I won’t wait for winter to end to visit the Eastern Shore of Maryland again. One of these days I’m going to have to eat crabs out on the deck at the Crab Claw restaurant in that red building across the water here.
St Michaels along the Miles River. Photo by Mike Hartley
St Michaels and Easton have lots of good spots to eat and I love walking both towns. Speaking of walking I need to get on that treadmill today and make up for the slack effort put forth on Sunday.
But the ocean calls and I’m going to start a countdown till I’m sitting at the bar at The Wedge watching the boats go in and out the inlet while eating a crab flatbread and a cold beverage.
My better half and I stopped here and loved it. Great place to sit, eat, drink and enjoy the view of the inlet and Assateague Island. Photo by Mike Hartley
But today I’m also working on sorting out inputs to get control of. For instance, I can stay well informed while not getting overwhelmed with politics. So, I’m reading more and watching less TV.
Getting back to listening to more music as I work and exercise is a good feeling again. I got so away from my norms in December when under the weather. They feel that much more special as I resume them again. A reminder that health is everything.
I’ve got one appointment I’d like to avoid today but that wouldn’t be smart. So, I’ll knock that out and return to the office and easel and work hard this afternoon and evening on my passions.
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.
Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you? – A kind of upbeat question from the daily writing prompt.
I had to think for a second about if I play in daily life. But only for a second or two and then I smiled about the little things I do that would be considered play. Like sneaking up behind my better half. Trading barbs with friends. Taking a few minutes to look at some cartoons from artist I follow or a comedian and laugh.
Sometimes I’ll play at being a plumber, electrician, carpenter, landscaper, mechanic. Sometimes successful but most of the time I come to my senses and call a professional.
Many might say I play at my hobbies all day. I play little games with myself to keep me motivated.
What says “Playtime” to me, is my grandchildren. When they come running to me and grab my hand and take off running saying “play with me” I almost lose my mind with happiness. My grandson wants to ride the tractor each time he visits. He’ll grab me as he gets out of the car and lead me right to the shed.
My granddaughter gets so excited with the sprinkler and splashpads when it’s warm. And of course, one of her favorites is playing Diner with us. She makes up signs and sets up a restaurant and announces her opening and we have a meal. Or she’ll run down the hallway yelling “draw with me” as she ducks into my son’s old room which is “the drawing room” to her.
Ah, play, yeah, I play. But I still think back to when I was very young, and we could play all day outside. That was play. Sports, building forts from woods, riding bikes, skateboards, sleds, tag, ping pong, and every board game known to man.
Those days were cut short for me. Maybe that is why I’m so happy to be part of my grandkids play and fun.
Beach Volleyball in Ocean City MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
Sometimes I feel a bit off step with others. And I’m fine with that now instead of being self-conscious about it. We each have our own beat and lyrics.
I marched to others tunes for so long I’ve had trouble getting in step with my own. But going into the new year I feel different. Could it be it took me two years of retirement to unwind and get back my own path.
No more stealth mode or hiding my head. Time to throw it to the hawks or against the wall and see what sticks or is devoured.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Can’t believe I stayed awake to see the New Year in for 26. Still young in mind even though the body may disagree.
The daily writing prompt asks – What are your biggest challenges?
Challenging myself and then getting out of my own way. Staying motivated and making the best use of each day.
The challenges I see are the ones in front of me each day now. If I choose to devote the energy and resources to the task or goal. I used to make things more complicated but it’s really pretty simple. I just need to do the thing.
And then move onto the next thing. And on and on. That’s when challenges become fun, because you’re in a rhythm and what was once a challenge is routine. And new challenges present themselves and your appetite for them just grows.
Glad my teeth are still up to the challenge. Photo by Mike Hartley
I don’t make resolutions, but I do take the beginning of the year to refocus, renew efforts, rebalance or start over. And then of course it’s always wise to maybe drop things that weren’t productive or fun.
Coming off being sick for a bit this month I feel especially inspired. So, I’m off to enjoy the last hours of 2025.
Physical
In 2025 I got off to a strong start regarding exercise. Spring and Summer were active and even early fall, but after that I fell off the table and got slack. Grade for the year C+. So, I fired up the treadmill earlier this week and that will again be my daily companion till the weather warms. I’ve also decided not to measure distance but in time, walking, jogging or lifting weights.
Photography
This will be my primary focus. I believe the saying goes practice makes perfect. I’m going to set aside 3-4 hours a day minimum to shooting and editing. More if possible.
I could fill a post with just things on the list to learn. My own equipment to start with. Lighting and different aspects and areas of photography. Like more street shooting and many more.
Then there are the printing goals and building out the photo site on Zenfolio.
There are several projects I hope to attempt both shooting and presentations.
Writing
I hope to Chime In on many topics for the coming year here in the blog, but I’ve got to get going on the books I started to write. So those two will be competing for my time all year.
Nature plays these. Photo by Mike Hartley
In terms of my written communication, I will probably continue to keep the pace I have now. I write to my children a few times a week. My friends fairly often and even extended friends periodically.
Arts
Well, if I’m increasing time spent on my other hobbies I might as well declare that here also. And given I did more drawing and painting in the last few months of 25 than anything previously I might be on a roll there.
Food
Oh yeah, I love to eat. So, you will see me sharing those great meals more often. And I’m committed to getting in the kitchen more often myself.
Focusing and Results
Lots of ideas and weak execution. Time to change that dynamic. I’ve been enjoying the flexibility of retirement and maybe spending time on the wrong things.
A Happy New Year to you and wishes for good health and happiness in your lives.
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.
What makes you feel nostalgic? – A fine question for the last day of the year from the daily writing prompt.
In no particular order.
Talking to very old friends. Talking to old friends I’ve worked with for decades. The smell of ink. The smell of newsprint. The sound of a press. The sound of a newsroom in action during a crisis.
The sound of my grandchildren playing and realizing they’re no longer my children.
Seeing the church, we were married in. Driving into the neighborhoods we grew up in.
Hearing any V8 roar to life. Any classic car, the smell of high-octane fuel being burning. Any V-Twin cranking up and that roll of the throttle on exit.
Seeing my wife’s face today and seeing the same girl that said yes to my proposal many decades ago.
The feel of sand between the toes. The smell of Thrashers french-fries and steamed crabs anywhere in Ocean City.
Seeing hundreds of photos on my office walls of history with family and friends.
Oh my, I couldn’t forget about music. The number of songs that make the hair on my neck stand up or dance like the Blues-Brothers. The notes that make me throw my head back and do a windmill on the guitar. Knowing and singing all the lyrics to many songs going down the road. There is also a drummer in this body dying to get out.
Seeing our first home/apartment complex. Seeing our first single family home.
Arlington National Cemetery.
Having a snowball and each time feeling like it’s the first one I ever had. The sound of bells from the ice cream truck.
Family Xmas ornaments that have been passed down or accumulated over the decades.
The sound of a basketball bouncing on a driveway and off the backboard or through the net.
The backup at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Walking the boardwalk.
Oh, so many pictures and movies and memories of pets passed.
My 50th high school reunion.
I guess the older you get the more nostalgic you have.
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.
The first day of winter is today. That is a bunch of bull because it’s been very cold for weeks now if not 2 months. And now we are headed for the coldest month of the year, January in Central Maryland, and I’m depressed.
I hate cold with a passion, and it’s been too cold already. The only time it’s appealing outside is when there is snow covering everything. Otherwise, it’s grey and drab. And that eventually turns to slush and mud. My negative attitude about this season will only start to dimmish in March.
So, in a few months I’ll start to turn the corner and get back to my normal self and my open hostility towards the season will fade and my morning smile will return to start each day.
It would be nice if winter started and ended on the same day. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
I read the last living survivor of Pearl Harbor passed. Made me think of my Uncle Frank who was aboard the battleship West Virginia that day.
Suggestion to the NFL. If you take out the team’s QB with an illegal hit your QB should have to sit that game.
Looks like the clown imitating the president who wants the Noble Peace Prize is about to get us into a war with Venezuela. Nice work bonehead.
I’m glad I don’t live in a neighborhood with a HOA.
I don’t need the Epstein files to know that Trump was deeply involved with him and those young girls. What would you expect from one of the most vile creatures on earth.
Time has flown by the last two weeks, and I have little to nothing to show for it. I haven’t touched a paint brush, and the cameras have been in their cases for the most part. The energy needed to be in my workroom just wasn’t there.
I’m good at writing to both my children very often and that was on hold for two weeks. I just got back in that grove yesterday.
I haven’t seen my best friends in almost 3 weeks now and that this about the longest we have gone this year or more. I haven’t been out to see any holiday decorations and experience shopping.
Yesterday I got started by hitting the grocery store with my better half. But boy did that wear me out. Got a good night’s rest for a change of pace so I’m on a mission to accomplish a lot today.
Building bridges to better health. Photo by Mike Hartley
If you are a senior citizen, please take this new strain of flu called Subclade K seriously. It’s nothing like what we have had for years, and we are pretty good at dealing with the ones the flu shot has covered previously. It’s the first time I’ve thought about going to the hospital in years and has changed my future perspective if I get that sick again I will.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Republicans – defending the indefensible.
The heroic actions of the people who tried to stop the shooting rampage at Bondi Beach are remarkable and should be honored. I hope that if faced with a similar situation I will act in that way.
Verizon service this year after the new equipment install has been piss poor – Bet it’s not just my Opinion.
People who consider themselves so smart are pretty good at accepting lies each day.
Pardons for some of the vilest creatures on earth seems to be this presidents cup of tea.
Describe a man who has positively impacted your life. Not a bad ask by the daily writing prompt.
I have a very good friend named Pete who early in my professional life probably changed my future accent. He did that by instilling confidence in me. Something I severely lacked at the levels I was moving into.
We started off at a company together in the early 70s but worked in different areas. We worked very hard and saw that in each other. We also had some talent and insights on how to do things better in a changing profession.
We gained huge skills and knowledge working for this company and it was our life. And then the ownership sold it into pieces and tore it all apart. Luckily, we were picked up together by the new firm. I think there were about 70 openings for over 400 people who worked there.
We quickly rose over 2 different areas of production and ended up in management roles in addition to our technical and production duties. You wore lots of hats in the old days. But the time together over 2 decades gave us great opportunities and great growth.
But we had a ton of fun along the way. We worked for a very progressive company and were surrounded by people who also believed in us, and we took that organization through several significant technological changes and much success over those years.
I can’t even begin to describe the pressure and fun we had at the same time. As all good things do, this came to an end, and we decided along with another partner to start our own business. We were successful in starting something that no one thought would even get off the ground. Bigger businesses tried to crush us. It didn’t work.
I went another way, less than two years into it because of personal reasons but that business under him and our partner was very successful for another decade till it was bought out by a daily newspaper.
Even though we separated professionally we have always stayed close. Really, he gave me many more things than confidence. He gave me friendship, support, laughter and guidance in life. He is an incredible human being and one who is very special to me.
He is one of the most quiet but effective people I have ever worked with. He is smart beyond any degree, certificate, certification. He is compassionate and funny. He is a family man, he is an ethical man, and one of the few people I hold in admiration.
Pete has been and still is a lifelong friend. Someone I consider a brother. Yeah, we are close.
Thank you, Pete, for all you have done for me over so many decades of my life. Love ya brother.
The building behind this car is one we started our business together in beautiful Ellicott City Maryland. Photo by Mike Hartley
Is your life today what you pictured a year ago? – An interesting question from the daily writing prompt.
Apart from trying to recover fully from this nasty flu bug my life is how I could have pictured it a year ago. A beautiful new granddaughter entered our lives this year. The family is healthy and surviving some troubled times.
Some friendships have changed a bit. Some up and some down. Time will do that. I’ve greatly enjoyed working on my hobbies and I need to do a lot more in that regard. I’ve enjoyed taking rides to where the car points its nose, instead of destinations for work or chores.
I feel like I’ve done a fair job regarding my health by keeping my weight in check, exercising a little more and trying to eat better. That last one still needs a lot of work.
I am surprised how quickly age is affecting my body. Been dealing with a lot more pain this year than previous ones. But hey, I’m getting up, able to love, think and pursue good times.
I had no idea our government was going to break down is such a dramatic fashion though and while I had fears of it, it’s worse than I thought and getting deeper into the darkness day by day. I will fight to change this. I didn’t anticipate spending so much time on this, but it’s now for my children and grandchildren not to leave pieces of crap like our current administration in power.
The daily writing prompt is asking – What skills or lessons have I learned recently?
I’ve been learning some brush techniques while trying to paint. Today I hope to learn how to photograph interesting things in my own home, being I’m not 100% and don’t want to go out in this cold for fear of catching pneumonia.
I learned that dealing with companies AI phone systems is a very frustrating experience. I’ve learned that age does affect your ability to fight off illness.
I learned that what came about to create WWII is possible again. When people won’t stand against corrupt power.
I’m working on skills to improve my writing and photography.
A little color on a grey morning. Photo by Mike Hartley
Even though I’m retired Monday is still a kickoff day. One that I tend to get organized and formulate a plan for the coming days.
Unfortunately, I was still less than half. A complete lack of energy has set in for both of us. A friend said he spoke to another friend who had this for a month. I’m only about 11 days into it and it’s a slow go. Last night I learned my granddaughter is ill with the flu and I’m hoping my daughter doesn’t come down with it.
At least I’m up in the mornings to catch sunrises on webcams till I can get back out and shoot the real ones. This one is from my favorite spot overlooking the Howard County Conservancy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Tis the season they say. With the joy comes the viruses we love to hate. All I know is I don’t want to be sick again this season so I’m going to be masking up when in crowds till spring.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Only Trump could make the tragic deaths of the Reiner’s about himself in the sickest way possible. What a piece of crap. He and the clown show need to go NOW.
When will this country grow a spine and get gun control enforcement that reduces our children being killed.
Verizon really pisses me off. Trouble is all the alternatives seem to have the same number of pissed off customers. Oh yeah, this AI crap when we call to speak to someone, has to go.
I’ve had enough of the cold already, and we aren’t even into the first day of winter yet.
The daily writing prompt is asking me to – Tell us one thing you hope people say about you.
I try hard to be a good person. People will always say what they want about you. And I’m sure all of us have people that might say good and bad. I’m far from perfect.
Recently I was feeling a bit down when a very old friend wrote to me and said the following to me which really pulled me out of a funk.
There is a guy I follow on YouTube who reminds me of you. His name is Sean Stockman, Midlife Stockman channel. The reminding me of you part… not so much in looks (or age, lol), but in his kindness and need to take care of people.
He cleans up overgrown and ill-kept properties in the Detroit area. Watching him… his mannerisms, the way he talks to the audience as if we are helping him, the way he divides the property in sections and completely finishes each section before moving on, the way he takes time out to chat with folks passing by… I always think of you. You (and Sean) are the good guys.
I was thinking I didn’t matter much to people. A very selfish thought because life isn’t about me, but what I can do for others. She snapped me back to reality and made me feel so good about myself again. I thanked her very much obviously for sharing that though.
Nothing could make me happier in life than to just be remembered as a kind and good man.
Out on the Floridian, a smile on my face and loving life. Photo by our departed friend Capt. Dan McMullen if I remember correctly?
Sorry I’m late getting into the holiday spirit. Now that I’m feeling better, I’m going to dive headlong into the season.
Photo by Mike Hartley
The season means a lot of things to me. It’s changed quite a bit over the years. There are many things and people I miss from my past. There are new things like the grandchildren to help fill those voids. There are my own children who each past Christmas are etched in this brain.
Some seasons in the past have been difficult. The pressures of having the right gifts, being able to do all I hoped and feeling like I’ve come up short.
From a very young age missing someone important each year was very hard. More so in watching the impact on my mom and sister. Mom made heroic efforts to make sure our holiday was good, but it always came with her tears and cries, no matter how hard she tried to hide and muffle them. I could see the longing in her eyes, missing her husband. The loneliness she tried to push down was just below the surface.
I also remember her refocusing some years later and the times she would load the car with crafts and gifts and decorations to take and make Bethesda Naval Hospital a festive holiday scene in the units she worked as a Red Cross volunteer. She really got into it. Making so many things by hand. I wish I had a sliver of the artistic talent she had.
I can remember her telling me stories about some of the patients. I think she always looked at these servicemen as an extension of what she lost and could help. She was active in the VFW Woman’s Auxiliary for years also and would do holiday things for them for some years. But she really got into the Red Cross work.
Makes me think I should get more involved in helping others this season. There is no such thing as a effort too small or too late. Sometimes the smallest gestures or gifts mean the most to some. Think I’ll start by making a donation in Mom’s name today to the Red Cross.
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.
Yesterday broke my 484 day consecutive posting streak. I just didn’t have the energy to get out of bed and to the office and decided discretion was the better part of valor.
Today wasn’t much better but I’ll take any improvement at this point. I can’t wait to fully recover and enjoy the holiday season. So today starts a new effort at consistency.
Hillside, Headstones and Wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery
Thought – I’ve been watching some of the news on that drug boat strike and the call to kill the two survivors of the first strike. My father was a Hospital Corpsman, which is the title now but I think it was Pharmacist Mate during that war and changed afterward. He served on a destroyer in the Pacific in WWII, in Korea and on Operation Deep Freeze.
I think he would have been appalled at the crap being peddled now by the clown show in office. Killing defenseless people is wrong. Of course, I could also imagine him being disgusted at the ass kissing our President does with the Communist leader of Russia.
I can’t help but feel the current people are putting so many of our service members in harm’s way. Not only that, we are all less safe with this incompetent leadership at the helm. Trump and Hegseth have proved they will throw you under the bus in a heartbeat, so the military leaders and law enforcement are going to be quickly faced with a number of very difficult decisions. Are you going to follow orders of a lying malignant narcissist and a news host, or are you going to do the right thing.
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
It’s one of those stages in life. When you’re young you go to a lot of weddings. Lots of friends. Then a pause and then a few friends second weddings or some older friend’s kids weddings. Then a pause and then it’s your own children’s and friend’s children’s weddings.
I never have done wedding photography but occasionally at some weddings I’d try to get shots at different angles than the wedding photographer. Photo by Mike Hartley
And now another pause. Maybe a permanent pause. It will be a good number of years before the grandchildren are even grown or dating. Neither of my parents saw my children married while my wife’s parents were alive seeing both.
It’s one of those things I think about now as I looked at my granddaughter on Thanksgiving and wondered if I would see that beautiful smile on her wedding day. That would be something.
Life is so unpredictable. I’ve wasted time and not taken full advantage of it at times as we all do. I’m taking moments in more deeply now. I appreciate each time I see family and friends. Each event, trip or adventure and even phone call.
On this morning, where the temperatures are in the freezing range, it’s hard to think about taking a dip but that is exactly what I thought of when I ran across an old shot of my long-gone pool. I should have used it more when I had the opportunity.
It’s been gone for quite a while now. But I still miss it. I got the most use out of it in the family. Rightly so, because I spent the time keeping it clean and open and closed. With a little help from my better half at the beginning and end of each season.
But it seemed like I spent more time maintaining it than enjoying it. And the saying that they are money sinks is true. It was there when we purchased the home. Well, let me rephrase that, it was a hole in the ground with a ripped liner and things living and growing in it and out of it. Some of the concrete backing had cracks, it had an oversized pump that blew out the small filter system and landscaping that looked like it hadn’t been landscaped. There were some beautiful azalea bushes and a weeping cherry tree. A fence in bad shape and a falling retaining wall. Oh, the thin concrete walk around it was surrounded by pea gravel.
What a mess. Built a retaining wall, thousands, in pool repairs, more concrete, new fence, new filter, remove planters and tree because they made a mess of the pool. Removed the gravel and added concrete and then removed the water and filled it in. The life and death of a pool.
The question of the day is – Are you more of a night or morning-person?
For a while there I was both. I worked an overnight shift and would stay up till mid morning.
Now I guess I’m more of a morning person if the morning starts shortly after midnight. I tend to rise well before the sun but enjoy that part of the day the best.
Kicking it to sunrise. Saw this couple on the beach getting some action in. Photo by Mike Hartley
I usually wait till the month of December to start hanging lights. Truth be told, mostly the second or third week of the month. Not this year, I started unboxing them yesterday but didn’t really hang any.
Today though, there are lots of lights to hang. Some years when I was working it was a chore. Now it’s a lot of fun because I have the time to do it and not sacrifice something else. I remember this feeling last year also. Another thing retirement has changed perspective on.
I can’t wait till they are all hung and evening comes so I can turn them on.
I’m not a huge fan of this month. It’s cold to start with and my hostility towards cold knows no bounds. It’s a month of people under enormous pressure, which can lead to some erratic and unpredictable behavior. Just go for a drive if you need proof.
It’s a time for families which is very difficult for a lot of people. Some are missing and mourning family members that have passed. Some are separated by great distances and can’t be together. Some are brought together but don’t want to be.
Some could be but chose not to which can be hurtful to others. Increased stress leads to poor decisions and bad habits. A troubled year could weigh more heavily as things are recounted again. Financial uncertainty looms over many.
Being it’s the first of the month though I’ll bring it around to some positive possibilities. I can’t wait to see the kid’s and grandchildren’s faces on Christmas. The month will be loaded with great food. I’ll try to bring a bit of relief to those who are stressed with a smile and laughter. I started yesterday sending a good joke to one of my best friends who’s always stressed.
Tomorrow is Giving Tuesday, and I have a list of donations to make. I didn’t get out to support Small Business Saturday, but I will be out spending with local merchants this week. I’m got a ton of people to reach out to with heartfelt holiday greetings. Maybe attend a Maryland basketball game.
And if I’m lucky, that any snow we get will be easy to shovel away. Welcome to December, glad we all made it.
Damn, another week down. And how do I know that. I have to refill the daily pill container. I started off the week real strong, but haven’t finished that way. But overall progress in fixing a few problems, making progress on my photo site and blog, working on a painting and carving along with some chores around the house.
I’ve done more reading than usual, watched more educational things than entertainment and as I look around the office I’ve decluttered some.
Could I have done more, yep, no question. But sitting here early on a Sunday morning I feel good about the week behind me and the chance to finish strong today.
Even though I’m not heading to the job tomorrow I still like looking at a week by week accomplishment review. I guess it’s engrained in me. I used to do nightly reports of events and a nightly report to the manager/director of my tasks/progress and weekly turnover reports to the next shifts and management for decades.
I consider a week a huge amount of time, but they go by in the flash of an eye. Things come off the to do list and things go on the to do list. Weeks we get to see our children/grandchildren are special. Weeks we don’t, we miss them and it seems like a period much longer than a week.
Weeks are no longer broken down into the workweek and weekend. They are one continuous thing. And that is nice. Especially when they are peppered with days without obligations or plans.
I’m getting better at looking at each day as at least a partial success. Finding small milestones to keep me inspired. I might hit a milestone later today, if I finish this book.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Watched sun break the horizon over the Atlantic and then peek behind the clouds and create a great orange with bluish grey clouds, with orange and yellow highlights. Each one is so unique. Except the rainy ones.
Strength through adversity. Or is it strength from adversity? Or both?
If I see snow this morning I’m going to cry foul. It’s still November. Update, we have sleet.
Getting some Xmas lights hung always puts me in good spirits. I might even pull the artificial tree out and assemble that. The real one will come next weekend. Don’t you just love the smell of a real tree.
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.
It’s going to be the coldest it has been in a long time today. I’m going to hibernate inside and listen to that wind howl outside and not feel it. I think I’ll make it rather tropical here today.
Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s nice and toasty here already. I had the space heater on for a few minutes to take the chill out of my office and now I’m in better spirits already.
Standing outside was so crisp and clear out for the few minutes I could tolerate it. Barely a breeze earlier around sunrise, but strong gusts are coming they say. Think I’ll go get the cover off the car before trying to do that in the wind later.
Hope everyone was able to have a nice feast yesterday. I’m guessing the word of the day is leftovers. My son hosted yesterday, and it was a wonderful gathering. A relaxed one and they did a great job with the food.
Soon to be filled with food again. Photo by Mike Hartley
We will all belly up again in less than a month and maybe have a few more at Christmas time which is now a very short time away. Despite that I’ll skip shopping this weekend.
My better half and I have an unexpected free weekend. She is cooking a turkey today, we had ham yesterday. Lots of leftover stuffing to devour which is no problem for me. They don’t call this Feast Week for nothing.
Pick up the phone and call a loved one or friend today, that can’t be with you. Don’t forget those with empty plates. Be safe, have a great day. I have sports to watch, grandchildren to play with, food to eat and family to hug.
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.
Looking forward to a good Monday. Think I’ll get a haircut. That always makes me feel good. I was a bit lazy creating new work this weekend, but I did get a lot accomplished in terms of some fixes, housekeeping and organizing.
It’s a huge sports week and I’ll enjoy some of those events. The first one is the Maryland game that starts at midnight tonight. Yeah, they play the late game out west.
A great sky today. Photo by Mike Hartley
This is going to be a great week. Just made some plans to see a show we’ve wanted to do for some time now. The ICE Show at the Gaylord Hotel.
Working on some other travel ideas for next year and making plans with my better half. Those river cruises are sounding attractive.
I’m a bit of a homebody though. I better snap out of that shell before I can’t travel.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I see Giving Tuesday is a week from tomorrow December 2nd. I think I’ll start a week early with a donation to the food bank to catch the Thanksgiving need.
I wonder if Vegas takes bets on the lawsuits Trump brings.
The founder of Pappas Restaurant passed. They have my vote for best crabcake.
Naps are cool. If they aren’t your sleep.
RFK Jr. is going to be responsible for people dying needlessly.
Who are your current most favorite people? – There is a question loaded with landmines. The thought of leaving someone out hangs over this reply. So, I’ll go with this answer.
The people that keep in touch with me. The people that tell me they love me or I’m a good friend. The people on the street I don’t know, that give me a smile. The people that hold a door for me or let me merge on the road.
The people fighting hard, for my rights and freedom. The people that keep me informed with truth and facts. The people that encourage me and are honest with me. The people that take care of my health.
The people that brought me into the world. The people that run up to me and say, “Lets Play Papa.”
I think that about covers it but I still have that feeling I’m leaving people out.
Don’t be alone, find your people. Photo by Mike Hartley
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.
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.
I had the pleasure of living in Howard County Maryland before the city of Columbia was built. Since then, it’s been this uneasy balance with me. It’s been one of opportunity and fun. It’s provided new friends and new perspectives. It’s also brought a city to my country setting which I struggle with.
This statue of James Rouse, the developer whose concept, design and plan were put into action and realized.
I’ve watched it grow from the first lake, first neighborhood, the mall and Merriweather Post Pavilion. The addition of roads, schools and homes grew into the rather large city it is now. It catches a ton of grief but if I’d developed it I’d be pretty proud. It’s not perfect, very few places are. In my mind it got too big.
If it had stopped expanding outward, things would have been better. It started eating too much of the old county. Huge mansions in exclusive neighborhoods, office parks, strip malls and developing every inch of space possible that is near it.
It’s unfair to blame the amount of growth on Columbia alone. They county officials for many decades now have catered to developers and many have gotten rich from this. Resources have been strained along the way and still are today in areas.
Notice the one yellow tulip between his shoes. I didn’t do that. Photo by Mike Hartley
It is a desired location for people. And has had a ton of employment opportunities. Diverse communities and recreation and resources galore. If the spoiled people who live here would stop complaining about it, the place would be better yet. I think they overlook how fortunate they are. I’m not against complaining about legitimate problems but jeez, things get petty quickly in that city.
Anyway, I don’t know why I even went on a rant about Columbia. I just found two shots of the Lakefront with the statues that I hadn’t used before, and I didn’t do any new shooting yesterday or even download the shots I’d taken from the day before.
Get your Ducks and Dragon in a row now. There are only 43 days left in the year and much to accomplish. There is so much I hope to get done this year. There is a lot of time to work with but it’s also a very busy social time of year.
A lot of people do end of year round ups, or best of. Some assess the yearly accomplishments or lay the foundation for next year.
I’m just going day by day. I’m not into judging what I think my best work is. I’d rather concentrate on trying to create it today because it’s a never-ending pursuit.
Assessing goals is a private matter. There are so many factors, ups and downs, changes, additions, deletions along the way not to mention all the personal stuff in between that has impacts. I already share enough imperfections here, I don’t want to list them all.
I’m not hung up on stats or subscribers. I do love the comments and likes from those who interact here and I thank you for taking the time. I do like to see how many posts I can make and how many words and new images I add.
So, here’s to another day of blogging, some painting and I’ve returned to doing some stone etching. I’ll have to put that one away when the better half goes to bed this evening.
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.
What’s your favorite month of the year? Why? – Hell of a question from the daily writing prompt.
Any month it’s warm or hot. Any month I can put the top down on the car. Any month the snowball stand is open. Any month we take a long walk on the boardwalk.
Any month that has my children’s birthday in it. Any month that has my better half’s birthday in it. Any month that has my grandchildren’s birthday in it. Any month that has my parent’s birthday in it.
Any month I’m not in a doctor’s office or hospital. Any month I’m pain free. Any month I’m taking better care of myself. Any month I could get a decent night’s sleep.
Any month our wedding anniversary falls on. Any month of my best friend’s birthdays. Any month I get to attend a grandchild’s school function.
Any month I’m knocking out new paintings. Any month I upload a few hundred new photos. Any month I keep up blogging. Any month I make progress on my book.
Any month our love for each other comes through. Any month we survive on the highways. Any month we have a family gathering. Any month we have a boy’s weekend.
Any month there could be peace in the world. Any month people don’t go hungry or homeless. Any month we all could stop talking about it and do something about it.
My favorite month is this one because the next one is never promised.
Here is a place you can spend a few months getting better. Photo by Mike Hartley
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.
It’s never just another day. Unless you want to look at it like that. I find each one unique and special in some way. Even the worst days. It’s my own fault if I don’t learn something or find something special about the day.
Just trying to brighten the day. Photo by Mike Hartley
Trying something new. Not being afraid. Taking a chance. Living, it’s great and it’s tough.
The flip side of life and not finding those special moments or parts of each day is remarkably easy when feeling down or troubled. They are ignored, overlooked, bypassed or not attended or answered. And that is a shame because we don’t get those back.
I’ve wasted time myself stuck in ruts. Age gave me some wisdom and that helped me avoid some, but I still go off road occasionally and get stuck.
Random Thoughts of the Day
With the fire warnings out, I won’t be lighting the firepit tonight.
I like pizza in the morning. Not all the time but occasionally.
I’m going to do something out of the ordinary that I’d like to make routine. I’m going to pick up a book.
There are few things better than a day without obligations other than to yourself.
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.
The daily writing prompt asks – What’s the first impression you want to give people?
I hope that I appear friendly on first impression. I like meeting people.
Figuring out what impression I give is another matter. You will have to judge that for yourself.
Impressions can vary on a person’s day. Catching someone after a traumatic event or low on sleep might give you an entirely different impression than seeing them at a party or meeting them on the job.
I’m not one that is trying to impress people for the most part.
One of my favorite quotes I keep on my wall to the side of my desk.
There are two types of people – those who come into a room and say “Well, Here I am” and those who come in and say “Ah, there you are.” Frederick L Collins.
I’d like to think that I’m the one that says “Ah, there you are”
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.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? – An interesting thought to fantasize about from the daily writing prompt.
This morning my thoughts took me to Fenwick Island, Delaware. Right on the shore and the town borders my home state of Maryland so I can be right next to all the things I love. Trouble is that it is still too far from my children and grandchildren so it wouldn’t work.
It’s a beautiful small town of maybe 400 people on the shore. Very walkable and friendly. A slow pace of life and wonderful views.
Fenwick Island Lighthouse on Delaware Maryland border. Photo by Mike Hartley
What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever found (and kept)? – Asks the daily writing prompt. In my answer last year, I focused on some seashells in a post called Things Kept
This year I’ll share another thing. In going through some of dad’s things many years ago after he passed and I found two postcards that I keep over my desk. They were addressed to me when I was barely a year old. They were from my dad when he was in St Albans Naval hospital in New York.
My mom must have tucked them away after he passed. The ink is fading badly on one. It’s one of the few things I have with his writing to me. On the address he wrote out my full name with middle initial. But started the card with – Mike, this is your first postcard. I love you and your wonderful mommy. Don’t get in bed with Mommy. – And he signed it, Jim.
The second says – Dear Mike, Daddy is thinking of you and hope you are being a good fella for your mommy. Kiss mommy and little Lorri for me. Be a good little boy and lots of love. Dad
I’m not even sure why they have come to mean so much to me. Maybe it’s the time we didn’t have when I was an infant and toddler and then at 9, he was gone. The time we had after that was the most difficult time in his life. And that is saying something being he grew up in the depression, enlisted in the Navy a year before WWII started and was also in the Korean War and went on Operation Deep Freeze.
I know postcards don’t sound cool. But to me it’s kind of special, sort of like a connection to him from the start.
I’ve also found several ribbons and medals and photos of his years in service. But I found an old box also that I believe was his father’s because it had things from WWI in it including a Purple Heart.
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
I was more apprehensive of what was possible than confident. I used to fear that all the time. Both success and failure or just being mediocre. Now that I’m finally comfortable with myself and don’t allow what others may think affect me, it’s the kind of freedom I haven’t had before.
I’m me, a man of many flaws and imperfections. Probably not that talented or insightful. I’ve been told there are a few good qualities also, but I’ll let history and others be the judge of that.
So, as I sit before the keyboard before dawn in my dark office I see a day filled with some smiles and laughs. Some chores and work. But also, one where I’ll spend time picking up the camera, paint brush and Dremel tool.
Oh crap, a doctor’s appointment. That puts a damper on things, but we will have a good time till it’s time to go.
Light it up. Photo by Mike Hartley
What I’m enjoying now is a journey that I’ve looked forward to for some time. The end of one career and the beginning of the one I thought I’d pursue when I was in my early 20s. At least doing it this way I won’t be a starving artist. I’ll just be an artist.
But boy, what I missed doing. The lost time and opportunities that might have turned into a career. No time wasted though on thinking about what could have been, just what I can do now and getting to it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There is a lot to be said for saying nothing in some situations.
My hair still stands on end when I hear the start of Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
After Tuesday’s cold I can say with confidence that I’m not ready for Winter.
I can hear my mother saying don’t give up on this or that person. I guess that resonated with me when she was alive.
What part of your routine do you always try to skip if you can? – Asks the daily writing prompt.
I can’t think of a thing I intentionally try to skip in any part of my routine if I can. The best I can think of is that occasionally I won’t mow the lower backyard that goes into the woods as deep as I do other times.
If it’s your routine, why would you try to skip it. My hobbies are part of my routine. I can’t imagine trying to skip them. Maybe exercise but again I don’t try to skip it or any other part of what I like. It’s just time constraints or feeling poorly.
Unfortunately, I sometimes skip making the best use of my time. I used to skip school but that was a very long time ago. I miss skipping rocks on the water like the kid in me did.
I skipped a financial seminar last night to attend a University of Maryland Basketball game. Yes, they did win and I say that now because I’m not expecting a ton of them this year.
I’d like to skip the coming winter and proceed to SPRING.
Sometimes I skip the daily writing prompt, but not often. I would have liked to have skipped this question today.
Looks like he is thinking of skipping surfing today. Photo by Mike Hartley
Taking a chance is something we all do each day. Most of the chances are small ones. The big ones though, those are the stressful ones. Some people get exhilaration from taking chances. So run something up the flagpole and see if it flies.
People making a million-dollar stock trade might seem like they are taking a chance. But it’s probably less of a chance than an individual deciding which bill not to pay or if the family will go hungry or without heat or having a car repo’d or even worse a foreclosure because they haven’t been paid in a month.
I’m not going to even get into the life and death chances we all take every day. Like getting into a car and having a dump truck run you off the road because they can’t stay in their lane. Yeah, it happened to me on the way home today.
I took a chance to start a business once. It was a wonderful experience even though it didn’t work our for me. It did for my two partners though.
A chance was taken when I asked for her hand in marriage.
Picking a medical treatment or surgery and taking the chance, that is the cure.
Life is a chance. A chance to explore, experience and embrace.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Now might not be the time to fly.
Lying to yourself is the first step in lying to others.
The Military, the National Guard and Police all have important decisions to make shortly. Will they take up arms and use force against their own population at a peaceful demonstration?
The economy is the same as it’s always been. The have’s are happy and the have nots aren’t. The thing that has changed is there are fewer have’s and a lot more have nots.
New school, a digital picture frame on the desk. Old school, hundreds of pictures on my office walls.
A man who needs monuments, ballrooms and accolades for himself, is not a man.
Well yeah, most all the football was played over the weekend. But this kickoff is a new week and new energy. Good Monday morning. The weekend party is over and priorities shift. Yes, even for those of us who are retired.
A very productive week is planned. Tons of tasks and chores to attend to, but all those make life possible. I hope to get back to my 3-4 posts a day after yesterday’s pause to a lone one. And that means I will be out shooting more to provide these grey posts some color and activity.
The warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Photo by Mike Hartley
Wishing I was in a warmer climate like this shot I took in Florida a number of years back. It won’t get out of the 40s here today in central Maryland. I’ll still be out and about trying to capture something special along my steps.
Yesterday caught up with me in a number of ways, and plans for second half of the day were washed away. Starting off with a lack of sleep and followed by hours of physical work and a good meal and I was asleep probably before the second football game of the day ended.
I’m feeling that physical work from yesterday, with the power washer. Seems like an easy tool and is. It’s the positions you get into with it cleaning whatever it is your cleaning that hurt. Usually, your head is pointed up or down. Sometimes, your hunched over or up on a ladder balancing yourself with a gun that is providing kickback.
It’s a fun job. I’m getting proficient at it. I’ll be taking it back to my son’s home next year for another round. But that is another piece that is now stored away for the winter unless we get a usual heat wave.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Way to go, Maryland Men’s Soccer team. Undefeated Regular Season.
I call this my formal season. I wear suits often. Sweatsuits that is.
Ah another betting scandal involving another sport, Major League Baseball. The trouble is that sports won’t ever admit it was a mistake to get in bed with gambling.
I like the quote “Change is slow, until it isn’t” by Roger Spitz
Instead of naming the most expensive personal item you’ve ever purchased like I did last year in a post titled – Material Crap – as the daily writing prompt asks, I’ll answer this a different way.
I’ve learned early on in life that material things didn’t equal happiness. I believe our parents instilled that in us. My better half and I are on the same page most of the time. We just don’t spend much on ourselves.
I’m not really hung up on material things. We get our value out of purchases and always have. I also try to fix and repair things when possible.
I have a hard time even looking at expensive items except for curiosity of what expensive stuff really costs. And what’s the old term? If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.
Being satisfied and happy with less than the most expensive items is cool with us.
Traveling down Frederick Road mid-week I looked to my right after passing Manor Lane and the field in the distance was becoming invisible with what looked to be thick white smoke. I made a right on Westmount Pkwy and found this.
Something faint, in the distance.
Ah, the beast reveals itself.
Chopping up old corn stalks.
I guess it’s been rather dry here. Sure did look like something was on fire from the road a mile or two away from here. I guess he’d been at it for a while.
What a crap shoot staying healthy is. So many variables are in play. We do our best, see our doctors, listen to their advice.
Sometimes there are good seasons and difficult ones. We get most all the preventive shots because that is what our doctors recommend.
We go out to eat, we travel a bit, have family gatherings, go to public indoor events in the winter season and are probably exposed to just about everything. Sometimes we catch it, sometimes not.
Time to time we help our children with their children. For instance, my better half picked up our granddaughter from school because she had picked up something and wasn’t feeling good. Something we have no problem doing and are always there for them and glad we are.
We are careful. I wash my hands a lot. If we travel this season, I’ve thought about wearing a mask on a flight.
But it’s really a crap shoot. The wrong spot, the wrong time, the wrong contact. I hear several things are going around already at schools.
I’m not going to obsess about it. But I am more cautious this time of year. I hate being out in the cold anyway. Except seated or standing near my firepit.
So, step up, do your part in keeping yourself and others healthy. And care for those who aren’t as lucky.
Looking up some old steps on Court Avenue in Ellicott City. 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.
How do you manage screen time for yourself? – A very important question for many of us because that balance in life is so important.
To me it’s not the screen time, it’s what you do with your screen time. I limit my screen time with the phone to an hour and I’m working on getting that down.
I do spend a good bit of time on the computer because it’s a tool for my writing and photography. I also use it for some enjoyment and reading is my main source of news and events.
Manage it, before it manages you is my advice. Especially with children.
Look away from the phone and love your pet or each other. Photo by Mike Hartley
I told Nature it was going the wrong way and to see the sign below. I’d like a return to summer please. Winds this evening won’t be ushering in warmer temps. It’s going to be about 10 degrees cooler tomorrow.
I’m glad I took a cruise today. Even though it was cloudy for a good bit of it, the sun did make an appearance.
Everyone was out and about enjoying the upper 60s.
Like the herd of sheep in the lower left corner.
I should go back tomorrow and see if there is anything left on this tree.
I had intended on getting the firepit going today but with those winds coming that would be foolish. Maybe another day.
It bums me out to bring in the hammock and frame in for the winter. I should set it up in my basement. That wouldn’t go over too well.
You know how you get a feeling at times about something going wrong. I’m thinking we might lose power this evening. I hope I’m wrong.
I’ve shot two photos that I was about to throw away recently. They taught me an important lesson. One was a shot of leaves on the tree in the backyard. The other a landscape/cloud shot.
I zoomed in to see how sharp the focus was on the leaf shot and saw a hornet resting on a leaf in the tree. Maybe waiting for the sun to thaw it out.
I had already zoomed in at 200mm to get the full shot below this cropped one. I thought it was odd to zoom in while editing at that point and see it when I hadn’t noticed it in the full shot.
It’s just to the left of center.
The next image was on the same day looking from my deck through the backyards of my neighbors. I was looking for a cloud shot and almost threw it away when I looked at the sky and wondered what was that flying.
It appears to be two large birds, and my guess is they are fighting over a meal. In editing when I really zoomed in on the wide-angle image, there was something long below them, my guess a snake. I doubt they would argue over a branch. If it was a kite I would have seen it suspended a while. Plus, our street and neighborhood are all big trees so you fly it you lose it.
These two images taught me today to look more closely at what I shot and to pay more attention. I could have zoomed in more on each of these if I was looking closer, taking my time, and gotten something worth keeping.
That was one busy day. I haven’t seen my to-do list that long in a while. Good thing I got an early start yesterday. My better half helped with many of them.
I tried my hand at some watercolor painting yesterday morning in between posts and some research early before sunrise. I’m going to get back to that piece this morning.
Took care of several other scheduling logistics. Had to pick up sticks before mowing. Also cleaned out the shed and stored some more summer tools and furniture. Some of which is on its last leg. I picked out one chair to go to the dump.
Just a few branches from the oaks after those winds. Photo by Mike Hartley
Looked at another task and realized the quote from Clint Eastwood in a few of his movies was appropriate for the situation, “A man’s got to know his limitation” so I called a plumber.
Everything is cut and trimmed but the lower back by the woods which I’ll knock out today. I’m making this the last mowing of the season. Congrats to my old John Deere for making it through season 27. I think the day is coming and that machine will fall apart like the car did in the movie The Blues Brothers.
I’ll wash my car and maybe detail the interior this morning. There is a club meeting on Sunday, so it better be presentable.
Sometimes when you pass what has been a bland view before, something new catches your eye. Photo by Mike Hartley
I have to call Verizon about a problem with FIOS for the 3rd time in a few months for the same issue. I’ve had to calm down for a day or two before calling them.
I don’t why they haven’t caught it because after the second time they said they were putting a network monitor on it. I guess that aspect of their technology needs some perfecting. My first thought was to do my John Wick with a sledgehammer impression and pound all their equipment into dust. I resisted that urge. I took another day to practice not cursing at them.
I think I’m ready to call them and give them a try at a 3rd strike. That is if they want to start by cancelling next month’s payment because I feel I’m working for them and not getting paid and paying them at the same time.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I wonder what the RUSH tour will sound like with a new drummer.
Each time I trim my beard I think I should just let it grow and enter the best beard contest.
Angus and Malcom can wear out a pair of speakers.
Batten down the hatches, it’s going to get windy later today in the northeast.
What will your life be like in three years? – Deep question from the daily writing prompt.
I read last year’s answer to this same question and it was my idea and dream post called Life Plus 3. And after year one we are on track with most of that.
Today though, I’m not thinking that far ahead. I’m trying to live in the present as much as possible. Decisions and actions we take or don’t take today and tomorrow all factor in on that 3-year projection. And so many things could happen between now and then that may be out of our control.
It’s fun thinking long term.
Triple the Pleasure. Photo by Mike Hartley
Those used to be some of my favorite questions for people when I was doing performance reviews. It’s especially good for young people to think about. We would talk about short term/yearly goals in the meeting but near the end I would ask where do you see yourself in 3-5 years and then in 10 years?
It was fun watching people respond to that. Some at those younger ages hadn’t thought beyond getting out of a review alive. Others might talk about a personal passion. I had a couple guys working for me whose dream was to be a musician.
I know one of them did get their wish. He is very successful (David Sitek). Worked for me at Patuxent Publishing Company as a photo reproduction tech.
It’s good to evaluate those long-term goals regularly. They do change over a lifetime.
My goal in the next 3 minutes is to get something to eat. In about 3 hours I’m going to catch another hour or two of sleep. In 3 days, I’ll see my son and grandson. In 3 weeks, the house will start to fill with the smells of Thanksgiving prep. In 3 months, I have a important doctors appointment. That’s as far as I can look ahead this morning.
Should you spend your life in search of enjoyment? Why not, it’s your life, enjoy it. I’ve always tried to enjoy my professional work and with those around me. Yes, it’s work, and yes it’s tough and demanding at times. That doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed.
Enjoyment comes in so many ways. Some will work their butts off to help or support others to enjoy life and get a lot of joy out of those efforts. Others spend their life focused on self-enjoyment and are very happy.
Enjoyment can look very different for people. Some may find great enjoyment in just lying in a hammock for a few hours, while some might consider that a complete waste of time and want to play sports for enjoyment.
Blowing into town. Photo by Mike Hartley
The types of enjoyment are so numerous I won’t delve into all of them. I will say I learned late in life that I should enjoy it more. I got too caught up in the small stuff.
So now I’m more relaxed. Still have as many struggles going on, if not more, as when I was younger. Dealing with them but not letting them dominate life or take away its enjoyment.
Earlier today I did a post about doing more street photography but being nervous about shooting people. As you can see, I’m easing into it with the above shot.
I have to work on my street photography. Trouble is that I like the country. And yes, there are streets and people in these small towns but nothing like the type of city shots you can get like when I visited NYC once.
Also, I’m not real comfortable photographing people. Something I must overcome and soon because I like street shots. It’s photography I really enjoy seeing others work. I think I’ll take a stab at it more this month.
If the sun peeks out this afternoon, I’ll see if I can capture anything left of the fall colors that didn’t get blown away the last few days.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Seeing young kids ride bikes reminds me of that joy.
Watching rain at the beach just doesn’t seem right.
I’m feeling good about this week. I don’t have any doctor’s appointments.
Decided to employee some help. The team of me, myself and I. They all need a swift motivational kick in the ass today. Look for more results today.
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.
Gazing out into darkness waiting for the sunrise. The last warmth of the season floating away like the leaves. Daylight is getting shorter and now the time change tonight creating more issues. The first thought is an extra hour’s sleep tomorrow morning. Then you remember you’ll be driving home in the dark from now on.
A colorful place to rest on Main Street EC. Photo by Mike Hartley
But forget all that nonsense. I’m just looking forward to today. We got a little visitor coming to make our day exciting. And with some sun and temps around 60 we can be outside a bit.
Later I’ll get the firepit going and we can make some smores. In between I’ll share my love of art with her and I’m sure she will want my help building another fort around the house.
In between I hope to sneak in some photography and a few posts today.
So, coach, get my behind off the bench and get me in the game. Have a good morning, all.
Is there an age or year of your life you would re-live?
Sometimes I answer these questions without looking back at my previous year’s answer. Or when I do go back and look, I build on that answer with new information gathered over the new year. But when I went back and looked at my answer to this question it gave me pause.
Last year’s short piece titled Re-live was about going back to the year before my dad died to get a lot more stories and information from him. To have life not changed so dramatically after his passing.
If I had to choose again, I guess I might re-live last year. In some ways I felt like I wasted some time adjusting to retirement and didn’t take full advantage of it. I should have been doing a lot more.
Families doing their own portrait work. Photo by Mike Hartley
The sound of my children’s voices. The feel of warm Atlantic beach sand between my toes. The taste of a cherry ice cream soda. The running hugs from grandchildren. The convertible top down and wind in my hair. The sunrises and sunsets. The warmth of my space heater on a really cold night.
The view from the kitchen bay window looking down into the woods. Running to “drawing room” with my granddaughter talking about what to make. Sitting on the front porch with a snowball after mowing the lawn.
My grandson’s big eyes and broken attempt at saying tractor which he wants to ride again with me on each visit. The good morning hugs from my better half. Stepping off the treadmill after the last mile of the day. Watching my children walk down the street after being dropped off by the bus.
The high fives after a Maryland basketball victory with friends. The smell of a rose from a plant my mom gave us. The feel of a favorite shot coming off the printer. The sound of snow hitting my jacket as I shovel.
Opening my back door and seeing 6-8 deer grazing along the tree line. A warm summer breeze and clouds moving briskly across the sky as I lay in a hammock. Looking at my better half in her favorite chair with a good book.
Drying the last water spots off my freshly washed car. Putting the fully charged cameras in the bag and heading out the door. A good report from the doctor.
Catching up with old work friends. A bird landing on the fence a few feet from me and not noticing me sitting in the chair while grilling some burgers.
The feeling after making a charitable donation. Hearing one of my favorite songs. The taste of chocolate.
Finding a family memory. Seeing a block of wood turn into a carving. Getting a letter or email from a loved one. Opening the front door after being away from home for a few days.
Seeing a crabcake and a medium fillet sat in front of me hot from the kitchen. Raking a big pile of leaves and remembering jumping in them as a youngster. Hearing a big V-Twin motorcycle go by and remembering the days I rode one.
Jumping into a pool on a hot summer day. Seeing a drawing come to life. Finishing shoveling the driveway after a big snow. Watching a hummingbird feed.
Sitting by the firepit. A tight series of corners in the Miata. A live concert. Embracing my better half. Making friends laugh. When the power returns after an outage. A large Ledo Pizza with bacon.
And many more things make me smile. So, I’ll keep adding to the list as long as possible.
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.
What’s something you believe everyone should know. – Rather presumptuous of me to project what everyone should know. Like I have a good grip on life (NOT). But what the hell. Here it goes.
Intermediate – Learning is lifelong. Love is hard and painful at times. Life is hard and painful at times. Unless you are in a very small percentage, you will have to work hard in your life to have a chance to succeed. Your body is a special thing, respect it. You only get one.
Advanced – Trust and respect are earned. You alone are in charge of how you feel. The richest people aren’t really the richest people in life. Live some of your life like there is no tomorrow, because one day there is no tomorrow. If you go outside today without an umbrella you’re going to get wet.
Oh yeah, if you eat too much Halloween candy tomorrow, you’re going to feel like crap on Saturday. But some of us will do it anyway. That’s the kid trying to come out in you.
I used to know how to work on cars. But age prevents me from getting into positions in, around and under the hood that used to be possible. I don’t want to get stuck like this guy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Wishing isn’t a bad thing if you follow up with actions. Even having wishes that you put off and somehow come back to, and you make real. I feel that is what I’ve embarked on now. I put off my desire to be an artist when I was 18 and started my career in newspapers.
Now retired I’m getting back in the swing of trying to be a photographer, writer and artist. None of these things I did in my paper career. I worked in Engraving, Press, Publishing Systems, IT System Administration / UNIX Admin and System Analyst.
I got to see a ton of great work by very talented photographers, writers and artists. It served to further intimidate me throughout my career to pursue those areas, even in my own personal space.
But I started to pick up the camera more as I neared 50 years of age. I found that pleasing family with shots and myself was enough for me suddenly. When I started blogging, I also added that if I could bring joy through and image or thought or perspective to even 1 more person, than that was special also.
I don’t have to make a cent off my art or writing or time now. But the thought of having to make a living as an artist at 18 was almost unimaginable. I was also waking up to the reality that I wasted my high school years in several ways.
But one thing high school did was to cement in me was my love for art. I think I took it all 4 years as an elective. The teacher was and still is kind of this inspiration. Each time I hear The Beatles music I think of him and how his art class just put my mind and body at this peaceful ease. It also touched a creative desire in me. It is what I took in my one and only semester in college.
I know I’m not artistic wonder. But I’m trying to learn and create something that my family might treasure down the road or even now. That is why I’m excited to work with my granddaughter this year and beyond if she has the love for it that I do. And hopefully with my other grandchildren also.
So out of this computer chair and into another one by my easel.
I hope to do a little work at the easel this fine Wednesday. So, I guess I should put up my own “Wet Paint” signs.
Photo by Mike Hartley
A little work with some watercolor is in order today. I’m not sure I’d call it work yet. More like trying to remember some techniques I knew and forgot long ago. Maybe it will be like riding a bike. Maybe not.
I’ve never worked with acrylic or oils. Could be a future interest if the brush work appeals to me again.
What got me inspired again was seeing some pieces by an old co-worker Robert Lewis, who does some beautiful work.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
I wish the rain would wash away the current administration.
Making wise decisions would seem like a wise move. Till we mix in human nature and screw it all up.
At the end of some days, I think there’s a bunch of Unwanted Posters, with my picture on it, that I somehow missed seeing but not feeling.
Another chance approaching to see if I can remember turn the wall calendars on the right day.
Having multiple professions in the future might be needed. If AI takes one, you have a backup.
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.
To those suffering from that MID-LFE crisis, I salute you.
I’m not living in the past but trying to keep that youthful spirit. I’m too old to have another midlife crisis now anyway. At least Google tells me I am.
The idea of confronting mortality though does bother me. It’s a driving force for me now to accomplish as much as I can each day. Not that I know anything imminent. Just that I do know we don’t live forever.
Saw this at the car show in Ocean City Maryland a few weeks back. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s painful for some to look backward.
I’ve got to work of my prediction on when my former daily newspaper will stop printing them.
People need space. Some need a lot.
If only I could take advantage of all the opportunities in front of me today.
We stopped at Leelynn’s for lunch yesterday. The spot of the former Allview Inn. Leelynn’s has never disappointed and it didn’t yesterday. We each had some cream of crab soup, and I had the mahi mahi tacos which were great. My better half enjoyed the seasonal salad.
And I think this is a first for us there, we got a desert. We don’t usually do this but I saw this Brownie Sandwich on the menu, and I had no idea what possessed me to order it, but we split it and finished it. Two warmed brownies, ice cream, whipped cream and some strawberries and chocolate fudge.
No, I’m not sorry I ordered it. Photo by Mike Hartley
I could have never eaten that whole thing by myself. We skipped dinner Saturday night.
Lots on the agenda today so we had better get a good breakfast this morning. I hope you all are off to a good start this last Sunday in October.
Working on being a better gatekeeper of my time and realizing how important that is. The better I am at it, the happier I seem to be. I allow myself to get sidetracked too often, but I’m working hard on being a finisher.
I was proud of myself when I saw my screen time on the phone to 1 hour a day last week. That is my goal to stay under that each day. And I’d like to get it down to 30 minutes a day max in the future.
Making my gate stronger than this one. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m reducing my TV time and spending some time on the treadmill while watching.
Focusing and concentrating on important things is the key, even when you get tired or distracted. Returning to the mission, not getting discouraged and finishing what is started.
So let the good things pass the gate, proceed past the small pond and continue the path along the wood line. Success is out there someplace.
Fall colors are starting. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Yesterday was very relaxing.
Weather forecasters are really good about telling you what it’s going to do in the next hour. See you can find something nice to say about someone if you try.
A good day is when you speak to all your grown children.
I wonder if a movement to support a federal worker is needed. The people that are responsible for managing them certainly are failing.
I didn’t do much shooting yesterday, but I did a ton of editing and uploading. I need to reverse that today and take advantage of the color outside.
