THREW Mikes EyEz

Original Writings, Images, Video and Artworks of Mike Hartley


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We Deliver

Deliver everything. How friggen lazy have we gotten. I’ve never used Door Dash or Uber Eats or many other delivery services. We will drive to pick up our carry-out. Yes, we have deliveries. From Amazon which does not make me happy because I’m no Jeff Bezos fan.

I find it amazing how fast our society has transitioned to buying online. You can see it caught a lot of people off guard, like the ones who own all those shopping malls and strip centers and invested in building more. These are now great spaces for car groups to meet up or seasonal carnivals. Huge empty parking lots and empty buildings.

Bring it. Photo by Mike Hartley

It spurred a whole new industry, porch pirates. It’s certainly put more, not less trucks on the roads. It’s further reduced human contact and experiences. I bet it increased the use of fossil fuels, think of all the people ordering one or two items at a time. How many times did you go shopping and just get one or two things. You picked up what you needed for a while. You thought and you made a list. Now it’s when the whim strikes.

Not to mention the manipulation that goes into online buying.

Oh, and online ticketing is very uncomfortable to me. I like physical tickets. I don’t want to be forced to take my phone to an event. And that uncomfortable feeling if my phone were to die.

If you think we reduced our destruction of forest for the newspaper industry which is disappearing, for the most part guess again. It has been replaced by the cardboard box industry.

Yes, it has a lot of great advantages for the elderly, disabled and those needing meds fast and many other things. But I liked running into neighbors or old friends at the store or parking lot. Yeah, I’m older so I’m not with this because I think I experienced something better and now it’s getting lost.

You’re NEVER NEVER going to see me buying a car online. If I can’t get the dealer to flip me the key and let me test that stick shift it’s NEVER NEVER going to be a deal.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I haven’t added my thought on Trump and his team of knee benders being one of the most disgusting groups of human beings on the planet for a day or two now have I. Well, there you go.
  • March, a month of temperature swings.
  • I wonder if delivery will be free if gas starts getting outrageously expensive.
  • Nice to be able to get a few tanning days in March.


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I’m Up

Just went looking around for someone else who is up. Didn’t find anyone. Pretty normal for this time of night. No problem, I’m an expert at entertaining myself. Loneliness is not possible when there is always me myself and I to have a group chat with. I’ve always been a bunch of mixed-up personalities anyway.

Just put the headphones on so I won’t disturb those resting. I needed some music this morning. Was a bit down last night and fell asleep early so I’m up early. What a tangled mess I weave. Music is helping as it always does, getting my thoughts moving in a more positive direction.

It might not look like it but I’m up. Photo by Mike Hartley

Funny I just had a flashback to when I worked a shift where I was getting off work around 3-4am in the morning and those drives home on hot summer nights were great. The pinnacle of NO TRAFFIC. Once I cleared the city line and got onto the highway, I would crank up the volume on my favorite songs and just cruise along at the speed limit or less because of all the wildlife out at that time.

Those were some of the most relaxing rides imaginable. Just having completed a long shift. The dark, quiet and empty highways. Yeah, there was the occasional drunk who finally found his/her keys an hour after the bar closed still trying to make it home. And yes, I used to see a lot of them. But for the most part it was a sweet trip.

Speaking of sweet trips. Today was a top-down day filled with country roads. Boy was it beautiful and did it feel good.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I hope I can go through the rest of life and not need all those drugs I see advertised on TV.
  • Getting my mind to slip into exercise mode is the trick I’ve learned to be consistent.
  • Party like it’s your last week. Thought inspired by the band The Doobie Brothers song, The Doctor
  • When a child smiles it’s genuine. When an adult smiles you can’t always be sure.


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Century

Write a letter to your 100-year-old self. – Now there is an interesting task from the daily prompt.

Dear Mike,

First, congratulations on your making it to the century mark. You are a medical miracle at this point and have defied just about everyone’s expectations.

Secondly it must have been great to have that last 30 or so years to fulfill our dreams. You had better finish a few books and of course built an incredible library of images and art.

I hope our better half is still by our side. Your great grandparents by now. I know you’re driving a stick shift of some kind, be it the old Miata you kept or the wheelchair you might be in.

Probably still rocking out to our old classic rock as you are the 3am hour of night like tonight.

You had better still be laughing as best possible and making others laugh.

I’m guessing you have had to endure some great losses along the way. I know you had losses throughout life. That must be tough not to have many if anyone left to share them with you.

If you’re getting this message, take a ride in this. You will both be 100 years old and still kicking. Look out at the ocean, remember your young self with your family on the beach and in the pool.

This will be 100 along with me. That would be kind of ironic. My dad had a 57. Photo by Mike Hartley


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I love comic strips and cartoons

I ask for daily desk calendars usually for Xmas. The old Far Side ones are great and had me chuckling this morning. Anything that makes me laugh each day is great. I enjoy political cartoons and some of the older comic strips.

I’ll look at the daily comics occasionally and follow a few cartoonists online but it’s for the laugh. You have to laugh. And late in life, I’ve learned the more you know the more you can laugh at.

I loved watching Looney Tunes and Warner Brothers cartoons and still load the occasional YouTube clip to just sit in mindless enjoyment for a few minutes.

Sometimes I think someone could make a cartoon of some of my friends and my life. Just ask our wives, our logic is impeccable. Well maybe impeccably flawed most of the time but we make them laugh. And I mean we make them laugh hard sometimes. We are often called a bunch of characters by many. It’s certainly an animated group. Of course, the dialog boxes about the characters might not have enough room for all our banter.

But the important piece here is that you find something yourself, to help you smile, to elicit a laugh, to make you feel better.

I wrote this piece well before I took these photos, but I couldn’t resist combining two of my passions here.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Oh yeah, Coyote

Photo by Mike Hartley

And the winner is Road Runner

Photo by Mike Hartley

Watch your doors with this guy.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Big Block

Where would you go on a shopping spree? – An interesting question from the daily prompt.

I’m not much of a shopper and never had the money to go on a spree. And if we did, we went for the kids.

Let’s see, what do I like shopping for? Classic cars are nice, always wanted one. So, I guess car shows is where I could pick and choose what I want. The one below would be more than fine.

Getting a nice camera, not that I’m embarrassed about what I use, it’s just not top of the line stuff. Anyway, it’s not the camera picking the subject matter or choosing the time to press the shutter.

But if I did have money to blow, I’d probably use it to make sure my kids and grandkids are better off or get them something special. And get my better half something nice.

Always nice to dream. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Just strolling through life

Saw a friend out and we acknowledged each other. He’s not too talkative. Occasionally he has an attitude where he will stomp his foot which means I’m not in the mood for it today. Sometimes though he and others will stand there and let me yap at them. They will even resume grazing.

I think I’ll name him soon. Photo by Mike Hartley

I won’t be strolling the next two days. I’ll be out strutting. I’ve been waiting all winter to get that top down on a nice day and stretch my legs in that Miata. Also, a nice long walk outside instead of the treadmill will be nice. I think I’ll get some carry-out also and have lunch outside. It’s been a while since that treat.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Does it feel like the good old days are behind us?
  • I spent a couple of hours working for free for Verizon again today troubleshooting their issues. This is getting old.
  • The weekends activities are wrapped up. Time to relax and enjoy a quiet evening.
  • If you like Krispy Kreme doughnuts tomorrow is the day to go. A free dozen with a purchase of a dozen glazed.


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Obscurity

There are benefits to being a rather obscure blogger. I don’t get hate comments, so far. My grammar or images might not be the best that day, or many days. That’s fine with me because I’m learning by doing.

I’m fine with it because it’s kind of a selfish effort. I do it for me and anyone else who could get enjoyment out of it. Be it a laugh, an emotion from a picture. Or maybe a random thought that connects with someone.

I do it for my family so they might have something to reflect on later because I know they are too busy to keep up with this now.

I create in hopes that something comes together that fits in with the wonderful work I see others create with such ease and frequency.

I’ve been reminded through my professional career that it’s the journey that’s the fun part, not the destination. So, I’ll get my lunch pale, tools and gloves and get to work each day.

Put in a good day’s work. It’s always rewarding, even if you encounter a few a-holes along the way. Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ve always liked to work. I don’t like to refer to my hobbies as work, but they are work. I devote time and effort to them just like a job. Just with a lot more personal passion and fun, mixed with the limitations of time being a senior citizen and busy grandparent.

Sometimes in life I’ve felt obscure, almost invisible. Lots of times actually. And the older I get the more that feeling seems to come around. I guess that is why I feel okay with it. I’m cool with doing my own thing and enjoying life as I cook it up each day.


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Another thought instead

I’m not into the question of the day – What is your middle name? Does it carry any special meaning/significance?

The only person who used my middle name was my mother and that is when she wasn’t happy with me. So that is all I have to say about my middle name.

Onto this thought then. – Days I spend with my grandchildren, I find life much clearer, fun, loving and simpler.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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Waiting for your ship to come in

Waiting for your ship to come in? Referring to becoming successful or wealthy as the dictionary says. Not me, because I’m not interested in it either. I do feel successful in my own ways but not in a way society would judge as successful. And I have wealth but not the monetary kind.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I think I’m happier not chasing riches or fame. I’ve chased financial stability, which is also quite illusive, but never riches. Success is not measured by others. You have to be good with yourself. I bet if Michael Jordan had only given 50% effort and was still the best player in the game the success wouldn’t have been as sweet.

That term – waiting for your ship to come in – is one I think of when I see people playing the lottery or gambling. That ambition for much more. The disappointment when it doesn’t come. I’m drawn to that, but I know how dangerous that mindset is for me. So, I don’t gamble.

I refuse to do these betting apps or services. It’s too easy and too addictive. When I think about gambling, I think there is someone who is hungry, that could use a meal or sick and in need of a cure. So, I donate to those causes instead.

I don’t know where the right balance is. My current impression is that we swung too far the other way and have incorporated gambling and sports together and I worry that it could be the death of some sports when coaches, players, refs, owners get caught up in it. It’s just too much money for some people to pass up.

Many don’t even realize their ship has already come in with the gifts already received. That is kind of sad. One of the good things about not having it all is you appreciate what you have more. I look at some having it all in monetary wealth, as a burden.

Random Thoughts of the Early Morning

  • I get to see children smile later today. I’ll let that good feeling carry me till then.
  • Care about yourself, there can be many times in life where you will need that.
  • Work on creating a space in life where you can thrive.
  • It’s a very exciting family day.


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The spot to be

Good morning isn’t it wonderful to wake up to another day. I’m beginning to wonder if the sun is going to make an appearance again. Talk about your dark, foggy, wet dreary weeks. Here is hoping for much better days ahead.

I’m looking forward to getting to the beach before sunrise and laying in the sand or standing out on the rocks watching the day begin this spring, summer and fall.

Life is a beach. Photo by Mike Hartley

I could spend the day looking out over the water.

I took my first Uber this year.

I’ve never watched UFC MMA fighting. But I love the sport of boxing.

I always had a beard because I like it. But the time and expense I save by not having to shave each day is a nice side benefit.

I like placing good memories in my children and grandchildren minds for all time.

When I retired, I dropped keeping up with technology like a hot potato.

Did you ever have a day without one problem? Me neither.

I used to like watching CBS.

I finished my first painting in decades this year.

I have the desire to ride a skateboard again, but the sense not to.

This has been a year of big changes. Keep’em coming.

Ignoring spell/grammar check at times, makes me feel powerful.


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Learn again

What is the last thing you learned? – asks the daily prompt.

I learned my energy bill was high again when it came yesterday. I learned that starting and ending the day with music is a positive way to go. I learned my expectations of people are far too great.

He can play that horn. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Swimming Along

I didn’t answer the daily writing prompt till almost 11am this morning. Usually, I knock that out well before 6am. I was up early this morning at 12:30am but failed to do it before I went back to bed for a few hours at 6am.

Now I’m feeling better and I’m back in the swim. I’m getting my weight back under control. I got a little sloppy with sweets the last few weeks.

This is going to be a good year. A good start and hopefully a strong spring season ahead. I’m feeling a little more inspired today hopefully I can maintain that and make it a productive Friday.

Motion. Photo by Mike Hartley

There is a song by The Who called Who Are You. I find asking that of myself often. I think I’ve discovered it’s a journey of constantly finding out more about yourself. Just when I think I know myself pretty well, I’m amazed at finding something new. One might think by this age discoveries would be far and few between.

On the contrary, you’re tested more as you age into your senior years. You find courage and mental coping abilities you never suspected you would need. Challenges still are there every day plus some you didn’t count on.

I’m trying to embrace this stage of life. Mentally, I still feel very young. The grandkids seem to think so because they like playing with me. I’m trying to stay more active than I’ve been in years. I escape depressions faster. I’m still learning each day and figuring out what is important.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Even in retirement I wear a suit for half the year. A sweat suit that is.
  • Hegseth is really overcompensating for something.
  • Sometimes I miss standing in a crowd of tens of thousands of people at a rock concert singing along to one of my favorite bands. But watching live performances on YouTube is a lot more comfortable now. Not that I don’t get out of the chair and play a little air guitar.
  • Another day and Trump is still a blight upon this country and the world.
  • There is wealth in happiness.


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Question

The daily prompt asks – What is one question you hate to be asked? Explain.

Would you like fries with that? No, I’m just kidding. This is a tough one for me because I like questions. They make me think. Hopefully I will have the answer to help someone. And in the process maybe learn something new myself.

Where do you want to go to dinner is up there but not a hate level, just dislike.

How are you feeling? The question is okay as long as the first answer I give is enough regardless of what it is. If I look like crap and I say I feel fine, please leave it at that.

How did your cancer test go? This is far too personal except for my family. Other people I know that have also survived I don’t even ask about tests. I ask how they are doing. If they want to share, I’m all ears but if they say fine or so far so good, I say great. I’ve had to tell my children 2 times that I’ve had cancer and that is one of the worst parts about it. I hope I never have to tell them that something is wrong again.

Thrashers French Fries. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Doors v9.26

Time for the weekly Thursday Doors challenge with our host 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.

Well, I missed posting on Thursday by 40 minutes but better late than never.

Life consumed me again this week. That and poor weather when the opportunity did rise has led me to the photo vault again this week. A mish mash of entrances. Some with an OPEN-DOOR Theme today.

On a trip about 16 years ago to Florida with my best friends, we visited the Navy Seal Museum in Fort Pierce.

Photo by Mike Hartley

This open door seems lost on Main Street traffic.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Doors of the Georgia Grace Cafe in Ellicott City.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I never ate at Bobby Van’s in Washington DC, but heard it was very good.

Photo by Mike Hartley

The Big Sale – No Sale

Photo by Mike Hartley

What’s behind door #2

Zonk you lose. Photo by Mike Hartley

Amazing it still goes up.

Photo by Mike Hartley


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A cold season

This season for the University of Maryland men’s basketball team hasn’t gone to well. It’s one of those years when I don’t get to pick them in a pool to go all the way again. I’ve been following them for 58 years, and they have made the tournament 31 years. We are used to sitting on the edge of our seats on selection Sunday to see where we are seeded in the tournament. We plan for the tournament games together. Not this year.

Last night was their next to last regular season game. And it didn’t go well against Wisconsin. The Badgers are 6th in the Big 10 and a lock to make the tournament with a 20-6 record entering the game.

Truth be told, Maryland is not out of it yet. They would have to with the Big 10 tournament, not being a gambler, I would still say the odds of that are off the charts. So, the likelihood of a much different March Madness this year looms. Oh, I’ll still watch the games because it’s still the most exciting thing in sport on TV.

The cold of winter is about to be scorched by March Madness. Photo by Mike Hartley

My friends have been pretty hard on the new coach Buzz Williams this year. I hope to prove them wrong with a good season next year and remind them of their jump in judgement.

Well onto a new day and new challenges. I’m off to a good start with exercise. Also getting busy with some future plans for spring and summer.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I see the Senate failed to do their job yet again yesterday to reign Trump in.
  • I wish some memories of my early youth didn’t stand out so much.
  • Started way too many projects at one time.
  • For a long time, I didn’t know how to change my attitude on my own.
  • There are situations in life when you realize the effort isn’t worth it any longer, it’s kind of a sad day.


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Good again

How has a failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success? – Asks the daily prompt.

I answered this question 2 years ago in a post titled – Righting Failure – but I’ll add a new one to the list.

Midway through my professional career I decided to go out on my own, with two partners and form our own business. It didn’t work out for me, and I felt like I failed. I wasn’t really suited for role I was playing. Starting over again from 40 years old is scary but I landed a great job at The Washington Post and spent the rest of my career there.

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


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List

I just realized I have a lot of lists. I guess it’s a lot, it feels like a lot now that I’ve counted it. And even on those lists, there are sub-lists. Either I’m really organized or just a poor finisher who never completes anything and therefore list just grows.

The truth is somewhere between those two. I do complete and cross off a lot of stuff on my lists. But there is a lot of stuff on those lists still.

The lists are good. It’s a spot to come back to when you lose your way. Looking at them helps you sometimes prioritize better. Sometimes you have something on the list that one day you say, I don’t want to do that and remove it.

Lots of people use lists. I see a lot of them in the grocery stores and during holiday times. I see people walk into the auto repair shop with a list. You see people buying lunch for a team of people with a list.

Sometimes when I get to run errands, I’ll write myself a list, so I don’t skip by a needed stop.

I like it when we forget our list. Both my better half and I have called each other to take a picture of the list and text it to us because we left it on the counter and went out the door without it.

I guess people still ask for birthday and Christmas gift lists.

The List of my Lists

  • General To Do list
  • Photography list
  • Paint and Drawing list
  • Woodworking list
  • Blogging idea list
  • Home project list
  • Yard project list
  • Travel list
  • Reading list
  • Medical appointment list
  • Car modifications list
  • Exercise list
  • Watching Grandchildren list

We need to get a list of fishing dates. It’s been many years since we have been out together.

FISH ON. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Sleep freak

I have no regular sleep pattern. I was doing okay for a while after retirement, but it didn’t last. I’m up all hours of the day and night. I nap mainly. An hour here, 2 hours there, maybe 3 or 4 hours when I actually get in bed. But no longer usually. I guess that works for me.

I wake up lots of times due to my restless mind. The majority are aches or spasm related that disturb my rest. Sounds also play a part in that because I guess I hear very well still.

I have no trouble falling asleep. But still, a few hours and I’m awake. I’m getting better at making use of the time instead of fighting it. And I think that is helping when I do lay down for some rest again. I’ve stopped being frustrated when I wake up.

Like this evening, I fell asleep around 9:30pm and woke at 1am and worked till 6:30am and then nap for another 3 hours.

There is still the occasional night, that I’m just up all night and sleep a few hours during the day.

Maybe after a certain number of years of working night shifts, you become part or wholly nocturnal.

I love standing outside on a summer evening looking at the darkness and listening to the sounds of the night. Photo by Mike Hartley

Tonight, I will probably flip the script and stay up till 2-3am and then crash for 3-4 hours. I can’t wait till it warms up so this nocturnal creature can start venturing out at night again.


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Autobiography sentence

The daily prompt asks – You’re writing your autobiography. What’s your opening sentence?

Wow you’re still alive!

I don’t know why I chose that sentence. Someone once said it to me, and it popped in my mind when I read the prompt. I never thought about writing an autobiography. In some ways when I think about writing one it is appealing. I don’t know how interesting my story would be. Lots of ups and downs. Lots to be thankful for. Lots of scars and pain. A lot like other people’s lives.

Life’s twists and turns Photo by Mike Hartley


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Uncle

This doesn’t look like spring to me. Snow on Monday and Tuesday morning. Then freezing rain and then rain and now we have fog. At least the cover is on the car, and I don’t have to go anywhere if I choose not to. Not the start to March I was looking for.

Monday was both a productive and lazy day. A good start to the morning but I faded before lunch and took a nap. The late afternoon I’ve gotten very busy and I carried it into the early evening. Passed out at 9:30 and was up at 2am this morning having some fun.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I saw my daughters and granddaughters’ school was delayed 2 hours yesterday. Hopefully the last delay of the year for them.

Tuesday was productive editing photos, making more prints and uploading images. Felt tired and crashed early

Photo by Mike Hartley

Photography Thoughts of the Day

  • A good day is when many prints come out of the Canon Pro-100. Today was a good day.
  • Finished shooting the remaining old cameras this morning.
  • I always share my work with a bit of trepidation discomfort. I fear that it could be substandard and that if I thought it was good that it wasn’t acknowledged that way. It’s a daily challenge I’ve grown to love.
  • I’m redesigning my office walls with hundreds of photos. I like being surrounded by the faces in my life.
  • Learned a few more things on my camera today that I didn’t know before. I need to remember my old moto – RTFM


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Getting a leg up

Always someone wants to climb the ladder higher. Some willing to step all over you. I’m glad to be out of that rat race. When I started off work it was much more team orientated. When I left it was like we were set up to compete against one another. A bit of a contrast but that is life, I guess.

I have a 28-foot ladder and that looks like only the second highest along this wall. Those taller ones are impressive.

Window painting maintenance along Main Street in Ellicott City. Photo by Mike Hartley

I try to avoid ladders now but being a homeowner makes that impossible. The occasional cleaning of the gutter guards and power washing the siding require some ladder time. I’ve pretty much cleaned out the attic so no need to get up there. My better half doesn’t like me on ladders since one of our neighbors fell and passed.

I’m not climbing social ladders, I’m not climbing political ladders, I’m not climbing popularity ladders. I guess the climbing I do now is when I set the incline on the treadmill.


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Walk

I’m walking much more this year and I’m feeling better for it. I’ve exceeded last year’s effort already and hope to increase my time as I go throughout the year. Most days my back feels better for it. At least I’m having more good days than not. Days when my back does ache, it’s sometimes difficult to get on the treadmill. And I usually limit the time those days.

I like walking in and around Ellicott City. Photo by Mike Hartley

Soon I’ll be outside again, and I’ll need to remind myself to watch the terrain a bit. Plus, the difference when I’m walking outside, is that I’m usually carrying a camera of some type.

Then there is the hiking walking when I choose that route, more inclines and dips, uneven footing even on worn trails. One thing I have to get this year is a harness strap vest for heavy cameras. I’ve seen a few that have one mounted on the middle of the chest and one on the hip. They look like they distribute the weight much better than just having a heavy camera around my neck which hurts both my neck and lower back after a while.

Today I’ve gotten a good start already having put an hour in on the treadmill.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • The government clown show continues. And it gets worse every day.
  • Saw a pair of beautiful foxes hunting in our backyard yesterday.
  • The time in between eating bacon is the hardest.
  • Reading more each day feels good.


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Objects

What are three objects you couldn’t live without? – Asks the daily writing prompt.

At first, I really had a hard time thinking of objects I couldn’t live without. I don’t like to think there is any material thing I could live without. But really, it’s a good question to think about. Simple things like fires or natural disasters can take everything in the blink of an eye.

Thinking of losing everything and only keeping 3 things would be tough. So, you start to think about what isn’t replaceable. The little things over time from the grandkids, my own children, the little things my better half and I have done together and saved. The things we have saved from our parents that mean the world to us.

I’d be very depressed if I lost all my images, artwork and writing. I wanted to include this in the 3 but that would be selfish. I would go on living and creating new ones.

I really like my old Miata and driving that. But I lived without it. I grew up without all the digital devices we have today so I know I can live without them.

I guess I would have to pick 3 personal items. One of my mom and dad’s things I’ve kept. Maybe his burial flag and her scarf. Next would be a personal item from my life with my better half. Maybe the ring or a photo of us when we were young. Last would be a big chest of all the photos of the children and grandchildren we have from birth to now.

Held up well after 8 plus decades. My grandmother gave this chest to my father before he went into the Navy in 1940. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Here’s the beef

Saturday, I found the gift card I got for Xmas from my better half to the local pit beef stand called The Canopy. I had a taste for a pit beef sandwich with BBQ and tiger sauce on it, an order of fries and their coleslaw is great so an order of that also.

The Canopy. Photo by Mike Hartley

Sorry, I get excited about food. And we like The Canopy and have been going there for decades. My better half said her pit turkey sandwich was the best she’s ever had.

On a mission. Photo by Mike Hartey

When Mission BBQ opened just a few hundred feet down the road a few years back, I thought this might be a serious challenge to them. But The Canopy seems as strong as ever though. I’d rather support local businesses than chains. Not that I haven’t been to Mission BBQ a few times.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ve got to come up with a few menu items for the coming week. I’d like to cook at least 2-3 dinners a week. This is a busy week coming up for my better half.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Do you ever feel you’re being tested without knowing it.
  • I don’t like it when my better half doesn’t feel her best.
  • I’m surprised to still see trees standing with the number of sticks and branches down.
  • Progress during difficult times is even more rewarding.
  • I’m thinking about all the people in harm’s way now because one man has an ego problem. And what is this going to war without Congress approval? Maybe that body of our government could grow a pair and get control of the situation. Of course, that should have happened long ago, but they advocated their power. The sad part is it’s just a distraction for the ills at home and the Epstein mess.


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And we’re off

Is a week a week?

A new week, so says the calendar. I’m not really on a schedule, but so many others I interface with are on that work schedule which begins today. Mine has no beginning and end. It’s just when I decide to take a break.

It’s somewhat different not having that weekly reset. The weekly staff meeting reviewing last week’s work and the coming weeks ahead hasn’t been part of my life for a few years now.

Those short- and long-term goals list that the manager wanted is long gone and I just add and subtract as I want now. Nobody but myself reviews my performance.

I’ll always be wishing my children a good week ahead on Monday. Asking my better half what we have this week is still pretty much my routine. And wishing my best friends a good week at the job is a Monday habit even before I retired.

The shows on tv sometimes remind me of the day of the week. Doing the daily blog always keeps me aware of the date and day. But the further removed I get from that weekly cycle, the more relaxed and freer I feel.

So, while I wish you all a great week ahead, I’m taking it more day by day and seeing what life brings me.

I haven’t missed the commute back and forth to work at all. But I have become too much of a homebody and need to get out more.

In the background I hear the local news talking about possible snow. I’m going to keep a brighter outlook and ignore that nonsense. I can hibernate for a few more days if needed.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Photography Thoughts of the Day

  • Uploading prints to my photo site is pleasing. Making prints makes me happy.
  • One of today’s assignments is to finish shooting all the family cameras I have collected. I’ll post them here when finished editing.
  • An old camera can take a fine picture. At least that is what I’m hoping, most of mine are old.
  • Textures have been appealing to me lately. I ran a few shots of wood this past week. I’m photographing some more.
  • I’m going to try to finish reading the book – The Photographers Playbook in the next day or two.


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Grow 2

The daily prompt wants to know – What experiences in life helped you grow the most?

I answered this question two years ago in a post called GROW and those observations are still true today, but I’ll add a few more below.

Playing sports.

Building my deck.

A few people I respect told me they saw something special in me. That I was capable of greater things than my current state and position.

The experience of grandchildren has allowed me to really relish the wonderful parts of children again without all the stress of raising and supporting them all over again. Well, we do spoil our grandchildren, so I guess in some ways we still support them.

I spoke about retirement in the first post about this question. I was only 2 months into retirement at that point. Now 2 years later it’s the gift of time in life that I’ve realized is so special. I feel more like myself again, not a bundle of stress running from one thing to the next. Well, I still do that now but with a smile on my face, because I’m doing the things I love.

Grow baby grow. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Driftwood

The textures and colors in driftwood appeal to me.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Pieces washed ashore in storms.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Soaking up sun after being adrift for so long.

Photo by Mike Hartley

Or basking in the shade.

Photo by Mike Hartley

And some seem to yearn to get back to the sea.


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Soaring

I got to spend the day with my son and grandson attending a University of Maryland basketball game and then having a meal together. What a great time that was. That little guy makes me feel so loved. He wanted me to carry him a lot today and he sat on my lap almost the entire game. And he wanted to sit by me for the meal. Of course I had to share my milkshake with him.

Back to being a solo pilot. Photo by Mike Hartley

Unfortunately, Maryland didn’t win the game but I’m a winner today without a doubt. I hope I’m granted many more days together with all my children and grandchildren. This is a special week coming up also with another grandchild’s birthday celebration.

It’s also a week where the schedule is pretty open. We don’t get many of those weeks, so we had better take advantage of it. I know I’m making lots of plans already. Most of it is working on the hobbies.

A summer sunset in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley

Photography Thoughts of the Day

  • I could make better use of my equipment. I don’t take my tripod and monopod with me enough and I’m getting older and less steady.
  • Putting more images up here and being less wordy is a goal. More of my original intention also.
  • I don’t have any editing tools to speak of. Just the Nikon NX crappy package that is available. And I don’t do much with that except the occasional crops and overall tonal adjustments if needed. I’m almost scared of getting something better because I don’t want to spend my days editing.
  • I guess I follow journalistic rules for the most part. If I alter a photo much, I’ll label it an illustration.
  • As far as the photo challenges go, I hope to participate in a few more than I do now, but I hate committing to more if I can’t be consistent at it.
  • This month I’m going to challenge myself to shoot much more each day.


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Knot today

Some days are just like that. Where that old saying “fit to be tied” gets thrown around. Be it too many lose ends at the job or home. Or projects at a standstill. Or that bill you know you paid but they are claiming is overdue.

Knot City. Photo by Mike Hartley

Is your body or mind fit to be tied? Not eating right. Not sleeping right. Too much stress. Zipping from one thing to another and then zipping back again.

Zippity do da. Photo by Mike Hartley

Are you at the end of your rope. Having trouble hanging on. Does the climb look too great. Is the wind blowing you off course.

Take the Climb. Photo by Mike Hartley

Well, hang on because that is just life. It’s what happens when you’re not having a good day. On the upside, you will have lots of company struggling with you.

I’ve always found it challenging to get out of a bind. To overcome a situation. To make that difficult payment over and over. To get over a loss.

But over time the sheer number of challenges takes its toll, and I find myself not wanting to deal with them as I used to.


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Do you believe

The daily prompt asks if – Do you believe in fate/destiny?

Yes, I do. And at the same time, I believe that we are in control of a lot of things that affect our lives. I have a tee shirt that says – The Harder I Work The Luckier I Am.

I never dreamed of a career in publishing, but fate took me there in the way it started. I never dreamed of a beautiful wife and family, but destiny brought us together one night in a club almost 5 decades ago. So those are why I believe in both.

Only destiny would give you a 6-foot rabbit blowing bubbles on Main Street

Barry the Bubbleman. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Flying Solo

Being a one-man band is both fun and challenging. It is also limiting in ways. Time to work on all the ideas and projects just runs out before they all can be accomplished. And I’ve now accepted that and it actually helps me prioritize better now.

The only limiting factor is how much I’m willing to do. And lately I’m finding I’m doing more. Not just blogging but in all facets of my work.

Skimming the waves of life. Photo by Mike Hartley

In ways we are all flying solo through life. I’ve been thinking about that and feeling it as of late.

Saw an interesting article – If you grew up in 70s, you likely developed these 5 rare traits most people don’t have today. I could relate to a lot of that.


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Threads

Just blowing in the wind this afternoon. I don’t know how many shades of blue it takes to describe a sky, but it seems almost infinite.

Sometimes simple is best. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I’m either finishing the month strong or getting an early start on the next one.
  • The last year has changed the way I look at a lot of things.
  • The best time for creating in my workroom is right before I need a shower.
  • It helps when you know what you’re doing but I’ve never let that stop me.


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Games

I never was a gamer. I remember playing pong and a few other early games but nothing since really. The kids had some when they were young, but I didn’t play much at all.

I enjoyed pinball and foosball when I was younger. But mostly we were outside playing games in our youth. We made games up, we played traditional sports games. We rode bikes a lot before there were special bikes meant for riding trails and doing jumps. We road skateboards that were a flat piece of wood with wheels so thin it required massive skill just to stay on let alone do tricks with.

Store window in Ellicott City. Photo by Mike Hartley

I have nothing against the games except they aren’t done in moderation and mixed with other activities like getting outside and off the floor or couch. I’m glad my children found a good balance, and I think they will teach their children a good balance.

Maybe when I get very old and can’t get off the couch, I’ll take up gaming. Till then, I’ll pass.


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Color

This season is typically lacking the color we find in spring, summer, and fall. But occasionally it appears. It’s almost time to think about the last snow of the season. I see some mixed precipitation on Tuesday and I’m hoping that is it. We have had snow in March, but it isn’t that common and I’m so sick of the cold weather a really warm March would be nice.

Cardinals the other day. Photo by Mike Hartley

The last day of February is upon us. Not my most productive month but I’m somewhat satisfied with the effort. Hopefully I’ll emerge from hibernation soon and resume my nature shooting.

I don’t know what is on the agenda today and I’m afraid to look at the calendar or any of my to-do list. I’d like it to be one of those days where I just go with my flow and let my thoughts guide my actions.

Random Thoughts of the Morning

  • I see our lead IDIOT has now started another war we don’t need to be in.
  • I smile when I think about my grandchildren waking up and their big smiles.
  • It’s going to be an outside day today being it’s been so long since I’ve seen sunny and 63 degrees here.
  • My back hurts looking at the number of sticks and branches down in the yard that need to be picked up.


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Phase out

Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to. – An interesting ask by the daily prompt.

I was going to say it was difficult to say goodbye to the career and in some ways it was. You don’t do something all your life that you like and don’t miss it a bit. I really do miss the teamwork of working on projects together.

The phase of life that I miss the most now is that healthy period. Not that I’m sick now, I just experienced a few setbacks after the age of 50 and now that I’m well into my senior years, I miss that carefree mindset and days when you didn’t think about doing something, you just did it.

Those days have passed. I think a lot more about each step some days depending on the terrane. I used to think eating healthy was eating regularly. I didn’t think about making a move in basketball before. Now I wouldn’t attempt a lot of stuff. I miss the days of springing out of bed. I miss being able to run fast for long periods. I miss my back being able to withstand anything instead of struggling periodically.

The senior years are about being smart, knowing limitations and risks and adapting to your changing body and most importantly staying active despite the challenges.

Teamwork tying the Pride down. Photo by 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.