THREW Mikes EyEz

Original Writings, Images, Video and Artworks of Mike Hartley


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Under a watchful eye

Being observant is a good skill to have. Being aware of your surroundings. As a wanna be photographer my eyes are always on a swivel. While this guy is hunting for a good fish. I’m fishing for a good shot.

A heron standing on a branch by a calm body of water, with a lush green background.
Photo by Mike Hartley

Besides shooting a colorful bug this morning I haven’t lifted the camera to my eye. I should try to get some images this evening, but my energy is low. At the same time, I’m trying to work harder on my passions.

Being I work alone I should make self-evaluations a more regular part of my work cycle. I’m thinking that might help me improve my consistency at least and maybe even get me to another level.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Sports used to be inspiring. Gambling has turned me off of watching it like I used to.
  • The amount of AI that is already being used in businesses phone systems has already pissed me off.
  • The only ones that will turn things around are the ones that you see in the mirror each morning.
  • Okay, I’m tired of the rain.
  • I hear thunder, let me post this before my power goes out again.


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Catch your breath

If you were outside yesterday it would be tough to catch your breath if you were active like our friend here. This little guy needed a break on the bench.

A small bird perched on a branch, surrounded by green leaves, with a blue and white basketball net in the background.
In need of a water break. Photo by Mike Hartley

That will be me today because I plan on spending a lot of the day outside. I’ll have to remind myself to stay hydrated in this heat.

A small bird perched on a branch, showing brown and gray plumage, with a background of green foliage and a blue net.
Put me back in coach. Photo by Mike Hartley

No time like the present to kick this into high gear. Felt good to get an hour of seat time yesterday. I’m going for a few hours today with the top down and cameras along for the ride when we stop for a break.

Speaking of catching your breath, my better half discovered this guy on our porch yesterday. I took him back to the woods behind our home. Not that he won’t be back. I don’t have an issue with them unless they surprise me which they do often. I walked into one resting on a tree branch at eye level a few years back

That long line behind the chair and table is a 5-foot black snake.

A corner patio area featuring a metal bench with a turquoise cushion next to a black side table, alongside a brick wall.
Slither me timbers. Photo by Mike Hartley

Each time I see one of these I end up looking down a lot more for a few days.

A black snake partially hidden under a table, with a smooth texture and a gentle curve on a concrete surface.
Portrait time. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • With 5 days of rain starting on Wednesday evening, I’ll be spending a lot of time outside today and tomorrow.
  • With me the words (mental health) are a contradicting term.
  • Looks like the clown show is starting to wear thin with his fans.
  • Staying out of the way of all the crazies is getting more difficult by the day.


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Pecking away

Another morning where sleep illudes me. Such is life. Maybe if this guy wasn’t pounding away at daybreak I could get back to sleep.

A pileated woodpecker perched on a tree trunk, with its distinctive red crest and black body, surrounded by greenery.
Photo by Mike Hartley


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Same

I’m not having the best hair day myself, so the hat is on while I work outside. I get so excited when I see nature out in force again vs the winter season.

More nature appeared today and I was quick enough to grab a few frames of a family of woodchucks that live in my lower backyard and the woods that it goes into. I’ll download that later because outdoor chores call again.

I believe it’s an Eastern Bluebird. Photo by Mike Hartley

Being outside soaking up some sun while it’s out today and getting some exercise moving mulch. I have to remember to save some time for fun.

I just took the cover off the car to inspire me, but I want to clean gutters and move at least 10 more bags and start spreading mulch before a break.

Random Thoughts of the Afternoon

  • The bags of mulch say the same cubic feet per bag, but I swear they are getting heavier.
  • A wheelbarrow is a nice tool. So is the landscape crew working a few doors up.
  • The nice thing about this time of year is its pre-bug season. Yes, there are some things flying and crawling around, but peak season is a way off.
  • I have a goal; there is a pair of hawks that are hunting in my area, and I’d love to catch (photograph) both together.


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Almost

I like watching a family of woodchucks occasionally come up and feed in my backyard. But today was different. I’m usually very quiet because any noise and they bolt back to the wooded nest and tunnels. It had been about 2 minutes just watching him graze and then I saw him move faster than any time in the past.

Out of the corner of my eye, I see this hawk swoop in with incredible speed and throw on some air brakes. His timing is off and woodchuck makes it back to the woods. I had my camera, but I was looking through a screen. And it all happened so fast I didn’t even have a chance to reach for it.

I’ve got to start sitting outside with the monopod and just keep scanning. There is always wildlife in my backyard.

Beauty by Nature. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Saturday night is alright

Saturday was grey morning but a bright afternoon. I feel good about accomplishments that day but kind of sore from the workout with the yard tools.

Trying some new pain treatment for a week. If that doesn’t work, as the doc says so often, there is a shot available.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ll be hibernating this Tuesday and Wednesday till some warmer weather returns Thursday. I have a lot to do indoors on the list so there won’t be any slacking off. But first an Easter Sunday with the family.

Photo by Mike Hartley

I’ve got some birdseed when we were at the hardware store, so hopefully I’ll have a lot more detail and variety of birds in the future.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Layer 1 of suntan complete without burning.
  • Route 29 is becoming a lot like Interstate 95 through Maryland. Lots of cars, lots of idiots.
  • The house is about to start smelling like a feast is going to be served.
  • I know my grandson will ask me if we can go for a tractor ride in the raid today. And even though saying no will make 100% sense, I will still feel guilty for saying no.


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Good old one two

Back to my earlier start to the day. About 3:30am I believe, was the rise and shine. Well, I’ve got the rising part down. Let’s see what I can help shine today.

Yesterday morning, brought some early spring color to my backyard.

Twisted perch. Photo by Mike Hartley

I noticed the grass starting to recover and start to green along with some sprouts in the garden recently.

Sort of like me this morning, waiting to see what the day brings. Photo by Mike Hartley

The migration north of our feathered friends will add to the spring palette of color. I’ve got to remember to bring my monopod inside. Shooting handheld at distance is hit and miss. Especially with back spasms going on.

I’m so ready for spring but this month’s forecast isn’t looking that positive for central Maryland. No problem, I’ll just extend my hibernation season.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Just watched another beautiful sunrise. Great way to start the day.
  • It’s Jellybean season.
  • Strong storms on the horizon for Monday. Guess I should get a disaster post ready in case I lose power again.
  • A day without a plan brings a smile to my face.
  • My cars are clean in and out, as a matter of choice. I don’t know why that gene didn’t transfer to my kids.
  • Ah, another day that is the dumpster fire of an administration going down in flames. We haven’t even gotten to the good part where they start turning on each other.


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Flying Solo

Being a one-man band is both fun and challenging. It is also limiting in ways. Time to work on all the ideas and projects just runs out before they all can be accomplished. And I’ve now accepted that and it actually helps me prioritize better now.

The only limiting factor is how much I’m willing to do. And lately I’m finding I’m doing more. Not just blogging but in all facets of my work.

Skimming the waves of life. Photo by Mike Hartley

In ways we are all flying solo through life. I’ve been thinking about that and feeling it as of late.

Saw an interesting article – If you grew up in 70s, you likely developed these 5 rare traits most people don’t have today. I could relate to a lot of that.


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Color

This season is typically lacking the color we find in spring, summer, and fall. But occasionally it appears. It’s almost time to think about the last snow of the season. I see some mixed precipitation on Tuesday and I’m hoping that is it. We have had snow in March, but it isn’t that common and I’m so sick of the cold weather a really warm March would be nice.

Cardinals the other day. Photo by Mike Hartley

The last day of February is upon us. Not my most productive month but I’m somewhat satisfied with the effort. Hopefully I’ll emerge from hibernation soon and resume my nature shooting.

I don’t know what is on the agenda today and I’m afraid to look at the calendar or any of my to-do list. I’d like it to be one of those days where I just go with my flow and let my thoughts guide my actions.

Random Thoughts of the Morning

  • I see our lead IDIOT has now started another war we don’t need to be in.
  • I smile when I think about my grandchildren waking up and their big smiles.
  • It’s going to be an outside day today being it’s been so long since I’ve seen sunny and 63 degrees here.
  • My back hurts looking at the number of sticks and branches down in the yard that need to be picked up.


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Look

Found a small series of shots that I had bypassed before. Probably because the images aren’t the sharpest, but the subject is very nice. I believe this is a Northern Flicker but please correct me if I’m mistaken. I’m no bird expert.

If my eyes were better I would use autofocus less.

Nature photography is something that requires patience.

I still make the mistake of not shooting enough when doing nature shots. That limitation in my head from the old film days.

I love it when I can get a half decent image.

Some days I feel like this myself.

Some subjects can be so shy.

Let me lift off and see what I can capture today.

But others will give you portrait shots all day long.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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Visiting Privileges

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.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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Great day

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.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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I’m loving Labor Day

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’m having lunch with an old friend this week.


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Land, Inspect, Depart

My wildlife shots from Monday.

Landing gear down.

Check out airport.

Prepare for departure.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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Bird on a wire

It’s been a nice day. Relaxed yet productive. Enlightening and surprising. Restful and exhilarating.

Photo by Mike Hartley

We took a nice walk through Ellicott City and Oella today.

And what a nice day it was for a walk. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Good day

I was an early bird this morning. Rising well before dawn which was fine with me. I like getting an early start. But 3:15am was a bit extreme. Maybe a nap in the hammock I just put out this afternoon.

We have lots of Robins, an many more birds. Photo by Mike Hartley

The car is the first project this morning. Another coat of pollen to be removed. I hope to take it for a cruise today. Some back roads but also to the local ice cream shop for a treat.

I should do oil and filter changes on the mowers. I should do a lot of other things on the to do list, but I spent most of the weekend doing that so maybe a little fun today.

I’m feeling inspired, maybe I’ll sit at the easel for a bit and see what my mind can draw.


Random Thoughts of the Day

  • When you retire, Monday isn’t such a bad day after all.
  • I hope there is more sun than clouds today.
  • The number of people not being able to stay in their lane on the highways is staggering.
  • I think it’s a good day to take a break from the news.


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Carry out

This fella thought my freshly cut front yard was a good place to dine. After a few twist and turns, he was right.

Don’t be giving me the side eye. We share this earth.

Ah yes, back to finding dinner.

Ah, SUCCESS.

All photos by Mike Hartley


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Mug Shot

A semi productive Saturday. Had to pause earlier than I intended. One of those signals from the body that I pushed too hard. Enjoying some Final Four action. I had hoped to go out and enjoy it but taking it easy this evening and regaining my footing.

Truth be told I passed out before the second game started and I was up early Sunday morning watching the replay.

Not my favorite bird. Photo by Mike Hartley

This guy flew in front of me and landed and just posed for a minute for his mug shots.

I’m not sure I like either side. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Some days your body reminds you of your real age.
  • Rainy days used to bother me. I guess the option of not having to go out in them is nice.
  • It looks like the people are starting to mobilize. I’m encouraged.
  • I have a weakness for Easter candy. You’ve heard of Cookie Monster right. Well, I’m JellyBean Monster.
  • The con behind the curtain is being exposed.


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Song Birds

Come on big guys.  All together now!

Poorly timed chorus. Photo by Mike Hartley
Poorly timed chorus. Photo by Mike Hartley

No, I’m not crazy about seagulls screech, but each has our own voice. If you didn’t have some off key notes, you wouldn’t know what perfection sounds like.


Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Time to try harder.
  • Found this image and post started 8 years ago. As you might have noticed I’m cleaning out my drafts folder.
  • I’m beginning to wonder if this country as a collective whole is too stupid or lazy, to change the direction we’re headed.
  • We have lost power 3x today. I was hesitant to even turn the computer back on to post this and I see the skies darkening now.


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Seeing

Started the day at the optometrist early yesterday morning. All is well, except for the expected age related issues. The new glasses I got last year are still good, and I’ll see the good doctor again next year.

I love early appointments, no waiting usually, back home in a blink of an eye. A little (very little) vision humor.

Are you giving me the eye? Photo by Mike Hartley

I’m developing another type of seeing. I feel I know people much better now. Of course that comes with some risks also.


Taking a few days to pause and absorb the tragedy at National Airport. That ballet we do in the air is usually a spectacle of beauty, a choreographed dance between partners in the air and on the ground. That was not that case last night.

A day the rest of us will take for granted next year, will be the first of many painful anniversaries of this tragedy for many families. I hope they can get through the grief and remember the love and best of the ones lost.

And yes, who is the one person who could make something like this worse. Yep you guessed it.


I know where I’ll be spending one spring day in another month or two, in St. Michaels Maryland. On one of the many paths and small streets with beautiful homes, bed and breakfast, restaurants and shops. Brewery/Winery and ice cream shops.

I believe this is along Cherry St. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • If you thought you faced tough decisions before, just wait.
  • My goal is to volunteer this month. Not sure at what yet, but getting a start.
  • Having a backyard that goes into the woods allows the grandkids to have experiences they don’t see at home. It’s one of the first things my grandson does, is grab the stool and look out the back bay window for deer, squirrels, groundhogs, foxes.
  • Less TV, more enjoyment


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Early start

I’m feeling overbooked today. But, better busy than not. I’ll be back out today trying to find some color in this drab season of winter. It felt good to shoot a bit yesterday, so I’ll keep that motivation rolling.

We also have a packed family weekend ahead so shooting time will be limited. Maybe I’ll head out in the early mornings.

Here it is mid-afternoon and I’m feeling behind. Appointments made for tomorrow. Shopped at Costco this morning and came out much lighter in the wallet.

Sports Thoughts

  • The University of Maryland basketball teams have some big games today. Go Terps.
  • I’m pulling for the Redskins (opps) Commanders the rest of the way.
  • My thought is the Chiefs will beat the Bills again.
  • I seem to be turning in on a lot of NBA blowouts this year.
  • I captured some guys ice fishing this morning. Too busy to download the photos now but later today.

Cold Thoughts

  • Nail biters have a hard time of it this time of year.
  • Nobody cares how humid it is this time of year.
  • People drive with a little hole in a snow or ice covered windshields can be shot on sight.
  • If you have trouble driving on a warm sunny day, just stay home now please.
  • I had an old used Audi 5000 one year. That thing would go through any snow.
  • I rode a motorcycle year-round once. I remember being so cold once I couldn’t get my foot down quick enough to keep from falling over. Good thing, I just got home and parked on the sidewalk in front of the house so we both fell in the snow with no damage to either.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I was proud of myself for ignoring rudeness today.
  • The clown show is off to a fast start.
  • I ordered a cake so I could say “let them eat cake.”
  • Getting a haircut always feels great. Except for that time, I had my pony tail cut off.
  • I guess I’m doing something wrong, my stats are down. I’m too old to worry about numbers and that isn’t the reason I do it anyway.


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Cool Friday Start

I watched a beautiful sunrise on the Atlantic Ocean this morning from one of the webcams in Ocean City MD. There is still snow on the beach and boardwalk there. And some more on the way later today.

It’s time to trim the beard before I start looking like Grizzly Adams. Even though it does provide a little extra warmth at this time of year.

In looking at the images of the devastation in California, it has moved me to make a donation to the Red Cross this morning. Someone has to start asking the question, “should we build here” when these events happen. They asked those questions after other disasters like Katrina. I hear insurance was difficult to get even before the fires. It’s going to be impossible for anyone to get it in the future.

Other parts of the country could be in store for more events like this. The population of many coastlines are in jeopardy. And its far from the only area of the country that experienced drought.


Had a few friends visit outside my back slider door this morning. This guy had me in his sights. It’s so friggin cold out today they would sit, duck and close their eyes at times when the wind would gust. Then just as fast hop up and fly away.

If my mom were alive I could call her and ask what they were, and she would know. I did keep a few books of hers, and I think one was a guide to birds. I might have to go rummage around for that if I intend to keep posting wildlife.

Photos by Mike Hartley


I love to blog but I need to improve my content. I started off this year trying to increase the number of posts I do each day. My goal was 4 a day. I’m averaging 2.6 so far. Good thing I caught myself slacking already 10 days into the year.

The thought was the more post would inspire me to do more photography. It does but that is an additional production to fit into the day.

Time is mostly the limitation, but not utilizing my time correctly is another. I’m good at starting early and getting the first post out most days. And sometimes a follow-up one before noon. But the second half of the day, I’ve been allowing too many distractions.

I have increased communications with some people which is a good thing but it takes time. I’m also trying to read and learn more which is great, but producing at the same time is difficult.

Of course there is life which gets in the way. Doctors appointments, social visits, babysitting, appealing my property tax, insurance comparisons, to mention just a few this week.

But I will get back to my goal and at the same time try to get some better content.


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Timing

Finding my creative cycle is a rather elusive thing at times. I feel like a cat chasing its tail. I catch it and it’s loose again. Like cats it’s sometimes active at nights. Sometimes wildly so. Maybe I’ll be that cat roaming late tonight.

Too many things stopped my creativity over the last year. The supply of excuses and things that could stop me in my tracks are too endless to list. This year I’m trying to retrain myself. To let loose, to not let things stop me, to not get distracted, to not get frustrated, to not worry, to not let no or less flattering comments slow me.

Now I’m learning each day, and working longer, harder and more effectively. I’m seeing opportunities and it’s amazing and the more I see and get to work on the more that seem to open up.

The biggest thing is to just keep working even in the most difficult times I’ve learned. The holidays are always tough for me. Apprehension about medical appointments. Maybe an argument with my better half or a family member being distant get me out of sorts and I slow or almost stop.

Yes things will give me pause. Like learning about the loss of an old work friend the other day and the issues mentioned above and others, but my focus is on creating and if I’m working, I’m able to recover and regain my footing and energy.

Tonight I’m staying very busy to keep my mind from wandering down other paths of concern.

Nice camouflage. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Slowly I turn

This guy isn’t the only one looking over his shoulder. I feel very much more aware of people now. I’m getting more selective with people I trust. Kind of the opposite of the way I was brought up. Mom used to say there was good in everyone. And for a long time, I used to look for it in everyone.

Kind of sad in a way. But life changes and new lessons are learned. And I’ve learned there are a lot of people to be avoided.

Photos by Mike Hartley


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Wingspan

This Blue Herron took off and showed its wingspan.

I need a lot of things but a fast telephoto would be nice. Photo by Mike Hartley

No bird watching this Monday. I will be looking at some Miata’s later at the club meeting.

Same bird. Hard to imagine a wingspan like they have when airborne. Photo by Mike Hartley

I really changed my perspectives on Mondays when I retired.

Many types of fishermen were out this weekend on the Bay. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Baseball may have saved the game by some of the rule changes, like a pitch clock, mound visits, and pick-off throws.
  • I can never decide between Baby Ruth, Snickers, and Butterfingers.
  • Moving beyond some disappointments.
  • October is going to be a great month. At least my hopes are up for it.


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Get out

Despite the heat, I’m getting out today. Might not be the whole day but I’ll catch some rays. I’ll wait till the after-dinner hours or evening for a long cruise. I’ve been out on several 90+ degree days with the top down and it can get pretty toasty.

A stroll is always a good idea. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Heat is relative. Or is that humidity?
  • I love the song Sweet Home Chicago by the Blues Brothers Band.
  • Influencing without being an influencer is a sweet spot.
  • Like Alvin Lee and Ten Years After said long ago – “I’d Love to Change the World”
  • There was something very strange when visiting Gettysburg and the auto-tour around the battlefields. The absence of wildlife was noticeable because there was none. No rabbits, squirrels, birds, deer, or anything. With all that land I would have thought something might be out and about.


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Just chilling

Another great day of summer. The sun is blazing and I’m feeling good. I’ve picked up downed branches, and sprayed for ants outside. The decks have been blown off and the power washer is out and ready to get going.

Putting in some work on the hobbies today and making some progress. The printer was humming away early this morning. Made some family prints and a few for some friends.

Did a few hours yesterday with the top down. A bit warm but still enjoyable. If I don’t get out soon it will be too hot and then the storms roll in this afternoon.

Standing tall at the Maryland Zoo. Photo by Mike Hartley

A nice lunch yesterday with my sister and an old fellow graduate from our childhood neighborhood. It’s good to catch up with family and friends. I haven’t been able to connect with my sister much lately but trying to correct that.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • There are the most beautiful pairs of birds out back. Bluebirds, cardinals, finches, robbins, and a pair of hawks.
  • I’ve been slack making the best use of the tools I have. Too correct that I’ve made my first daily goal to make better use of the nice printer I have.
  • The difference so far here with this high heat, the humidity is low which is unusual. I’m sure it will change but it has been nice.
  • I write and blog because it makes me happy and I hope someone else from time to time.


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Best nature side eye

Okay, enough of the clickity click. Yes after I got this shot I moved on.

SideEye – Photo by Mike Hartley

Pacing myself with outside activities today. Trying to remember that doing stupid things gets stupid prizes. So what better break to take than creating a post?

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I think I’ll wait to mow till this heat wave is over because I see no sense in helping the grass burn.
  • One of the great things about my home is the nature I get to see.
  • I’m waiting for the shade to come over the hammock so I can relax some more.
  • That segment on AI on 60 Minutes this past weekend confirmed my worry that this is a dangerous time in our history because technology is getting away from us. Among other things.


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Okay

Another fresh start to the week. And what a week it will be with the heat. No problem for me, I like it warm. I’m guessing it’s no problem for these guys either, warm weather is more natural for them.

Photo by Mike Hartley

A busy week ahead is planned which is nice. Especially when it includes family and friends. I’ll be catching up with some old friends this weekend also.

Stilts. Photo by Mike Hartley

An evening to go out and do some detailing on my car now that the yard work is complete for the day. Maybe some carving after that. So let me get the worktable outside and get moving.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Good tanning weather.
  • Waiting to see some baby robbins out back soon.
  • Hard physical work isn’t a bad thing for the body as long as it’s not overdone.
  • We need to look harder at our priorities and think about the whole.


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Then right saying

When I saw this shot I thought of the saying “birds of a feather flock together.” Nah, that isn’t right. And then I thought “between a rock and a hard place.” Nope not right either. But then I remembered the appropriate saying. “Cardinals appear when loved ones are near.” And that was so true as my better half was side by side looking over the bridge coming into Ellicott City. We were watching the ducks when I saw this beauty land.

I’m not sure you want to meet who lost that feather. Photo by Mike Hartley

If you listen to the TV long enough you know there is a pill or treatment for everything that ails you. But if you listen carefully you will know that the possible side effects are far worse than what is bothering you.

Had a guy pass me on a blind hill this morning. And I was doing 10 mph over the limit. Just one of a rash of bad drivers I’ve encountered the last few days. I’m really glad I don’t have to drive in rush hours anymore on a regular basis.

Yesterday a woman was kind enough to tell me I had my gas door open as I was pulling off. I stopped and closed it. I pulled back around to thank her and noticed she was older and had a cane. I asked if I could help her and she said she had to go in to pay. So I parked, went to her and she gave me her $20 and I took it inside and said it was for the woman on pump 5 in the silver car. She had the pump in hand already so I gave her a wave and returned home. One good turn deserves another. Maybe someone will save me a few steps someday.

Had a good friend hit 80 yesterday. It gave me pause because I don’t think of her close to that age. I have trouble understanding how my friends are getting so old. Same with my kids who seem intent on passing my better half and I. This keeps challenging my forever young theory.

And life goes on.


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Sun and Shine

Wasted days and wasted nights. An old song by Freddy Fender. I wasn’t thinking of the song so much as the words. I’ve wasted a few days and nights and I’m working on not letting that happen too often.

Today will not be one of them. Work on the home and yard took a good portion of the day but I did squeeze in a few shots. This squatter (Robin) is not happy with me disturbing the nest they built under my deck. Well, I’m not disturbing the nest but the shed is nearby and they still aren’t comfortable with my presence.

My listening skills are improving. I picked up on the unhappy tone. Photo by Mike Hartley

In addition to laying claim to the deck, he is also expanding to the shed. Guess the territory is being staked out for when the young are born. And given the attitude today that might be soon.

Are you, are you looking at me? Photo by Mike Hartley

Lots of time left tonight to make good use of. So off I go.

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I sense a late night of progress ahead.
  • A tootsie pop is a test of patience.
  • I’ve gotten a lot of use out of a battery charger.
  • There it is again, the urge to pick up the pace.
  • Learning is fun when it’s applied to results. Back to the manual I go.


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Goodbye May

The beautiful month of May is history. I feel like I’m gaining more appreciation for each day and that feels special. More good times to fit into the memory banks. I’m somewhat happy with the progress of the past month and the effort expended on my hobbies. I have grand expectations for this month of June so I better get moving on them.

The sun is out and there is not a cloud in sight, just a bright blue that is only dotted by a few cardinals and bluejays chasing each other.

I’ve completed the yard work for the day and think I’ll take some photos next.

Camoflage. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • I’d like a cherry snowball today. And I know where to get one.
  • I was impressed and touched by Ken Burns’s commencement speech.
  • I see some hammock time in my future.
  • Looking forward to some help from my grandchildren tomorrow.


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Yuck

I think we all had a bad hair day yesterday. Being out and about in it wasn’t pleasant even with the right gear. Now that the rain has stopped I might have to venture down to Old Ellicott City and check the water levels and see how well that flood mitigation is working.

Hoping for a brighter day today. Photo by Mike Hartley

Then again I may wait to daylight because I think there may be some tree damage in the backyard from the winds. Even if there is there are more high winds coming this afternoon so I’ll wait for the final tally.


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Doesn’t the sun feel good

I love sunny mornings. I’ve had it with cloudy days recently. I know with the good comes the bad but today I appreciate the good we have in the mid-Atlantic now. The first real good night of sleep I’ve had in over a week was last night. One more chance tonight before I flip into Nocturnal Man again. Ops, that night of sleep looks in real jeopardy with the Lakers/Warriors on late this evening. Maybe a pre-game nap.

We look good in the sun. Photos by Mike Hartley


What is it? What is going to shock you or me into action? Maybe gun violence, or abortion rights. How about Social Security and Medicare cuts? How about no police or nurses, because we as a society have made those professions intolerable. Maybe your home is burglarized, your car stolen, or a family member assaulted and you will change our criminal justice system?

Maybe how we are killing the planet but at the same time trying to solve that problem by killing each other first by knocking on the wrong door or pulling in the wrong driveway or going into the wrong neighborhood or just running into the wrong person at the wrong time at the wrong place.

Maybe a homeless family with children who are starving. Whatever shocks you, get involved in the solutions. It’s going to give me another thing to expand upon in retirement.


We’re back and construction begins. Photo by Mike Hartley

I found another friend who agrees that gambling is the death of sports as we know it today. It’s only a matter of time before some major scandal in one or multiple leagues will bring it all down. Well, greed wins again till it all collapses.


Random Thoughts of the Day

  • Lunch break, I only take one when I’m working for myself.
  • Supreme Court – Supreme Con
  • For some reason, people feel very comfortable giving me deadlines. I think I’ve lived long enough under others’ ideas.
  • Leaving the TV off is becoming a habit.
  • This week is more time on the treadmill. If some was good, more must be better.