I’m almost done the week working for someone else. In some ways, I’ve been done working for someone else for a few years now. That doesn’t mean I don’t give an honest day’s work and then some. It just means things have changed a lot and I look at it much differently.
Also built by Mother Nature. Can you imagine how pissed off those hornets were when a train would cross over? Photo by Mike Hartley
Work used to be a lot of fun. It was done with many talented friends. We shared many challenges and laughs. I’m glad to say I have still kept in contact with a great number of co-workers over the years and decades.
I guess I’m looking forward to not being so tired and under the gun when I’m trying to do my own work. Also, the full-time hours at night take their toll much harder than when I was younger. It’s much harder to flip back and forth.
I wonder if some of my health-related issues are connected. It’s a little too late to do anything about it now anyway so time to move on to another thought.
Those cool temps last night made me think of fall and winter approaching. And I almost forgot we are still in summer and I’m going to hold on to every last thread of it.
Trying to beat the heat. Photo by Mike Hartley
I almost forgot how lucky I am. Good thing there are a few good brain cells working to remember that one.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I can hear my grill screaming at me to get it cleaned up before the company gets here this weekend.
I have to work on powering through some things better.
An early morning ride is in order to celebrate the end of the workweek.
I’m going to try to spend as much time outside the next three days as I can.
This August has been an exceptional month. One with family, friends fun, and celebration. This past weekend was an event initially scheduled two years ago but because of covid, it got postponed twice. I had gotten tickets as a gift for my better half for one of her favorite artists.
And that event was the Rod Stewart concert at Merriwether Post Pavillon. It’s also the first time I used an iPhone as a camera for something I’ve posted here I believe. I’ll probably use one more in the future when I get my own.
But before I move on, that was a great show and very good musicians and vocalists. It was the first time I’ve been to Merriwether also since they renovated it and from what I saw in this limited first visit was wonderful. I know a lot of people complain about ticket prices and they are high but I felt we really got our money’s worth plus, in enjoyment. It makes me happy to see my wife so happy.
I like a few of his songs (not the disco era) and especially the old stuff with Faces. I was surprised his voice is so good at 77. And his band and show were first-rate. It’s kind of inspired me to maybe check out some more shows.
Yesterday was a day with my two best friends. One of fun, laughs, and relaxation. Great food and great views. One of the things I’ve been told when I visit is this experimental aircraft that flies by his shoreline on the weekends.
Well, I had my camera on when 5 O’clock Charlie (for those of you old enough to get the MASH reference) came by so I captured a frame or two.
No TSA Lines, no air traffic control. Photo by Mike Hartley
Looking for a place to land is pretty easy, just look over the side. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Getting pictures of grandchildren always improves my day.
I kind of felt lazy today. Then again I worked 11 hours, did some home chores, cooked, did photo editing, and did some writing. Maybe tomorrow I’ll really accomplish something.
I’m so looking forward to getting out and doing some shooting tomorrow. The batteries are just about fully charged and if I get some good images my batteries will be full.
I felt better today than I have in over a week. And boy do I appreciate it.
The weekend has been great so far and today will be the icing on the cake. The effort to make the best use of time is progressing. Of course that slap-in-the-face reality of the job that pays the bills starting just before sunset tonight looms. But till then, let the party begin.
A fixture on Main Street for decades. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s that time of year I think about my daughter and daughter-in-law who are both teachers. I always pause for a few minutes and try to wish them some good karma that it’s a successful and happy year. For I know the reality is filled with pressure and stress. May you each find the extraordinary patience needed for dealing not only with the kids but the parents also. And may you again find those special moments in the gems of those young minds that make teaching rewarding. And good luck to all teachers.
And please watch out on the roads for the buses and young ones running in and out.
Random Thoughts of the Day (morning edition)
There are few things that make me as happy as when I see my wife happy.
These are the days of summer that will stick in my memory banks to carry me through winter.
I really like the movie quote from Tombstone – “Doc Holliday: What did you ever want? Wyatt Earp:ย Just to live a normal life. Doc Holliday: There’s no normal life, Wyatt, it’s just life. Get on with it.”
Today is going to be a barrel of fun. Lots of plans and opportunities for fun and love. That is what weekends are for aren’t they?
The irony of saving rainwater on Main Street in Ellicott City. Photo by Mike Hartley
Live a little and laugh a lot. Why not, time is always shorter than you think. I’m living more in the moment than I used to. And I find great joy in that.
Yesterday I made the mistake of getting sidetracked late in the evening and posting yesterday’s post at midnight which technically made it today breaking the streak of 241 days. Well, that is just a technicality so I’m not going to get all depressed about it. So I’m going to change it up and try to start posting in the mornings.
I’m not one who likes missing a deadline of any type. So doing a morning post does two things for me. It gets the daily post completed without any chance of missing deadlines and if time allows a second post could be done later in the day.
So here is to increasing production and never missing another daily post.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Solitude is something everyone likes but not too much of.
Sometimes a packed weekend can be a lot of fun.
It pisses the hell out of me to have to pay someone to cut the lower backyard. But till I get this foot looked at I have to accept it.
The older I get the more selective I get in what I do.
I wish I knew what was sapping my energy. I have a lot of trouble admitting it possibly being age but I’m guessing that has a lot to do with it. But my mind keeps telling me to get my lazy behind moving but the body says the tank is on or about to be empty.
Even when I do some chores like push cutting a hilly 1/2 acre, I feel more winded and it takes a few minutes to recover when doing it in the heat.
So off to some doctor’s appointments making sure all is well and then some exercise routine to try to get the internal engine up speed again. I know part of it is the piss poor and irregular sleep patterns I have. The trouble is I can’t correct that till I no longer work nights.
I needed a pool today. Photo by Mike Hartley
I used to be pretty good about the heat of summer but this year it’s been tough to battle through at times. Well enough complaining, I’ll get busy inside this evening working on a collage I’ve started.
In some ways, I’ve surprised myself with posting for 241 days straight. I hope I can keep the streak going but it’s time to start building better content. Doing better at writing and more quality photography. If practice makes perfect doing both every day should yield some results on its own but I need to push myself more.
All my life I’ve been surrounded by wonderful writers and editors. I’ve worked with some truly great photographers and artists. And it’s intimidating as hell because having seen their work I know there is such a distance I have to go before I could consider approaching the quality of work they do.
Distances can be bridged. Photo by Mike Hartley.
In some ways, that’s motivating but in others, I know my overall work is still of amateur status. Showing my faults and mistakes on images and lack of any true writing background. And to drive that point home I failed 9th grade English and had to do summer school. Mainly because I didn’t like to go to class at that hour.
And you would have thought I would have learned the importance of grammar and spelling being my Mother was a proofreader in one of her positions at a newspaper chain. Well, this do-mass has to rely on Grammarly to save real embarrassment. (do-mass = my slang so I don’t go saying “Dumbass” out loud.)
And even though I’m writing here each day I really need to get to work on books. So I got a lot of wishes to crank up the volume of work so I had better get to it.
This reminded me of The Outlaw’s song Green Grass and High Tides. I might just have to go listen to it. Of course, the LIVE version which I’m thinking is about 20 minutes. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
The day is a success. I had a cherry snowball with my granddaughter.
When I get in a creative funk with one thing I have lots of others that I can turn my attitude around with. And that is the key, trying to stay in that zone.
Feeling focused this evening. Then again I just cleaned my glasses.
I feel like taking one of those warm summer night late-night rides.
A special day in many ways. A celebration of life for an old newspaper coworker and friend who was a fixture in Howard County Maryland and surrounding areas for decades in local journalism and national levels with the Post.
Days close up shop before I’m ready for them too. Photo by Mike Hartley
Good thing we used nametags. Some of the people who came I hadn’t seen in decades. Others I still keep in touch with. But we all are getting on in life, which seems to make gatherings like this even more special.
Chances to share handshakes and hugs. Opportunities to catch up and reflect on time together and how special it was. Mutual appreciation and admiration. And the thought we all saw, participated and thrived in a very special life and now the demise of newspapers.
And then this evening was having a chance to get together with my 2 best friends. Another night of laughter, stories, and plans for new ones. Oh, we solved a lot of the world’s problems. I hope someone was recording it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
How much of whatever isn’t being said, needs to be said?
When I tell people that 6 hours is a lot of sleep I tend to get pushback. Good thing I didn’t say 5.
I really enjoyed that ESPN series on “The Captian” Derek Jeter.
I’m 3 minutes away from getting in a recliner and even though I tell myself I won’t fall asleep I will.
I miss the two-wheel experience. Both my motorcycle and bike. I spent a lot of time on a seat between two wheels. But in the last 10-15 years it’s just renting bikes at the beach on vacations or at a friend’s house. The motorcycle has been gone for double-digit years now. But I would like to return to putting in some seat time and exploring.
Peaceful is the term that leaps to mind whenever I got on 2 wheels. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve been thinking of hitting the local bike shop and might do that after I see what is wrong with my foot next week. I just scanned the local shop’s website and it appears that things have changed a lot since my last bike purchase. There were bicycles that cost 5 digits. Don’t worry, I won’t be spending anything like that.
It’s so dangerous riding around here that I would probably get a rack for the car and mostly use them at the beach and at my friend’s home on Kent Island. Then again some rides at dawn might be possible out here in the town of Woodstock.
All I do know is that I miss getting on a bike and when I do it feels so right again. So if my health holds out you will see me on a bike again.
After some time outside today, I was fading like these guys. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Sometimes I think a slow-moving stream is peaceful. Then I see a sleeping child and peaceful is redefined.
Tomorrow I will think about being very alive with a short drive with the top down. Then a celebration of life for an old work friend with a few tears and then gathering with my best friends who I usually end the evening dying of laughter. I think Jim Valvano said something about that being a full day.
I’m not happy about this loan forgiveness program for college loans in what little I have heard about it so far. I’m going to go read through it and there better be something in it for us responsible ones who paid off our loans.
I thought I had an injured hawk but this guy was just working on a meal on the ground. I think one of the many squirrels about.
I believe this friend is a red-shouldered hawk. Photo by MIke Hartley
And yes the circle of life in nature is on display quite often being it surrounds me.
We had beef stroganoff. I’m not sure what was on this guy’s menu. Photo by Mike Hartley
All I know is I wasted an opportunity to shoot more today and I’m rather miffed at myself. So I’ll try to make up for it tonight with some more focus on displaying some images here at home.
He didn’t wait for me to adjust the shutter speed. Photo by Mike Hartley
I need a longer lens. Or a very tall ladder.
Caught this Osprey bringing dinner home. Photo by Mike Hartley
I can’t wait to get some shots of the eagles my friend has next to his home.
New socks can change your attitude. I recently got a new pair of shoes. Now for most of the human race that isn’t much of an event but I look at shoes like a car. I don’t own many and I drive them till they drop. But while I was making that purchase a set of cushioned socks caught my eye.
I’ve never really worn cushioned socks before but today is a good foot day and that translates to a few more smiles. Thank you Sketchers. I think I’ll try a walk tomorrow.
Almost time for me to get my own phone. Since a phone was mobile the employer has always taken care of that need. I was one of the last holdouts that had a flip phone. My iPhone is a 5 I believe so an upgrade will be nice. I think I’ll get one this fall and start the transition so it won’t be an issue when I do pull the plug on the job that pays the bills.
I hope everyone has had a wonderful Monday. I blink my eyes and a day is gone. But even though I accomplished little in the chore and creative endeavors I carved a place in my granddaughter’s heart by playing with her intently for hours today.
So back to the final (hopefully) series of images from Berlin Maryland.
Brick buildings line Main Street. Photo by Mike Hartley
Maybe this is what is meant by a slower pace of life. I can dig it. I’m into boards and bikes. Plus I like the flatness of the Eastern Shore.
Main Street transportation takes many shapes. Photo by Mike Hartley
Even the cars/suv’s come with bikes. Photo by Mike Hartley
I love outdoor dining. Well, most of the time. There certainly isn’t any shortage of it available in Berlin Maryland.
One of the great pleasures in life, eating well. Photo by Mike Hartley
There are so many unique stores to visit I can’t list or photograph them all but I did enjoy most of them.
Juice me. Photo by Mike Hartley
Not a town with your average storefront windows.
I wonder if there is a tortoise model? Photo by Mike Hartley
This is a town of Front Porches. Photo by Mike Hartley
A swinging and rocking place. Photo by Mike Hartley
You would think a Mermaid Museum would be on the water. Photo by Mike Hartley
A nice little bakery. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s too late in my career for a new manager again. But here we go.
There are only so many chances to do it right. That is why I try to do it at least once a day.
Back to some shots from Berlin Maryland. The two favorite spots in town for me besides the World of Toys store was the Beach Memories and Jeffrey Auxer Designs. The few shots I took don’t do their shops justice.
Inside Jeffrey Auxer Designs. Photo by Mike Hartley
More from Jeffrey Auxer. Photo by Mike Hartley
Artist working at Beach Memories. Photo by Mike Hartley
After a very good meal at the Hotel Atlantic on Wednesday evening, we had breakfast at the soda fountain across the street.
Good breakfast. Photo by Mike Hartley
They do pull off the old soda fountain feel. Photo by Mike Hartley.
There is something for everyone from formal to informal.
Open parlor at Hotel Atlantic. Photo by Mike Hartley
Brick, is the decor of the town.
It’s an easy walking town but I suggest bikes also because there are wonderful homes surrounding this town. Photo by Mike Hartley
A trip to the shore (Ocean City) and the little town of Berlin Maryland on Wednesday and Thursday with my better half. A few hours at the beach and a few at an old town made for a nice mix of good old Maryland experiences.
As the sign says “America’s Coolest Small Town.” Photo by Mike Hartley
Being my time at the beach this year has been limited, I used the day to soak it in. No photography at all there. The feeling of fingers and toes in the sand, the sound of crashing waves, the laughter of children, the warmth of the sun, and the coolness of the ocean breeze.
But that evening and the next morning I got to take a few as we wandered the town of Berlin.
The side of the Welcome Center. Photo by Mike Hartley
We had a nice stay at the historic Hotel Atlantic. Great staff and meal at the hotel on Wednesday night. The beds were a little soft for my liking though so I was up early to take a few shots before the courtyard filled.
Sunrise on Thursday. Photos by Mike Hartley
Hotel Atlantic at sunrise. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s late now and I’ve got a lot more editing to do so I’ll post some more images tomorrow and elaborate on what I liked about the town.
Have a good Sunday morning. I’m sure this and the many churches I saw in Berlin will be open. Photo by Mike Hartley
I promise a day of shooting at the beach in September.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I can’t believe schools are starting already. Not that I go to school. We just help watch children so our daughters can teach school.
Having worked all my life I can see why a lot of workers are dissatisfied.
I don’t feel good, but I feel better. So I’ll take that and run with it.
My confidence in management and ownership in this country to wake up to the fact that a lot of workers are dissatisfied is slim to none.
This has been a better day than expected. It’s great to be able to focus again. Being uncomfortable took a lot of enjoyment out of yesterday but it was still wonderful spending time with my better half. Doctors should bottle her hugs. They are very therapeutic.
Sometimes being off center isn’t all bad. Photo by Mike Hartley
Today I got the good news from a fellow cancer survivor that his prognosis could be better than originally forecast. There are few feelings that can even come close to touching that kind of information. I’m so happy for him and his family.
Tomorrow I should have a few shots of my midweek shoot in Berlin to share.
Random Thoughts of the Day
A haircut always picks up my spirits.
It really pisses me off to have to make a doctor’s appointment other than my regular checkups.
I am so lucky to have such close friends and family.
Say what you mean and believe. But do it with respect.
It’s fun to give a personal gift. Something you made.
I let some raindrops stop me from shooting tonight. Well, maybe some product shots after I finish this post.
Look to make a good impression each day. That way when your day comes all will have a good impression of you.
I saw this little gem in a walk behind an appliance store in Berlin Maryland yesterday. That little label at the bottom says Manufatured By Speigel Inc. Chicago Illinois.
Bet it still works. Photo by Mike Hartley
Health always rises to the top of the needs in life. And today I have felt far from my best. But being with the person who cares most about me in the world is very comforting.
I was hoping to edit some shots I took in the town of Berlin but that will have to wait till tomorrow.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Small towns fit me.
I like stopping by Wrights Market on the way home from the beach.
Pain takes away time you would have spent on other thoughts. To a better day tomorrow.
It’s a lot of fun taking trips when my better half is with me.
The good feeling of shooting fresh images each day is something I’m going to have to continue.
I’m shooting for Bliss today. And I’ve got a plan to make it happen. So what is bliss? Is it the “perfect happiness” as the definition in Oxford says? Is it at peace with yourself and the world? Maybe being in love? Getting your own home? Going on vacation? Making something special with your hands?
So many descriptions leap to mind. And infant in your arms. A toddler with super powers chasing you. That perfect cherry ice cream soda. Your garden is in bloom. Hitting the winning shot. Being on a cruise. I could go on and on.
Can it be one thing or does it have to be a culmination of things? Of course, bliss is different and somehow the same for everyone. Some may look at an old farmer and the hard work from sunrise to sundown and think of all the energy and time expended and wonder how can someone toil like that. Meanwhile, the farmer is in a state of bliss because he is doing what he loves and maybe his passion in life.
I can feel bliss just looking at nature. Photo by Mike Hartley
There will be a lot of people in life who like to ruin the bliss you may be shooting for or experiencing. Brush it off, regroup and find it despite them. Just keep moving towards that happiness.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s more difficult than you think to overthink things.
That shutter button is going to get a workout the rest of the week.
It’s better to laugh in disgust than to grit your teeth in disgust.
I find the ease with which gambling and sports are intertwined now very disturbing.
Photo editing is just like taking a photo. You’re trying to get the best one.
What a wonderful day. Sunny and cool for August but very comfortable. Today was that wonderful ritual of cutting the estate. And I use the term “estate” in humor. I have a little over an acre of property. And yes that is a nice amount but it looks like a postage stamp when I compare it to some of the spreads I saw on the eastern shore this past weekend.
My friend says these ospreys will be leaving the nest in about a month to head to warmer climates. Photo by Mike Hartley
One of my best friends has a home on Kent Island and we decided to explore a bit. We took a spin Saturday morning and he throws me the keys to his Vette. We tooled around the communities and back roads on the island and surrounding small towns, with a stop at the Owl Bar to meet a friend, before heading back to his home.
Yesterday’s shot of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge was Saturday night. This was Sunday morning. It’s an impressive structure. That is a cruise ship that has passed under it and a freighter about to go under it. Photo by Mike Hartley
Even though I would look at these estates with wonder, I didn’t feel the need or wish for one. They were wonderful homes with great views and sometimes multiple structures on the property. But I would feel guilty not cutting that and contracting it out. So there it is. Rich people will never know the solitude of sitting on a mower for an hour or two being totally consumed by the roar of the motor and blades doing their work and just getting lost in thought.
And it’s GOOD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Oh, by the way, it’s a blast driving a car with a stick and with over 600 horsepower.
Stuck? Looks can be deceiving. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
How can you not smile when you see a child?
A good evening for a ride with the top down.
Enjoy the next month or two, I have a feeling after that it’s going to get a little crazy for a while.
I guess I’m at that age where I actually have to start listening to my body.
I surprised my daughter with the color of gym shorts I purchased recently. I’m glad this old guy isn’t entirely predictable.
After a great weekend with friends and little sleep, I had to take a day of rest. Well, a good part of the day at least. But I’m back on track now and ready to produce tonight. But there is little time for deep thought on today’s post but I’ll get an early start on tomorrow.
Nature can make anything look small. Even the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Photo by Mike Hartley
Tuesday is a day for some local photography. I hope to get out early and then do the day’s chores in the afternoon. A man with a plan can’t be stopped.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m a firm believer that laughter and love extend life.
Isn’t it a great day when you no longer care what others think about you?
I am my own password manager.
I believe there is an artist in every one of us. It’s our choice if we want to use it.
I got a reminder I can’t hold the camera as steady on some low-light shots when I failed to use a tripod this weekend. Another sign of age.
Tonight I’m working for myself. Normally it’s for the job that pays the bills but not this evening. Actually, the job that pays the bills is still at work paying me for a vacation night. And by working I mean just a few hours, not all night.
There were a lot of boats burning up the Bay this weekend. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s a real treasure to eat well.
Great friends can make a great time a great thing to remember.
Weekends don’t get much more beautiful than this one.
But I’m hoping the coming weekdays give this past weekend a run for the money.
Well not if you live in tornado alley. Good morning all, may the breeze be at your back. A wonderful weekend ahead with fall weather in mid-August. Looks like we here in the mid-Atlantic can take a week off from the Global Climate crisis.
Today is a day for very old friends. Some celebrated in memory and some in person.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
My favorite season is socks optional.
The older you get the more you hope to see people again.
There are only so many hours this weekend and I intend to use them all.
I guess it must be a wonderful year being it’s moving so fast.
My body was feeling better this morning and looking forward to an upbeat and productive day. And then the thought that creeps into my head once in a while where I wonder how many healthy days I have ahead reared its ugly presence. I never thought about that for the first 5 decades of my life.
But from that first cancer diagnosis, that question has been in my mind on and off for the last decade and a half. All of us probably define healthy days differently, because it all depends on your perspective. My personal definition of healthy days is one where I’m not in a hospital and or sick from surgeries or treatments that it wouldn’t make a difference if you were at a hospital or at home.
My neighbor’s sunflowers reached the sky. Photo by Mike Hartley
It makes the days I have bad back issues always less impactful. Yeah sometimes it lands me horizontal or in major discomfort but I know it will pass and even then I can think or attempt to do something creative or even just work like I do many nights.
The discussions with friends and family are unavoidable when friends or coworkers our age or younger pass on. It gives us pause and we reflect together on how lucky we are.
All I know is that I’ve gotten better at using time and I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for life and what is good and special about it.
Perfect days I can best describe as ones with my family in relaxed times together sharing their children with us their grandparents. A whole new generation of children to think about their happiness and health on a daily basis.
Just like my own children were this gift that I had no idea was so precious beforehand, my grandchildren have me born again in ways I didn’t see coming either.
I had one of those perfect days today and now I can have a perfect weekend ahead.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What was that strange chill in the air outside this morning?
Water always has been one of the world’s most important commodities. But in some areas of this country, it’s moving up the charts quickly.
It’s nice when you reflect on a decision and ask “what was I thinking” after having come to the right decision but close to making the wrong one.
The more thought and organization I have the better my life seems to be. Would have been nice to discover that combo earlier in life besides at the job.
I’ve had a beard most of my life. It started to come in early, around 14-15. From the time I graduated on, I’ve pretty much had one except for a few months at the most. I mostly keep it short so I do trim it at least once or twice a week.
I am also more comfortable with a beard than without one. But I’m also a little lazy I guess. I remember shaving irritating my neck something awful. And being of the type that looks like I need a shave again at the end of the work day that it’s easier to just not fight it.
As the grey started to creep in the thought of shaving crossed my mind but I dismissed it. I find it kind of funny that the grey has been very symmetrical in terms of its spread. And I like the grey standing out against my tan in the summer.
Stuck on you. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s too late in life now to think about changing. People might never recognize me, I’ve had one for so long. And don’t worry, I won’t be tempted to color it back to the color it was when I was young because I’m not young in body, just in mind.
I shouldn’t have wasted as much time today but the workweek just finished and those long nights take more out of me now. But tomorrow I create.
Random Thoughts of the Day
When you don’t get many good night’s rests and you see an opportunity for one it’s kind of exciting.
Only a few more months of flip-flop season.
You don’t look forward to getting older as much till you are older.
I imagine there are some people who can’t overthink things if they tried.
How much to share? What do I share? How do I avoid oversharing? Why the reflection, well I got to thinking I’ve been doing this for about 8 years now and I would think I would have found my path, lane, passion, direction, and purpose by now.
That really hasn’t happened and I’m still searching but I’m learning along the way.
Photo by Mike Hartley
But in some aspects, I’ve already found my way and a vehicle I like. I’ve gotten enjoyment from doing this and sharing images and thoughts. I use it to challenge myself in things I’d like to do much better when time allows now and into retirement.
I went back to my “About” page and read it over. I noticed I hadn’t updated it in about 5-6 years because the number of years I’ve been married was way off. I also noticed that I’m pretty much on the path I set out on. I haven’t done much video but that can and will change.
Might be time to mix things up. Photo by Mike Hartley
Now it’s time to improve the content and quality of the blog. If for no other reason than to prove to myself that I can do it.
My photo goals of the Day:
Go back and watch some tutorials on some features I haven’t taken advantage of on my camera.
Work on lighting with textures this evening.
Start collage on the office wall.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Do you ever feel something just steals hours of the day without you noticing till you say “where did the day go?” I wish I could catch that thief.
Thunder and lightning are intoxicating to me.
Catching up with an old friend this weekend, life is good.
Living as you are pressed for time isn’t a bad way to live. Because we all have limited time.
Today is going to be a good day. I am willing it to be one. Regardless of the oppressive heat or our evening thunderstorms. Progress is being made and initiative is back. And speaking of back, my better half has returned from a short trip.
Steps to Where?
Photo by Mike Hartley
So all is right with the world. Well not really, but I’ll live in my own little space today and try not to get involved in the discourse that has arisen. Plus it’s summer and all I can think of is getting back to the beach soon. Either that or playing with my grandchildren.
Do you spend your time looking for a parking space instead of laying on the beach? Go in September or October. The water is still warm in September and the temps both months are great.
Bethany Beach during the summer. Photo by Mike Hartley
And once you find a space there is a line to get to the sand.
Not the express lane to the beach. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
I feel so excited when my creative juices return.
When you have friends that you really look forward to spending time with, you have chosen the right friends.
Some think the last decade or so has been a real roller coaster. Buckle up the ride has yet to start.
I’m much better at sorting out what to keep and what to throw away when I’m in better spirits.
It’s county fair season and my hometown one is underway. So I think I’ll take advantage of Senior Day and see if I can get some photos of this year’s events.
We volunteered many years staffing The Times information booth and making announcements. It was a blast because I would do it with one of my best friends.
I’m coming up on what I hope to be a productive period with some time off from the job that pays the bills and a short break from helping with child care. I love that later one though.
Pumpkin from previous fairs. Yes that is a full-size skid under it. Photo by Mike Hartley
Today is one of those days where I feel I have nothing left in the tank. No passion to share. No new images or art to display. Nothing, nada, zilch.
Tomorrow I’ll step it up. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Going it alone means you report to yourself, so what type of boss are you?
I just thought of another daily goal I can add to the list. At least one new print every day.
My attitude sucks when I don’t get enough sleep.
I don’t even know all the questions so why would I assume I have all the answers?
If we all really put our minds to something, I wonder how much more we could accomplish. I say this in the context that everyone has interests and beliefs they don’t have the time or resources to always act upon.
It could be a fear issue of being identified with a cause or belief. Or maybe it’s a confidence issue that we can’t change the world. The belief that one person can’t make a difference or create something great. It could be that the opportunity for contribution or greatness is denied because of a brutal environment, lack of education, or economic strife.
Something is growing inside. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s within all of us to do more. If it’s something simple in your life that gives you joy or positivity or maybe helps others. Just participating in important processes like going to a memorial service, or voting in not just the general elections but all elections. Because if you don’t vote in primaries your candidate might not be there for the general election.
Lots of simple but wonderful ideas turn into businesses or passions that in turn help others. Maybe helping a friend through a difficult time or with difficult decisions in life, providing them with important perspectives or options.
I wonder how much life would be better if we just took the time to maybe hold the door for an elderly person or carry their bag. Maybe spend time talking to someone dealing with medical issues to just cheer them up.
Some of it is easy. We were pulling away from visiting my Son and his family yesterday and saw an older woman helping an elderly person to an SUV. I slowed and passed them and stopped about 20 feet passed them and turned to my better half and said I wonder if they need help. She said back up and we will ask. They said no but it would have been fine if they said yes because we had or would have made the time.
I didn’t mean to focus on the elderly, lots of our youth need help and guidance, and mentors. Or maybe some words of encouragement and wisdom. I know I needed them as a youth. Several people along the way have helped me grow and helped me with direction and I shudder to wonder what would have become if they hadn’t.
Veterans and their families need support in a big way. And we have been failing them.
So I sit here wondering what more I can do today and tomorrow that I didn’t do as well or would have like to have done or created. For me, it comes down to time management. What can I let go of and stop repeating the cycle of previous priorities?
There are a few things I need to change that will free up some time even with the full-time job. So I will get to wondering what I can do each day with that right now instead of waiting for retirement time to do more.
I don’t know exactly what I’m going to do but I’m going to try to start doing something. More time helping people directly. Maybe more regular donations. Just being kind and respectful is a good start.
I started with the word Wonder today. Because I looked in the eyes of my Grandson yesterday and the deep look of wonder I saw reflected gave me pause. Also with my Granddaughter, the day before we went to Ace (Clarks) Hardware together and I looked back at her at checkout as the guy asks me if I want to contribute to their Bucket drive for Children’s Miracle Network, so I said yes. How can anyone say no to helping children? I see so much intensity in their wonder of experiencing life that it was inspiring. The world is full of wonder so go out and participate in it, create it, and find the good in it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Summer and seafood are a pair that is hard to beat.
For a long time, I thought I missed the boat by not getting on Instagram as an aspiring photographer but now as I see photographers trashing it’s changing so I’m glad I didn’t waste my time.
I love that I get a good tan without even trying. Another joy of being outside.
You will be a lot happier if you are not in a hurry if you need service for anything.
I guess I’m kind of a homebody at heart. I do like to get out but I don’t stray far from home often. Mostly because time is limited and resources for extensive travel haven’t been a priority over family. But the time is becoming available and the resources are there for a few trips in the future so I guess I’m in for some changes.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Plus some travel will make my better half very happy. Travel makes me nervous. As soon as I relinquish control of the mode of transportation I’m nervous. Once I get there I’m cool again but I’m never comfortable completely in a plane, train or boat.
Camera Shy. Photo by Mike Hartley
So I will suck it up and go because we will both enjoy it. There is a lot of the United States that I would like to see, but I know one of the priorities of my better half is Ireland. But until that day comes a couple of day trips to some small towns in Maryland might be in order.
Random Thoughts of the Day
An infant grandson in my arms today is a feeling like I’m getting some days added to my life as he looks into my eyes. Because whatever is ailing me, my grandchildren can cure it.
Mistakes happen. Clean up, move on.
I’d like to be able to devote more time to my health. I’ll have to remind myself of that tomorrow morning as I’m laying in bed deciding if I should go for a walk or not.
I’ve got to charge some batteries so I can do some shooting tomorrow. I hope its a nice morning.
I love waking up before sunrise. Even when I go to bed late, I usually get up early on my days off. Getting up early provides the opportunity to accomplish a lot. And my major accomplishment today was making a little girl happy. Well, that will be the most gratifying one but I do hope to work on my hobbies in the few hours left today.
A flower in front of a cornfield along Rt 99. Photo by Mike Hartley
I blink my eye and another day has passed. I have to stop getting discouraged if I haven’t had any time to spend till the last few hours and make the best of it instead of being frustrated. I have to start looking at progress in increments.
Trying to get on the ground before that storm hit. Photo by Mike Hartley
And today’s incremental success was some photo editing and finding a good family shot for my Son who is doing some things for his home.
They made it but I wouldn’t want to be on anything after them for a few hours this evening. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Car covers save car washes.
Oscars Ale House in Eldersburg has some good grub.
Make that one-on-one time with your children happen, in addition to that family time.
An early morning photo shoot is in order for tomorrow.
I wish my local snowball stand was open late, I have a taste for one now.
I see Karma paid a visit to Alex Jones. May it continue to visit him in the future.
I’m thankful I didn’t leave a few minutes earlier and get caught in that accident today. I’m thankful to have such thoughtful children. I’m thankful my workweek is over and I can get a night’s rest for a change of pace.
Saw this name on a home at Bethany Beach. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m thankful I got the cover on my car before those storms. With a new grandchild, I’m thankful I have a lot of photo paper on hand. I’m thankful to find an old picture I haven’t used in a post yet because I’m too tired to download and edit what I shot today.
I’m thankful that lightning and thunder didn’t knock out my power for more than a few seconds and break my daily posting string. Kind of ironic I was saving a draft of something for just that occasion. I should finish that one up tonight, looks like a few stormy days ahead.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There is only a day or two a year that I feel it’s too hot to put the top down and I use the A/C. Today was one.
I thought about what I ate today. On second thought, I think about what I eat every day. Some days I must think a lot more.
It’s too early for football. (the American kind)
I wonder if some people think I only have 3-5 random thoughts a day because that is how many I post.
I see Wendy’s is trying to redo the image of the soggy fries they used to serve.
Determination is a fine thing. Driving through standing water isn’t. Anyway, I thought this photo showed someone powering through the storm. I feel like I might be in one myself and want to power through but it’s been getting the best of me the last few days.
And what do they say about driving through standing water?
Photo by Mike Hartley
I don’t know why I just don’t take a sick day. It would be well within reason but I’ve powered through. There are some advantages to getting used to powering through. It’s an excellent overall mentality and can steel you towards big challenges.
But everyone needs help and support once in a while. So don’t let pride keep you going when you should be taking a break. I felt like I had slowed down and was resting, even to the point of feeling guilty but my better half reminded me I was still doing too much.
Maybe tomorrow I’ll strike a better balance, I have already taken some action canceling a few things. Like yard work for one.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Do things that are special for others.
I looked up the definition of “Hot” in Websters and it said “see August 4th, 2022.
My life has been ruled for decades by deadlines. I finally get control of the schedule soon.
Always spend time with each of your children independently.
With all the hurt in the world, how can we not work to make it better tomorrow for someone?
My flow has been interrupted by pain. It’s cut into my sleep. It’s cut into my positive energy. It’s cut into my creative time. And it’s one of those days it isn’t going away. I’m sorry to start off complaining. Others deal with worse and more chronic pain than I do now.
So we will power through the rest of the day and hope for a better flow tomorrow.
When you have the fishing hole to yourself. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
The more commitments I make the more I get done.
It’s awful early in the evening to be this tired.
Challenges are endless, so don’t get depressed when you meet one and before you know it you’re onto the next.
A lot of us have trained ourselves to have a blind eye, but both see really well when checked by the optometrist.
Some days I wonder about my purpose. I don’t look at it as someone or something determining my purpose. I believe we set our own along the way in our life. Most of the time I’m too busy living each day but even then I’m declaring my purpose. What priorities did I have, and what actions did I take?
Many times I feel like I have too many purposes. Many times I feel others trying to prioritize my purpose. But I’m going to try to keep it simple today. My purpose is to keep my sanity today and try to stay positive, not just for myself but for others.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
If only the phrase Endless Summer were true.
Pain is an interesting alarm clock. It has no snooze button.
Sometimes I enjoy walking out and seeing nature and its creatures. It’s when I walk back inside and some of those creatures have entered uninvited that I’m not so thrilled about it.
May an extra dose of Karma fall upon that piece of crap that ran over the Amazon Delivery driver.
