It was a fine start to the day, with a visit with my Daughter and her husband. I tell you there is nothing like family. Keeps you strong and always there to help. I’m very blessed in that regard. And a great day it was, even with yard work and chores, it was beautiful out and I was feeling strong. And I’m thankful for every day I have my strength. Not just physically but mentally. I have to figure a way to stay strong in both and help others at the same time. It’s good to have goals.

That sun was out with a passion today wasn’t it. I know my skin got some because I feel a bit tight in the shoulders. Guess I could tell everyone I got it at the beach instead of working in the yard. Sounds much better doesn’t it?

Got out with the chainsaw today and hauled some debris away. Thanks to both my Son in-law for his assistance and to my better half of course who always helps. I’ve got several more trees to do before this winter rolls around.

And I’m trying to give our beautiful Oak trees in front just a bit more time but it appears they might be on the downside. They are beautiful and I love them. Of course the acorns they drop this time of year sounds like someone is shooting at the house with an endless supply of ammo. Those nuts really echo when hitting my new roof.

So being I was busy with chores I had to go back into the archive for a few shots to throw into this post.

Seems like yesterday we were out in the Moonshooter (name of my friends boat) going under this bridge. Time sure does go by fast. We spent many days on the water in our youth but not so much anymore.

I kind of miss those days. The parties on the dock and beach house. The night rides on the water. Watching friends water ski all day, only taking a break to reload the boat with beer.

Simple times with simple joys. Well maybe not the jelly fish but they come with the territory. All I know is those days have long gone. None of us own a boat anymore. The only time we do get on one is when its chartered and we only do that twice a year max.

But those wild times and memories persist. Many good friends from those days are still kicking it together today but with not as much abandon as we once did.

So as a new week starts, well it has for me because I work holidays and weekends and other weird scheduled times, I suggest we keep a bit of our youth in each days step. Take a shot at something beyond your present reach. Take a step in another direction for a change. Try a dish you haven’t eaten before. Take in a new movie. Tell your better half you love her in a new way. Just take a shot at living each day better.

I know you can do it. I just don’t know if I can take my own advice. But I’m starting to see things differently now so maybe this old man can change. Well not old but getting there.

So just hold on till tomorrow. I promise I’ll get out and shoot some new images to share with you. And thank you for your patience. For if you’re a homeowner, a bit of yard work can interrupt a holiday weekend without any problem at all and consume most of it.

The homeless problem has really been bothering me lately. We treat people like garbage and its wrong. I’ve got to focus on what I can do beside dropping the homeless I run into a few dollars from time to time.

I think it’s imperative that we all help those less fortunate than ourselves. So lets see if I can do something like that. Maybe take a moment to talk to them. Maybe offer some food instead off just cash. Maybe make a donation to a shelter. Who knows, I need to do something though.

But I’m lazy so it will probably just be a few bucks to whomever is by the 7-11 by Vermont and L street this morning.