The Enshittification of PayPal, and why I got rid of it.

Over the past year, I’ve reached a breaking point with PayPal, and today, I’ve decided to walk away from the platform entirely.

The issue began when a charge from McAfee appeared on my account, despite the fact that I had already canceled the subscription. Even more concerning, the payment was processed through PayPal without my approval. At no point was I asked to confirm the transaction, nor was I given an opportunity to block it before the funds were taken directly from my linked bank account.

This experience raised serious concerns for me. Financial platforms are built on trust, and when money can be withdrawn without clear authorization, that trust is eroded. I no longer feel comfortable allowing PayPal to have access to my banking information under these conditions.

Compounding the issue is the steady decline in the quality of PayPal’s service over the years. Both the website and the mobile app have become increasingly difficult to use: Poorly designed, slower, more cluttered, and less intuitive than they once were. This gradual degradation reflects a broader trend often referred to as “enshittification”. If you're not familiar with Enshittification it is where platforms prioritize monetization and control at the expense of user experience, often while making the product more expensive.

Taken together, these issues have made my decision clear. Between unauthorized transactions and a declining user interface, PayPal no longer meets the standard I expect from a financial service.

As of today, I am closing my PayPal account.

Instead in the future I will managing payments via Interac E-Transfers, etc.

 

 

 

Boxing Week Book Sale: Fantasy Books by Charles Moffat

 

Did you know that Boxing Week is one of the best weeks of the year to buy books?

Many authors, especially indie authors, put their books on sale between December 26th and January 1st.

It is also the best week to get Freebies (usually short fiction or the first book in a series).

Case in point:

Charles Moffat, the fantasy author, has many of his ebooks on sale currently and many of his short stories are currently free. Just visit the site below to browse which books are free and which ones are on sale. Especially if you love reading heroic fantasy books.

amazon.com/author/moffat

And you can browse other fantasy authors by visiting ArcaneTomes.Org to find indie fantasy authors, many of whom also likely have their books on sale and/or free during Boxing Week.

https://www.arcanetomes.org

The Great Canadian Staycation

Looking to stay in Canada this year instead of visiting the USA??? 

Here's a solid list of tourism activities you can do in Canada instead of heading to the U.S., and honestly, a lot of these are just as good (or better):

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Explore the Rockies in Banff National Park – hiking, turquoise lakes, mountain views

Visit Jasper National Park for wildlife spotting and dark-sky stargazing

Walk the cliffs and beaches of Cape Breton Highlands National Park

See polar bears in Churchill Manitoba

Go whale watching off Vancouver Island

City Experiences

Spend a weekend in Montreal – festivals, food, old-world architecture

Explore historic streets and waterfront in Quebec City

Enjoy museums, theatre, and food in Toronto

Visit the coastal charm of Halifax

Unique Canadian Journeys

Take a scenic train trip on VIA Rail across the country

Drive the Cabot Trail for one of the best road trips in North America

Explore the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper

Adventure & Wilderness

Canoe in Algonquin Provincial Park

Go backcountry camping in Kluane National Park and Reserve

Experience the Northern Lights in Yellowknife

Relaxation & Scenic Spots

Visit Prince Edward Island National Park for beaches and red sand cliffs

Tour the wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Relax in the mountain town of Whistler

Culture & Festivals

Attend the Calgary Stampede

Experience winter festivities at Winterlude

Go to the Just for Laughs Festival

History & Heritage

Walk through Old Quebec (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Visit L'Anse aux Meadows

Explore Parliament Hill in Ottawa

Water-Based Activities

Cruise the Thousand Islands (on the Canadian side of the border)

Kayak along the Bay of Fundy (world's highest tides)

Fish in remote northern lakes across Ontario or Manitoba

Winter Experiences

Ski in Whistler Blackcomb

Dog sledding in Yukon

Ice skate on the Rideau Canal

You don't actually need to cross the border to get world-class experiences. Canada has everything: Mountains, oceans, culture, wildlife, and history, often with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.

If anything, skipping the U.S. trip might just lead you to discover places you didn't even realize were in your own backyard.

Why Canadian Accessories are Just Better

If you’ve been trying to take the whole “buy Canadian” idea a bit more seriously, one thing you’ll notice pretty quickly is that there’s no shortage of accessory brands—you just don’t hear about them as much as the big global names.

Once you start digging, though, a few stand out right away.

Take Roots, for example. It’s one of the most recognizable Canadian brands, and for good reason. Their leather bags, wallets, and small accessories are built with that classic, slightly rugged style that actually holds up over time. You’re not buying something trendy—you’re buying something that feels like it’ll still be around in ten years.

Then there’s Matt & Nat (often written as Mat and Nat), which goes in a completely different direction. If you prefer vegan materials, this is probably the first name you’ll come across. They’ve been around since the ‘90s and were early adopters of recycled materials, which shows in both the design and the philosophy behind the brand.

If you want something a bit more modern and everyday, Herschel Supply Co. is hard to ignore. Their backpacks and wallets are everywhere for a reason—they’re simple, functional, and don’t overcomplicate things. It’s the kind of brand you end up using daily without really thinking about it, which is honestly a good sign.

On the more design-focused side, brands like Ela and Pixie Mood are worth a look. Ela leans into clean, practical bags with a bit of style, while Pixie Mood focuses heavily on sustainability, using recycled materials and keeping everything cruelty-free. Both hit that sweet spot between affordability and design without feeling cheap.

If you’re looking for something a bit more premium, m0851 is one of those brands that flies under the radar but probably shouldn’t. They’ve been making leather goods out of Montreal for decades, and the focus is clearly on craftsmanship—less hype, more substance.

And then there are smaller or less mainstream names like Venque, Barrelhead Leather, and Erin Templeton. These are the kinds of brands you stumble across and immediately feel like you’ve found something different—more handmade, more intentional, less mass-produced.

What ties all of these together is that they don’t feel disposable. Whether it’s a backpack, a wallet, or a leather bag, there’s a noticeable shift toward durability and thoughtful design. You’re not just cycling through cheap accessories every year—you’re actually using something that was built to last.

Of course, you’ll sometimes pay a bit more upfront. That part hasn’t changed. But once you’ve used a few of these brands, the difference becomes pretty obvious.

At that point, it stops feeling like you’re going out of your way to “buy Canadian.” It just feels like you’re buying better stuff.

Where to find indie fantasy books? Try ArcaneTomes.Org

If you’re into fantasy books, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like to admit trying to find something actually worth reading. Between algorithm-driven recommendations and endless lists that all look the same, it can start to feel like you’re just being funneled toward whatever is popular rather than what’s genuinely interesting.

That’s where ArcaneTomes.Org stands out.

Right away, the site feels like it was built by people who actually care about fantasy—not just as a genre, but as a craft. Instead of pushing the same recycled bestsellers, it leans into discovery. You’ll come across lesser-known titles, older works that deserve a second look, and unique stories that don’t fit neatly into the usual categories.

What makes it especially enjoyable to browse is the way it’s organized. It doesn’t feel cluttered or overly “optimized” the way a lot of modern websites do. You’re not fighting pop-ups, autoplay videos, or endless distractions. You can actually focus on the books themselves, which is surprisingly rare these days.

There’s also a sense of personality behind it. The recommendations don’t read like they were generated by an algorithm—they feel curated. Whether you’re into classic sword-and-sorcery, darker fantasy, or more experimental storytelling, the site gives you the sense that someone has taken the time to sift through the noise and highlight what’s genuinely worth your attention.

Another thing you’ll notice is how easy it is to fall down the rabbit hole. You might show up looking for one book, and an hour later you’ve got a whole list of titles you’ve never heard of but suddenly want to read. That kind of organic discovery is something most big platforms have completely lost.

At the end of the day, ArcaneTomes.Org feels like the kind of site the internet used to have more of—focused, passionate, and built around a genuine interest rather than just engagement metrics. If you enjoy fantasy and want a better way to find your next read, it’s absolutely worth spending some time there.

 

 

The Buy Canada Movement

Lately, you’ve likely been hearing a lot more about the “Buy Canada Movement,” and this time it’s not just some abstract idea—it’s being driven by very real economic pressure, particularly from the United States.

A big part of the renewed attention comes down to tariffs pushed by Donald Trump and his administration. These tariffs, aimed at protecting American industries, have had ripple effects beyond U.S. borders. For Canadians, they’ve created frustration and, in some cases, real economic harm—especially in sectors like steel, aluminum, and manufacturing. When another country makes it more expensive or difficult for your businesses to compete, it forces a response.

That response, for many people, is simple: if the system is going to be stacked against Canadian producers, then you start making a conscious effort to support your own.

That’s where the Buy Canada Movement comes in. At its core, it’s about choosing Canadian-made goods and Canadian-based companies whenever possible. But now, there’s an added layer of motivation behind it. It’s not just about local pride or economic theory—it’s about pushing back, in a practical way, against policies that put Canadian businesses at a disadvantage.

This reframes the whole idea. It’s no longer just about “support local” as a feel-good slogan. It becomes a kind of everyday economic decision-making with a bit of backbone behind it. Where you spend your money starts to feel like it actually matters on a larger scale.

Of course, it’s not always easy. Canadian products can cost more, and sometimes there simply isn’t a domestic option. But the movement isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. Even small shifts in spending habits, multiplied across millions of people, can have a real impact.

At the end of the day, the Buy Canada Movement feels less like a trend and more like a response—one shaped by external pressure and internal reflection. And given the current climate, it’s something you may find yourself paying a lot more attention to.

Free Short Stories + Fantasy Book Sale, Oct 16 to 20

 Visit amazon.com/author/moffat to get free short stories and huge discounts on fantasy books by Charles Moffat. Sale ends on October 20th.

Reflections & Reveries: A Poetry Book by Gail M. Murray

Poetry is subjective. Like song lyrics, you either like poetry or you don't. But...

If you enjoy poetry by Canadian poets do check out Gail M. Murray's book: Reflections & Reveries

She has a book launch coming up on April 14th 2024 at the Stone Cottage Pub in Scarborough, Ontario. See the book launch details below:

About the Author

Gail M. Murray B.A. B. ED. was an English teacher and teacher-librarian with a focus on drama and literature. Gail grew up on a small farm in Pickering surrounded by nature, walking in woods, fields and gardens like the Romantics. For several years, Gail performed with Scarborough Theatre Guild and Scarborough Music Theatre. After retiring Gail became a free-lance writer. Like Keats, she seeks to capture the essence of the moment. Gail’s writing is a response to her natural and emotional environment.

Her poems have been published in Written Tenfold, Blank Spaces, Wordscape, Arborealis, The Banister, CommuterLit.com and her collection Reflections and Reveries. Her creative non-fiction has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Trellis, Heartbeats,  Renaissance, The Ontario Gardener, NOW Magazine, Blank Spaces, Just Words Volume 2, Stony Bridges, Ottawa Review of Books, Historical Novels Review, Our Canada, More of Our Canada, Devour and Our Canada, Our Country, Our Stories.

Speed Boats, Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Sea Ray: Sea Ray is widely regarded as one of the most reputable speed boat manufacturers. They have a long-standing history and offer a diverse range of boats, including sport boats and luxury yachts. Sea Ray boats are known for their craftsmanship, performance, and attention to detail. They often receive positive reviews for their quality construction, comfort, and overall value.

2. Boston Whaler: Boston Whaler is a well-established brand known for its unsinkable boats and innovative designs. They offer a variety of models, including center console boats, dual console boats, and cruisers. Boston Whaler boats are recognized for their durability, safety features, and seaworthiness. They often receive positive feedback for their stability, versatility, and ability to handle rough waters.

3. Yamaha Boats: Yamaha is a reputable manufacturer known for its high-performance boats and personal watercraft. They offer a range of models, including jet boats and center console boats. Yamaha boats are appreciated for their reliability, speed, and advanced features. They often receive positive reviews for their agile handling, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly controls.

4. Formula Boats: Formula is known for its high-performance and luxurious speed boats. They specialize in producing high-quality boats with attention to detail and advanced technologies. Formula boats are recognized for their speed, comfort, and sleek designs. They often receive positive feedback for their power, handling, and high-end features.

5. Malibu Boats: Malibu is a reputable brand known for its wakeboard and watersports boats. They offer a range of models designed for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing. Malibu boats are appreciated for their performance on the water, versatility, and wake-shaping technologies. They often receive positive reviews for their build quality, customizable features, and wakeboarding capabilities.

6. MasterCraft: MasterCraft is known for its high-quality ski boats and wakeboard boats. They are recognized for their performance, precision, and cutting-edge technologies. MasterCraft boats often receive positive feedback for their wake-shaping capabilities, quality construction, and innovative features such as customizable wake profiles.

7. Nautique: Nautique is a reputable manufacturer specializing in wakeboard and watersports boats. They offer a range of models designed for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing. Nautique boats are appreciated for their performance, innovation, and luxurious features. They often receive positive reviews for their wake-shaping capabilities, quality craftsmanship, and user-friendly controls.

8. Regal Boats: Regal is known for its luxury and performance-oriented boats. They offer a range of models, including sport boats and cruisers. Regal boats are recognized for their stylish designs, quality construction, and comfortable interiors. They often receive positive feedback for their handling, fuel efficiency, and overall value.

 

Ranking Motorcycles

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Honda: Honda is widely regarded as one of the most reputable motorcycle manufacturers. They have a long-standing history and offer a diverse range of motorcycles, catering to different riding styles and preferences. Honda motorcycles are known for their reliability, performance, and technological innovations. They often receive positive reviews for their build quality, fuel efficiency, and extensive dealer networks.

2. Yamaha: Yamaha is a well-established brand known for its versatile and high-performance motorcycles. They offer a wide range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, off-road bikes, and scooters. Yamaha motorcycles are recognized for their performance, handling, and advanced technologies. They often receive positive feedback for their durability, design, and overall value.

3. Kawasaki: Kawasaki is a reputable manufacturer known for its sport bikes, off-road motorcycles, and cruisers. They offer a diverse lineup of motorcycles with a focus on performance and power. Kawasaki motorcycles are recognized for their agility, acceleration, and cutting-edge technologies. They often receive positive feedback for their performance on both the track and the road.

4. Ducati: Ducati is a reputable brand known for its high-performance sport bikes and iconic designs. They are recognized for their emphasis on performance, precision, and racing heritage. Ducati motorcycles often receive positive feedback for their powerful engines, agile handling, and distinct Italian styling. They are appreciated by enthusiasts for their thrilling riding experience.

5. Harley-Davidson: Harley-Davidson is an iconic brand renowned for its cruiser motorcycles and rich heritage. They are known for their distinctive design, powerful engines, and unique riding experience. Harley-Davidson motorcycles often evoke a sense of tradition, freedom, and individuality. They receive positive reviews for their craftsmanship, customization options, and community-building events.

6. BMW Motorrad: BMW Motorrad is known for its high-quality motorcycles with a focus on performance, comfort, and advanced technologies. They offer a range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, adventure bikes, touring bikes, and electric models. BMW motorcycles are appreciated for their engineering excellence, innovative features, and luxurious designs. They often receive positive reviews for their reliability, long-distance comfort, and sophisticated electronics.

7. Triumph: Triumph is known for its classic and modern classic motorcycles with British heritage. They offer a range of motorcycles, including cruisers, sport bikes, and adventure bikes. Triumph motorcycles are recognized for their style, character, and craftsmanship. They often receive positive reviews for their distinctive design, smooth engines, and comfortable ergonomics.

8. Suzuki: Suzuki is a reputable manufacturer offering a diverse lineup of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, and off-road bikes. They are known for their affordability, reliability, and performance. Suzuki motorcycles often receive positive feedback for their solid build quality, user-friendly nature, and overall value.