THREW Mikes EyEz

Original Writings, Images, Video and Artworks of Mike Hartley


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Alone

It’s odd having the house to myself overnight. My better half is at my son’s home watching his dog. She returns later today so things will be back to normal.

What I did enjoy was being able to listen to music through the speakers instead of having to use the headphones in the middle of the night when I’m usually up. I liked taking the trash out at 3am because that is when I remembered to do it and didn’t have to worry about waking her. I liked leaving all the dishes in or by the sink till I put them away an hour before she returns.

Having dinner at 10:30pm wasn’t an issue. I enjoyed having the bed to myself again, like I did when we were on two different sleep schedules. I danced through the house on my way to different rooms because I had music loud enough to hear throughout the house.

I used the Dremel tool in the middle of the night. Oh yeah, that reminds me. I usually crank up the temperature a few degrees when she’s gone for any length of time, but I always return it the previous setting well before she comes home.

I parked the cars in odd spots, which I’ll move back soon.

Well, let me do that and take the recycling out, bring the trash can in from the road, adjust the thermostat, take care of the dishes and pick up my clothes and take a shower. And that pile of shredding that I have to finish. I’ve been promising to vacuum the basement also.

And if I feel motivated, I must renew my tags and get the emissions test done on my car. I better get my behind in gear.

If you’re torn about issues. Pick up the pieces and move on. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I’m taking a lot more pride in small gains. Because sometimes a lot of small gains add up.
  • With so many people I know passing in recent months, it really gets me busier every day.
  • Even though I might not add it each day I still feel Trump and his group of Nazi friends need to go. Now that idiot is going to get us in a war.
  • I see Holman has joined Mike Johnson in arguing with the Pope about the Catholic Religion. Talk about people feeling holier than thou.


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Well maybe

The daily prompt is asking – If you could be someone else for a day, who would you be, and why?

Here’s a few off the top of my head early this morning.

I’d like to be Arron Judge to see what it feels like to hit a baseball that hard and far. Because it looks awesome.

I’d like to be my dad for a day. Because I never got to know him well enough at all.

I’d like to be Neil Peart for a day to know what it feels like to play drums like a master and roll all day till my arms fell off. Because I’ve always wanted to be a drummer.

I’d like to be Robin Williams for a day and make everyone I know laugh like they never laughed before. Because I like giving joy.

I’d like to be John Force and feel what it’s like to do the 1/4 mile in under 4 seconds. Why? Because I feel the need, the need for speed.

I’d like to be MacKenzie Scott for a day to know what it feels like to give billions away to help so many people. Because it must feel like success and a good day each day.

I hope your day is a good one. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Good morning

What a night out with the boys. Lots of laughter, tacos, vacation discussions, fishing trip plans and solved a lot of the world’s problems. Unfortunately, the Maryland men’s basketball team didn’t come out with the victory, but we had a good time anyway.

Pony Up. Photo by Mike Hartley

A cloudy day so far so I’ll concentrate on indoor photography and painting. I will venture out, maybe the hardware store for some Dremel bits. I have to pick up a car from the garage.

I’m getting disgusted looking at the mess this office is. Well, it’s not horrible but it needs some maintenance.

This is going to be a good day. Even though I’m going to have to put the cover back on the car before the rain comes later.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Never order ribs when wearing a long sleeve shirt.
  • The commonality in my problems is me.
  • I’m thinking a new chair for my office is in the works.
  • I like the idea of getting Fisher’s popcorn, but I always eat all of it.


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Door v8.26

Time for the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by Dan Antion. For those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them this is the spot for you. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.

I went out yesterday but got sidetracked and didn’t end up shooting new doors so I went to my vault again. Not the best selection I’ve ever posted. The first one qualifies, the second is iffy and the 3rd and 4th shots are partial doors.

Honestly, we don’t sandbag our clients.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I believe the name now is Ocean 99.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I just liked the color and wind blowing the flag. Of course, the wreath has our state flower the Black-Eyed Susan.

Photo by Mike Hartley

This effort is a shadow of itself.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Project

Describe the most ambitious DIY project you have ever taken on. – Asks the daily prompt.

I don’t know the exact answer to this question. Maybe building my deck. Getting headers and side pipes on my old Camaro was one of the rudest jobs without a lift. Helping a friend build a boathouse. Started a newspaper with two friends from scratch that became successful.

Becoming a father. Ushering in technology changes throughout my career. Playing caregiver for elderly parents. Becoming the artist, I wanted to be in my youth, as a senior citizen. And my new role of becoming the best grandfather (Papa) to my grandchildren.

Not me but easily could be. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Let it Roll

It would be nice to have a classic car. I’m working on one now. It’s turning 10 and I’m pretty sure I’ll be keeping it till I can’t drive anymore and then a few years more just to sit in it or have someone drive me around in it.

I can’t get enough of classic cars. Who knows, maybe I’ll pick one up someday. The designs, chrome, wheels were all so unique. In the 60s and 70s if 10 people saw a getaway car they could tell you the brand, year, model, color, 2 or 4 door, trim package and engine size because that was on an emblem on the side.

Today you would get – it was grey, maybe dark grey, maybe metallic, somewhere between a 2010 and 2026, couldn’t tell how many doors it had. It could have been a Nissan, Toyota, Hyundai, Subaru, Mazda, Kia or Honda something. It was a possible EV, Hybrid, Fuel sucker. If 10 people saw this getaway car they couldn’t agree if it was a sedan, crossover or SUV.

I didn’t start out with the intention of having so many car shots in the blog but I kind of like hanging out at the shows, getting ideas about paint colors I like and modifications. And then dreaming about an old muscle car sitting in the driveway next to the Miata.

But that would lead to all kinds of problems because then I would have to modify the muscle car. And then get a trailer for it. Oh, and buy a pickup to tow it to events of some distance. Well, hey, I can dream.

I’ll be happy if I can keep that current car running for a long time. Because after driving it this evening for the first time in a month, it’s one of my great joys.


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Soft

This green bottle used to be my penny jar. The light coming through my office window one morning cast its shadow. Almost looks like a painting.

Sometimes the simplest shots are right in front of us. It’s funny the difference some days make. There are days I struggle to find what I like or any opportunity to get something good. Other days I wander and just turn and fire, low and behold I come home with a wealth of images.

I guess that is that natural ebb and flow of luck and energy and the right time and right place.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I didn’t get as much shooting done yesterday as I hoped. Today is another opportunity, but one challenged by chores and tasks. Also, a Maryland game to watch later and a few miles on the treadmill. And the other list I haven’t checked yet could probably fill a few more days so off I go for a bit.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • My fun machine (Miata) is in the shop. Getting prepared for the spring driving season. It will be 10 years old in another 40 days. I’ve left it stock this entire time. I hear change is good.
  • Can’t listen to the divider and chief. I’ll read the transcript.
  • I’m jealous of a good friend escaping to the warm weather of Florida this weekend.
  • I’ve let my multitasking skills lapse a bit but I’m getting my act together.


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Who

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. I was in my workroom and a piece of wood with a knot had overlayed some templates I was using for a mug carving project for a friend who likes The Who. It caught my attention. I moved it just slightly and grabbed a shot.

I should have moved that drop light, but it did create a nice shadow around him and then the guitar in the darkness.

I love the texture of wood. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Your guess is as good as mine

I was going through and editing/housecleaning/organizing some of my photo vault and came across this photo. I was going to trash it when I said to myself, what the hell, give it a shot. It was taken in Annapolis MD on a day with my daughter.

I was trying to come up with the best caption for whatever this is.

  • Is this a doorman saying – no man, you aren’t coming inside with those dogs.
  • Maybe an odor problem?
  • The act of washing Jesus’s feet.
  • Prep for foot modeling job.
  • Just cool your jets, the new sneakers will be here soon.
Photo by Mike Hartley


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The ones

The daily writing prompt asks – If you could permanently ban a word from the general usage, which one would it be? Why?

I would ban the word war if it would prevent all future conflict.

I would ban the word hate if it erased it.

I would ban the word hunger because if there were no wars we could spend all that defense money on making sure nobody is hungry in the world.

I would ban the word greed if it would stop those who practice that craft.

Why, just for the hell of it.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Visitor

Like the parking space says, visitor from another time period. Just like me. I’m a drop top man also but this ride is a little too heavy for me. It is a color my daughter would like though.

Good day all. That sun this morning is inspiring me to get moving. And then I opened the door and that cold 20 something degree temp hit me. I will still venture out but I don’t see much time in that cold.

Won’t be long till the car shows crank up again and I’ll be out early on Saturday or Sunday mornings with all the other motorheads appreciating the works of automotive art and performance.

Let me get moving here and go collect some fresh images.


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Intense

I feel my intensity building. And no better time than now to funnel it into some action. My furnace is stoked and I’m ready to cook.

Music had slipped out of my daily routine for a while, but I’m made the proper course correction, and the dust is off the speakers and headphones. That always releases some good feelings and a smile. And when the weather changes and the car stereo is on with the top-down life will be great again.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ve got a few dozen new images to upload to the photo site and some blogs there to catch up on. As well as a lot of them here on WordPress I haven’t been keeping up with properly. Not out of obligation, I enjoy your work.

I’ve got a lot of alone time to fill today. I see some sunshine in the forecast, so I think I’ll head out with the camera and capture a fresh set of doors for this Thursday’s challenge. As well as filling some other holes in the portfolio.

Time to fire off this computer and accomplish something.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I enjoy political cartoons.
  • You can find great happiness in others. Just don’t make that the only reason you are happy.
  • What you choose to create and for who is unique to you.
  • Something about water draws me towards it.


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Health

The daily prompt asks – What is the biggest challenge you will face in the next six months?

I guess it’s the same biggest challenge we all face every day. Our health. From the dangers of getting in a car and entering a highway to the doctor’s test results you get.

No day is guaranteed for any of us at any age. Some of us, including myself, didn’t think like that for a long time. After a few battles with cancer, I stopped taking health for granted. I will have another test in 6 months, nothing unusual, have been tested for many years now. But that will be my biggest challenge. It helps me appreciate each day now like I didn’t before.

It helps me think about time and how I use it. I can put things in a better perspective and order now. I wish someone would have shared that nugget of knowledge earlier in life with me.

Biggest challenges used to be helping raise a family, my career and keeping the bills paid. Now it’s just making each day count. Be it a conversation, a photo I take, a hug from my children, a laugh with a friend. Simple but very important things to me.

Lots of us work a very long time and very hard making other people lots of money. I didn’t learn that one till almost retirement. I was out of balance with work and life. Maybe that is why retirement is so sweet to me.

Health will always be our biggest challenge. Without it everything else can be more difficult or impossible.

If I were to put the test aside, my biggest challenge would be getting all my ideas and projects completed in that timeframe. And fit in a lot of love. I look at life from one test to the next and fit as much as I can in between those dates.

I wish I could eat healthier. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Searching

I’m warm and toasty inside despite that nastiness outside. Just heard the plow come through.

Alone again in the office looking at some prints I made earlier and what wall they will go on. Thinking of venturing outside and taking some pictures. Then again after opening the door and catching some of that wind, I’m rethinking the expedition.

Thanks to OC Webcams

I was watching the webcams in Ocean City Maryland and many of them went offline last night with that blizzard. Any drink you order there will be a frozen one. Got this snapshot above from the 94th Street cam overlooking Coastal Highway just before daylight.

Photo by Mike Hartley

If I’m lucky, I can see myself wearing a path between my front door and the beach this year. And many points in between because I’d like to do a lot of Eastern Shore of Maryland photography. There are many great small towns and waterways to explore.

That will also serve the dual purpose of having the fun of getting to and from those destinations in my Miata. I can’t explain how much fun that has been to drive.

Zoom Zoom. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Yesterday was another day of missed opportunities. But feeling better about today. .
  • Sometimes being nocturnal feels more natural.
  • If I had the room, I was thinking of adding a heavy bag (boxing) to my office.
  • It’s lonely in here at times no matter how much I talk to myself.
  • The picture of the flower above is for balance. I might have some snow, fog and rain pictures soon.


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Advice

What advice would you give to your teenage self? – A reflection question from the daily writing prompt.

First, I would tell myself to never have picked up a cigarette. Good thing I came to my senses and dropped that habit long long ago.

Next, I would like to kick my ass up and down the street till I got it in my head that drinking is not a competitive sport.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I would encourage myself to have a lot more confidence in my abilities and to follow my dreams more. To not be afraid to talk from the heart.

To appreciate that time of teenage life fully. I did a pretty good job but there were things that could have been done better.

Oh yeah, to tone down a lot of the riskier things I did during those years.

Remember, when you come to a bridge. Floor it.
Photo by Mike Hartley


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Think Pink

Just doing my part to put a brighter face on a sloppy day. Old man winter is telling me I better get a snowblower and hang up the shovel or there will be hell to pay. I guess this last decade of just dustings gave me a false sense of security. I just looked outside and the snow is beginning in earnest.

Natures Fireworks. Photo by Mike Hartley

Just about time to head upstairs and prepare dinner. I’ve met my goal of cooking a few times this week and hope to build on that this coming week. I’ll have to get a few new ideas for our feast.

I see the Lakers and Celtics play tonight. The time when you would say that you would have a major viewing event is long past. While both teams are good and the Celtics could compete for a championship, the Lakers would need a miracle to make the Finals. I might catch a few minutes, but I’d rather work on my hobbies.

I’m on a roll building out my photo site more this past week and hope to continue that effort. Now if I could devote some time to the easel and woodwork, I’d be smiling ear to ear.

It doesn’t feel like a late Sunday afternoon. The kids are probably excited that the prospect of school tomorrow is fading away with every snowflake. And parents are wondering what we are going to do for childcare because work is still going to expect staff tomorrow morning.

My only responsibility is to check to make sure that the snow isn’t getting too deep tonight where I have to do it in two sessions. Other than that, I wake early to do my hobbies and that is so sweet not to have to think about fighting the elements if I don’t want to. I really should get out and take some snow pictures though. These bright flowers are a bit out of season here.


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Recognized it

I was going through some of my parent’s old photos and found this one of an intersection. It was very familiar to me because I drove through it for almost 3 decades coming home from work in Washington DC. It’s the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road/Route 29 looking northbound in Silver Spring Maryland.

By the age of the cars, I’m guessing this was shot in the 1950s. Check the Silver theater on the top right of center.

Route 29 North. Photo by my parents.

Here is a shot I took one night on the way to work about a decade ago of that same theater.

AFI in Silver Spring MD. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Photo rule #63

Photo rule #63. If you slip and fall and find yourself on your butt, take a photo. You can go to the doctor later.

From several years ago, but I do remember it. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Getting a grip

When I feel I’m losing my grip, I turn inward and try to recover. Such is today’s feeling. I’ve got to get back to creating some new work. I’ve started with some music and some visual inspiration from various artists this morning.

Jaws of life. Keeping things turning. Photo by Mike Hartley

I just put the camera on the tripod and have a few ideas to execute once I clear and make some studio space. Tonight, might be an opportunity to do some night snow shooting depending on the depth we are getting. Maybe some cooking shots while preparing dinner. I missed a good opportunity Friday night when I had all those red, orange and yellow peppers cut up and grilled.

When I get stuck, I stop seeing opportunities to create. I’m getting better at getting unstuck but I’m human and depression has always followed me. Waiting for the opportunity to block me at every turn. It prevents proper rest. It twists thoughts. I neglect my body maintenance. I feel guilty about what I haven’t accomplished instead of forging ahead.

Time to shake it off and get moving again. Some time on the treadmill, being I neglected that yesterday is a good way to start. Double up today’s walk to make up for the slackness.


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Bored

The daily writing prompt asks – What bores you?

I guess a bad book, show or movie have bored me in the past. Some discussions about jobs. A lot of today’s music. Recent car designs. Trump and his circus clown show. Cutting grass, raking leaves, shoveling snow. Some traffic situations. Waiting for the first coat of paint to dry before putting second on.

Being on hold with Verizon support. Some technical classes I’ve taken. Watching people in stupid arguments. Watching golf. Shopping and power outages.

Waiting rooms because nobody talks anymore because everyone has their heads in the phone.

Undergoing radiation.

I hope I never have to go through those doors again. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Waiting

Nothing like walking outside in the summer and smelling the flowers in bloom. I’m having trouble waiting for spring let alone summertime. I guess I’ll just have to dream for a few more weeks at least.

Music has had my mind racing all day. And it’s got as many ebbs and flows as the ridges in this flower. I can’t get at ease and that’s affecting production. I’ve got a few things done today but not much that I’m really excited about. Yeah, some essential chores, but nothing on the creative front I’m happy with so far.

I’m out of balance on several fronts. As I pulled the cover off my car today and started it to charge the battery that frustration of not being able to use it as I’d like due to the season and melting snow/salt covering the highways. I miss the enjoyment and freedom that toy gives me.

I blew off some of my exercise time today which wasn’t smart because that could be one reason the body feels tense. I haven’t picked up the camera all day Saturday and that is pretty much a failure.

The thought of having to shovel wet snow later today isn’t doing anything to improve my attitude. I will get through it and the winds on Monday and power through the week ahead with a renewed effort and mindset.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Maryland’s men’s basketball team got a nice win.
  • Some instrumental tunes can say a lot.
  • Don’t you just love people who can look you in the eye and lie.
  • I’m really going to be depressed when my grandchildren get old enough when they don’t run to my arms.


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Paradise City

Not quite, but close. It would be nice to be back in Florida, instead of looking out on my yard of mud that was snow-covered till yesterday and about to be recovered with snow tomorrow. So, I’ll make the best of a cold situation. Why not start searching out what next year’s warm weather escape will be.

This year’s trip was kind of a spur of the moment one. My brother in-law and his wife had just taken a trip to Hawawi and that triggered the thought in both of us to say why not escape for a few days.

Photo by Mike Hartley

We looked at the southwest coast of Florida, but that area is still recovering so we went eastside to Fort Lauderdale. Specifically, the town of Lauderdale by The Sea.

And the beach was beautiful and open as can be on the first and second day there. By Friday people were elbow to elbow. The pool was far less crowded and warmer.

Photo by Mike Hartley

One of the nice things I remember about the trip was the complements we received on how nice we were compared to the locals. We were told they have some major attitude of entitlement. And I guess all that money there plays right into that hand.

I thought the cars were impressive. Watching these monsters of the sea go by like cabs was something else. Photo by Mike Hartley

One other thing that struck me in this area was the drivers. Holy crap, they are some aggressive sons of bitches. And that is saying something because I drive in the DC/Baltimore corridor. I didn’t see the signs, but I think there is an unwritten rule to test your horn at every intersection. And I guess NASCAR has moved the preliminary qualifying races to the streets. You didn’t see this action in the downtown area but a mile from the beach it was green flag racing.

It’s a town I’m glad I visited and would recommend to others. Great beaches and good restaurants all within walkable distance and there is a free shuttle around town. The open-air dining was perfect for the weather we had. The grandkids and kids liked their gifts and we were very relaxed. I do know Florida is a little to MAGA in my face and probably won’t be down for many more visits. The Caribbean has caught my interest and might be my next winter destination.


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Drink up

The daily writing prompt wants to know – What is your favorite drink?

My favorite drink is an ice-cold Coke. My favorite libation is a Pina Colada. My favorite shot is Plantation XO Rum.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Drinking isn’t a sport. Drink responsibly please.


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Branch Out

Got some Northern Cotton in bloom. And no, I’m not looking forward to more snow on Sunday. I had better make good use of today then and do a few things with the cars that need attention.

Music has been guiding me today. Very introspective afternoon and evening on Friday. Some of the lyrics have really hit home. Some of the hard driving cords have me kind of pumped up. Which is good because I’m hitting the treadmill in a few minutes. And then some light weights.

I’m on a daily routine with it now like I am blogging so it’s just adding to the frequency and intensity of my workout.

Floating. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Pick One

You can Go, you can Stop, you can proceed with Caution. Personally, I’m on GO today and I see no reason to change that in the future. I had my grandson and son visit today. The young one is on GO+, with endless energy. He will be 4 years old this summer and I love this age.

They are so curious and fun and imaginative. We played, ate lunch and talked up a storm. Fixed dinner for my better half and now back to the computer. I think I’m going to try cooking all weekend.

Sounds like Caution may be the word of the weekend weather with either a blizzard or dusting on its way Sunday. That might Stop some plans but not mine. I’m going for it this weekend on several fronts. One is hoping to be more active here with some fresh images and thoughts.

So, caution to the wind. Full speed ahead.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • The more you get inside yourself, the more you discover. Some of it gives me pause.
  • For those about to rock, we salute you.
  • There is what I did yesterday, what I do today and what I hope to do tomorrow.
  • As Axl Rose asks – Where do we go now?


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People

Who are your favorite people to be around? – That isn’t a fair question from the daily writing prompt.

Being I’m not putting one ahead of the other I’ll just say family and my close friends.

Some days I’m my favorite person to be around. Those are the days I hop in the car and point it eastward till it gets to the ocean. My blanket and music. A day of solitude.

I like being around people but less now than when I was younger.

Whomever I’m around now, especially those who are closest to me, each meeting feels special.

A day on the water with family or friends is time well spent. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Doors v7.26

Time for the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by Dan Antion. For those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them this is the spot for you. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.

My better half and I spent a few days last week in a town called Lauderdale By The Sea just north of Fort Lauderdale Florida. If I wasn’t so busy having fun enjoying the beach, pool, restaurants, shops and hotel so much I would have taken a lot more photos.

The doors in most places were wide open because the weather was so beautiful. The first two doors weren’t by the beach. They were about a mile north of it.

This is always one of my favorites. A door to a door.

Open open sezzzaa me. Photo by Mike Hartley

Just down the street from where we stayed is the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church

Photo by Mike Hartley

Now there is an entrance.

This is one of the three spires there. Photo by Mike Hartley

I’m a fan of LIFE IS GOOD.

Bubble on down. Photo by Mike Hartley

Down by de Ocean.

One of the fine dining establishments in town. Photo by Mike Hartley

Best bacon and cheese omelet I’ve ever had.

Nothing like sitting outside smelling the salt air and having a great breakfast. Photo by Mike Hartley

I hear it’s good, but I stay away from Tequila.

Looked cool at night also.

Our first meal here overlooking the beach and eating seafood.

Not much of an entrance but the greater was all smiles. Photo by Mike Hartley

It was a sweet town to visit and had a small city feel to it that Fort Lauderdale couldn’t.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Looking for YOU

Could there be? Could there be a glimmer of hope for just a little sunshine before the rain comes today. I don’t think it’s asking too much. I need that inspiration. I need that warmth. I need it to dry things out and continue the ice melt. I need it to see so I can put air in my tire that is low today.

I need you so I can walk outside again instead of the many miles on the treadmill.

Sunrises get the day moving. Photo by Mike Hartley

My friends were pointing out that sunrise used to be the end of my day. Yes, that was true. I saw many a sunrise on the way home from work. Sometimes I’d go to bed in the morning and sometimes closer to noon. And once a week, I’d see the sunrise twice in a 24-hour waking period when I would transition back from day shift to nights.

They were also laughing at my ability to eat whatever at any time of the day or night. That comes from years of eating at all hours of the day and night.

Found an interesting site about night and shift work – From Redline 2024 Stats on America’s off hours workforce.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I was given some hope that an old friend of mine might be turning a positive corner in his life again.
  • I’m going to get the fireplace going for lunchtime.
  • So far, the exercises I’m doing are helping most days. Funny how my goals are to do more the older I get.
  • The more back roads I take the happier the drive is.
  • A grandchild didn’t want any part of me yesterday. I’ll give her a mulligan because she was sick.
  • I’m excited about today. Don’t know exactly what about yet, but I’ll find something.


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Flip and Flop

The daily prompt wants me to – Tell us about your favorite pair of shoes, and where they’ve taken you.

These are my favorites and take me to where I want to go. Be it this beach or that beach, my patio or deck, they take me to my happy place. If this footwear is on, it’s a sunny warm day and all is right with the world. The same holds true for barefoot.

Flip and Flop. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Melt you

Boy this snow and ice is stubborn. Refusing to melt off till this week. Trouble is when it does it’s going to look like hell outside. Brown yards and salt covered streets. I hope we are finished with the snow for the season myself. I’m ready to pull the cover off the car and feel that warm sunshine beating down on me.

Icebergs. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Gifted Time

Share one of the best gifts you’ve ever received. – I believe I’ll answer this question from the daily prompt a bit differently than previous attempts.

The gift of time is one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. The times I’ve survived car accidents. The times I’ve survived cancer. Those were wake up calls to the special gift of time each day. The time to hold my better half’s hand. The time to do this blog or take a photograph. The time and warmth of a shower.

Time is the gift you can never get enough of. Unless you’re in jail, I guess.

Time is something I took for granted at one point. I still slip now and then but for the most part I’m appreciating and using the gift of time to spread other gifts. We are only what we do with our time here with each other.

Time is a gift not to be wasted. I’m off to a great start this week in making good use of time. And right now, I’m going to get up and spend some time exercising and give my body a gift.

Have a great morning all.

Time is a gift. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Brighten

I’ve got to reach out to someone important tonight and try to brighten their day. Then again, I’m still working on myself this fine Tuesday afternoon. I’ve put a few miles on the treadmill and tried to get comfortable, but the spasms won’t let up for long.

Walking has really helped with my back pain. So, I’ll try some more this evening.

The slight warming today did nothing for me with all that snow still on the ground. Photo by Mike Hartley

A few chores and tasks have been completed today. Unfortunately, the list is as plentiful as the number of sunflower seeds in the above bloom.

Wishing I was as productive as yesterday. I must take advantage of this evening to feel like it’s been a good effort today.

All these responsibilities when we return home suddenly reappear. And it’s my better half who has by far been the busiest. Taking a week off from the normal routine has a way of paying itself back.

Let me set sail from this computer chair, surfing through some of my old photo galleries and instead sit with the paint brush for a few moments at the easel.

St Michaels MD. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Tight Tuesday

Feeling tight this morning. The body is constricted and therefore the mind isn’t free. Let’s see if we can work things out. The treadmill hasn’t helped so far. Neither has some stretching. Trying round two of both of those with some light dumbbells to hopefully work out the kinks.

It sort of feels like a rude cloudbank creating a lot of turbulence that bounced me around too much.

Rumbling through the morning so far. Photo by Mike Hartley

Monday was very productive. Uploaded a few series of shots of a local town I had missed before and filled out a better look at that little slice of Maryland. I’m going through my vault each day and trying to find things I haven’t uploaded to the photo site before. That is one of my priorities each day this year.

Once I’m satisfied, I’ve got most of my good stuff there and organized and presented correctly I’ll start making more references to it here. The Canon printer was also active on Monday so there are some new images to hang on the family and friend walls.

Accomplished some editing from the Florida shooting and will finish and upload that later today.

But I’d really like to spend some time painting and photographing. So let me get up from this keyboard and back to addressing feeling better.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Oh crap, tax season.
  • Oh my, Tuesday already.
  • Oh jeez, I’ve heard enough politics for the day already.
  • Oh yeah, time to create.


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All about your decisions

Write about your approach to budgeting. – A money management question from the daily writing prompt.

Keeping cash out of my hands and pockets was something I learned early on because those two are easily separated. Let my better half run the books. In other words, let the most frugal and responsible person pay the bills. I concentrated on incoming.

If you want stuff, you had better have a plan for it and stick to it. If you want a home and family, then that’s a huge commitment and could take your lifetime. Your plan will have to be flexible and adaptable to change but always focused on the goal.

Making smart decisions along the way. Learn quickly from the ones you make wrong. Don’t underestimate the timing of decisions.

Bring in more than goes out. Make things last. Pay bills promptly. Save and invest in something, even a home. Be responsible and honest with yourself. The major debt should be the home. All others should be minimized and paid off quickly.

Time and Money. Photo by Mike Hartley

You can budget smart but sometimes the only way to change your state is to either increase your income and or reduce your expenses. It’s the simplest thing and the hardest thing to do because you have to live it. It means not being able to do things you might have done for a long time before that.

A compact car instead of an SUV, doing your own maintenance instead of hiring out. Brown bagging lunches, eating at home or skipping meals. Working overtime and another job to work on that down payment.

I would drive a car for as long as I could. Usually selling them a few miles short of 200k or 12+ years old. For instance, I have an old beater that is 14 years old now that I use almost every day. But I’m also older now and have been wise enough and saved to be able to have a toy (Mazda Miata) that only sees sunny days with the top down.

Luck or good decision making. We have been lucky with the lifespan of most things we have bought. Be it furniture, cars, my 27-year-old tractor, the 35-year-old drier, the 33-year-old fridge and many others. I still have an electric leaf blower, over 5 decades old. If you take care of things, they last.

Managing money is a lifetime job. In some ways the older you get the harder it gets. Photo by Mike Hartley

When we were young and had just bought a home, I got some life insurance so that if I was gone my better half would have a place to live at least and a little more. But I don’t believe investing in life insurance beyond early years is a good investment.

If you’re going to invest, either find someone you really really really trust and then still be smart enough to stay educated yourself to ask them the questions you need to know to ask.

Medical expenses can really mess up a budget. No, not the monthly premiums or the deductibles. It’s that unexpected thing that sometimes hits many families. There is nothing you can do about these. They hurt your budget.

Photo by Mike Hartley

It can be a lot of sacrifices along the way to get what you want. Some are lucky and have it all. And sometimes the best laid plans and even some luck along the way can come up short. But if you tried your best and got most of the way there and accomplished all you wanted for everyone else then that is a victory.

Here is a rule I lived by and budgeted for. I wanted my children to have a much better life and opportunities than I had. Providing for their health, well-being, education, and solid home foundation while growing up. And then help them do the same for their children.


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Yes, to the?

Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you? – An interesting and timely question for this country.

Yes – Willing to defend this country and living by the Constitution. Respecting and supporting those who serve and served. I cheer our teams at the Olympics and other international competitions. At one point I thought this country had a greater sense of shared values but I’m not so sure anymore.

I’m being told I’m the enemy of the people by our current president for working a job I had for decades and having opinions that run contrary to his. While at the same time considering myself a patriot, and far more than the one accusing me of not being one. I get the feeling the country is at war with itself.

We seem to be divided more than any point I can remember. I think it even exceeds the turmoil in the 60s and 70s. And I was around for that mess also. This separation is running deep breaking families and long-standing friendships. I don’t think either side feels less patriotic than they were before all this division started. I love the flag just as much as any flag waving MAGA person.

We have separated into us and them. We don’t debate issues, you either tow the current line, or you are the enemy and need to be punished. Our way or the highway. Well, that isn’t the way it’s supposed to be.

If you want to be patriotic. Spend a day at Arlington National Cemetery and feel the magnitude of sacrifice. I’m going to do that in March when it warms up.

Beautiful headstone. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Look

Found a small series of shots that I had bypassed before. Probably because the images aren’t the sharpest, but the subject is very nice. I believe this is a Northern Flicker but please correct me if I’m mistaken. I’m no bird expert.

If my eyes were better I would use autofocus less.

Nature photography is something that requires patience.

I still make the mistake of not shooting enough when doing nature shots. That limitation in my head from the old film days.

I love it when I can get a half decent image.

Some days I feel like this myself.

Some subjects can be so shy.

Let me lift off and see what I can capture today.

But others will give you portrait shots all day long.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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No Sun

A rainy and dreary day in Central Maryland. I wasn’t looking for something bright and sunny but as I was sorting through some old shots, I found this one I was about to trash. The focus isn’t as sharp as some other ones in the series I used but I do like the softness.

My better half pointed out how infrequently I’m relaxed this past week. And she is right. I guess it’s a mixture of things through my history. I won’t bore you with that mess but it’s something I need to work on.

Exercise again has reminded me that it is a good form of letting the body cycle and relax. My hobbies relax me but there are times I neglect them.

Just sitting and taking in life on a warm beach for a few moments this past week kind of restored my balance because of the stress this winter season puts on me. Returning to the snow still on the ground wasn’t the greeting I was hoping for but maybe we are about to turn the corner on the season.

We love our home and being here. We also discovered we like being away a bit also. So maybe a better balance this year will be a good way to relax. We aren’t world travelers. Southern Florida was the furthest we have been from home in decades and that’s less than a thousand miles.

Maybe not putting myself in stressful situations. Eating better and spending time with positive people.

There is one thing I probably won’t ever relax about. The wellbeing and happiness of my children and grandchildren. That is unless we are on a family vacation and they are all right in front of me eating ice cream in Ocean City. Then I’m relaxed.

I think I’ll relax tonight with a good evening’s rest.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Remembering an old friend who passed way too young.
  • I had to put my shorts back away from our trip south, which was depressing, knowing it’s another month or two till they are needed again.
  • Blogging has become such a daily habit with me, I missed it when I was away. Both creating and reading. But a break is always good once in a while.
  • It’s been a productive day.
  • Congratulations on the Lady Terps victory over Ohio State today. Great comeback.


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Back

I’m back at home after a short trip south with my better half to a town called Lauderdale By The Sea in Florida. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the food and sights and of course the weather. Sunny days in the mid to upper 70s. A nice breeze and swimmable waters. Nice beaches, shops and lodging.

I followed the instructions. Relax… you’re here. Photo by Mike Hartley

I think swimming did my back well because no meds were needed and I’m feeling stronger. We did a lot of walking, and I even lost a few pounds despite eating very well. I know I was pounding too many sweets before I went.

For the life of me, I cannot remember taking a winter vacation to a warm destination in our marriage since our honeymoon. And that was a very long time ago. So, it was a real treat for us. We got a lot of sun but no burn. Feels good to have a bit of color on the skin again.

I think we were both a bit nervous about flying again. I know I was. It had been some years. But both the airports at BWI and Fort Lauderdale were a breeze, and the flights were pretty smooth. We did have a rather hard landing on the way down.

Airport at Fort Lauderdale. Photo by Mike Hartley

But back to work here at the homestead and online. I was going to go back a few days and see what questions I missed on the writing prompts but just did yesterdays and todays. I will respond to comments this week today and go back and see some of the wonderful things I’ve missed this week here.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ve finished downloading the limited shooting I did while away. It wasn’t intentional. It was that relaxed feeling where I was in break mode. If the whim struck me as it did two days, I shot a bit. Others I left the camera behind.

Walking was a great part of this trip. I’ve got to keep it up and get on the treadmill till it warms up outside again. Funny going from a beach and beautiful weather to snow covered ground and the temp at freezing with some possible rain and freezing rain later today.

For me, Florida is a nice place to visit, wouldn’t want to live there.


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Oops

I know nothing. I did nothing, I saw nothing. I heard nothing. Look at the daily writing prompt asking – Have you ever unintentionally broken the law?

Nope, each time I did, I knew what I was doing.

As Eddie Murphy famously said in one of the Beverly Hills Cop movies — “I wasn’t always a cop. And Rosewood answers, He’s fractured an occasional law.”

Not me officer. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Some titles

If there were a biography about you, what would the title be? – Interesting thought from the daily writing prompt.

What would others say about my life. That could get quite diverse. There have been a number of phases in my life that have some contrast, speckled with peaks and valleys. Sort of like a lot of people’s lives.

Of the titles off the top of my head.

  • Hang On
  • Loss and Lost
  • Ink and Paper
  • That Twinkle in the Eye is His Family
  • Charge – Yep, he’s that Friend
  • Relaxed Challenged
Relax, wish I could at times. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Nothing is easy

Nothing Is Easy – At least that is what the song title says of an old Jethro Tull classic. But I think it holds true in real life for anything that is important. Sitting on the beach and listening to the waves is easy. Getting vacation time and money to go to the beach, dealing with the drive and traffic isn’t.

I told my son about it (nothing is easy) because he was thinking about getting some property when he moved to a new home. He was being a good Son and helping me in my yard at the time. I emphasized how much work it can be and having to pay someone for it wasn’t going to be easy. I didn’t say it to dissuade him but to enlighten him.

When we moved to this home, I didn’t think a bit over an acre was too much property. And it’s not if you’re a young man and don’t have the money to pay someone else.

I didn’t ask the kids for much help in the yard when they were growing up. I wanted them to have the time to be children and pursue their own interests. Yeah, sometimes that was just playing, but that was fine with me also. In one sense that didn’t prepare them for their own properties but then again, they will have lots of time to learn it. And from what I’ve seen so far, they won’t have any problems with it.

They have already learned having a career isn’t easy. They have been at it for about a decade and a half now and found out a lot about work and life. Work takes up a tremendous amount of time and energy. It’s not always fair in many aspects. You learn a lot about people that you didn’t know.

The kids saw their grandparents’ bodies and minds fail and now they are seeing us age, and nothing is easy about that from either perspective.

Choosing good friends isn’t easy. Getting the right exercise isn’t easy. Eating healthy isn’t easy. Being in love isn’t easy. Being a parent isn’t easy. Being a good friend, lover, partner, parent, son, professional isn’t easy but it’s worthwhile.

You might think of term Easy Rider when seeing this picture. Having ridden a bit, there isn’t anything easy about that either, but it’s a hell of a lot of fun just like all those other things in life.

Bike by Harley Davidson. Photo by Mike Hartley

More Random Thoughts of the Day

  • The best day of working around the home is one where family are helping out.
  • Sometimes I miss my deceased family pets very badly.
  • The phrase “come play with me Papa” is music to my ears.
  • The Beatles stand the test of time.


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A bright spot

Stop, refocus, find your light.

Shot this on a foggy morning in Bethany Beach. Photo by Mike Hartley

Often, I feel like I lose my way. Be it not focusing on what’s important now or finding ways to sidetrack myself. I’m torn between wanting to work on my hobbies 12 hours a day and kicking back and relaxing most of the day.

I try my best each day, but I know I’m not as productive as I would like to be at times. Finding a balance and being happy at the same time is tough. I still beat myself up when I relax too much or perceive that I have.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I’m worrying less about retaining as much information as I used to.
  • What is one man’s junk is another’s riches. As I look at my junk thinking I have riches.
  • I can’t figure out why I never needed a space heater till I got old.
  • Keeping spirits up for a friend who’s struggling is a good feeling.


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Remember

Coming from a generation that used these, I have a better perspective and patience when I experience computer issues. I think back to when I began with computers and the waiting time to do things. And I wonder if things are being dismissed now out of how long it takes to do something.

A classic IBM Smith-Corona in Ellicott City store window. Photo by Mike Hartley

I’m feel the art of craftmanship is being lost. I think of how the process of something like photography has changed just since I started. Unloading film in the dark onto reels, pouring chemicals in and out, taking the negatives to the enlarger, moving exposed paper from tray to tray of chemicals under the red lights in a darkroom.

In some ways that attention to all the details and all the steps involved along the way made that final image something special. I guess growing up in a generation where everything was printed, I kind of still default to that in my photography. Yes, I have a photo site but making prints is what excites me.

I worry that so much could be lost on people’s electronic devices that much history could disappear. Plus, I like seeing images on walls and not just paint.

I still have thousands of slides to get digitized from my parent’s years. And prints made from the best of those. And I just looked over at my printer and thought I had better end this and get that device rolling.


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Thursday Doors v6.26

I enjoy participating in the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by Dan Antion. For those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them this is the spot for you. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.

Shots from the same town for 3 weeks in a row, sorry about the repetition. Yep, I had to go to the vault again but no more after this week. I’m going outside again to a new town and will have fresh doors next week.

Pretty much fitting for this country now. A door on the left and one on the right.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Nothing a little love can’t fix.

Photo by Mike Hartley

This small town of Ellicott City is an endless source of material.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Sometimes

Both my writing and photography aren’t in perfect focus all the time, so I rely on luck some days.

So far, we’re a surviving combination of determination and effort.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Differences

We all have them. None of us are exactly alike. How we deal with our differences is often the issue. In the last few months, it seems like I’ve encountered an increasing number of differences with people. Some, that I used to overlook, but now are much harder to accept.

I don’t know if it’s age and a growing lack of tolerance for BS or maybe I’m just noticing the differences more and accepting them less. Maybe it’s because differences have turned into non-negotiable points with some people. Like it or leave it sort of mentality.

Could be those around me are also getting older and struggling with differences also compounding situations.

Maybe I’m the one who’s different and people are just less accepting of it now.

Or maybe others are just more front and center in my face now.

For today, I’ll pick get a haircut and look a little different.

Had to get a different color flower in the shoot. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Torn

I think it’s something old in me that makes me think every time I need a haircut or trim my beard, should I let it go. Should I let it down past the shoulders again, or bring back the burly beard?

I hadn’t trimmed the beard in a while, so it was getting thick and a bit long. I looked in the mirror with trimmers in hand motionless. Do I skip it and let it grow long? Do I change the setting to a longer setting than I normally use?

Damn, this happens to me every time. Same with the haircut. I start with stupid crap like thinking of the money you could save. Think of how good that long hair felt in my teens, 20s and 30s. I never went the tattoo or piercing routes so maybe that was the rebel in me.

I haven’t cared much what others thought of my style except my better half, and she is tolerant with me. The only thing that stops me is the time in between it takes getting long again. I remember letting it go during Covid and it still wasn’t near being long again.

Plus, I do remember the extra care and it being a pain in the wind. So, I guess we’re sticking with the short cut and neatly trimmed beard.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Share

You get some great, amazingly fantastic news. What’s the first thing you do? – Asks the daily writing prompt.

I share it. I smile and then tell my better half.

Thank you stranger for taking a minute to snap an image of a great day in DC for my better half and I.
Photo by Stranger with my old digital.


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Rolling like waves

I try to be consistent. Like the waves hitting the shore. Some days smoothly, some days with thunder. But every day, every few seconds we break onshore. Blogging is one thing that keeps me consistent. Trying to get new images for it keeps me consistent.

I’m much more pleased with the images I share than the words. I wish I could express my thoughts more clearly at times and come up with interesting and witty topics/subjects.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I think it’s partially because I’m confused as to what I want to do and accomplish. In some ways the blog is a lot of fun and play. In other ways it’s kind of serious to me. I don’t mind doing it in obscurity for the most part. I do it for the few that might come across it and see or read something they like, a few family members and a very few friends who look at it and mainly for myself.

In some ways it’s like a daily challenge. I go through other blogs reading and gazing at wonderful words and images. And I think to myself I want to be part of that and see if something I create works. In other ways it’s practice for the book I hope to write for my kids someday.

Occasionally blogging is for my own therapy. Maybe expressing some things or thoughts that are part of me. It certainly helps me start the day right and in better spirits. Well, most days. Blogging inspires me to read more and open my mind. It allows me to see places and learn about them that I won’t get a chance to visit and see in my lifetime.

I do know one thing. I’ve been inside for far too long and I’m getting out this week and will have a ton of new shooting to share.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I see we tied the record low temp for this day at 3 degrees this morning. Not a record I like to see tied or broken.
  • It’s much easier to know people now by just listening to them.
  • A great opportunity is before all of us. We can fix things.
  • It’s surprising how few friendships last a lifetime.
  • Taking daily meds is how I keep track of the day of the week.


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Get at them again

The daily prompt asks – Are there any activities or hobbies that you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time?

When younger I had a stamp and coin collection but gave those up many decades ago. My son and I had the hobby of going to the pistol range, but we changed our positions on owning handguns and stopped that activity a few years ago.

I used to ride a motorcycle for a few decades and I miss that activity. I used to play a lot of games and chess when I was younger. I haven’t played games in many years.

My friends and I shot a lot of skeet when younger. We just went to a skeet range a year ago and it was a blast and I think a few of us might do that each year now. It’s something we took a 45-year break from.

Unfortunately, I lost interest in playing basketball. I’m looking forward to rediscover that love again. I lost interest in the arts when I was working so hard in my career but luckily, I’ve rediscovered my love for them and actively pursuing many of them again now.

Having activities and hobbies is a good way to feel alive and stay healthy. Pick up a few more things and feel even better.

Now this is nice work Photo by Mike Hartley


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Set the bar high

Go ahead, set the bar high for yourself. That way you’re doing it for yourself and not someone else. And by choosing what you set the bar for, success is more likely.

Riding high. Photo by Mike Hartley

Doing a bit of a reset myself. I’ve been frozen like this weather in my progress. This coming week that all changes.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I just realized how many choices I’ve made already in the short time I’ve been awake, and it’s scary.
  • From Washington Post hero to zero in a little over a decade. Nice stewardship.
  • I’m surprised at how some are surprised that Trump posted something racist. Duhh
  • Dogs have so much love. And I’m a loving person. But it can get annoying.
  • There is a collective sigh of pain from a lot of people who worked at The Washington Post.


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Return

With the feels like temp at -18 degrees when I started this post, I think this might not be the season yet for this guy. But I’m dreaming of warmer weather soon. I have to think of warmer weather with that cold wind whipping outside.

Adding some color to this colorless season of winter. Photo by Mike Hartley

Thankfully we have been able to stay under power today. The lights flickered once or twice but that was it. I do see lots of branches and sticks that will need picking up once the big melt comes along. That won’t be today unfortunately or anytime soon unfortunately.

My friends have been talking about spending more time in a warmer climate. Easier said than done for some of us. I don’t have the money for a second home or to live in another spot for a few months out of the year. And that is okay because I’m not sure I’d want to own a home in Florida for instance.

Insurance for storms, upkeep, renting it when not in use are all headaches I don’t need. Plus, I’m not a big fan of flying and that is too long of a drive to do on any regular basis.

We have settled on a few trips here and there. But till then, we endure.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I never knew it could be this cold out with bright sunshine.
  • I see the publisher of The Washington Post resigned. In the 2 years since I’ve been gone you and JB have pretty much destroyed that publication. Should look good on your resume Will.
  • The house is filled with smells from the kitchen as snack day gets underway.
  • MAGA cheering against our Olympic team because they hold a different political view is typical of the intolerance of anyone who holds a different view than theirs.


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Candy Out

Oh crap, the daily prompt is asking – What’s your favorite candy?

I’ve put on a few more pounds than I’d like to carry from eating too many sweets of late. Well, being it’s the season of hearts, my favorite candy is the Brach’s Valentines Conversation Hearts. Also, the Smarties Valentines bags have been good.

Sweets. Photo by Mike Hartley

Sweets are the one thing I struggle with. Most other foods aren’t an issue. I was doing well for a few years, and I have to get back into the mindset of moderation.

The only thing sweeter than candy is life when it’s going right.


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Goodbye

Yesterday I saw a note about an old high school classmate who passed. It was kind of surprising because I saw her for the first time since high school at our 50th reunion. She looked healthy and was even on the walk the day after the reunion.

I got a chance to talk a little bit with her at the reunion. After the walk around the lake the next morning everyone was going over to Whole Foods for a snack before splitting up again. I ran over to my car and got two pictures I had found in my old HS yearbook. One was her and one was for another old friend who grew up the street from me.

The shot of Helen was from when I did yearbook photography, and it was of her with the homecoming court because she was the Homecoming Queen. She was in her cheerleader uniform because it was halftime at a football game where they were announcing the homecoming court for our senior year.

When I caught up, she was still walking up outside, and I gave her the shot. It was black and white and only 5×7, but she looked deeply at it for a bit, slowing her walk substantially. 50 years ago, is a lot to look back at yourself. She looked up and smiled and said thank you and started to hand it back to me, but I said it was hers. She slowly slid it into her purse, and we joined a number of friends in the food court for lunch.

We talked a little there and went our own ways. I wonder if she was sick then and not sharing it with anyone. She looked good so I didn’t suspect a thing. But a lot of us have been through some trials and face things while looking completely or almost normal. But for some reason her death less than 3 months after seeing and sharing with her startled me a bit.

I’m glad I was able to catch up with her, hopefully the picture gave her a few more smiles. I just downloaded the group shot that was taken at the end of the reunion. I looked at her face and many others. I saw people that day that were very at ease with each other. None of that teenage awkwardness. People introducing spouses, discussing careers and retirement, catching up and sharing names and events with laugher. Hugs and handshakes, goodbye again not thinking we won’t be here tomorrow.

Seems like yesterday we entered high school and then graduated. Seems like yesterday that I retired, went to my high school reunion and remembered.

So thankful for the reminder of how precious each day is and hoping to make the best of it today and tomorrow if I’m granted such a gift. Rest easy Helen.

Marking the years. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Breaks

The daily writing prompt asks – Do you need a break? From what?

The easy answer is yes, I need a break and it’s from the weather. The feels like temp is 4 degrees and that is probably the warmest it’s going to be today. The 24-mph wind right now is expected to double which is going to make exposed skin dangerous. I really need a break from the wind over the next 12 hours so the power will stay on.

I also need a break from politics but taking one is dangerous because things move very fast right now.

I need to take a break from TV. I need to take a break from eating sweets. I need to take a break from negative people. I need to take a break from the routine. I need to take a break from being inside (when it warms up) and be outside with nature. I need to take a break from reading online and pick up a book more.

Deer taking a break. I feel for anything that has to be outside today. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Invent 2

The most important invention in your lifetime is…

What a question from the daily writing prompt. One answered 2 years ago in a post called Invent.

How does this update answer sound?

The answer is, of course life itself. Something that reinvents itself each day. We go on. We struggle. We adapt and change. We bring new life into the world. We raise and nurture our children. We love, share, laugh, cry, morn, celebrate, and relax with family, friends and strangers. We invent ways to survive.

There might be something someone somewhere is working on today that will be the most important invention. Maybe that invention is another person.

I think I’ll invent communication. Oh, you say it’s already here with the massive devices, tv’s, radios and meetings we have? Well, getting the message out is one thing. Having people listen and understand is another. It is part of the same cycle, isn’t it?

I have no idea of the gazillion things invented in my lifetime. what is most important. I do know that I’m not totally comfortable with the emergence of AI. If the past isn’t a good example of inventions that have gotten away from us, we might want to take a moment to pause and get a grip now.

Ah, the life. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Thursday Doors v5.26

I’m enjoying participating in the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by Dan Antion for those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.

These were shot around the town of Ellicott City Maryland. The same place last week’s images were taken but from a different year.

Looks like a house built with a prank door.

Rather strange images in the windows and doors. Photo by Mike Hartley

I know there is a door around here somewhere!

If that door had teeth, it would bite you. Photo by Mike Hartley

This establishment moved up the street a few years ago and is still thriving in a larger spot.

Maybe the trains that would pass right next to them got to be too much. Photo by Mike Hartley

Our County Welcome Center. Greetings

This used to be the Ellicott City Post Office. Photo by Mike Hartley

This is a sad one. Closed after 50 years of fine dining in December. Tersiguel’s

We’ve had the pleasure of dining here before. Thank you. Photo by Mike Hartley

A Place to Hang your Hat – One Fresh Hat

I’ll get a shot when they are open because those wire racks are filled with hats. Photo by Mike Hartley

Doors No More?

This building, now a restaurant, used to be a lumber mill. I worked across the street from it. Photo by Mike Hartley


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The Miracle on 15th Street

I worked at The Washington Post for 26 years. The former Miracle on 15th Street. Yesterday’s news of layoffs by the hundreds of people hurt to hear. I saw people I knew on LinkedIn yesterday saying they were some of the affected and putting their names and skills out there for new jobs. And what a time and industry to be looking for work.

In my opinion, Jeff Bezos had some guts in the beginning but then lost his nerve and bent the knee to Trump. And in its wake is the remnants of a once proud institution. And if it continues on its present course will soon be a complete non-factor. Wonder what happened to that golden touch.

But then again, he didn’t lose his golden touch, he’s continued to get much, much richer. The Post is just a pawn to keep those other ventures thriving. It’s a sacrificial lamb. He knows nothing about the business or integrity or truth. The Washington Post is like a nickel and penny and some lint in his pocket.

It is my opinion that he missed a very important and special opportunity to change history. He could have led the change. But no, he chose to follow the path he’s always taken. Chase that $$$. Hey, nobody is perfect. It would have taken a lot of courage to tell the narcissist with dementia to shove it and then compete with his lies. But of all the people on earth in a position and opportunity to do that, you didn’t.

Hey, I understand, new wife. You can push off on one of I guess many ocean-going vessels or planes and leave this country anytime you want. It’s an easy call not to want to deal with the crazies in this country. Why put yourself in danger of the extremist that would take your challenge like general on the other side leading the charge against them.

But even with all that said, maybe if you didn’t back the movie Melania, you could have saved these layoffs. If you have no future intentions to let the Post regain its integrity, mission and place in the industry, please consider selling to someone who is.

I just hoped if I were in your shoes I would have made a different choice.

To those losing their jobs. My heart goes out to you and your families. I wish you much luck and success in your future.

Lobby of the old Washington Post building. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Ideal 24

The daily prompt is asking me to – Describe your most ideal day from beginning to end. I did a post on this question 2 years ago called Ideal Day, that is still pretty much my fantasy ideal day. But I’ll update it with the below.

My ideal day is today. It’s just beginning and I have no idea what is in store for me. I try to make each day the ideal day. I’ve had that mindset for a little while now. I don’t go into every day like that, but I do usually come around and make part of the day ideal.

My ideal day includes seeing my children. But if I can’t I still think about them and look at pictures of them and write them. And while it’s not like seeing them it still makes the day ideal for me because we are sharing.

My ideal day starts with being able to wake up and get upright. If I got those two things, I got the day by the horns.

Sometimes there is no end to my ideal day. For instance, yesterday ran into this morning which made yesterday great.

When you can appreciate a day, you have had an ideal day.

If you’ve felt loved, it’s been an ideal day.

If your stomach didn’t ache with hunger, it’s been an ideal day.

If you were able to help someone it’s been an ideal day.

I could go on and on about all the wonderful things that make an ideal day. I remember once having the most brutal day when nothing was going right. I got out of my car after a brutal drive home from work. The sun had risen an hour earlier. My neighbor’s garden that is on the edge of our yard was loaded with butterflies. I went over and stood there just watching and actually got one to crawl on my finger. It wasn’t the ideal day at all. But the last couple minutes by that garden allowed me to get a good night’s rest.

I hope you all have an ideal day today.

Ocean City sunrise on one of my ideal days. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Yeah

Some views I always return to. This former lighthouse was a place we have stayed a few times before. Like everything the price has gone up a bit, and it’s been a while since we have been back. When it’s just the two of us, I’ll always check the rates before heading down. The view from the bayfront rooms is great.

It’s one of the few places in town where you feel you have some space and it’s still a quick walk to the beach.

The Lighthouse Hotel. Bayside Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley

The Route 90 bridge behind it has a beautiful sunset over it and then the lights of the cars coming into town flicker between the railings. A quick walk over a foot bridge to Fager’s Island for some fine or casual dining. Then out to the gazebo out on the water after a great meal to feel the warm summer breeze.

Many enjoy the bands and dancing that goes till closing. Of course, this can get a bit crowded during the peak of the season. Which is great because the whole place is one big party.

If I can just hold on for another month or two and escape winter, I’ll be okay.


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Good morning

Good morning from Maryland. I like our state flag. When I come across a shot I’ve taken with one, I’ll find a way to work post it here and there. I love living here. So much of it is positive. I think I also lived here at the perfect time. When it changed from rural to suburbs and city.

I’m loading up one of the Ocean City webcams to catch the morning sunrise over the Atlantic. I’ve been up for a bit, editing and writing. I make a lot of progress early in the mornings. Less distractions, errands, tasks, chores and appointments.

Even though it says Telephone, it’s an ATM. Photo by Mike Hartley

Went to another funeral service yesterday with my better half. Wishing it was the old days when we went to weddings back-to-back weeks instead of funerals.

But today is filled with opportunities to be had. I’ll start the day with improving my personal appearance with a much-needed haircut. I’m going to load the photo bag up and maybe do an hour or two of shooting around our area. Still pretty cold to be out long stretches, for me at least.

My better half has been prepping the house for a visit from a family member. I’ll share a picture of her tomorrow evening. She is certainly the neediest member of the entire family but also easy to love.

It’s funny some days I realize how limited I’ve looked at life for long periods of time in my life. Glad I removed a lot of those obstacles.

Isn’t it great when the waves of life are in sync with your step.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Sands

The daily prompt wants to know – How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life?

Sounds like more of a question for a book instead of a blog post. Both time and events greatly influence my perspective.

For instance, getting married gave me an entirely different life than if I had stayed single. Staying married for almost a half century has shown me things and presented many gifts I didn’t dream of as a youth and has been a wonderful way to experience time.

Sometimes it stands still, but mostly it flies by. I can still see her walking up the aisle with her father. Now with a bunch of grandchildren. I blinked my eyes and wow, here I am. All those things in between have given me a true sense of what is important in life.

My father, passing at a young age has affected me all my life. But the passage of time has made it possible for me to deal with it better.

Retirement changed my perspective about work and careers.

I’ve been around and worked for some very strong women. My mom being the first one of course as a single mother.

When I think of the passage of time, I relate that to all the decisions I’ve made along the way. Some good, some not so. I learned a lot by watching the results of other people’s decisions, so I don’t have to make those mistakes.

The sands of time. That piece was about a foot tall. Photo by Mike Hartley


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foCus

Choosing what to focus on today. I was thinking of doing some painting. Yesterday I downloaded and edited a ton of studio shots I did last week and uploaded some family images. Also, a few blog posts, some housekeeping and emails. Then I worked on a few illustrations.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Making choices each day is harder than I thought in retirement. I guess that is a biproduct of having a lot of interest. But am I losing focus on the one important thing? I never know really with the exception when I make the call to spend time with family and friends.

People and relationships are always the most important. If they are the right ones.

Even though I wonder recently, should I use a little of that family/friend time to work on a few of my projects more. It actually just worked out that way for a while when I was sick and some friends were out of town for a bit. It was an unusual gap in time which turned out to be productive in other ways.

Right now, it’s time for a little face maintenance or as some would say, trimming the beard. Which reminds me I like the few videos I’ve seen of young fathers shaving their beards and then surprising their young kids with the new face. It’s funny how strongly the young ones associate the facial hair with their father and when it’s gone how upset they get. I’m tempted to do it to one of my grandchildren, but I like my beard too much.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Monday was Groundhog Day. Sort of feels like it’s been that each day for the past year.
  • I’m not thrilled about having to go outside today.
  • Lies are always harder and harder to sustain.
  • I can’t imagine being in law enforcement now and being faced with the coming decisions. I think there is something in there about protect and serve.


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Walk or Ride

I like how pictures I take sometimes inspire me to post. I saw this street sign and biker combo and thought of myself. I walk now, but I used to ride. And did I enjoy that. I learned on an 82 Suzuki GS 250 Twin if memory serves me right. Might have been a 450 but I think it was just the 250cc.

Graduated to a larger 1100cc 85 Honda Shadow after that. I wasn’t a daily rider except for short stretches of time. Things have gotten more dangerous around here since I road. Lots more traffic volume and of course lots more people taking chances. If I road now it would be with a group. Most drivers aren’t stupid enough to piss off several bikers, old or not.

I read where sales of new motorcycles have been declining. And the average age of the rider has gotten much older so when these guys stop the numbers will be even worse. An article said the average age of the rider today is 47 and when I got my big bike in 1985 the average was 27 years old. To me that tells me young people are not buying bikes and as these older riders go will a younger generation emerge or will the art be limited to a few.

Then again, the way some states maintain roads you may need a motorcycle to get around in the future.


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Get r done

The daily prompt is asking – Something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.

Well, let me go look at my long list of lists. Wow, I’m better than I thought I would be. I thought I would have a long list of things that I never get around to doing.

But just a few.

  • Fix front gate door and entrance area to patio.
  • I’ve got some old VCR tapes and slides that I need to get digitally converted.
  • I need to start both my chainsaw and generator to make sure they are in good shape.
  • I’ve got to sort out and get rid of some old family items that someone else could make better use of.

I might have to revise this after my better half reads it and could probably add a dozen things I’m not thinking of but is on her mind.

Ah, good old Peoples drug store. Just one of many boxes of slides. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Good Porsche

Looks like it listens to commands. But it won’t be out and about in these weather or conditions in the mid-Atlantic.

I know a few people that love this color. Looks nice on this but I’m not a yellow car owner. The Hawaiian Lei hanging over the rear-view mirror is a nice touch. Photo by Mike Hartley

Our monthly Miata Club meeting yesterday was postponed due to weather. I thought I had missed it because I had a chance to have a meal with my daughter and that is a much higher priority, even if it was a nice summer day.

With it being windy and very cold, like single digits or less, depending on the strength of the wind someone made a wise call. But we have some diehards in the group apparently because they are going to shoot for this coming Sunday and the long-term forecast for that day says a high of 22 degrees and a low of 8. I’ll get back onboard next month.

These winter months are hard on car guys. No shows, no cruising, no washing and waxing and detailing, no top down. AHHHH it’s killing me. I need a garage so I can at least sit in comfort.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • When the temperature is like this, I will find any excuse I can to not go outside.
  • Work, work, work, isn’t it great. Guess I like what I’m doing.
  • When I lose sight of the desk, it’s time to clean.
  • I think I’d like to get a dartboard again.


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Location, Location, Location!

Wine, candles, beautiful fixtures and tub. Bathing on Main Street? Well, to each their own.

There is a place for everything. Photo by Mike Hartley

I would say another start to the week, but time and weeks have become almost irrelevant. Yeah, I have things to do as businesses and government offices reopen. Schools are getting back in session. But really, it’s an open day. The kind I like.

An early start on the computer and some exercise have my spirits up. I’ve had to change my exercise routine a bit. More weights this week while the toe heals. It will be a nice change of pace being I’ve concentrated on the time on the treadmill for the most part.

One thing that is on the agenda for today is dealing with the Department of Motor Vehicles. They have cashed the check for our tag renewals, but we have not received them. And as of yesterday, we don’t have current stickers on our vehicle. This better not result in me having to make a personal visit to a DMV office.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Mondays don’t feel like Mondays used to. And that’s a good thing.
  • Progress begets progress.
  • I’ve got to write and call a few good friends today.
  • I apologize in advance for the cursing outside I’ll be doing while inflating a low tire pressure issue on the car.
  • I find myself smiling at the opportunities ahead of me some mornings.
  • It’s nice to see the sun rising earlier each day now.


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Cook

What’s your favorite thing to cook? – An interesting question from the daily writing prompt.

I have to slip into a different mindset here because I’m usually thinking of my favorite thing to eat. This is really an easy question because I like to grill.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I like cooking burgers and steaks but doing seafood on the grill is a lot of fun. Salmon, scallops, shrimp are a few I do. I’m going to try some lobster tails this year and maybe some stuffed rockfish.

Can’t wait to get some fresh fish on the grill. Photo by Mike Hartley

I do like making that pasta dish with grilled peppers, mushrooms, onions, prosciutto and various spices in a light sauce.

Oh, this seems so simple I almost overlooked it. I love to cook bacon because I can’t wait to get a nice crisp warm piece first thing in the morning. I think I’ll make some in an hour or two.

Mummm. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Flowing

Another water picture to indicate how my weekend is going. That’s because life is flowing smoothly. That calm stream is like my thoughts on this fine day. Ah the first day of February also. Not that dates mean much anymore except for appointments.

I saw my son and his family yesterday and I saw my daughter today. Maybe that is why my spirits are so high. Opportunity to do something special this evening is strong.

Then again so is the throbbing pain in my right foot where I have a severely discolored toe due to ramming it into a piece of ice outside earlier. So, a doctor’s visit might be on the schedule tomorrow in addition to a haircut.

No, I’m not sure what that object is in the water. Photo by Mike Hartley

Being that the treadmill is off the table I’m going to pick up some weights tonight.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • That SNL cold open was a scream last night.
  • The roast for Sunday dinner was great.
  • I could be wrong, but I think this extreme cold has slowed drivers down.
  • Pain can be a re-prioritizer.
  • It seems like the colder it is the more I seem to need rest. Must be that bear in me.


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Computers

The daily prompt wants to know about my first computer again. I answered this question 2 years ago in a post called First Computer.

What I’ve learned in my experiences with computing. And what I’m quickly forgetting.

These tools can be used to help make you smart or stupid.

Like many things man has created, it has made possible wonderful advancements for humanity. It has also been used for much evil.

In some ways it has accelerated the separation of classes in society.

It’s one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done.

Computing through the last several decades was like reinventing yourself every few years along the way because things change so fast.

Some of the most brilliant advances have been made by teams of people who work well together. And sometimes that involves someone who has never touched a computer before explaining and detailing a craft or skill with someone who does know computers.

Computing has been a great part of my life. I have also wasted some of my life on the computer when I should have been living more experiences away from it.

Computing advances so fast and so much equipment becomes obsolete way too fast and creates an incredible amount of waste I suspect.

Computing before BBS systems or the internet was a trip. A fun and frustrating experience at the same time.

I should have kept track of the total of the gazillion miles of cable I’ve strung in my lifetime.

Or thousands and thousands of backup tapes created, stored, stored offsite and demolished in my lifetime.

The hundreds and hundreds of racks assembled and unassembled and moved and the contents within the same in my lifetime.

The storage systems that would take up rows in a datacenter, to the old 20mb SCSI hard drives in a MacPlus if my memory serves me correctly. Well, I did start when we swapped 5 1/4-inch floppy disks in and out of 2 drive bays.

Days in the computing world will seem like Groundhog Day. You know you’ve seen and solved this problem before.

Computer Server rooms and Datacenters are loud. At least the old ones were.

At one time in computing UNIX System Engineering and Database Engineering had to work together to really make things hum. But talk about two different groups of people. Wow. Both extremely skilled but like oil and water a lot of times. Not all cases but just my observation.

For some it’s an endless source of frustration. For others it is an endless challenge of opportunities.

Being I worked in computing environments for decades, the type of people I gravitate towards are the ones who are open and share their knowledge and experiences. And I try to be one of those people for others. I also don’t make personal judgements of you based on your knowledge or lack of in computing.

Quick story. – I had just started at a daily newspaper. I worked in IT and the company was shifting technology, and they were retraining people to use computers for layout instead of the manual ways of doing it piecemeal on a table. Well, a lot of user type problems were generating calls for system issues that weren’t system issues. So, on my way to another area we supported I would always stop and ask how things were going and see they were struggling with the basics. One or two had ok skills but were still entry level. While there I’d just show them easier ways or proper ways to execute things just by watching them or helping with errors they would create or come across. To cut to the chase. A few of them would thank me and say, “you’re the first person from IT who didn’t make me feel like an idiot.”

Well crap, I hadn’t intended on this being so long. And I want to get back to the workroom and do some sanding. Now days, I balance life at the keyboard and away from it much better. In that way retirement has been good to me.

One of my old haunts. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Movement

It’s the weekend so it’s a fluid situation. A swirl of activities, plans and places. As much as possible inside of course. Like this water I’m going to try to increase my movement to keep from freezing over.

There is a sense of urgency in me now again after the holiday season and being under the weather for a while. I have so many half-finished projects that need to be complete. This coming month is a good time to knock all of them out. I’ll refer to it as Finishary.

Why does darker water look deeper? Photo by Mike Hartley

I have prepped one area for a new display. I’ve decided to expand the large print collection of Arlington National Cemetery and add another wall in the basement to it to help me decide on a final series.

A little more sanding on a wooden mug for an old friend and I can get to carving a special figure into it. His initials are on the other side. I’m thinking of adding his nickname to the piece also but might skip that one.

The list is long of things to complete and there is a task at hand before I get to those things. Plus, it’s still the last day of January so I will get a running start this afternoon.

Have a great morning all.


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Jump, ah no

The daily prompt asks – What’s the thing you’re most scared to do? What would it take to get you to do it?

There are a good number of things I fear trying to do. For example, skydiving, bungie jumping or cliff diving leap to mind. They all involve substantial heights so no thank you.

What would it take to get me to do these. The plane would have to be about to crash for me to jump out of it. Nothing is going to get me to bungie jump because I’ve never seen a rubber band that hasn’t broken. I’ve gone off the high dive, but you wouldn’t even get me near a cliff.

Ready to leap the week all the way to the weekend. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Good morning frozen tundra

I know it seems early to be throwing in the towel or crying uncle, but you win COLD.

Give me the strength to make it till spring. Photo by Mike Hartley


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White Out and In

A ton of snow and ice outside that’s going to take a while to disappear. So why not add some white from the inside. Flowers in the heart of winter give hope that there is spring.

I know a few people who love yellow. Photo by Mike Hartley

I’m starting to feel like a block of ice the longer I’m outside.

Random Thoughts of The Day

  • It had better be a very hot and long summer to make up for this winter.
  • Crap, almost out of a few inks for my photo printer, better order today before I run out.
  • I’m worried that my normal dark tan this summer might lead to an unfortunate encounter. I can see a border control asking me a question and my smart ass answering No Habla Ingles.
  • Amazon acquired the film Melina for 40 million dollars and is spending another 35 million dollars on marketing. I see Bezos is going to cut staff at Amazon by 16,000 people and at The Washington Post with number much smaller but with devastating impact. Wonder if that is the tradeoff to make up for the loss?


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Live more, complain less

The daily prompt asks – What do you complain about the most?

I’m trying and being somewhat successful at not spending time in life complaining as much. Oh, I do complain, and the things below are true and I do spend a few minutes each day now but moving on or changing it or adapting to something more positive is the goal.

Right now, I complain about the COLD the most. I don’t complain as much as curse below my breath or out loud. I’m not encouraged to go outside and shoot when it is 2 degrees as the temp reading indicates now. Plus, camera equipment in that cold sometimes is difficult to operate.

I certainly can’t leave out complaining about the current administration in charge of the US Government or whatever is left of it. There is no Republican party, it’s been hijacked by a cult. And a dangerous one at that. This is where I’ve changed complaining into action to make it different for my children and grandchildren.

Oh, let’s see what that leaves on the list of most complained about. I’m sure bad drivers were high on the list at one time but I’m driving less now. Not that I don’t run into one or several each time I leave the driveway.

There is always the constant one of when the price of something/anything hits you in the face and you say #%$*!!!! and complain because the reason for the increase doesn’t make sense.

And every 3-4 weeks I look in the mirror and see that I’m having a bad hair day and complain that it’s time to get to the barber again.

Having a bad hair day. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Doors V4.26

A change of pace for me getting in on the action early in the day for Thursday Doors. I have a fairly long list of excuses for not shooting new doors, it’s cold, it’s very cold, the snow and ice are making it colder, I know I’d be cold, and I bet the camera batteries don’t like the cold.

Therefore, I have reverted again to my vault of photography.

As always, thanks to the creator and host of Thursday Doors. Please follow the link to Dan’s site – No Facilities for far more talented posts and wonderful doors from parts near and far.

Doors with my Comments this week.

No, I don’t care if the sign says Open Come on in! – I’m not going through that door.

Photo by Mike Hartley

These were all shot the same day in November of 2018. About 6 months after a nasty flood which destroyed a good portion of the town.

Security System – If they can’t get to your front door, that’s secure.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Debris is still in the street’s months later. Almost 10 inches of rain in a few hours and overdeveloped surrounding areas spelled devastation for downtown. This old firehouse sits up on the hill, on Church Road, but Main Street is right beside it, and much was lost there.

That’s a hell of a doorbell.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Have a great weekend all.


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Sports likes

The daily prompt asks – What are your favorite sports to watch and play?

Basketball and Baseball are still my favorite sports. College Basketball is my favorite sport. I loved playing basketball and the excitement of watching college games live.

Major league baseball has made some significant changes and is much easier to watch and enjoy now the game has quickened. I also enjoyed playing as a youth. Even made a few all-star teams. Still have my favorite bat.

Sports are a great teaching tool. Lots of things about sportsmanship are important in life also. Working as a team. Having dedicated your mind and body to something. It tests your mental and physical toughness. It can teach respect, admiration, compassion, leadership, and honesty. Sports are GREAT.

I’m depressed to see what they have become at times though. Even down to little league ball. Parents and coaches treating it like life and death. Poor behavior by parents. Kids with attitudes that obviously came from home.

But despite that, the true nature of sports and its benefits are still present in our society despite commercialization and gambling and making it a business that goes down to kids way too young, which is disgusting.

Now there is a creative way to get a child to use a toothbrush. Photo by Mike Hartley

Kids are still learning important values from competition. People are still enjoying the games.

The most recent issue with sports I can think of is sports becoming a class thing. In the last few years, I’ve missed games I could always see because they are moving some to streaming services. Ticket prices for professional sports and some college sports are out of range now for a lot of people. Even middle class. Salaries of players and greed of owners are making the distance between the ones who watch and buy the merchandise to a point where it will break.

Even the cost for the kids to join leagues now is tough for a lot of people to afford.

Photo by DAD.

That’s my little girl about to drive that softball DEEP. I enjoyed participating in both my children’s various sports for some years. Coaching kids is a lot of fun.


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Philly and back

We attended my wife’s uncle’s funeral services today in Philadelphia. Picking up my brother in-law and sister in-law on the way up. Leaving before the sun came up and getting back as it had set. The service was very nice. We had lunch, got some Philly Soft Pretzels and some bakery goods.

My better half and her family are from Philly originally before moving to the suburbs of Baltimore. So, all their family is from there. It’s a great group of people and this leaves only one Aunt still alive and kicking strong. Her husband passed, 13 years ago. He was a fellow lifer in the newspaper business like me, so we hit it off very well. He worked for the Philadelphia Inquirer and I worked for the Washington Post. I miss him greatly. His children and wife are always so welcoming and seem so glad to see me.

After spending about 6 hours behind the wheel today on interstates and city streets not totally clear of the weekend’s snowstorm, I’m back at my desk and ready to ready to create more useless space on the internet.

But before I get back to my twisted programming.

A Couple of Takeaways from Today –

  • Family is important and can be a great source of support and strength.
  • Life is short. And uncle Ron lived to 92. And I know he thought it went by in a flash.
  • Faith and love can carry people a long way in life.
  • It’s very hard to carry on without your longtime better half.
  • Holding hands is a sign of deep love. Especially when the same person has been beside your side for a long time.
  • I don’t deal well with death. It brings back very difficult memories.
Goodbye Uncle Ron. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Warmer thoughts

Sorry, I needed a warm photo to look at. I spent 3 hours outside removing snow and ice yesterday. And given the temps we will be looking at the white stuff for at least another week or more. And talk of another possible storm this weekend. Isn’t life grand. Someone please transport me to spring.

If I remember correctly, I shot this while sitting in my convertible along the side of the road on Rt 99 between Rt 32 and Rt 97. Photo by Mike Hartley

This shot appealed to me for another reason. I’m kind of relaxed and this shot merged with that feeling. I love watching horses graze in the fields during the spring, summer and fall months. There are more than a few horse farms around this way so a short drive will always get me to some.

There are a few obligations today but some more time on the treadmill and picking up a paint brush will be on my agenda and maybe a simple meal out with my better half.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • When I write my grandchildren, I imagine the smile they have when they get my notes and pictures.
  • There is cold and then there is this week.
  • The grouper sandwich at Oscars is great. I also love their crab soup.
  • Look for the good people. They are all around you.


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Win by not playing

What would you do if you won the lottery? There is a question from the daily prompt that I spend very little time thinking about because I don’t really play the lottery.

Oh, I’ve bought a ticket here and there but most years without purchasing tickets at all. The very few times I do buy a ticket I do fantasize for a few moments and then realize I just pissed away a few dollars I could have given to someone who is hungry. Or maybe a disease that needs help in looking for a cure.

The few seconds I do think about it I think I’d give half to my charities and set my kids and grandkids up for life and have a little fun with the rest.

Gambling is so in my face now that I’m pretty much swearing it off. As I’ve said before I think gambling will kill a lot of sports eventually. It’s going to and has already hurt a lot of people. Then again life is a gamble, so have at it if you want. It’s just no longer for me.

Gambling your choice. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Choose wisely

The killings in Minneapolis are unacceptable. My eyes know what they saw and Alex Pretti was executed in public. And while our government who killed him paints every protester injured or killed as a terrorist, I know different. I believe a lot of other people know different.

I’ve had it with the cowards that hold the check and balance in government unwilling to do their jobs. I’ve had it with the Nazi administration and the lies it spews.

This country is going to crap because of the idiot at the helm and the few puppet masters manipulating the fool along with state television. It’s time to hold people responsible for these murders and people above them accountable. It’s time all of us to combat mistruths and wake up from lies.

Active pathways. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Details

Details in life are important. I was very detailed in my work because it was a necessity. So many in life are easily overlooked.

Like this photo. A bit drab indeed. But the guy in the red hoodie by the beach and faint shadow of the freighter in the distance just to his left are easily missed. Especially if you’re looking at this image on a phone or even small laptop, I’m guessing.

Pick through life’s images carefully. Photo by Mike Hartley

I wonder if I’m missing details. Being removed from that type of work for a few years now has certainly changed me. I’m not as hyper or fixated on minute details. I couldn’t take my eyes off screens before. Now I walk away without hesitation.

Retirement is nice. It allowed me to see other things I wasn’t when I was wrapped up in another’s life (the job). Just being more relaxed allows me to look at things differently.

What I once passed by as a throwaway image sometimes now catches my eye and pleases me.


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Books

What books do you want to read? – So, ask the daily writing prompt.

I’ve got two books I just started reading. One I started last year and put down right at the start because something else took priority and one I just got for Christmas this year. They are – How to Know a Person by David Brookes and Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon.

My better half is the book reader in the house. She goes through them like crazy. Not that I don’t read a lot, just more online than books. Most of the books I read in my lifetime were technical in nature for my job. And the other reading was the daily paper.

A good book on a nice day on patio of Whole Foods building. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Two

Two too Shy

Just like my grandchildren at times when they see me with the camera. Photo by Mike Hartley

And two, not so shy.

Being eyeballed. Photo by Mike Hartley

Day two of shoveling snow. And it’s certainly way to, too, two cold outside, with that windchill.


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Vantage point

Some days it’s good to change your perspective. Getting a view not normally taken can bring things to light.

Try the Crow’s Nest. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Traditions

The daily prompt is asking to – Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

My favorite is the family trip to the beach each year. It’s the time together that we don’t get to spend the rest of the year. Watching grandchildren enjoy the beach, water, games and food is a treat for us grandparents. And the time to catch up with our own children and learn more about their lives.

We just did something for the second year in a row now and I think it’s going to be a tradition. Last year for my wife’s birthday the kids and grandkids were over to go out to dinner. Low and behold the surprise was they were going to all spend the night here. If you don’t know, the most precious gift is time itself. It’s a great evening together. The grandkids have the run of the house and our own kids love being back in their home. We made a huge breakfast the next morning and continued the fun. It’s a great way to celebrate.

Family walk. Photo by Mike Hartley

Over time some traditions fade or morph into others. I’ve been thinking about establishing some new traditions for the family and friends. I’m going to host a summer family party at the house. And hopefully revive our summer fishing expeditions. I’d like to get back to having a periodic lunch with my son. And maybe add a few more with my daughter.

Family traditions are great. They help keep families together and in contact with each other. No family or friendship is perfect and there will always be people who choose not to participate. But keep trying because the positives for the people who do choose to share time together is well worth it.


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Beach Thoughts

The snow and sleet are here. So obviously my mind wanders to the shore and sun and sand.

I was just looking at the event calendar for the Ocean City. There are a few things I think we will attend this year that we haven’t before.

Maybe a daytrip for Springfest. We were down for the International Kite Festival and that was cool and I’d love to try some more photography again. There is another kite event in September. Maybe one of the car shows, in May or October. I hear the air show in June is great.

We’ve been wanting to return to the Peach Festival in Berlin MD in August. And if I have my way this year I’ll be hoping in the Miata and taking a few day trips when the weather is warm and sunny.

We haven’t stayed at Bethany Beach in a while so we will add that to the list this year. I was disappointed in my effort to spend time there last year but that won’t be the case this year.

Catching sunrise and sunset completes a day. But catching fish is also fun. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Leisure time

What do you enjoy doing most in your leisure time? – The daily writing prompt asks today.

I like to create. I like to eat. I like to laugh. I like to spend time with my better half. I like to write and photograph. I like to write to my children and grandchildren if I can’t see them. I like to exercise. I like driving. I like to listen to music.

Sorry about the short response this morning, there is snow to shovel.

Yeah, I’m starting to get some snow on my roof also. Photo by Mike Hartley


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White Out

Word is there is a white out on the way in Central Maryland. Just a little moisture coming. So, I’ll think of spring.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I guess I can deal with a few drops of moisture.

Photo by Mike Hartley

But after stepping outside a few minutes ago it’s the cold I’m worried about. I guess I should make sure the batteries on the cameras are charged because this kind of weather takes a toll on them fast.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • When you having trouble going on with life as normal, when things aren’t normal and you stop going on with life as normal, you’re having a normal reaction.
  • It bothers me that trying hard and being smart is difficult for some people to deal with. And no, I’m not talking about me, I’m not smart, but I do know some people who are.
  • And on the health front – Houston, we have a problem – CDC Measles page
  • Fingers crossed that we maintain power to our homes this week. I’d miss working on the blog and photo editing.


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What a weekend

Our children again gave my wife the wonderful gift of time for her birthday. They came yesterday and spent the night and morning with us. I spent the afternoon cleaning up and recovering. I love playing with grandkids so much. And the 9-month-old girl is so precious and expressive she reminds me how special life is.

I could use one of those to clear my driveway of snow. Photo by Mike Hartley

My spirits are up this evening after catching up on some rest. I figure I’ll be out in the middle of the night shoveling a bit depending on how fast and much is falling.

Which reminds me if you don’t see me for a few days we may have lost power. Otherwise, I’ll be right here spitting out some snow pictures and thought of the day.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • How many more lies about people murdered in plain sight will we endure before we all say STOP. Does it have to be one of our own children who is shot before we raise our voices.
  • Been a lot of years since I shoveled significant snow. And my daughter reminded me yesterday that I missed the last really big one 10 years ago because I had just finished radiation treatments for a few months. And my children dug us out.
  • I love the quiet of snow in the early morning hours before sunrise.
  • But right now, I’m enjoying some aggressive rock and roll. I’ve got to get in the right frame of mind to get through the mess of weather on the way. I’m going to be Neil Peart with a shovel.


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Next Stage

I’ve always thought of life as one continuous thing as I was going through it. I never broke it down in stages. Maybe because it’s been kind of scrambled. I was doing a lot more mature things when I was young and sometimes behaving like a youth when much older. And too busy most other times to be concerned with anything other than surviving the next day.

As I was working throughout my career I wasn’t thinking about retirement till the last 4-5 years of it. And that was because I wasn’t happy where I found myself at the end of the run. It wasn’t that I disliked what I did though.

There were a few factors like the night shift which after many years was getting to me like it didn’t when I was younger. The new ownership and changes in upper management were something that I also thought was going in the wrong direction and the personal feel and draw it once had was gone. As were many old friends.

Here I am now 2 years and 3 weeks into what is coined “Retirement” and I’m loving it more each day. In some ways I’m still adapting to it. Sleep is still an issue. I go back and forth between establishing some routines and then going freestyle.

I think the word retirement gives some negative connotations. In some ways it could make one think of someone no longer being of use or being put out to pasture. That knowledge or value was no longer keeping up. Or maybe no longer working on anything.

I do know that even though I have Retired on my LinkedIn profile, I still get a lot of contacts about people wanting me to come back to work. Thanks, but no thanks, I’ve found some things I’d much rather spend the rest of my life doing and pursuing.

In some ways I didn’t think about retirement as I was going along for a few reasons. The ride was a wonderful one and why get off a train, that is so fun. And of course, the financial needs of providing for a family.

But the incentive I also had periodically was people my age and younger passing away. Not that I hadn’t had my own personal wake up calls a few times, but the balance of having enough money vs the time in life left to enjoy a few more days with my better half and children was swinging towards the latter.

Wanting to spend time with children and grandchildren, old and new friends was overwhelming. And experiencing some places, adventures, foods, loves, feelings and sights that work couldn’t make time for is something I finally have prioritized.

Just having the time to work on my favorite hobbies while doing these other things has been a great opportunity that not everyone is able to enjoy. So, I feel fortunate. I have friends my age and younger that probably can’t afford to retire.

We won’t be jet setting around the world. Don’t have the money or desire but some trips are possible, I hope. And we are smart enough to know that we can enjoy a day trip as much as an extravagant vacation.

It will be a few months longer till I’ll be doing some ZZZ’s here. Photo by Mike Hartley


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To Visit Yet

The daily writing prompt asks – Name an attraction or town close to home that you still haven’t got around to visiting.

I’d like to get to the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. If you would like to see large aviation this is the place. The Concorde, A B-29, The space shuttle Discovery, and the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane. Plus, admission is free. Parking is $15 I hear.

I’d also like to see the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC. I’d better get to this one quickly the way someone is trying to erase history.

Washington Monument and Capital. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Found the spot

Finding the right spot in life is never ending search.

Find your calm. Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ll be finding my peaceful spot on Sunday while shoveling snow. It’s always so quiet outside early in the morning. I’m always the first one outside. Especially when it’s going to be a deep snow, I’ll do it in a few sessions. Now if the back will hold up for the duration, we will be good.


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Advice

The weather is about to turn to crap. So don’t leave the door open or be a pushover for the cold wind.

Some real s**t about to go down. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Doors v3.26

A mishmash of doors from small towns near me.

As always, thanks to the creator of Thursday Doors and please follow the link to Dan’s site – No Facilities  for far more talented posts. I hope you’re continuing to feel better Dan.

I’m sliding into another Thursday Doors a day late, unprepared and having to dive into the archive again, so I thought it appropriate to start with a sliding door.

This door is closed but they also post a sign that says Be Happy in the window.

Watch your step outside that second story door.

Isn’t anything open today?

Photos by Mike Hartley


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Five Funs

The daily writing prompt wants me to – List five things you do for fun.

Be with my children and grandchildren. Spend time with my better half. Drive my roadster. My artistic hobbies. And spending time with friends.

As our friend Capt Dan would say. Yeah Buddy. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Burst

No, it’s not the 4th of July. But I still like the burst of color and if you use your imagination, you can hear a boom. I’m not feeling as spry as this flower and there is still much to do today.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Interesting, it will be almost 10 years to the day that this area had its last big snowfall. 2016 was 2 feet or more. I’m not sure just like anyone isn’t about this weekend but each day the target on us seems to grow.

I’ll need gas for the generator which I’ll get today. I also have a few other tasks before test starting it Saturday afternoon. Then I’ll bring it back inside and hope it isn’t needed.

The shovels are at the ready. I’ll be doing it in stages. Hopefully it will be light and I can plow it.


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Good morning

In editing some photos this morning, I ran across this image just as I was contemplating either a pop tart or piece of cinnamon toast for breakfast.

The waffles, strawberries, and grapes look more appealing than that pop tart in the foil wrapper. Saturday I’ll be cooking a big breakfast for the family. Well, I’ll be helping with the bacon, sausage, toast and muffins, preparation and cleanup. My better half is making the main dish.

I hope you all are having a good breakfast this morning. Photo by Mike Hartley

I almost didn’t recognize this as our kitchen. It’s got to be almost 10 years old. The table is gone, the walls are not green, and I know the floor has changed. My better half redesigned our kitchen, and it’s beautiful. I know she wants to get into the basement, but I’ve kept her at bay so far.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Feeling recharged after seeing my best friends last night.
  • Looks like an opportunity to get some snow pictures coming up.
  • Managing to increase my exercise time this week.
  • What an embarrassment that speech was yesterday by Trump. Then again aren’t they all.
  • This coming week I won’t be going outside without my gloves on.


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Pets and Love

If you could make your pet understand one thing, what would it be? – Asks the daily writing prompt.

The one thing would be that they are loved. And yes, I believe I’ve made all my pets understand that. And I’m glad that skill and ability is in my children also.

This girl was our most recent love and yes, she did love us. She was so affectionate and playful and even though she was our son’s dog, we treated her as our own. She passed recently so our hearts are still heavy.

Sporting Maryland colors obviously. Photo by Mike Hartley