Every once in awhile I have no idea what to ramble on about. But even when I sit down with nothing, I can’t pass the opportunity to try to create something with words and images. I keep dreaming of saying something or having that image that will resonate with both others and myself.
I’ve started hundreds of posts filled with rants about society or politics that I have to suppress. Or gleeful writing of feelings too wonderful to describe in words that just seem too mushy. These are hidden from you in my drafts which are approaching 300 now.
I have found trying to stay light and positive here helps me on the outside also. This whole process has helped me grow.

Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m torn between posting more because as my friends might say I can ramble on easily and the images I make that inspire me to some train of thought so often just starts the process. On the flip side, am I just going on about life in general, too much of the same thing and I should limit the jabber. Or only post images that are clearly stunning? (that would rule out a lot of my work).
I don’t know if I should just be displaying photos only, which were my original intent when I started blogging but I just went with the flow and started writing.
Actually, I became interested in writing when I partnered up with two great friends and started our own newspaper. I didn’t get much of a chance to even start but the thought of having a voice and communication vehicle to share it with brought a smile to my face.

Photo by Mike Hartley
So I go back and forth each day. Some days I feel like I should write a poem, do a larger post with many more random thoughts that pass through my day. Then, of course, I always feel compelled to share an image or more. I’d like to do progress reports on learning to carve. Let’s see, that’s 4 posts a day? Way too much or is it?
I could go on endlessly about the publishing industry. The characters I’ve met and the changes I’ve seen and experienced and continue to go through today. There are wonderful and painful memories of 4+ decades in newspapers.

Photo by Mike Hartley
Hell, I can write about being a new grandfather endlessly if I had the time. The utter joy I feel has made life more special than I had known before, it has recharged me in the way my own children did when they were born.
Really I just don’t want to waste any opportunity I have to create and share and ramble on. Be it some life experiences and photos of my travels and where I live threw my eyez. But what is the right balance?

Photo by Mike Hartley
Should I do 200, 500 or 1000 words a day? How many images should I share a day? Do I break series up over a week or just do a big gallery? What time of day should I post? You know what, I don’t care much because those things limit me and my creativity. If you feel it you should go with the flow.
Good inspiration doesn’t always come around each day so when it does I’m utilizing it. And if it inspires me a few times a day so be it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I’m back to putting together children’s toys. It’s great.
- Fruit, what a good snack. It’s really good over ice cream. Ops guess that isn’t right.
- I’m here to inspire other writers who read this and say, “I can do a lot better than that.”
- Find your passion or passions. You will be much happier.
- Good writing takes time. I don’t have much to spare so you get what you get.