Holding on by a thread, or nail? Are things slipping between the cracks? Are boundaries failing? Welcome to life. I feel like that wall from time to time. I’ve been standing for a long time. I’m weathered and beaten. But I’m still here. And so are you.
So, continue to hold on, repair, rebuild and be revived.
After a morning of yard work and cleaning outdoor furniture it’s time for a shower. Then a quick ride before the rain comes.
A lot of us have been waiting for spring. It’s been a fight but were ready to break out and enjoy this 82-degree last day of March. So be gone winter and cold temps and salt on the roads. I hope to spend the day outside enjoying it.
Good luck climbing over this gate. Maybe you can float over it when the water starts to rise. Or guess the combination.
When I retired, Mondays stopped being an issue. I hope that continues to be the case. It’s no different than any other day of the week. No dread of the beginning of another workweek. No morning commute. No stress of a boss and his follies. Well, it wasn’t my bosses. It was usually the people over them that were the issue.
Sorry I digressed. We are past that trauma. So, onto appreciating another fine start to the day. Something that I always didn’t consider when stressed or concentrating on other priorities of the day. Now I’m more relaxed and thankful that I have another day where I set the priorities.
And the priorities today are keeping a smile on my face and finishing a few art projects. I don’t know why but I feel different this day. Like I might be regaining some sense of control again. Been lacking a little energy lately but I feel it returning. Maybe putting the headphones on and getting into some positive thoughts have me buzzing.
I took advantage of the power and did some weightlifting this morning. I’ve been reading where that is more important in your senior years to keep that muscle strength and tone. Nothing serious just some dumbbells and bands.
I’ve got to download some bird shooting I did yesterday. Sent my kids the morning greetings and wish them a good week.
My better half did a good job cleaning up some of the basement and I have to follow suit and pick up my area. We have company coming this weekend, so I have to pretend I’m not sloppy.
But the main objective today is to detail the go-cart. I’m going to celebrate it’ 10th year anniversary a day early tomorrow being it’s going to be sunny and 80 degrees. That is a top-down cruising day if I’ve ever seen one on the horizon. I’m going out to burn some $5 a gallon fossil fuel and have a great time on some back roads and cruising towns.
And I can’t have a dirty car for the club meeting a week from today.
But first a trip to the hardware store.
Wildlife is always visiting my home. From deer to woodchucks and hawks and squirrels and rabbits. I guess just about anything outside in this region is sometime passing through, hunting or living in my yard. I like seeing them all. A pair of foxes were chasing each other and screaming and occasionally catching and playing with each other.
Last evening I had 10 deer in my backyard.
Living in harmony with our natural habitat is important to all of us. I guess I could be asking a bit much. We are having trouble living in harmony with each other.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Another early but slow start to the day. There was one victory though. The John Deere tractor started up for what I think is either the 27th or 28th year of service. I was smart and took the battery out for the winter and had charged it indoors. I sent a video of it cranking up for my grandson who loves to ride it and has asked all winter long if he could get on it.
It has been a productive afternoon. Making some progress on chores and my hobbies. Started sanding a wooden heart earlier. Also moving some images to the photo site and this evening I hope to crank up the printer and cover a few empty spots on my office walls.
My back is starting to talk to me so I’m going to put in another hour or two and call it a day on the heavy stuff.
I saw a note in another post about it being Kidney Cancer Awareness Month. I’m aware of it because I had it. Well, it had part of me to be correct. A good reminder for myself to make a few donations to my favorite cancer organizations.
The daily prompt asks – What Makes you Laugh?
Wow, lots of things thankfully.
I’ll start with life in general. Hundreds of things make me laugh each day. Even when I’m sad, I sometimes shake my head and laugh.
My family, especially my children and grandchildren, make me laugh. My friends certainly make me laugh.
Comedians make me laugh. Cartoons make me laugh, comics make me laugh and stupid things make me laugh. Nature sometimes makes me laugh. Politicians make me laugh.
The actual what is even more of a list that is too big for one post. I guess the power to see humor and sometimes share in making others laugh is a nice trait to have.
I do know I’m thankful laughter has been such a big part of my life. It’s saved me several times from traumatic events and troubled times. Laughter is a survival skill at times in life.
Is the orange one flaming out? Could be, it looks like the ship is taking on water and listing badly. I salute those showing up today at the No Kings Rally.
I was going to go to the local one here, but my body is not cooperating. Cold weather and wind are not a combo that is going to untwist my body. My daughter is representing in DC today. I may change my mind. I’m hitting the shower now. The local one starts at 1pm.
Don’t worry, I’ll be very involved in change this year. Including my vote and support for anything that is opposed to the current cult and moving the country forward instead of backwards.
Gooood morninggggggg Vietnam. I just love that line from Robin Williams in the movie by the same name. No, I don’t like war and I don’t find myself happy in the one were in now. But onward to making it a good day.
It’s early morning and I’ve got to find a bright spot like a sunrise I captured years ago that I’ll use for inspiration because there won’t be one visible this morning in central Maryland.
I see a lot of opportunities for growth today. Then again, I’m having trouble seeing because the lighting SUCKS in parts of this house. The fixture in my workroom just went out and I was hoping to do some carving today because my better half just gave me some blocks that will be nice to experiment with. Maybe outside if the rain stops.
Well, back to the opportunities.
It’s exciting putting the deck and patio chairs out again. Watching my neighbors working in their garden, looking at the fully charged mower battery I need to reinstall. All brings a smile to my face.
I love having some property but it’s a good bit of work. Which reminds me I should stop at the local hardware and get some more crabgrass killer. The never-ending battle with mother nature. Most of our neighbors have yard and landscape services. Notice to crooks, you should be able to tell the difference, those are the homes with money.
The thought of a smaller yard is nice, but I like my space. This little garden above is found along Church Road in Ellicott City. My back aches a bit from trimming trees and the last hour of picking up branches and sticks that have fallen without my assistance.
It’s so nice to see people outside again. Talking for periods of time instead of the quick helloes between shivering from the car to the front door.
Almost time to kick back and watch the beginning of the second round of March Madness and plug in the heating pad.
I’m always looking for a unique or special angle that highlights the wonderful design of automotive or motorcycling styling. It’s a quest I’m going to get better at, this year. I just hope people are out and about with their rides.
In another hour or two the temps here will pass 70 degrees and then I’ll be looking for my keys. I’m going out now to take the cover off my go-cart.
I look at the style of today’s cars, and it doesn’t excite me much. Maybe because everything is a pickup or SUV on the highways. In reviewing the Car and Driver 2026 Editor’s Choice the Best New Cars, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Wagons I find very little difference till you get to the Sports Car section and even some of those are getting close.
Luckily the classic car community is alive and well and I’m looking forward to an active 2026 blinded by chrome, overcome by burnt high octane fuel, hearing gone as the V8s roar to life and speechless at the beauty of some of the restorations.
Just one of the many adventures to take advantage of in spring, summer and fall and bring to this blog.
Chrome, a V8 and blue sky. Not a bad combination. I sense a good driving day today. And I saw a gift card on my desk for our local ice cream venue that I’ll use in the warmth of the day. It’s also a good spot to watch cars cruise Route 40. Not that it’s a hot spot but if it’s a nice day out there will be some rides strutting their stuff.
My little go-cart gets some looks when it’s clean. Which it is most of the time. I didn’t buy it for the looks it gets though. I was pretty set in my thinking that I wanted a high horsepower V8. Like a Dodge Challenger. But I had seen the Miata at the car show over the winter, and it caught my eye.
I kind of went to the dealership with the mindset I’ll rule this out and then go get what I want but from the time I saw it in the showroom and the color I had to sit in it. I loved the interior; it was so snug. Then the salesman said let me pull it outside for a ride.
Well, that did it. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face and every time I sit in it it’s like taking that first test drive. I didn’t even go to the Dodge dealership. I bought the car that day and it just might be the last car I own. Well, my car at least. We will have to replace my better half’s SUV sooner or later.
In another week it will be 10 years old. As the dealer notified me my factory warranty is expiring. It’s still totally stock. The dealership would love it because it’s only got 60K on it. Just for grips and grins I called and was connected with a very helpful person who went over the details and cost of the 5-year 60K-mile extended warranty. A total cost of $5180.00 is something I can’t consider and I’ll detail why.
I’ve had several Mazda’s over decades and luckily, they all have been reliable and low maintenance. The warranty doesn’t cover regular maintenance. Each visit for covered items is $100. Now if they find multiple things it’s still just 100.
This car is in cherry condition. I keep it covered, clean and maintained. I’ve driven it very easy so far. So, in my mind this is like giving away my money for something that won’t be needed.
There is a also the fact that it would have to remain stock over the next 5 years. And while I love it now, I’m going to love it better with a slightly better exhaust note when I change the axle back parts. And if I keep going to these club meetings, I’m going to be tempted to lower it just slightly. All which would be a no-no with a warranty.
I’m going to call her back because she was helpful and give her the reasons, I’m not going to take it and thank her for the time. If it was only $2k I might have thought about it and kept it stock for another 5 years.
I’d rather put the 5-6 thousand into modifications. Funny how that is how much a Supercharger cost.
How has technology changed your job? – Asks the daily prompt.
I used to be a techy. Technology constantly made changes to my career in publishing. It came fast and furious and was exciting as hell to try to keep up with or set the trend.
Being over two years into retirement the changes I used to have to keep up with have passed. I’ve had to learn about E-tickets and Apple wallet. I’ve still to fully explore my navigation system in my car because most of the time I don’t care or I know where I’m going.
I’m getting away from tech, not because I’m scared of change or can’t learn new things. I just prefer a simpler life. Connecting with people in person instead of computer or phone. Not that I don’t like meeting people or having correspondence at all, it’s just not as special as seeing someone smile when they see you or a warm hug or handshake. That feeling will never be replicated online.
I guess one of my jobs in the future is maybe learning the technology of cornering mechanics and driving skills. I’ve been thinking of doing some autocross in the future. Or maybe some track time.
I guess the largest tech interactions I have are with my camera now. That is until my grandchildren start getting into in and I’ll have to learn again to keep up with them.
The E-bike or Electric Bicycle is something that I’m seeing a lot more of. Being older maybe it’s something I should consider. My better half enjoys riding bikes at the beach. We’ve ridden with friends on Kent Island. I like riding also and have been pondering a trip to the local bike store to check out various rides.
I don’t think I’m interested in an e-bike though. I like exercise. I don’t plan on riding much around here anyway. Too much traffic for me. Maybe some trails or parks.
So that means a bike rack to take us to our destinations, which is fine. I’d rather enjoy the experience than be run over.
I’ll have to add this to the list of things to do this afternoon.
The daily prompt asks – How often do you say “no” to things that would interfere with your goals?
The answer used to be rarely, but I’ve grown much better at it. I’m finding a much better balance now and I’m happier for it. Saying no is an important part of life. Following your goals is an important part of life.
But remember when you say no, do it politely. No thank you.
No mam, you cannot chase the lifeguards.
What’s not to like. The Chesapeake Bay, markers for crab pots and Annapolis on the horizon at sunset. I can’t wait to get back to the bay and ocean soon.
I thought about going to the local airport where ICE is deployed. Seeing how many ICE guys I could round up and talk to in one spot and say follow me boys you have come to the right spot finally. The DE-ICING Machines are right out on the runway waiting for you.
Random Thoughts of the Day
So is a fence. I’ve never been big into fences. I had one around the pool but that was mandatory. And not having the pool any longer when this fence has seen its day it won’t be replaced. Then again, you never know who is going to move in next door, so I won’t take it off the list of possibilities in the future.
It’s a good start to a Tuesday so far. Feeling better physically and will see some friends today. And big plans for my hobbies later. Hopefully downloading and editing the days shooting, working on some illustrations and maybe even grabbing a brush with some paint on it.
It’s time to get on my feet and get moving. Have a good morning, all.
Both the mind and body are restless this Monday morning. I feel like I should be doing a lot more. At the same time, I’m tired. I’m struggling to find the right words. I’m not picking up the camera as often as I’d like. I do that when I’m blocked creatively. I’ve got to change this week and get back into the grove.
It’s not like I didn’t have a great weekend. I certainly did and I did accomplish a good bit around the home and yard. And most importantly, time with family and friends.
So, the morning rain has passed, or at least that is my understanding. Still kind of cloudy so lights are still on at this home and other spots.
I have to flip my switch and get busy. And no time like the present.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What a beautiful day in Central Maryland. Being outside in shorts and a tee shirt is sweet. Our local snowball stand was drawing a crowd all day. I’ll go tomorrow when it’s cooler and everyone is back at work.
Felt good to stay busy and active today. In walking the yard and picking up sticks I noticed 2 things. There is a mole, maybe a family or one that is on a mission in my front yard. Second, is the grass is greening up quickly and growing. If it cools off again it might slow it a bit but no more than first weekend in April it will need a cut.
So therefore, motor maintenance is needed on all the tools. I have all the oil and filters. I do need to check the blades. That will be on this week’s agenda.
Feeling like I accomplished a lot today and fit in a few minutes of fun in the Miata for a short ride. About to throw the cover on it before the rains tonight.
It would be nice to be at peace as this sunset is.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Happiness is sometimes an elusive thing. But when you are, you know it.
Today has started off well with the recharge with the family yesterday still providing a smile to my face. The anticipation of a beautiful day outside and a good week ahead.
Who was your most influential teacher? Why? – Asks the daily prompt.
I answered the same question 2 years ago with a post called Teach and not much has changed since then. All those answers are still true.
So today I’ll answer this question a bit differently. I think I’ll list some things that hopefully I’ve taught others along the way.
One thing that won’t need to be taught anymore is being a pressman. I hear the Washington Post is shutting down its Springfield Plant at the end of the year. That will spell the end of the 8 presses they purchased (4 for each plant) in 1995 for $250 million. I started out in Engraving rooms and learned a bit on an old 9-unit Goss press.
The things below are monsters compared to what I learned on.
Funny how a newspaper won’t even be in my grandchildren’s vocabulary in the future apart from me boring them with my history.
You can find some real characters on the beach. I guess that is why I feel so comfortable there. I’m one of them.
Yep, it didn’t take much. I had the top down on the car a few times this week and now all I’m thinking of is getting to the beach a lot this year.
By a quick calculation of mileage and cost per gallon, it’s going to be about $60 per trip. That’s what I get for driving a car that runs on high octane. Good thing the mileage is great.
No problem, counting down the days until I have sand between my toes.
The daily prompt asks – What do you wish you could do more every day?
I thought I remembered this question from a while back and found my answers (in the first batch below) to be pretty similar to what I would still pick today a few years later into retirement.
I’ll update and add a few things to the old list.
Sometimes when I’m feeling blue, I hit a creative wall. Not unlike this one found in Ellicott City.
Seems like we’re going down a path that wasn’t the wisest choice AGAIN. A bit over a year into this mess it keeps getting worse, and like the current war the end is not in sight. The two meanings of Down the Tubes I found are, wasted and unrecoverable and deterioration or failure. Either case it’s bad.
From what I see and hear, most countries think the reputation of the United States is stained badly and may be unrecoverable depending on the continued damage done to it. We certainly have spawned a new generation of terrorist at a minimum.
We are struggling to get a grip on ourselves and take back power from a narcissist toddler who has never been told NO. Well, he is going to hear it soon and it’s not going to be pleasant because till now it’s been his way or the highway.
I don’t know how long the struggle will take. I don’t know if he will be like Hitler and just try to burn this country down if it doesn’t follow his ideology. I don’t know how ugly it will be between now and then. But somehow, I feel majority rule will play out even if he tries to fix the midterm elections.
The drama may end quickly with a whimper. Or it could go out in a civil war over a long period. Our choice. One thing we need to remember, well those in the US. We are all Americans.
This is an easy question to answer from the daily prompt. – What tattoo do you want and where would you put it?
First off, I have nothing against tattoos or other body art. To each their own. I consider myself an artist. I like finding new canvases. But I have no desire to get a tattoo. I was given this body with all its imperfections, and I’ll keep it that way because I’m fine with it and I like myself just the way I was made.
I’ve grown my hair long a few times. I’ve had a beard most of my life. My hair is starting to grey, well in some areas it’s grey and I have no desire to switch my hair color back. I have no desire to replace where it’s starting to thin a bit. I am what and who I am.
I’m also a believer in buyer beware. Age changes our bodies. So maybe the name of this tattoo shop is appropriately named for some choices. (Time Bomb Tattoos)
There are lots of layers to our lives. Sometimes parts of us hold up remarkably well and others become quite weathered. In some ways I think I’m just beginning to scratch the surface of my senior years. So maybe time for a new roof and siding. Nah, what the hell, I’ve gone thought life with this coat on, why change now.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m ready for Spring. Ready for merchants to put up the outside umbrella’s and prepare to throw some shade for us outside dining patrons. Come on Mother Nature, I know you have some warm temps saved up for us.
I think I’m ready for what life throws at me when I’m not. That’s okay, I’m adapting. Life is about adapting to change.
I’m ready to watch a live sunrise at the beach instead of on webcam. Even though it was a beautiful one this morning.
I’m ready for March Madness.
I’m ready for a loved one’s birthday.
I’m ready for some rest because I’m tired mentally.
A Happy St Patrick’s Day to those who enjoy celebrating the wearing of the green. My mother liked St Patrick’s day a lot. She visited Ireland several times. I’m going to have to organize her photos from there someday. Maybe when I finish organizing my own.
Despite the temps feeling below freezing today, I hope to venture out and maybe catch some of the green spirit through my camera lens.
I also hope to spend part of the day interacting with the blogging community which I’ve been neglecting the past few days. I have some reading and viewing to catch up on.
I guess the luck of the green was with us yesterday and this morning. Just a few power hits for a few minutes each, some large branches crashing in the woods behind us and a lot more small ones to pick up in the yard. I hope everyone was also safe and sound from the storms that rolled east.
I think I’ll test my luck today at the new burrito place down the road. I know, it’s not Irish. I’ll go order some Reuben Egg Rolls from Oscars later.
Back to my earlier start to the day. About 3:30am I believe, was the rise and shine. Well, I’ve got the rising part down. Let’s see what I can help shine today.
Yesterday morning, brought some early spring color to my backyard.
I noticed the grass starting to recover and start to green along with some sprouts in the garden recently.
The migration north of our feathered friends will add to the spring palette of color. I’ve got to remember to bring my monopod inside. Shooting handheld at distance is hit and miss. Especially with back spasms going on.
I’m so ready for spring but this month’s forecast isn’t looking that positive for central Maryland. No problem, I’ll just extend my hibernation season.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Thinking about the late start I got on the day both here blogging and in general and I don’t like it. I did get a little rest, but it was a fight and one I’m not sure which side I came out on. At least it was more rest than some nights this week.
I’ll just have to work a little harder, a little longer into the day today. I’ve already got a few shots I liked earlier of some winged wildlife returning to the area. Also cooked up some bacon for breakfast and vacuumed the basement.
The afternoon is free, so I’ll do a little more photography and work on editing some shots I took yesterday and early this morning.
I should get cruising and set out to the sea that is today. To celebrate the peaks and troughs of the waves of life and get to work on the above mission. Either that or kick back and watch some basketball on the heating pad.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I had the annual eye exam this morning and there has been no substantial changes which is nice to hear a doctor say. I didn’t think much had changed but I didn’t think I needed glasses till I got them either. What a relief to hear a doctor say you’re good for another year. Now if I can get the rest of them on board with this attitude.
I’ve gotten used to wearing glasses. I always keep a pair nearby.
Low and behold it’s MARCH MADNESS time. And Maryland made it by the first round of the Big 10 Tournament and played again today so that had my attention for a few hours. One of my two best friends and I watched the last game of the season.
Tonight, I’m getting away from this box and trying my hand at some painting. This afternoon I spent working in the yard but hope to put in a few hours editing images before calling it a night on this system.
Saturday resumes the biggest area car show/meet and I’ll probably attend that for an hour or two. The weather isn’t going to be that warm that day so attendance might not be what the summer months bring. Plus, it will give me a chance to grab a sandwich from the sponsor of the event Mikey and Mel’s Deli.
Deliver everything. How friggen lazy have we gotten. I’ve never used Door Dash or Uber Eats or many other delivery services. We will drive to pick up our carry-out. Yes, we have deliveries. From Amazon which does not make me happy because I’m no Jeff Bezos fan.
I find it amazing how fast our society has transitioned to buying online. You can see it caught a lot of people off guard, like the ones who own all those shopping malls and strip centers and invested in building more. These are now great spaces for car groups to meet up or seasonal carnivals. Huge empty parking lots and empty buildings.
It spurred a whole new industry, porch pirates. It’s certainly put more, not less trucks on the roads. It’s further reduced human contact and experiences. I bet it increased the use of fossil fuels, think of all the people ordering one or two items at a time. How many times did you go shopping and just get one or two things. You picked up what you needed for a while. You thought and you made a list. Now it’s when the whim strikes.
Not to mention the manipulation that goes into online buying.
Oh, and online ticketing is very uncomfortable to me. I like physical tickets. I don’t want to be forced to take my phone to an event. And that uncomfortable feeling if my phone were to die.
If you think we reduced our destruction of forest for the newspaper industry which is disappearing, for the most part guess again. It has been replaced by the cardboard box industry.
Yes, it has a lot of great advantages for the elderly, disabled and those needing meds fast and many other things. But I liked running into neighbors or old friends at the store or parking lot. Yeah, I’m older so I’m not with this because I think I experienced something better and now it’s getting lost.
You’re NEVER NEVER going to see me buying a car online. If I can’t get the dealer to flip me the key and let me test that stick shift it’s NEVER NEVER going to be a deal.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Just went looking around for someone else who is up. Didn’t find anyone. Pretty normal for this time of night. No problem, I’m an expert at entertaining myself. Loneliness is not possible when there is always me myself and I to have a group chat with. I’ve always been a bunch of mixed-up personalities anyway.
Just put the headphones on so I won’t disturb those resting. I needed some music this morning. Was a bit down last night and fell asleep early so I’m up early. What a tangled mess I weave. Music is helping as it always does, getting my thoughts moving in a more positive direction.
Funny I just had a flashback to when I worked a shift where I was getting off work around 3-4am in the morning and those drives home on hot summer nights were great. The pinnacle of NO TRAFFIC. Once I cleared the city line and got onto the highway, I would crank up the volume on my favorite songs and just cruise along at the speed limit or less because of all the wildlife out at that time.
Those were some of the most relaxing rides imaginable. Just having completed a long shift. The dark, quiet and empty highways. Yeah, there was the occasional drunk who finally found his/her keys an hour after the bar closed still trying to make it home. And yes, I used to see a lot of them. But for the most part it was a sweet trip.
Speaking of sweet trips. Today was a top-down day filled with country roads. Boy was it beautiful and did it feel good.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Write a letter to your 100-year-old self. – Now there is an interesting task from the daily prompt.
Dear Mike,
First, congratulations on your making it to the century mark. You are a medical miracle at this point and have defied just about everyone’s expectations.
Secondly it must have been great to have that last 30 or so years to fulfill our dreams. You had better finish a few books and of course built an incredible library of images and art.
I hope our better half is still by our side. Your great grandparents by now. I know you’re driving a stick shift of some kind, be it the old Miata you kept or the wheelchair you might be in.
Probably still rocking out to our old classic rock as you are the 3am hour of night like tonight.
You had better still be laughing as best possible and making others laugh.
I’m guessing you have had to endure some great losses along the way. I know you had losses throughout life. That must be tough not to have many if anyone left to share them with you.
If you’re getting this message, take a ride in this. You will both be 100 years old and still kicking. Look out at the ocean, remember your young self with your family on the beach and in the pool.
I ask for daily desk calendars usually for Xmas. The old Far Side ones are great and had me chuckling this morning. Anything that makes me laugh each day is great. I enjoy political cartoons and some of the older comic strips.
I’ll look at the daily comics occasionally and follow a few cartoonists online but it’s for the laugh. You have to laugh. And late in life, I’ve learned the more you know the more you can laugh at.
I loved watching Looney Tunes and Warner Brothers cartoons and still load the occasional YouTube clip to just sit in mindless enjoyment for a few minutes.
Sometimes I think someone could make a cartoon of some of my friends and my life. Just ask our wives, our logic is impeccable. Well maybe impeccably flawed most of the time but we make them laugh. And I mean we make them laugh hard sometimes. We are often called a bunch of characters by many. It’s certainly an animated group. Of course, the dialog boxes about the characters might not have enough room for all our banter.
But the important piece here is that you find something yourself, to help you smile, to elicit a laugh, to make you feel better.
I wrote this piece well before I took these photos, but I couldn’t resist combining two of my passions here.
Oh yeah, Coyote
And the winner is Road Runner
Watch your doors with this guy.
Saw a friend out and we acknowledged each other. He’s not too talkative. Occasionally he has an attitude where he will stomp his foot which means I’m not in the mood for it today. Sometimes though he and others will stand there and let me yap at them. They will even resume grazing.
I won’t be strolling the next two days. I’ll be out strutting. I’ve been waiting all winter to get that top down on a nice day and stretch my legs in that Miata. Also, a nice long walk outside instead of the treadmill will be nice. I think I’ll get some carry-out also and have lunch outside. It’s been a while since that treat.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There are benefits to being a rather obscure blogger. I don’t get hate comments, so far. My grammar or images might not be the best that day, or many days. That’s fine with me because I’m learning by doing.
I’m fine with it because it’s kind of a selfish effort. I do it for me and anyone else who could get enjoyment out of it. Be it a laugh, an emotion from a picture. Or maybe a random thought that connects with someone.
I do it for my family so they might have something to reflect on later because I know they are too busy to keep up with this now.
I create in hopes that something comes together that fits in with the wonderful work I see others create with such ease and frequency.
I’ve been reminded through my professional career that it’s the journey that’s the fun part, not the destination. So, I’ll get my lunch pale, tools and gloves and get to work each day.
I’ve always liked to work. I don’t like to refer to my hobbies as work, but they are work. I devote time and effort to them just like a job. Just with a lot more personal passion and fun, mixed with the limitations of time being a senior citizen and busy grandparent.
Sometimes in life I’ve felt obscure, almost invisible. Lots of times actually. And the older I get the more that feeling seems to come around. I guess that is why I feel okay with it. I’m cool with doing my own thing and enjoying life as I cook it up each day.
I’m not into the question of the day – What is your middle name? Does it carry any special meaning/significance?
The only person who used my middle name was my mother and that is when she wasn’t happy with me. So that is all I have to say about my middle name.
Onto this thought then. – Days I spend with my grandchildren, I find life much clearer, fun, loving and simpler.
Waiting for your ship to come in? Referring to becoming successful or wealthy as the dictionary says. Not me, because I’m not interested in it either. I do feel successful in my own ways but not in a way society would judge as successful. And I have wealth but not the monetary kind.
I think I’m happier not chasing riches or fame. I’ve chased financial stability, which is also quite illusive, but never riches. Success is not measured by others. You have to be good with yourself. I bet if Michael Jordan had only given 50% effort and was still the best player in the game the success wouldn’t have been as sweet.
That term – waiting for your ship to come in – is one I think of when I see people playing the lottery or gambling. That ambition for much more. The disappointment when it doesn’t come. I’m drawn to that, but I know how dangerous that mindset is for me. So, I don’t gamble.
I refuse to do these betting apps or services. It’s too easy and too addictive. When I think about gambling, I think there is someone who is hungry, that could use a meal or sick and in need of a cure. So, I donate to those causes instead.
I don’t know where the right balance is. My current impression is that we swung too far the other way and have incorporated gambling and sports together and I worry that it could be the death of some sports when coaches, players, refs, owners get caught up in it. It’s just too much money for some people to pass up.
Many don’t even realize their ship has already come in with the gifts already received. That is kind of sad. One of the good things about not having it all is you appreciate what you have more. I look at some having it all in monetary wealth, as a burden.
Random Thoughts of the Early Morning
Good morning isn’t it wonderful to wake up to another day. I’m beginning to wonder if the sun is going to make an appearance again. Talk about your dark, foggy, wet dreary weeks. Here is hoping for much better days ahead.
I’m looking forward to getting to the beach before sunrise and laying in the sand or standing out on the rocks watching the day begin this spring, summer and fall.
I could spend the day looking out over the water.
I took my first Uber this year.
I’ve never watched UFC MMA fighting. But I love the sport of boxing.
I always had a beard because I like it. But the time and expense I save by not having to shave each day is a nice side benefit.
I like placing good memories in my children and grandchildren minds for all time.
When I retired, I dropped keeping up with technology like a hot potato.
Did you ever have a day without one problem? Me neither.
I used to like watching CBS.
I finished my first painting in decades this year.
I have the desire to ride a skateboard again, but the sense not to.
This has been a year of big changes. Keep’em coming.
Ignoring spell/grammar check at times, makes me feel powerful.
What is the last thing you learned? – asks the daily prompt.
I learned my energy bill was high again when it came yesterday. I learned that starting and ending the day with music is a positive way to go. I learned my expectations of people are far too great.
I didn’t answer the daily writing prompt till almost 11am this morning. Usually, I knock that out well before 6am. I was up early this morning at 12:30am but failed to do it before I went back to bed for a few hours at 6am.
Now I’m feeling better and I’m back in the swim. I’m getting my weight back under control. I got a little sloppy with sweets the last few weeks.
This is going to be a good year. A good start and hopefully a strong spring season ahead. I’m feeling a little more inspired today hopefully I can maintain that and make it a productive Friday.
There is a song by The Who called Who Are You. I find asking that of myself often. I think I’ve discovered it’s a journey of constantly finding out more about yourself. Just when I think I know myself pretty well, I’m amazed at finding something new. One might think by this age discoveries would be far and few between.
On the contrary, you’re tested more as you age into your senior years. You find courage and mental coping abilities you never suspected you would need. Challenges still are there every day plus some you didn’t count on.
I’m trying to embrace this stage of life. Mentally, I still feel very young. The grandkids seem to think so because they like playing with me. I’m trying to stay more active than I’ve been in years. I escape depressions faster. I’m still learning each day and figuring out what is important.
Random Thoughts of the Day
How has a failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success? – Asks the daily prompt.
I answered this question 2 years ago in a post titled – Righting Failure – but I’ll add a new one to the list.
Midway through my professional career I decided to go out on my own, with two partners and form our own business. It didn’t work out for me, and I felt like I failed. I wasn’t really suited for role I was playing. Starting over again from 40 years old is scary but I landed a great job at The Washington Post and spent the rest of my career there.
I just realized I have a lot of lists. I guess it’s a lot, it feels like a lot now that I’ve counted it. And even on those lists, there are sub-lists. Either I’m really organized or just a poor finisher who never completes anything and therefore list just grows.
The truth is somewhere between those two. I do complete and cross off a lot of stuff on my lists. But there is a lot of stuff on those lists still.
The lists are good. It’s a spot to come back to when you lose your way. Looking at them helps you sometimes prioritize better. Sometimes you have something on the list that one day you say, I don’t want to do that and remove it.
Lots of people use lists. I see a lot of them in the grocery stores and during holiday times. I see people walk into the auto repair shop with a list. You see people buying lunch for a team of people with a list.
Sometimes when I get to run errands, I’ll write myself a list, so I don’t skip by a needed stop.
I like it when we forget our list. Both my better half and I have called each other to take a picture of the list and text it to us because we left it on the counter and went out the door without it.
I guess people still ask for birthday and Christmas gift lists.
The List of my Lists
We need to get a list of fishing dates. It’s been many years since we have been out together.
I have no regular sleep pattern. I was doing okay for a while after retirement, but it didn’t last. I’m up all hours of the day and night. I nap mainly. An hour here, 2 hours there, maybe 3 or 4 hours when I actually get in bed. But no longer usually. I guess that works for me.
I wake up lots of times due to my restless mind. The majority are aches or spasm related that disturb my rest. Sounds also play a part in that because I guess I hear very well still.
I have no trouble falling asleep. But still, a few hours and I’m awake. I’m getting better at making use of the time instead of fighting it. And I think that is helping when I do lay down for some rest again. I’ve stopped being frustrated when I wake up.
Like this evening, I fell asleep around 9:30pm and woke at 1am and worked till 6:30am and then nap for another 3 hours.
There is still the occasional night, that I’m just up all night and sleep a few hours during the day.
Maybe after a certain number of years of working night shifts, you become part or wholly nocturnal.
Tonight, I will probably flip the script and stay up till 2-3am and then crash for 3-4 hours. I can’t wait till it warms up so this nocturnal creature can start venturing out at night again.
This doesn’t look like spring to me. Snow on Monday and Tuesday morning. Then freezing rain and then rain and now we have fog. At least the cover is on the car, and I don’t have to go anywhere if I choose not to. Not the start to March I was looking for.
Monday was both a productive and lazy day. A good start to the morning but I faded before lunch and took a nap. The late afternoon I’ve gotten very busy and I carried it into the early evening. Passed out at 9:30 and was up at 2am this morning having some fun.
I saw my daughters and granddaughters’ school was delayed 2 hours yesterday. Hopefully the last delay of the year for them.
Tuesday was productive editing photos, making more prints and uploading images. Felt tired and crashed early
Photography Thoughts of the Day
Always someone wants to climb the ladder higher. Some willing to step all over you. I’m glad to be out of that rat race. When I started off work it was much more team orientated. When I left it was like we were set up to compete against one another. A bit of a contrast but that is life, I guess.
I have a 28-foot ladder and that looks like only the second highest along this wall. Those taller ones are impressive.
I try to avoid ladders now but being a homeowner makes that impossible. The occasional cleaning of the gutter guards and power washing the siding require some ladder time. I’ve pretty much cleaned out the attic so no need to get up there. My better half doesn’t like me on ladders since one of our neighbors fell and passed.
I’m not climbing social ladders, I’m not climbing political ladders, I’m not climbing popularity ladders. I guess the climbing I do now is when I set the incline on the treadmill.
I’m walking much more this year and I’m feeling better for it. I’ve exceeded last year’s effort already and hope to increase my time as I go throughout the year. Most days my back feels better for it. At least I’m having more good days than not. Days when my back does ache, it’s sometimes difficult to get on the treadmill. And I usually limit the time those days.
Soon I’ll be outside again, and I’ll need to remind myself to watch the terrain a bit. Plus, the difference when I’m walking outside, is that I’m usually carrying a camera of some type.
Then there is the hiking walking when I choose that route, more inclines and dips, uneven footing even on worn trails. One thing I have to get this year is a harness strap vest for heavy cameras. I’ve seen a few that have one mounted on the middle of the chest and one on the hip. They look like they distribute the weight much better than just having a heavy camera around my neck which hurts both my neck and lower back after a while.
Today I’ve gotten a good start already having put an hour in on the treadmill.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What are three objects you couldn’t live without? – Asks the daily writing prompt.
At first, I really had a hard time thinking of objects I couldn’t live without. I don’t like to think there is any material thing I could live without. But really, it’s a good question to think about. Simple things like fires or natural disasters can take everything in the blink of an eye.
Thinking of losing everything and only keeping 3 things would be tough. So, you start to think about what isn’t replaceable. The little things over time from the grandkids, my own children, the little things my better half and I have done together and saved. The things we have saved from our parents that mean the world to us.
I’d be very depressed if I lost all my images, artwork and writing. I wanted to include this in the 3 but that would be selfish. I would go on living and creating new ones.
I really like my old Miata and driving that. But I lived without it. I grew up without all the digital devices we have today so I know I can live without them.
I guess I would have to pick 3 personal items. One of my mom and dad’s things I’ve kept. Maybe his burial flag and her scarf. Next would be a personal item from my life with my better half. Maybe the ring or a photo of us when we were young. Last would be a big chest of all the photos of the children and grandchildren we have from birth to now.
Is a week a week?
A new week, so says the calendar. I’m not really on a schedule, but so many others I interface with are on that work schedule which begins today. Mine has no beginning and end. It’s just when I decide to take a break.
It’s somewhat different not having that weekly reset. The weekly staff meeting reviewing last week’s work and the coming weeks ahead hasn’t been part of my life for a few years now.
Those short- and long-term goals list that the manager wanted is long gone and I just add and subtract as I want now. Nobody but myself reviews my performance.
I’ll always be wishing my children a good week ahead on Monday. Asking my better half what we have this week is still pretty much my routine. And wishing my best friends a good week at the job is a Monday habit even before I retired.
The shows on tv sometimes remind me of the day of the week. Doing the daily blog always keeps me aware of the date and day. But the further removed I get from that weekly cycle, the more relaxed and freer I feel.
So, while I wish you all a great week ahead, I’m taking it more day by day and seeing what life brings me.
I haven’t missed the commute back and forth to work at all. But I have become too much of a homebody and need to get out more.
In the background I hear the local news talking about possible snow. I’m going to keep a brighter outlook and ignore that nonsense. I can hibernate for a few more days if needed.
Photography Thoughts of the Day
I got to spend the day with my son and grandson attending a University of Maryland basketball game and then having a meal together. What a great time that was. That little guy makes me feel so loved. He wanted me to carry him a lot today and he sat on my lap almost the entire game. And he wanted to sit by me for the meal. Of course I had to share my milkshake with him.
Unfortunately, Maryland didn’t win the game but I’m a winner today without a doubt. I hope I’m granted many more days together with all my children and grandchildren. This is a special week coming up also with another grandchild’s birthday celebration.
It’s also a week where the schedule is pretty open. We don’t get many of those weeks, so we had better take advantage of it. I know I’m making lots of plans already. Most of it is working on the hobbies.
Photography Thoughts of the Day
Some days are just like that. Where that old saying “fit to be tied” gets thrown around. Be it too many lose ends at the job or home. Or projects at a standstill. Or that bill you know you paid but they are claiming is overdue.
Is your body or mind fit to be tied? Not eating right. Not sleeping right. Too much stress. Zipping from one thing to another and then zipping back again.
Are you at the end of your rope. Having trouble hanging on. Does the climb look too great. Is the wind blowing you off course.
Well, hang on because that is just life. It’s what happens when you’re not having a good day. On the upside, you will have lots of company struggling with you.
I’ve always found it challenging to get out of a bind. To overcome a situation. To make that difficult payment over and over. To get over a loss.
But over time the sheer number of challenges takes its toll, and I find myself not wanting to deal with them as I used to.
Being a one-man band is both fun and challenging. It is also limiting in ways. Time to work on all the ideas and projects just runs out before they all can be accomplished. And I’ve now accepted that and it actually helps me prioritize better now.
The only limiting factor is how much I’m willing to do. And lately I’m finding I’m doing more. Not just blogging but in all facets of my work.
In ways we are all flying solo through life. I’ve been thinking about that and feeling it as of late.
Saw an interesting article – If you grew up in 70s, you likely developed these 5 rare traits most people don’t have today. I could relate to a lot of that.
Just blowing in the wind this afternoon. I don’t know how many shades of blue it takes to describe a sky, but it seems almost infinite.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I never was a gamer. I remember playing pong and a few other early games but nothing since really. The kids had some when they were young, but I didn’t play much at all.
I enjoyed pinball and foosball when I was younger. But mostly we were outside playing games in our youth. We made games up, we played traditional sports games. We rode bikes a lot before there were special bikes meant for riding trails and doing jumps. We road skateboards that were a flat piece of wood with wheels so thin it required massive skill just to stay on let alone do tricks with.
I have nothing against the games except they aren’t done in moderation and mixed with other activities like getting outside and off the floor or couch. I’m glad my children found a good balance, and I think they will teach their children a good balance.
Maybe when I get very old and can’t get off the couch, I’ll take up gaming. Till then, I’ll pass.
This season is typically lacking the color we find in spring, summer, and fall. But occasionally it appears. It’s almost time to think about the last snow of the season. I see some mixed precipitation on Tuesday and I’m hoping that is it. We have had snow in March, but it isn’t that common and I’m so sick of the cold weather a really warm March would be nice.
The last day of February is upon us. Not my most productive month but I’m somewhat satisfied with the effort. Hopefully I’ll emerge from hibernation soon and resume my nature shooting.
I don’t know what is on the agenda today and I’m afraid to look at the calendar or any of my to-do list. I’d like it to be one of those days where I just go with my flow and let my thoughts guide my actions.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
It’s odd having the house to myself overnight. My better half is at my son’s home watching his dog. She returns later today so things will be back to normal.
What I did enjoy was being able to listen to music through the speakers instead of having to use the headphones in the middle of the night when I’m usually up. I liked taking the trash out at 3am because that is when I remembered to do it and didn’t have to worry about waking her. I liked leaving all the dishes in or by the sink till I put them away an hour before she returns.
Having dinner at 10:30pm wasn’t an issue. I enjoyed having the bed to myself again, like I did when we were on two different sleep schedules. I danced through the house on my way to different rooms because I had music loud enough to hear throughout the house.
I used the Dremel tool in the middle of the night. Oh yeah, that reminds me. I usually crank up the temperature a few degrees when she’s gone for any length of time, but I always return it the previous setting well before she comes home.
I parked the cars in odd spots, which I’ll move back soon.
Well, let me do that and take the recycling out, bring the trash can in from the road, adjust the thermostat, take care of the dishes and pick up my clothes and take a shower. And that pile of shredding that I have to finish. I’ve been promising to vacuum the basement also.
And if I feel motivated, I must renew my tags and get the emissions test done on my car. I better get my behind in gear.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What a night out with the boys. Lots of laughter, tacos, vacation discussions, fishing trip plans and solved a lot of the world’s problems. Unfortunately, the Maryland men’s basketball team didn’t come out with the victory, but we had a good time anyway.
A cloudy day so far so I’ll concentrate on indoor photography and painting. I will venture out, maybe the hardware store for some Dremel bits. I have to pick up a car from the garage.
I’m getting disgusted looking at the mess this office is. Well, it’s not horrible but it needs some maintenance.
This is going to be a good day. Even though I’m going to have to put the cover back on the car before the rain comes later.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It would be nice to have a classic car. I’m working on one now. It’s turning 10 and I’m pretty sure I’ll be keeping it till I can’t drive anymore and then a few years more just to sit in it or have someone drive me around in it.
I can’t get enough of classic cars. Who knows, maybe I’ll pick one up someday. The designs, chrome, wheels were all so unique. In the 60s and 70s if 10 people saw a getaway car they could tell you the brand, year, model, color, 2 or 4 door, trim package and engine size because that was on an emblem on the side.
Today you would get – it was grey, maybe dark grey, maybe metallic, somewhere between a 2010 and 2026, couldn’t tell how many doors it had. It could have been a Nissan, Toyota, Hyundai, Subaru, Mazda, Kia or Honda something. It was a possible EV, Hybrid, Fuel sucker. If 10 people saw this getaway car they couldn’t agree if it was a sedan, crossover or SUV.
I didn’t start out with the intention of having so many car shots in the blog but I kind of like hanging out at the shows, getting ideas about paint colors I like and modifications. And then dreaming about an old muscle car sitting in the driveway next to the Miata.
But that would lead to all kinds of problems because then I would have to modify the muscle car. And then get a trailer for it. Oh, and buy a pickup to tow it to events of some distance. Well, hey, I can dream.
I’ll be happy if I can keep that current car running for a long time. Because after driving it this evening for the first time in a month, it’s one of my great joys.
This green bottle used to be my penny jar. The light coming through my office window one morning cast its shadow. Almost looks like a painting.
Sometimes the simplest shots are right in front of us. It’s funny the difference some days make. There are days I struggle to find what I like or any opportunity to get something good. Other days I wander and just turn and fire, low and behold I come home with a wealth of images.
I guess that is that natural ebb and flow of luck and energy and the right time and right place.
I didn’t get as much shooting done yesterday as I hoped. Today is another opportunity, but one challenged by chores and tasks. Also, a Maryland game to watch later and a few miles on the treadmill. And the other list I haven’t checked yet could probably fill a few more days so off I go for a bit.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. I was in my workroom and a piece of wood with a knot had overlayed some templates I was using for a mug carving project for a friend who likes The Who. It caught my attention. I moved it just slightly and grabbed a shot.
I should have moved that drop light, but it did create a nice shadow around him and then the guitar in the darkness.
I was going through and editing/housecleaning/organizing some of my photo vault and came across this photo. I was going to trash it when I said to myself, what the hell, give it a shot. It was taken in Annapolis MD on a day with my daughter.
I was trying to come up with the best caption for whatever this is.
Like the parking space says, visitor from another time period. Just like me. I’m a drop top man also but this ride is a little too heavy for me. It is a color my daughter would like though.
Good day all. That sun this morning is inspiring me to get moving. And then I opened the door and that cold 20 something degree temp hit me. I will still venture out but I don’t see much time in that cold.
Won’t be long till the car shows crank up again and I’ll be out early on Saturday or Sunday mornings with all the other motorheads appreciating the works of automotive art and performance.
Let me get moving here and go collect some fresh images.
I feel my intensity building. And no better time than now to funnel it into some action. My furnace is stoked and I’m ready to cook.
Music had slipped out of my daily routine for a while, but I’m made the proper course correction, and the dust is off the speakers and headphones. That always releases some good feelings and a smile. And when the weather changes and the car stereo is on with the top-down life will be great again.
I’ve got a few dozen new images to upload to the photo site and some blogs there to catch up on. As well as a lot of them here on WordPress I haven’t been keeping up with properly. Not out of obligation, I enjoy your work.
I’ve got a lot of alone time to fill today. I see some sunshine in the forecast, so I think I’ll head out with the camera and capture a fresh set of doors for this Thursday’s challenge. As well as filling some other holes in the portfolio.
Time to fire off this computer and accomplish something.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m warm and toasty inside despite that nastiness outside. Just heard the plow come through.
Alone again in the office looking at some prints I made earlier and what wall they will go on. Thinking of venturing outside and taking some pictures. Then again after opening the door and catching some of that wind, I’m rethinking the expedition.
I was watching the webcams in Ocean City Maryland and many of them went offline last night with that blizzard. Any drink you order there will be a frozen one. Got this snapshot above from the 94th Street cam overlooking Coastal Highway just before daylight.
If I’m lucky, I can see myself wearing a path between my front door and the beach this year. And many points in between because I’d like to do a lot of Eastern Shore of Maryland photography. There are many great small towns and waterways to explore.
That will also serve the dual purpose of having the fun of getting to and from those destinations in my Miata. I can’t explain how much fun that has been to drive.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Just doing my part to put a brighter face on a sloppy day. Old man winter is telling me I better get a snowblower and hang up the shovel or there will be hell to pay. I guess this last decade of just dustings gave me a false sense of security. I just looked outside and the snow is beginning in earnest.
Just about time to head upstairs and prepare dinner. I’ve met my goal of cooking a few times this week and hope to build on that this coming week. I’ll have to get a few new ideas for our feast.
I see the Lakers and Celtics play tonight. The time when you would say that you would have a major viewing event is long past. While both teams are good and the Celtics could compete for a championship, the Lakers would need a miracle to make the Finals. I might catch a few minutes, but I’d rather work on my hobbies.
I’m on a roll building out my photo site more this past week and hope to continue that effort. Now if I could devote some time to the easel and woodwork, I’d be smiling ear to ear.
It doesn’t feel like a late Sunday afternoon. The kids are probably excited that the prospect of school tomorrow is fading away with every snowflake. And parents are wondering what we are going to do for childcare because work is still going to expect staff tomorrow morning.
My only responsibility is to check to make sure that the snow isn’t getting too deep tonight where I have to do it in two sessions. Other than that, I wake early to do my hobbies and that is so sweet not to have to think about fighting the elements if I don’t want to. I really should get out and take some snow pictures though. These bright flowers are a bit out of season here.
I was going through some of my parent’s old photos and found this one of an intersection. It was very familiar to me because I drove through it for almost 3 decades coming home from work in Washington DC. It’s the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road/Route 29 looking northbound in Silver Spring Maryland.
By the age of the cars, I’m guessing this was shot in the 1950s. Check the Silver theater on the top right of center.
Here is a shot I took one night on the way to work about a decade ago of that same theater.
Photo rule #63. If you slip and fall and find yourself on your butt, take a photo. You can go to the doctor later.
When I feel I’m losing my grip, I turn inward and try to recover. Such is today’s feeling. I’ve got to get back to creating some new work. I’ve started with some music and some visual inspiration from various artists this morning.
I just put the camera on the tripod and have a few ideas to execute once I clear and make some studio space. Tonight, might be an opportunity to do some night snow shooting depending on the depth we are getting. Maybe some cooking shots while preparing dinner. I missed a good opportunity Friday night when I had all those red, orange and yellow peppers cut up and grilled.
When I get stuck, I stop seeing opportunities to create. I’m getting better at getting unstuck but I’m human and depression has always followed me. Waiting for the opportunity to block me at every turn. It prevents proper rest. It twists thoughts. I neglect my body maintenance. I feel guilty about what I haven’t accomplished instead of forging ahead.
Time to shake it off and get moving again. Some time on the treadmill, being I neglected that yesterday is a good way to start. Double up today’s walk to make up for the slackness.
Got some Northern Cotton in bloom. And no, I’m not looking forward to more snow on Sunday. I had better make good use of today then and do a few things with the cars that need attention.
Music has been guiding me today. Very introspective afternoon and evening on Friday. Some of the lyrics have really hit home. Some of the hard driving cords have me kind of pumped up. Which is good because I’m hitting the treadmill in a few minutes. And then some light weights.
I’m on a daily routine with it now like I am blogging so it’s just adding to the frequency and intensity of my workout.
You can Go, you can Stop, you can proceed with Caution. Personally, I’m on GO today and I see no reason to change that in the future. I had my grandson and son visit today. The young one is on GO+, with endless energy. He will be 4 years old this summer and I love this age.
They are so curious and fun and imaginative. We played, ate lunch and talked up a storm. Fixed dinner for my better half and now back to the computer. I think I’m going to try cooking all weekend.
Sounds like Caution may be the word of the weekend weather with either a blizzard or dusting on its way Sunday. That might Stop some plans but not mine. I’m going for it this weekend on several fronts. One is hoping to be more active here with some fresh images and thoughts.
So, caution to the wind. Full speed ahead.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Could there be? Could there be a glimmer of hope for just a little sunshine before the rain comes today. I don’t think it’s asking too much. I need that inspiration. I need that warmth. I need it to dry things out and continue the ice melt. I need it to see so I can put air in my tire that is low today.
I need you so I can walk outside again instead of the many miles on the treadmill.
My friends were pointing out that sunrise used to be the end of my day. Yes, that was true. I saw many a sunrise on the way home from work. Sometimes I’d go to bed in the morning and sometimes closer to noon. And once a week, I’d see the sunrise twice in a 24-hour waking period when I would transition back from day shift to nights.
They were also laughing at my ability to eat whatever at any time of the day or night. That comes from years of eating at all hours of the day and night.
Found an interesting site about night and shift work – From Redline 2024 Stats on America’s off hours workforce.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’ve got to reach out to someone important tonight and try to brighten their day. Then again, I’m still working on myself this fine Tuesday afternoon. I’ve put a few miles on the treadmill and tried to get comfortable, but the spasms won’t let up for long.
Walking has really helped with my back pain. So, I’ll try some more this evening.
A few chores and tasks have been completed today. Unfortunately, the list is as plentiful as the number of sunflower seeds in the above bloom.
Wishing I was as productive as yesterday. I must take advantage of this evening to feel like it’s been a good effort today.
All these responsibilities when we return home suddenly reappear. And it’s my better half who has by far been the busiest. Taking a week off from the normal routine has a way of paying itself back.
Let me set sail from this computer chair, surfing through some of my old photo galleries and instead sit with the paint brush for a few moments at the easel.
Feeling tight this morning. The body is constricted and therefore the mind isn’t free. Let’s see if we can work things out. The treadmill hasn’t helped so far. Neither has some stretching. Trying round two of both of those with some light dumbbells to hopefully work out the kinks.
It sort of feels like a rude cloudbank creating a lot of turbulence that bounced me around too much.
Monday was very productive. Uploaded a few series of shots of a local town I had missed before and filled out a better look at that little slice of Maryland. I’m going through my vault each day and trying to find things I haven’t uploaded to the photo site before. That is one of my priorities each day this year.
Once I’m satisfied, I’ve got most of my good stuff there and organized and presented correctly I’ll start making more references to it here. The Canon printer was also active on Monday so there are some new images to hang on the family and friend walls.
Accomplished some editing from the Florida shooting and will finish and upload that later today.
But I’d really like to spend some time painting and photographing. So let me get up from this keyboard and back to addressing feeling better.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you? – An interesting and timely question for this country.
Yes – Willing to defend this country and living by the Constitution. Respecting and supporting those who serve and served. I cheer our teams at the Olympics and other international competitions. At one point I thought this country had a greater sense of shared values but I’m not so sure anymore.
I’m being told I’m the enemy of the people by our current president for working a job I had for decades and having opinions that run contrary to his. While at the same time considering myself a patriot, and far more than the one accusing me of not being one. I get the feeling the country is at war with itself.
We seem to be divided more than any point I can remember. I think it even exceeds the turmoil in the 60s and 70s. And I was around for that mess also. This separation is running deep breaking families and long-standing friendships. I don’t think either side feels less patriotic than they were before all this division started. I love the flag just as much as any flag waving MAGA person.
We have separated into us and them. We don’t debate issues, you either tow the current line, or you are the enemy and need to be punished. Our way or the highway. Well, that isn’t the way it’s supposed to be.
If you want to be patriotic. Spend a day at Arlington National Cemetery and feel the magnitude of sacrifice. I’m going to do that in March when it warms up.
Found a small series of shots that I had bypassed before. Probably because the images aren’t the sharpest, but the subject is very nice. I believe this is a Northern Flicker but please correct me if I’m mistaken. I’m no bird expert.
Nature photography is something that requires patience.
I love it when I can get a half decent image.
Some subjects can be so shy.
But others will give you portrait shots all day long.
Photos by Mike Hartley
A rainy and dreary day in Central Maryland. I wasn’t looking for something bright and sunny but as I was sorting through some old shots, I found this one I was about to trash. The focus isn’t as sharp as some other ones in the series I used but I do like the softness.
My better half pointed out how infrequently I’m relaxed this past week. And she is right. I guess it’s a mixture of things through my history. I won’t bore you with that mess but it’s something I need to work on.
Exercise again has reminded me that it is a good form of letting the body cycle and relax. My hobbies relax me but there are times I neglect them.
Just sitting and taking in life on a warm beach for a few moments this past week kind of restored my balance because of the stress this winter season puts on me. Returning to the snow still on the ground wasn’t the greeting I was hoping for but maybe we are about to turn the corner on the season.
We love our home and being here. We also discovered we like being away a bit also. So maybe a better balance this year will be a good way to relax. We aren’t world travelers. Southern Florida was the furthest we have been from home in decades and that’s less than a thousand miles.
Maybe not putting myself in stressful situations. Eating better and spending time with positive people.
There is one thing I probably won’t ever relax about. The wellbeing and happiness of my children and grandchildren. That is unless we are on a family vacation and they are all right in front of me eating ice cream in Ocean City. Then I’m relaxed.
I think I’ll relax tonight with a good evening’s rest.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Happy Valentines Day, to my beautiful, better half.
Nothing Is Easy – At least that is what the song title says of an old Jethro Tull classic. But I think it holds true in real life for anything that is important. Sitting on the beach and listening to the waves is easy. Getting vacation time and money to go to the beach, dealing with the drive and traffic isn’t.
I told my son about it (nothing is easy) because he was thinking about getting some property when he moved to a new home. He was being a good Son and helping me in my yard at the time. I emphasized how much work it can be and having to pay someone for it wasn’t going to be easy. I didn’t say it to dissuade him but to enlighten him.
When we moved to this home, I didn’t think a bit over an acre was too much property. And it’s not if you’re a young man and don’t have the money to pay someone else.
I didn’t ask the kids for much help in the yard when they were growing up. I wanted them to have the time to be children and pursue their own interests. Yeah, sometimes that was just playing, but that was fine with me also. In one sense that didn’t prepare them for their own properties but then again, they will have lots of time to learn it. And from what I’ve seen so far, they won’t have any problems with it.
They have already learned having a career isn’t easy. They have been at it for about a decade and a half now and found out a lot about work and life. Work takes up a tremendous amount of time and energy. It’s not always fair in many aspects. You learn a lot about people that you didn’t know.
The kids saw their grandparents’ bodies and minds fail and now they are seeing us age, and nothing is easy about that from either perspective.
Choosing good friends isn’t easy. Getting the right exercise isn’t easy. Eating healthy isn’t easy. Being in love isn’t easy. Being a parent isn’t easy. Being a good friend, lover, partner, parent, son, professional isn’t easy but it’s worthwhile.
You might think of term Easy Rider when seeing this picture. Having ridden a bit, there isn’t anything easy about that either, but it’s a hell of a lot of fun just like all those other things in life.
More Random Thoughts of the Day
Stop, refocus, find your light.
Often, I feel like I lose my way. Be it not focusing on what’s important now or finding ways to sidetrack myself. I’m torn between wanting to work on my hobbies 12 hours a day and kicking back and relaxing most of the day.
I try my best each day, but I know I’m not as productive as I would like to be at times. Finding a balance and being happy at the same time is tough. I still beat myself up when I relax too much or perceive that I have.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Coming from a generation that used these, I have a better perspective and patience when I experience computer issues. I think back to when I began with computers and the waiting time to do things. And I wonder if things are being dismissed now out of how long it takes to do something.
I’m feel the art of craftmanship is being lost. I think of how the process of something like photography has changed just since I started. Unloading film in the dark onto reels, pouring chemicals in and out, taking the negatives to the enlarger, moving exposed paper from tray to tray of chemicals under the red lights in a darkroom.
In some ways that attention to all the details and all the steps involved along the way made that final image something special. I guess growing up in a generation where everything was printed, I kind of still default to that in my photography. Yes, I have a photo site but making prints is what excites me.
I worry that so much could be lost on people’s electronic devices that much history could disappear. Plus, I like seeing images on walls and not just paint.
I still have thousands of slides to get digitized from my parent’s years. And prints made from the best of those. And I just looked over at my printer and thought I had better end this and get that device rolling.
I enjoy participating in the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by 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.
Shots from the same town for 3 weeks in a row, sorry about the repetition. Yep, I had to go to the vault again but no more after this week. I’m going outside again to a new town and will have fresh doors next week.
Pretty much fitting for this country now. A door on the left and one on the right.
Nothing a little love can’t fix.
This small town of Ellicott City is an endless source of material.
We all have them. None of us are exactly alike. How we deal with our differences is often the issue. In the last few months, it seems like I’ve encountered an increasing number of differences with people. Some, that I used to overlook, but now are much harder to accept.
I don’t know if it’s age and a growing lack of tolerance for BS or maybe I’m just noticing the differences more and accepting them less. Maybe it’s because differences have turned into non-negotiable points with some people. Like it or leave it sort of mentality.
Could be those around me are also getting older and struggling with differences also compounding situations.
Maybe I’m the one who’s different and people are just less accepting of it now.
Or maybe others are just more front and center in my face now.
For today, I’ll pick get a haircut and look a little different.
I think it’s something old in me that makes me think every time I need a haircut or trim my beard, should I let it go. Should I let it down past the shoulders again, or bring back the burly beard?
I hadn’t trimmed the beard in a while, so it was getting thick and a bit long. I looked in the mirror with trimmers in hand motionless. Do I skip it and let it grow long? Do I change the setting to a longer setting than I normally use?
Damn, this happens to me every time. Same with the haircut. I start with stupid crap like thinking of the money you could save. Think of how good that long hair felt in my teens, 20s and 30s. I never went the tattoo or piercing routes so maybe that was the rebel in me.
I haven’t cared much what others thought of my style except my better half, and she is tolerant with me. The only thing that stops me is the time in between it takes getting long again. I remember letting it go during Covid and it still wasn’t near being long again.
Plus, I do remember the extra care and it being a pain in the wind. So, I guess we’re sticking with the short cut and neatly trimmed beard.
I try to be consistent. Like the waves hitting the shore. Some days smoothly, some days with thunder. But every day, every few seconds we break onshore. Blogging is one thing that keeps me consistent. Trying to get new images for it keeps me consistent.
I’m much more pleased with the images I share than the words. I wish I could express my thoughts more clearly at times and come up with interesting and witty topics/subjects.
I think it’s partially because I’m confused as to what I want to do and accomplish. In some ways the blog is a lot of fun and play. In other ways it’s kind of serious to me. I don’t mind doing it in obscurity for the most part. I do it for the few that might come across it and see or read something they like, a few family members and a very few friends who look at it and mainly for myself.
In some ways it’s like a daily challenge. I go through other blogs reading and gazing at wonderful words and images. And I think to myself I want to be part of that and see if something I create works. In other ways it’s practice for the book I hope to write for my kids someday.
Occasionally blogging is for my own therapy. Maybe expressing some things or thoughts that are part of me. It certainly helps me start the day right and in better spirits. Well, most days. Blogging inspires me to read more and open my mind. It allows me to see places and learn about them that I won’t get a chance to visit and see in my lifetime.
I do know one thing. I’ve been inside for far too long and I’m getting out this week and will have a ton of new shooting to share.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The daily prompt asks – Are there any activities or hobbies that you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time?
When younger I had a stamp and coin collection but gave those up many decades ago. My son and I had the hobby of going to the pistol range, but we changed our positions on owning handguns and stopped that activity a few years ago.
I used to ride a motorcycle for a few decades and I miss that activity. I used to play a lot of games and chess when I was younger. I haven’t played games in many years.
My friends and I shot a lot of skeet when younger. We just went to a skeet range a year ago and it was a blast and I think a few of us might do that each year now. It’s something we took a 45-year break from.
Unfortunately, I lost interest in playing basketball. I’m looking forward to rediscover that love again. I lost interest in the arts when I was working so hard in my career but luckily, I’ve rediscovered my love for them and actively pursuing many of them again now.
Having activities and hobbies is a good way to feel alive and stay healthy. Pick up a few more things and feel even better.
Go ahead, set the bar high for yourself. That way you’re doing it for yourself and not someone else. And by choosing what you set the bar for, success is more likely.
Doing a bit of a reset myself. I’ve been frozen like this weather in my progress. This coming week that all changes.
Random Thoughts of the Day
With the feels like temp at -18 degrees when I started this post, I think this might not be the season yet for this guy. But I’m dreaming of warmer weather soon. I have to think of warmer weather with that cold wind whipping outside.
Thankfully we have been able to stay under power today. The lights flickered once or twice but that was it. I do see lots of branches and sticks that will need picking up once the big melt comes along. That won’t be today unfortunately or anytime soon unfortunately.
My friends have been talking about spending more time in a warmer climate. Easier said than done for some of us. I don’t have the money for a second home or to live in another spot for a few months out of the year. And that is okay because I’m not sure I’d want to own a home in Florida for instance.
Insurance for storms, upkeep, renting it when not in use are all headaches I don’t need. Plus, I’m not a big fan of flying and that is too long of a drive to do on any regular basis.
We have settled on a few trips here and there. But till then, we endure.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Yesterday I saw a note about an old high school classmate who passed. It was kind of surprising because I saw her for the first time since high school at our 50th reunion. She looked healthy and was even on the walk the day after the reunion.
I got a chance to talk a little bit with her at the reunion. After the walk around the lake the next morning everyone was going over to Whole Foods for a snack before splitting up again. I ran over to my car and got two pictures I had found in my old HS yearbook. One was her and one was for another old friend who grew up the street from me.
The shot of Helen was from when I did yearbook photography, and it was of her with the homecoming court because she was the Homecoming Queen. She was in her cheerleader uniform because it was halftime at a football game where they were announcing the homecoming court for our senior year.
When I caught up, she was still walking up outside, and I gave her the shot. It was black and white and only 5×7, but she looked deeply at it for a bit, slowing her walk substantially. 50 years ago, is a lot to look back at yourself. She looked up and smiled and said thank you and started to hand it back to me, but I said it was hers. She slowly slid it into her purse, and we joined a number of friends in the food court for lunch.
We talked a little there and went our own ways. I wonder if she was sick then and not sharing it with anyone. She looked good so I didn’t suspect a thing. But a lot of us have been through some trials and face things while looking completely or almost normal. But for some reason her death less than 3 months after seeing and sharing with her startled me a bit.
I’m glad I was able to catch up with her, hopefully the picture gave her a few more smiles. I just downloaded the group shot that was taken at the end of the reunion. I looked at her face and many others. I saw people that day that were very at ease with each other. None of that teenage awkwardness. People introducing spouses, discussing careers and retirement, catching up and sharing names and events with laugher. Hugs and handshakes, goodbye again not thinking we won’t be here tomorrow.
Seems like yesterday we entered high school and then graduated. Seems like yesterday that I retired, went to my high school reunion and remembered.
So thankful for the reminder of how precious each day is and hoping to make the best of it today and tomorrow if I’m granted such a gift. Rest easy Helen.
The daily writing prompt asks – Do you need a break? From what?
The easy answer is yes, I need a break and it’s from the weather. The feels like temp is 4 degrees and that is probably the warmest it’s going to be today. The 24-mph wind right now is expected to double which is going to make exposed skin dangerous. I really need a break from the wind over the next 12 hours so the power will stay on.
I also need a break from politics but taking one is dangerous because things move very fast right now.
I need to take a break from TV. I need to take a break from eating sweets. I need to take a break from negative people. I need to take a break from the routine. I need to take a break from being inside (when it warms up) and be outside with nature. I need to take a break from reading online and pick up a book more.
I’m enjoying participating in the weekly Thursday Doors challenge created by Dan Antion for those who love entrances, exits and the buildings and art that surrounds them. The wonderful contributions from everywhere will delight. Share your own link in the comments on Dan’s weekly Door’s page.
These were shot around the town of Ellicott City Maryland. The same place last week’s images were taken but from a different year.
Looks like a house built with a prank door.
I know there is a door around here somewhere!
This establishment moved up the street a few years ago and is still thriving in a larger spot.
Our County Welcome Center. Greetings
This is a sad one. Closed after 50 years of fine dining in December. Tersiguel’s
A Place to Hang your Hat – One Fresh Hat
Doors No More?
I worked at The Washington Post for 26 years. The former Miracle on 15th Street. Yesterday’s news of layoffs by the hundreds of people hurt to hear. I saw people I knew on LinkedIn yesterday saying they were some of the affected and putting their names and skills out there for new jobs. And what a time and industry to be looking for work.
In my opinion, Jeff Bezos had some guts in the beginning but then lost his nerve and bent the knee to Trump. And in its wake is the remnants of a once proud institution. And if it continues on its present course will soon be a complete non-factor. Wonder what happened to that golden touch.
But then again, he didn’t lose his golden touch, he’s continued to get much, much richer. The Post is just a pawn to keep those other ventures thriving. It’s a sacrificial lamb. He knows nothing about the business or integrity or truth. The Washington Post is like a nickel and penny and some lint in his pocket.
It is my opinion that he missed a very important and special opportunity to change history. He could have led the change. But no, he chose to follow the path he’s always taken. Chase that $$$. Hey, nobody is perfect. It would have taken a lot of courage to tell the narcissist with dementia to shove it and then compete with his lies. But of all the people on earth in a position and opportunity to do that, you didn’t.
Hey, I understand, new wife. You can push off on one of I guess many ocean-going vessels or planes and leave this country anytime you want. It’s an easy call not to want to deal with the crazies in this country. Why put yourself in danger of the extremist that would take your challenge like general on the other side leading the charge against them.
But even with all that said, maybe if you didn’t back the movie Melania, you could have saved these layoffs. If you have no future intentions to let the Post regain its integrity, mission and place in the industry, please consider selling to someone who is.
I just hoped if I were in your shoes I would have made a different choice.
To those losing their jobs. My heart goes out to you and your families. I wish you much luck and success in your future.
The daily prompt is asking me to – Describe your most ideal day from beginning to end. I did a post on this question 2 years ago called Ideal Day, that is still pretty much my fantasy ideal day. But I’ll update it with the below.
My ideal day is today. It’s just beginning and I have no idea what is in store for me. I try to make each day the ideal day. I’ve had that mindset for a little while now. I don’t go into every day like that, but I do usually come around and make part of the day ideal.
My ideal day includes seeing my children. But if I can’t I still think about them and look at pictures of them and write them. And while it’s not like seeing them it still makes the day ideal for me because we are sharing.
My ideal day starts with being able to wake up and get upright. If I got those two things, I got the day by the horns.
Sometimes there is no end to my ideal day. For instance, yesterday ran into this morning which made yesterday great.
When you can appreciate a day, you have had an ideal day.
If you’ve felt loved, it’s been an ideal day.
If your stomach didn’t ache with hunger, it’s been an ideal day.
If you were able to help someone it’s been an ideal day.
I could go on and on about all the wonderful things that make an ideal day. I remember once having the most brutal day when nothing was going right. I got out of my car after a brutal drive home from work. The sun had risen an hour earlier. My neighbor’s garden that is on the edge of our yard was loaded with butterflies. I went over and stood there just watching and actually got one to crawl on my finger. It wasn’t the ideal day at all. But the last couple minutes by that garden allowed me to get a good night’s rest.
I hope you all have an ideal day today.
Some views I always return to. This former lighthouse was a place we have stayed a few times before. Like everything the price has gone up a bit, and it’s been a while since we have been back. When it’s just the two of us, I’ll always check the rates before heading down. The view from the bayfront rooms is great.
It’s one of the few places in town where you feel you have some space and it’s still a quick walk to the beach.
The Route 90 bridge behind it has a beautiful sunset over it and then the lights of the cars coming into town flicker between the railings. A quick walk over a foot bridge to Fager’s Island for some fine or casual dining. Then out to the gazebo out on the water after a great meal to feel the warm summer breeze.
Many enjoy the bands and dancing that goes till closing. Of course, this can get a bit crowded during the peak of the season. Which is great because the whole place is one big party.
If I can just hold on for another month or two and escape winter, I’ll be okay.
Good morning from Maryland. I like our state flag. When I come across a shot I’ve taken with one, I’ll find a way to work post it here and there. I love living here. So much of it is positive. I think I also lived here at the perfect time. When it changed from rural to suburbs and city.
I’m loading up one of the Ocean City webcams to catch the morning sunrise over the Atlantic. I’ve been up for a bit, editing and writing. I make a lot of progress early in the mornings. Less distractions, errands, tasks, chores and appointments.
Went to another funeral service yesterday with my better half. Wishing it was the old days when we went to weddings back-to-back weeks instead of funerals.
But today is filled with opportunities to be had. I’ll start the day with improving my personal appearance with a much-needed haircut. I’m going to load the photo bag up and maybe do an hour or two of shooting around our area. Still pretty cold to be out long stretches, for me at least.
My better half has been prepping the house for a visit from a family member. I’ll share a picture of her tomorrow evening. She is certainly the neediest member of the entire family but also easy to love.
It’s funny some days I realize how limited I’ve looked at life for long periods of time in my life. Glad I removed a lot of those obstacles.
Isn’t it great when the waves of life are in sync with your step.
Choosing what to focus on today. I was thinking of doing some painting. Yesterday I downloaded and edited a ton of studio shots I did last week and uploaded some family images. Also, a few blog posts, some housekeeping and emails. Then I worked on a few illustrations.
Making choices each day is harder than I thought in retirement. I guess that is a biproduct of having a lot of interest. But am I losing focus on the one important thing? I never know really with the exception when I make the call to spend time with family and friends.
People and relationships are always the most important. If they are the right ones.
Even though I wonder recently, should I use a little of that family/friend time to work on a few of my projects more. It actually just worked out that way for a while when I was sick and some friends were out of town for a bit. It was an unusual gap in time which turned out to be productive in other ways.
Right now, it’s time for a little face maintenance or as some would say, trimming the beard. Which reminds me I like the few videos I’ve seen of young fathers shaving their beards and then surprising their young kids with the new face. It’s funny how strongly the young ones associate the facial hair with their father and when it’s gone how upset they get. I’m tempted to do it to one of my grandchildren, but I like my beard too much.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I like how pictures I take sometimes inspire me to post. I saw this street sign and biker combo and thought of myself. I walk now, but I used to ride. And did I enjoy that. I learned on an 82 Suzuki GS 250 Twin if memory serves me right. Might have been a 450 but I think it was just the 250cc.
Graduated to a larger 1100cc 85 Honda Shadow after that. I wasn’t a daily rider except for short stretches of time. Things have gotten more dangerous around here since I road. Lots more traffic volume and of course lots more people taking chances. If I road now it would be with a group. Most drivers aren’t stupid enough to piss off several bikers, old or not.
I read where sales of new motorcycles have been declining. And the average age of the rider has gotten much older so when these guys stop the numbers will be even worse. An article said the average age of the rider today is 47 and when I got my big bike in 1985 the average was 27 years old. To me that tells me young people are not buying bikes and as these older riders go will a younger generation emerge or will the art be limited to a few.
Then again, the way some states maintain roads you may need a motorcycle to get around in the future.
Looks like it listens to commands. But it won’t be out and about in these weather or conditions in the mid-Atlantic.
Our monthly Miata Club meeting yesterday was postponed due to weather. I thought I had missed it because I had a chance to have a meal with my daughter and that is a much higher priority, even if it was a nice summer day.
With it being windy and very cold, like single digits or less, depending on the strength of the wind someone made a wise call. But we have some diehards in the group apparently because they are going to shoot for this coming Sunday and the long-term forecast for that day says a high of 22 degrees and a low of 8. I’ll get back onboard next month.
These winter months are hard on car guys. No shows, no cruising, no washing and waxing and detailing, no top down. AHHHH it’s killing me. I need a garage so I can at least sit in comfort.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Another water picture to indicate how my weekend is going. That’s because life is flowing smoothly. That calm stream is like my thoughts on this fine day. Ah the first day of February also. Not that dates mean much anymore except for appointments.
I saw my son and his family yesterday and I saw my daughter today. Maybe that is why my spirits are so high. Opportunity to do something special this evening is strong.
Then again so is the throbbing pain in my right foot where I have a severely discolored toe due to ramming it into a piece of ice outside earlier. So, a doctor’s visit might be on the schedule tomorrow in addition to a haircut.
Being that the treadmill is off the table I’m going to pick up some weights tonight.
Random Thoughts of the Day