They are tempting, but no. All the free images out there to choose from and I refuse to use them. Certainly, some and most might be better, but that would take away my inspiration to shoot and write. I don’t even look for inspiration, I like that to come from within.
Another tempting but no is returning to the pace of life before the pandemic. Yeah, it was productive, not always for the right things though.
Always tempting but no, is dealing with pain by taking painkillers constantly. Not that I don’t take one from time to time but I keep it to a minimum.
And as I approach Sunday night which is the beginning of the work week it’s tempting but no, I won’t use a sick day despite having a lot in the hopper.
Of course the daily tempting but no, thought of calling my children. I learned long ago that everyone needs space. But I do love them so and could talk every day.
As I walk back from the fridge I was wishing I could say to myself, tempting but no, when I get thirsty and go grab another Coke.
As I was driving home I saw a nice Vette and wondered, tempting but no.
I’d love another pet. My wife wouldn’t. I’d like to just bring one home, tempting but no.
I could go on, tempting but no.

I just record her work. Photo by Mike Hartley
Sometimes people say things and with no ill intentions at all, kind of infer something difficult in life experiences and don’t realize or reflect that is an exact situation that you yourself experienced or have had to deal with. I’ve had two such experiences recently.
If the body will cooperate, I hope to get out early tomorrow and grab some fresh frames. Maybe even some night shots if I get out there early enough. I do have the tripod by the front door.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- The cicadas are louder than sitting over a 13HP motor cutting grass.
- Some days I feel my age. I prefer the days I feel 30.
- If you take good mechanical care of things they take care of you.
- Weekends go by so quickly. Only a few years from the never-ending weekend for this kid.