It’s nice to have time to just horse around. Be it 5 minutes or 5 hours like I have now in retirement. At work I remember many times taking just a few seconds or minutes to take the pressure off and make those around me laugh. Being it was a pressure cooker, it seemed to help. Most of us took that approach so it was manageable.
At times with some though it was frowned upon. Like when Directors came by. Most mid-level managers who knew if the work was being done the best, allowed and enjoyed our banter and occasional antics/pranks.
From the stables at Old South Carriage Company. Photo by Mike Hartley
Today I’m sitting here between chores around the homestead. Storing hoses, hammock frames, patio furniture, blowing off decks and raking leaves. There might even be time to cut the yard for the last time. If not today definitely tomorrow.
Stable supplies. Photo by Mike Hartley
My better half has been working hard also. So, it’s a household in action. But as I type this, my foot and back are having a conversation about the continued pace.
Random Thoughts of the Day
If I can make picking up the camera and using it every day a permanent habit, I’m going to have a lot more work to share.
If I didn’t enjoy the whole process of photography from prep to shooting to processing to editing to displaying, I wouldn’t do each of them. It does take some time though.
I’m relaxed, I’m enjoying life, I’m working on my goals, hobbies and loving people each day. I’ve also never been so worried about a civil war breaking out, than I am now.
Flying up the Chesapeake Bay yesterday at sunset was beautiful.
The daily prompt asks me – Share a few recent shots from your camera roll, no context needed.
Oh, hell yeah. As an amateur photog being asked to share from your camera roll generates excitement. The trouble with that is I still use a camera and manually download that to my computer. That most recent roll is well over 300 shots. Sorry, after using a camera for over 5 decades I just can’t get used to using that phone to do that function.
The context of these shots will become clear over the next few days as I share more from that batch.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I really should get used to using that phone for more photography.
Photo by Mike Hartley
There are a lot of advantages to using a phone for photos, but also some disadvantages.
Photo by Mike Hartley
A quick skim through sites talking about shots taken with conventional cameras is under 10%. Guess I’m showing my age.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Maybe as I get older, I’ll get tired of carrying those heavy DSLRs.
I’m just catching up this evening with the blog. We were away a few days playing tourist in Charleston South Carolina. What a beautiful place. I’ve got about 400 images to download and edit. I hope I have a few good ones. We did a ton of walking and eating and sightseeing in 4 1/2 days. The weather was perfect, sunny with highs in the mid-70s and upper 50s or low 60s at night, which is nice for us older folks.
We sampled carriage rides, galleries galore, shopping, museums, waterfront dining, plantations and fountains. We walked many miles each day and it felt great. And it’s a good thing we did because this is a great food paradise. It was one of the cleanest towns I’ve been to. It also felt safe no matter where we went.
The style, color and design of the architecture was unbelievable. The people are friendly and helpful. It all made for a great trip with my better half.
At the corner of King and Queen Streets. Could this be royalty in the carriage? Photo by Mike Hartley
When it comes to writing in my blog I’ve done a fair amount. I’m in my 12th year and have no intention of slowing down. WordPress tells me I’ve already used 1,459,000 words in the years of blogging with them. That sounds like way too many.
I see the average word count for a book is between 70-120K. Jeez, I’ve written several books, it appears by the numbers I rang up in WP. I didn’t start the blog, to write. It was going to be a photography blog. It still is but the opportunity to ramble on was irresistible. It would probably be more popular if I just stuck to photos.
Of course, writing isn’t about total number of words. It’s how those words and thoughts are crafted and put together. Sometimes few words are the best words. In some ways writing is like photography. I’m capturing something that might send a message or evoke a feeling or communicate or connect to another individual.
Improving the content means I have to improve my writing. There are so many eloquent blogs I follow and see that are so well written. It’s intimidating and inspiring at the same time.
And for me it does come down to time. I got a late start on my creative interest and still struggle to make the time I’d like to devote to it. I’m doing it though, increasing my practice and knowledge all the time.
I’m starting a few books and while that may be way premature, when you’re in your senior years the time for thinking about doing something has well past, and the time to do it is now.
I know I’m not a writer yet. Might never turn into a good one but that won’t stop me.
Things I’ve learned so far in my writing journey.
I write best late at night and early in the mornings.
My photos inspire my post ideas.
My random thoughts from day to day are fun to come up with.
Writing so far these years has always been fun.
I wish I had an editor and proofreader.
Sometimes I do feel I should spend more time on other artistic interests and less on writing.
Writing at times is therapeutic.
There is a ton of stuff in life, I don’t write.
I think maybe my grandkids in the future, might read about their Papa and pick up an important tip here and there.
Where to live. One of the toughest questions in life. My better half and I were discussing the choices we have made. In the beginning, it was being close enough to our parents to help them. Then to be close enough to our own children to help them out and be able to see our grandchildren.
Would it be nice to live at the beach or out in the country a bit more, sure would. But only for a short time. Because the distance to loved ones and friends would be greater and create a whole new set of challenges I’d be uncomfortable with.
I love being part of my grandchildren’s lives. It’s tough sometimes but very gratifying. I know being a parent wore me out. Trying to keep up with grandkids requires some resources you have to dig deep for as a senior. I’ve injured myself a few times thinking I’m a kid when playing with them.
But oh, the joy in hearing them laugh or the determination you see in them to get around you to destroy the Lincoln Log tower I just built without them seeing. Or how they settle in your arms as you read them a story or 10. Or the chance to help mold them and impart knowledge and skills.
I’ve watched the dynamics of families who live close to their children and ones who live great distances. I’m making no judgement on other decisions, but I see at times those who do live that distance, longing for their children’s and grandchild’s contact.
I see the 2022 it reported: Nearly six in 10 young adults live within 10 miles of where they grew up, and eight in 10 live within 100 miles, according to a new study by researchers at the U.S. Census Bureau and Harvard University.
All I know is when I get a text saying, “do you want to meet at the park?” it’s nice to say yes and be there.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There are those who have to finish first, and can’t just enjoy being in the game and contest.
Excitement and anticipation. College basketball season is about to begin again.
The more, bad decisions you make, the tougher it is to move past them.
Our ability to ignore how fragile life is can be remarkable.
Being up while most are asleep is like having the world to yourself. I used to drive home at the 3-4am window after getting off work in some early years commuting back and forth from DC. For highways usually jammed with traffic it would be only the odd car at best every few miles. It was great.
When I worked the overnight shift years later, usually I didn’t take my break until the last edition was released to the pressroom which was around 2am. Sometimes I would wander the streets downtown which were jammed with life during the day but eerily empty overnight. With only the homeless dotting the sidewalks and grates.
Of course, you can meet some not so well-intentioned animals in the evening. I’ve walked out the door to a fox, snake, raccoons and other creatures of the evening. I’ve also seen some danger when walking the streets of DC at night and other towns.
One of my interests is in night photography. I haven’t done much in that area as I’d like, which I hope to change.
I’m not out and about like I used to be. Might have to change that and start venturing out more again.
A damp, overcast, cool day at the beach still beats just about anything else.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Who is the real “Enemy of the People”
Boy when Aerosmith was on as a band, they were one of the best. I also witnessed a few shows that were plagued by equipment or people failures. But when they are right you can’t help but shake your body and try to imitate Stevens screams. I still love listening to them.
A fact about my state that I didn’t know about till today – Maryland is the only state in the United States that has an outright ban on the possession and use of flamethrowers.
Working the fields which I believe are part of the University of Maryland Extension off Homewood Road just before Folly Quarter. One of my favorite back roads to get home, when I worked in Columbia. Anything to avoid that traffic on Rt 29.
Much respect for our agricultural workers. And to the University of Maryland for keeping that expanse of the county working, beautiful and open.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Speaking of work. This blog is work. The kind I like doing and get a charge out of because it’s my creation. The only thing I’ve used recently was to let it generate metadata which I was always too lazy to do before this.
But any images and writing are my work. No AI manipulation. If I take a photo and do anything other than crop and do a slight brightness adjustment for my lack of skill getting the right exposure. If I do something it will be marked photo illustration. I’m not against doing those things. They create beautiful work.
But I came from the industry that was guided by photojournalism ethics. Adjusting reality wasn’t tolerated. So that is where I tend to live most of the time.
I use spell check to help me with my poor grammar skills, but I don’t let it write and keep things in my own words when it feels more like I speak. Even though that might not be correct all the time.
Letting machines do some work I’m all for. Letting it take the place of artist in any form is a loss for all of us in what that person isn’t creating from inside themselves.
AI scares the crap out of me. The internet before AI showed how easily people can be manipulated. Speaking to AI systems, taking my prescription refill order freaks me out. It won’t be long that I’m longing to speak to a real person. Whoops, that has already happened when I try to call Verizon.
Well, back to my simple life without AI as much as possible.
Do you set personal goals for yourself? – Asks the daily prompt.
Yes, I set a lot of goals. It’s fun and keeps me on track for accomplishing things. Some are easy, some are hard. Some I work on for a while and then change the goal. Some I even accomplish.
I used to let my own goals overwhelm me at times when I wasn’t getting things done at the speed I wanted. I’ve stopped that. I get done what I get done.
The daily prompt with one of those questions I have no use for this morning. It asks – Which book’s world would be the absolute worst to live in?
My first thought was reality is usually stranger than fiction and the world in the coming future is certainly going to have more struggles than we have today. So, these could be the good old days we are in now. I’m going to try to improve it for my kids and grandkids in the time I have left.
My better half says we have a free day today. I like the sound of that and to quote a good friend of mine, “all up.”
Some good music is pumping through my ears; I’m almost finished editing a shoot of 191 shots and about to upload them. Once that is done, I’m back on the treadmill for some heart exercise.
After a few minutes of thought, my question is – Are you seeing more people in your orbit under greater stress and are you overwhelmed yourself?
In our group of family, friends and acquaintances we are seeing more people struggling. Hard-working people, educated people, even retired people who have worked hard. And it’s not just financial struggles. It’s that atmosphere of tension and aggressiveness that is troubling.
People wondering if their profession is going to be around and if they will have to learn new skills and start over again. My children are grown but 2 of them are teachers. I have grandchildren that go to school. Imagine being nervous of family being in school because you know it’s no longer safe.
Just taking a drive can be a brush with death every time you buckle up because of an ever-increasing number of idiots and selfish F’s. Or is that food safe at the store now? And what germ or virus is lurking around the corner for our next health crisis.
Then again, the suns out, it will be warm enough to put the top down, and a good song has my spirits flying high and the hope it to make the best of the day.
I’m not overwhelmed, but I sense it on the horizon.
Remember to enjoy the colors of the season because soon it will look like this.
It’s been 13 years since I’ve paid a visit to Vietnam Veterans Memorial. We need to get back and see this and other sites in DC. But waiting till spring seems like a good call with the possible election turmoil coming up.
A moving place. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m glad I go back through some older folders and find some shots I haven’t shared before. DC is so close I should take advantage of the photographic opportunities more often. I’m not going to miss them like I did this year.
If these walls don’t give you pause, I’m not sure what will. Photo by Mike Hartley
Unfortunately, it’s time to balance out the day and take care of a few chores around the homestead. Covering the AC unit, bringing in some firewood, finishing some caulking and schedule some electrical work.
I love animals. They look so deeply into your eyes. I love how they read and react to you. Especially dogs. They get so in tune with their dads and moms. And the kids if they are around.
All four paws and a face. Photo by Mike Hartley
Been a very busy day and feeling good about the progress made. Learning my new photo site and tools. Also, a bit of research for a project. Well actually a lot of research. Hope to relax a bit and then back to work later tonight.
Being a blog is part of the new photo site I’m going to use that to kind of track my progress and activity. And if I learn something along the way I’ll share it.
Utilizing the tools I have has not been one of my strong points. I have enough problems making the time to create content and read and view other efforts which inspire me to do better.
Winter is on the way through which means I’ll be indoors a lot more and hopefully end the year strong and get a great jump on 2027. I can’t believe I mentioned 2027 but it will be here before we know it.
Did you ever have a day you just felt like losing yourself. Letting life take you where it will. Today feels like that. I woke up early and worked on a few posts. I’m almost finished editing the 500+ photos I took from the car show in Ocean City and uploading them.
I feel like getting some exercise so as soon as I get up from here, I’m hitting the weight and treadmill.
The cameras are fully charged and ready to capture some fall color and local life today. And by noon it will be warm enough to drive with the top down.
It’s leftovers day for food and I don’t care in the least because I have something good to eat. Knowing people that struggle with that simple thing (lack of food) keeps me appreciative.
Spending some time reading and writing also sounds appealing. What I don’t want to spend time reading is that Medicare and You 2027 book that came.
I might take the Dremel tools outside and work on some wood. And I put a fresh piece of watercolor paper on the easel.
All this involves ignoring other chores. I wonder what I’ll get away with doing, before responsibilities are acknowledged. I have my irresponsible days though.
I hope yours is a good day.
I won’t be cruising past this sign for a few months now. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
I see a lot of opportunities for moving the bar today.
The coming months of political fighting will make a serious attempt to ruin the holiday season.
What amazes me is that so many so-called Americans are still willing to vote for the Putin/Trump ticket.
Time to crank up the fireplace or the firepit tonight.
Only one more cut of the lawn anticipated. I always feel like I have won against mother nature after surviving another season of lawn care. And then comes winter and it knows I have no power tools other than me and a shovel and she wins again.
The daily prompt asks – If you could switch lives with a famous person for a week, who would it be and why?
My first thought was why would I want to do that. One being away from my life for a week means I might miss something important in my own life. Second, I don’t aspire to fame. It comes with a price. And even for a week that’s means with the good comes the bad.
Your loss of privacy, the constant demands of fame. With that fame sometimes comes fortune and with that comes everybody who wants something or a part of it.
You have to sort out people who want to be true friends and those who want to be next to famous people. That part is easy now, if people hang with me, they are my friends.
Even if I play along it would be very hard to choose. I thought about my favorite baseball player right now, Aaron Judge. I thought it would be cool to experience that natural talent and skill he has, plus he seems like a nice person. But then I thought about coming to bat in Yankee Stadium and the few drunks would say something stupid and I’d respond, “hey fat boy, come on down here and do better” and I’d ruin his good reputation which I don’t want to do.
So next.
I love comedy and thought about experiencing the brilliance of writing, creating and performing and getting those great laughs. And then I thought about the tortured souls of three of my favorites Robin Williams, John Belushi and Richard Pryor and I’m not sure I want that pain.
Next
Ah, Muhammad Ali – One of the most known people on the planet at one time. I’d want to know what it’s like to have that motivation and drive he had. That focus and physical talent and skill combined in the ring. But also, that mindset in life and following his own path. Speaking what was on his mind and following his own convictions. Of course, before all those blows took its toll, which is a heavy price to pay for those early years.
Well, I’m back to my original answer. None. For the simple reason that it’s not specifically specified which week of their lives you would be switching with. For example, if I wanted to be Richard Pryor, I wouldn’t want to be the week he set himself on fire and nearly died.
So, I’ll continue happily in anonymity. I wouldn’t want to miss that facetime with my children and grandchildren for any fame.
Now if you want to give me a week at a bed and breakfast with a front porch overlooking the ocean and a sandy 100-foot path to it, I’m all in.
Over this long lifetime I’ve handled many stresses in both good and bad ways. In truth it’s managed me at times in life. When I reacted poorly to stress, I sometimes used drinking and drugs.
I realized life was about managing stress. Like a wise friend shared with me, you can’t control a lot of things, only how you react to them. Life is one continuous stress test.
Being older and retired, a lot of those big stresses have passed or changed, and some new ones took their place.
The major ones have passed in some ways. but also changed in some significant ways. For instance, the stress of being a young parent through infancy till they are getting a college degree and one day are saying goodbye to you and their home. But you never stop being a parent or caring or worrying about them. And now we stress with the grandchildren.
The stress of the job is gone. Answering to someone else has passed. But I’ve always answer to myself, and I can be a tough taskmaster. Answering to someone else was a major stressor. I have trouble with authority when I don’t agree with it. And some who knew me professionally might have thought I was outspoken. Which usually meant saying what others lacked the stones to say.
A huge stress, especially in this area, is the daily commute. I avoid rush hours like the plague now. That is a stress I’m so glad is passed because I love to drive, but those 100-mile commutes to the middle of Washington and back were brutal.
The stress of being a caregiver for parents last years is a major one a lot of us go through. But when it’s over you miss going shopping for them, picking up after them, taking them to the doctor’s and caring for them.
The financial pressures are still here, that is a lifetime one for most of us.
The stress of health becoming an issue and eventually leaving this world. Health is the most important thing and it’s what you realize and stress about the most as a senior. Both for yourself and especially those significant others growing very old with you.
The stress of trying to have the energy of a young parent when watching grandchildren.
Thankfully I haven’t had the stress a lot of seniors go through when they retire. I’m loving it.
My stress reducers
Music
Get in a stick shift car with rear wheel drive. Pull up the light, focus, bring RPM up, put in 1st gear and let that clutch go.
Exercise
Tell the boss where to go.
Good friends you can unwind with.
A motorcycle
I guess I could have reduced your stress by making this post a little shorter.
Don’t Stress over the coming Holidays. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m late getting this out and I hope an important person to me sees this post.
I mentioned earlier something special on Monday happened to me. But the story starts a good while back when I did a post about my father’s burial flag from Arlington and I needed to get a case for it. Out of the blue a nice one shows up anonymously, which I immediately filled and put in a special spot where I have maybe 30 or so 8x10s of Arlington National Cemetery.
Until Monday I didn’t know the generous person behind this wonderful gesture. I had already questioned all those close to me when it came a year or more ago and I was stumped.
When I went outside to put the 5-gallon gas can in the car to go fill again for mowing and I noticed a note and a pack of photo printing paper beside it.
A quick summary of that note. Bob was here from far out of the state of Maryland and wanted to meet me. He was in town for a 50th HS reunion. He said he followed my blog and was the one who sent me the flag case. WOW. I was blown away. Fortunately, he left his phone number, and I called him back and he was able to come by for a visit.
We had a wonderful talk for at least an hour, probably 2, and found we shared a lot in common. I’ll be calling him back again and thanking him for the visit and wonderful gifts that I cherish.
This action Bob has taken reminded me in his kindness that I should also pass it on. I’m going to sit down this week and spread some love to some of my favorite charities. Then I’m going to go buy some toys for a friend’s children’s hospital charity.
And then I might find a stranger who needs something.
Thank you Bob for the case and visit. Photo by Mike Hartley
I always feel frustrated when I get a late start to the day. Be it missing the morning sunrise, the first post of the day delivered late in the morning or just waking up later than I normally do and not getting my morning exercise in. So, my Sunday start hasn’t been the best one by far.
My mind was willing yesterday and last night, but the body wasn’t. It was the first time in a while that it stopped me in my tracks repeatedly. I was a very uncomfortable day. I made a lot of progress despite that. I backed off on the physical work a bit and used the computer.
Today is a day I’m going to power through to the best of my ability. Because that is what we do, because the alternative is to give in or give up. And the list of things to do for the house and yard is a list that just keeps growing so giving up or in, can’t be considered.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge eastbound span. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s good to know that you aren’t a good gambler before you go gambling, it can save you a lot of money.
I was not prepared for that cold this morning. I’m not putting my shorts away yet, but I will be careful stepping outside in them.
If you find joy in creating, you have unlocked an important part of your life.
Seeing a granddaughter give her mother flowers with pride is a nice moment.
Taking better advantage of every opportunity to create is getting more important every day.
The daily prompt asks – If you could go back in time and give your younger self advice, what would it be? I feel like I answered this question before. And when I search for the word advice on my blog, I see many questions answered on advice for the younger me and others.
So, I’ll pose this question another way today.
Thinking forward, what advice would you give today for a senior citizen, like me.
Do it today. You’re not going to feel any better tomorrow or the next day.
Appreciate your senses and memories, for they will slowly fade.
Know that each meeting with family and friends is more special than the last.
Pursue what you want to do. Act on your ideas and don’t stop.
Share your feelings now before the opportunity is lost.
We are really entering the fall season now. Don’t worry, I’m fully aware that I have to work on my negative attitude towards the cooler seasons. I can’t guarantee it won’t sneak out from time to time, but I’ll try to keep it to a minimum.
I tried another transition today but I’m not having much success moving my photo site to a new system. So, I asked for help from them. The start of this process has not been inspiring so far. But a few hours later we are successful and the transtion to learning new software and processes begins again.
There is a close friend going through some difficult times and transitions. I think he is getting to the point where he is finally realizing that he must help himself and that he has some difficult times ahead of him. Not a pleasant place to be but he’s fully aware he put himself there.
We’ve tried repeatedly to help but it’s fallen on deaf ears or opportunities, help and advice have been squandered. And while we will never abandon him, there are limits to what we will do for him now.
There is a worry that we might not have a smooth and orderly transition after the coming election. That would have very dire consequences for this country.
Soon there will be a transition among close friends. One will be moving a distance away, still within driving distance but not the 10-15 minutes we all have had for all our lives. This makes some significant changes for our regular weekly vigil. It’s going to be interesting to see how we adapt.
Transition in seasons means it’s almost time to winterize the outdoor equipment.
It also means I transition from having the top down on my car to using seat warmers. I park my fun machine most of the winter season and use my old beater car for the nasty days. Another seasonal transition I don’t care for.
Color by Nature. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
With the money he’s spending you would think Elon Musk was running for office in Texas.
I smile as I take the backroads that go over the Baltimore Beltway when it’s at a standstill, which is most of the time.
I think the only thing that will change the minds of politicians to act on gun issues is if their own children are shot in school. Because it seems that as long as it happens to other people, it’s okay.
I see Trump said he doesn’t go around mocking people. I kind of agree with him. He doesn’t go around it. That is what he does all day long.
Indian summer returned here in the mid-Atlantic for a few days. I was floating like a butterfly on the back roads of the county enjoying the warmth. A day of mowing in the sunshine with just a tee shirt and shorts. As opposed to the last cutting or two of the season with a big sweatsuit and jacket on.
It’s going to hit 80 today and I doubt we will be seeing that number or higher till next spring. Just typing that depresses me. But I’ll hold onto the past few days and the memories of a nice summer with family and friends.
My neighbor’s cat in the background thinking about playing with the butterfly. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Morning
Oh, the irony of today’s Fox News Poll. Just under 90% of their respondents said they were extremely concerned about government corruption, putting it ahead of inflation, healthcare and other issues.
Test of endurance and strength today. Yep, we’re watching grandchildren.
The daily prompt asks – Which celebrity would you love to meet, and what would you talk about?
I would love to have met Robin Williams. I would love to talk about his natural gifts of humor and how he crafted it over his life. I’d like to make him laugh unexpectedly and know him as a person instead of a celebrity.
I’d be interested if he wished he had a more private life instead of the celebrity? If he ever thought about just stopping performing.
Also, his feelings on how drugs affected the comedy writing and performances. Not stories about what transpired but if he thought parts were better or worse because of it.
I’d ask who his favorite people were to work with. I’d ask what he thought were the best parts of other comics.
Comedy is an art form that is not only good for the soul, it can also save lives. I’m sure people have told him how they have been pulled out of despair or saved by making them laugh again and turn a corner the positive way. Is that a good feeling or a weight?
I’d ask if the hospital visits, he made in private to those in bad shape, were the most rewarding performances for himself personally?
I’d ask him how he liked his burgers cooked, what kind of cheese and if he wanted grilled onions.
Conversation and Food. Always a good combo. Photo by Mike Hartley
The weekend took more out of me than I thought. Because I didn’t make it past the pregame show for the MNF game. I never sleep all that well when I’m away from home and even though it was just a few days that was enough to throw me off.
Monday was a special day, and I want to digest it before I share the great visit I had in a post later today.
Like this Camaro I’m coming to the junction of the fun of shooting the car show this past weekend, and the task of editing 500+ shots and the effort. A labor of love.
BigBlock Camaro in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
A task that is both fun and challenging due to the volume. Funny thing is that I wish I had doubled my shooting. But I have that feeling every time I go out and raise the camera, and I hope I never lose it.
Most of the cars at this show were more straight-line monsters. And while there are few feelings like being pinned against the seat as one of these feats of engineering roars off the starting line and down 1320 feet. That’s the quarter mile race for those of you who aren’t car nuts.
Life isn’t a straight line. It’s filled with many twists and turns. Too often I’ve gone through life where twists and turns present a chance for new opportunities or time to ask yourself important questions and look at direction choices and I’ve missed them. Everyone probably has at least one or two.
In some ways life is easy. It teaches you many lessons along the way. The question is do you want to live life learning the same ones over and over again or do you want to move onto the next one.
I’m hardheaded and had to repeat a few over time. Thankfully wisdom comes and progress is made.
So, what I’m learning finally is how to be comfortable and happy with myself and what I accomplish each day.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
It felt good to positively touch someone close to us that needed it this past weekend.
Music is a huge part of my life. It’s like my daily surfing time for my mind and inspiration. And sometimes sadness.
This office needs a good cleaning and organizing.
The excitement on my granddaughter’s face when she saw me last night is still a nice feeling this morning.
A great album title (Get Your Wings) by the group Aerosmith but also a good thing to do in life. Everyone has something special about them. Find your joy and pursue it.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Like these birds I’m flying low and close to home today. And like them I’m going where the wind takes me. It’s the one day I can pace myself and relax a bit. It’s too wet to mow so I’ll do that Tuesday. There are many other chores to take its place not that I’m in a hurry to get to them.
Usual stuff, like getting the compressor out and fixing a couple of low tires. Blowing off decks from leaves, doing some caulking. You know, harry homeowner crap. It’s good for me because it gets me vertical and out of this seat till the next creative urge hits.
My better half and I were at Ocean City Maryland this past Thursday to Saturday afternoon enjoying the Endless Summer Car Show. A wonderful dinner with good friends on the way home and all unpacked and ready to resume activities at mission control.
I threw the cover on the car after it cooled off from that long drive. Word is a monsoon is on the way today. At least that is what I heard in passing. I’ve been overdosing on the smell of high-octane fuel being burned and the roar of high-performance engines.
Given the perfect weather for the first 3 days of the show, attendance seemed to be very good. There are thousands of beautiful works of art there. Maybe the most crowded I’ve seen the fall show in the last few years. Just my humble opinion. Traffic Saturday was nuts. I loved Thursday and Friday though. Everyone was wearing a path up and down Coastal Highway and Baltimore and Philadelphia Ave.
The shows at the inlet and convention center are great but the action is on the streets, day and night.
My cameras were out and firing away, probably 500+ shots. I already know my favorite. And for a change of pace, it wasn’t a car but a couple in it. It was from early this morning. Part of the show is the boardwalk parade. Ocean City has a very long boardwalk, almost 3 miles. Cars line up from the inlet to 27th street where they enter the boardwalk single file and a slow profession takes place.
I had done a bit of shooting along the boardwalk but decided to walk down the street where the line to get on the boardwalk ran. I had probably walked about 10-15 blocks as the cars slowly moved up and I walked down capturing them from different angles. I moved to the center island separating the 2 lanes north and south.
Photo by Mike Hartley
People were saying thanks and giving me thumbs up as I complimented them on their ride. I had just finished a shot of an old Plymouth above, and I looked down for a second to change settings and looked up and this young lady who was about to burst with joy looked out the window at me and I’m assuming here pointed to her engagement ring.
Normally this is the last vehicle I probably would have photographed. But I’m so glad I was able to capture this moment and their joy. Congratulations to both of you and have a great future together.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m glad I saw this young couple in love and at an event where there is a lot of love between all the people who love cars/trucks and some things I can’t describe.
People are willing to talk and share their passions for building, driving, racing, modifying, painting, styling with unbelievable skill sets with almost whoever asks. And while the couple above is just starting out, most attendees were older couples like my better half and myself.
In other words, lots of senior citizens which leads me to think about another post on just that. What will happen to all these classics and the high dollar value attached to them when the owners are passing and the market for these maybe shrinks because I don’t see the younger generation taking up the interest in the classic cars. They want the new tech.
And before I forget, thanks to my better half for sharing one of my favorite things to do.
Oh, be pre-warned. The likelihood of car photos making into some posts for the next weeks is high.
The color inside and the reflection of the outside made this a complete window for me. I love looking out windows. Be it the front windshield of my car or the kitchen window overlooking the woods behind my home or the screen door window to the front yard and porch that squirrels and deer seem to visit each day.
Is your window looking good? Photo by Mike Hartley
Every year near this time I remember a window I had at work for almost 2 decades that looked out over a preschool next door. And for Halloween they would parade all the young ones in costume around the parking lot circle which was right outside out big window. Seems like the whole company would be glued to any rear window in the building on the second floor for that event.
Some windows come with natural color, others get help. Photo by Mike Hartley
Inside the Academy Art Museum in Easton Maryland.
Some windows get a little extra glass treatment. Photo by Mike Hartley
This shot above was from inside a great store in St Michaels Maryland called Captains Cottage Antiques and Shore Decor. We always stop and shop here.
In need of some loving care. Photo by Mike Hartley
I love windows. They have character. I saw this one walking between some older buildings. I guess it had storm shutters at one time by the hinges left behind.
That chill makes for some good sleep. Haven’t used a blanket in a while. 40 degrees out this morning was too cold for this early in October. My instinct is to start to prepare for hibernation. Must be the bear in me. An instinct I have to fight against all winter long.
So, I got extra busy to warm up the basement and get the day off to a good start. A few posts here, some exercise and off to a doctor’s appointment and back home. Funny timing my best friend was at the doctor’s also this morning.
The day is filled with opportunities. I’ve made use of a few already. Had time to drop off my vote, hit the pharmacy and capture a few new images.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Back at my favorite town, Ellicott City.
Photos by Mike Hartley
Nice day for waders.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Tis the season.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I should get one of these. Maybe people would tailgate me less.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m going with the flow this week like this guy.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Lzzy Hale reminds me of Janis Joplin. I saw her cover an old Bad Company tune and it was incredible.
We could be only a few weeks away from civil war. Don’t underestimate his desire to stay in total control.
If Aliens arrived tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d ask them? – I dislike these type questions from the daily prompt.
Okay, I’ll play along.
What’s with the big heads?
How many galaxies per gallon does that thing get?
Why did you decide to land on the armpit of the universe?
You think that thing is fun, let me take you for a ride in my Miata.
Well, you landed in Maryland, let me teach you how to eat crabs from the Chesapeake Bay. Also, you’re going to need special driving lessons for this state.
But seriously, maybe there are some questions that we should ask ourselves each day.
Did I touch base with family and friends and tell them I love them.
Did I improve others day.
Did I respect my environment.
Did I learn something.
Did I share something I know or a skill.
Did I smile and say kind things.
Did I accomplish something.
Did I have fun.
Did I do things people will remember me fondly for.
Sunset over the Rt 90 bridge coming into Ocean City. Photo by Mike Hartley
What’s the most underrated life skill? – Asks the daily prompt.
This is a tough one; I’m torn between 3 of them. Decision Making – Problem Solving and even though I don’t see this on many lists I’ll add Common Sense.
I was going to say Empathyand Compassion, but a large segment of the population has ditched this ability.
Here are a couple of underrated life skills some might not think of and some of my personal favorites off the top of my head this morning.
I’m glad I grew up thinking without the help of the internet. It taught me to not give up and find the answers myself.
Coping with loss is a unique life skill I haven’t mastered yet.
Knowing your circuit breaker panel.
Being married to the same person all your life and being happy. Well, most of the time at least.
Being a good driver is an underrated skill. It’s kept me alive hundreds of times.
Knowing that your friends know that you can be counted on.
Listening to doctors instead of politicians.
Having the courage and drive to not give up and pursue your dreams.
Swinging a hammer without hitting fingers.
Having a great memory is so important.
Go ahead and be outspoken, most don’t have the courage to say what is on their mind and they need a voice.
Knowing where the flashlight is when the power goes out.
Don’t go through life without having cut loose a few times.
Being able to create an image, story, painting, song, film. engine or anything creative and beautiful is an underrated skill.
Pit crew – skills combined and multiplied. Photo by Mike Hartley
The blue skies have returned to central Maryland today and I’m loving it. Light lifts my spirits. So do these warming temps and breeze. It’s going to take a bit to dry out but were on the way.
Kites off Ocean City beach. Photo by Mike Hartley
One second, I feel the need to get a lot accomplished today. The next minute I’m fine with whatever I get done today. Now that is what I call balance.
To be in great spirits on a Monday morning is pretty much par for the course now. I’m trying to decide what hats I want to wear today. I was thinking about cooking being my better half has been doing all of it lately. But I think we might have dinner out. I’m going to put on my painter hat later, along with my photographer cap.
But I’m starting to get the itch for a real hat and wearing more than just the floppy beach hat or baseball caps.
Tomorrow is landscaping hat day.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s funny what you develop attachments to, over time.
I feel like I’m always calling in a prescription. Why can’t they just give me a year’s supply?
The leaves are changing too fast already.
Don’t hesitate to share it, nobody will see the greatness if it’s left in your drafts folder.
I should trim my beard before I’m mistaken for a member of ZZ TOP.
What’s the best way to explore a new city? – Asks the daily prompt.
Do some investigation on what you would like to see and do before going. Have plans for good and bad weather. Study transportation and food. The less spur of the moment things you have to decide on the better.
Then go and have a good time. Be flexible. Ask people when you get there about your assumptions. When you’re there note places, you would like to go next time.
And don’t forget to be a human being. Respect local culture and traditions. Be courteous and not that ugly American.
Oh, don’t forget getting there and back. We discovered the train and that was the perfect solution for this city. We will be taking it to other cities.
Things worked out for us on our first visit to NYC earlier this year.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Sometimes it’s helpful to get an overview of the city.
What’s a moment in your life that made you feel truly alive? – asks the daily prompt.
Wow, I guess I’m lucky. I had a lot of things pop to mind when I read that question. Falling in love, watching my children being born, 145 mph on a motorcycle, holding each of my grandchildren for the first time and every time I see them.
The hour ride with the top down yesterday I was feeling truly alive again. And again, this morning when I woke up, thankful as I am each day I open my eyes and I’m able to get vertical.
If you ever rang a bell at a hospital, you feel alive. Maybe not your best, but you’re on your way.
I like finding something each day to make me feel truly alive.
Another day’s light passes below the horizon. What a great day it was. And there is still time to enjoy some fun this evening. There is still time for me to get my Thursday Doors entry done. Some images to download from last evening. And I put the tripod/monopod in the trunk so maybe I’ll venture out later for some night shots.
Dock and Gazebo at Fager’s Island in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
If I manage to get back to the beach this year, I’ll certainly visit this site in person at this time of day. Of course, after finishing a fine meal inside.
Back to some photo editing I go. If you can call it that with the slack tools I have.
The genie grants you a wish. What is it? – A question from the daily prompt
More wishes.
Just kidding. The first thought that rolled through my mind was health and happiness for my family. And then my personal selfish wish that summer was just starting again.
Now a question for you all. How much time do you spend wishing?
For me it’s a fleeting thing.
Oh, I wish I had got two scoops instead of one. It would be nice to have that 69 Camaro as one goes by. When I was working, I would wish it wasn’t Monday again.
If it’s something I’m going to spend time wishing for I’ll spend it working on that. Like my art. Usually at the end of the day, I end up wishing I was a better artist and then I’m inspired when I wake up to get to work on being a better one.
Baltimore Harbor with Domino Sugar plant in background. Photo by Mike Hartley
How is life treating you? A friend reminded me of something important about it today. Most of life you have little control over, except how you react to it.
A beautiful day in Maryland to end the month with. Why each month seems busier than the last is always a wonder to me. I guess that means I’m having a good time. This month was filled with both good and hard times.
I enjoyed the view below and more like this in the state of Maryland. We ventured into Pennsylvania for a 90th birthday party for an aunt. In addition to 9/11 being my mom’s birthday it was the 25th anniversary of the tragic 9/11. I spent some time remembering that event. How the country came together.
Hopefully we can all start pulling in the same direction together again.
We spent time with our children and grandchildren. Saw another grandchild start school. We had a wonderful day on the Chesapeake Bay with my best friend and his wife. Attended a music festival and a funeral.
Luckily no doctor’s appointments and only one dentist appointment. Did some pet sitting and got our vaccines.
Not enough time devoted to my hobbies which I’ll be on a mission to correct in October.
St Michaels Maryland. Photo by Mike Hartley
Today I have to finish transitioning my photo site between some home chores. There is much to be done on that front to prepare for the seasonal changes. Yesterday was the first of several more cuts that will involve chopping up the multitude of leaves that fall.
One chore I don’t miss is winterizing a pool. One, it’s hard work and two it’s depressing.
In some ways it was a great month, in others it was very disappointing.
I worry about a good friend who had significant loss. I worry about another friend who’s near rock bottom.
I’m all pumped after that Yankees win last night. Also, something is breaking through the clouds for the first time in days and that means I can do my sun worshiping thing. And we can’t do that with a dirty car so washing that is job 1 this morning so the top can be down later.
It’s a great day to get the cameras out also and work on some more nature shots.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Better start catching some species before they head south for the winter. That is a contrast in winter. Leaves are down and the view through the woods is clear. But so, fewer birds in the winter.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Of course, these deer are a fixture in all seasons. I feel like my yard and woods are a hotel for them for as much as they sleep and rest here. I guess they feel safe.
After witnessing the lack of movement for emergency services on the roads I feel moved to make a plea to get out of their way. I guess this isn’t going to touch the people it needs to. But if it reminds one of use to move over or out of the way for EMS/FIRE/POLICE so someone else might be helped or saved it’s worth the space it takes up here.
Yes, they can catch you by surprise but don’t delay, take action. It can be risky to move ahead at a stopped light but it’s your job to do it as fast and safe as possible. Make a path.
I see the winter predictions are already starting to get posted. I don’t pay much attention to them. I consider it lucky when the forecast is accurate for the next day. Think about how often the 7-day forecast is for crap.
I’ll take it like this guy, flying in the face of adversity and power through whatever comes. Which means I should test fire that generator and get some extra gas. I want to be ready for power outages.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I do hope the forecast for the next few days is accurate because they say it’s going to be nice. That means I should get out and about.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
Dogs have eyes that look deep into you.
You can run into a chill in the air regardless of the season.
I didn’t have that sense of accomplishment yesterday. Guess we will double up today.
The case for better education in this country is that 30+% still believe in Trump.
People who take too much rope have to look for taller trees.
There wasn’t a hint of sunshine yesterday. Clouds and near constant rainfall. I missed that orange object in the sky. And then I came across this image when looking for something else from this shoot in Annapolis and was pleased again. It feels like late November instead of late September here in the Mid-Atlantic.
A day without sunshine leaves me feeling incomplete. And tired also. As my better half reminded me, this is prime sleeping weather. Hopefully a hint of sunshine on Tuesday to revive me and others.
Random Thoughts of the Day
A good day to fill out my voting form and submit that.
Played with my grandchildren this morning. Nice start to the day.
The neighborhood is under construction. They are trying to rehab a home that should be torn down. Even the guy who bought it said it would have to be demolished and a new one built. I wonder what changed his mind.
My doctor believes in vaccines and therefore I got mine this morning for Covid and flu. It puzzles me how people start thinking they are smarter than doctors.
If you could start a new business right now, what would it be? – Asks the daily prompt.
Before I retired, I thought I would start a small business based around my hobbies. I quickly realized that is not what I wanted to do. I enjoy doing my creative arts for myself and sharing them with others.
There are a lot of things in running a business that people have no concept of. I did it once before with two partners and you wouldn’t believe the effort it takes and the time and energy you must put into it for it to have a chance to be successful.
My time now is split between my children and grandchildren, my better half, my friends and the many hobbies I enjoy.
There is one thing that I think about doing and that is if I were to be offered money for my work, I’d have them send it to one of the charities I like.
Families are doing their own portrait work now. Photo by Mike Hartley
Sometimes I allow my mind to go riding. Not random stuff, riding a motorcycle. Watching countryside pass by, the lines on the road twisting, feeling elevation changes, the wind and sound of the engine in tune with my wrist movements.
I’m glad I had that seat time. It’s comforting to know I scratched that itch. I would have regretted never riding. It’s given me good memories and smiles. I still come to attention hearing a V-Twin roar by. I still pause when I see a bike I like and wish I had some seat time on like this one below.
Will there be enough riders in the future to keep HD alive? Photo by Mike Hartley
I always road with a helmet but when I’m mind riding, I don’t notice one. I feel my arms extended forward and up. I feel the pressure of the wind on my chest.
I hear the wind change speed as I change speed. It’s always a smooth ride with nobody near my rear fender or merging into my lane with me still in it. Nobody pulling out in front of me or flicking a cigarette or drink out the window.
Just that nice upright ride of a cruiser, navigating good roads at leisurely speeds are my minds view now. Sometimes it will wander when I see a picture like this one. Other times it’s the sound of Harley’s coming and going from the Woodstock Inn down a mile down the road. Or a neighbor that has the same model I had and that sound of those pipes when he comes back from a ride.
I don’t miss it as badly as I used to. It’s more of a great experience that I can recall and hopefully will remember forever.
There must have been a lot of good rides vs bad ones because the memories are nice.
I haven’t taken any new photos this morning yet. I have yesterday’s shooting to download yet. But I’ve been editing away, purging some old things that should have been deleted a while ago but I’m a pack rat. Sometimes that works well for historical sake. Like this shot from 16 years ago at the Baltimore Harbor.
The Domino Sugar sign was updated in 2021. This year marked the 75th anniversary of the sign lighting the harbor. I should get down and shoot the new one.
The sun reflecting off the windows of the plant. Photo by Mike Hartley
With the rain the next day or two I’ll be editing away and maybe sneak out for some foul weather shooting. Just started the printer up to continue working on a textures and patterns project.
The tripod is already up in the other room and work on some close-up shots will happen today.
Bonus – I found a pack 50 sheet pack of 8 1/2 x 11 photo paper, so I’ll get to work on my next project with cars.
I also have to learn the new Zenfolio website tools because it’s moving to Next Zen. Just finished migrating things over from the Classic version.
Well, lots of things to do already and I do have a few chores and errands to run so let me get going.
What are some life hacks that you practice? – Asks the daily prompt. For some reason I feel like I’ve answered this one before so I’m sorry if I repeat anything from a previous post.
Be consistent and persistent if you want to get good at anything.
Take care of family.
Check in on caregivers, it’s a difficult role.
Give your loyalty to companies wisely. Many don’t deserve it. If you’re not appreciated, move on.
I like to make eye contact with people and smile.
Love animals, don’t be cruel.
Be courteous.
Be active. The more you do the better you feel.
Getting up early has always worked for me.
Knowledge is power.
The more appreciative of the small things in life, the happier you are.
This seemed like a good shot to start off a Friday with. Coming to shore to re-supply for the weekend voyage.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I hope to cruise myself for an hour or two between today and tomorrow. I won’t be on the water though. Just in the 2-seater on some back roads taking my time.
That is something that tears at me every day. Do I put the peddle to the metal or do I cruise and relax and enjoy not working as hard. Regarding my hobbies and creating things, I’m driven each day to do more, and I’m frustrated when I don’t accomplish more.
Then there is the schedule being so tight even in retirement that I just want free days to relax or read or sleep. There are far fewer of those than I thought there would be.
That’s life, finding that balance and being flexible along the way because nothing is 50/50 all the time.
You bet I do. Through the years I’ve seen it with my own eyes. It gives me hope and peace in life. Because there are a lot of bad people out there doing a lot of bad things.
But this Friday is going to be a good day, so I’ll look forward to good things happening. When in some ways might be karma for others.
Like waves, Karma keeps coming. Photo by Mike Hartley
My summer wheels are still turning. I’m going to be out and about till it gets too cold to be. Regardless of the calendar telling me that summer ends today. I’ll look forward to that Indian summer that always comes to this region in late September and early October.
Yes, we are in the middle of a couple cool rainy days, an early nor-easter is coming along the coast, but the warmth will return. It always does and I love it. It’s my final gasp and grabbing some sun and sand. The last chance to tuck some warm memories deep into the mind to pull out while shoveling snow this winter.
Summer is my favorite season and always has been and now another is ending. I’m holding out hope for the next one that I can make more memories with.
In some ways this was a great summer. Time with family, trips or lazy days at home with my better half. I won the battle with Mother Nature and the yard this year. I thought it had won when my almost 3 decades old mower was showing its age, so I opened the wallet and got a new one while I rebuild this one for my son.
The time with my children and grandchildren the past 3 months was very special. It’s that relaxed time of year for them. Where visits can be longer and sometime for a day or two and usually 1 week at the beach.
Heat does get to me more than it used to, which was not at all. So, I do take breaks now when I’m out and about working or having fun. And I get out earlier and later in the day.
Fall and certainly winter bring depression for me. I hate the cold and snow. The increased darkness gets me in a funk. Wearing anything more than shorts and a tee shirt is uncomfortable to me. My natural instinct is to hibernate. But life forces me outside in that mess.
So, I must steel myself in mindset and cloths to do battle with the elements.
How do you make time for self-care? – Not a bad question for this Tuesday morning.
It wasn’t the priority it should have been. To be honest, some of my life I’ve been poor at it. I made stupid choices like smoking for a few years. Early in life I pounded alcohol like there was no tomorrow. I got a grip on that in my mid 20s thanks to my better half. And being a child of the 60s and 70s there were probably a few substances ingested.
I’ve been overstressed most of my life. Not enough me-time before I retired. Spent far too many decades overworking. Sleep has been an issue, the lack of it being the problem which has plagued me all my life. Being active and having healthy relationships I’m much better at.
So here is what I make time for now:
I weigh myself every day. It keeps me from getting too out of control. I try to stay at a target weight but allow myself a few pounds but never more than 5. I know people say don’t weigh yourself so often but that is the only way I have found to stay at a healthy weight.
Seeing a doctor often has been routine most of my life. It’s saved my life a few times already. Two nasty cancers were caught early enough and other things adjusted to healthy levels with meds.
I get vaccines and flu shots and whatever else my doctor recommends.
Staying challenged by working at my hobbies, which also provides satisfaction.
Mental health is still a challenge. Always has been. Should have sought some professional help throughout the years upon reflection.
I do like having time to myself early in the morning hours. Music, hobbies, relaxing, understanding thoughts and feelings. Sometimes great joy and other times deep sadness.
Oh yeah, one of my favorite self-care items. The top down, manual transmission, rear wheel drive and dry roads. Unfortunately, it’s raining so my therapy remains under cover.
I’m strutting tonight. I was fortunate enough to catch a nap this afternoon, so the batteries are recharged and fuel (dinner) was just had so I’ll be high stepping this evening.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Funny that a video of Angus Young of AC/DC duck walking just came on for added inspiration. I didn’t know where I was going when I started this post and found this picture of mine, I hadn’t used yet. It’s my signal to get to work tonight and make some progress.
The sense of urgency is upon me. Not sure where it’s coming from. Could just be the excitement of opportunity to create and share. Or it could be the volume of years already passed that provides motivation. Probably a mixture of both.
It could be the fact I did more shooting last week than I had done in previous weeks. And that felt great. Not that I got that many winners, I was just noticing more opportunities and thinking more. It’s feeling really natural to have that camera up to my eyes again.
Maybe it was the progress I made on my gallery of latest example of textures that I’ve been making 8×10 prints of and about to turn the corner on covering another wall.
Progress, it feels good. I was going to watch some Monday night football, but I think I’ll keep working. And if I do catch some of the game I’ll get on the treadmill and lift some light weights.
I used to dread Monday’s, now I find it to be one of the more productive days of the week. It would be a shame if all this good feeling was due to the haircut I got first thing in the morning.
Random Thoughts of the Evening
Gambling must be getting out of hand due to the number of commercials I see and hear for it. Someone is making bank and it’s not the people placing the bets, most of the time.
I like songs that teleport me to good times in the past. An old Led Zeppelin tune just started playing and off I went.
Growing up too fast as a kid is not a good start.
If the weight of the world is on your shoulders, sit it down and push it for a while.
Found a classic style on Main Street this past weekend. Won’t be many more weeks of riding weather. I have ridden all year round once in my life. And I’m glad that was only needed once in my life.
This is a beautiful Triumph Bonneville. I like how they maintained that older styling in their newer bikes.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I still miss riding somedays. Especially when I see a bike I like. Or hear a group of Harley’s rumbling through. Time is running out fast to scratch that itch again. But that is okay, I got some seat time in my past years.
Main Street EC. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Morning
I hope to get out and back before the rains this morning.
Taking control of my schedule feels good.
It’s a good day to listen to music for inspiration to paint.
Getting out and about is good if you pick the right spots.
The nice thing about the aftermath of a big event in a small town is that it returns to normal where everyone left, looks you in the eyes, smiles and says hello and good morning again.
We went to the Ellicott City Music Festival yesterday for a few hours early in the 8-hour event. The first 4 hours were great, but we aren’t spring chickens anymore and our legs were tired. Plus, I still had grass to cut at home before nightfall. The music was good and the crowds seemed pleased and enjoying themselves.
We had a great time and the crowds just kept growing from the time we got there at 12:15 till we left shortly after 4pm. It was nice to see such a mixture of ages present.
The weather was great while we were there. A slight breeze and sunny. The clouds did move in as we were leaving though but it stayed dry I believe.
It seemed to be a very successful event for the town from my perspective. I hope they don’t take a hiatus again.
Good day from the beautiful state of Maryland. Wishing everyone a great day ahead. My better half and I spent some time along the water in St Michaels Maryland on Wednesday this week. One of the best weather days we have had there. In the 70s with a breeze and sun.
Exit from Harbor Inn at St. Michaels MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Of course, the following day it returned to normal Maryland weather this time of year which was humid as hell and hot. As we wandered around the town of Easton. Another great spot. I’ll do another post on the galleries we visited.
Time to get moving and up from this computer and enjoy another beautiful day outside before the forecasted 4 days of rain ahead. That will certainly give me the opportunity to get some foul weather shots.
Easton Maryland Visitor Center across the street. Photo by Mike Hartley
Time for the weekly Thursday Doors challenge with our host Dan Antion. For those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them this is the spot for you. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.
Getting in just under deadline again. Busy week. One marked by a good friend’s loss. I was also away mid-week, so time has been tight. I revisited a town I’ve shared before but there have been some updates and I got some new angle of past doors that I liked. I’ll probably share it over two weeks because I did shoot a bit.
The town is St. Michaels Maryland.
One of my favorite towns in the whole state. A waterfront town with beautiful old homes and shops.
One filled with bed and breakfast spots along with some great food and ice cream.
I love getting here and on a sunny day it makes for some good shots. Well, I hope they are good. I have more to share next week of the same spot.
In no particular direction this morning. I’ve slept in for a change. A few chores completed, and about to exercise a bit. My ever-present partner of pain is talking to my foot this morning. And I’m very thankful that it’s just that as I limp to the fridge for a drink.
I take great pride in being healthy enough to be upright and out and about. It’s nothing to be taken for granted. And yet we do. So many other pressures suck the joy out of life. They make us forget about the simple joys and things we should be thankful for.
On a ride last week, I passed a horse farm on the way home from the southern end of the county.
Connections to animals are a great thing. Photo by Mike Hartley
This one wandered down to see me and looked so deeply into my eyes and just kept this intense look. I said hello and its lips moved a bit.
That might be bigger than my home. Photo by Mike Hartley
I said nice house and I hoped you’re being treated well.
Along Hall Shop Road. Photo by Mike Hartley
I would have loved to get closer, but it’s marked private property and I respect that.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Fridays that look like rain all day are a pain in the butt.
Hard work is good for the body at any age. You just have to adjust the speed and duration as you age.
It makes me sad that a lot of people who resort to drugs for weight loss really don’t need to. I only say that because I was able to get control of it by changing my mindset. I still eat what I want. Just a lot less of it.
Life would be a lot more fun if we could work on the same schedule as Congress.
Every time I think I get a relatively open week, it fills up before my eyes in a blink of an eye.
Oh yeah, almost forgot to share my opinion that Trump is still a lying piece of crap and worthless human being.
Okay, another question from the daily prompt I have no interest in. – If you could pick any fictional animal to be your lifelong companion, what would it be? Nope, not even going to start thinking about it.
So, I’ll come up with something more suited for myself this morning. – A recent helicopter crash got me thinking. Wouldn’t it be a lot safer for everyone if the news stations want to cover accident scenes or fires or stationary events with drones instead of helicopters?
In the most recent incident 3 people died. The two in the helicopter and one on the ground.
Personally, I’m not thrilled when one is overhead of me. A drone isn’t going to make me comfortable either but if that falls out of the sky on my I’m likely to survive.
Seems like it would be a lot more cost effective also. Just a thought.
I’m fine with police using helicopters and I hear some are also using drones.
Baltimore Police chopper over Inner Harbor. Photo by Mike Hartley
The sand and the waves don’t change. But other things on the shore do. Here is a shot of two that are no more. One of my favorite pizza spots was Tony’s and the boardwalk Tram. Both are history.
Photo by Mike Hartley
So many changes in Ocean City each year catch my eye. Every inch of real estate seems to be developed. Restaurants come and go. I wonder how much business was lost due to the tram shutting down. Regardless, I still like going to this town.
Things didn’t seem as crowded the weeks we were there this year. I’m wondering if it was an off year. Given the cost increases of just getting there and the rates for stays here are high I wouldn’t be surprised if occupancy rates were down a bit.
The jellyfish invasion in August didn’t help. That is the most popular month and if you can’t get in the water, it’s not a destination for the family. I know my son went down again a few weeks after our family vacation in July, and they said they couldn’t even get in the water, they were so thick.
After all these years, traditions and favorite spots have changed. But we always still seem to have a great time there. Lots of people complain about it. There are spots and times and weekends to avoid. But there is something for everyone throughout the year.
It’s been some time in taking a bike ride up and down the boardwalk with my better half. I think I’ll have to put that on the list to complete before the end of the year.
I took a great ride late yesterday afternoon. The sun is setting earlier and it’s getting cooler. Of course, my ride has 4 wheels now but it’s open and I don’t need a helmet. I still get to shift gears and have music.
Driving some local backroads with some of my favorite tunes and beautiful weather. Everyone was also behaving themselves for the most part.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I do miss my seat on my old cruiser. I felt more visible on that than I do in my Miata now at times. And I’m about to change that aspect also because the biker philosophy of Loud Pipes Save Lives can also be true for a car.
More seat time was had today. I have to take advantage of the last few days of summer. It’s such a beautiful day outside in the 70s and sunny. I noticed the volume of traffic starting to grow so I headed home till that rush hour mess is behind me and maybe I’ll venture back out this evening.
Then again, it might just be relaxing to sit out by the firepit.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What to do with people who won’t help themselves.
Missing my grandchildren today.
I thank the Irish for their weekend demonstrations against Trump.
Went on a trip to central Pennsylvania yesterday for my better half’s aunt’s 90th birthday. She has a huge family of 6 of their own children and the number of grandchildren and now great grandchildren are staggering. It was just the adults today which was nice and special. Rarely do we get a chance to talk and laugh like we did today.
I did the driving up and back. We also stopped at a cemetery to pay our respects to a niece who passed from cancer way to early and an uncle in-law who was special to me because he was also a career newspaperman who worked his life at the Philadelphia Inquirer. We used to trade war stories and both of us had an endless supply and would laugh and share a time in history that was special.
Six hours on the road is enough for me. I’ve done more but at a younger age. I’m sure I could do more, but I’d have to take stretching breaks.
Lake Habeeb. Photo by Mike Hartley
Just a great and relaxed Sunday ahead. Some grilling, a quick ride later with the top down. Maybe some football and exercise.
Looking forward to a grand week ahead and many accomplishments and adventures. Paddling with the current would be nice.
Long before 9/11/2001 the date 9/11 was special to me because it was my mother’s birthday. I love her so and miss her badly. The only birthday of hers I missed was on 9/11/2001.
I was working at The Washington Post at the time, and it was nonstop news cycle for this tragic event. She understood me missing it but didn’t like me being downtown. I had planned to take off early that day and take her out, but life dictated otherwise.
So many people now don’t have any experience with that event. Probably the last time this country came together.
Anyway, I thought I had seen a lot that day and the following months. I worked in the media and saw photos and videos before they were even published and broadcast. And I believe some they chose not to run at all. I even saw a few things firsthand from the top of the Post building in DC I could see the smoke from the Pentagon crash site and of course the military on the corner of 15th and L street.
We visited the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in NYC earlier this year, and it was one of the most moving things I’ve experienced. So much more that I didn’t know and see. An incredible job of putting this together and so well done and respectful.
I’ve split up some images into vertical and horizontal galleries of inside and outside groups.
I walked in stunned silence and wonder.
It’s easy to get choked up going through this memorial.
So many others perished from working on this area and its aftermath.
Getting to the Flight 93 Memorial and the Pentagon one is on my bucket list also.
Who is your favorite cartoon character? – Asks the daily prompt.
Road Runner and Coyote / Bugs Bunny
I feel like I grew up in a great cartoon era. My favorites were The Bugs Bunny and Looney Tunes Shows. The Road Runner Show and Flintstones were also favorites.
When I was really young, I think I remember one called Top Cat.
Cartoons in my youthful times helped me to laugh. They were such a contrast to real life.
Oh yeah, all those dials on the tv below were real. You had to get up to change the channel and volume. Or adjust brightness and contrast but those two knobs were only on the newer sets.
I’m holding on tightly to the remaining days of summer. Yes, I see the leaves starting to fall. I feel those cooler night temps. And that sun is rising and setting earlier.
To survive I capture things throughout the summer. I take mental snapshots of events, time with family and friends, quiet rides with the top down on a back road alone, big cookouts, as well as all the photos I take throughout those months. And I spend the winter hoping for one more chance at summer again.
Good morning. An old shot from Virgina Beach. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ll return to the beach before the temp’s plummet again and get my feet in that warm sunbaked sand. Not sure if it’s going to be warm enough to swim though.
My mind and body get uncomfortable with the thought of winter. I hate losing my tan and time in the sun. The lack of daylight is depressing. The cold makes me ache. The desire to hibernate is strong but at the same time not desirable. I have to work hard not to get in a funk about the seasonal change into winter and its surrounding seasons.
Ah, there it is, the sun is peaking through the clouds more. I hope the weather forecaster was right that we would get some more sun this afternoon so let me get up and enjoy this beautiful day before the rain comes this evening.
How does your mindset affect your financial success? – Now there is a question that I haven’t thought of before from the daily prompt.
Your mindset affect success Big Time because it affects your decision-making process and that is very important in choosing the right job and when to make changes. Your job is your financial income in most cases. And a key to your financial success unless you’ve been left a gob of money which isn’t the case here or many others.
If you see yourself as limited or lacking confidence in your abilities, it’s going to be harder to keep moving up the ladder. If you are pessimistic that the system is rigged against you and you never invest, that can hurt.
If you don’t set some goals to improve it’s likely you will stay in the same spot now or slip back.
If your mindset says you’re responsible with carrying around money or credit cards, and you’re not, that mindset will land you in trouble.
If you have to have the latest and greatest of everything, that is going to be costly along the way and prevent you from saving most likely.
If you live a day-to-day mindset, without planning for the future, I’ve seen that leave people homeless and hungry.
Please don’t let money be your guiding light. Greed has become rampant. Do well for yourself and your family but help others along the way and we will all be better off.
Mid-point for the working man and woman and those who started school. Hump Day is still recognized here because my friends start to get excited. A lot of them are working still. My work week has no beginning or end. It’s just one ongoing lovefest.
I found work that wasn’t my first love but became good at it and learned to love. Now I’m doing what I want and loving it. In some respects, I don’t think I wanted to earn a living doing what I like best because that would have meant listening to and meeting others needs and not my own all the time.
Bay behind Ocean City. Photo by Mike Hartley
Some things have been blocking my motivation lately though. I’m slowly getting it back but it’s a struggle at times and it comes with setbacks. So, onto what I can accomplish today and tonight.
It’s going to be a hot one and I’m loving that forecast. Top down on the car, shorts and a tee shirt and smile ear to ear as I go through the gears to my photographic destination.
Random Thoughts of the Day
People will surprise the hell out of you. So don’t be surprised when they do it again to you a second time.
I didn’t care for the styling of the Ford Maverick car a long time ago and I don’t care for the styling of the Ford Maverick Truck now.
It’s not crazy to say the guy with the nuclear codes is not right in his mind and nobody is doing anything about it. What does that make us?
The last several days have been packed so tight that I’ve been slacking on my hobbies. Yes, I’ve been posting but it’s been rushed and some shots from the vault. Being so busy in retirement has been the thing that has surprised me the most. I shouldn’t be with children and grandchildren close by and our interest in seeing them.
I like finding random unique vehicles. Photo by Mike Hartley
The first day of pre-school for one of my grandchildren today. We went up and watched the baby while they took him and picked him up. What a joy to see. The excitement and anticipation he had was wonderful. They prepared him well. The parents did well also but I’m sure it was as emotional for them as it was for us.
Now I’m back in the saddle of the office chair. Kind of wishing I had this view below but maybe before the end of the year we will return to the beach.
Bethany Beach Delaware. Photo by Mike Hartley
If I had any brains, I’d hop in the car around 4am and catch sunrise on the beach tomorrow morning. I wish I had the energy to listen to that 18-year-old voice in my head that gives me great ideas.
But this body and mind are very short on rest. The trouble with that is when it gets that way it has trouble resting. That long stretch of overnight shift has taken its toll. I remember being so tired some nights that I think I tricked my brain so many times into staying awake when I start to get tired now I can’t.
There were times when I’d get home after a 12-hour shift and a 3 hour round trip drive and I’d be too wired to go to sleep immediately. I’d have to get to the point of exhaustion to pass out. There are many times now that I’ll be in a pretty good sleep and snap awake.
That is why I get up a lot now after a few hours of sleep. Because when I wake up its awake immediately. And I know the chances are almost 100% I’ll stare at the ceiling for a few hours till I drift off again. So, I get up and work for a few hours and then try again.
Such is life. As some would say, mistakes were made. Would I do it again. Probably not and that is a warning to some of you doing that now. It was much easier as a young man to pull that off but doing that when you’re beyond 50, I wouldn’t recommend it for any substantial length of time.
Well, it’s time to move on to the next task which is the treadmill. Have a good evening, all.
Random Thoughts of The Day
Losing senses is a very difficult thing. I remember my mother losing her sense of taste after a stroke. Two people close to me struggle with hearing issues. I can see what a toll that takes.
There are no replacing smiles from children because you know they are genuine.
Rules to live by are good to have.
We have gone from a president in 1973 who says, “I am not a crook” and not believing him to one in 2026 who revels in being a crook right in front of our eyes and gloats in it that we do nothing. That is how stupid we have become.
I’m guessing a lot of people feel there are lots of things missing from their lives. I’m not thinking of the material things. They don’t bring happiness anyway. Well, I could be wrong, some people are entirely materialistic and, on the outside, seem happy.
I’m thinking about love, friendships, relationships, a shared interest, an ear to listen to troubles or one that gives sage advice in tough times. Someone to give you a hug. Someone to laugh with or tell you things will be okay. Someone interested in your life. Those kinds of missing things.
Isn’t it funny how missing pieces of life can just overwhelm the rest of it. Many go huge portions, or all their lives with significant parts missing from what others take for granted.
I see something missing in almost everyone I know. Some are easy to spot. Some hide it well. Life is perfect for such a very small percentage of people that you could be right about something important missing in just about every person’s life.
How do we deal with those missing parts? Do we find ways to substitute missing pieces? Do you ignore it? Turn to destructive behaviors? Find other avenues for happiness. Find ways to adapt to what isn’t there for you.
Like the last few years of my career, I wasn’t all that happy and started to concentrate on my hobbies for joy and fulfillment.
I’m still missing things in life so I’ve got work to do. As I guess we all do.
I hope you find something that is missing in your life.
I’m posting instead of creating drafts. I’m throwing it at the wall and seeing what sticks. In the end there is what you create. And either I’m going to contribute greatly to the infinite pile of crap that already exists or maybe raise the bar slightly. Maybe a little of both, but I’ll leave that to others to sort out.
I’ve been letting too many other things come between what I’d like to be doing and what I’m actually doing. Summer has gotten away from me. I’m feeling good about some work I’ve done but far from satisfied with the total results and effort.
Finding and making the time to do the work of several people is difficult at best, even in retirement. I have grand plans but not the one to execute it all. So, more planning and adjustments are needed.
I’m taking a tip from a recent read; I’m making time to touch each of my interests every day. I have spent time being blocked instead of moving onto something different. Sometimes I’ll get stuck while writing and I should get up and walk in the workroom and pick up the Dremel tool and start working with some wood.
When I’m carving, I’m always moving the object and looking at it from different angles. Unlike my shooting (photography) where I’m the one doing 360s and looking up and down for angles, light, objects, people, nature. Versus my editing and printing my photography, painting and drawing which is 2 dimensional.
Then there is the painting which I usually start with a piece of reality and then interpret it and create.
So off I go to put in some work today. Yep, it’s Labor Day but the work I do is a labor of love.
Northside Park in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
I turned on the outside lights this morning because I wanted to get an early start. Many chores await my attention today. Luckily, I got a great start yesterday.
Picked the shot below because it reflects the morning I’m hoping for. Bright and ready to cruise through it.
My anticipation for the day doesn’t match any big plans but I’m still excited about it. I should charge the camera batteries to be ready if I get some time free and opportunity arises.
The stretch of coming weather has me smiling from ear to ear. The only pain will be when I see the cost of 93 octane at the pump this morning. But I’ll enjoy burning every drop of it because that’s how I roll. Speaking of rolling, it’s Columbia Cruise night and I think I’ll motor up there this evening.
Car culture is back and I’m glad to see it strong again. Organized events are popping up all over the place. It will transition in the next decade because a lot are my age and older and that means our years behind the wheel are numbered.
Well, enough dreaming of time going through the gears later. Off to chores I go.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I sense a mid-day nap in the hammock.
Another great meal at Oscars in Woodstock last night.
I’m sorry but I still love the daily Far Side calendars.
A longtime neighborhood resident is departing soon.
The daily prompt asks – If you could relive one year of your life, which one would it be?
Sitting here, I was surprised that a year or two or more didn’t immediately pop to mind. I started recounting years and years which was leading to some frustration. Not because I didn’t recount good times but because they also came with some difficult ones as well.
Guessing there is no perfect year. So let me refine my search.
I guess it would be my 12th-13th year of life. Things were still in turmoil, my father had passed just a few years earlier, family finances were at rock bottom, I was already working part-time gigs.
Man was landing on the moon and an influential music festival – Woodstock – caught my attention. The world seemed in turmoil with Vietnam raging and civil rights fights taking place with massive political unrest and kids getting shot on campus not by some nut but our government.
I remember finding peace and solace in music and sports. And I immersed myself in those when I wasn’t in school or working. If I wasn’t on the basketball court or baseball field, I would in my room with the headphones on. It was an awakening year in many ways.
While there was chaos all around, I was at peace humming tunes from the Beatles or CSN back and forth to the courts or fields. Or in my room swinging a bat with The Who Live at Leeds on the headphones.
It’s the first year after my dad passed that I remember my mom thinking we were going to be okay. I could see it because if my memory is right that is the year she changed jobs from a bad one to a good one.
Picking up my dad’s old camera and taking some pictures became an interest that year.
A year without professional career responsibilities. A year without loves heartaches or raising a family pressure. A year with great health and abilities. A time when learning came easily.
I was editing a batch of photos and this one popped up as the song Home Sweet Home by Motley Crue came on but it was the one that featured Dolly Parton. I like that version.
Figured that was too much of a coincidence not to post the photos before I head back outside to finish cutting the second half of the yard.
Photo by Mike Hartley
You know what is sweet, being given the time and opportunity to create and share. I’ll leave the challenge of eating these candied apples with various coatings to those with younger teeth.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Just had a panic flashback. Saw a headline about the holiday weekend and remembered working so many of them and then came to my senses that I’m retired.
Testing my stamina today.
Don’t forget to laugh. It’s the baston of sanity.
Turning things around isn’t easy. So, keep your steering lubricated.
My first task this morning is to go out and finish cleaning the grill grate for this weekend’s feast. So, I stepped outside and it’s already steaming from last night’s rains. Occasionally Maryland feels like Florida with the humidity.
Grill by Chevy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Hopefully some sunshine this afternoon to put some pep back in my step. Well maybe some time in the tractor seat cutting the yard and behind the push mower cutting the back mountain. And while that doesn’t sound like the best option for a sunny day it beats this office seat I had years ago.
The far seat by the red/white cooler was mine for the last decade of my career. Like working in a fishbowl.Photo by Mike Hartley
Cleaning that grill grate actually isn’t my first chore. I’ve been picking up from the storm damage and got the leaf blower out and cleaned the decks and stick are picked up so I can mow without dulling blades.
The older I get the larger this yard seems. Back outside I go. Just wanted to say hello and share a few photos.
A good day so far except for listening to some news and reviews. Still a lot to do to prepare for company this weekend. The only traveling I’ll be doing is taking a pleasure ride tomorrow and maybe stopping at the Snowball Stand or Bruster’s for an ice cream.
A shot of the sun burning through the fog at my friend’s backyard. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m going to miss this view, and others from one of my best friend’s homes. They are relocating next year, and their home of 40 years will be no longer. It’s also the neighborhood I grew up in so the cruises by some old streets on the way to his house won’t be as common.
Another few links to my past changing again. Like they say, the only constant in life is change.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I find myself withdrawing inward more.
I love watching sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean even if it’s on a webcam.
Time to change the look of my office.
Some mornings you find yourself a little more thankful than usual. Maybe tomorrow will be one of them.
I just noticed a number that made me smile. No, it wasn’t comments or likes or views or visitors.
The number that caught my eye was 5,000 posts published. In 12 years of blogging here at WordPress I’m happier than ever. Most of that 5K came in the last few years. In a lot of ways, I feel that was just the beginning. I’m getting more involved in the community and sharing more myself.
I have no perspective on where that number falls in the blogging perspective. I’m trying to keep my original goal of posting each day. And unless we have a prolonged power outage, I’m here every day.
Just the start of my little self-publishing empire. Who knows, maybe I’ll pick a more progressive theme and get this site organized. Picking up the quality of the content has always been a goal so maybe we can focus on that also.
I blog because I like it. It keeps me busy and active each day. It helps me get out and capture images to share. At one time I thought it would help my writing but that is going slowly.
Having the opportunity to create and share some thoughts and ideas is sweet. Leaving something for my kids and grandkids to know me better is also a nice thought.
Jellies. Photo by Mike Hartley
Toiling away in relative obscurity is fine with me. Though I’m sure big brother is at least watching with some of the negativity I’ve shared about the current administration.
I can’t get enough time to do all the things I want to do today and, in the future, so I don’t do recaps. I’m sure there are a ton of klunkers in that 5K. There might be some pearls of wisdom buried in too many words. There might be a contest winning photo.
I’m focused on what I can get done tonight and what fresh shooting I’ll have for Thursday. So, onto the next 5K posts.
I’ve worked hard this week. But not on my hobbies much. I also need to put some time behind the wheel today and tonight. Not this beauty but my go-cart. It’s one of those warm summer days and nights that I can put the top down and be very comfortable.
Nice grill. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve got a smile again on my face after listening to some music. Specifically, the song A Touch of Grey by the Grateful Dead. As they say, “We Will Get By, We Will Survive.”
And as soon as I type that the severe thunderstorm warning is beeping. So back outside to double check I’ve got everything secured. Have a good afternoon.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I believe the leaves start falling at the same time each year. But I also think that getting older makes you think it’s earlier.
Remember the days when you could adjust your lighter to Flame Thrower level at concerts.
Simple meals are sometimes the best. For example: burgers and dogs. Charcoal at the ready. FIRE.
My office chair is shot, as it slowly lowers me as I type.
Such a simple greeting, good morning. I miss saying that to more people each morning not having the job to go into and interact with others.
I like this spot in Ocean City. Photo by Mike Hartley
Of course, I say it to my better half each morning but most days that is it. I do go out some mornings taking pictures and that is always nice because it’s early and most people out at that hour are friendly.
I’ll say good morning to the deer or birds sometimes standing out back in the mornings.
I liked surprising strangers with a “good morning” when I worked downtown DC.
And this post reminds me that I should send my kids an email saying good morning and have a great day.
Full sun finally broke through today. Took its time doing it.
So, I’m taking a break from chores. This image is where I’m going to live the rest of the day, at least in my mind. Instead of sweating in the yard.
The Isle of Wight Bay, Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
I love water views. I think I’ll start to document some of our local ponds, rivers and lakes.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I guess if lies keep being repeated some people believe them regardless.
My brother’s in-law made a lot of good points about eating better, cutting out sugars, exercises and other healthy thoughts. And then I quickly came to my senses and had another brownie.
Come on Google Maps. Lake of America. Shame on you.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever found randomly on the street? – Asks the daily prompt.
My first thought was cars. I love the beauty and styles of cars. But I know I share too many pictures of cars as it is. And then the true answer came to me.
A Photograph.
Barry the Bubbleman. Photo by Mike Hartley
One of his many fashion statements.
Annapolis MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
I didn’t realize I was taking so many street shots over the years. But it’s a great place for catching great moments.
An afternoon stroll with the baby. Photo by Mike Hartley
I see sunshine and warmth in the forecast for today and given my schedule isn’t packed with work, I plan on being outside and absorbing a lot of it.
Here we are on the last day in August, the feeling of another summer slipping by and it pains me. Maybe I can rescue myself and see if I can make it to the sands and sounds of waves on the shore again before the seasons change on me.
Sun worshiping. Photo by Mike Hartley
I might get my share of water today if I get the power washer out. Then again, I might not want to press things, I’m just starting to feel human.
Sitting here thinking about my teacher children and grandchildren going back to school today. What a responsibility we put on these people. The value of a committed teacher is a special thing. The true value is in seeing young minds develop well. Many lessons teachers impart aren’t in the books. Because some aren’t taught at home.
So, a salute to another school year, all those who get your kids safely back and forth each day. To the administration and teachers interacting with your children. To the janitorial and cafeteria workers who clean up and feed your children.
Let me go open the shed and get started. I’ll be back to join you again later.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
Listening to some old favorites this morning like CSNY Almost Cut My Hair. The live version of it at Farm Aid was great.
I was reminded that the first one out the door in the morning is the one who cuts through the spiderwebs of life.
Steve Winwood – Back in The High Life Again is a nice tune for the morning.
The more I thought about the things needing attention, the more I realized I have a lot to do before Saturday.
What’s the kindest thing someone has ever done for you? – Asks the daily prompt.
This is a tough one to answer because I don’t want to leave the special things anyone has done for me and I know I will.
When my mom stepped up and raised my sister and I alone at a young age was pretty special. Or when she helped with the down payment on our first home.
My better half taking care of me when recovering from surgeries is very special. And every time I’m sick is the kindest thing.
Maybe our children throwing us a surprise anniversary party a while back.
My best friend helping me move in one day, with just the two of us was extremely kind.
When my 1- & 1/2-year-old granddaughter runs at me going Papa-Papa with a huge smile. When my 4-year-old grandson grabs my hand and runs us towards the shed to get the tractor out. And anytime my 7-year-old granddaughter reaches for my hand gives it the same squeeze my daughter does.
Pools are still open. The water rides at the parks are still going. I even had the sprinklers set up for the grandkids this week. I know my brothers-in-law are getting together for a swim tomorrow.
Personally, I won’t be getting wet except for sweating while working outside a bit this weekend. But maybe a small splash with my hobbies. I’m always hoping to create something each day.
Fountain at Turf Valley. Photo by Mike Hartley
Over the last two hours I’ve created some back pain from doing some landscaping work. Time to power through that and get back outside for there is much on the agenda today. Yes, we will squeeze in some fun.
I think we will treat us to a meal out today.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
Keeping motivated can lead to happiness.
I’ve got to work on my Labor Day menu with my better half. Lots of grilling and people.
Sometimes when you change, you can find yourself alone.
Breaking bad habits like bad posture is hard. But I’m working on it.
We had stopped by the local produce market on the way home from Ocean City a few weeks ago and I heard the sound of a nice motorcycle slowly cruising up the side road to the light. As I walked to my car the light turned and he slowly rolled through the intersection to turn east on Route 50 towards the ocean with nothing but open road in front of him.
And then he TWISTED IT and holy crap. My body tingled as he roared through the first 3 gears in quick succession. He was a small dot in the distance as he hit 5th. I think my smile was pretty wide by the time I opened the door. It brough back a few memories of my 2 wheel days and trips to the ocean.
I didn’t do any extreme high-speed runs like that, I rode a cruiser instead of a sport bike. There were stretches of nice roads to enjoy though.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve gone for more comfort in my senior years. A 2-seat roadster convertible that still gives me the view and feel of the road. And yes, truth be told, it doesn’t offer much more protection than the above image. The funny thing is after having ridden for a few decades is that the Miata almost gets more people tailgating it than the motorcycle.
And tailgating bothers me so much more than any other infraction on the road. Maybe I should put a bumper sticker on the back. Former Biker, Still Dangerous.
I was driving home last night through that monsoon that passed by and there was a ton of water on the roads. It reminded me of phrase “Don’t Drown, Go Around” and the videos of people stuck in floodwaters.
Just because you have an SUV doesn’t mean it’s a boat also. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Morning
Last day with our granddaughter this week. It’s going to be quiet around here. And that always seems strange and kind of lonely the first day after she is back to school.
Value is not found in things.
Kids love to build forts. Which reminds me of the ones we used to build in the woods when I was a youngin.
Pick your friends wisely. And if you can’t find the right ones go it alone till you do because picking the wrong ones isn’t good for you.
Weddings remind me of starts. I don’t attend many anymore. Unfortunately, we’re going to more ends than beginnings. The good old cycle of life. But back to STARTS. One of the mistakes Ive made is letting past starts or days affect the current day. Each one is a fresh opportunity to start over.
I’m starting to focus my starts in real time. Ignoring past failed attempts or building on what was a good start. Not spending time or energy thinking about what the next photo shoot might be or what to start painting or carving but to just focus on what I’m doing at that moment.
Be it finding a photo to start a new post like I did for this one. Instead of wondering where to start I just picked something I liked and sharing it and some thoughts were under way.
Photo by Mike Hartley
So, I hope you all are starting off this fine Thursday with the energy and direction you have for something you love and live for. If not, get busy finding it and enjoy it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I will not be deterred by the weather forecast. I may have to cover the car today, but I see a nice stretch of sunshine for the top-down rides.
Feeling the rhythm of the music this morning. The whole body is moving. It’s getting the mind right.
Don’t be busy with the wrong things.
Count on yourself. It’s a winning bet. If you give it your best effort, your hand will be strong.
This coming weekend is Ocean City Jeep Week 2026. It will be held from Thursday, August 27, through Sunday, August 30, 2026. The Facebook page says it was founded in 2010. It’s something I’ve thought about attending because it brings huge throngs of people and their jeeps to the beach. That is a rolling parade on the sands that is cool to watch.
Memories of an old trip in a CJ4 with a neighborhood friend to Ocean City in my youth came back as I was getting a photo for this post. Jeff’s Jeep was a fine piece of work. He had dropped a V8 in it and it was loud. We rode down with it completely open. Unfortunately, Jeff was rather fair skinned, and he got a terrible sunburn that first day. Jeff was a good man and a good friend who passed too young.
A row of Jeeps from the Turf Valley car show. Photo by Mike Hartley
I see nothing but sun in the forecast so get out and have some fun and take those tops and doors off.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
I bet a lot of young people can’t relate to the death of Dolly Parton as something that is a significant loss. And I’m not a country music fan. I am a fan of good songwriting, of people who are giving of themselves, who better the world and those around them.
Sometimes the best times are the simplest.
Keeping your weight in a healthy range takes work. At least it does for me.
My granddaughter wants pancakes again for breakfast so let me get to that job.
Kids like Chocolate Chip pancakes. I like Chocolate Chip pancakes. At least it put a smile on me, and my granddaughters face this morning.
Found what I think is a Painted Lady butterfly.
Not seeing as many butterflies this season. Photo by Mike Hartley
Our son texted us this morning and asked us to watch the baby while he and his better half take their son to the first day of preschool. They get to stay the first hour. We had maybe 2-3 minutes before we were supposed to leave them when I dropped him off that first day.
He’s already felt several first with his son. This will be another one and it’s painful and proud at the same time. More painful those first few times. But then you see them enjoying learning, making new friends and excited to tell you everything they did and made you and it’s wonderful.
It seems so long ago, I go by that school almost every day and I still see myself walking him in holding hands and leaving him for the first time with a teacher. Gut wrenching to let them go but you have to.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The number of food recalls is going to prompt this country to go on a diet. I wonder if it’s because they fired all the inspectors.
I love the excitement the kids get when I hand them prints of pictures of themselves.
When I see leaves falling in August, I yell NO – Get back on that tree.
I read about two dead in PA due to measles. First in 35 years. Thank you, very little, government vaccine sceptics. May Karma visit you several fold.
Saw these two gentlemen sitting behind their old Camaro’s and it reminded me of an old term I hadn’t heard in a while. A couple of old souls in both chairs and with their hoods up.
Car shows are great. Lots of nice people having a good time. This was from a recent one at Turf Valley MD.
I believe both are 68s. Photo by Mike Hartley
And I can see they have a sense of humor with those years.
In an hour I’ll be entertaining my 7-year-old granddaughter for a good portion of the day. I wish she could transfer some of that endless energy she has to her grandparents. Because I’m tired before starting this day. Couldn’t sleep last night more than a few hours.
It’s going to be a nice day outside so we will probably be out and about a bit. I know she mentioned setting up the splashpad and sprinkler. We went to her neighborhood pool yesterday and she loves the water.
Right now, I have to get the printer hooked up to the other computer so she can select photos from the beach that she wants for her room. Oh crap, I forgot she wanted pancakes for breakfast. I better go and make sure we have the ingredients for them. I know we have the chocolate chips she likes in them.
So let me get up and get ready for the whirlwind to hit the house.
Food Review
We were lucky enough to stop by the Cockeysville location of the Pappas Restaurant this past weekend. I’d been to the Parkville location before and I loved their crabcakes, so I had them again. This is becoming one of my favorite places for crabcakes. Service was great and the stuffed mushrooms were the best I’ve had.
A giant metal sculpture of a blue crab at a vacation home we shared with a friend. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Ignoring reality is dangerous.
Note to Canada. We think Trump is an idiot and bad for our relationship.
I’m holding on tight to the last few days of August.
It’s cool enough at night now to fire up the firepit.
