I watched a beautiful sunrise on the Atlantic Ocean this morning from one of the webcams in Ocean City MD. There is still snow on the beach and boardwalk there. And some more on the way later today.

It’s time to trim the beard before I start looking like Grizzly Adams. Even though it does provide a little extra warmth at this time of year.

In looking at the images of the devastation in California, it has moved me to make a donation to the Red Cross this morning. Someone has to start asking the question, “should we build here” when these events happen. They asked those questions after other disasters like Katrina. I hear insurance was difficult to get even before the fires. It’s going to be impossible for anyone to get it in the future.

Other parts of the country could be in store for more events like this. The population of many coastlines are in jeopardy. And its far from the only area of the country that experienced drought.

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Had a few friends visit outside my back slider door this morning. This guy had me in his sights. It’s so friggin cold out today they would sit, duck and close their eyes at times when the wind would gust. Then just as fast hop up and fly away.

If my mom were alive I could call her and ask what they were, and she would know. I did keep a few books of hers, and I think one was a guide to birds. I might have to go rummage around for that if I intend to keep posting wildlife.

Photos by Mike Hartley

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I love to blog but I need to improve my content. I started off this year trying to increase the number of posts I do each day. My goal was 4 a day. I’m averaging 2.6 so far. Good thing I caught myself slacking already 10 days into the year.

The thought was the more post would inspire me to do more photography. It does but that is an additional production to fit into the day.

Time is mostly the limitation, but not utilizing my time correctly is another. I’m good at starting early and getting the first post out most days. And sometimes a follow-up one before noon. But the second half of the day, I’ve been allowing too many distractions.

I have increased communications with some people which is a good thing but it takes time. I’m also trying to read and learn more which is great, but producing at the same time is difficult.

Of course there is life which gets in the way. Doctors appointments, social visits, babysitting, appealing my property tax, insurance comparisons, to mention just a few this week.

But I will get back to my goal and at the same time try to get some better content.