Daily writing prompt
You’re writing your autobiography. What’s your opening sentence?
Discovering, and experiencing what I want to be, while searching for who is the Real Me, as the multitude of us march onward despite rumors to the contrary.
Author Archives: Mike Hartley
Morning Moon
On the morning of 2/27/24 in Ocean City, I’m usually up before sunrise so out I went. Still, some remnants of the full moon left so thought I’d try it with a couple of landmarks as I wandered the downtown area with the first 2 images below.
Yes, I was lazy, my back was hurting and I didn’t grab the tripod as I should have. Something I promise not to do anytime I’m working nights from now on. I’m going to visit in the offseason again next year because I missed many opportunities.
With the water in the 40s I didn’t feel like dipping my toes in yet.
It’s such a contrast from the other 10 months of the year. Come January and February the place is a series of builders, maintenance, and infrastructure workers. Of course, a few locals and the staff for some hotels and restaurants but it’s nothing like the other months.
I’m not a big crowd person, for some reason, they don’t bother me that much here during the summers.
Perseverance
Perseverance is a good thing to have in life. Both photographers and fishermen are up and about early and throughout the day and night.
3 living objects
The Daily Writing prompt asks What are three objects you couldn’t live without?
Beyond the things in nature that sustain us, I went with a few things in my life.
Let’s see, I’ve lived without technology in my life so I know computers and smartphones, I’d rule out. Yes, I was around when those things weren’t for the most part as you know it today. And I do love all this stuff now but won’t include it.
So what 3 objects have been with me all my life that I can’t live without? From a very young age I can remember being interested in the cameras around the house. The slide projector of my Dad’s service days clicking along on the screen. I love photography and I’ve continued that love all my life so the first object is a camera.
The second one would probably be a car. I almost said motorcycle but I’ve learned to live without one even though that has been difficult. But a car has been part of me from the day I started remembering things. I love to drive and always have and will, especially my Miata. And it looks like a top-down day today.
This last one is hard to confine to one object so I’ll put them in a box together. All the little family things that have no value to anyone other than me. Things that I have tucked away from each family member, my better half, my two children, and now my grandchildren and of course my parents and sister.
ZigZag
Life is full of twists and turns. Take a seat once in a while and right yourself and your path.
Smoothing Life
If they say “Life is a Beach” then these guys make it a smooth one. The kind of carpet I long for all year long. The carpet I will return to over and over for its comfort and soundtrack of waves hitting the shore.
Life is smoothing out for me because that virus is ending I hope. By tomorrow I hope to be ready to rock and roll again. The last few days have left me weak and lighter than I would like. So today I’ll repair myself and eat again.
I have to get back to smoothing life for some very important people. Someone very close first and then a few other friends who could use some support.
And of course, I can’t help others unless I help myself so I’ll get back to the pursuits/passion I love. I’m looking forward to a wonderful day despite the rainy start to the morning outside. It’s good to feel alive again even though I’m not at full strength.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Listening to music while creating is a wonderful tool.
- I had better trim this beard, I’m starting to look like Paul Bunyan. Whoops, I guess that reference shows my age.
- Sometimes I still yearn to throw my leg over a motorcycle and roll. Once you’ve ridden, the desire never fades.
- Missing my children. I’ll have to cure that this week.
Grow
The Daily Writing prompt asks “What experiences in life helped you grow the most?”
- Losing my dad at a young age.
- Getting married
- Having children
- Stop being an alcoholic
- My career
- Realizing life and learning was fun
- Medical issues made me realize how important health is and therefore each day.
- Retirement is opening up new doors and may be added to the list in time.
Window message received
This message was rather striking on an early morning walk in Old Town EC a few weeks ago. It also reminded me I’m going to fall far short of reading a book in February. I haven’t touched the one I started in two weeks. I guess I’ll have to move things back or double up in March.
I would like to apologize for not following along with the postings for the last few days. I’ve been horizontal with a bug since Wednesday night and I was away 2 days before that. Hopefully, tomorrow is a better day and I can return to normal reading and production.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Health is everything.
- It’s hard to type while shivering.
- Despite the poor start, this is going to be a great month.
- My sleep has been so disturbed, it’s almost like I’m back working night shifts again.
Do I believe?
Do you believe in fate/destiny? So asks, the daily writing prompt.
That’s a question I haven’t given much thought to in the past. My short answer after looking at the definitions is no. But I believe we make our fate/destiny as we go along with the decisions and actions we take every moment of our lives.
Normally I would ramble on more but I’m fighting a nasty virus. So I’ll just leave my short reply. Have a good day all.
Enjoy working
Do you enjoy your job? So asks, the daily writing prompt.
Yes, I enjoy the hell out of my job now. After 48 years in publishing, I’m now retired and working for myself learning to become a professional photographer, writer, and artist.
It’s a lot of fun, I set my hours. I deal with who I want to deal with. I’m the only person I have to please. I do my reviews and provide my incentives. I photograph what I want, write what I want, and sketch what I want.
No sitting on the front porch for this guy, not yet, at least.
Goodbye
The Daily writing prompt asks to “Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.
It was hard to say goodbye to the last 3 days. Spending time with my better half away in a relaxed setting and no obligations. Just ourselves to ourselves. Not that I don’t enjoy being home or with people. It’s hard to get that relaxed time to ourselves for more than a part of a day sometimes.
That’s my short-term answer. My real answer is below.
When our parents passed this was probably the most difficult phase of life and still is at times. The world changes if you have very loving parents and they are no longer there. Few know you better, are more supportive, and have unwavering love for you.
In some ways, I never want to say goodbye. When I visit my parent’s grave at Arlington National Cemetery I always stand there talking to them, updating them on events, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
I had to say goodbye to them at two very different stages of life. Dad died very young and therefore I was very young (9) and didn’t know how to handle it at all. Mom lived a long life but suffered from dementia late in life and as a caregiver that brought its challenges, now I find the humor in that was difficult to see at the time.
I was with them both when they passed. I never got a chance to say goodbye to my father, he was unconscious when I found him dying suddenly. I had time to say a lot to my mom while she was older before her mind started to slip and even then I would say things to her that I think she understood by the smile she had. But she was also unconscious for the last several days in hospice but I would talk to her all day long still.
Life does go on. I’m so busy with my children and grandchildren that I don’t speak to my parents every day now. Sometimes a wink or smile at a picture of them. Or I’ll see a 57 Chevy that my dad had and pause. I’ll be sorting some old things and run across something of theirs. I was cleaning my workroom and ran across an old medical kit from my dad from WWII the other day.
There is that phase where you are forced to say goodbye, but in some ways you never do.
Back in the Saddle
We took a quick trip to the beach and felt rejuvenated. A wonderful time and I didn’t take the computer. I did a post on Monday morning before we left. Did another one and scheduled it for Tuesday and now I’m back to catch up and have fun again.
But I hear the weather report behind me and talk of 40-50 mph gusts of wind shortly so I’ll do a quick one in case I lose power. I’ll do the daily writing prompt for yesterday and today if the power stays on but just share this quick note now.
I have a ton of observations about being on the shore in the off-season. Tons of photos to edit but 2 quick ones here to keep my daily streak intact and add it’s good to be home and back in the saddle.
Why
Why? Because everything has its timeline and we get frustrated when it surprises us. Why? Because we have the illusion of control when we don’t. Why? Because hope seems futile till it gets you through some things. Why? Because some people are born bad. Why? Because some people are born unlucky. Why? Because some people make bad choices.
Why Not? Place a bet, everything is a gamble. Why not? Order that steak, you know you want it. Why not? Sleep an extra hour to feel rested. Why not? Live today like it could be your last day. Why not? Share something special. Why not? Do your own thing. Why not? Rise above the rest.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Old is when you saw the NBA Logo play a game.
- All the things I don’t know overwhelm the feeling that I know a lot of things. And that is a good thing. It keeps that learning things gear engaged.
- My first red car I got a lot of speeding tickets. My current red car has no tickets. But my current red car is faster than my first red car.
- I wonder if my kids will laugh at some of the things I collect.
Ambition-Reality
I was thinking back because the daily writing prompt asked me to “Describe the most ambitious DIY project you’ve ever taken on.”
Let’s see, I’ve done the typical home projects like a deck, landscaping, and basement but I did have help from friends with those so I guess that’s not a true DIY.
And then it popped into my head, what I’m doing now is the most ambitious project in my life. I’m starting a new career as a photographer, writer, and artist and I hope to become a professional in each. Yes, a lofty goal, one that will take a ton of work. The time in this career won’t equal the 48 years in Newspapers so I’m under the gun to make my mark quickly.
So I work at them every day. It’s kind of easy in one respect because it’s a passion. In reality, it’s tough as hell because it’s real work. And it’s all me doing each piece. Each day I realize I didn’t start that sketch I thought of, work on that photo project, or complete that chapter in the story I’m writing. So each day I fall a little short of my goals and it’s a little frustrating. But that fades with sleep and the next morning I’m excited again.
And then there are the mornings I’m kind of riding high because of the previous day’s accomplishment when I realize that I forgot to charge the camera batteries as I’m going out the door. A good reminder that it’s a lot of little things that make you good. And also that I’m finite, which is a limitation.
Today is another day to build on the most ambitious project of my life. What more could one ask for? The opportunity to build an original.
Wingtips
No, not the shoes.
This is another reminder of how much I miss summer. And while it’s warming up a bit it’s far away yet. But I intend to get out and do lots of photography this week regardless of the winter season we are still in.
Without the word
The Daily writing prompt asks “If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?
A world without the word “War” – Maybe other words like peace, compromise, respect, discussion, and resolution will get some play.
WWII Memorial in Washington DC
Photos by Mike Hartley
6 at a time
What is the biggest challenge you will face in the next six months? Asks the Daily Writing prompt.
An interesting timeframe to pick for this question. In just less than 6 months, a follow-up doctor’s appointment, and if I ring a bell again more tests and maybe more problems.
These tests are for an opponent that I have kicked its ass twice already. It was nasty and I have many scars from the battles and cancer messed me up pretty good. So the challenge is living like a normal person thinking everything will be OK and relaxing and enjoying the day as everyone else.
Or start to fret and try to cram in as much of life as I can into every day. I fight every morning to just relax and let life come or go balls to the wall to get all the stuff I want to accomplish and as much fun fit into every day.
While cancer is a physical battle it’s a mental one also. Once it visits you, your mind is changed. Your eyes start to look over your shoulder. You hear footsteps. Little whispers of caution. Some days it’s like this building drumbeat. You’re on edge. And while there are days you’re successful at pushing it completely aside, there are few, even when you are free of it.
There are constant reminders of the many people also facing the same battles, some of them family or close friends. And then if someone isn’t successful in their fight, it somehow seems to chip away at your armor.
There are medicines on your dresser. Lab appointment reminders. Medical insurance is a critical factor. Constant reminders.
As I look up just over my laptop screen is a pile of wristbands that I keep as souvenirs of past surgeries. They remind me to get out and enjoy the day and that I can survive. I have a ton of stuff from work about certifications or classes but I only keep one Diploma on the wall, from the University of Maryland Medical Center from the department of radiology.
You live from doctor tests to the next test. Hoping for the best news and a smile from the doc saying you’re good to go, fist bump and I’ll see you in 3, 6, 9, or 12 months. It’s those few where they say let’s run some more tests that give you pause.
I’m one of the lucky ones so far. So I’m very thankful. My Mom would remind me often when I was young that many are worse off.
So let me get busy living and doing what I think is important. I hope everyone has a great day also.
I can’t wait for the first warm sunny day to put the top down and point my Miata to the east and not stop till I get to the beach in OC.
Weeding
I was looking at my blogging drafts folder and what a mess. Hundreds of ideas started. Time to weed out that mess and trash, or finish and publish. I guess I got spurred along to do this because I finally cleaned out and organized one of my email accounts and that felt great.
I’ve started to look at things and was reminded I’m a bit of a pack rat. So here is to a fresh start of getting things back to a manageable level in a few areas. Cleaning up the photo library, the office, the workroom, and the filing system to start with.
Doing this to kind of restart my start. I got busy and made a ton of progress immediately upon retirement last month. But all kinds of logistics, commitments, appointments, changes, and as always unexpected emergencies left me with unfinished business.
So I’m going to use the few remaining days in February to get my act together.
A few verses I like from a song called Something for Nothing by Rush
No, you don’t get something for nothing
You can’t have freedom for free
You won’t get wise
With the sleep still in your eyes
No matter what your dream might be
What you own is your own kingdom
What you do is your own glory
What you love is your own power
What you live is your own story
In your head is the answer
Let it guide you along
Let your heart be the anchor
And the beat of your song
Oh you don’t get something for nothing
You can’t have freedom for free, no
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Damn good start to the morning.
- There is strength in silence at times that is stronger than speaking out.
- I miss having a pet.
- I’m a resilient son of a bitch.
- Experience and life are teaching me some of the reasons people stop writing. I won’t be one of them though. Learning to use things for inspiration.
Advice for my yutes
What advice would you give to your teenage self? I think I answered a daily prompt question like this long ago but maybe this old man’s memory isn’t as sharp as it once was so I’ll answer today.
I’ll try to keep it short even though my teenage self/selves could have used a lot of advice. Or maybe we weren’t listening.
Try harder academically. Stop drinking like a fish, you’re becoming an alcoholic. You don’t know what love is yet. Don’t give up on your dreams, even though a career may take you another way at times. You only have one body, take better care of it. Have more confidence in yourself. Look for and find healthy ways to stay mentally healthy. Set your sights higher.
The Real Me
The Real Me is one of my many favorite songs from The Who. It made me think about who the real me is. Nobody knows the real me. The real me is a bunch of mixed-up voices swirling about my noggin all trying to take control of aspects of my life.
And what a life it has been. One of many joys and trials along the way. One that continues to find new loves, passions, and perspectives on living. One blessed with some great friends and family who have guided and supported me laughed with and at me, loved and grieved together.
At the same time, life has left me saddened, disappointed, dismissed, scarred, hurt, and changed—periods without hope and joy. And I guess that is true for most of us. Life throws us all some pretty good challenges from time to time and sometimes over an entire lifetime.
I feel I’ve developed this internal space that I try my best to shield myself from those negative emotions or disappointments. To find some sense of joy or respect or love that will allow me to keep putting one foot in front of the other. I had to do that to survive, it wasn’t healthy to have that anger, angst, and disappointment inside.
A good friend reminds me often of the quote “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” I find myself evaluating reality more now instead of my hopes or wishes. Sometimes I find some hard information and truths.
As I’ve gotten older the time to hope for change fades. Things are what they are. And I am who I am, which is probably part of the issue. So some changes are in progress and I’m starting to get to a more comfortable spot.
Time and what I do with it now each day is what matters. As the quote at the top of my To Do List reminds me “Make the rest of your life, the best of your life.”
So here is to a good Thursday ahead.
What I miss
A few things I miss (and don’t) about a job
I miss everything and nothing about my job. And I’m fine with retirement after a few weeks.
I miss seeing some of the people as often as I did. But have replaced that and the time I had to spend with others I don’t miss, with people I like is nice.
I thought I would miss being challenged or having a manager to challenge me. Nope, I’m fine with this because I’ve often challenged myself more. And I like being in charge, for a change of pace.
I do miss being part of an organization and people that I thought were doing an important service for society. So I do have to find a way to replace that.
I do miss messing with people who think they know everything.
I miss my office chair, it’s more comfortable than my home one.
I miss watching the power plays, games, and maneuvering people do to get ahead at work.
I do miss having a second home but am relieved I no longer have to commute to it.
I do miss standing shoulder to shoulder with valued co-workers doing difficult things in difficult times. And of course, I miss the fun times and laughter we shared very much.
I miss the “thank yous” after helping people on the job. But I hope to replace that soon.
I don’t miss night shifts.
I miss the excitement of the daily news cycle and deadlines all day long causing a constant flurry of action and reactions.
In some ways, I miss the pressure of having a machine and keeping it running at all times, and if it had a hick-up we had better have it fixed before someone sneezed. No failure to publish under my watch.
I do miss sharing my knowledge with people. Helping them grow and avoid problems.
I don’t miss being stuck in Washington DC traffic or the streets trying to eat my car.
I do miss the prestige of The Washington Post nameplate. But hopefully, I’ll have enough time to be proud of the one I create for myself now.
Boring
“What bores you?” So ask the daily writing prompt.
If you enjoy life or are looking to enjoy it being bored isn’t much of a problem. I can almost always find something to entertain me.
But a few things do cause boredom.
Listening to self-absorbed people talk.
Listening to regurgitated material in a meeting or presentation that I already know.
Waiting rooms are now boring. Didn’t used to be because instead of everyone looking down at the cell phone in total silence – PEOPLE AT ONE TIME IN HISTORY USED TO TALK TO ONE ANOTHER.
I’ve been bored to death when called for the jury selection process.
I guess a repetitive job would be boring. Been so long since having one of those that I almost forgot.
NOTE: Baseball was boring but the rule changes they made have brought the sport back to being watchable again. Thank you. Go YANKEES
Simple
If everyone had the fix for what ails them, the world would be a happier place.
Looking for my fix. Maybe tomorrow.
Toddlers
Wonderful day spent with my grandson. I love them to death at this age, between 1 and 2. They are developing so fast and so cute at the same time. They can also leave you tired at the end of the day. But with a big smile.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Finding the irony in life and people can bring a smile to your face.
- Did I hear the pop of a baseball mitt?
- Keep looking for those windows of opportunity.
- My eyelids feel like old shades that won’t stay up.
A Coke and a Smile
What is your favorite drink? Asks the Daily Writing prompt.
That is like the proverbial fastball down the center of the plate. Coke, Cherry Coke, Coca-Cola, bottles, cans, fountain, BRING IT ON.
Now truth be told, I try to limit myself to 1 a day. Maybe 2 if I’ve been really good. I’ve always drank a ton of them but in the last few decades pounding 6-8 of them a day led me to being heavier than was healthy.
So combined with some healthier eating, I’m down to a pretty ideal weight for my height. But if I could, I’d drink these all day long. They are the most refreshing drink to me.
Gimmie all your lovin’
I hadn’t listened to some ZZ Top in a while and it was a nice treat to trigger some good memories. We saw them a few years ago at Pier 6 in Baltimore. They still rocked the house. Of course, Dusty has departed and anytime a lifelong band member passes it’s never the same.
That song title made me wonder if anyone does “Give You All Their Lovin’.”
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Tomorrow is the first car wash of the year. I have to desalt the old Chevy before it gets eaten.
- I’m in a writing frame of mind.
- It was a wild kingdom in the yard this morning. A fox, 2 hawks, 4 deer, numerous other birds and squirrels. Probably that way and more every day, I just don’t see it.
- I hope the Terps can get a victory tonight.
Favorite people
The Daily Writing prompt asks – Who are your favorite people to be around?
I’m a fortunate person. I got lots of people. There are so many it’s hard to give everyone all the attention they deserve.
My best friend and better half of course is #1. She is the love of my life. Next are my children and grandchildren.
I’m blessed with some very good friends, some so close they are family. Many of them actually and that has made life very special also. There are two special ones and we have been together for so many special moments and for each other through many many decades that we are brothers.
But there are more that I feel related to in special ways. From long-term work experiences that developed and continued into special relationships long after the work ended and continue to this day. To old friends from my youth that gather every so often.
I have a few relatives I like and spend time with. And my sister when she’s available.
I like being at the University of Maryland basketball game when there are 17,000 other rabid Maryland fans in attendance and the Terps are winning.
And sometimes I’m my favorite person to be around. Like the times I feel I need to get away by myself and point the Miata with the top down towards the beach and take a day to listen to the wind and music, the sound of the waves, the laughter of kids and families on the beach, and enjoy a cherry ice cream soda by myself at Dumsers.
Logistical Day
Today was not a day for my creative endeavors, but it was a very productive day. Tons of family planning for trips were made after exhausting searches and coordinating schedules. It’s also tax season so gathering all that info has been almost completed, mostly by my better half but I contributed several things also.
A haircut was squeezed in this morning, some financial planning this evening, and family and friend communications. Two of those were very important because of close friends with ill family members. A good reminder of how precious life is.
This is a packed week and may be a good test for me to see how much creativity I can cram into a few minutes here and there. A few days with grandchildren, a day of automotive and power equipment repairs, bank and financial appointments, some home repairs, and doctor appointments to make.
Taking advantage of time is so important. Like right now I’m multitasking by listening to some music, editing photos, writing a blog, and making a few prints, before getting back to a few chores.
Could it be, nah, don’t tease me, weatherman. What is this string of 60+ degree days next week and SUN you talk about? It’s got me smiling already and it’s a week away but I can’t help myself. I’ve had it with winter and the snow that is still on the ground and night temps in the 20s.
I’m ready to cut loose in so many ways. Warm up the roads and tires for some cruising. To find my shorts and tee shirts and walking/running shoes. To step onto the porch or deck with bare feet and feel the warmth. Hell, I might just peel the shirt off next week and start working on the tan. Hell YEAH.
Because sunshine and warm weather just inspire me to be outside. Plus the faster it warms up the faster my local snowball stand will thaw out, open, and no longer will look like the shot below.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Just when you’re ready to give up, DON’T.
- Things take time. Good things take more time usually.
- Upbeat music, upbeat thoughts.
- Let me go charge those camera batteries before I forget and get caught short tomorrow. Cold takes a toll on them when outside for a while it seems.
Favorite Footwear
Daily writing prompt
Tell us about your favorite pair of shoes, and where they’ve taken you.
My favorite pair of “shoes” are my flip flops and they always take me to a peaceful and happy place. Be it at the beach or around the house and outside. Yeah, I guess I’m stretching it a bit with the definition of shoes but they are my choice if warm enough.
I know these aren’t the most supportive shoes, your feet are dirty by the end of the day, and you can stub your toes good. If you have toe issues, you should avoid them. Not good to run in or on stairs. But on a very hot sandy beach, it’s the best. On the boardwalk or porch watching a sunset.
But the pair above has been special. They have taken me through some rough days. I wear them on vacations and when around the house but not working on it, or the yard. Like on the deck or on my way to the hammock.
When these flip-flops are on my feet, my mind is in a good place.
Thank you
To the road crews of the county and state, who keep our streets safe, I say thank you. That is a tough job and one that is very important.
Well as week 7 of retirement comes to an end, I find that time is going even faster than it did when working. I guess that means I’m having a good time. Doesn’t feel like it at times though. Mostly because of logistical chores and tasks.
But those are mostly complete and time for other things will present itself.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Pizza for breakfast isn’t just for the young, we seniors enjoy it also.
- Can’t believe it’s been a decade since a friend passed.
- Why does communication with some people seem such a chore?
- Maybe Trump should put a pair of his new sneakers on. He’s on a run from Justice.
Best gift
So the daily prompt would like me to “Share one of the best gifts you’ve ever received.”
I’ve probably said before that my children are the best gift I ever received. Having children wasn’t easy for us, as it is for many people. So the appreciation and happiness for having a daughter and son is a gift that just keeps on giving.
To me people are gifts. My wife saying yes to my offer of marriage was a gift. My friends keeping my spirits up is a gift. My work friends making the job fun is a gift. And how could I forget pets who are family members that we didn’t know were special gifts?
Photo by Mike Hartley
UCLA of the East
Charles “Lefty” Driesell passed away today and that has a lot of Maryland Basketball fans with heavy hearts. Lefty put Maryland Basketball on the map and made it a National Power. He was intense, exciting, animated, and a winner at many institutions.
I loved his famous foot stomp on the sidelines when things weren’t going right. Or coming out of the tunnel before the games with the double V for Victory salute with both hands to the crowd which would go wild about him.
He could get Cole Field House rocking like no other. I first attended a game the year before he became a coach and I’ve been going ever since. I watch Maryland basketball religiously because of him. I can still remember his first big victory over South Carolina.
I hope they fill the stadium today and that the moment of silence is followed with a giant roar of thanks to the legendary coach.
Articles about Lefty
Da Budget
In short, my approach to budgeting is to spend less than I take in and be able to save some along the way. We never really came up with a budget. We make all big decisions together and fortunately alike in our short and long term goals and what we spend regularly.
We might have done better along the way if we looked at our expenses closer but we are pretty frugal so there isn’t a lot of waste so the extra time doing that wouldn’t have yielded a great return.
But now we are into our senior years. The paychecks from the job that pays the bills stopped coming a little over a month ago. We are looking into the budget again obviously.
Our approach will be just as it always has been. We will talk, decide on priorities and fun, and set the path.
Early shoot
I got outside before sunrise today. Felt good but a little too cool for my liking. I knew it was going to get windy and blow the snow off the trees so I wanted to get out early.
Shots around in Ellicott City and Woodstock this morning.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I have to work on my patience.
- No pitchers and catchers reporting in Maryland today.
- That fine line between wet feet and dry is the height of your boots.
- My back is sending pain signals earlier than usual.
Right up our alley
Keeping my emotional happiness at a high level each day is the key to more productivity. It makes the moments more special, the creative juices flowing, the health better, and a smile on my face. Therefore more is accomplished, and it just creates an ongoing cycle of feel-good.
Yesterday wasn’t that day. But today is starting much better.
Dinner and a Maryland basketball game with a best friend Wednesday night was a great way to spend an evening, especially with a comeback victory by the Terps. And then some great conversation, laughs, story trading, and family updates.
Followed that up with both my best friends on Thursday night with a great happy hour or two or three. Last night I just kept my behind inside and fell asleep early like I had planned.
I was wondering how long it would take for weekends to lose their significance being I’m not doing the traditional workweek any longer. I think it’s starting to change now because I’m starting to lose the distinction from other days in the week.
So about a month and a half, when weekdays and weekends started to run together. That’s not too bad. At least I still know what day of the week it is. I wonder how long before I start to lose that distinction.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- A day of rest is needed. I believe Sunday looks good.
- Dogs wear me out.
- I feel the need to do something special tonight.
- Anger management – Working on it. A lot better than I used to be but one can always improve.
Respect
Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you? So asks the daily writing prompt.
I believe I’m patriotic. I vote every election. I respect the service of our military members greatly. I honor their service often. I respect the flag and our constitution. I didn’t make it to the second line of this before tears filled my eyes looking at a picture of my parents who are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
I spend some time there so I see the pain the ultimate sacrifice leaves on families.
Having grown up in a military family I was taught respect. My fathers last station was Bethesda Naval Hospital. He passed when I was young but with our medical coverage we continued to go to that hospital. That timeframe of 61-74, I spent some time at that hospital. It was one where injured service members were returning from Vietnam with horrible injuries.
I was very young and the sacrifice of these people was front and center for me. How could it not be, seeing young men missing limbs or bodies/heads disfigured by war. Prosthetics were what looked to be in their infancy stage and many just didn’t have any to use.
A vague memory of being startled the first few times seeing a person missing limbs or worse and my Mom having a talk with me about not looking away but making eye contact, nodding and smiling. That it would make them feel better.
Opinion – With the WWII generation all but gone, and the Korea and even Vietnam era vets ranks getting thinner and thinner, I believe our country is forgetting what sacrifice is. I wonder if we could actually pull together in a crisis like the country did in WWII?
Opinion 2 – I respect every other citizen of this country and their right to also vote.
Sun to Snow
Like the day itself, the longer it goes the more I feel like a shadow of myself. Tomorrow morning those trees will be as white as that wall behind them with snow.
I’m hoping to drum up the fortitude to face the cold tonight and do some photography. We will see how that old front-wheel drive Chevy does.
The other day I wrote illuding to switching insurance companies and referred to someone not being on my side. Well, today since they screwed with me after I canceled the policy by taking another deduction from my bank days after the policy was canceled. This has now pissed me off and cost me time. So Nationwide you are now named as my piss poor past insurance company so there is no mistake as to who I could be referencing the other day.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I could use a new office chair. So says my back and backside.
- Looks like Comrade Trump is having another bad day. Karma baby.
- Read hard, listen hard, question hard, learn.
- Getting my photo library in order is a taller order than I thought.
- Dogs are nuts.
Take me Home
The song Take Me Home came on last night as I started the car to head home from one of my best friends. It brought a smile to my face with that warm thought on a cold night.
I don’t believe I could be comfortable in another home at this point. This place has become so much a part of me that I can’t imagine moving.
Moving would hurt my children I think. I always remember going to my Mom’s house as an adult and there is just something about wandering around the house you grew up in. I can see their comfort level when they come to visit to this day.
We hope to live out our days together here. I hope we can make that dream possible. Because it will always be home.
I’m eventually going to have to hire someone to shovel/plow the driveway though.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Music moves me to move.
- Time to change the look of my office and workroom today.
- I’ve got to start pushing myself a little harder in my new profession. I’m not satisfied with the results in the first 45 days.
- Time for some snow shooting tonight. Now where did I leave my snow boots?
Fractured laws
Have you ever unintentionally broken the law? Asks the daily writing prompt.
As Eddie Murphy said in Beverly Hills Cop. “I may have fractured a law or two as a kid”
I guess I never thought about the jaywalking I was doing at night in DC when I would cross the streets at night because there wasn’t traffic. It wasn’t like the daytime where you had to use crosswalks and it was still dangerous.
We didn’t know pulling the cars up and using there lights to play night basketball wasn’t legal.
That makes all the other times intentional. Because there is a phase that goes “ignorance of the law is no excuse. “
As Sergeant Shultz used to say “I know nothing, nothing”
Hearts Out
A Happy Valentine’s Day to all. We used to get caught up in the excitement of the day when we were younger. I remember the pressure and feeling like I didn’t get it right some years ago. As we aged, and grew wisdom, we knew it was more important to celebrate the spirit of the day throughout the year and not focus so much on an overpriced commercialization of Love in one day.
Yes, it’s fun to get your better half some flowers or take her to dinner or a gift of her liking, but it can be a waste of money to do it for this day. Everything is overpriced, over-crowded, and overdone.
Some years ago we just started taking a night away someplace local, but on another evening than Valentines Day. I like getting her flowers or treating her unexpectedly. It’s just as important to do this throughout the year as it is today.
Little tokens of love each day, that’s the best gift.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I seem to get more excited at the prospect of each new day. Appreciation is a good feeling.
- The sound of that cold wind outside is not consistent with the warm sunshine coming through the window. Sort of like a head fake in basketball where I’ll be sailing into the clutches of winter.
- I had two bags of the Conversation Hearts candy in my hands yesterday. I stood there and put them back down. My better half said she was proud. I’m sitting here thinking I should have bought them.
- Pain is the winner again, despite a strong start to the day.
The Box
The Daily writing prompt asks “If there was a biography about you, what would the title be?”
Ah, another reflection on life. The title I first thought of was “The Box” so I’m going with that, which I’ll explain. I started thinking about my life and how someone would look at it. And I thought about the different sides or panels of me and my life, therefore The Box.
I thought about the first decade filled with turmoil of world events, turmoil in personal life and so much contrast in what I was seeing and experiencing as an infant and youth. This is the bottom panel of the box.
The 4 sides of the box are: The Doctor – The Husband/Father – The Professional – The Foundation/Building
The Doctor – A wild period but surprisingly a period that instilled a lot of responsibility and work ethic. But it was out of control a lot. Which made for some great times.
The Husband/Father – What a learning curve. Thankfully my better half is a patient person and we and the kids survived. The most wonderful experience of my life.
The Professional – The work life in newspapers and IT. What a ride. Filled with great times and some tough ones but out of it came a lot of wonderful personal relationships and a sense of accomplishment.
The Foundation/Building – What my better half and I build together. Through good times and bad. But a common goal that was a good foundation.
The top of the box is like a jack in the box springing open – We made it to our senior years. No small feat, being some of the medical challenges we both faced. We are still together and in love after many years and many challenges. We worked very hard for a very long time. We have been blessed with grandchildren.
And just like when the jack in the box opens the arms usually spread wide. And that is us looking forward to what isn’t written yet. I mean I’ve only been retired for 44 days so I better have a lot of chapters to expand on. Lots of love to share, lots of things to create and share, and of course lots of good times to share.
Hibernation
I’m going to admit it, I’m a winter wimp, if there is a choice to go outside for almost anything, and it’s cold I’ll choose to stay in. Especially when it’s really cold like earlier this January. I can hold my own in the summer heat while those around me melt. I just need to make it through a few more weeks and the difficult part of the year will be behind me.
I can’t stay warm in the winter. Anything under 40 degrees is not comfortable outside. I’d prefer it be over 50 which is really my minimum tolerance level.
So a wet, rainy, snowy morning and windy afternoon is a very good reason to stay inside today. But duty calls and a few errands must be run but that will be this afternoon after the flakes stop.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Clearing clutter slightly faster than creating it is the key.
- You don’t need to change your location to change your view.
- I’m on another roll. Lots done before the noon hour today.
- I think I have a creative way of learning portraiture.
Doing?
What were your parents doing at your age? So ask the daily writing prompt.
That one required a little thought and addition. My father never made it close to my age. Passed decades before it. After being in the Navy during WWII and Korea and expeditions on Operation Deep Freeze, I won’t forget the sacrifices he made that provided me and others our freedom.
My Mom, still a widow was doing some part-time work at card stores, traveling, and doing volunteer work for the Red Cross at Bethesda Naval Hospital.
Then again she might have been fighting one of the many medical challenges she had in her senior years. But that didn’t stop her from helping others and when she wasn’t under the weather, she was out busy doing something.
Now what was Mom really doing? She was busy being loving, generous, and kind to people. She would help people, donate to charities, and always look for the good in people. She had a great smile. She was warm. She believed someone always had it worse off even when she was suffering. Not that she didn’t notice every ache and pain, but she also acknowledged many had them and worse. She spent great effort and time loving her family and friends.
As time has passed, those examples aren’t front and center as they once were. Sometimes when our parents come up in memories our kids might say something like the above, and I’ll smile. I also know as time passes their recollections fade even faster because they are shorter.
So I’m going to try to remember those many good qualities my parents had and the ones my mother and father-in-law also had and keep them going so our children take the positive and good ones and pass them to their children.
Progress, pizza, party
We’re off to a new week. A good start for a Monday if I must say so. Kept at things today and accomplishments started to stack up like a pile of freshly cut wood. So why not keep the spirit going into the evening. I’ve got 2-3 hours left in me.
We treated ourselves to a Ledo Pizza after running errands. It was great to dig into a pizza that doesn’t cut corners. I’ve been to a number of locations in the state but our most regular is in Normandy in Ellicott City.
Always cooked to perfection, good service and so good. I was thinking about being healthy but hey, it was pizza day and nobody has the pre-cooked bacon like they do so what the hell. Heart attack in a pie. Well it was a large with half mushroom for my better half. The other side was the heart blocker.
This evening I guess I’m having myself a little party. Trying to let music be my guide in creating some new pieces. I’ve had to move to the headphones because my better half has decided rest is important.
Rumor of some snow around 4am so maybe some very late night shooting is in order. Burr. I’ll have to set the alarm for that one. But till then I think I’ll crank up the printer and work on a family wall of images I started.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I had a day with each of my grandchildren this past week and it was wonderful. It takes a lot to raise children and parents need all the assistance they can get.
- That rolling piano style of Billy Powell really catches my ear.
- My eyes are just being opened to all the wonderful things to see and read. Better late than never.
- A thank you again to the person who said to just go ahead of them in the pharmacy line at Walgreens today.
- Living outside reality can smack you hard someday.
What I’ve been missing
This was the first Super Bowl I’ve watched from start to finish in the last decade. Working Sunday nights for those years kind of made it just another thing I was missing out on. It was a competitive game so it was fun to see from kickoff to the end of overtime.
Photo by Shirley Hartley
I had just turned 9 in the photo above, we never got to watch a Super Bowl together because he passed just a month before the first one was played. I’m glad I got to watch a few with my son.
Another milestone also in the form of a holiday Monday next week. If a holiday fell on a Monday we were working. Also the Sunday night before the long holiday weekend. I was kind of giddy being off New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. And then off for MLK Day and now Presidents Day.
I find myself smiling and rested on a Monday now instead of exhausted. I look forward to holiday weekends knowing I’m available and can be at events with family and friends.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I thought it was a better-than-average year for Super Bowl commercials.
- The more I accomplish each day, the better I feel.
- Decisions are just a part of every day. Making the right ones makes the day easier.
- A day full of errands, I think a pizza reward is in order.
Laws
The Daily writing prompt asks: If you had the power to change one law, what would it be and why?
If I were to change one thing is that it would be to keep the violent offenders and rapist in for their full sentences at least. To hell with early parole and that good behavior bull getting their sentence cut.
We are a nation of laws. But we seem to still be troubled. We are the solution, we have the ability to change small and big things.
The powerful and wealthy have their justice and the other end gets another form. If laws aren’t applied equally, justice is slanted. We can right the ship if we try.
Super
The day doesn’t have to be Super Bowl Sunday to be super. But we will go with the theme and spirit of the day to keep the positive attitude rolling. Starting the day with some inspirational music to get rolling on some creative endeavors.
A cloudy day ahead with the winds picking up. And that means I better get the strap on the car cover this morning before they get gusting the next few days. And with the temperatures getting milder again I’m going to hibernate for a bit.
I’m still getting used to being off for events like the Super Bowl and holidays. And who knows what might happen over the next 2 months with College Basketball coming to a peak with conference tournaments and then March Madness. I guess we will discover if someone can overdose on basketball or not this season.
So pick out your favorite chair today and get comfortable for the game. Or take your place in front of the snack table and munch out. I think I might get on the treadmill for a few miles during the game to burn off a few calories I’m sure I’ll put on today.
I think I’ll work on some drawing today and step away from the computers for a bit. That is one of the nice things about having a few different hobbies. If I get writer’s block I can edit photos. If I get tired of cropping, toning, and printing I can draw. If I get tired of looking at 2 dimensions, I can grab my camera and look at 3. If I tire of pressing the shutter I’ll grab the Dremel tool.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd is one of my favorite songs.
- I like having a candle lit in the office.
- Every once in a while I think about letting my hair grow long again.
- I don’t have to have a business to be a professional.
Dream Home
Write about your dream home. So ask the daily writing prompt.
The sun comes in my bedroom window in the morning and I watch it set from my front porch.
It has loving pets.
A home that raised children and grandchildren and has the height marks on the doorways as evidence.
It has a brick front with a warming entrance.
A deck that gets both morning and afternoon sun and a nice breeze. And large enough for family meals.
A large bay window to overlook nature and wildlife.
A basketball hoop in the driveway.
A fireplace in the family room.
A basement office with an outside door and window.
A large front yard and a sloping hill in the back.
A roof that keeps us dry and a furnace that keeps us warm.
A pool to cool and play in during the summer.
One where laughter and joy can be heard.
This is pretty much our home from the mid-80s. It’s not much, but it’s home. A 3 bdrm Rancher, the pool was filled in years ago after the kids grew up because it needed too many repairs. I’ve always longed for a garage but never had one. So I would add that to this dream home I live in.
Yeah, it would be nice to have that dream home on the beach. But my family and friends don’t live at the beach so there you go.
Having a huge dream home of the imagination is nice but in reality, you either have a ton of money for a staff to maintain it or you become a slave to it. And a small home on an acre is more than enough for this guy.
A lock on love
Just a few more shots from the mid week shoot.
Crossing Into Love City. Yeah I love this little town. Hell, my wife is from here. Got my first real job in newspapers in this town. Started our own newspaper in this town decades later with two wonderful partners. My dentist and friend is on Main Street. It’s great exercise to walk the town. I have enjoyed many walks and meals with family and some of my closest friends.
When troubled or feeling good I go there to walk, or sit or photograph or explore. Or just to chow down of a roast beef sandwich from Duchess up the road while watching the Patapsco flow by.
The town changes looks so much during the various seasons that I always feel like I see something new. It’s my next project to put together the shots of this over the years and start to fill in a few things I might have missed.
And being its near Valentines day there seemed to be some symbols of love around town.
In some ways it will always be part of my home. We got married in town. Our first apartment was just up the road in Normandy Woods.
It’s been a place for engagement photos or even wedding events/photos for decades.
A town where some have generations of people living there or surrounding hills. Not as much as when I first ventured into town in the early 70s, but a good friend of mine who grew up in town, still keeps in touch with a few long time residents.
I bet it’s the place where you see more people holding hands than other spots in the county.
When floods devastated the town from Agnes in the 70s to the 2 once in a thousand year floods a few years ago it ripped a piece of a lot of peoples hearts out. I was in town the morning of the two most recent ones. A family walk from the home my wife grew up in to downtown EC the day of the 2018 flood.
The second one I was out photographing along College Avenue and on the way home early that morning I stopped at the corner of Main and Maryland Avenue by the old Phoenix Restaurant. As I pulled onto Main it was quiet and I just raise my camera over the windshield and snapped a shot of what would be destroyed later that day.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I don’t remember feeling so indifferent about a Super Bowl before. I don’t know if its the gambling or the league treating the players like old Roman gladiators, totally indifferent to there health regarding the brain injuries and that settlement they came too is appearing to be a joke. So NFL, take the game and shove it where the sun doesn’t shine.
- Finally realized some sad truths recently.
- Time to put the cover on the car again for the coming rains.
Nope
When you can’t see all the steps to even count them to get to the front door, no thank you. Beautiful home and porch though in Old Ellicott City. And the view is probably great. Maybe there is a back drive up entrance? Then again, taking the trash to the curb might be an effort.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Dear Mr. Fantasy by Traffic is a great early morning song.
- When the choice is to take time to get organized or keep creating, I’ll take the creating all the time.
- I’m learning a bruised tailbone takes a while to heal.
- It’s a “More Cowbell” type of day.
- I had the top down on the Miata yesterday. Wind and sun in the hair again. Life is good.
Reactions
You get some great, amazingly fantastic news. What’s the first thing you do? Asks the daily writing prompt question.
Wow, that is actually a tough one to answer. I was trying to think back to times where great and fantastic news was delivered to me and discovered I have two types of first reactions to this. I guess as I have aged this first is more prevalent.
When this has happened it has caused me to just pause for a moment, to close my eyes, be appreciative, give thanks, smile and think of sharing the news with loved ones.
The second one is more explosive joy of my youth. Sort of like the Michael Jordan fist pump after hitting the game winning shot, or as I recall a time or two just letting out a “YEAH” yell as loud as I can.
Remember that Waking up each morning is GREAT, AMAZINGLY FANTASTIC NEWS.
Hard
It’s hard to keep your head above water sometimes. I feel like I’m drowning from time to time. But wisdom has taught me survival techniques. Making use of one of them right now. Music is changing my spirit as I type. Listening to an old tune from the Doobie Brothers “Dangerous” and its an upbeat one that reminds me of motorcycle riding days. Followed that with “The Doctor” which is another upbeat song to smile to.
I don’t have much energy left in the day. The granddaughter can burn through my reserves without missing a beat. But she is back with her mother tonight and my body is sending me urgent messages to get horizontal soon.
But my mind feels like there is unfinished business and ideas to work on. I did some shooting this afternoon I should download and edit, I haven’t worked on my books yet today. I owe a couple people emails.
Well let me flip a coin and see if we work or rest. There is it, we WORK. Gentlemen, start your engines.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- When you are inspired, accomplishments are the byproduct.
- RUSH is a Rush.
- I have some leftover business cards from the job that once paid the bills. I think I’ll make personal ones on the other side to hand out when needed. Little pieces of artwork.
- When I stop learning, someone unplug me.
- I have no idea why clutter seems to multiply around me but it does.
Careful
There are a lot of people you want to watch you step with. Especially when a foundation of trust hasn’t been established. And even when you think trust is there, many will break it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Feels good to get the cameras out each day again.
- I’m going to try to eat healthy today. That cheesesteak and tacos yesterday were a nice treat but don’t want to make those a daily habit.
- Far too little love in the world.
- Back roads are a lot more friendly than the highways around here.
Been a while
Are there any activities or hobbies you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time? Interesting question from the daily writing prompt.
Probably more than a few. I used to collect coins and stamps but gave up on those a a youth. I used to enjoy bowling but haven’t in many years. I used to play a good bit of basketball but in the last 2 decades it’s been a while between buckets.
This area has outgrew its roads and made motorcycling an activity I gave up to live longer. I used to shoot skeet fairly well in my younger days but haven’t thrown those clay pigeons in a long time. I do miss that sport.
I have roots in this town
Decided I needed to do some walking outside yesterday and skipped the treadmill. So I took the go cart (Miata) out to Ellicott City, parked at the upper lot, wound my way up to the old courthouse and down by the old fire station. Back up the street to the Wine Bin and back down the street to the Trolley Stop and admire the river for a bit and then back up the street through a couple of back ways and lots.
I sat outside the old Times building and the Stone building at the bottom of the hill by the river which both used to be my offices. But really I went down to see some major changes in the towns where buildings are being torn down for the new flood tunnels and park area I believe.
Lower end of EC. I’d like to see this town bounce back in a big way in the future. Photo by Mike Hartley
The next time I’m there I’m going to try that Milkshake shop called The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar.
It’s also been a bit since having a meal in town so I’m going to have to change that also. More photos from the shoot coming later. Busy morning ahead.
Sweet tooth
What’s your favorite candy? asks the daily writing prompt.
Short answer – Brachs Marshmellow Easter Eggs. I don’t think they make them anymore.
But it does varies by season. Like now its those little conversation hearts you see during Valentines. Next month I’ll be eating jelly beans and chocolate malt balls.
Summertime some Smarties appear for my birthday and the occasional box of Nerds during the summer to sprinkle on my snowballs every once in a while. Starburst or skittles are a nice summer candy. And I can’t forget the occasional pack of Sweet Tarts.
In the fall we have a M&M season along with other assorted chocolates. Of course the scary Reeses Cups for Halloween.
The winter we move onto caramels and cherry candy canes. Maybe some Cherry Hershey Kisses. Or Krackle bars are good also. And I almost forgot Butterfingers.
The Vigil night with the boys is the bite size Snickers bars to end the evening just before we part company each week.
A break from
Do you need a break? From what? So asks the daily writing prompt.
Yes I need a break.
I need a break from doctors. Their offices, their waiting rooms, their imaging facilities, their hospitals, their billing departments and insurance companies.
I need a break from winter. I’m cold and I hate being cold.
I need a break from people who lose their minds behind the wheel and drive like A-holes. They are tempting me to start a new career as Dr. Karma.
I need a break from all the lies, conspiracy theory’s, anger and hate in politics.
I need a break from responsibilities. I friggen retired last month and I’m waiting for that parrothead lifestyle to begin.
But always remember. YOU make your own breaks in LIFE.
Go Green
Know what you want and go for it. Yesterday I took a small pleasure cruise to get gas. Way too cold for the top down but a nice sunny day none the less.
Today I’m going for a longer cruise. Because I need to get out and do some photography. And of course enjoy some back roads.
We are in the home stretch now for winter coming to a close. I know, it’s too early to celebrate but by the end of this month the sun will be up earlier and it will be staying light later and the sun will begin to warm in the afternoons.
No I’m not putting the snow shovels away just yet but I’m anticipating that warmth that draws me outside again. And down to the beach for the car weekends in May and October.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Heading out with the camera feels good.
- Life is about how many smiles you can have. Fake ones don’t count.
- Lots of goals, little time.
- My tailbone still hurts from that fall.
- Life – having a good time despite those working against it.
Invent
The Daily writing prompt asks what The most important invention in your lifetime is….
I got to admit I had to go look up what has happened during my lifetime to get the most accurate answer I could. I see birth control pill was invented the year I was born, as well as the 3 point seat belt. That one must have taken a while to catch on because as a youth I don’t remember wearing a seat belt till I was a young teenager when I started driving myself.
But its hard to choose as I look back over time between medical or energy or communication inventions which have been significant. Some medical advances have probably kept me living till today.
But then I stumbled on the Smoke Detector. In the early 70s the single station detectors were ready to be sold for homes. I believe hardwired ones became standard in the late 70s. While slow to take off they are in homes in this country in the high 90% range from what some searches have been saying.
The number of lives saved and injuries prevented must be significant and its a gift that keeps on saving people and property. Proof that small things can bring big results.
Starting line
And were off into a new week. They sure do roll around fast. Seems like the sun rises on a Monday morning, you blink your eyes and it’ setting on a Sunday night. Last week flew by. Way too much extraneous items intruding on my goals.
But we are off to a good start today. And this week looks like it has opportunities to succeed.
Each moment is an opportunity that is to be grabbed. Today is a good example. I missed the opportunity to do some photography this morning. But I did seize the time to write and organize and upload dozens of images to my site.
I will just have to double my effort on Tuesday morning and get out early.
It might not be shorts weather yet but the sun was feeling much stronger today and that boardwalk is calling me again.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Two people close to me are reuniting now.
- Boy am I glad I don’t have to do the beltways around Baltimore or DC during rush hours.
- In some ways I feel lazy, but there isn’t a need to stay up 20 hours a day any longer so I guess 16 is a few less to be productive in. I feel a hell of a lot better each day though.
- Life is a solo act. It might not seem like it but we are all alone.
Ideal Day
The Daily writing prompt ask us today to “Describe your most ideal day from beginning to end.”
I would wake about 5am, grab a Coke and wander out the front door to the beach with a chair and camera and watch the sunrise over the Atlantic ocean, listen to the waves, and smell the salt air. Back inside to prepare a grand breakfast for my better half, my children and grandchildren.
Right back outside after eating with the grandchildren to teach them how to do sand sculptures. Quick dip in the ocean and back to the home overlooking the ocean with one of those infinity pools (never been in one) that overlooks the ocean in front of the house. Swim and play with family.
Spend some quality time with my better half then hit the front porch that has one of those nice swings or a two person hammock that we just watch the family play on the beach for a few minutes. Then hop on a Harley and spend an hour or two cruising up and down the coastal highway. More beach time soaking up rays and listening to laughter of the family and children.
Lunch is a mixture of steamed crabs, Tony’s pizza and maybe some Thrashers fries. Finishing with cherry ice cream soda from Dumser’s Dairyland. Back to the beach and pool. Spend the afternoon seeing extended family and friends who have strolled by because we rented the entire area for them and their families for the day.
Out to dinner at one of the fine bayside resturants like The Hobbit or Fagers Island or Saltwater 75 with the family and watch the sunset together. Walk the beach hand in hand. Let the kids play games on the boardwalk and do some rides. Revel in their smiles.
As the family settles in, meet up with the boys and their hotrods and go for a drive in a 69 Camaro with a 427, blower and of course a 4 speed transmission. Come back and grab my better half for a moonlit walk on the beach. Sit in porch swing together listening to the waves and feeling a warm summer night breeze eating too much Fishers popcorn as she falls asleep in my lap and I sit quietly till the sun rises again.
Music would permeate the day. There would be no TV’s or smartphones or computers.
Life and perspective
How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life? Asks the daily writing prompt.
If I were to choose a one word answer to that question it would be “Profoundly.”
Significant events like deaths, early in my life changed me. Some of it made me stronger and other ways it took away confidence and security.
Time changes things over time. For instance the importance of the job over the years took on the shape of a bell curve over my career for me. Early on it wasn’t everything, then it really took off and it did become more important, and then more than it should have. And in the last few years many other things became priorities than the work being done for someone else.
Events give you experience and time gives you wisdom. For instance there is a lot of joy in creating a child. And that joy turns into a lot of wonderful smiles, memories and love in my heart and mind having helped raising them.
The passage of time changes all of us. We either adapt or not.
Every day you have the potential for events to change your perspective. It doesn’t have to be something drastic. It can be simple, from something someone says to you or how look at relationships in different ways from actions or inactions of others.
Directionless
I just can’t seem to get started today. A few things on my mind. I’m going to have to find the right lube to get the gears moving again. I’ve gotten better in recent years in turning around difficult days. Practice overcoming pain is a good exercise. But the things that bother me mentally sometimes are harder to shake.
I need to relax and just keep my eyes open, life is happening all around me. Just the simple act of walking through a parking lot can yield results. I might venture out later tonight and try my hand at some evening exposures. I need a lot more practice in that area. Plus I have some pages to fill for a nocturnal project I’ve started.
I was thinking about doing some writing but I’m not sure I’m going down that rabbit hole today when I feel directionless. Hopefully something will spark me later to at least finish the 2 pieces I started earlier today.
There it is, I stumbled on an idea and task and direction that made me smile. So off I go because it doesn’t involve a computer. I’ll return later with the daily writing prompt reply and maybe other inspiration.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I’m not sure if we change or we just see things more clearly over time.
- There are a number of things from my youth I’m glad I left there. But there are some I’m glad I brought along to my later years.
- I looked at a couple of Ocean City webcams today of the boardwalk/beach and if you can ignore the month we are in you can imagine its summer with the sunshine today.
- Recognizing World Cancer Day by getting negative test results. Life is good.
To Do List
The Daily writing prompt asks what is something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.
The first question is which to-do list are you inquiring about. I have several. My photography list, my art list, my home and yard list, my personal list to name a few.
I’m getting better at knocking things off the lists I’ve made. It helps me stay organized and avoid conflicts and maximize my time. I’ve learned to break some items down into manageable tasks.
The one thing that I haven’t gotten done in years is to carve a path and grade it with stone to my lower back yard so I can get the tractor down there instead of push cutting that hill. Maybe this year?
There is one more thing that I have been slack on getting to, and that is visiting my parents gravesite in recent months. I’ll have to cure that soon.
In Rhythm
When life comes together and you feel that inspiration or surge of energy or clearness of thought its a great start to any day. And it feels like one of those great ones today. Health is everything and the morning has been good.
I was going to say its good to have appreciation for the simple things but health is anything but simple.
Life has turned into one endless series of tests. Ones that results sometime cause such relief, excitement and exultation like an umpire calling strike 3. Turning to the side, dropping to one knee and extending his left arm and then drawing it back while throwing the right fist forward to punch out the batter. (figuratively not physically)
And when the test results are the other way it completely changes your world. Things that were important a couple minutes before fade like a distant memory. Desires set aside years ago become priorities. Having had a few scares like that I’m focused on living those desires and dreams now.
But there are a few weeks each year that pending results kind of preoccupy my thoughts. I had gotten pretty good managing the daemons of the mind years ago after my first cancer, then a second cancer that didn’t go away after surgery and needed further treatment.
I thought I was free but test every 3, 6 or 9 months for years now tell me the doctors aren’t convinced.
Each day forward from there has been a sense of urgency never felt before. Desires to return to what I was I thought I might want to do in life before I took on a career in Newspapers. I was able to finally push work down the list. And a lot of other things.
My goal then was to make it to retirement and enjoy those years. So here we are and I enjoyed my first month immensely. I’m working hard at my passions. But here I am waiting for test results again. Trying to fight the instinct to stop creating and waste time wondering, worrying or wilting.
My thoughts become scattered. I sometime don’t finish listening to a song that I love before my mind will wander. I catch part of a conversation. I daydream and lose focus. A sudden onset of Attention Deficit Disorder.
The fight for control and to regain positive thoughts, creative energy and hard work. Because hard work in passions is good therapy for anything that ails you. So its back to work tonight I go.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Now that I’m reading more I enjoy moving my mothers bookmark along each time now.
- I miss playing ping-pong. I’m going to have to do something about that.
- When I listen to the Beatles music it takes me back to Art class in high school because our teacher would play them all day. I believe he used to start first period with “Here Comes the Sun” Thanks Mr. Perrine.
- When I listen to RUSH I miss two people. A good friend of ours, Dan and Neil Peart.
- A nice lunch out with my better half today.
Grill it
What is my favorite thing to cook ask the writing prompt of the day.
I like to cook most anything on a grill, meat, seafood, vegies and even some fruit like pineapple. But since it asks for a favorite I’ll go with Seafood.
This question reminds me I need to photograph some shrimp skewers the next time I grill them.
I have a great salmon marinade and love that on the grill also with some light smoke. Now I’m hungry.
Reminder – if you are fortunate enough to have a full stomach each day think of those who don’t and maybe make a donation to your local food bank please.
Ready again
After a few days of medical stuff, I’m FREE, just in time to kick off a new month and a new spirit. So off I go again to chart a new course. It’s been a very productive day for just regaining my energy again. We lost internet here for about an hour today, so I just substituted some reading.
I made some prints for a friend with a family member who isn’t well. I’ve worked on several prints for my family wall and hope to start my Ellicott City prints this evening.
Life has been good to me on this first day of the month. I’m declaring victory and calling it a day.
First computer
Write about your first computer. So asks the daily writing prompt.
I believe my first home computer was either an IBM 8086 or 8088, I had gotten from the job. I had touched computers at work before this but they were proprietary systems. But that IBM was my first home computer for a short time before switching.
That and a hand me down Mac Plus and its just kept going and going from there. Kind of fun to witness the growth of computers being an IT person, and at the same time working in the publishing industry and watching how that revolutionized it.
Having just finished my career and the pleasure of working on hundreds of UNIX servers from IBM, many running Oracle databases with storage systems from EMC and NetApp before I got out of that rat race and just became an Analyst (no on-call) for my last few years.
It was an incredible experience that I was lucky to catch a ride on in the timeframe it happened. It’s funny to remember back how slow those devices were in the beginning. If you sat a teenager in front of one now they would walk away from it in less than a minute because of its speed. Imagine if we had done that when they first came out.
An important lesson we learned back then. Good things come with patience.
Another lesson that has been somewhat lost is not giving up. We didn’t have the internet to find solutions. Hell the manuals were pretty incomplete and the limited numbers of people who knew anything at all were all scattered about without being able to connect. So we had to keep doing trial and error and learning from mistakes.
Even finding things the manufactures didn’t even know about along the way. And that is when you know you hit on something because engineers were all of a sudden available to you or mysteriously on site the next day sometimes.
I was blessed to work with many talented people along the way that helped and challenged me to be better all the time. And they have my sincere thanks.
Yes my hair did get longer, but its very short now and the beard is a bit grey. But I’m in better shape than that shot above, some 30+ years ago.
Sailing into February
As we close out the first month of 2024 I’m looking forward to a good month ahead. But I’m going to institute a few changes now that a lot of logistics that took an incredible amount of time in January are completed.
A few goals for the coming month:
- Stay out of the doctors offices.
- Get out each day and photograph.
- Create 3 posts a day on the blog.
- Read another book this month.
- Finish the pastel piece I started in Jan and begin another.
- Upload a few thousand image to my photo site.
- Complete a chapter in each book I’ve started to write.
- Finish carving for my son and granddaughter.
- Get an old vehicle running and sell it.
- Finish family wall of images.
- Start final large prints for the Ellicott City wall.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Good memories can be sustaining.
- There is always a great deal to learn.
- Every 5 years, for at least a day or two, nobody can call me full of crap.
- Sounds like the Orange One is upset at Taylor and her Swifties.
Fear
What’s the thing you’re most scared to do? What would it take to get you to do it? So asks the last question of the month.
Nothing scares me more than going to the doctor for test results of my last cancer check. I’ve heard bad news a couple times in the past and I’ve been lucky enough to pull through both. But every 3, 6, 9 or 12 months I get tested and have been for many years now.
It terrifies me that something might have spread or a new one develops. I’m pretty good about blocking things out between test but a week or two before my appointment with the doctor, I can’t get it out of my head.
Love of Life is what it takes to keep me going back and back.
Compliant desk
What do you complain about the most? So asks the next to last Bloganuary prompt.
Bad Drivers has to be my #1 complaint. It makes me absolutely nuts to see people do some of the things that put others lives in danger all for the sake of a car length ahead. A car is not just a transportation device, it’s a weapon. And just like with any weapon it needs to be treated with respect.
I’m trying to complain less and be thankful for the little things. Less stress is helping this along.
Word
Fewer words, more words, right words, wrong words. Today’s words – Petal Power.
I’m looking ahead to the months of these outside my front door. I know, I must be patient.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Time to pick up the pastels again.
- I’ll be glad when it’s Wednesday night.
- What a year for Baltimore sports teams. Finishing the regular season in first place and into the playoffs. And while both didn’t make it to the Series or Super, they had great years with great thrills for the city and fans. Hats off to the Ravens team, coaches, and organization.
- CBS Sunday Morning did a very nice tribute to Charles Osgood yesterday.
- I tried something new. I recorded the 49ers/Lions game and watched it early this morning. I figure I saved 2 hours instead of watching it live by fast-forwarding through all the talk and commercials. I’ve done it with basketball but the time savings aren’t as good as they are for football.
Hoops
What are your favorite sports to watch and play? Asks the Bloganuary writing prompt today.
I played a lot of baseball when I was really young. In my teens though I migrated to basketball and that has been my favorite for decades and is for both watching and playing. A hoop in my driveway, the ball in the closet by the front door ready for a nice day. March Madness is like hoop heaven. The University of Maryland are the team I support.
Basketball with its constant motion, running in so many directions, jumping constantly, diving on the floor and the physical aspects. Mentally it also takes a special discipline. Soccer is the only other sport that has the motion and that doesn’t have enough scoring for me.
Major League baseball made some significant rule changes that really sped up the game which it needed and made viewing much more enjoyable. I find myself watching less and less football. I used to enjoy some of the sports talk shows but no more. Too much emphasis on the gambling/point spreads/over under and whatever else they can think of to bet on.
I enjoy watching a lot of different sports BUT, gambling is on its way to ruining sports. Not that the NCAA didn’t get a jump on the pros by screwing up college athletics first. As usual greed and power will kill a good thing.
I think I’ll check out some local little leagues or local courts where the players play for the love of the game.
Looking Up
A change of perspective is always good from time to time. In one month I’ve had a huge change in perspective in many ways.
The first would be a change of professions. I’ve moved out of IT work and into the creative fields of Photography, Writing and other arts like carving, drawing and painting. I work on these every day now. They are my new work and love.
Changing how I take care of myself physically and mentally are underway. I’m maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to the equation. Doctors visits and tests are being honored. I’m getting better rest.
Having looked at reality a little harder I also feel a greater sense of urgency given my age and history. And that I’m using as daily inspiration to learn to do things professionally and even better than I once did for someone else.
I realize it might not be instant. I’ve got a lot to learn and a ton of work to do before I might get it figured out and right, but that day will come.
Things change, people change, we change.
Having exited night shift work my schedule is much more aligned with my better half’s. I love it but I can tell she appreciated the time to herself sometimes. But not having to be quiet while I slept in the mornings is a plus for her.
Freedom to pick and choose what day to do things and what time without someone else dictating a substantial part of the week is like having chains removed.
I think my friends are still adapting to the change of me no longer in the daily grind shoulder to shoulder with them. And its got their wheels turning about retirement.
As we age relationships change. I hear discussions of moves among friends and family. Even grandchildren grow up.
I change and I’m not sure how that will affect me and others. I’m trying to embrace it because I think the saying goes “the only constant in the world is change”
Random Thoughts of the Day
- January is not ending with my original plan. But Thursday starts a positive streak of production, I hope.
- Listening to my body, instead of ignoring it and punishing it. Hope its not too little too late.
- Going to be smarter in how I use my time in February.
- I’m going to finish one goal of reading a book this month. Next month will be a challenge, a longer book and shorter month to complete it.
Winner/Loser
What would you do if you won the lottery? So ask the Bloganuary question today.
I used to waste some minutes thinking about this. Sometimes when work was at its worst I’d allow myself to think about walking away and doing my own thing or just the other fantasies of life without financial concerns.
I just didn’t find it healthy for myself. Nothing against taking a wild chance once in a while if that makes you happy. I just thought the time and money would be better spent on appreciating what I do have and maybe helping someone else.
I try to avoid gambling as much as I can. I make a friendly small bet with my son on football games that after a whole season usually results in me losing $10-$30. I did have one successful year. I do that though to keep in touch and talk sports and some ribbing or bragging rights.
I will occasionally play. And by that I mean maybe 2-3 tickets a year. In recent times it hasn’t even been that much. I buy the family some scratch offs at Christmas but don’t play those either. But I realized giving money away to throw a slip of paper in the trashcan wasn’t much fun.
It’s good to know yourself before you start gambling. I’ve got an additive personality and I know I could quickly be in trouble if I started betting or playing lotteries. And then the horror stories you hear about the winners.
But to answer the question
- Set my family up for life.
- Take care of some good friends.
- Donate about half to charity.
- Smile and have a good time with my better half.
Perspective in a shovel
In some ways, I enjoyed shoveling this month. The exercise, cool air in the lungs, and snowflakes in the face. I looked across the street at a neighbor’s home knowing he was probably inside looking out wishing he was on his tractor with the plow doing his driveway and helping others as needed.
Unfortunately, he is in his 90s now and unable to get around much and his better half said he wasn’t doing well. A very nice man with a great smile. Always a wave and would take the time to chat for a few minutes if we were out together working. Yes, my better half and I did shovel them out along with another neighbor. But that isn’t the point.
I remember the year I had surgery one summer and for the first time in my life, I had to hire someone to cut the yard. I would look out as they cut and wanted to get back out there so bad on my mower and do it regardless that I despised wasting time on a mower. It was the first time in my life I wondered how many more cuts I would have the pleasure of doing. From that day forward I never looked at cutting the yard as a chore.
And now recently I thought about how many more times I would have the pleasure of shoveling my driveway. After not having snowed here in 2 years, getting back-to-back ones in a week was a change of pace but one that I have appreciated also. That was till my back reminded me that I was too old and should be done with a shovel and either get a snow blower or tractor.
We take a lot of things in life for granted for long periods till reality shakes us and we realize things are finite. Surrendering to those devices (equipment) also means my time with them may be limited. So enjoy life as you can, one shovel full at a time or one crank of the engine. You never know when you will be looking through that window at others outside.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I’ve been talking to myself a lot for a very long time. Maybe I need a new therapist.
- Fandom is a nice thing that can also go too far.
- I’ve been wasteful of time in the past, I regret that.
- The joy is in the work.
Books in my pile
What books do you want to read? So ask the Bloganuary question today.
I want to finish (the WAR of ART) by Steven Pressfield this weekend. Then onto (My Effin’ Life) by Geddy Lee of RUSH. Next is another book I got for Christmas (The 1998 Yankees) by Jack Curry. And maybe get back to (The Photographers Playbook) which is a compilation of 307 assignments and ideas.
I’ve been enjoying reading lately. Mostly because it’s finally things I like, instead of reading for work. I learn and that is fun.
Oh, another full disclosure. A book is something I hold in my hand. Yeah, I was able to transition from a traditional Newspaper to the Online version but it doesn’t feel right no matter how many years pass. But there aren’t enough days left for me to move to reading a book on a substance other than wood pulp. (paper)
Support your LOCAL BOOKSTORES.
Getting on
Getting on with life is sometimes challenging. It’s how you balance all those inputs and needs with what you are willing to give others and yourself. It’s quite a dance at times. One that can get quickly out of whack and end up with neither you nor others being happy.
I’ve been struggling with that lately. I need to back off of some things and maybe eliminate a few. It is the last week of the month and I don’t feel the accomplishment I had thought was possible. A couple of unexpected doctor visits and tests which won’t impact next month hopefully and the time spent dealing with the snow and really cold weather.
I was kind of freewheeling in January anyway because I just wanted to relax for a few days. But I think I’ll add a little structure to February and see if we can accomplish a bit more. I’m going to devote some time to blogging in 2-3 blocks of an hour each. And an hour or two in book writing.
I want to try to spend 2-3 hours a day photographing/editing/uploading/printing. Maybe more if possible. Reading is also going to become a daily activity of at least an hour.
I’ve gotten away from the treadmill each day so that will become a daily habit again just like today. I still hope to have some flexibility. Like when it starts to warm up I’ll do my walking outside. I always enjoy writing early in the day before the sun comes up but I do like splitting up the time working on different blog thoughts.
Food – Had a great meal at BJ’s Alehouse in Columbia yesterday. I love their Avacado Egg Rolls and I had the half rack of BabyBack Ribs with a salad and white cheddar potatoes. And one of those Pizolli deserts, the strawberry shortcake one.
Our server said it was his first day there but he was great. I suspect it wasn’t his first waiter job because there were no mistakes at all. Their timing was excellent and everything was great.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Too many people make up too many rules for others.
- I forgot to mention the passing of an early favorite of mine Charles Osgood. He hosted a show CBS Sunday Mornings for 22 years. I’ve followed that since Charles Kuralt started it.
- The sheer will of the people will fix it or break it.
- If the days you wanted to be ignored and left alone would match the days everyone else is busy or out of town, that would be neat. Hasn’t happened yet but one can hope.
- What a beautiful day outside.
Traditions
Write about a few of your favorite family traditions. I’m wondering if I’ll continue on with these writing prompts. I guess it’s good practice and I do enjoy some of the Bloganuary questions.
A family week at the beach has been one long standing tradition.
To Go (goodie) Bags – We don’t usually let our kids leave empty handed. Be it a piece of clothing my better half got while shopping or maybe something they needed at the grocery store. Lots of time my better half and I cook extra and if they are by we send them home with some. Maybe a treat for their pets, and of course something for the grandchildren at a minimum. Like yesterday, something for each of the little ones was purchased so when we gather this weekend they again won’t leave empty handed. Something our parents did for us.
We gather on Birthdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas – Always have, always will.
If you go to the shore without the family you bring something back to the family – examples – Fishers Popcorn, Salt water taffy, Lump crab meat, Sweet corn from MD Eastern shore.
To name just a few.
L time
What do you enjoy doing the most in your leisure time? Bloganuary asks.
All depends on the day and energy. On a warm summer day I might be beat from a day of yard work and the hour or two of leisure time might be laying in a hammock.
Maybe a drive with the top down and tunes on early on Sunday mornings.
If it’s mid week maybe a couple hours with friends watching a Maryland basketball game like last night. Eating pizza, sharing laughs, solving the worlds problems, playing with the dogs and unwinding.
Actually I’m just starting to scratch the surface and figuring out what I’m doing with leisure time because I’ve has so little of it in the past. So more updates on it coming.
Rolling to RockSalt Grille
I’m really liking the town of Westminster. We have family there and I love visiting. And one of our favorite places that never disappoints and leaves us feeling very good is located right on Main Street. RockSalt Grille is that spot and we will continue to patronize it as often as we can.
It’s always crowded but service is always top notch as it was this visit also. Timing, attention to detail and good food, what more can you ask.
The Mahi Mahi tacos, the Berrylicious salad with shrimp and the Short Rib Quesada were all great. And having no will power I had to try the bacon mac and cheese which was also top notch.
Photos by Mike Hartley
I didn’t get a chance to snap images of the 3 deserts we got to go. But I heard all were delicious. Smith Island Red Velvet cake and Oreo Cheesecake and Italian Lemon Cream cake were the choices but I’ve had the Key Lime pie and that is very good also. I image they all are.
This is one fine establishment that is a treat that keeps topping itself.
Overdue
Name an attraction or town close to home that you still haven’t got around to visiting. Asks the Bloganuary question today.
Antietam National Battlefield in Antietam Maryland is my answer. This is just over an hour away from home so I consider that local. I spent that time commuting one way to the job for decades to it meets my definition of “close to home.” I’ve had this on my list for years now and this is the year, of course when it warms up, because its and outdoor activity.
I’ve been to Gettysburg a number of times, my daughter went to college near there. I also went in my youth and did the tours. I have a picture on the wall of my better half early on when we were just dating of her with a battlefield fence behind her on a day trip we took there.
So time to see a battlefield in my own state.
A Card
My better half and I still give each other cards for our birthdays, anniversary and at Christmas. We take some time finding the right sentiment inside. And we always add our own to them. So I thought it strange the other day to find a card on my pillow. It wasn’t a holiday, not even near my birthday, anniversary has passed so what is up.
I opened it and it was a retirement card from her and some of the most touching things she has ever written. It felt so special that she expressed thanks for a lot of sacrifices I’m made along the way and the appreciation for them and more. Sometimes a card is much more than a card.
Travel - We tried but failed to get away this month so far. Looks like we will have to make up for it and double up one of the coming months. I’m looking forward to getting in the car and exploring a bit. Even day to day around the local area.
Physical Status - I always liked Mr. T in his prediction for the fight with Rocky. He would turn that face slightly with the meanest scowl say “PAIN.” Yesterday I felt like I woke with him in my face saying that. Such is life occasionally. Today is about the same, but I have a diversion coming in the form of my young grandson with the endless motor. So this discomfort will pass with time and much easier now that I have something to enjoy along the way.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Each time I put my mind to it I surprise myself.
- Improvise, adapt and overcome is a good attitude not just for Marines but Seniors also.
- Setting my goals higher today in terms of print output.
- The warm temps coming will be a nice temporary reprieve. I’m thankful.
- Ideas galore this morning. Let me go write them down before they pass. Have a good day.
Fun Five
List five things you do for fun. So asks the Bloganuary question today.
- Playing with my grandchildren.
- Sports with friends.
- Drive back roads on a sunny day with the top down on my Miata with some good music.
- Time at the beach with the family.
- Artistic pursuits – Photograph, draw and write.
Wish I could elaborate more but dislocated a finger last night and off to the doc to make sure I didn’t break anything and got it back right.
1 2 3 4
Kick it. Yeah I’m on a drum roll this morning to start my forth week of permanent vacation. I’m continuing to make some positive changes each day. Listening to some music this morning and finding a ton of inspiration. Plus it’s amazing after you have been under the weather for a bit to come out of it and feel the world is at your steps again.
Mother Nature is loosening her freezing grip on us slowly now and I can again venture outside without making a sailor take notice with all the cursing I can come up with.
The first few weeks of retirement didn’t exactly feel like it. Not much free time so it kind of felt like the same old routine. I was still and still am adjusting my sleep patterns. When you skip at least one nights sleep a week for 10 years and maybe average 4-5 hours a day for that timespan and your body and mind doesn’t immediately change overnight.
I was beginning to think I’ll never get to all I want to do with all these other things pulling at me in life. Then I remembered something I used to tell myself when I was working for someone else. I’m in charge ultimately.
So lets get to it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Each time I think I’m though preparing my shore exhibit, I find another print I like.
- I hope Lamar Jackson is listening to all these talk shows and commentators who have anointed Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen as the best QB’s in the league. Both of them are at best second in their own conference. Baltimore is going to EAT KC like BBQ.
- Some really big companies have some really bad websites.
- I have a new favorite day of the week. All of them.
- I’m about to find out if Nationwide is on my side.
Thanks
If you could make your pet understand one thing, what would it be? So asks the Bloganuary prompt today.
I would want my pets to know how important their love was to me and that it has saved me several times over my life. Having those ears listen to my thoughts. And somehow when I came to a difficult point in the one way conversation they would dig their face deeper into my chin or put a paw over my arm at just the right time.
Thank you all. Pets are family.
Time, ain’t it something
I blink my eyes, and my kids are grown. I blink my eyes and my career has come to a close. I blink my eyes and WordPress says it’s been 10 years together today. And 2,845 posts later here we are. Doing more then ever and loving each day I get a chance to take a crack at it again.
It was time to get together for a dinner with my oldest best friends last night and it was a wonderful time. An appreciation for that time together is always between us. The silent acknowledgement that time is not on our side now and that we are to savor these events sometimes comes to the surface but we are usually too busy having a good time to reflect on that aspect.
I was going to do a food review of where we ate but I’ve started to think about how I want to do reviews and I don’t feel like making anything other than positive ones. So when I think a place is average or maybe below I’m just going to skip it.
The restaurant business is so tough and costly and it might be more of a disservice to a company if you just caught them on not their best day. We are all human, we all have them.
When I like a place a paragraph or two maybe of what I liked. But when its a hit, you will know it.
Lots of things go into making a good meal. The setting/location/view to the staff/service and of course the food. Different things are also more or less important to individuals. For instance comfort is a big one at our age an uncomfortable seat make it hard to enjoy a meal.
So here is hoping our next meal out is a special one that I can share with you all.
It has taken me most of the week to start feeling okay again. I’m sitting here smiling about it because the options are in front of me as they were before but now I have energy/health and a great mindset to move ahead again. Life is great today.
Give it to Mikey
Write about your first name: It’s meaning, significance, etymology, etc. So asks today’s Bloganuary prompt.
My first name is Mike – Michael on the license. Sometimes I think some of my nicknames are my first name when with friends. I love the name Papa and Dad when called and I hope it never changes to Mike when a child or grandchild calls me as they age.
Anyway I don’t have much interest in this question but will explore to learn. First I’ve never looked into the meaning of my name.
Michael – Meaning: “Who is like God” or “Gift from God.” Gender: Michael is most often a masculine name but can also be used for girls. Origin: Hebrew. Pronunciation: Mye-Kehl. So says Lord Google.
Okay, that was interesting finding the meaning of my name.
I see that Michael was rated the 26th most popular baby name (so says thebump.com) and by their chart it looked as if it was a popular name for decades but has really fallen off in recent years.
To be honest I had to go look up what etymology was first. So the answer for Michael is it’s over 2,500 years old as a boys name and is one of the oldest names still in common use today.
Learning is cool. But enough of this exercise, there is more to post and photograph today.
Not really a job
What is your dream job? So asks the Bloganuary question today.
I think I just found it. I’m working on becoming an artist, writer and photographer that I thought I could be early in life. Also an active grandparent to the young ones. Then again I don’t really think of those things as a job but more as a passion. But I also know they require work, a lot of it and if I get accomplished at them it may become like a job in terms of the hours I put in it.
But, its nice to finally have a choice on jobs that aren’t driven by other pressures, people or places.
History has taught me
What makes a good leader? Wow, I like this Bloganuary question.
Having just retired, I have a long list of leaders I’ve worked for. So I’ll use their examples of things that led me over the last 5 decades. Not all my leaders had these qualities. Some of the qualities I’m listing come from what BAD leaders didn’t have or do. But thankfully I’ve had some really great ones along that way that I’ll always be thankful for.
Leaders can be found at every level so I don’t think of them as just executives or bosses. I’ve seen people lead/manage from below many times over.
And just for clarity – I’ve worked for men and women leaders. I’ve worked for Black, White, Asian, German, Indian and Danish leaders. I’ve worked for former hard assed U.S. Marine leaders and Mom leaders. So I’ve also experienced a number of styles of leadership. None of those things matter, you either are a leader or your not. It doesn’t mean you have to be one all the time either but if you think you are you better be aware of the responsibility that comes with being one.
A good leader communicates with you: This may be #1,2,3 – Leaders should know you and what makes you tick. To do that they have to listen to you. A good leader also recognizes that the time with each person can and may need to be different. Some need positive reinforcement and others it would be just a bother. So communication means getting to know the person first, and then developing and learning and adjusting so you both are on the same page but still all the needed communications are going on, but without a ton of wasted time and meetings. Good leaders also recognize that people change and needs change over time.
Example: In my last decade of work I went back to an overnight shift. Our manager worked the day shift because they spanned multiple areas. The managers had realized I had the experience and knowledge to teach and help coordinate the team which was perfect because they were working day shifts and couldn’t be up overnight as we were. They let me take the lead on communications/coordination within the team and having worked in engineering for a long time together we made sure all the balls in the air weren’t dropped. There wasn’t a need for meetings, or face to face except the once a year review for me. We did weekly turnovers, nightly reports, responded to Slack messages and tons of email every night and they were all copied so we were all on the same page. But very rarely did we speak together or see each other.
A good leader will challenge, motivate and push you: I had a former marine as a boss once. People would ask how can you work for him, he’s on you like white on rice. It’s the way he did it though. What people saw was him challenging me to be better. He also did something as a good leader. If he had an issue it was just you and him in his office. No public dressing down. And the opposite was true outside the office door because he would praise an defend you like a Pitbull if you were doing the right things and your best.
A good leader has strength: I’ve seen some incredibly challenging situations where standing up in critical and very important situations to represent a position/action/person/direction and speaking up and carrying it through is totally inspirational. Lots of times these actions are little ones throughout the year that let people know you have courage and their backs. And I must interject this here. I’ve run into some incredibly strong women. Once that make a lot of men look like wimps. A suit and attitude does not make a leader.
A good leader will give credit where credit is due: They also will reward good work. Some good ones always give the team credit first and sometime entirely. There success is the teams success.
A good leader will say “Thank you”: Many times a simple thank you will do wonders for someone’s moral. It shows you are watching, recognizing and appreciating the work done. Thanks for working those holidays. Thanks for staying late for that emergency. Thanks for working this weekend. Thanks for working through your break today. Thanks for finishing that project early. Thanks for catching that before it blew up.
A good leader will look ahead and challenge you do to the same: Questions like where do you want to be next year, or 5 years down the road? In addition to the team goals what are your personal goals this year? A good leader might pair you up with a good mentor.
A good leader will not avoid conflict and face it head on: This is inevitable in jobs. Leaders are there to sort things out. Avoiding it is DISASTER. And I’ve seen some Disasters.
A good leader is flexible: Life is not always predictable. Good bosses understand that. Ones who ignore that aren’t leaders.
A good leader will connect first: Leaders who come from a position of authority and superiority first and then try to connect are lost. For they have made the statement “I’m better than you and have control over you and you serve me.” Well so they think.
A good leader will have consistency and integrity: Decisions and actions overtime bear these qualities out.
A good leader is usually a good coach: I’ve seen a lot of things taken from sports and applied to business successfully. They can handle situations with people and organizations at the same time, chart a course, adjust and adapt. And as one of my best friends phrases goes “take the glory off the field.”
A good leader has a good batting average: Leaders are making decisions all the time. Constantly in the batters box being evaluated on every pitch and hit. Yes every good leader may strike out once in a while but you know they hit for a great average so you can overlook one here and there.
A good leader will be honest and tell you tough things: This means things to help you improve yourself and the team.
Again, I’m thankful for some very wonderful leaders who touched my life. I still am in contact with all of them and most likely will be for life.
Cotton balls of snow
Greetings fellow frozen ones. Outdoors on a wintery day again. The cloths are hung again to dry from the snow. The warm and comfy recliner will soon be visited in between working on a few projects in my office.
I was so pleased earlier when some inspiration and time available just happened to pair up and I worked on a book I’ve started and feel good about what I got done. I’ve read where people schedule their writing times and I just find that difficult.
Lots of times when I sit to do the blog and if nothings coming along I’ll get up and walk away and do something else. Most times I’ll get a photo of mine, new/old and that will inspire a blog and off I go. Most of the time it works that way. But writing for a book and a blog I’m discovering are two different things.
In writing for the book and not using images except from my mind so far. And immediately I found that I can’t sit and write some material when I’m down in spirits. I can knock out a blog on my worst day mentally and still keep it positive for the most part. No such thing in writing books I’ve started so far. Then again maybe I’m trying to write the wrong book, when I’m depressed. I’ve never tried writing something dark.
I hope time allows for me to finish a few works. Don’t know if it will amount to a hill of beans but like blogging, it’s become a purpose.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Snow doesn’t look as deep as it is from an inside window as it does outside with a shovel in your hands.
- Try to limit disappointment and then move on.
- As is typical. The plow comes down the street as I finish shoveling my driveway. That is just fine though, I’m happy with the job they do in this area with snow removal.
- If you look and listen hard, it’s easy to figure out where people stand and their priorities. Now taking that information and processing it can be the hard part for a lot of us.
Trail
Saw this young one strolling out of my back yard yesterday leading a pack of 6. They were all back sleeping in my lower back this morning in the snow and they are still there as I peer through the woods.
With the snow on the ground I’m seeing the trails they take through the neighborhood and lots of them cross through the woods behind us and between my neighbors yard and mine to cross the street or across my front yard.
I grew up with nice patch of woods behind my family home. For nearly the last 4 decades I’ve had woods behind our home. I love looking out into woods. But as most areas in this county every inch seems to be developed and some of the woods are now a few homes but there is still deep enough in the woods to hide them in the winter and summer and with the exception of one home and even that is a bit obscured in the winter.
Sometimes when I’m looking out back now it seem doesn’t seem like 60 years ago we would march into thick woods and make forts that lasted each season. A secret refuge. Nothing special, mostly constructed of woods, maybe an old piece of carpet or scraps of wood/materials from home. I remember going out to it in the middle of winter sometime to what we had built and used all summer.
Ah to be young and just look at something or a spot and start building. I guess I’m doing that still but in different ways and no more heavy lifting of fallen tree logs/branches. I’d rather not build walls anyway.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- You know I do battle with Mother Nature spring, summer and fall. But boy does she piss me off when I have to battle her in winter. Yes it’s pretty, unless your shoveling it.
- Some say dressing in layers is important. I say staying inside is more important.
- I just finished the longest vacation I’ve ever taken. I’ve been off for 3 weeks in a row. I kind of like it and the chance to make it permanent leaves me grinning.
- Writing is easy when healthy.
Take it back
If you could un-invent something, what would it be? Asks this Bloganuary question of the day.
The Smartphone – one of the worst things for society. It has stopped people from interacting.
Weapons of War – having matured and refined it enough to the point where we can clean the face of the planet if a few people choose to do so.
The Lawnmower – Having spent a lot of time on one and behind one, I’ve fantasized about just letting it grow and pretending they didn’t exist.
Money – I think the saying/quote goes “the love of money is the root of all evil”. That might be a bible verse. I’ll have to go look it up. I could be wrong.
Politics – Like religion meant to appease a specific people but not the whole.
ATM and Self Check Out – I miss the interaction with people.
GPS – Learn where the hell you are. Remember where you have been. Know where you are going.
Spandex – Because some like to stretch limits.
A I – Artificial Intelligence – not a fan because so much potential for wrong. Like most things if used in the wrong way.
Plastics – Cigarettes – Asbestos –
Half back x 2
Sorry about the absence on Monday. I hadn’t been that ill in a while and I’m still only feeling about 50%. My chest hurts, my throat is raw and I lost (not intentionally) some more weight. I feel weak. I messed up my daily posting streak again. That happens when your a one man band sometimes.
That snow shoveling yesterday didn’t help and now my back is giving me fits today. All this reminds me that if you don’t have your health, you don’t have much going for you. That is why I’m optimistic about the half of me that feels better today allowing for some energy for thoughts to share.
Other than that I’ve been flat on my back today pretty much. And that is something I couldn’t allow myself before when working. So it feels good to take care of myself first instead of the job. I did a lot of stupid things for the job for way too long.
Working when very sick. Coming back early from both of my cancer surgeries. Never missing a day of work while doing 11 weeks Mon-Fri of daily radiation. Then the massive overtime I used to put in while on salary. But like I said those were my stupid choices.
They might be leading to some of the difficulties I’ve had or may have in the future. I’ve done a fare share of hard work. I can still remember the back pain I had as a youth from working in the pressroom every so often flying papers off the conveyer, jogging them and loading counts of 50-100 at a time on a skid. Hours and hours of bending over, lift, standing and bending over again.
But such is life. Many have carried greater burdens or aren’t blessed with the possibility of good health either physically or mentally. So no more complaining today. Just turning on some inspirational music now that I’ve missed the passed 3-4 days and getting back in my grove. First tune (Time Stand Still) by RUSH. Utilize each day the best you can.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- Chicken noodle soup is so good after your sick. Seems to be the only time I have it though.
- When the snow is on the ground you can really see all the wildlife that treks through my back yard.
- It’s good to remind yourself of your age when you go out to do something you used to do.
- Nothing like pictures of young children enjoying the snow.
- Being a good neighbor can be painful if they have long driveways.
- I feel an urgency to things. Going to really let it flow soon.
Feeling it
Can you share a positive example of where you’ve felt loved? Asks today’s Bloganuary prompt.
When I recovering from health issues I was touched by the outpouring of love. When my grandchildren run from their parent’s car to my waiting arms ready to lift them into the air. When gifts from my children are well thought out and personal.
Walking into my parents or my inlaw’s homes. The strong embrace from my friends when we see each other. The hand squeeze my daughter has always given me. When my son calls me to get together. Walking together hand in hand with my better half at the beach on vacation.
Clutter
Where can you reduce clutter in your life? So ask the Bloganuary writing prompt.
My office is rather cluttered. I’ve been slowing working on it but its still a mess. I’m going to enlist my better half in helping me sort things out. I’m not a hoarder but I am a bit of a pack rat.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Actually I have very little clutter in my life. The yard and home are clean (exception my office) and even my cars are clean, inside and out.
Sometimes I feel my mind is a little too cluttered but since work has stopped it’s a lot better. I spent a hell of a lot of time thinking about and doing work. Making other people wealthy and happy. No more of that I hope.
Purr Purr
What is your favorite animal ask the daily prompt. I would have answered this daily prompt yesterday but illness prevented me from reaching the computer.
My favorite animals are cats. We have had them as pets most of our lives. I’ve learned to love dogs also being my friends have them and my son also. Cats and I seem to be on the same page. Dogs need a lot of love and attention. A lot of times when they want it. Yes it’s a much more interactive relationship and rewarding relationship, but a few things lend cats to my liking.
I don’t have to walk a cat in freezing or messy weather. I don’t have to reach down with a plastic bag and pick up its crap. I don’t have to give up my spots in bed. Just a few things that make me more comfortable with cats.
Commentary – If you choose to have a pet, BE RESPONSIBLE. They are not disposable items. They are not to be mistreated. They are not to be ignored. And be a good owner and take them to the vet to make sure they are healthy.
Communication highway
In what ways do you communicate online? Ask another prying questions from the daily prompt.
Things changed recently in that regard. The company apps like Slack, Zoom, Teams and many other system monitoring and admin tools along with company email are no longer. I used to spend a lot of time communicating on Slack because the hours I worked everyone else was in bed. And if they had to be woke they weren’t in the building.
Blogging here is probably my most common one to the public. I use a lot of email to family and friends. I get on Facebook every few days but I don’t post much of anything there. I used LinkedIn in the past.
Is texting considered online communication? It’s done from smartphones right? Who knows. Again I do some but not an unusual amount. Probably less than average.
Oh yeah, a little YouTube and that might increase as I learn to take more video.
I have a photo site on Zenfolio and as my site grows so does the communication.
Medical institutions and hospitals have all switched to some form of online communications. Some do it well, some don’t. Unfortunately I have several medical apps.
Commentary – I have no problem with technology except that we all are prone to go overboard and misuse it. Communication face to face or at least with voice is important. Real friends are not measured in Facebook counts or likes. My advice to the youth which is probably far to late. Get your damn face out of the smartphone and talk to someone. Walk with someone. Hold hands with someone. Laugh with someone. Cry with someone. Live with a real human being and not a screen.
Wind
With the wind blowing like crazy the last few days and more to come I thought this was the appropriate shot to use today. Hang onto your hat and bundle up. It’s no summer, spring or fall day outside.
Even though I’m tired I’m not going to waste this evening. Being I don’t have Peacock I won’t need to spend hours watching football this evening. All the better. At first I was upset but hey if pro and college sports want to move their stuff to pay per view or streaming go right ahead.
I guess they aren’t worried about things like losing fans or merchandise sales. Got to have the TV revenue though. Go for it boys.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I’ve worked so long I’m having a hard time fighting the impulse that I’m being lazy when I relax a bit during the day.
- I successfully made some parmesan crisps today. Tried a few with Italian seasoning and a couple with Old Bay to see what that might be like with a seafood salad.
- The opportunity to shoot some really cold weather will present itself this week. Will I take advantage of it is another question, or do I stay warm?
Road Trip
Think back on your most memorable road trip. So ask the daily prompt today.
When I think of the term “Road Trip”, my mind flashes back to my youth. For those words were said with emphasis. Sometimes to a far away destination, sometimes to a local club. Driving was a huge part of our youth.
The best road trip was in my 74 Camaro from our home midway between DC and Baltimore to Daytona Beach Florida with one of my best friends, I think the year was 1978. With stops to see friends in South Carolina and his Grandparents in Georgia on the way down to the shores of Florida.
I can’t remember the total days, but we had slow cruise on the way down, stayed several days in Daytona so about a 8-9 days debauchery had gone by. We called back home to rage from the beach and learned there was a big party that night at a friends house. Soon as we hung up we knew it was a road trip home to make it to the party. We were leaving the next day anyway.
Given the distance, 830 miles and time they would never expect us. But we drove the tires off this thing that day and made it. Switching drivers each time we got gas, barely missing getting locked up a few times. Two of us barely over 20 years old and playing Cannonball Run up the east coast. One of many, of not the smartest things I’ve ever done. But we survived. And it was a thrill and a half and a great trip overall.
A close runner up though are days on the bike riding for 8-10 hours down to the ocean and just cruising that were great. Going up and down the Atlantic coast from Ocean City Maryland up to Bethany or Rehoboth Delaware and stopping at favorite dining and beverage spots and the occasional rest/nap on the beach. Then back home in the late evening crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and looking at the freighters lined up down the bay waiting there turn to unload.
I love to drive and sometimes spend days cruising now in my Miata convertible now with my better half. Days of speed and wheelies are long over. But road trips will always be part of me.
Snack
What snack would you eat right now? is the question from the daily prompt today. The short answer was Valentines hearts from Brach’s candies were being consumed as I was reading the question. Yes they are out already at the stores.
The long answer below on snacking.
In the past I would snack at any hour and almost anything as a matter of fact. I was always able to eat with abandon. A few decades ago I began to work night shifts and then flip back to a day person on your days off so meals and snacks had no designated time. They are just there. Ice cream at 6am, no problem.
And for the first 4 and a half decades of my life I was active enough and this didn’t turn into excess weight. But the last 2 plus decades that formula failed. So about 3 months ago I changed my snack/meal habits and cut out a lot sodas.
I still allow myself some snacks like candy and chips but its in moderation or a treat. Instead of taking the bag of chips and some dip downstairs. I might grab a chip or two and then go.
Don’t get me wrong, I love to snack. Cheese curls, M&Ms, Smarties, ice cream and others. And I still do snack, at home and at functions. If I go overboard one evening I make it up and something else gives so it kind of keeps me in line.
I allow myself one Coke in the mornings now. I never was a coffee drinker. I used to knock back 6-8 16.9 0z. bottles of Coke a day. The penalty for messing up the day before and eating too much junk or food is missing my daily Coke for as long as it takes to get back to target weight. And I don’t like missing that treat so this kid is toeing the line.
Snacking healthy is a good thing. I just don’t care for too many healthy snacks. Humas looks like mud. I do like nuts so they have helped. Popcorn isn’t any good unless its smothered in butter or cheese or caramel in a bucket from Fishers Popcorn in Ocean City Maryland.
Chocolate is a snack I love, but in moderation. Fruits and Vegetable’s are Fruits and Vegetable’s. Yes you can snack on them but they are not snacks in this kids menu. A banana might be part of breakfast. Broccoli might be in the Cheddar and Broccoli soup I have at lunch, but just because its in a tray with a dip in the middle of it doesn’t mean its not a vegetable.
Now COOKIES are a snack. I was a close runner up to Cookie Monster a few times in my life. I think this year might have been the first that I didn’t finish off the Christmas cookies in the house. Chips/salsa/guacamole are something I still snack on once in a while as a treat.
Life is short, allow yourself some nice treats. Ones that are your favorites. Just be smart with your body.
See, all this focus on food this early in the morning isn’t good for me. Let me get up and do some light weights and hit the shower. Have a good morning all.