Life is what you make of it. And today I’m trying to make something out of nothing. Yep, I’m working on that becoming an artist illusion again. It’s one of those things that you never know if it’s a waste of time or if it connects with someone or many. Hey, it’s the path I’m choosing so that is all I need.

Started on an idea for a project called Beauty & The Beast. In a bizarre set of coincidences the last two floods in Ellicott City (2016 and 2018), I spent the day before each one and the morning of one taking a few pictures in town. And then witnessing the devastation after each and having some of those photos I thought I would combine some for a contrast of a town that has taken some serious blows. I also got some B&W images that I took of Hurricane Agnes flooding in 1972 that I might mix in.

It’s a shame those floods were a lot of our own making with the over-development and combined with two freak storms caused so much heartache for so many.

I have several projects going which have really excited me. It feels so good to be learning and expanding by doing. But I’m also cracking some books/docs also. So we have maximum motivation going into the week ahead. I just hope work doesn’t step on it too heavily.

I kind of wish I had the holiday off tomorrow but what the hell, it’s not one that everyone else is off for.

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We had a great surf and turf special at Shannon’s on Saturday night. Oh and I shouldn’t forget the chocolate mouse cake we split for dessert. We enjoy it there and have for decades. Always very good food and service in a comfortable spot. Parking is a pain in the backside sometimes but it’s a popular strip mall. And the best part was the company of my better half.

The week before we had another good meal at Facci’s in Turf Valley with some longtime friends.

Food is such a great part of life I think I’ll start rambling about positive experiences we have in dining being we make it out every so often.

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Random Thoughts of the Day

• We should get out of the house more. The longer we are in it, the more we see what needs to be done.
• The more you know yourself the better off you are. And if you find you don’t like some parts, change them.
• Music can take you places if you just go with it.
• A bow of respect to Mr. Jimmy Carter for a life lived in public service.