THREW Mikes EyEz

Original Writings, Images, Video and Artworks of Mike Hartley


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Cruise

It might not seem like the time to take a cruise for cruising’s sake but that is how I roll. Just like a lot of others I see out on nice days with cars and motorcycles that don’t see the light of day unless it’s nice outside.

Personally, I just like to drive. I usually head west or north because the back roads are better and there is less traffic. This month looks like the start of the good weather. I’ve got to detail the outside and leather interior. I did all the carpets and nooks and crannies last weekend.

A person riding a bright orange motorcycle trike on a street, with a sign for the Gaylord National Convention Center in the background and colorful flowers alongside the road.

I still look at motorcycles with envy. A corner of my brain still says I can ride fine, buy a bike. That is the corner of my brain where I keep most of my delusional thinking stored.

Plus, I’m still fine with my little convertible. And I don’t have to wear a helmet.

Going for a drive sometimes clears my head. I’ve always concentrated on what I was doing when in the driver’s seat. Driving a stick always is a more active driving experience. Plus, I prefer country roads, no shoulders so you had better pay attention.

For the next 6 months this region is full of car shows. That is a cruising community. So are the clubs of just about every brand there are. I know our Miata club meets monthly and there are rides through various parts of the region and autocross events. As I’ve gone to more shows and meets, I’ve seen a very active community.

I’ve also seen some boneheads that can ruin it for everyone.

I wonder what if any effect these gas prices will have on altering anything. If I were a betting man, I’d say yes and no. It’s all a matter of resources. I run 93 octane fuel, and I pay through the nose for it. Will it affect any of the local shows (within 50 miles) I go to? Not in the least. Unless I notice a lot less cars entering the shows.

Will it affect the big shows in Ocean City. Maybe a bit because people come from greater distances and that could get costly, even if you’re towing your monster down to the event. From what I saw this weekend it didn’t put a dent in attendance.

With premium over $5 a gallon, those of us on a budget might start to get squeezed a bit. But if this was my main hobby, this wouldn’t stop me from being there this fall.

A classic yellow hot rod car driving on a suburban street on a sunny day.
Milner is still cruisin in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley


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Tuesday Takes

What a morning. Kind of inspired and depressed, energized but sore, upbeat and apprehensive. Guess it’s the kind of start we all go through. At least I don’t have to get my ass in gear and report to someone else and deal with that morning rush hour.

I have a best friend toying with retirement. It’s not that he doesn’t enjoy what he does. He’s good and successful at it. And he loves a challenges and that job is filled with them. I think he is just tired and like me sees a lot of people our age and younger no longer with us or experiencing life changing issues.

All I have to do this morning is move beyond this back pain and I’ll be right as rain. I wish the sun was out, but I’ll make do.

I’m going to have to spend some more time in the driver’s seat. It’s going to get cool and the top-down days are numbered. The rear wheel drive and manual trans along with tires that are suited for summer tracks, it won’t be seeing many winter excursions.

Maybe that dry day or two in January or February where it might hit the mid-50s, I’ll take the cover off and go for a spin with the top down, the heat on and the seat warmer on high.

I’ll be looking for the sun tomorrow from this position. Photo by Mike Hartley

Random Thoughts of the Day

  • My granddaughter smiled at me yesterday. Gives me power to keep going.
  • Is the military coming to your town or street soon?
  • I’m learning carving and etching requires a steady hand and patience.
  • Looking forward to some grilled steaks this evening.