THREW Mikes EyEz

Original Writings, Images, Video and Artworks of Mike Hartley

Choice

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Ah, the last day of the year and I sit and think, what to blog about today? Do I go over what I’m thankful for, which is a very long list? Do I go over my personal, home, hobby, and travel goals for 2022 and spoil a few new ideas that I want to spring on my better half later today?

Nope, I think I’ll focus on today. Something I should do more every day. Because that is all I got to work with and make the best of. And if I keep making the best of it maybe I’ll make it better for my children and their children. Wow, if I could pull something like that off wouldn’t it be an accomplishment.

Look it’s Mommy. Photo by Mike Hartley

It’s tough and getting tougher but we have to be strong, keep the love flowing because it’s all about the children. Yes, our grown children who are having or have children that make you grandparents or if your very lucky to live long enough, great grandparents. They are the future and wouldn’t it be beautiful to pass along a healthy and peaceful world. We have to show we can still make a difference working together.

I need to work on leaving them the earth to flourish in, not some wasteland. I’m going to focus on what I can do as an individual/family this year to help that effort. I’m thinking about these things and others because my family is expanding. I’ve looked into the eyes of my children and their children and while I’m sharing love and laughter with them, at the same time worry about what type of world I might be leaving them. Both in environment and culture.


New Years’ is becoming one of my favorite holidays. People are in good spirits. 2 days of nothing but sports food, celebration. No gifts to worry about. Being with family is optional. Being alone with your significant other like our plans are tonight at home is somewhat more special than other nights of the year.

Fireworks over the Bay. Photo by Mike Hartley

I happen to be off this New Years’ holiday, my last one for a few years, and I’m soaking it in. I’ve had time to open a book and read more than a chapter. I’ll have time to eat a relaxed dinner. I’ve spoken to friends without them or me feeling pressed for time. I’ll talk to my children later and hear the excitement in their voices. I’ll give and get a very meaningful embrace from my other half.

She will make a few special treats to snack on and we might go out for some carry-out. Football is on from morning till late evening a few hours before the countdown begins. Not that I want to sit in front of the TV for any amount of time but it’s a good diversion every few minutes till the good games come on later.

Tomorrow while the rest of the world is recovering from a hangover I’ll be trying to make a high-performance holeshot of production to start 22 right.


Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I wonder if the future is as foggy as it is outside here in Maryland this morning where visibility was about 0?
  • Worthwhile things take time.
  • I’m discovering the joy of books again. Well maybe the first time.
  • I’m going to try to colaborate more this coming year.
  • Look for what you can do instead of what you can’t now.
  • I hope everyone can find something to feel good about from 2021. For those who lost loved ones and or friends I know this is very difficult and I wish you peace.

Author: Mike Hartley

With a lifetime and a half in the Newspaper industry I'm preparing for my retirement career as an Artist, Writer, Photographer and Video content provider. I'm a proud father of two wonderful children and I'm still married to the first girl I fell in love with and probably only one that would have me.

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