Was just sitting here looking at some pictures of friend and family on my office walls and thinking that I need to add, update and reorganize them. I really don’t have much room to add. They are at least 60-70% covered now. But it’s my office and I’ll cover it in the things I love.

In some ways, things are fairly normal for me. I normally work from home on Tuesday nights so this is good. And being I was working from home that 90-minute drive on the way in was used to cook some dinner.

So I made a few stuffed burgers. Grilled up some onions and used some Havarti cheese. A few spices on the outside, the hot coals and we were off. They were quite tasty. I hadn’t had a burger off my grill since last year so it was special being the first of the season. By the way, those are half-pounders before the stuffing.

Doing something like that was fun. It seemed normal. And then you walk by the TV and know that we are far from normal. But as I learned a while back, just live each day the best you can and enjoy life.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• One good thing I’m seeing more of on local TV news is the good things people are doing for each other.
• I would love to take a ride this week on some back roads. That is a social distance thing right? I mean I’m alone in the car.
• Felt good to catch a major issue and fix it at the job today. This old man hasn’t lost his touch yet.
• That first week working totally from home proved deadly for my weight. Good thing I got that eating under control and in the second week I’m back down a bit.
• I was trying to photograph this hawk through the woods today but nothing came out well. I’m reminded of a line from Jaws where Brody says “your going to need a bigger boat.” In my case, I need a bigger lens.

Random Links of the Day

Solomon R Guggenheim Museum. I know I’m going to spend some time on this tour. I’ve been itching to go to a museum this year.

Otter Cam from the Calvert Marine Museum in Maryland.

What

What to do with ourselves? What do we do to help those in need? What do we cook tonight? What is the day we can hug again? What is the plan? What day of the week is it? What are the essential services again? What sweatsuit or shorts do I wear today?

What do I tell my children when they ask how long this might go on? What do I read or listen to for factual information? What area can I walk in? What day will my wife kill me? What group do we donate to? What will be the day our bills start to get tight? What day is that stimulus check coming?

What is wanting me to take a drink? What will be the state of all our jobs if this goes on? What does this mean for my upcoming retirement plans? What is really a safe distance from someone else? What good is cheap gas if you can’t go anywhere?

What is important is showing through in life now. Love of family and friends and those doing courageous work.

Listen

Listen to music, turn the TV OFF. Step outside, listen to the birds. Listen to your friends and family. Listen to your heart. Listen to the breeze. Listen to the dawn. Listen to the sound of children’s laughter.

I usually don’t like to knock local businesses but I get an email from a local carpet store with the subject “Covid 19 We’re an Essential Service.” Telling their clients that Construction services are essential services. Well, I guess loosely defined I guess that meets the criteria. I don’t know what emergency constitutes getting carpet/flooring installed in your home.

My friend building out emergency hospital space is essential construction work. Carpet for your home, I think not.

I understand the need for small businesses to survive. And I will support the hell out of the ones that survive. But ones that I’m thinking are doing questionable things during this time, I’m no so sure.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Now those automobile ads with cars going down empty city streets don’t look so odd.
• I miss hugging my children and grandchildren so much.
• Mother Nature is going to provide me with 3 hours of work in cutting the yard starting this week. Way to go MN on filling the time each week.
• Beautiful day outside here in central Maryland.
• Can you imagine this situation without the internet?

It’s the start of the workweek. And yes I’m thankful I have a job where I can work from home. One income out of two is far better than none. Plus mine is the one with the medical insurance. Long term I’m worried about that gap of a few years between now and when we are eligible for Medicare. I hope I can stay employed for that timeframe.

I might be wrong but I think my company will come out of this fine. I think it’s going to be a tough go for everyone and business will certainly change from this but I’m hoping to stay employed.

I feel for those entering the workforce in the next year or two. But with change comes some new opportunities that we haven’t even stumbled upon so far.

The Handshake/Handsqueeze

What to do. I’m sitting here this morning thinking about one of the favorite things my daughter and I have together. From a young age when we would hold hands, we would give each other gentle squeezes from time to time and look at each other with a smile. It was our secret for a long time. We never said anything about it, for it was just our special thing.

As she grew she would great me or say goodbye and grab my hand and squeeze it once or twice and kiss me goodbye.

Even now that she is married and has a daughter our hand squeezing continued when we see each other. We sometimes sign our notes and messages with “Hand Squeeze” at the end. But here we are in a new day and new rules and new realities.

It would probably be simple if everyone washed their hands frequently. Like after coughing or sneezing or before touching food or after using the bathroom but we all know people that don’t do this. The number of common surfaces we all touch is incredible. Doorknobs, elevator buttons, gas pumps, atm machines and on and on. We should really be washing our hands half the day.

As a society losing a handshake or hand squeeze is a tragic thought. I don’t know about you but I’m a handshake man. It’s an unconscious reaction if I see someone I know and like. It’s the standard when I meet someone new. Its a professional business greeting.

I hope we can return to the day of a handshake. I know I’ll be leading the charge is they say its safe. But rest assured, I’ll be washing my hands a lot more in the future.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• My daily appreciation and respect for those medical and front line responders to this crisis. Their bravery and dedication to cause are above and beyond.
• My wishes for everyone to be healthy.
• I felt guilty not doing a post yesterday. I fell asleep early.
• My wishes for peace of mind to those who aren’t able to say goodbye to loved ones.

Random Link of the Day

The “How to Host a Zoom call like a Pro“

I was reading a post from a blog I follow about “The Positive Side of Recent Weeks” and I thought I’d add my personal observations before reading any comments on that post.

• I’m very happy that I get to spend more time with my best friend and better half who are one and the same. We have been through a lot in our lives already so if all we have to do is stay at home, we got this.
• I’m happy and thankful everyone I know is still healthy.
• I’m sleeping better than I have in years. No commute to work has given me a few extra hours each day to spread to different things including rest.
• You start to sort out what is really important in life. Family, friends, health and simple pleasures. Oh yeah, a job and health insurance helps.
• My wife and I have discovered Facetime. The need for it before didn’t exist much because we could see each of our children often. Now its a shot of life into our systems. About to discover Zoom.
• I find myself reading and writing more which is enjoyable.
• I’m still looking at each day as something special and something to make the best of.
• Truthfulness and facts are becoming popular again. Fauci, Fauci, Fauci. And his many professional friends.
• I’m enjoying driving without bumper to bumper traffic the few times I have been out.
• My house and yard are going to look damn good if this goes on for some time.
• Some of the worries I hear in my children’s voices for us is a very wonderful way of them saying how much they love us. We are fine kids.
• I’m hoping for the return of the drive-in movie theater. It gives you the social distancing thing.
• I have time to detail my car which never seems to be available.
• Most people now realize the real heroes in the world are not our sports stars but police fire/EMT and medical professionals.
• In the absence of sports, I’ve discovered cooking shows. But yes I admit to watching a replay of some games recently because I’m sports starved.
• I’m saving money on haircuts. Of course, I’m starting to look like one of the Beatles from the ’60s. So I’m either going to look like Ringo or learn to cut my own hair. Right now Ringo is the winner.
• I’m having time to sort through some of my family’s history.
• I’ve had time to clean out a few inboxes of email. And they really needed it.
• I’m still dreaming of having my toes in the sand and the sound of waves sometime in the future.
• A lot more people are waving and yelling hello than in the past.
• I have a few more minutes to listen to some music in my home.
• I have time for a long list like this.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• It felt great to detail my car today. My back said it would feel better if someone else did it. Yes, I did the SUV in addition to my little sports car.
• I like having a few minutes to talk to neighbors. Of course at a good distance.
• The song “In the air tonight” still makes my hair stand on end.
• Selflessness – Retired medical professionals returning to work.
• I find myself moved to tears more lately.
• The advertising industry really turned on a dime with new commercials on how they are changing things like car buying and many others.
• Remember when you used to worry about what the weather was going to be like?

Sorry to ramble on so much. I’ll get some fresh images tomorrow.

I found a draft I had started in August of 2015 the other day with the title “Uncertainty and other thoughts.” The uncertainty almost 5 years ago was the day or two before my doctor’s appointment to see if the surgery for my second cancer was successful. In the preceding weeks that uncertainty invaded almost every moment of life. Even if I was doing or thinking about something else I noticed my overall mode was reserved because of the uncertainty of the future. Even when I laughed it was shorter because that uncertainty would creep into my thoughts.

I never finished that draft, because the results of that appointment weren’t good. I had to do 3 months of radiation Mon-Fri every morning after working an all-night shift. I would drive from DC where I worked to Baltimore for treatments at 8 am. I was proud I didn’t miss any work over that time.

Those bad results in August followed by another bad set the next month changed my attitude a bit also. I was going into an area of greater uncertainty and if I allowed myself to get ramped up even more than I was after the surgery hoping things were going to be good I would have driven myself nuts.

I just kind of accepted and hoped for the best during that time and after. And that is what I do now. Not to say I’m out of touch with the reality of things but the reality is we have very little control. We have live each day the best. Spend each day expressing love and laughter. Practice compassion. Focus on the things that aren’t measured in monetary wealth.

We took a short ride around the county today. I hadn’t been out in over a week. And that was just to drop off prescription and food at father and mother inlaws. We were looking for someplace to get out and soak up a few minutes of the sun while walking. There were a lot of people out in the various areas we cruised to, so I thought of one that was near where I grew up that was normally quiet. So I drove down to Scotts Cove in Rocky George. I was surprised to see some people out but we managed to keep a great distance from anyone and only stayed out about 30-40 minutes.

Photos by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Today would have been Opening Day in Baseball. So I put on my Yankee shirt to mark the day.
• I miss the Thursday night gathering with friends very much.
• I love being couped up with someone I love.
• I can hear the stress in a great number of people’s voices.
• I’m starting to discover what a good night’s sleep feels like.

Random Links of the Day

Yeah, the Aquarium in Baltimore is closed but you can still catch a few live views online – Reef Sharks – Jellies – Coral reef

I heard this morning that it was Maryland Day. And being its the state I love the most I thought I’d sing a few of its praises. I was born here and have lived here my 60+ years. I love it. To me its a little bit of every part of our country.

We have the shore and the mountains. We have great bodies of water. We have a history in abundance. There are great cultures and food. Our state flag may be the best of all the states. The people, there are some really great ones here. Many heroes below the radar. And many common people who step up.

It has a lot of the best educators and institutions. It is probably one of the most seasonally balanced places to live where each season is well represented. (Well this past winter was the exception). As far as huge weather events we seem to be in a sweet spot for avoiding the most tragic weather that afflicts so many parts of the country.

It’s been a great state to raise a family. Full of resources and good communities. Sports are a big part of life. Some of the best hospitals in the world are here. The roads when not full of traffic are wonderful ribbons of asphalt.

You have both big city life and country life available. The Nations Capital is a stones throw away. We have accents. We have Old Bay seasoning and steamed crabs. There is Black Eyed Susan’s and

We have a wonderful selection of sports teams and great recreational facilities. I could go on and on for weeks on end about towns and people and the natural resources but suffice to say, I love it.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• If you think TV is tough to watch now. Wait another week or two.
• It felt good to make a donation today.
• If we could listen to professionals instead of politicians we would be in better shape.
• Almost time to store the space heater away in my office.
• This virus has made me think about retiring sooner than I had planned on. But the reality is I’m probably going to have to work longer. Such is life. As long as I have my health.

I feel like I’m about to look like one of the Beatles pictures from the late 1960s in another few weeks. Been a long time since I let my hair grow. Of course, this isn’t intentional but I believe my barbershop is closed as most everything is and I probably wouldn’t go anyway.

So away the hair will grow. Or maybe I’ll watch a youtube video of how to become my own barber.

I can hardly believe the lack of leadership at many levels. I can hardly believe the lack of common sense in people. But it is what it is as my old Marine boss would say. So we will continue to do our part and stay at home.

I am encouraged about the company that I work for, their communication and leadership and what appears to be good sound judgment so far. And yes I’ll be working from home a while longer.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• The sun came out this afternoon and it felt great on the skin.
• Instead of worrying about if there will be enough ventilators if you get sick, worry about remembering to do the steps to keep from getting sick.
• If you think I’m taking medical advice from PT your out of your Vulcan Mind.
• I told myself I wouldn’t do it but I do find watching some replays of old championships cool to watch.

Random Links of the Day

OK, it’s here in a few minutes. American Red Cross Day of Giving. Help out or give blood.

Yes, it was that kind of day outside. That is why I didn’t even touch the doorknob to go outside. I didn’t even feel like going outside to do a new rain photo. So I’m using this late summer shot of my neighbors garden in a drenching storm. Those sunflowers are a good 10-15 foot high.

Last week it was panic buying of supplies from grocery stores. This week it’s a run on medicines. I see signs of panic all around. Who knows, maybe they are the insightful ones. I don’t think so but I could be wrong.

I had a lazy day, I earned it. Not really, got sucked into current events and some worry/concern. I also talked to a good friend today. It reminded me there are many normal people still working in industries supporting this emergency that you wouldn’t think of. How about the construction workers who are now coming up with these emergency facilities our doing emergency build-outs of existing ones. It’s happening in big cities and it could be happening around the country. I hope not. I hope we have a handle on it. I look for good news each day. But just realize lots of people are taking risk of helping others in not so recognized ways.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• The chance of being a human guinea pig just went way up.
• A positive of these changes is I’m getting some good rest most days.
• This is a good reminder that there are all types of people in society with all types of attitudes and beliefs. So getting everyone on the same page, good luck.

Random Link of the Day

Carry out places in Howard County – I believe they are asking for support this Take-Out TUESDAY.

Wash the hands. I’m beginning to wonder if that is like the duck under your desk in the ’60s. Yeah, I know, anything to help prevent the spread so wash your hands often. Me, I’m staying home.

So I thought I’d wash my car this morning and kill two birds with one sponge. You know, trying to keep some sense of normalcy. It felt good like it always does. A clean ride always makes me feel good. So it’s all ready for later this week. I believe I saw Thursday is the next nice day outside without rain. I’ll be looking forward to that ride the next few days.

Before I washed the car I saw the first trace of the yellow pollen that turns my red car orange every other day for the next month or two. Which reminds me I should get my tractor running soon. Mulch will be coming and grass will be growing. And there is that large pile of branches that needs to move to the lower backwoods.

Some things seem so normal still. But there is that uncertainty all around us even when you don’t have the news on. It’s great talking to people. Everyone letting each other know were good.

We all should be keeping in mind the people still keeping the country running. Deliveries of essential service. Security of our nation. And many others that still go on each day. That cause those individuals to be out and about in the midst of this doing their jobs. As a matter of fact, I’m going to write one tonight to see if they need me to get anything for them.

Also remember not to overtax the hospitals if you can.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• We are all going to get a good education of what our health care system really looks like now.
• I’m discovering Facetime and I like it. Nowhere near as good as a hug from your children but really nice considering we aren’t seeing each other.
• A lot more people appreciate each day now.
• Today the purge has started. Relax, I’m talking about junk in my basement.

Today’s Link I thought might be of Interest

How much Toilet paper supply do you have. This calculator can help.

Friday was a special birthday. Our first child was born this first day of spring. I was telling her last night that I have the images of my first sight of her in my mind today. Also that I miss her greatly because we have chosen to celebrate at a later date. It breaks my heart to do that but it’s also a wise move. I was reading that story of the family that has lost 4 members within days from a family gathering.

I couldn’t live with myself if I had passed something onto a family member. Nor should they have the guilt if it was passed to us. The trouble is it’s not like it’s going to be a short term delay. I suspect several weeks if we are lucky, to several months if not. And that hurts because that not only means missing birthdays and anniversaries but random dinners, cookouts, and gatherings in between the big events. I’m getting too old to miss anything but I also need to be smart.

My better half and I used Facetime to call her. You could probably count on one hand and maybe have a few fingers left with the number of times I’ve used that. But I can imagine a much greater use will be in order in the coming days. It was a lot of fun and it made missing her a bit easier.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• If you think it’s tough staying home think of how tough it’s going to be on your pets when you return to work.
• Find the balance between keeping up on very important news and not watching too much and getting stressed.
• I wonder if driving with the top down increases my risk of catching something? Not like I’m leaving the house much anyway.
• I wonder if my back will hold up to the work I did on the deck today?

Today’s links I thought might be of interest:

If you thought about what can you do to support the health care works this article from Today has some great steps for each of us.

100 things for kids to do at home during school closures.

Bloom Cam for the Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC – better to watch from a distance this year.

Not often you see Bourbon Street on a Friday night at 10pm empty.

Lots of people are stepping up big time. But the need appears to be great. Creative thinking and willing people like distillers creating hand sanitizer now. People calling neighbors or bringing the elderly whatever they need. Children calling parents to make sure they are well and limiting contacts.

But more can be done. It’s an adjustment. I’ve seen people in denial, some frozen in fear. Also anger or depression. Certainly, all of us have confusion over it all because of the rapid change of information. Some of that is normal in these times and some isn’t.

So how can each of us step up to help our fellow man/woman? I see the Gobinator (Governor) of Maryland has a new website called Maryland Unites. This is full of good links to help.

Also, think of your local community. I thought to myself where do I like to eat that doesn’t have a big carry out business. So we went to Shannon’s in Village Green and got a great carry out meal and left them a nice tip. The service segment of the workforce seems to always take the first hit.

I know, spending money on eating out isn’t the smartest move right now. But I’m trying to keep some semblance of normalcy. One thing that will be far from normal though is tomorrow. Well, any day is far from normal now but its the first one to hit my heart.

Tomorrow is a very special day and I can’t do the normal celebration that we do because we are supposed to limit out contact with people. And the last thing I would want to do is get someone close to me that I love and cherish ill. But it rips my heart out not being able to gather as we normally do to celebrate. I think I’ll write a note about how special this coming day is and how special they are to me.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• The more time you think you have the less you get done.
• There will be problems if a rooster wakes me up tomorrow.
• Trying to decide if sleep or desire to create will win out this evening.
• There is a lot less sweating of the small stuff nowadays.
• Think I’ll make a donation to the Red Cross when I’ve finished this post.

Only another 24 hours till Spring is upon us. A much different spring than any of us have experienced.

The beauty of spring will still be with us. But so will be a season of doubt. And that doubt isn’t from the media its from Doctors and Scientist. It’s from people working in those fields that know about things like viruses.

Who’s going to remain healthy and who isn’t. That thought will be with most of us for some time. Of course, there are those that believe this is just useless panic and overreaction and they feel the rest of us are just a bunch of dumbasses. I hope they are right. I hope this thing is gone in a week or two and not one more person dies from it. But I doubt their logic and science.

And while I’d love to enjoy the beauty of the Cherry Blossoms in DC this coming week, I think I’ll pass this year and appreciate some local beauty that doesn’t have to be shared with crowds. I’ll get out tomorrow and see what our county has to offer.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Pick a dine-in only restaurant you like and order carryout from them. And then leave a big tip if they will put it towards the wait staff.
• Call some elderly people in your life and share a laugh.
• I know its tempting to go back to normal. Don’t do it yet.
• I’m looking forward to having the time to read a book in the next month. I’m a slow reader.

Well, I wasn’t actually cooking with juice. But I was cooking today. If supplies last I hope to be cooking a lot more. I was eating out too much anyway. Not that enjoying a good restaurant isn’t a wise move, it’s just a little difficult to pull off now.

It felt good getting the grill fired up again. I put some spicy Italian sausages on the grate and slow-cooked them. Brought them back up and put them in with the onions and peppers. What a savory dinner.

Trying to get a balance between keeping up and being prepared for the future and at the same time trying to enjoy each day. I spoke to my best friends today and I think we are going to get together. A group of 3 should be safe and everyone is healthy so far. I’ve been isolated for a week so I’m fairly low risk.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I wished I stayed in bed a bit longer today.
• This changes everything.
• A toast to everyone’s good health.
• I can’t wait to feel the temps in the ’80s again on Friday.
• I love driving but I don’t miss the drive to and from work at all.
• I don’t feel the need to tell people that I love them more because I already do it really well each day.

Of course, you can have a good day. If you’re lucky, you can still find positive things in a day. For instance, I don’t look at this hibernation as a bad thing now. I’m trying to find things that I haven’t had a chance to get to at home. I hope to read a book. I hope to do some carvings. Maybe work on my studio photography. Take a walk with my better half. Work in the yard and on the home.

But I also understand there are many that like me live paycheck to paycheck. I’m fortunate that I can work from home so far. Who knows what companies and government agencies will be forced to do in the coming weeks and months though. So uncertainty is our new bedfellow. Will the stores continue to have enough food for all of us. Will they even be open. Which one of the people you pass is sick? You can see it in people’s faces now.

I already know a few people in huge financial trouble. Many more will be joining them. Hell, I might fall into that someday myself. I just hope we can overcome this new bug and work hard to restore all the wonderful things we were taking for granted. It’s just going to take time and I know we have some impatient people.

But as I’ve learned over the last decade. When each day you have a health issue hanging over your head, just make the best of each day. Find something to enjoy and smile about. Find something to love. Find someone who inspires you. Find many things to laugh about. Find it within yourself to help someone else.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I don’t even want to look at my 401k.
• The phrase too little too late leaps to mind recently.
• I made some prints of my granddaughter today to make me feel good and my daughter when I give them to her.
• Spend as much time as you can to make the elderly feel secure and relaxed.
• Governor Hogan impresses me more and more each day.

I was just thinking about my next visit to my father and mother in law and how that will be done through a window. Arlington National Cemetery is closed so I can’t visit my own parents.

Yeah I’m saving on gas but no social interaction at the job. I love having the extra time with my better half though. She’s my favorite social interaction.

I have an excuse for not going to the mall.

3 places you will find sports junkies. On the ledge outside the window, cowering in the corner or watching 10 year old replays like they are live.

I have an excuse for not going to church. And at the same time another reason to go.

I wonder what the least crowded time is to go food shopping?

If you have a lot of interest in life, the emotional strain of becoming a homebody is easier.

Oh no, I see that Casinos and racetracks and betting facilities have been closed in the state. We already have the sports junkies in a state of detox and now we are adding gamblers to the mix. If they close the liquor stores, all hell is going to break loose.

Yet life goes on so normally. A coworker passed away from an apparent heart attack. He was only in his mid 40’s. A best friend had his second grandchild. Life and death march on.

Working in the yard still feels the same. My back hurts after raking. And this morning my thighs hurt from bending over picking up the leaves.

Even though I’m working from home this week I’m tempted to go for a drive in the morning to see how much traffic differs from the norm. I will need to get out because I haven’t ventured outside my neighborhood since last Wednesday morning. And yes I’m going to avoid human contact.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Seared scallops are an easy dish.
• I’m might scratch my cooking itch this week.
• I found a box of my father’s history. It’s a big box. I think my Mom kept almost every clipping of his service. I also found a few old magazines. An issue of Time from 1944 and Newsweek from 1948.

Looks like going forward, changing some of my habits might be a wise move. Like touching my face. This may take me many years to overcome. I’ve always had a beard and mustache and I believe I touch them a fair amount. If nothing less than to pick food from the beard and maybe blue cheese sauce from the wings I’m wolfing down.

My nose itches several thousand times a day and I’m not supposed to touch it. I mean I touch my nose by accident every time I put my arms out. I’ve always had a nervous habit of messing with chapped lips. Another reason I hate winter. Oh and the eyes. Let’s see, I wear glasses and I’m taking those on and off or switching from reading to my normal specs. Not to mention the times I spend rubbing my eyes because of them being ingrained in computer screens for many hours a day.

And not to be ignored are the ears. While not on the hit parade very often they do get a tug or rub once in a while.

So now I have to make a conscious effort to avoid touching my face. That is going to take a lot of conscious thought cycles out of my processing capabilities. Not that the CPU running this is that bold anyway. Well, I might as well get started. Maybe I’ll make a game of it with my better half. And maybe even the kids. Like if they catch me it cost me.

You know, yesterday was the first day I felt very strange. I leaned over to kiss my daughter as she was leaving and as she was closing the door as I backed away and I wondered if it was OK to do that. It was the worst feeling to think that I had to think about giving my family a hug or kiss or hand squeeze. It almost makes me sick to think that I am going to have to change my interactions at all with anyone. It gave me such a pause it’s still with me 18 hours later. But its a new world today and I’m not even sure I can or want to change the unconscious thought I have of hugging my child when I see them because I love them. But because I love them I have to think first.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Practicing common sense is a good thing in normal times and in times of crisis.
• I wonder if people are drinking more or less now?
• Remember, it’s love that will get us through many tough times.
• Call or write someone older to help them take their mind off the news.
• I’m going to utilize some of my newfound time (hours less a week in a car commuting) to cook a little more. Being there aren’t any sports on the telly, I might find myself watching more food shows.
• I just thought of a horrible consequence of this virus. Think of how many charity events that will be impacted. Let’s all continue to give as much as we can in the absence of these fundraising events.

One of the premier events canceled. Yep, March Madness is off for 2020. I had my Maryland Basketball shirts all in order, separated by color and long and short sleeve. Some people obsess about suits. I have my Terps gear.

It has completely brought an end to one of the years highlights for my friends and I. You see we have this vigil every year where we watch the Opening Thursday and Friday games from start to finish. Yep, we are in our seats by 11 am and finish up a bit after midnight. Multiple screens and flipping around for the best games on the big screen. And we usually watch every weekend till the finals on Monday night. We take time from our jobs to gather together EVERY YEAR.

Of course, we do it up right. We go to Wegmans the morning before our first day and spend hundreds of dollars on food. We feast, all day and all night for two days. We laugh and chest bump and high five and fist bump and hug and yell and go OOHHHHHHH and lose our minds at the most impressive plays. Some even hit the floor. It’s total madness and fun.

It’s one of the great times of the year for my friends and me. Especially when our home team is doing well and advancing to the next round. And this year we were hoping for a chance at the final weekend of glory. As were the other 60 plus teams.

Think of how boring the rest of the month is going to be. No office pools to watch. I can’t imagine what this does to bookies and Vegas. The betting people must be losing their collective minds with all sports shut down.

I mean what is going to be the purpose of doing a sports report for the next month on the news.

All I know is that this one change in life has significantly taken much enjoyment from the country already for the next 30 days. And its thrown me into March Sadness. Also because I’ll have no excuse to avoid the yardwork the next 3 weekends in a row.

I guess I’ll go move my Lefty tie to the back and store my favorite white Terps hat to a covered position. It’s not going to be the same excitement when I walk out to the driveway with the basketball this spring. It’s not going to be the same without the competition with my Son on who is going to win the bracket pool and discussion of every minute of the Maryland game. And I really enjoy that a lot because we both enjoy college basketball so much.

I guess I’ll have to rely on the few memories of the games we attended this year together. I’ll have to hope that the pro’s come back and finish their season late. But even that will be diminished because the teams won’t be in sync like they were. It’s almost like it’s going to be a different season if they do resume at all.

I’m sure the pick-up games won’t be as well attended and of course, leagues are going to postpone games would be my belief. I just thought about what these little league commissioners much be going through. Do we get kids and parents together for a game?

We are in a new territory but its just another day again. So its time to find the joy of something new to fill the void. Today I’m going to enjoy my grandchild. Maybe go for a walk this afternoon when it clears up. Maybe I’ll talk to both of my children and tell them I love them. Maybe I’ll hold my better half tight and tell her I love her also.

See, there is always enough to do. But at 9 pm tonight when the Terps were scheduled to tip off in the Big 10 Tournament I’ll pause and think of the kids and coaches who worked for a year for this point. I’ll wish them peace of mind and heart. I have a huge hole in my heart for the loss of my favorite sporting event of the year. Till next year NCAA March Madness.

The sun was out for a bit. The flowers are starting to bloom. My seasonal cough is back. The church guy called selling annual mulch and I ordered 20 bags. I went out to get the mail and bring in the trash can. I took several deep breaths of the mid-50-degree air and smiled. I waved to a neighbor returning home from where ever.

But my first few hours were consumed by the news of the day. Most all sports, concerts and other entertainment have come to a halt. Markets are failing badly. Travel and businesses shutting down. We are entering almost a Full Stop. And now I hear schools in our state are closed for a few weeks.

Then a note from work saying to stay on a remote basis and not come to the office which I appreciate because I keep reading about the high-risk issues and I fall into a few of those. And being my cough started up I might have to cancel my doctor’s appointment on Monday.

It’s going to be interesting to see how long and how severe the changes we are entering into will impact life. I think it’s still important to appreciate the good things each day. Do you have your health? If yes you got about all you need. Do your friends and family have their health? If yes you are 95% complete.

It’s interesting to watch leadership in various parts of life step forward or fail to respond or communicate well. For instance, my job has been extremely proactive and ahead of the curve in communications, responses, and actions. I feel the Governor of the state of Maryland has been an excellent communicator.

There are others I’m very disappointed in but to avoid the inevitable hate if I get into that I’ll just leave it at that.

It’s time to keep calm, but also stay well informed and don’t take the risk. Limit your exposure whenever possible. Be safe, be well.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Funny how some things level the playing field.
• Yesterday if I said what was an unhealthy restaurant to go to, you would have thought about the food they were serving. If I asked you that question today you might have thought about how clean it is.
• Tell someone you love everything is going to be ok.
• I live for March Madness so this has been a tough day. But they made the right call.
• I’m making like a bear and hibernating.

Think about what is not only good for you but for the people next to you. That is what we are starting to see happen. And its a good thing but it’s going to be a painful thing for many. I hope I wrong about how selfish people can be. I hope I’m inspired by the ability of us to work together. I hope we can help each other and not revert to hostilities.

I’m going to get real comfortable at home for a while I believe. See how this plays out. So maybe instead of walking around towns photographing maybe, I’ll head to the woods. Or maybe get the studio set up. Yeah, that’s the ticket.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Times like these make you think about times like these.
• It’s good for people to think seriously about what they do and where they go each day.
• I’m going to call my father and mother inlaw instead of visiting.
• Get familiar with the words “full stop”.
• When you don’t know, Don’t.
• Oh yeah, enjoy today and tomorrow.

Today was the day I heard the Boom. Yeah, the disruption of normal life is under way in a serious way. Adjustments at the job that pays the bills. My better half’s work in the health industry is in high gear. I picked up a friend today who works overnight at a major food chain and he says the panic buying is under way.

Just the people on the road with their minds elsewhere. Schools, festivals, political rallies and other events cancelled or postponed. The simple way we great each other changing by the day. Further changes are coming. Who know what this will do to our economy but that is the least of my worries now.

So what will I be doing. I’m not panicking, but I’m keeping a very watchful eye and will try to do that social distancing to the best of my ability. At least for a short period till this is under wraps. For someone reminded me that I’m old today. Someone my own age. And with some breathing issues due to seasonal changes and having had the big C twice I’m not as strong as my youthful counterparts.

I’m just going to try to live normally but think about what I can do to limit catching it and act on it. The next few weeks will tell how much trouble we are in I believe.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Cheap gas is nice but it you can’t go anywhere whats the point?
• I worry about my better half working in a health care facility.
• I bet people have a new appreciation for cleaning crews.
• I’m excited about hump day.

I had just a few minutes but took advantage of them and went down to Ellicott City and took a 10 minute walk. What a beautiful day outside and it seems everyone was trying to take advantage of it. Rightfully so in my opinion.

I can’t wait till this weather is more commonplace again instead of the exception. Hopefully I won’t need to wait long.

I took the old camera out and grabbed a few frames. But then it was back to the days errands and work. Life is just too short with a full time job.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• My workplace is the cleanest its ever been. I believe if I sat still for more than 5 minutes I might be cleaned with a Clorox wipe.
• Trying to sleep during the day is difficult at best.
• Strange that we are more concerned with the economy than public health.
• Rode to work today with the top down for the first time this year.
• I haven’t been told to wash my hands so much since I was 5 years old.

Just didn’t have the mojo working today. I’ll try to find it this evening so I can get a good start on Monday. Might not be the easiest thing with the work week well under way already but I’ll give it the old college go at it.

Days like today make me look at life and my energy levels. So just like one might chose their words carefully, I’ve got to start managing my energy a little more carefully. And no better time to start than now.

So my first step is to get better rest. That should increase my energy levels which most of the week are beyond low due to the poor sleep habits I have. So my first order of business is to get more sack time. I hope to do that by reducing my work commute time and spending less time watching TV.

So we start in earnest this week. A new plan, A new effort. Maybe a new result.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Lots of people walking around in gowns and mask cleaning our offices tonight. Kind of makes me wonder.
• A Monday in the 70’s and sunshine. I may have to reshape my opinion of Mondays.
• I used to countdown the hours till the workweek is over. Now I just worry about each day instead. Lots more victories than just one a week.

There are some family days that really work out nicely. Today was one of those. A celebration and 4 generations of the family represented. So many smiles and laughs shared. Affection and appreciation were given and felt. Pride and love overflowing in me tonight.

I still see some taking it for granted. Not savoring the moment. Not utilizing the time and presence of others. Sometimes it’s difficult in larger gatherings. For instance, I wish I had talked more with several people today, but I was also doing some shooting.

Anyway, I’m spent. Rumor is in a few hours we’re going to lose an hour of sleep. Ain’t that some stuff.

That project I was speaking about the last week or so was a photo album of my granddaughters first year of life. It was fun putting together. It gave me and the printer a workout. Almost 300 images. It was a pure joy doing it though and I hope to help document every year of every grandchild I ever have.

To be close and able to help my children and their children, I’m one lucky man.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I’m so tired it’s hard to recall some random thoughts I’ve had today.
• Ah, here is one. Young children get surprisingly fast, surprisingly fast.
• Down to a few hours before the workweek starts again. It’s getting a bit easier knowing they aren’t unlimited anymore.
• I’ve gotten away from exercising again. I should go for a long walk tomorrow morning. And take that cinderblock of a camera with me for a workout.

The season is over, but Mother Nature gave it one last try today. A quick snow squall late this afternoon. And here I put the snow shovels at the back slider door to be put in the shed for the coming spring and summer seasons. One of my best friends was mad that he hadn’t been able to use his snowblower this season and was thinking about running it a few minutes, draining the gas and storing it.

I can’t say I’m sorry about this lack of snow this season. I’m sure Mother Nature will make up for it. She always seeks balance. Sometimes just using extremes though.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I’ll be honest. I left no time for this blog today and it shows. But I did complete another project on time and it’s looking good. That was the priority in my life today. So you have my apologies for this few minute’s efforts.
• I wish someone had told me earlier in life not to touch my face much. At this age having to think about that completely disrupts the flow of my day.
• OK, avoiding people and crowds, hum, that has some positive aspects.
• Really though, be careful, this virus has the potential to take off it seems.

Sometimes my work takes me into strange hours of the day. On the way home from work this morning the sunrise over the Howard County Conservancy was one I just had to stop and admire for a moment. So I pulled into the Snowball Stand parking lot and even got out of the car and caught this. I had breakfast from DD for my better half and daughter so I only had time to snap 2-3 frames.

I love sunrises no matter where they fall in my day. It always signifies a new start. And being today is the start of my weekend, it was a great way to start the day and hit the sack for a few hours rest with a nice image in my head.

So it’s time to get peddling. There is much to be done. I was wishing it would be a little warmer out but then again I really don’t have time to fire up the yard work this weekend.

You know when your children do special things to help people, animals or our environment, it gives me the most special feeling. It kind of inspires me to do more myself.

It also gives me hope for the future. It means they have their heads on straight. As a father, I couldn’t be prouder for this and the many wonderful things they are.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• The day is a victory. I made a child smile and laugh.
• Have a conversation with a neighbor. Yeah, pretend its the old days.
• OK, I haven’t broken down and tried Coke Energy but the countdown has begun. I’m afraid I might like it.
• The scale is my friend again. We were on the outs for a few days there.
• Tomorrow is Employee appreciation day. It figures I’d be off.

Lots of things get exposed in emergency situations. A pandemic is something were not prepared for ourselves and the supporting industries for these events aren’t prepared.

First we are a selfish people. We will not do what is needed for the safety of each other. That is proven out every day on our highways. Second our medical profession doesn’t have the number of people or resources to handle large scale events. I seriously hope this isn’t as serious as it appears now but I don’t have that sense right now.

I could go on ringing the panic bell but we will see what the future brings soon enough. So onto enjoying this fine day. The last few minutes is about all the time I’ve had to savor the day. More doctors appointments and work with a few hours sleep squeezed in filled that rest of the hours.

In another 6 hours I’ll be free from the job that pays the bills and into a great weekend. It’s a packed one and filled with great times ahead. I can’t wait to raise my camera to my eyes.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Sometimes when you work someplace for a very long time the building becomes a home. I guess that is why it gets emotional when they are torn down.
• I have not tried the new Coke Energy but I hear it calling my name.
• I hate seeing nice people taken advantage of. And it hardens me against those who do.
• I’m getting an early start on taking my filter off even though I’m not an old man yet.

What a difference a day makes when you not feeling the best and then back to normal the next day. So despite the rain this evening I’m riding the wave. And it’s going to take me through the weekend. I made some more progress on my most recent project and feeling good about the coming weekend.

Once I’m past a very busy Wednesday this week will be great. I thought next week was going to be a good one but a last minute schedule change from the job that pays the bills has thrown a wrench into that. No problem though, I can be good at last minute schedule changes also.

And this and more has made me think today about how I deal with some people. Basically as I’ve grown older I’ve been more selective about my time and the people I spend it with. And this means for some I will no longer have time for them. Especially those who don’t value it and really just waste it.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• It’s always Super Tuesday or Fat Tuesday. Then again at the end of the day Tuesdays Gone as Lynyrd Skynyrd says.
• I’m losing confidence in society.
• What some can get away with always amazes me.
• Elitist can kiss my behind.
• I’m less worried about the politics of health than the actual health information.

I have nothing left. Between a full day plus of work and medical test I’m spent. The tank is dry. Mentally I’d like to do something but after medical stuff I’m a shell of myself.

I was starting to feel guilty about doing nothing and remembered not to do that to myself. I’ve accomplished a lot today. Tomorrow will be another opportunity to do better. Although its Super Tuesday and working in the news business that means a busy day.

So Tuesday I’ll try to get baking again. Never let a day go by without learning something.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I’m no fan of barium sulfate.
• I am a Terps fan and I hope they regain their winning ways tomorrow.
• The priorities of the rich don’t really apply to me. In other words, I’m through working hard making others wealthy.
• Tuesday is a rest, catch up day.

Each day we start with a blank canvas that is ready to be filled. Each day of life can create wonderful works of art if your up to it. Yes it is very easy to grab a can of black paint and just fill the frame with it. That negative mindset is a one trick pony. Maybe easy to ride and tough to get off of for some but you can make a day of it I guess.

I like to experience a range of emotions. Because no matter how positive and upbeat about my outlook, I know life has some dark colors that you can’t ignore. So I’m prepared with a full palette to work with.

This weekend I’ve been very productive painting what I hope is a great picture. It’s a great feeling to be in a creative mode and have some time to invest in it.

I’m really excited about March for a few reasons. Obviously its March Madness which fills my nights with basketball. It’s the month the weather starts to turn to my liking so I can come out of hibernation.

I’m excited because there are a couple of very important birthdays to celebrate. I’m excited because it might be warm enough to put the top down on the car. I’m excited because the work schedule won’t be as demanding as this past month.

I’m excited because I hope to catch up with some old friends I haven’t seen in a while. I’m excited to take some new images. I’m excited because the grill will be fired up this month.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Once I’m past Monday, the rest of the week is cake.
• Daily walks start today.
• The more I do the better I feel.
• I wonder if the mower battery will take another charge this year. Usually I pull it, store it inside and trickle charge it. I was lazy so its still in the mower this spring.