in the north, But don’t let her good looks fool you, as she’s got a mean streak coming later today. They’re calling for some nasty weather rolling in, with a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain set to make life interesting. By tonight, the roads might turn into a skating rink.

Forecast Us Here in The North

Today (Wednesday, April 2):

High: 35°F (2°C)​

Conditions: Cloudy and breezy with periods of snow, sleet, and freezing rain developing this afternoon. Accumulations of 1-3 cm are possible, making untreated roads slippery.​

Tonight:

Low: 29°F (-2°C)​
Conditions: Continued precipitation with freezing rain transitioning to drizzle or light rain as temperatures rise overnight.​

Tomorrow (Thursday, April 3):

High: 50°F (10°C)​
Low: 27°F (-3°C)​

Conditions: Breezy and milder. Morning low clouds will give way to sunshine and areas of high clouds later in the day.

So all an all, we’ve got some not-so-good news weather-wise today, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain rolling in, but the good news is that tomorrow’s looking a lot better! Temperatures are warming up, and we might even see a little sunshine. Kinda like me… handsome as all get-out, a little rough around the edges, but still kicking, and I warm up just fine with a little sunshine too. Ha!

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, so traveling should be pretty good for now. But don’t let that fool you, keep an eye on what’s coming, and don’t wander too far from home. Reason being with the weather they’re calling for, things could turn tricky on the roads before too long.

So, yesterday, with the weather being pretty good and lots of sunshine, my wife and I decided to head into the big city of North Bay to pick up a few supplies. All in all, it was a great day. We had a meal out, did our shopping, grabbed a coffee, and enjoyed nature, and each other’s company. What could be better than that? Not much in my books… unless, of course, someone else was doing the shopping for us and paying for the meal too. Ha!

So What Are You Up To Today GW?

Well, today being my birthday—yep, this old timer made it to another one, so I’m thinking I’ll take it easy after yesterday’s trip to town. It seems I need a little time to wind down the next day for some reason. Not sure why that is, but at any rate, I think I’ll write up a story or two for my columns this morning, and if the weather holds out, I might make a dump run this afternoon. We’ll see how that works out.

Now, that’s the plan, but one never knows what a day might bring. Heck, at my age, I’m just happy I made it through another year without breaking anything important. And I’m not talking about my car! Ha! So here’s to another trip around the sun….let’s see if I can still make it to the next one without needing a map to find my way!

With that, I’m off for my breakfast, which, as always, my lovely wife has made for me. And after that, well, we’ll see what mischief I can get into… at least, that’s what my wife says. She knows me too well! Ha!

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