What’s something you used to believe as a kid that seems ridiculous now? – An interesting ask from the daily writing prompt.
At a very young age I used to believe that everything was going to be okay. At a very young age I found out that everything wasn’t going to be okay.
I grew up in an era where most of the major league sports players usually played their careers with the same team. I don’t know how kids now get attached to their local team when the pieces change so much each year.
I used to think that leaders and sports stars were somehow all people with great character. There all just as flawed as the rest of us.
I believed I could become an artist someday. It does seem ridiculous today because I gave up on it for so many decades. But maybe, just maybe if I’m given some more time here, I might make that belief as a kid come around.
It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. Photo by Mike Hartley
The daily prompt wants to know – What’s a piece of media (book, movie, song) that changed how you see the world?
When I was young there was a lot of music talking about the chaos in the country. CSNY (Crosby Stills Nash and Young) was one of them that reached me. I was maybe 12 when I started listening to what was classified as counterculture music. The kind your parents came in and said what the hell is that.
Many songs from the late 60s and early 70s were ones that inspired emotions, gave messages that made you think, challenged norms. I know I felt changed by much of it. Like the song title from the group Ten Years After “I’d Love To Change The World”
Comment – This is a very important question moving forward. Media can influence how we see the world. And that has never been more obvious than the current times.
I’m not encouraging you to dump getting information because you fear it’s all tainted. It’s always had a slant one way or another depending on your views. BUT in all that information is the truth. You have to dig, you have to question, you have to read and investigate. You have to find trusted sources but also check them from time to time.
And then Teach Your Children as CSNY said. Teach them to love and look for truth.
The daily prompt with a question I’m totally disinterested in. – If you could change the ending of any book, which one would it be.
I don’t have an answer to this question. But I am interested in writing a book. I’ve started a few and haven’t made a ton of progress but each day I’m plugging away. I have trouble imagining the ending right now. As time changes and life change the ending my change.
Because those are the things that I’m writing about. Life, time and what we do with it. Writing is easy. Editing is another thing. I’m learning I just need to write first and edit later. I get caught up in mixing the two together too often.
I don’t even want to think about an ending now because the journey is still going on and that is the enjoyable part of the process. The end/finish line is the sense of accomplishment. But the writing up to that ending is what makes that special.
A good book on a nice day on patio of Whole Foods building. Photo by Mike Hartley
What’s the best advice you’d give someone younger than you? – A dangerous question from the daily prompt.
Advice can be dangerous. Good advice is priceless. I’ve given a bit of advice to young people over time. I’ve worked with a lot of young people and I’ve enjoyed it. Yes, I was frustrated at times but the energy and new looks they can bring inspired me during my career.
Given the fact that most people are younger than me this is what I do most days. You’d think I’d be an expert by now. But I’m not.
So, I’ll keep it simple young people –
Never give up hope, believe in yourself, find a passion, work hard at it and love a lot.
Now here is some advice, on advice.
Lots of people will give advice far beyond their reach.
All advice comes from someone else’s perspective. That necessarily isn’t bad, but it might not be the best path for you.
Consider the source of the advice.
A lot of advice is best displayed by examples.
If you’re giving advice to someone important to you and it isn’t received the first try, please try to find another way to impart the important information.
Giving advice is a lot about the proper timing for the advice.
People will give advice that was good in their day and may not apply to current times. And that isn’t intentionally bad advice, it’s just what worked for them in their time.
Most of the time people giving advice have good intentions, but there are a few people in this world that will give bad advice intentionally. We’ll let me correct that. There are a lot of bad people in this world who will give you bad advice, but thankfully there are still more good people. But this should be a word of caution on accepting all advice.
I’ve listened to great advice and horrible advice. Don’t beat yourself up over the bad advice and learn from it. And don’t get too cocky over the good advice, remember that came from someone else and you just used it.
The daily prompt asks – Who are you most inspired by?
That is a hard question to answer because there have been different people at different times in my life. My mom inspired me early on. Various co-workers and managers have inspired me over the professional years. My children always inspire me to be a great father.
My better half inspires me. But I think most of my inspiration comes from within.
Upon further reflection, I think my grandchildren inspire me the most right now.
What’s a book, movie, or TV show that you wish you could experience again for the first time? – Interesting ask by the daily prompt.
Let’s see, I plan on spending some time at the beach, so I don’t need to see Jaws again for the first time. And the more I think about this question it’s almost impossible to answer. I think back to books, tv shows, and movies and most of my favorites are linked to that point of time in my life a good while back, so seeing again for the first time now wouldn’t be the same at all.
So instead of those choices I’m going to pick music and a concert because music is timeless and hearing The Who or Led Zeppelin again for the first time live would be wild. Of course we would have to reincarnate a few of the musicians.
What’s a common misconception people have about happiness? – An interesting ask from the daily prompt.
Wow, when I read this question my first thought went to Robin Williams. Someone who seemed so happy and spread so much of it in his lifetime was dealing with such internal pain. Behind a lot of smiles, there can be a lot of pain.
I read a simple term a long time ago. It said, “Happiness is a Choice.” I took that to heart more and the opportunity to use it has been great, but it isn’t always true. Life will throw things at you that take happiness away. Sometimes for short periods, sometimes for longer ones.
I don’t know if you can be truly happy if never experience the other side of the coin.
Happiness most of the time just doesn’t appear. Usually, it’s something you do
There is another phrase that goes, “Happiness is fleeting.” I used to think that when I was younger but now, I’m stringing longer periods together.
And you don’t have to be happy all the time. Contentment, satisfaction, listening, observing, rest and relaxation are cool.
Some people are happy just being unhappy. Puzzles the hell out of me but to each their own.
Money and prestige don’t always equal happiness. I’ve had some of the best times in smaller minor league baseball parks than the major league ones.
It’s not the size of the fan its the size of the spirit in the fan. Photo by Mike Hartley
The daily prompt asks – If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and why?
I’ve always wanted to know either how to play drums or piano. I just have an interest in those instruments. And to have mastered that and be able to create music all day would be wonderful.
Drum set in window of Bill’s Music in Catonsville. Photo by Mike Hartley
What is one way you have grown this year? – Another good self-evaluation question from the daily prompt.
My beard is longer. Just kidding even though it is a bit longer.
These questions are good for me because sometimes I get too busy making the right and wrong decisions and moving on at times.
I’d say I’ve grown better knowing what I want and using time better and on the right things. Both with people and activities. I didn’t get off to the best start in this area but I’m hauling now.
And speaking of time I haven’t been in the seat of my Miata in a few days and I’m about to put my shoes on and go warm that up, put the top down and show my support for The Manual Gearbox Preservation Society.
What is something you wish you could tell your 20-year-old self? A good question from the daily prompt.
Wow that is a long list of things to tell myself now that I have almost 50 years of experience beyond that age.
First, even though I was serious about my work I was busy raising so much hell I probably wouldn’t have listened to much advice. You think you know a lot by the time you’re 20.
I’m going to give two quick answers even though the list I have running through my head now is a long one.
You only have one body. Take care of it and don’t abuse it.
Your mind is your strongest asset. Have confidence in yourself. Make good decisions. Choose friends wisely. Be inspired. You’re capable of much more than you think you are currently, so go for it.
Write your guide to setting healthy boundaries in relationships. – Not such a simple ask from the daily writing prompt.
Wow, just thinking about this is complex because boundaries are different in different relationships. It’s also something that I don’t think about much. I guess I’ve set boundaries over time that people who know me know what they are.
I think one boundary that a lot of my friends and I have come to in our senior years is that we don’t want a lot of negativities around. Life is too short to negative. Not that we don’t get there now and then on a point, but we don’t stay there and stay on topics we enjoy more now.
Okay, I admit I’m a little soft on my knowledge on the topic even though I feel like I’ve been good at communicating with people on this topic on what mine are. So, I found a chart to help me.
Physical – I’m a physical person. I shake hands with people, I hug people, I kiss those close to me. I respect others physical boundaries and don’t expect them to be the same as mine.
Emotional – I respect other feelings, as long as they respect mine.
Intellectual – The thoughts, beliefs and ideas of others are theirs. And they can have them because it’s a free country. That doesn’t mean I have to accept or agree with them.
Time – this is a tough one for most people. Who do you spend your time with and how much. People have expectations of time, and this is often the cause of tension in relationships. It’s not just showing up on time. It’s the quality of time you give people and would like from them.
Material – property, giving and lending. Be very clear in these areas. As with all boundaries, communication is key.
Spiritual – Wow this is a touchy one. I once had a close friend of many years who became very involved in faith to deal with another issue. He said to me that I’m going to hell because I didn’t believe exactly like he did. Our relationship was changed for the worse when that transpired.
Sexual – Having been married many decades you would think we got this one down. But as we age, that also changes, so you need to adapt and talk.
Don’t forget to set those boundaries and communicate them early. Photo by Mike Hartley
The daily prompt with an out of this world questions this morning. – Do you think humans will ever colonize Mars? What would life there actually look like?
The answer to the first question is no. The answer to the second question is, I don’t care. I like life here on earth and if we start taking care of ourselves and this planet it could be a beautiful place.
So, what to pontificate on this Sunday morning.
I think a day trip is in order this week. And I’ll get the firepit roaring in the evenings again, being it’s going to cool off a bit this week.
How to make the best use of today? Stay busy. Take a ride with the top down. Love and play with my grandchildren. Eat smart.
There was a deer with her newborn fawn in my backyard this morning.
The Knicks won the NBA championship. Proving it’s still a TEAM game. No superstar, just a bunch of guys playing together.
Well, it looks like the timing for that bad weather and the UFC fight on the White House lawn are set to kick off around the same time. Thank you, Karma. The place looks like hell. Half the house torn down, cock fighting in the front yard. I’m sure they’re bringing some outhouses in for all those people. All we need is a few cars up in cinder blocks and a few more trailers and were there.
Some high broken clouds this morning in Maryland. Photo by Mike Hartley
The daily prompt asks – What’s a cultural tradition from another country that you wish existed in yours?
I was aware of a few traditions from other countries, but when I looked at some of the others, I was enlightened and somewhat surprised.
One stood out to me that I wasn’t aware of. In Finland, it has been traditional since the 19th century to participate in eukonkanto – the sport of wife-carrying. There’s even a Wife Carrying World Championship.
So, if the World Cup isn’t your thing or coming to the USA isn’t desirable now (I understand and apologize) you can get to Finland for the 2026 championship in July.
What are the biggest mistakes people make when visiting your country? – Tough question from the daily prompt. Hope I don’t misinterpret it.
I would guess people think there is a lot more crime and violence here than there actually is. Another thing I might think people visiting would make is with food. Portion sizes here are large compared to other parts of the world I believe.
I’m thinking America has a reputation of being a rather rude or in your face country. I’d say a small percentage of us behave like assholes. Most of us are very friendly.
When you’re traveling state to state pretend you just entered a different country.
Don’t assume we have competent leadership here.
This is a tip and tax country.
I guess most countries have some form of racing. And some of you might have seen racing in the USA also. Maybe the Indy 500 or Daytona 500. Well, we don’t really separate that from our highways here so if you’re renting a car, get ready to compete.
There is a lot of Natural and Man-Made beauty in this country. It’s also a very BIG country and if you are out wandering be careful and know the environment/weather before venturing out. Speaking of weather, don’t underestimate it. We have it all, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, floods, blizzards, ice storms.
There are a lot of chains here in the USA. But just like your home country some of the best places are local independently owned restaurants. Locals will gladly share the best spots.
Have a great visit please. Despite our incompetent leader and his circus clowns we love other nationalities and ethnicities. Those who hate are too stupid to realize they built a lot of this country.
Washington Monument and Capital. Photo by Mike Hartley
What’s a song that always puts you in a good mood? – Now there is a good question from the daily prompt.
I’ve been listening to music this morning as I’ve been working on several things. And I’m in a good mood so the group that has put a pep in my step this morning has been The Doobie Brothers. Here are some songs from them that have been filling my headphones.
I’ve written before on some fears I’ve overcome, and how I did it. – But the daily prompt insists on asking it again.
For a while after retirement, I thought the number of fears I had were increasing. Now a couple of years into it, I feel less fear than I did before.
Some have changed. I used to drive back and forth to Washington DC and some of the busiest surrounding areas. So, driving in some of the most congested and dangerous areas was nothing. Now the beltways and interstates aren’t that comfortable anymore now that I’m not competing in the daily death race back and forth to work.
As I was getting into my 50s, I used to fear getting older and sick again. That fear is faded because I guess we all eventually accept the inevitable. I just make the best of each day now.
I never feared speed before. I don’t think I fear it now; I just don’t have that desire anymore. I don’t think it’s out of fear, but I guess anything is possible.
You ever stop fearing for your children or grandchildren. I just spend as much time loving them and with them and that helps.
I used to fear people who I thought were super intelligent. Then I realized that most of them have big deficiencies in other areas.
The thing that scares me the most now are those ads for these meds with all the nasty side effects like death and things like that yet living. I hope I never have a need for them.
My main fear now is the messed-up world we are leaving our children with. I’m going to try to overcome that fear by working on changing it for the better.
The daily prompt asks a good question today – How do you build loyal subscribers?
We used to have a saying in the newspaper business that “Content is King” meaning if you have good and interesting content, well displayed organized and illustrated, they will come and stay.
I hope something I present here connects with people maybe an image makes them smile or laugh. And I thank you for subscribing if you choose to.
It’s not that I don’t care about people looking at this. I’ve met some very nice and supportive people here and I love this environment more than other social media platforms. Not that I utilize others much. A little Facebook that I’d like to ditch because of ownership, but life is short and I’d still like to keep a few long-distance relationships I have going through that platform.
I’m puzzled by some of my subscribers, some are just doing it to get their site attention and they are selling something. Others in faraway places in the world puzzle me also.
I’m guessing a few may subscribe for nefarious reasons.
But back to the question, (my mind wanders often). Obviously the first change I’d make is to make navigating my blog easier. I’d switch off this out and no longer supported theme. I’d have sections for the work I’m presenting. I’d build more things to promote interaction. I’d build value into the site by providing expertise, experience, information, and views that are important to a target audience.
You find out what your subscribers want and provide that information to them. You can entertain them, maybe it’s finding other like-minded people to that bond to build something bigger and better. Like the challenges that people run.
I do this for fun. I do this to improve my skills. I do this to grow mentally and challenge myself. I do it in bits and pieces between a very busy life. None of this probably builds loyal subscribers. I do this because of my daily publishing background has somehow ingrained in me to publish daily on my own.
One day I’ll get my act together and make this something that will have some significant subscribers because I hope to have much better content. And Content is King.
But it won’t matter a bit to me if that doesn’t happen either as long as keep having fun at it. Thankfully subscribers aren’t what drives this effort. Not that I don’t appreciate them, the comments and likes makes me think someone enjoyed my somersaults.
The daily prompt asks – Share a proverb you think is completely wrong and make your case.
Blood is thicker than water. – That can be true with some family members but maybe not all. I’ve seen and been part of fractured families. I’ve had friends closer to me than family.
Don’t cross that bridge till you come to it. – Wrong, planning is important. If you don’t think ahead, you might not consider the options you have when you get to that bridge.
Every cloud has a silver lining – While a lot of them might, not everyone does. Just like storms, some roll in right behind one another with bad news.
Fall seven times, stand up eight. – I’m all for perseverance but see a doctor if you’re falling that much.
Do you believe in soulmates? Why or why not? – Asks the daily prompt.
Soulmates is a term I haven’t used a lot, but I feel like I’ve had several. So yes, I believe in them.
That connection that is stronger than most. The feeling that they know you and you know them on a deeper level.
Lots of marriages have found their soulmates and their love for each other is boundless and unconditional. Soulmates look into your eyes and you into theirs.
Soulmates don’t lose connection because they are naturally drawn together. You understand them easily. You can understand their pain and empathize with them. You say good things about each other and support each other. In ways that make you both better.
You’re in sync with each other, you listen better and interact with enthusiasm.
The other day I remembered an old childhood friend. We were soulmates. I’ve been married to my soulmate for decades. And luckily a few more are soulmates that I’ve had for decades.
Soulmates can rescue and save you at times in life. And you for them.
Why do I believe in them. I’ve experienced it.
Sometimes soulmates never speak a word but communicate more than most people.
Getting by with a little help from my friends. Photo by Mike Hartley
What’s a moment in your life that felt like it was straight out of a movie? – Asks the daily prompt.
We were nearing the end of a wild vacation trip that ended in Daytona Beach Florida. We were debating whether to stay another day or two. That morning we were speaking with some friends back home and they told us about a party that evening. We said we’d be back the next day or the day after that.
But after having breakfast we joked about showing up and surprising them. We continued to joke about it but let some time lapse and then looked at each other and said “Let’s Do It.” That became our moto because the movie Animal House had just been released and we saw it on the 2nd day of a 9-day trip.
That drive was like a Smokey and the Bandit or Cannonball run movie.
We had my nice old Camaro and broke a few speed limits, we’ll all of them on the way back in record time and showed up and surprised the crew. We took turns driving, each tank of gas, which that V8 ate like candy.
One of those stupid things you do as a youth. It was the most fun I’ve ever had driving though. And one of the best vacations ever outside of family ones.
I don’t have a good shot of my old favorite, but it looked like this but in maroon color.
The daily prompt asks me to – Go on a walk today and share a photo of something that catches your eye.
I had already planned on going for a walk today. Later this morning in fact and yes, I would have my cameras with me as normal. That is what I do now in retirement. I take pictures when I get the opportunity. I write, draw, paint, and carve also.
The problem in fulfilling this request is that I usually do the daily prompt between 2 and 5am. Not the ideal walking time on a cool first morning in June. Kind of dark also.
So, I’ll share a photo I took on a walk recently. And as always, my intent is as the sign says below. Framing Life’s Best Views is my mission. Along with some levity.
What’s the first book you ever finished and still remember to this day. – Asks the daily prompt.
That is a long time ago to remember the first book I ever read. I still have a few old books on my shelf that may have been the first I remember. The first is Operation Deep Freeze. From my dad that is signed by the author Rear Admiral George J. Dufek who he served under. Dad went on operation Deep Freeze I & II.
It’s also signed by several of the captains of the ships on those voyages. Those go over a few pages, so I just shot the author’s signature.
The other book is American Sports Hero’s by Fred Katz.
What’s the most profound piece of advice you’ve been given? Did you take it? – Interesting questions from the daily prompt.
A wise person once said to me at work. “Mike, you know this area in and out and you love it. You’re an excellent teacher and skilled but I need you to let go of it and be involved in new things that keep us growing.
Yes, I took it and it helped me take some more risks in the future that worked out well.
So, my advice to you is to go for it.
Its green and the town is trying to get going. Photo by Mike Hartley
The daily prompt asks – If you had an unlimited budget for 24 hours, what would you do?
I’m cranky and don’t like questions like this. Spending time in fantasy land instead of doing something productive is counterproductive to me.
Thinking like this fuel’s addictions like gambling. That goal of money and greed isn’t good. But it seems that is the focus of so many of us.
Even if you were thinking of doing good for 24 hours that is an enormous task. And it’s too much responsibility for me to even map out in post this morning. Plus, my grandchildren will be here within the hour, and I have to turn into Mr. Entertainment.
Me, I’m going to stay and spend within my income budget and try to make the world a better place and enjoy the people around me today.
Photo by Mike HartleyPhoto by Mike HartleyPhoto by Mike HartleyPhoto by Mike Hartley
What’s a show that had the perfect series finale? – Asks the daily prompt.
I was always a big fan of the show M*A*S*H and thought that final was good. There were two others that I also liked. The Newhart show and Cheers had good finales.
Of course, Derek Jeter last game at Yankee Stadium was also great with a walk-off hit to win the game in the 9th.
It’s not over till we say it’s over. Photo by Mike Hartley
