Changing my approach to change. I’m trying to combat the forces of age and nature that resist change with advancing years.
Changing speeds in my motivation is a beginning that will help with everything else. I’m already feeling and seeing the difference in productivity and results.
Chrome and Color. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m trying to make a big change in terms of letting some things go. Some old family items, at least a third of the stuff in my workroom, some materials I’ve been saving for who knows what project.
I’m trying to change the focus here to more of my original intent with a photography focus but here I am contributing more grey matter.
Some changes are in relationships. The ones that require me to be the giver most of the time, become less attractive.
Some are changes in interest. This one has been happening for a while now. Since my retirement I have had less in common with a lot of people because I’ve dropped what I was doing professionally almost entirely. My hobbies now don’t register with most I’ve known for a while, with a rare exception here and there.
Many changes are out of my control, but they could have big effects on me. Things like friends moving away or passing. Of course, I’ve been touched by people close to me passing as we all have. But most all my best and longest-term friends have always lived close by. That will be tough as those things change.
In some cases, I might be forced to accept change and that is probably the most difficult. I’ve been lucky enough to maintain my own home and property for many decades here. But those days are numbered. I still enjoy it and can do most of it, but the heavy stuff is taking a toll. And there are parts of this yard it’s very easy to fall on which I’ve done many times.
Well, it’s late and time to change into exercise man, watch a little of the Ravens game before returning to work here for a late-night post. Don’t worry, I’ll change it up so it won’t be a serious post.
The second wind has arrived, and I’ve got the sails up and running with it. Maybe it’s that full moon out there tonight. or the glow I have from the time with the family today. Whatever it is, I’m in a positive frame of mind and have some time to tinker with my crafts.
Sunset in Ocean City. Photo by Mike Hartley
Some more time on the treadmill for the body and mind. About to put the printer to work and finish the holiday family prints for the kids and my wall.
Also feeling inspired to sit at the easel for a bit and let the brush flow. I’m turning nocturnal again. Well, I might as well go with the flow.
We went to Kenilworth Mall to meet the family today and look at the train garden.
I love watching the kid’s reactions to trains and the villages created.
There were a few fathers who seemed to take a keen interest in the sights as well.
A way to see the circus in the middle of winter.
Nice work to the people who set this one up.
Oh, if you’re hungry may I recommend Italian Gardens Restaurant. Very good pizza, flatbreads and salads and wonderful service.
It’s so funny to watch the kids get lost in looking at the displays and then realize mom or dad isn’t next to them and the panic in their face till they see you. Well in this case seeing Papa made him happy.
A rather populated set of windowpanes. Reminds me of me. I love looking out of our windows at home. We aren’t at the top of the hill but near it, (elevation wise) so the view is nice for both sunrises and sunsets. Oh, there are lots of trees in the way, but this time of year it’s easy to see through them.
Window from St Michaels MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
When we moved here there was nothing but woods behind us. Now during the winter, you can see faint lines of 2 homes in the distance and one home in a court off to our right. But I’m not looking for that anyway. I love watching wildlife. And there is a nice variety in the area to view if you’re patient.
So many colorful winged friends. And others so well camouflaged you have to have experience in spotting them. Sometimes I’ll look out the window and see a deer sleeping, then another and another and yet another. And I’m probably not seeing 2-3 more.
Most of the time I’m looking out and up. That is till you see a snake and then you gaze down a lot more for a few weeks. That isn’t a concern this time of year though.
There are homes with better views. But I’m very good with mine.
We opened the blog shop early today (couldn’t sleep) but then we closed for a morning doctor’s appointment and a visit to long time neighbors who are moving away next week.
To the left of this monitor is a picture of our son and daughter and their 2 daughters and son. It’s at the bus stop for elementary school. I had them all face me shoulder to shoulder straight faced and then had them turn to the side and look over their shoulder at me and smirk. It looks like a lineup.
Where have the last 3 decades gone? We are so lucky they are all healthy and doing okay.
The neighborhood is starting to have some turnover. I saw that happen to my parent’s neighborhood and now it’s happening to ours. That’s life, constant change.
Open so often, no sense changing the sign. Photo by Mike Hartley
After a quick refueling (lunch) the shop is open again and the printer has just fired up to complete the Christmas day prints of the family celebration. Then upload some new images to the photo site and spend a little time organizing there.
I was beginning to fade this morning when an Imminent Threat Alert from the National Weather Service came at 4:29am and the phone made an unfamiliar sound so of course it got my attention. Well, I got up and saw what this snow squall line is about.
If you were driving, I could see it being a white out condition. The winds were certainly very impressive, but the snow wasn’t heavy enough for a total white out except for brief periods. It did coat the roads and I’m sure that it was slippery.
The snow left as quickly as it came. Leaving a dusting that was mostly gone by the time I got back up later this morning. I’ve had it with the below average temps and strong winds though.
Lost power for a few minutes, from those winds. Being outside for a bit yesterday, I thought a warmer image was the way to go today given the temps felt like the single digits with the winds.
This shot made me put on the song Lola from The Kinks. Annapolis Maryland. Photo by Mike Hartley.
Only 14 hours before we start a new year. Might as well put them to good use. Mixing some exercise and music for a bit, then back to work on the computer. I’ve got at least 50 shots to edit this morning and some to print.
I’m finishing a book I got from Xmas I started yesterday. Reading more is something I failed on in 2025 but I’m taking strides to fix that in 26.
The camera also came out of the case and did that feel nice in my hands again. I’ll have to download those and begin those edits. And see what else I can visualize today.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Made some summer plans with the family yesterday. Can’t wait for that weather to return.
Today is one of those warming your car up before you go anywhere days.
Apparently, there is a finite number of lies that can be told, when people stop believing them.
I drove for over 4 decades without seat warmers. Makes me think to myself how I ever did that.
Tonight, will mark the last evening of work at my old career, 2 years ago. Two full years of retirement seems to have gone by quickly.
My last night was supposed to be December 31st, but they weren’t going to pay me beyond midnight, so the boss gave us New Years Eve off. A parting gift, I guess.
As this Tuesday fades into the evening. I think back on when 6pm hit and I started my overnight shift. Something I won’t return to or recommend to others to pursue unless it meets your needs. And if it does, don’t do it for long, it’s rough on every part of life.
I’m not falling into that trap of being hard on myself for all that I didn’t accomplish this year. I’m pretty happy with what we did fit in given the hectic nature of the past 12 months.
Yes, I continue to sail in these uncharted waters of the blogsphere. It’s a community I find fun in and much more civil than other platforms. It’s a challenge and one I hope to devote a bit more time to this year.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The only time I like wind is when I need a cool breeze off the water in the middle of summer while on the beach.
There is a limit on patience. Most know when that is reached.
A shower is sometimes the most relaxing part of the day.
Putting up holiday lights is a lot more fun than taking them down.
I get the same expression as this couple below quite often now. Either something someone says, or does, or acts in an inappropriate way. Things that used to stand out as exceptions are more commonplace and almost dismissed as normal.
Along Baltimore’s Inner Harbor waterfront.
There are far more good actions taking place each day of course. At least I’m hoping more of us see the good deeds being carried out, big or small. From common courtesy, to acts of compassion, or the jobs that EMS, Police, Fire and Nursing do every moment.
I’ve always enjoyed people watching. I haven’t done that much street photography. I don’t take shots to make people look bad. I don’t think anyone looks bad because we are all unique and I was taught not to judge size, shape, color, language, nationality, handicap or disability. My mom taught me to respect everyone.
I think I’ll try to look for more smiles this coming year. That might be a big ask given the climate but hey, I like a challenge.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It felt good to accomplish several things yesterday but also have a restful day.
When my granddaughter stops in my office to look at the hundreds of photos on the walls and she starts to pick out people or ask who someone is, my heart warms.
We have always made good use of vehicles. Our current fleet has 14, 10 and 8 years of age on them. Oh, I guess you could add my mower to the mix, its got 4 wheels. I think that one is 27 years old.
I downloaded the shooting from Christmas day of the kids and grandkids unwrapping some gifts and around the house. But I found two images in the beginning of the batch that I didn’t remember even taking. Shot on 12/14 which was about 10 days into my flu battle. That was about half-way through the total fight.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I must have opened the back door, looked out and took these shots of the sky, trees and part of my small shed and looked the other way towards the neighbors behind us.
That was the only activity that camera got in 20 days and having no memory of doing it is strange. I know my better half couldn’t have because she doesn’t know how to turn it on.
Photo by Mike Hartley
But the camera and I are back in action. Partners in crime and all that nonsense. I think I’ll head out this evening or tomorrow night or both and collect some holiday lights in the county we live.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I like Christmas leftovers better than Thanksgiving leftovers.
Young grandchildren are the best. That is all I know so far that opinion may change.
I reached out to some people who were once close but had gotten very distant. They have chosen to stay distant and that’s both fine with me and sad for them.
Being in my senior years I have a lot of past Christmases to look back on. From the days in a small apartment with mom, dad and my sister. Too muted Xmas celebrations after my father passed. Then celebrating with my better half and our families together or at each home during the holidays.
Remembering those past celebrations with both a smile and a few tears. Photo by Mike Hartley
And as parents transitioned from their homes, ours became the focal point for family gatherings. Both our parents have been gone a while now even though at this time of the year always seems closer than it was.
Holiday are times of highs and lows for me. Not much middle ground. Our children and grandchildren provide much of the joy. But those times alone and even when together I get pains of those who were so loved but missing now.
Sometimes I smile when thinking of Christmas’s past. Sometimes it brings tears to my eyes. I guess those strong memories will never fade and always be part of the celebration and sadness.
So many struggle with the perfect gift. So many are under the pressures of travel and stresses associated with that. Then there are the struggles of family who aren’t on the same page. We have a few family members who have removed themselves from everyone. My own sister being one of them. I kind of feel sad for them but that was their choice and the only thing I can do is control how I feel and not worry about their decision-making process.
It’s hard to remember some Christmas seasons after a significant loss. I’m sure my son and his family will have mixed feelings, this one being the first without their beloved pet. She was such a part of celebrations because I’ve never seen an animal unwrap gifts like a human before. So gentle to just remove the paper.
I’ll be spending a lot of time checking in with friends and extended family the next few days trying to spread some joy and cheer.
We used to get downtown Baltimore quite a bit but haven’t in a long time other than doctor’s appointments. And those aren’t fun. So, when the weather warms I think we will give it another go. Maybe an O’s game at Orioles Park. A beautiful and fun venue for Major League Baseball.
This is an old shot I just found in a reject file. Sometimes I judge harshly. Barnes and Noble downtown closed years ago. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve been to the Maryland Zoo which is in Baltimore several times in recent years. But a visit to the National Aquarium is a few decades overdue. The last time was when my children were young.
National Aquarium. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve got to say it was quite disappointing to see the Ravens go down tonight against New England. But injuries, mistakes and missed opportunities look to put the playoffs out of reach.
There are 3 museums I’d like to visit this year in Baltimore. The Walters Art Museum, The Baltimore Museum of Art and The American Visionary Art Museum.
There is no shortage of great places to eat and that is also one of my favorite pastimes. Which makes me think of a midnight snack and I’ve got 9 minutes to prepare it so till tomorrow.
Found an old photo I guess my mom snapped of me looking into a huge mixing bowl or the washing machine.
Ah to be young again. I still feel young in mind. At least when I push all the bullcrap going on in this country and people around the world to the side for a few moments of mental health.
With snow in the forecast Sunday, I think back to the day when I was just a little older than above and in our first home. I lay in the middle of our backyard making snow angles at night. The quiet and beautiful sky above is still clear in my mind.
Go Navy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Another memory from my early youth is one of my parents being so excited about the Army-Navy game. This takes place this Saturday and I’ll be pulling for my parent’s team GO NAVY. There is a huge chest with pictures, and I remember some of them from being at the Army Navy game when it was played in Philadelphia in the 1950s if my memory is correct.
I mentioned last week that we attended the Polar Ice Express at the National Harbor. Sorry for the delay but the flu had me down for a week. Thought I’d share a few images of the ice sculptures displayed and surrounding area.
We stayed across from the Gaylord Hotel and saved a few hundred $$.
Salute to Service Members.
Show at the atrium level of the Gaylord Hotel.
Tree at National Harbor at night.
More from the show that night.
Entrance lobby to the Gaylord Hotel.
Beginning of the Polar Ice Show.
I can’t wait to take the grandchildren next year.
The Polar Express.
I’d love to watch these creations being made.
The colors they used in the ice were wonderful.
They told us it was 7 degrees on the tour. They give you parkas to wear over your coats.
Next year I’m going to try some different types of shots instead of just the displays.
I guess this is my first post with a holiday theme. More to come.
In coming up with a title for this post, I first put Nice Break. While that was very true of the last two days from our normal routine, the title Lucky Break was more applicable.
My better half and I took a trip to the National Harbor in Maryland to see the Polar Express Ice show at the Gaylord Hotel. Along with all the holiday decorations and Xmas show in the atrium.
We stayed across the street at the Residence Inn by Marriottand being we had some points built up we used those to the room was very reasonable. It was a great time. A dinner at McCormick and Schmicks. A long night’s rest and then a good breakfast followed by a walk by the water.
It got a little chilly, so we headed to the MGM hotel and casino on the way out to gamble a few dollars and have lunch in the food court.
We went through the casino, out the lobby where all the Xmas decorations are set up and then walked the aisle with shops and the food court. It was about 11:40 am and noticed that some didn’t open till noon or 2pm so we wandered back to the casino, gambled for about 20 minutes and came out to go eat and saw police running through the lobby and heard people talking about gunfire and they had sealed off access to that area of shops and restaurants.
The shooting occurred just before noon. News reports noted that they locked down local schools. But what really dawned on me is that if this had happened any other building, the place would have been locked down and security would have at least sealed that floor. Especially a public building like that.
But nope, the money-making machine must continue to operate 24/7/365. I bet people in the casino never knew what happened till they got home, for those smart enough to leave a casino. I guess they have discussed those situations with police because it was MGM staff blocking the hallway entrance to the area, not police or tape even. I could have walked right past this slightly built woman if I had intention to.
The “nothing is wrong, nothing to be seen, we don’t have details” is pure planning at work. Police coming through with guns past patrons going in and out of the casino was a bit unreal knowing someone had been killed with a gun a few hundred feet away. That seems wrong to me.
But unlike Kevin Bacon in the movie Animal House where he keeps saying “All is well” before he’s trampled in a stampede of people, we have business as normal at MGM at National Harbor.
From the WTOP article on this incident I see the following from the police chief of PG County – “MGM is safe,” Nader said. “The harbor is safe.” Well maybe the building didn’t get any bullet holes, but something sure did and that isn’t safe.
It’s something that everyone should realize. We aren’t safe anywhere. That must be one of the richest and exclusive areas around. I saw so much law in the Harbor area that if you blinked you saw another one. And I saw a ton of people with SECURITY written on their shirts, vest and jackets at MGM
I’m thinking we might have been back in that area of shooting if I didn’t get lucky and win $60 at a slot machine just before we went to get food. Looking back, it seems a bit surreal that life just went on as normal there, even though someone lost their life. My condolences to the family of another victim of gun violence.
Well, the lobby was pretty. Before the police running through it, with guns out.
Shot this about 40 minutes before the lobby became full of police running through. Photo by Mike Hartley
There is a smile behind that morning greeting. Feeling better than earlier and ready to work on hobbies. Was doing some editing/housekeeping and found an old image I hadn’t used before. This one of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, one of my favorite bridges, but also intimidating.
An engineering marvel. Photo by Mike Hartley
Usually, I don’t get much sticking that old digital camera out the window. But occasionally an accident happens like above.
I don’t dare do that now. With age came discomfort crossing it. So somewhere in the last decade I began losing some of my nerve, I guess.
Oh, I still cross it without issue, it’s just that I’m much more conscious of it now in terms of it being more of a tense ride than in my youth. I’ve ridden across it in storms, (hail dented the car once at the top of the bridge), in winds, in the dark, in fog, at sunrise and sunset. On beautiful days watching ships go up and down the bay.
I’ve just lost that total inhibition I guess and now watching out for idiots around me instead of taking a peek at the wonderful views. I’ve also been getting a little more uncomfortable with heights than I used to be.
One of the things I was kind of interested in doing for years was the Bay Bridge Walk/Run. I always thought I could do that. Now I’m like that wouldn’t be comfortable. As a photographer I should suck it up and do it but it’s going to have to be really good weather.
This year was cancelled and there is no date for next year on the website yet. Wish it was done in warmer weather.
I found a shoot from Baltimore from a decade ago in August of 2015. I passed over several acceptable images that I hadn’t used before and thought I’d share today.
The National Katyn Memorial at the circle of President Street, Aliceanna Street and International Drive in Baltimore Maryland.
Pier 6 Pavilion and Baltimore skyline in background.
The Inner Harbor area. About to be redeveloped again.
Old and New.
Great ships, big and small, modern and old travel our waterways.
Steel from the Twin Towers.
All shapes and sizes in town.
Submarine, Tug and Sail. With the National Aquarium in the background.
Given the warm temps some bikes are out today but you won’t see any leaves on the trees like this. Winter is here and there are rumors of snow in early December.
Some days I miss my bike. I miss the experience. But better to leave it alone now than chance it. No offense to those who ride. I’m looking out for you. Can’t speak for the rest of them.
My better half said the roads are nuts. I don’t plan on being out much at all this weekend. For those of you braving the highways, take your time and be safe.
Random Thoughts of the Day
If I pretended, I was under more pressure I might get more done. But why pretend.
A constant dilemma, read more or write more. Shoot more, edit more.
Looks like it’s time to break out the heavy winter coat after today.
There are a few things I’d like to get framed. Haven’t done any of my work in frames in many years except as gifts. Time to change that.
Drop the flag, we are off to the races. I’m feeling good about yesterday’s progress and excited about the possibilities of today.
A rather patriotic checkered flag. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m watching a beautiful sunrise over the Atlantic this morning, from afar unfortunately. Do you ever wonder how many more you will see?
It’s going to be nice for a late November day here so I’m going to fire up the grill later and put some chicken on it. I’m excited about that because I haven’t grilled out in a while. Being it will be around dark I’ll get the firepit going for a few hours before the late football game.
But first I’m looking forward to getting out and catching some rays from the sun with the top down on the car. And hopefully grabbing a few new images while out and about.
I’m guessing a good number of you might be traveling this coming holiday. Be it by car, plane or a walk across the street, have a safe and wonderful trip. I know some of you are getting an early start.
This drop top has more room than mine. Photo by Mike Hartley
We haven’t been big travelers in the past but hope to do some now that the time is available. I’m not sure why but I love the idea of taking trains to places in this country. I’ve had very few train rides in my life, but all have been great. A few trips north to Philly, NYC and Rochester are all I can remember.
We’re going to do a few local things before the end of the year that are just short drives but next year we might be rolling more.
I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable flying, but I’ll do it because it’s the only way to get to some places the better half would like to visit. So, to the air we will take.
Tomorrow I’m keeping my feet on the ground with a joy ride because it might be the last sunny day that isn’t too cold before the long winter sets in.
A wet and dreary morning in central Maryland. It wasn’t bothering this guy below grazing in my back yard. The sun did break out at noon to brighten my spirits.
Seen a lot more bucks roaming my area lately. Photo by Mike Hartley
Spent the morning doing security updates due to a data breach at my old company, thank you very much for another parting gift. A company that keeps on giving, our information away.
All I know is that when we had a good number of database engineers all assigned to their systems and infrastructure teams above that made data, hardware, operating systems, networks and backups all secure, when I worked there. I think the applicable phrase is “Not on our watch.”
Secure it. Photo by Mike Hartley
I was disappointed by my new Dell laptop this morning. The first bios update it gets and it’s frozen. I retired from working with computer a while back and I don’t want to spend my time working on them now. Previous models have been very solid.
I’m tired of technology letting me down. It’s been that way from the start. The damn IBM 8086 and 8088. The crappy Mac Plus and Mac II. And everything in between, to today’s suspect engineering. Yeah, I’m old and probably don’t give credit to the level of today’s technology but I see and hear the same number of people complaining. Not to mention increasing threats from hackers, frauds, scams, thefts and other nefarious threats.
After getting Dell Support, I’m back in business with the laptop. Their engineer was pretty good, and it wasn’t a huge time drain getting it operational again. Being out of the IT game for a while I’m smart enough to seek help when I don’t know.
I’ve got to look at some external online attached storage for next year. I also realized my best camera is 13 years old. At the least it needs a good cleaning. The new equipment is so expensive. Then again, it’s not the equipment pointing the camera.
Time to get outside and get some new images, the camera is fully charged, and I will be soon.
Beach or mountains? Which do I prefer and why? – An interesting thought for a weekend morning. Living in the state of Maryland, I have mountains 3 hours to the west and beaches 3 hours to the east. I love the beach because I love warm weather, sand and water.
Mountains are nice and very beautiful also. But if you have followed this blog for any time, you can see I’m at the beach far more than mountains.
So why do I live in Central Maryland, I asked myself. Pretty simple I guess, I grew up here and liked it. Went to school here, worked here, met my wife here, raised a family here.
But the beach is my love. I usually watch the sunrise over the Atlantic if I’m there or not. Family vacations or just us as a couple enjoy it year-round. Well, we don’t go in January or February, but we have been just about every other month. I think we might even add December to the list this year and go see the lights at the beach and walk the empty boardwalk and maybe even take our shoes off and get in the sand.
The beach has some of my best memories of my life.
Give me the Sun and Sand please. Photo by Mike Hartley
Just a few trees on a hill or leaning over a stream. I didn’t capture much fall color this year. I’ll have to make up for that and get more winter scenes.
This above is by Ellicott City near the old Courthouse.
Along Old Court Road. I have no idea how they cut this hill, but I might just have to hang out next summer to do a video of it.
The streams are carrying away the last of the season’s color.
There is a show called Way Too Early, and it comes on at 5am. I wasn’t referring to that. My way too early started at 1am. Good in some ways, bad in others.
I did spend some time getting things organized and doing some housecleaning on the computer. But those are boring tasks.
So, I decided to look for something more interesting like the folks below.
Columbia MD.Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s a bit cool for my taste and it rained all night so the motivation to go outside isn’t there.
Think I’ll paint. And see what takes shape.
Columbia MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
The day is young, I’m not. So make way, we’re moving out.
There are RULES. Review them before proceeding. Just make sure they are yours and not others.
I like lyrics that make you think.
I don’t know if the holidays are less pressure packed because of my age or because I look at them differently than I used to.
When you make the best use of the day or close to it, it’s a damn good feeling. I had that feeling about Monday, so I kept it going today.
First a little dirty work in the shed removing the mower battery, draining fuel. Getting the cover on the car before the rain and some leaf blower time followed that. Picked up a ton of sticks from the few days of high winds.
Going with the current. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s back to the easel and that good book I started tonight. A few more posts with some new images and uploading some recent shooting to the photo site.
I haven’t devoted this much time to my hobbies in a while. Or spent time with a book.
Even though we’re a long way from spring, things are blooming for me this week.
I’m going to have to search hard for color this winter season. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
The rule for the night. If I watch sports, it will be from the treadmill.
Disconnecting the battery is a piece of cake. Lifting it out hurt. Maybe I should hook myself to the charger.
Each quarter the remaining family members in the area gather for lunch and dessert at one of our homes. We rotate selecting the restaurant.
My brother in-law Tom chose Kecco’s Woodfire Kitchen on Westminster Pike just off 795 exit 9a. And what a pick he made. They live near here and had tried it after appointments in the area.
I had the Calamari Fritti which was very good, perfectly cooked and a nice marinara sauce. But the part that totally impressed me was the Carnosa Woodfire pizza. It has topping with pepperoni, meatball, bacon and sausage which were all great. The cheese and sauce combination was perfect.
This was one of the best pie’s I’ve had in a great while. I wish it was closer.
I see the great snow debates have started already. How much, what date is the first snow, will it snow on Christmas, will it be colder than normal. I’m preparing for both. If it’s nice I’ll put the top down on the convertible in the middle of winter. If not, it will stay covered a good bit.
If memory serves me correctly this is off Centennial Lane. Photo by Mike Hartley
I do know that I have to test fire the generator. The shovels are out of the shed and in the basement. We have about half a cord of wood. Thinking of ordering more. We don’t burn much but in an emergency it’s nice to have available.
Winter and I do not get along. Cold is my kryptonite. The last couple days I’ve been adjusting to the trees being bare again. Soon the colorful leaves on the ground will turn brown and be absorbed by the ground.
Frosts will start, frozen mist, sleet, snow and then slush and refreeze and slush. More cold with some even colder wind mixed in. It’s all got me thinking about a song from my youth by a group called The Animals. And the song was “We Gotta Get Out of This Place.”
I will have to fight the overwhelming urge to hibernate all season. It takes my entire willpower to venture outside in winter. The only time that isn’t true is after a snow. Usually, I’m the first one out and done shoveling. I’m going to have to get a snowblower soon. This old back doesn’t react to shovels too well anymore, but it seems to pull through each season.
The season does have its beauty. It’s so crisp and clean and sometimes so quiet like after a snow. Sitting around a roaring fire in the cold is special.
Having to warm up a frozen car isn’t special. Having to dress in layers isn’t special. Having huge utility bills isn’t special. Having to walk from point A to point B while dressed as the Michelin Man isn’t special.
I’m sorry, I promised a friend I was going to be less winter hostile this year. But the cooler summer and then cold fall has tested my patience already. And if we get a lot of snow this year I’ll be making up for lost time with additional rants about cold on a daily basis.
But till then I’ll cool my jets about the pending onslaught of winter.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I paint, to brush off other things.
If tariffs were so good, why is he rolling them back on some food?
Never make light of any progress. It’s hard enough as it is, for some.
That bright sun from the window feels good on my back.
What is your favorite place to go in your city? A difficult ask by the daily writing prompt because I live in a small town not a city.
But we do have a city nearby. A very old mill town called Ellicott City. It’s a city I’m connected to in many ways. My better half’s family lived there. When we got married our first apartment was there. I began my 5 decades in newspapers in that city. Owned a business there.
The place has been through a lot of traumas. Fires, train accidents and floods. It has reinvented itself so many times I’ve lost count. There were two fire stations, but both had moved. There was a lumber and flour mill there. That’s gone. There was a thriving newspaper business that’s long gone. There was a corner market and that is gone.
Mr. Yates behind his counter. Photo by Mike Hartley
The list of what has gone and come and gone and come again is too long for this post but it’s a town always in transition, but it stays the same somehow. Friendly, unique, picturesque, filled with small homes and shops, with restaurants and bars. Farmers markets, movie nights, and many theme occasions. Santa still rides down Main Street as he did decades ago.
Snow at Railroad Museum. Photo by Mike Hartley
They kick off the holiday season with midnight madness and tree lighting. The fire station, now up Old Columbia Pike, has a huge holiday train garden for the kids and adults like me.
Tongue Row EC. Photo by Mike Hartley
Oh, the town has many issues. A historical society that tries to keep it true but also doesn’t know the only constant in life is change. Many town factions and groups all squabble from time to time.
The train bridge crosses the lower end of town by the Patapsco River. Photo by Mike Hartley
Many of the places that made it special for decades are gone or going. Tersiguel’s is closing after 50 years I believe this year. Old Mr. Yates in his market, Fisher’s bakery with the sweetest sweets I’ve ever had has been history for a long time. Coco Lane and Commercial Farmers Bank that I used to walk down the street to cash my first work checks.
Fernand Tersiguel standing outside his establishment. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s different now but loaded with new treasures and shops and restaurants and sights. Flood mitigation efforts should preserve this town from its past devastating floods. But you can never fully protect against Mother Nature of course.
It can get crowded on the weekends.
So, my favorite place is Main Street and the memories I have of it. I walk up and down this hilly place often. It’s great exercise, most everyone has a smile and hello. I look in shop windows, take pictures, maybe grab a snack or drink. It relaxes me and with all the history I have, it feels a bit like home.
I took this shot the day before a flood that wiped out most of the first and some of the second stories of this lower section of town. Photo by Mike Hartley
Someone had a whale of an idea when they created this ride. The chrome front bumper probably weighs more than most cars now.
All aboard. Photo by Mike Hartley
Another busy Sunday. But certainly, some time to create will be worked into various parts of the day. First a series of 220 shots to edit. I’ve picked up the camera for a few indoor shots and hopefully shoot a few more images if we get out and about today.
I put a fresh sheet of watercolor paper on the easel. Going to try something more difficult this time. I’m thinking of a portrait.
Do you ever have those days you hope your children call. This was one of them when I woke up today.
I don’t like the sound of 40-50 mph wind gusts. I know I wouldn’t like tornado speed winds. It reminds me we have a tree that needs to be taken down this winter. That won’t be a cheap job.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Got a new laptop. Starting to adapt to it. Took a few weeks to get used to feel and new OS but its speed over the old one is great. Not that I’m a power user or anything.
My sleep is getting more inconsistent again. Maybe it’s having a flashback.
Do you ever feel like you talk to a lot of people but have nobody to talk to.
I hope the winds don’t take out our power today. It’s a hold onto your hat day till the evening.
Can’t wait for the smells of Thanksgiving.
Big victory for Maryland Men’s hoop team yesterday. And the highly ranked Women’s team plays today.
We haven’t been in a few years and my son mentioned it just the other day. And by chance I came upon some images from a shoot in 2014. I’ve run shots of that before, so I won’t repeat those. I did find two gems that I guess I didn’t like the first edit to share this time.
I can’t be running holiday shots already, can I? Photo by Mike Hartley
So, if you need to get the family out of the house on the coming holiday weekend this might be a nice change for a good cause.
Only 41 days till Christmas. Photo by Mike Hartley
It feels like I do a lot of rescheduling. Yes, that is part of life, always has been. But I get out of balance. I’m not scheduling enough, me time. Well, that sounds like a selfish statement and maybe it is. But I’ve spent a lot of my life prioritizing for others. Don’t get me wrong, I did it very willingly and wouldn’t change a thing.
But now, time for a change is in order. I’m really going to start prioritizing my work and enjoyment.
I started last night with an evening with friends that was a very good time. In between a few chores and errands today I’m doing some photography and painting. One day at a time.
Been in a bit of a funk lately so finding my way out of it.
Guys getting Stoned on the Job
In the town of FredRock (Frederick MD). Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
With the penny no longer being made, will it increase or diminish the collectability of them over time.
It galls me to see Trump step foot in Arlington National Cemetery.
My first doctor’s appointment in a while without an issue. Tuesday was a good day.
It looks like a good evening to get the firepit roaring.
Finally making a post to Thursday Doors at a reasonable time on a Thursday no less. I’m proud of myself. Anyway, enough self congrats, time for some doors. The first shot was so RED I thought I should continue the theme.
As always, thanks to the creator of Thursday Doors and please follow the link to Dan’s site – No Facilities for far more talented posts.
Red seems to be the color for this family. Photo by Mike Hartley
And while the door he is painting is black. The red brick wall and the gentleman’s red hair continue my theme.
A serious artist. Photo by Mike Hartley
And our red antiques storefront.
I believe I shot this one in Easton MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
That was a disappointing turnout for the game last night at the University of Maryland. Even the students bailed on the game. The announced attendance was 10,461. I’m sorry but 2/3rds of them must have been in the restrooms or at the concession stands for the entire game.
The crowd lacked the energy of a normal Maryland game. We have to get butts in those seats.
One of the great things about being up early is the sunrise. On a cold morning like this though I’m more inclined to look at one of the webcams in Ocean City MD and catch the beauty of the beach, water and sun. Like this one from the Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn.
A doctor’s appointment this afternoon and then I’m free to work on the hobbies. I’ve caught up with the mother ship, and I’m prepared to set sail.
Sailing out of Cambridge MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Wow that week went by fast. Time to find some doors. I didn’t like the few I shot yesterday so I’m digging into the archive and that is dangerous. Time is so tight I only checked two previous posts on this town and haven’t used these before, but I could be mistaken.
These are from the town of St Michaels Maryland.
As always, thanks to the creator of Thursday Doors and please follow the link to Dan’s site – No Facilities for far more talented posts.
That is the title a couple of my friends, and I attribute to this day of the week. We usually gather sometime during the week and when it lands on a Thursday it’s a Thirsty Thursday day. I think it gets them to wound up. But who am I to say, a man without enough limitations.
Anyway, it’s good to be upright and happy another day in life. Some music has it off to a bright start and a good night’s rest for a change of pace. So, a lot of energy and positive mindset is at hand to spend on the day.
A trip to the art supply store is needed. Especially to pick up some things for my granddaughter who is a budding artist, like her mom. I wish I had a natural talent. But I’m one who needs a lot of practice, trial and error before I start to knock out something I’m proud of.
I’ve seen my daughter and granddaughter doodle and say I couldn’t do that in 20 attempts. But that is part of what makes my work rewarding. It takes some time and is a journey.
Time to get back to some chores before more fun.
The winds didn’t help last night. I still need to get out with the leaf blower and rake but it’s still blowing hard out there this morning. There is a rumor of flurries this coming Monday and rain this weekend so my window for clearing is limited.
Snow. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Sunrises are calming, to me. I take some time before the actual sunrise to watch the sky start to come alive. And then that first sliver of sun across the horizon. I wish I was at the beach in person watching it come up over the Atlantic.
I have to call and schedule some dental work. I’ve put that call off 3 for days, but I guess I have to make it eventually so here it goes.
Looks like travel just became a lot more complicated.
Living like you’re on permanent vacation.
Each year this vessel that carries this twisted mind gets decreasingly tolerant of cold weather.
I’ve been trying to be active in the Thursday Doors challenge and asked why not give Dan some more props for some great work in keeping these going. To see how to participate check out main CFFC page. And thank you again Dan.
This week’s focus is Libraries and Bookstores. I’m so disorganized I’ve only found 2 venues. I know I have some shots of the Easton Library and the one in Mt Washington. Hopefully I’ll find and share those later.
Sadly, this Barnes and Noble bookstore closed in 2020 after 22 years at the Power Plant in Baltimore.
Top of the building. Shot both in 2014.
Being I worked in the newspaper publishing field I was always attracted to the NewsStand section of the store.
The song Shine on You Crazy Diamond from Pink Floyd started playing as I opened this photo to edit. And then I said it’s fine as it is.
Grill. Photo by Mike Hartley
The first Sunday in November. The clocks have been moved back. Our monthly Miata club meeting will start next Sunday afternoon, a change from our Monday evening meets during warm-weather months.
I’ll have to try harder to get to the winter events. The car shows are pretty much done for the season. There is a good one at the Timonium Fairgrounds in December inside, but admission is too much for this kid.
Did some marshmallows over the firepit last night for the first time with my granddaughter. That was fun. Taking her and her mother to lunch today.
Just happened to be listening to some music while editing some car show pictures and this combination hit at the same time. This old roadster and AC/DC Back In Black.
2 seaters are the way to go. Photo by Mike Hartley
Life is full of unique combinations. As they say, timing is everything.
Welcome to November. It gave me pause because the year has flown by again. And it shifts into hyper speed for the holidays.
I’m cruising into the new month with some fresh thoughts and ideas. Some creative, some for life, some for food. I’ll see if I can share some along the way.
My morning is about to kick into high gear with a 6-year-old to entertain and teach. Hope your morning is as bright as it is here.
I was missing in action on Thursday. A bit under the weather so I slept for a change of pace forgetting my mission to participate in Thursday Doors. So here I am a day late and dollar short but within the allowable window.
Sharing some doors I shot on Tuesday in Ellicott City MD.
As always, thanks to the creator of Thursday Doors and please follow the link to Dan’s site – No Facilities for far more talented posts.
I’ll take the servants entrance, thank you.
Making a new door.
Caboose door.
No handicapped entrance here. You go down 20 steps to get to the steps to go up to this door.
Woke not feeling 100% so took it easy today. First time in a while I slept during the day. At least the headache has subsided. I didn’t venture out more than a few feet on the back deck today with the camera.
Appreciating the view from my deck. Photo by Mike Hartley
I did have a visitor on the screen and one on the deck railing. The wasp seemed to be on his last days.
Go Green. Photo by Mike Hartley
The last cutting of the lawn will be this weekend. Then winterizing the mowers and store them for the season.
Almost put my hand on this guy by accident. Photo by Mike Hartley
Burning Again
I humped a half cord of wood, stacked in a few spots for easy access and covered it on Wednesday before the rains today. First time we have got wood in a while. I haven’t used the fireplaces in a bit, but I’ve had my wood burning stove going and I will have it fired up this weekend.
Music and the Mind
I can’t explain it. Music does something to me. Actually, it does a lot of things to me and always has. It can rescue me. It can also get me in trouble (tunes and a manual gearbox). It brightens my attitude when I need it to. And tonight is one of those times.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Don’t fight that urge, if it’s a good thing.
Missed the news today. Not a bad feeling.
It’s odd to be doing my second post of the day just before midnight when the early morning is more the norm.
I should have gotten motivated Monday and gone on a hike again. Maybe I’ll make up for it with some shooting early this morning.
Tomorrow is another opportunity. Photo by Mike Hartley
More people traffic on the bridge than cars. Photo by Mike Hartley
And yet more people emerging from the trails. Photo by Mike Hartley
And why not walk along the water paths. Photo by Mike Hartley
Quiet Again
I know more working people than retired like me. That means Monday is a bit more quiet than other days of the week.
Hopes
Sometimes I get my hopes up. I should know better at this age.
Dentist Time
Nothing wrong that I know of, just a cleaning/check-up tomorrow. I’m still getting used to my new dentist.
Young Artist
My granddaughter is excited and working on various arts. This makes me so happy and inspired to help her. I’m looking forward to her inspiring me. I need to think younger and without as many boundaries.
Alone
We’re more alone than we think we are. I’ve been good at deluding myself to this fact for a long time.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Ice cream additions are sweet.
I don’t know why I’m amazed when I shouldn’t be, but I still am. It feels like were going through the motions when we shouldn’t be.
Some days I just look out my back door and see unexpected visitors. Well not unexpected, just that they appear and disappear at will. Some make a ruckus. Some leave a mess. Others soar and employ stealth. Some slither and sneak.
Today two common friends. One Hawk and one Deer
The hawk just finishes a meal and being taunted by a much smaller opponent.
With the leaves falling this reminds me of the line in movie Predator. When Mac says, “I can see you”
The other having just lost the spots of youth but far from grown deer grazing in my backyard and froze when I opened the door. I was surprised she was still there when I came back with the camera.
Another old work friend reached out and told me about the passing of another coworker I was close with. He was one of the “Lifers” at the job. I had the pleasure of working closely with him for about 7 years but shared almost 20 years in the same area.
In many ways he was the most important mentor I ever experienced in my career. The man was talented far beyond what little credit was given to him. He was extremely knowledgeable and would prepare with precision.
He kept to himself pretty much, but we seemed to click, and he took me under his wing. We would take breaks together, sometimes meet for breakfast before a long day at a remote data center where we knew lunch would be unlikely.
Even though he worked there for decades he was the consummate behind the scenes professional. A very important one. One of those that keeps a daily paper a daily paper or the website up and running 24/7 without fanfare.
Actually, we shared a lot of laughs and saw a lot of the same irony about the workplace. We also had each others backs which wasn’t all to common.
May you rest in peace John. And thank you for making our time together fun and rewarding.
May the breeze be at your back. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s a few weeks early to declare victory but I may have made it through another grass cutting season.
I saw one of those old timer quotes that said, “I’m so old, my high school had a smoking area.” Well, I’m so old that we smoked in the school bathrooms till they came up with the idea of smoking areas.
Watching my better half sleep makes me smile.
A ton of accomplishments so far and the day is only halfway through.
In a post about food, I talked about grilling and that being one of my favorite ways to cook when a loyal follower Sheree asked, “What is it about men and BBQ’s?” That is a damn good observation and question.
I didn’t grow up in a family that grilled out. Mostly a picnic or end of year cookout from various sports leagues I played on usually at the coach’s home. So, they were few and far between. Dad passed when I was young and Mom didn’t BBQ.
It wasn’t till just after high school that one of my best friends would grill some New York strip steaks, out back in his grandmother’s home where he was staying to go to school and work in the town of College Park.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Soon we all had our own Webber grills and were all active outside chefs. We, being my two best friends and myself. They are very good at it and I’m no slouch. I’ve never used gas, always charcoal. Most of the time that has been the standard with all of us. Of course, some wood for smoking when needed. One had a pellet smoker for a while.
The Weber is an all season appliance. Photo by Mike Hartley
So why does it seem to be a male dominated activity. I have no frigg’in idea. But it always has been for me and most men I know. Yes, I watch some of the BBQ cooking contest and there are women competing in those but in the circles, I’ve run in I have yet to meet a woman who’s the griller of the home.
BBQs involve fire and men like lighting and maintaining a fire. Maybe some primal calling, I don’t know but getting a fire going in a pit, fireplace or grill is fun.
I love winter grilling. Photo by Mike Hartley
Grilling involves tongs, and those are fun to play with and click while cooking. Or to chase your better half with before taking the food outside to cook. He who holds the tongs, holds the power.
It’s OUR kitchen outside. Lots of room, if we spill something the dog or ants get it. Other guys to talk to. Usually there is beer, frowned upon by females while cooking but a staple of grilling activity. Ladies are welcome to the grill area if smiling, complimenting the smell and can’t wait to eat. Anything else will be met with side eye or peering over glasses.
Men like to watch meat and fish cook and not in the oven or microwave. On a metal grate and open fire with flames occasionally touching it.
Muscles, Clams, Mahi Mahi, Cod, Rockfish, Shrimp, Lobster, Scallops. All great grilled. Photo by MH
There is a spirited discussion on who is the better grill chef between the men with all kinds of offensive language. Offering critique, advice, and criticism while grilling is a direct afront to the grill master and could lead to blows depending on the number of drinks before the grilling started. Most ladies I know don’t include fights (play or real) as part of cooking.
Most of the time the good-natured back about who is better grill chef goes on till the grilling is complete, where most ladies won’t say a bad thing about each other’s cooking in front of each other. Men on the other had will remember every fail you ever had on the grill and tease you about it while you’re cooking so the laughter will continue.
Coals getting ready. Photo by Mike Hartley
Grilling involves getting smoke in your face and having your cloths smell like smoke sometimes. Again, not popular with most of the females I know.
Most guys will stand outside in any weather. I’ve fired up the grill when it’s been over 100 outside in the shade. I’ve fired it up in the snow. Men are nuts.
Good grillers will use marinade and various seasonings which is like a discussion of the finest wines when men stand around the grill. Even taking a trip to each other’s spice cabinets to see what is stocked.
Nice steaks from the old Laurel Meat Market. Photo by Mike Hartley
We have rules in our kitchen (grill area). No kids running around. Only accredited grill master’s within the cooking zone.
Women may know the best meats from the food market. Men know where every butcher shop is within a 100-mile radius and probably have sampled every one and again will argue which is the best.
Most of our sons will have a natural interest in it which excites the hell out of us.
We finally get to share that pride women have when completing a home cooked meal that everyone will like.
I’m guessing this is the final reason. Most women can beat a man, hands down in the kitchen and cooking overall in most cases. I know my better half can. But on the grill, I’m the master. Not that she couldn’t do it. She probably lets me do it to feel good and not have to cook one of the few nights of the month.
So, either a lot of women have advocated that territory to men or they secretly are playing us to get us to help cook occasionally.
A tip of the chef’s hat to the ladies that like to grill. All are welcome, warning the grill area can get racy at times.
Trying to approach the day with a better mindset and it’s working. Now I must keep stringing days of photography together, regardless of the weather outside. And I better get used to it because the cooler than normal weather that has been upon us looks like it will continue.
As one of my friends says, “dress for it.” I won’t be looking for a swing with the sunrise this morning and the temps are still in the 30s but maybe this weekend when it gets near 60.
Looking at this reminded me of my youth. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s been some time since I’ve sat in a swing. This is the type of swing we used to have. Sometimes a single rope with a round disk with the hole in the middle for the rope. I paused for a few minutes looking at this one in a yard in Granite MD.
Nothing like a swing on a hot summer day where you create your own breeze going back and forth with little effort. My Uncle Bob had one at his home and I’d always be out on that when visiting.
You know, I could easily put one out in front of my house, and I think I might run that by the boss. The grandkids might like it. Or at least that can be the pretext for putting one up.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Music is inspiring me this morning.
At what point will the majority come together and say enough is enough?
Yesterday was going so well. And like life, it changed.
I’ve got more power washing to do on a large fence. I hope the wind isn’t blowing again. It’s too chilly for a shower.
Don’t forget, you’re responsible for your own happiness.
Yesterday, there was a misfire. Somewhat productive but lots of downtime. More than I planned, so I can’t say the week is off to a flying start.
Today I hope to be doing a lot better and getting off my behind.
But you know what they say about the best laid plans, don’t you. That’s one reason I rise early in the mornings. I can get some things accomplished and relax a bit before the day is put in gear for others.
We picked a new spot for dinner this week and I’m calling for reservations later today. That’s a fun thing to start the week with and gives some anticipation to the coming days.
One thing I don’t really want to do but needs doing is some power washing of the fence. Thankfully it will be warmer today.
The attic is now cleaned out. That was a project, but another one to check off the list.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Seems like we are living in a world of two separate realities.
The Oval office holder says I’m not representative of our country and I’m whacked out. Come see me about my personal message to you if you got the balls.
I didn’t know my Ring service was linked to Amazon Web Services systems till they went down this morning. Something else I just added to my list to change in the future.
If the No Kings rally was a hate America rally, what was January 6th?
My AI plan is to avoid it.
Pardoning George Santos boggles my mind, like so many other things being done.
Even though this is beautiful I still prefer the convertible. This split window was at the Endless Summer Show in Ocean City MD.
I keep trying to talk my friend into taking his Vette to OC. Photo by Mike Hartley
This one below was also in Ocean City but during one of our summer vacations.
The dog’s name is probably Blue. Photo by Mike Hartley
They are some beautiful rides. But I would need a secure storage facility or a garage like a bunker to store them. Having a Miata is a lot simpler and I have a lot of fun with it so I’m happy and worry free.
Today and tomorrow may be some of the last good convertible weather so get out there.
The last couple days I’ve started strong but ran out of energy. That old ability to light the candle at both ends and keep it burning long, seems to be fading. Yes, it still works some days, but more often than not, when I give the day a good effort for 8-10 hours, I’m getting spent.
I wouldn’t blink at working 12-18 hours in a day for decades. I wouldn’t even guess the number of 24-hour days I put in and some 36-hour ones here and there. I believe there was one 60-hour day when the press broke down, and then the inserter.
Hey, I’ll take 8-10 hours. Any day I can be productive and get an opportunity to create something, its a good day.
Partial success on one of my photo projects yesterday. Over 140 images edited and uploaded to the gallery of the 100 that were there. The end is in sight for collection of all the images of a very important subject. One that has been a joy and sorrow at the same time.
The collection of shots from my son’s first pet, one that was very loved and is missed. Step one is almost complete, going back 12 years. That’s one of my goals to finish this week. 80% done.
The next goal is to edit the 400 remaining shots from the first pass through of the Endless Summer Car Show and upload the best of those to the photo site and add a few links to share them.
One of the colors that caught my eye last weekend. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m not intimidated by bullies.
Hopefully the next to last lawn cutting of the season.
I work with pastels, and I got some charcoals and a pad recently. Which reminded me I haven’t tried black and white photography in a while.
What makes a good neighbor? – Asks the daily writing prompt again. I wrote a piece last year called Neighbor that covers it pretty well.
So, I’ll talk about a few other observations. We have a longtime neighbor down the street moving away later this year. Our children all grew up together. He more than helped me build my deck. We used to go to dinner or cookouts here and there.
They are the second longtime neighbor that our families had a long connection with that moved this year. Change is the only constant in life. When we first moved here, there was nothing but woods behind us for decades. Then another home was added to the court behind us. While we have a wooded view in the summer, but as the trees shed the corner of a home appears to the right.
We have two properties that are in danger of collapse. At the same time, homes near a million $. One nice property was purchased about 2 years ago and hasn’t been lived in since. Very strange, seeing someone in and out every month or two, for a few hours, but otherwise unoccupied.
I hear we have a State Policeman in the neighborhood, but we haven’t met. Large family but almost never seen. We have a couple of elderly OGs still. But transition will be coming to those homes also. There are several of us who are entering our senior years and a mix of young newcomers, most of which I don’t know well yet.
I get along well with the longtime neighbors to one side and across the street. The neighbor on the other side is a struggle at best. They still own the home but moved elsewhere I believe and I’m guessing now they have other family living there. I believe they also rent rooms out. They don’t take care of the property and in the past built on my property to where I had to pay for a survey and get their shed, animal pen and garden off my land. They almost burnt their place down twice with open burns and got sited by the county.
A longtime neighbor (who was also my dentist) just retired so I might look him up more. I’ll probably make more of an effort to get to know my new neighbors.
One of them down the street I think I might meet before some others. They are car enthusiasts. I’m also a car enthusiast, but I don’t tear up and down my street. I’ve done some eyeballing when they came rolling down a few times and that seems to have solved it for now with the exception when they had a meet at their house and they all rolled out for a cruise and more than a few got squirrely on the way out.
It’s an interesting and ever-changing neighborhood. At one time we were the young childless couple in the hood. Then a family and now one of the neighborhood OGs.
As we exit our neighborhood street, this house sits across the street looking left on Woodstock Road. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m trying to look at what I accomplish more. It helps balance what I see in front of me and keeps me going. Taking a few seconds of pride or just appreciating that chapter of the journey is okay. Satisfaction should come along the way and not just at the completion of a project.
The other day I was learning how some new bits for the Dremel tool and was just pleased with some of the test cuts I made. And it gave me an idea of how to use two of them on creating hair texture.
I saw many wonderful, completed marvels at the car show. The people that were really excited were those in mid project. Like the guy at our hotel whose car was just primer grey, and he added yet to be replaced, dry rotted window seals. And yes, he was heading home with it on the trailer before the rain.
But I heard and saw his car run and he’s got the mechanical part down pat. Him and others I ran into that were talking about their builds clearly the best excitement besides driving the finished project was the doing it.
Or the father/son I met on the boardwalk discussing their Ford and Chevy projects. The smiles and grins said it all. And then when something similar road by the eyes would widen.
Speaking of doing it, I’ve got to get back to several things if I’m going to make the best use of this day. And get my own grin and smile working.
What a great time in Ocean City the last few days. It was the Endless Summer Car Show, and it was the largest attendance I’ve seen in a while. Even with the foul weather coming up the coast and Sundays awards and activities moved to Saturday, it was a winner of a week.
My better half and I went down in the Miata to Muscle Car Heaven. Bike week can be loud, but those twins can’t complete V8s with little or no exhaust restrictions. It was music to my ears. The smell of high-octane fuel being burned and the smiles and acknowledgements of many wonderful works of automotive art.
I think the range of years I saw was from 1930 to present day. From classic VWs to Pro Steet Rods with cams so radical it sounds like it’s going to stall any moment. The number of classic trucks seems to be on the increase also. Caddy’s and Corvettes, Coupes and Customs, Camaros and Caminos, Pony cars and Pick Up trucks, Judges and Jeeps, and anything on 4 wheels, side by side up and down Coastal Highway.
The longest Boardwalk Parade I’ve seen by far was on Friday morning. It went on for two and half hours. Met a father and son from PA and we guessed years and models against one another for a while and had many laughs and stories to share.
Even though it was dry Thursday and Friday, it was very overcast a majority of those two days. Woke to some scattered short showers on Saturday morning but the sun was trying to make a short peek before that, Nor Easter comes up the coast. When I left, I heard 2-4 inches of rain and 50-60 mph winds for Sunday. I think it’s been downgraded a bit now.
I was just looking at a few webcams from OC between 4-5am and they are bouncing around so the wind must be whipping. And that was verified because I just looked at the cam for the inlet parking lot which is vacant except for the sands blowing across it looking like ghosts flying over it. Kind of ere. And now after 5 am the rain has started.
Anyway, it was a great time and one I’ll make a pilgrimage for again.
A classic 55 Chevy. Love the two tone. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve been sucking fumes of burned high octane fuel. I was in the land of motorheads and loved it. Car shows are a lot of fun for me. The sounds, the colors, the technical details of these machines are something to behold.
The Gasser still lives. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s given me a good chance to practice some photography and meet some great people.
The more I do, the better I feel. And Wednesday was one of those days. In some ways very productive, and others very relaxing. What a combination. I hope it continues into this fine Thursday.
I’ve been thinking a lot about my children today and their careers. That it’s only the middle of their workweek and how tired they probably are. I remember my 30s and 40s and the pressures of work and family. I hope all you working stiffs can hold on just a little longer, for the weekend is near.
I guess this is the last rose I’ll be seeing till the springtime.
Photo by Mike Hartley
My summer started late start and ended early. So, I’m expecting a very mild winter to balance things out or I’m going to be rather cranky when it doesn’t.
This weekend it’s time to get a few pumpkins and I’ll head up to our local spot and pick up a few and get a snowball while I’m looking them over.
One of my favorite places in our community. Snowball heaven. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Smiling, not so easy all the time but keep trying.
Well, my baseball season came to an end this evening.
I see Nobel Peace Prize being awarded on Friday. Please don’t tell me the world is completely upside down. I’m not sure I could handle the news if it’s the person who begs for one, wins.
I’m neither short nor tall. I guess average for my generation. I’ve always thought it is good to be very comfortable with what you have been blessed with.
This dog may need some counseling.
Walking in St Michaels MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Missed Her
Saturday my better half was out all day with family. I missed her and always have when she isn’t with me. But I have the pleasure again of her company all day today.
How much is Enough
I’ve always considered myself one not in need of a lot of material things. Especially expensive, status and luxury items. Oh, I like them, I ogle over them at car shows or a boat show, but I’m not a buyer.
Now would I be if I had more? Would I be drawn into the same trap that money can make me happier? I hope not, and not at this age I believe. Possibly when I was much younger and didn’t have some basic wisdom.
Drivers
I’m out for less than 5 minutes on a Sunday morning and a BMW 840 passes a car on the exit lane on Rt 99 and the car he passed was going over the speed limit. All just a couple hundred feet before the elementary school. Luckily, he didn’t do that on a weekday when parents were out to witness it.
Some parents might have taken upon themselves to FUBAR the driver.
Everything has been more out of whack on the highways since Covid. The empty roads were speedways when nobody went out much. Now they are full again and we have people that can’t adjust. Or that they are so self-entitled that they will hurt someone without a second thought.
I was out for a total of about 20 minutes on the road and saw another driver run a red light and got cut off badly by another driver trying to get to HIS turn lane.
Here’s hoping for a smoother drive this afternoon.
Department of War
I see Trump has told military leaders to handle the enemy within. I guess that is me. He declared the company I worked for decades for “the enemy of the people” in his first term. I’m a registered democrat and he defines that blocks as radical left lunatics. I’ve always thought I was rather middle of the road.
I’ve never had any thought ever about raising arms against my own military but jeez, if you’re going to send them, I guess I have no choice. My father and two uncles are probably rolling over in their graves thinking they defeated the one and only Hitler.
A lot of military leaders, troops and even local police have some very important decisions to make soon it appears. I’m right here. Same address I’ve been in for decades. Thanks for the warning of war against your own citizens you took an oath to protect and serve. Much appreciated.
Winding down on a Sunday evening enjoying the firepit and a wonderful meal from my better half trying a new recipe. She always has fixed a good Sunday meal.
Fire. Photo by Mike Hartley
It must have been a good weekend because it flew by. I didn’t have as much fun as I had hoped for, but it was still a good weekend for accomplishments.
I’m looking forward to a great Monday. A Miata club meeting and vaccinations are the only things scheduled. And I can’t go to the meeting with a dirty car, so I’ll give it a bath.
Random Thoughts of the Day
My firepit is intoxicating.
I don’t like resorting to help with pain, but I was weak today.
Normalizing bat shit crazy is not normal.
There are people who are just poor at communicating. I didn’t say I wasn’t one of them.
I believe the saying goes “I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it” if memory serves me correctly. It’s not a bad guideline to follow at times. Unless you intend to cross a drawbridge, then timing is important.
Got some cardio pushing a mower, raking and moving some wood. I have no problem keeping active in the summer, spring and fall. It’s winter that kills me. I’m like a bear and I’m inclined to hibernate.
Today washing the cars and some power washing are on the agenda. Might visit a local landscape show.
Unless we get lucky later in October, today and tomorrow might be one of the last 80-degree days of the year. So, I’m going to be outside enjoying it and soaking up some sun. And then finish the day around the firepit relaxing and hopefully enjoying the Yankee victory from this afternoon.
Random Thoughts of the Day
My first good night’s sleep in weeks.
There are few things better in life than hearing your better half say medical test results were good.
Woodworking is fulfilling because it’s so easy to see progress.
To say I have an issue with the current administration would be the understatement of the year.
I think I’ll call my children today.
I’m holding down the fort. My best friends are both out of town.
Doctor Feelgood at the helm this morning. The best I’ve felt all week. I think some exercise is in order with the treadmill and some light weights this morning.
It’s also going to be a photographic day. I’ll do some studio work when the rain starts later. Some portrait work is also on the agenda this afternoon. Then a ton of editing this evening trying to finish up a few projects.
This morning is prep for some of the family shots.
There are a few dozen chores awaiting me and some family time after that. So, a packed day indeed.
I’m taking the cover off in hopes of a short ride before the day’s activities and rain remove that from being possible.
What lurks behind the curtain? Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Only through harder effort will I improve beyond where I’m at.
Chapstick season is approaching.
Funny the party in total power can’t keep the government running. The party looking for compromise is the party that has none.
If you thought there were a good number of people in dire need of help before, just wait.
Less pain than yesterday so a victory to start the day. And a beautiful sunny day outside to enjoy and revel in. I’ll open the shed soon for the implements to battle Mother Nature. The hammock and cushions are already out.
An open day except a trip to Lowes and some chores. A busy weekend ahead filled with family and activities.
The rain was really needed. I’m worried that it’s been so dry that the color this year might be a bit muted.
I slept in this morning after rising in the middle of the night. Worked hard through the day mowing and trimming trees. I took a 5-minute break and grabbed the camera and caught two visitors to my back yard.
With some of the foulage dropping they can’t hide as easily.
I was lazy and didn’t get my monopod out so my apologies for the sharpness.
The shower I’m about to hop into is going to feel great.
Hopefully I’ll have some more time this evening for creativity.
The fall season kicks off in about 9 hours here in the Eastern time zone of the U.S. I like fall till the leaves are gone, then I start to get depressed.
It’s nice being outside by a roaring fire in late afternoon or early evening. The colors of the season are wonderful while they last. It’s the season of our wedding anniversary and we have a nice number coming up this year.
We love getting to the beach in the offseason before it gets cold, we usually squeeze in a few days at the shore.
I don’t like the days getting much shorter on sunlight. And the intensity of the sun fades so what I do get doesn’t feel as strong as those summer days in the hammock.
The days I’ll be riding around with the top down are numbered. And the days it will sit under a cover will increase as the weather get sloppier.
The grass will still need mowing for a few more weeks and then I’ll winterize the equipment. Oh, and the most important aspects of winter. Getting the heating systems services soon and upgrading our attic insulation.
I have another 6-8 weeks before I go into my winter funk. This premature fall we had during summer weeks has already got me worried it might be a cold winter.
So, I’ll make the best of that remaining good weather and appreciate the coming color of the season.
I’ve misjudged a few things in life. I love it when I misjudge something, and it turns out in a positive way. Sometimes there aren’t any ramifications, positive or negative. But most commonly when misjudging things there can be negative implications.
Recently I’ve come to the realization I’ve misjudged something important and now I have to adjust. Some of it was new information so it wasn’t a total misjudgment, but I should have seen it coming. There were hints along the way.
Live, learn and adapt is what I’m doing again and making it work for me instead of everyone else. A common flaw of mine, pleasing others first or only and putting my interest aside. Well I’m too old to spend time trying to enlighten, satisfy or and please some. So changes are coming.
I didn’t prioritize correctly and get out for some new shots so pulling a few from the archive again. I’m going out this weekend to capture next week’s doors so I can get back in rhythm again.
The town of Mt. Airy Maryland had a few interesting buildings I thought I’d share.
Join the fun of Thursday Doors. The link to Dan’s Site – No Facilities to see many more talented displays of grand entrances. Wishing everyone good health and seeing you next week. And as always thank you Dan.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Unfortunately, the last thing I heard is the Train Depot closed last Christmas.
Storefronts Photo by Mike Hartley
I feel for small businesses, they are even in an ever-increasing difficult spot.
Looking up North Main St. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve got to get around to all the small towns in Maryland.
Garage that seems to specialize in Mazda Miata. I’ll be paying them a visit soon. Photo by Mike Hartley
Till next week my Thursday Door participants and viewers.
It’s going to be a wet and windy day on the Maryland shore today. And the rain will spread inland to us also but I’m hoping to still spend some time outside this morning.
Angry seas. Photo by Mike Hartley
I do miss that sunrise I usually watch over the Atlantic. And chance of a sunset looks dim. A few days of rain are needed in this area anyway.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Creating something each day is a lot of fun. Creating many things a day is a lot more fun.
Chopping wood is good therapy.
I’ve fallen behind on technology. And I’m now fine with that.
I was lazy this morning and didn’t get out before daylight like I hoped. Here’s wishing for another shot at it tomorrow morning.
It felt good to get the Dremel tool out and do a little work with it. I was playing around with carving some seashells. A theme my granddaughter loves – the sea – and I do all I can to encourage her. Broke the first few, but I’m getting the knack of it.
Sort of wishing I was at the shore with this view. I could use a nice cold frozen drink. It’s still a beautiful day right here today.
The beer was my sons, and the wine is his better half’s. Photo by Mike Hartley
Football is a far thought from wasting time on. I’ll catch highlights later. It’s not that I don’t like the game, I do. It’s just to beautiful outside and there won’t be many more days like it.
I’ve put in a few hours work, now it’s time to play before I light the grill. And maybe a late night-ride later.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I feel out of place in most places.
I read a quote that said, “Happiness is only real when it’s shared.” I might be less happy than I thought.
Not knowing what I’m doing isn’t a problem. Lots of people tell me often.
Action is one of the keys to telling you about people. Inaction can tell you a lot also.
I’m sorry, I started this post off laughing at how happy I used to be at the last workday of the week. That feeling of relief having completed another brutal 4-5 or 6 days of work depending on the schedule that week. That feeling is gone now for me.
There are all kinds of thoughts on retirement. Some are comfortable and happy continuing their work for a lifetime. Others try to retire as early in their life as possible. Most work till somewhere around the normal retirement age of the late 50s to the early 70s.
I wish I had retired earlier, but all things in their own time as my mother would say. I do know I’m enjoying getting the time to do a little living.
A call from an old friend who hasn’t made the best decisions along the way will never be able to retire. He actually did, just long before he should have. Another friend who could have retired many years ago is still working. He just loves the challenge in front of him.
Yet another who is younger by a few years would like to retire but is just a few years away from being in the right position I’m guessing. There are just as many reasons why people do and don’t retire as there are people.
I know I’m more active now, I’m happier each day, I’m getting some proper rest for the first time in many decades, I’m eating better and smarter. I’m more relaxed which helps the creativity.
Today is a good example. Besides some chores I hope to get some exercise outside on a beautiful day. And some seat time in the Miata. We started off the weekend at a local favorite last night, Oscars Ale House in Woodstock where we had another great meal.
So, it’s a Saturday morning with an open weekend. HELL YEAH, the tunes are already filling the basement air as I move between the shed, bringing the tools for the day out and the computer. My better half was kind enough to bring me a few fresh baked cinnamon buns for breakfast.
And I’m moving as effortlessly as a jellyfish. I hope I feel that way at the end of the day.
Jellies Invasion Exhibit. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Time is an incredibly valued commodity that can’t be traded.
What I Like About You – a great song from The Romantics. Never fails to get my body moving and singing.
I always feel behind when I don’t get an early start.
If you’re looking for help, see THEFIXR. I know my 2-seater fixes whatever is ailing me. I think I’m going to have to look into one of those personal license plates. I’ve worked hard all my life, might as well personalize it a bit.
Now there is one car I’d love to drive. Photo by Mike Hartley
I have seen some instances of people putting these big V8s in Miata’s but that is a substantial rebuild for that car. But if I ever played the lottery and won it would probably be sent out for that change before the first check came in.
There have been a few periods in my life where I haven’t had a vehicle I enjoyed driving. I can’t believe I survived those times. I loved driving a lot and when I had my 74 Camaro or the 85 Honda Shadow 1100 and my Miata now.
All 3 are great cruising machines. Not so great in the off season of winter, being rear wheel drive and manuals, but a guaranteed smile any other time of year.
I’ve got to get up from here and get to some chores so I can do some road time when the temps warm in a few hours.
After a two-week hiatus I’m returning to the Thursday Doors vigil. Sorry for the absence but it was unavoidable.
Come join the fun of Thursday Doors. The link to Dan’s Site – No Facilities to see many more talented displays of grand entrances. Have a great week all. And as always thank you Dan.
The first shot is the backyard of the Pink Cabbage shop just outside Ellicott City.
The town of Ellicott City is full of great doors.
Of course, the place is so old that most of them don’t fit or close well.
Doors on hills are always interesting.
Notice the bottom of the door cut off. I should have stood down there with it and gave it a better perspective.
This date 9/11 has two significant meanings to me. First, it’s my mother’s birthday. And obviously it’s the date of those tragic terror attacks. How quickly events like that fade from people’s priorities to pause for a few minutes this morning and respect all those that perished that day. Those who continue to perish because they worked at that site, those in our armed services that have fought that threat from that day forward.
Wall of Newspaper front pages on 9/11/2001 from around the world at the Newseum. Photo by Mike Hartley
It was the only one of my mother’s birthdays that I wasn’t with her that day in 2001. I had planned to take off early and be with her for the afternoon and dinner but that didn’t work out, being it was such a busy news day.
Her birthday is a day I’m able to smile about a little bit. The anniversary of her passing is more difficult. If there is any goodness in me it’s because of her. Raising my sister and I from an early age and being both provider and both parents was incredible. Long before there was help and support for that kind of thing.
She was from a generation and time that endured a lot. And she had many personal and medical challenges. But she always came through them. She worked hard, she was strong, sometimes outspoken but very respectful, compassionate, charitable and loving. She believed there are good in everyone.
I love her and miss her but feel she is part of me always. Happy Birthday Mom.
I was lucky to come upon a Facebook group a while back that I joined. It’s the Maryland Miata Club and I’ve met a lot of nice and knowledgeable people at the monthly meet-ups. Plus, it’s in the parking lot of one of my favorite Italian places called 3 Brothers.
Taking a short cruise before the meet was great with the top down, the late afternoon sun beating down and a cool low 70s day. What is not to like.
It felt good to go to the meet with a clean car and I’m going to do some more detailing today. It will be 10 years old early next year and it’s still looking strong. I believe I have about 60K on it. Since retiring and getting a beater car to use for errands and bad weather I don’t put much mileage on it each year.
And what I do is all pleasure which it should be in a car like that. Then again even when I was working it was my Remedy. For whatever ailed me at the time.
The club has some beautiful rides in it and some have really stuck some funds and technology into these roadsters.
I’m excited about getting out today already.
Here is a shot of one I liked at yesterday’s meet.
Photos by Mike Hartley
Am I part of the last generation that are true motorheads? I rode a cruiser for a few decades. But sales of Harley Davidsons are down and will continue to go down with an aging client base. The same is true for classic cars. I see very few young people at shows and the ones that are, have late model tech machines, not the muscle cars of days past.
Yes, there are a few exceptions but there are a lot of grey hair sitting behind these cars as well as the people attending the shows. My kids and most of my friend’s children have no interest in muscle cars or motorcycles.
So will these things lose value over time. Prices for them the last for decade or so seems quite high. Will parts to keep them going even become more difficult to acquire? What is going to happen to all these classics when we aren’t around anymore. Will they go the same way as every previous generation?
Describe your ideal week. – Now there is a question for a Monday morning.
My mind wandered into the realm of what ifs, when thinking about an ideal week. But I’ll keep it reality based so it’s possible that this week is an ideal week.
Waking each morning healthy next to my better half, who is also healthy and happy, would be a nice start. Sharing breakfast together and planning day trips and time with the children and friends.
During the weekdays we hit small towns or a city like the Nation’s Capital and discover new places to eat. I photograph like I have endless time to process all the images. I paint and draw some. I carve and blog.
I share warm embraces with family and stories around the firepit. I raise a little hell with my best friends.
Spend a few hours with each grandchild.
Some romantic dinners/evenings with my better half.
Get some exercise.
I put the top down and absorb the sun on a day trip to the beach.
Take the time to help someone or do something for a stranger or maybe share some kind words.
Reach out to friends I don’t see often enough and chat.
Spend a few minutes in the hammock looking at the sky. Skip cutting the grass.
And if I still owned a motorcycle. I’d be heading to Bike Week in Ocean City MD this weekend.
I’m a Red Ragtop man myself. Of course mine is no classic like this one. But who knows, if I live a long time and hang onto my baby, someone might be shooting profiles of my classic design. I do have the first year of my model car.
This is a TOP DOWN week ahead. Photo by Mike Hartley
Music is inspiring me this evening. A song came on that was kind of a theme song for me for a bit in my life when I had longer hair. The song – Almost Cut My Hair – by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young came on and made the hairs on the back of my neck tingle a bit.
I’ve thought about letting it grow again. I did a bit during Covid, and my better half was not happy about that trial. Plus, I’m lazy now and keeping it short is easy.
And the next song, another favorite and the town I live in – Woodstock – by the same CSNY. Ah the days of youth. Nice memories.
I’ve got to work out some kinks in the legs so I’m going to see if the treadmill will help. This is going to be a great week ahead.
I’ve heard of the message in a bottle. But a message in a truck about a bottle.
Messages are all around us. Some good, some not so much. I’m going to work on imparting more positive messages to my grandchildren. Making sure they are confident and looking forward with their own vision and not someone else’s.
At one time in life, I subscribed to this thought. Photo by Mike Hartley
I wasn’t confident enough to follow my own path for a long time but now I’m getting with the program. Either worry, or emphasis on what other people thought resulted in much lost time and effort.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Football is back on Sundays. It’s too nice to spend the day inside though so tough luck NFL.
Bacon was on the list of must haves today.
I don’t know how many different types of weeds in the yard I have but its more than a few.
This is shaping up to be a much busier week than I anticipated.
I was butterfly watching as I worked out in the yard yesterday. We are going to do our part and start planting some more wildflowers for them to enjoy. Observing them moving so effortlessly makes me think of my youth and moving with ease.
Photo by Mike Hartley
The mind drove the body like it was more youthful than its actual mileage, but a good night’s rest has restored me to be able return to the battle with mother nature today. I am proud of the progress I made, and this might be the best the place has looked in a good while.
There are two projects I think I’ll get professional help with. Moving a few of the 8×8 10-foot monsters today made me realize I don’t need to be wrestling with lots of them. There is more than enough to keep me busy and challenged.
For that retaining wall project, I’ll play sidewalk super.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m proud I didn’t run out and waste money on the Powerball drawing.
It was nice not watching the news yesterday. I’ll just be double disgusted today.
I’m excited with anticipation about pulling the car cover off later this morning, washing it, having the better half in the other seat with the top down and no destination in mind.
There is a rack of baby back ribs calling my name from York Road.
I’m sorry, I’m just a car addict. Comes from growing up in the 60s and 70s and it’s stuck with me since. And I love side pipes. I used to have a set of Hooker Headers with side pipes in flat black on a Red 74 Camaro that looked a lot like the set below.
They do introduce some extra sound inside the car but if that is a sound you love it’s fine.
Some cars wouldn’t look right without them.
I doubt I’ll have a big V8 again to attach a set to, but one can dream.
Photos by Mike Hartley
Saturday, where did the week go? I did some things this week that were very good, but I didn’t maximize my use of time like I should have. So here is to the weekend of catchup and starting another week off at full speed.
I thought about going for a spin this afternoon. Not on this type of ride, just the stable 4 wheel one. No loops or flips on the agenda.
I haven’t been on my game this week. I’m behind in both chores and hobbies. But I am getting some rest finally. But boy does that impact production.
Our front door replacement is just about complete. I have to paint the trim boards on the inside. They are primed white but I’m putting a semi-gloss coat on them.
Onto the next project. Setting up the firepit in the patio area on Friday. My son and grandson are also coming for a visit. That means getting the tractor out for the young one.
Like the picture above I’ve gone round and round again. So, I will depart till I find another image to pair a thought or two with. Have a great afternoon.
To me, automotive paint is an art form in itself. The color blending process. The prep, and the number of coats of unknown formulas that turn out something like this. And I’ve always loved RED. I fell in love with a Medium Red on a 74 Camaro I owned.
I have a Soul Red Mazda Miata now and I get all kinds of questions and complements on the color.
From the car show at Turf Valley. Photo by Mike Hartley
And each time I go to a car show I see a new red I’d like to have my car painted. And this one really caught my interest. If I do get a new paint job it will have stripes or a design in it.
I’ve enjoyed shooting cars this season. About a month and a half to go for most of the shows in this area. Of course, lots of clubs continue to meet year-round like our Miata one. We just switch to Sunday afternoons in the shorter daylight months.
Well, it’s time to motor onto a different subject. We just knocked out another home renovation project by replacing our front doors. And we are both very pleased with the work of B.T. Windows and Doors. The next project is an electrician followed by attic insulation and then maybe a few windows replaced.
I’ve got to get up to my sons this month and do some power washing on his place. Too much talk about chores, back to fun.
Some baseball, some treadmill and some education.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s been too long since I’ve had a fish at the end of the line.
I just realized our fleet of cars is getting a bit long in tooth.
When I get a good idea for a practical joke I get a really good smile.
I fell asleep very early last night, so I rose very early this morning. I went back to bed mid-morning and slept till almost noon. I guess it’s fitting, being I’ve been laboring all weekend, so I took today off and enjoyed life some.
Finally got around to ordering a fire pit today. I wanted one last year but put it off but not this year. Hope to start making good use of that outside patio this fall and winter season.
Took a casual cruise and stopped for ice cream at Bruster’s with my better half. Grilled out some chicken and now ready to enjoy the evening. I’ve got some shots to download, some more writing to do and see if the artist easel calls my name.
This guy decided to pose for a mug shot just before dinner. Probably guilty of crapping on my car.
Visiting for building materials in my backyard.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The treadmill was glad to see me back.
I saw someone going down the wrong side of Rt 40 by Normandy this afternoon. They recognized this when traffic came over the hill at them. No accident luckily.
Standing outside on the last day of August yesterday, I never thought I’d be glad to stand close to the fire on the grill to keep warm. Usually, I’m sweating you know what off.
I hope to get a grip on my steering wheel and shifter today. And that be the guide for the day on getting a grip on enjoying life. I’ve been working too hard for the last few days. Time for some fun. And with a sunny day of 80 degrees what is not to like.
A shot from a recent car show. Photo by Mike Hartley
Some upgrades to the home this week, that are long overdue. New front doors and a new cover for the well head in the front yard. I’ll share some photos of before and after later when work is completed.
Being it’s a new month I thought I’d get back to walking on the treadmill instead of sitting in front of the TV. Welcome September.
No time to be sitting here any longer when it’s so nice outside. Time to put a few miles on some outside trails. Have a great holiday Monday.
It’s good to look deep into the mirror once in a while. A good chance to be honest with yourself. A chance to see how many grey hairs are moving up from the beard to the scalp. A time to see the lines that life has left. Maybe catch the sight of a surgical scar. A time to evaluate how much life is left in those eyes.
Mirrored firewall, nice. Photo by Mike Hartley
A holiday weekend is upon us. Time for a cruise and maybe a stop at the town ice cream shop later. I hope to fire up the grill and cook some burgers and grill some scallops.
It’s funny how things changed so quickly. I remember being giddy with joy at having holidays. I worked a great number of them the decade before I retired and many before that. So having a holiday like most people was this strange thing for me.
Now in my second year, I’m taking that joy for granted already. Weekdays, weekends, holidays kind of blend together. Which is okay with me because every day is a holiday. Unless there’s a doctors appointment.
Time to step away from the computer and knock out a few chores before grilling and a spirited ride in the go-cart.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Music strikes many emotional chords in me.
I can’t believe it’s the traditional end of summer already. I’m disappointed in my beach attendance.
Would the world lose its mind if the internet went down?
If we ever sell this house, I’m going to have to cut out two bedroom doorframes that we have used to mark the grandchildren’s growth.
I’ve heard of Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane. Shot these in the little town of New Market Maryland. We love eating at The Derby Restaurant and Bar.
Needs some color. Photo by Mike Hartley
We will have to motor up that way in September for a meal and a stroll. I like shooting in that town.
A sweet place to stay. Photo by Mike Hartley
Not feeling myself this morning. Not as sharp as most mornings. Feeling like I’m in and out of it. Moments of clarity and then pauses. Might be due to the unusual amount of sleep I had last night. A full 8 hours which is almost unheard of in one stretch.
And that shot to the head I just took from the corner of the shed as I was weeding around it didn’t help. At least it didn’t bleed long.
We had a special week with grandchildren. A nice way to finish out their summers. A trip to the playground was a lot of fun on Thursday with the 4 month old, 3 year old and 6 year old.
Hand in Hand. Photo by Mike Hartley. Love by Grandchildren.
Got myself my first pair of Sketchers slip-ons. Now I can see myself purchasing a few more of these in the coming years. Not only are they comfortable and light weight, but I DON’T HAVE TO BEND OVER. Old men with bad backs rejoice. I may be late for this party but better late than never.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I don’t believe there is a reason for everything.
And some say tinkering isn’t working.
You come into this world alone, you exit alone. And a lot of the time in between you are alone in this world. You might think you’re not, but you ARE.
A holiday weekend ahead. I’m sure the roads are already busy with people doing the Friday Early Out and off to their destinations. We won’t be going anywhere other than maybe a local stop or two.
Wishing all a safe and joyous weekend.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’ve got to get a better workflow going.
There are some old work friends I need to touch base with.
Like people didn’t know RFK Jr. was going to be a cluster F.
I wrote a post about feeling good this morning and then Karma catches me with a plumbing leak in the ceiling.
I can’t wait to finish setting up my new computer and get to work on it.
The day is about get going again. I think I’ll grab the driver’s seat and make the best of it. I should go put the top down and take a spin.
Mustang seat. Photo by Mike Hartley
Setting priorities is something I’ve been a bit lax in the last few months. I mentioned the other day I’m feeling more focused. I’m getting the cameras out of the bag each day even if its just for a few images. I’d like to spend a few hours a day photographing and editing at least. That rarely happens of course, but I’m in control of that, and I should change to make it the norm.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Watched another beautiful sunset yesterday. Life is good.
I overslept this morning and missed sunrise. Nuts.
I got some good news yesterday. That’s a nice change of pace.
Remember schools are in session again or will be soon so look out for the kids and those big YELLOW things you’re supposed to STOP FOR. We seem to have a problem with that in this area.
The more music I listen to, the happier I am.
If you see the Emergency Broadcast tests at night on TV you are a true night owl.
Some paint jobs stop me in my tracks. This was one of them.
Hood up. Photo by Mike Hartley
Monday was productive on the chore front but lacking in the fun area. Maybe I’ll cure that imbalance today.
Our granddaughter will be here for a visit shortly. That will be fun. I’ve been missing her, and this will be a nice treat before she starts school next week. They grow up so fast. I think I remember saying that a while back about my own children.
Today’s focus in between chores and playing games with a 6-year-old, will be on making prints and building the photo site out. I have a little over 10K images there now. I hope to double that and organize it before the end of the year. It will be a good day to get the camera out and capture some new shots.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Children’s smiles are genuine. Not always the case with adults.
Do you know your neighbors?
For a time, the bathroom scale and I were not friends. Now we speak daily.
Exercise should be like eating, natural and done each day.
Get your motor runnin’, Head out on the highway, Looking for adventure, In whatever comes our way. The first verse of the song Born to be Wild. One of my best friend’s favorite tunes.
A beautiful flathead. Photo by Mike Hartley
Good morning and salutations. My motor is running strong this morning. Getting some things done around the home and yard. And in between a few minutes with the camera, computer or Dremel tool.
My neighbor’s wildflowers are attracting butterflies. I’m getting a few future posts together and working on my sons carving.
Still a lot of chores remaining for the afternoon so let me get back outside.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Something about a few thousand-armed National Guard troops roaming DC doesn’t give me more comfort. Makes me think about being around an unfortunate accident. I was thinking about spending some time down there this coming month but now I’m not sure. Probably would be a lot of great photo ops with armed troops around our national treasures.
I’m tired of football and it hasn’t even started. I’ll watch some games but all this hype and betting and preseason crap isn’t for me.
I’ve got the urge to start cooking more. That could be dangerous. Certainly messy.
It’s nice to see people still restoring these VW Beetles.
Lots of people learned how to drive a stick on one of these.
I think I first road in one in the late 60s.
Shots are from the Rally for the Wreaths held this past Saturday. Supporting the Wreaths Across America organization. The same ones who bring the Wreaths to my parents at Arlington National Cemetery each winter for the holiday. Saves me donating online. Plus, it’s better to see a smiling face when I give.
The wheels are turning in my head again and it feels good. I’ve had some good ideas and have started working on them. I’m also getting better at doing things instead of talking about them.
Looking up Old Columbia Pike from Main Street. Photo by Mike Hartley
Some wheels don’t have to turn at high speeds because they are constantly rotating. I’ve been slack on keeping my creative wheels turning on regular basis. I’m on a mission to change that and this week was a great start.
I’m working on a shell necklace for my granddaughter. Also spent some time sanding a few pieces and working on my photography. And I hope to make good use of this fine but cloudy Sunday.
Hoping your Sunday is a fine and happy one.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I better start writing these memories down before they are gone.
It’s sad that sports won’t have the same meaning too much of our youth as it did to my generation. Gambling has not made it a game any longer.
Spend time learning instead of regretting time wasted previously not learning.
I just looked at two flower pictures I have framed. They were favorites of my Mother-in-law because they were from her garden. When I see gardens, I think of both of my mothers.
Donated yesterday. I hope to make that more common practice.
The Rally for Wreaths car show was held at the Turf Valley Resort today. I wish I had the time to shoot some more images but got a few lights worth sharing.
I didn’t go into the show concentrating on getting headlight images, but a few popped out while editing and I thought it might make a good post.
They moved the show to the larger lot this year. Some didn’t care for it. I liked it because the spaces were larger, and people weren’t crammed together so much.
The plan is to get a few hours of cruising in early tomorrow.
I wish I’d saved up for a classic car or kept my old 74 Camaro.
I am picking up some good recommendations for painting at these shows.
I’m pumped for our next Miata Club meet. I’ve got an idea for some photos that are different from the usual meeting ones.
I think I’ll take my better half to the next show in September at Mikey and Mel’s.
I’d better get some rest if I want to catch some sunrise images tomorrow.
Time has flown by this week. Which is pretty much par for the course. I do feel a bit different though. I’m more focused and feeling more creative.
Now that the rains have stopped, I resumed my battle with Mother Nature yesterday. I was bent over and carried a few heavy objects today that I should have put in the wheelbarrow. Round 1 to Mother Nature.
I’m always excited for my daughter when she starts a new school year of teaching. I know she puts so much into it. So, to my daughter, and all teachers returning to the classrooms, I wish for your safety, health, patience, perseverance, strength and rewarding days with the children and pleasant meetings with the parents and administrations that have your back. Best of luck in this new school year. You are making a positive difference in this world.
I will do my best not to let errands, chores and tasks keep me from having a little fun this weekend. I’m headed out to a local car show this morning.
The daily writing prompt asks – Where did your name come from?
My parents. Other than that, I don’t know squat about it. I know when my mom called me by my full name that I was in trouble.
Okay now onto more important things. It’s Thursday and another sloppy start to the day in central Maryland. The Atlantic Ocean looks quite disturbed today with that hurricane churning offshore. I wish I was down there photographing the storm.
It certainly isn’t feeling like August here. More like early November. Hopefully we will have an Indian Summer and make up for these cool temps.
I’m going out to pull the cover off my car and give it a bath later. It’s car show season and I’m not showing up on Saturday with a dirty ride. If I’m not mistaken, the Turf Valley show will be my first stop that day.
I wouldn’t mind owning a ride like this, but I’d just get in trouble. Photo by Mike Hartley
Even though the color combination appeals to me and that giant 582 engine sounds good the gauge setup in this car caught my eye first.
This prompt got me thinking. I haven’t named my car yet. I’ll have to give this some thought. Maybe a personalized license plate. I just checked the first name that came to mind. Maryland has 7 character limit. How about MYTHRPY. I just checked the state site and it’s available.
I’m on time for a change of pace for the Thursday Doors Challenge
Join in on the fun of Thursday Doors. The link to Dan’s Site – No Facilities to see many more talented displays of grand entrances. Have a great week all. And as always thank you Dan.
Just a few shots from my Annapolis archive.
I’ve had a few good meals here. Photo by Mike Hartley
I hope to visit the town of Annapolis again next month.
Definition of a corner store. Photo by Mike Hartley
The side streets are a great treasure trove.
One of the many colorful buildings. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s hard not to have a good meal in this town. I think I’ll try The Boatyard Bar and Grill on our next visit.
That sun is out, and I’ll ignore the few clouds about and make great use of the day. August is quickly getting away from me. I’m going for a front row seat myself and will enjoy this Friday. Even the physical labor part. Keeps me healthy.
Take a front row seat once in a while. Photo by Mike Hartley
Actually, I will get some seat time. I was out in the Miata last night and boy did I miss that car. Having a manual transmission again put a smile on my face. Out I’ll go again for some back roads with the top down and tunes on. Waves of the hand to bike riders and runners and of course, other Miata drivers.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The good part about weeding is you have to bend over further than touching your toes. Now no knee bending now.
I have a need for a snowball shortly after the stand will be opening today. Just put the gift cards from the kids in my wallet.
I Can’t BELIEVE I’m seeing some leaves falling from the trees out back already.
Your beach can be anywhere you want. Just keep those images alive in your head.
Interesting how priorities change with your health is challenged. Getting better quickly rises the ladder to the top rung in no time. Feeling better again today but a bit away from 100%.
I’ve got a few chores under my belt but far from what I normally accomplish. Pacing myself to health again. The pace I have chosen though doesn’t seem to be the one that my better half agrees with. I got “the look” when I was out trimming the yard.
I found a few images from my iPhone from one of my sunrise walks on the beach last week. The last few days have been very cloudy here in central Maryland. So, I need my sun and I figure why horde it.
Photos by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
A week of family vacation, being sick for a few days after, I got away from looking at my favorite blogs. Don’t worry, I’m returning today.
As I’m getting older, I’m appreciating rest more.
RFK Jr is affecting your health and your loved ones in a NEGATIVE WAY. So, wake up and pay attention before he kills you or your loved ones.
Time to get more active in some causes and help the direction change.
For some reason the sunset or sunrise on the water makes my soul feel better. It gives me strength. Optimism is gained. Peace of mind is achieved.
As you can see by my last few post, I miss it. Having a week of it was great. I’ll return sooner than later but I’m having withdraw today and I’ll have to get a webcam up later when the time rolls around and toast another day.
Therapy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
You’re in good shape till you’re not.
Mother Nature is trying to kick my behind, but I’m holding my own against her. Thank goodness for power tools.
Maximum tan achieved, without burning. I’m loving summer.
I find myself talking to myself more these days.
Hard work keeps you young but be careful along the way.
I mentioned yesterday that we returned from Ocean City Maryland. The family vacation couldn’t have been better weather wise. Except for a storm that rolled through on Thursday evening.
I knew we were going to get wet so I took the very old Kodak Z812 digital camera and captured a few shots from the inlet parking lot. That camera has seen its day, and is about to become part of the history collection of equipment. Better yet, my granddaughter could put it to use.
A late start for this daily blogger. Just in terms of posting though. I’ve just returned from a short family vacation at Ocean City Maryland. We pulled out of town before 9am to head home. A quick stop at our favorite Eastern Shore Produce stand Wrights Market for some sweet corn, bread, squash, onions, raspberry preserves for my son, BBQ sauce, cantaloupe and some salad dressing all made by them. Oh, also some apple butter.
Sunset on Isle of Wight. Photo by Mike Hartley
The weather was great, we spent time on the beach and pool. Had some good meals and did the Boardwalk with the kids one night.
The storms that rolled through Thursday night were something. I got a few shots right before they hit the inlet area that I’ll post later tonight.
