I love spending time near or in the water. But that isn’t where the job that pays the bills is so I’ll be putting that enjoyment aside for a bit.

I didn’t make my goal of a few solo day trips to the ocean this year. Only one in fact but that is better than the year before. Next summer won’t have work interfering with opportunities to head East to the Shore.

The last week of summer is upon us so make good use of it. I hope to catch some rays today. Of course, some of that might be behind a lawn mower.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I hear it’s going to be a breezy afternoon. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if that smell of the saltwater air made it this far inland?
• Do you ever get so hungry when you are really tired and you think about the time and energy needed to cook something and just go to bed?
• I’m on a mission to take a good photo today.
• 25% of my workweek is complete before most people get out of bed on Monday.

A beautiful Saturday morning is upon us in the mid-Atlantic. A little cool for my taste but it will warm up quickly.

I love being up before sunrise on my days off. It’s a good inspiration to begin anew each morning.

I have grand plans for the day. Some woodwork this morning. Maybe a few chores and then kicking back the rest of the day. Hopefully, I’ll capture some of that later in the photos.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I watched a video of my grandson’s first steps over and over. I can’t wait for the next time I see him and he takes steps to me.
• Many lessons can be learned by listening well, having your eyes open, and being honest with yourself.
• I need to be a better finisher. I’ll keep saying this till it takes hold of me. Too many unfinished projects.
• Find things to be proud of in life. It makes the journey much happier.

Pull up a chair and relax a bit, it’s the weekend and we all deserve a break. Then again if you have a two or three-wheel vehicle you should report to Ocean City Maryland if you haven’t already for the mecca of roaring V-Twins.

Yep, it’s BIKE WEEK at the shore.

The sounds of the waves are replaced by the roaring of Harleys and a few other brands. So much so that if you aren’t a biker you will be a bit put off by the thunder of the thousands of bikers in town. Then again it’s quite a show even if you’re not a biker.

I gave up my seat on the bike a good while back. I was tired of all the close calls, some health issues, and limited riding seasons here. I’m no wimp when it comes to weather. I rode a bike year-round for a year. Snow, ice, and all of it. I was so frozen once I couldn’t get my leg down quickly enough when I got home and almost dropped.

And while the seat of my Miata with the top down at the beach is my favorite, when I see the bikes I get a yearning to ride again.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Yesterday I made my granddaughter happy. We made crafts for her Mom for hours.
• Listen to some comedy and laugh. Go to a club and laugh. Or at least smile and laugh.
• Life should be the practice of learning to live better and be happier each day. And then make those lives around you better.
• I found a pair of sunglasses I’ve been looking for.
• Contemplating life is fun. Living it is much better.

I had lunch with a very important friend today. We met many decades ago at work. But it’s one of those relationships that just became very special. I think of her as a sister. We hadn’t been able to catch up in a while so it was very good to bring each other up to speed again on our lives and dreams and all the things we find humorous which is quite a lot. As well as the tests and difficulties we all experience along the way in life. We share a lot.

It was near the end of our long lunch that I saw something I hadn’t seen in her for some time. I saw that spark I used to see at work that would ignite such energy, enthusiasm, and insights within her that just spilled out like a tsunami that would inspire those around her.

We might have walked out of there together embarking on another journey and joint effort to create something special. I know I’m excited and came home and worked on some more ideas. Then again life may overtake us. But I have a feeling this one might move ahead. Time will tell.

Who knew such a cloudy, overcast, drizzly day would turn out to be such a ray of sunshine? It has kind of inspired me with a few more creative thoughts for my own projects.

Had a great lunch at Carrol’s Creek Cafe today.

Not going to worry about yesterday and the uncomfortable thoughts a memorial service gave me. Not going to think about tomorrow and the return to work. I am going to make good use of this day.

Oh, to be on the Eastern Shore of Maryland this fine day. Maybe next week. I’ll have to hope my friend sends me a text today with a photo from Kent Island.

But first, the yard needs cutting. Hope everyone is having a good morning.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I hope I can do something special today. Either for someone else or creating something good.
• Remember having to say “present” when the teacher called attendance. Ops, may have just dated myself. I have no idea why that popped into my head and provided today’s title.
• Finally felt like stretching and some morning exercises helped the back after many failed attempts at the same thing the last two weeks.
• These last two mornings have been unusually cool for August.

I find if I look at all the things I should be appreciative of each day, the things that didn’t go right or that I didn’t have or didn’t experience don’t mean all that much.

I’m trying hard to get my body right. I don’t know why it’s giving me such a hard time lately. It’s a better week than the last one so I’ll take small victories.

My better half has returned from her mini vacation with my daughter and granddaughter. I guess I’ll have to keep the music down tonight.

The weekend will start in about 10 hours. Life is good and after work tonight, I intend on getting to it.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• How do you not like a photo of a child smiling?
• Don’t worry beach, I hear you calling me. I’ll be on my way soon.
• Walking into a spider web outside is frustrating. Walking into one inside really frost me.
• I had a hummingbird fly up to a couple of inches away from me while sitting on my porch. Those things really do hum.

I rave about the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but the central and western parts of the state are quite beautiful also. Twisty back roads with cornfields as guardrails dotted occasionally with farms. And the further west you go the elevations start to play a wonderful game of can you top this view.

We loved going out to Rocky Gap, Frederick, Hagerstown, and Cumberland. We have done it far less than the coast but that might change. I love the roads out west. Less congestion and once past Frederick, less rude drivers.

Even though I was running an errand it was great getting out but chores called and I responded. Tomorrow is another matter altogether. Another warm sunny day that I plan to pretty much spend outside enjoying myself till it’s time for work.

I’ve got to drop some photos off with an old friend, maybe hit the county fair and have a good lunch out.

I’ll have the time to grab a lot of images, maybe even get the Dremel tool outside and create some dust.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I hope to do things that make me smile all day tomorrow. Well, at least until work starts.
• My daughter got me a gift card for my favorite sub shop. I’m going to have to fast a little bit before going there for the steak and cheese sub.
• OK, everyone in Maryland, a big cheer for the linemen/women on the job fixing everyone’s power.
• I try not to get mad at the job taking so many hours away from all the things I love.

Finally getting back on track here. I blotted out the pain last night and slept a bit. So here is to a productive and happy Friday. Even though the weather is dreary here in central Maryland this morning my spirits are high.

I never knew the joy of a convertible till my purchase of the Miata in 2016. I will never own another hardtop again. I so wish I had discovered it earlier. Then again a lot of years on the motorcycle were probably why I didn’t think about the need for a car with the drop top.

Powder Blue is the name of the color that pops to mind. Photos by Mike Hartley

I think my better half has fallen in love with the convertible aspect also. The top is rarely up when I’m out and about with it. I have road a motorcycle for a lot of years but never without a helmet. This is sort of like that without the hat.

In some ways, it’s still like riding a bike. A small car gets only a little more respect than a bike. And sometimes a blast from the pipes on the bike would be enough of a warning. But in a small car without those young man modifications like superchargers and headers, it’s just a matter of being seen.

Now that ride in the pictures is one that would get some respect with its size and bumpers.

Time to charge the batteries because there might be a few minutes to squeeze in some shooting today. I’m hoping some blue sky’s come out to play sometime today.

I’ve never been to The Globe but I know we are going back to this wonderful town on the Eastern Shore.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Everyone should be taught compassion for animals at a young age. It (compassion) transfers to people as we get older.
• We get to hear from the new VP this coming week. Will be interesting to get his visions.
• There is a winning moment every day.
• That was a good Thursday night vigil last evening with my best friends.

Let’s start the week with a splash instead of going into it with trepidation. My 4-year-old granddaughter just reminded me through a few photographs of her at preschool this morning to go forward with both confidence and conviction.

I guess it was wildlife day and they were discovering snakes and turtles. She confidently held the both while her classmates seemed to be hesitating to get near. I’m so glad they get exposure to creatures that we should be sharing the earth with. And I’m glad to see her interacting with nature.

As a youth, my friends and I spent a lot of time outside. Every day outside and being this was a rather rural county at that age we discovered many snakes, turtles, and other wildlife all the time. Building forts in the woods, walking through streams and creeks, climbing trees and hills. And doing it every season.

Then someone would get a football and a baseball and basketball and we would still be outside all day playing. Just about all of it was a pickup with neighborhood kids with a small part being organized sports.

I know my kids got a lot less of that than I did even though we had woods behind our house. We didn’t have the modern distractions they had. Not that they didn’t get outside, it’s just a different era of play and technology. Just like it will be now for their children.

So I’m moving forward with confidence and conviction today. Glad to see some things carrying on and thinking about how I can do my part to give them some of the older experiences I had.

It’s time to get lost in some music. Lots of it. Music from long ago that revives the young man in me. Like plugging in an EV for a charge, music does that for me.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Thinking I should call my sister today.
• I miss having my own pet. I’m going to go do some time at the shelters when I retire.
• Insurance – I’ve realized (too late) that insurance has become like employers. You got to move around if you want the best deal.
• I get tanned pretty well working outside in the summer. But the best tan I like getting is when I’m not working and soaking up the rays.

I hope to incorporate a ton of shooting this weekend. The job that paid the bills throttled that effort for the early part of the week but I will not be denied now. Scheduled time with family and friends will fill out a great time in the next few days.

This has been a pretty good summer so far but as one of my best friends would say “It’s time to turn it up a notch” so here we go.

There are a lot of celebrations in June and July. The family vacation is during this period. Lots of fun indeed. But this coming month and next a few trips to the beach alone, not with family or friends. Not on anyone’s schedule but my own.

Not in a bulky SUV loaded to the brim. I’ll be traveling with the top down instead of the hardtop roof, the music of my choice on the stereo with a volume more to my liking. A change of clothes in the trunk (glove compartment) of the go-cart (Miata) a beach towel, my cameras, and a few dollars for food and drink.

A little under 3 hours to cruise each way. It was a little much on a motorcycle on some hot days but in a car it’s no problem. I’ll leave before sunrise. Maybe early enough to catch the sunrise at the ocean, but if not to see it coming up as I cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

A quick breakfast at Bad Monkey. I’ve been wanting to hit this stop because I heard it’s good and they have their own bakery. Then spend the morning shooting around town. Hit the beach for a few hours, shower and change, and do some more shooting. Hit the boardwalk for a few things for the family, do a little cruising (sorry it’s an old habit I never broke), head to Fagers Island for a light dinner, and watch the sunset on the bay from the deck or gazebo.

Then point the car back west and home. I’d like to do a few more trips and shoot Assitique Island, Bethany Beach, and Fenwick Island. So let me get planning when all this is going to take place otherwise another summer will get away from me.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Isn’t anticipation great?
• Work hard with the tools you have. Many have achieved greatness with very little.
• I’ll drink water, but I’d rather have a Coke.
• I think see food might be on the menu tonight. If I see food I’m going to eat it. At least a crabcake.

“Two the point” is what I thought of when I saw this shot below of the two roofs. Then again, I’m tired and punchy so it’s probably a bad pun.

Another great day is upon us. One filled with new tests and challenges. I guess I was due for some more significant ones. Things had been going smoothly so life exerts its balance and throws a few wrenches. I’m also thinking about a loved one very much today.

I had a chance to grab just a few shots of the Boordy Vineyard while there for a birthday party. A very good place for an outside event and beautiful grounds. I’ll have to return to this area for some more photographs. I was so busy photographing family and children I didn’t get much of the place. I also heard some nice comments about the wine. I’m not a fan of the grape unless it says Nehi on the bottle.

I believe there are a few vineyards in the area of Hydes Maryland.

Tomorrow I venture out locally and grab some shots in Howard County.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I have a 100% chance of being right that it is National something or another, day today.
• The wheels of justice turn slowly. But turn they do. Or at least that is my hope.
• I wonder if I can cram 3 days of work into one?
• Hoping for peace of mind for someone very important.

Whatever floats your boat can be found at the beach. I know I’ll be pointing my car east to Ocean City again soon. One of these sunny midweek days. Leaving before sunrise and returning well after sunset. Just a day alone in thought and with the cameras. A few hours on the beach after I wear my feet out walking the town. A couple of light meals, an ice cream soda, and then watch the sunset from a bay establishment.

As I was laying out on the deck today feeling the light breeze the only thing missing was the sound of waves and laughter of children. That sun was warm but felt great. It relaxes me and my racing mind slows to a comfortable leisurely pace when out there alone.

I haven’t picked up the camera as intended yet but have been a printing press for the family. I was surprised my daughter took all the photos I had of them. Usually, I overwhelm them with prints. I’m glad it will give them memories.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I caught some rays, played with my granddaughter, had a snowball, and was able to help someone. It’s been a great day.
• Last workday (night) of the week ahead. Life is good because the weekend is here again at 6 am tomorrow.
• I’m sure there was a very good reason behind some of the madness in my life.
• My granddaughter found a picture of a rose my mother had taken. I liked the way she admired it intently and asked if she could have it. Of course, I said yes and told her who took it.

Knock out the difficult tasks early, and the rest of the day is a cakewalk. The fewer things I move around my to-do list, the better I’m doing. I’m trying to do more things that I’m not sure if they will work or not. But it helps to move my boundaries.

After being off for a while and living a normal schedule, flipping back to a night shift is physically and mentally rough the first night or two. And then it gets really difficult.

Making progress breeds more progress. Change things up. Rearrange the office. For instance, I have been in a rut making a number of 4×6 prints. I saw a couple I liked and a couple more and I’ve made many 8x10s in the last 24 hours. My kids are going to need a bigger house with lots of wall space. I’m running out of it here.

We tipped very well this past week while on vacation. Every place we went did a great job and I appreciate that service. I also saw people on very good behavior for one of the most crowded weeks of the year at the ocean.

One thing that again caught my eye was the trash. This town and community take pride in keeping this place as clean as possible but for some unknown reason, some of us are just PIGS. Come on people, don’t litter no matter where you are.

A blog on unique homes in Delmarva gave the following description of what I finally photographed below. –

This home on 78th Street in Ocean City is unique because of the observatory on the roof, added by the owner of the property in the late 1980s. At that time, a 16-foot-long refractor telescope with a 12-inch lens was installed, which was then one of the largest privately owned telescopes in the country. 

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Mmmmm – grilled corn.
• Painting a new picture to progress.
• Instead of trying to find the path to success, forge your own.
• Hopefully a less costly solution to a big problem with take place tomorrow.
• Time for another overnight shift.

Peaches from Wright’s Market. One of our favorite stops on the way home from Ocean City. We also picked up corn, preserves, nuts, dressing, and a few other things that will leap to mind later. It’s loaded with good things.

It was a wonderful drive home from the shore and only minimal backup before the Bay Bridge.

Fulfilled

A wonderful week of vacation at the beach with the family was good for my soul, my tan, my spirit, my appreciation, my taste buds, my need to be a fish, and a few photos.

But most of all to be a father and grandfather for some dedicated time. To share my good fortune and love. To get beat the first time and of many more to come at miniature golf by my granddaughter.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• It’s difficult to work at an unfamiliar desk.
• I thought my old John Deere was going to give up the ghost today but it recovered and the property is looking good again.
• I love being away. I also love being back home.

While on vacation the negative things that affect me during the normal workweek seem to disappear quickly. All of a sudden regular and restful sleeping patterns return. The mind is not filled with the chaos of running from one task to the next. My eating habits improve and I’m able to fit in some regular exercise.

In other words, I’m probably going to be much healthier when I leave the job. But why wait? I can’t change my hours but I can certainly keep the exercise going and try to eat better. As far as easing the chaos of the job that is also somewhat in my control. I have sick time that I never take. Some twisted logic of mine from the old days says you don’t get sick.

It’s getting very difficult to think about continuing to work for someone else when all I want to do is concentrate and work on what I want to do. And while the sun is setting on this vacation I can’t help but think about my permanent one coming next year.

But tomorrow the return to the regular grind returns but I hope to put a different spin on my remaining days at the job that pays the bills.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Nature is the best color palette.
• Already planning for the next vacation.
• I’m finally convinced the U.S. is going further down the rabbit hole before it starts to recover. But at that point, it might be too late.
• Times change, families change, friends change. It’s nice when they can change well together but that always isn’t the case.

One of my many favorite towns in Maryland is Ocean City. I love it for many reasons. From coming here as a child to playing with my grandchildren on the beach this year. My favorite month is September when the water is still warm but the crowds have cleared out and streets and beaches aren’t packed.

We tend to do a week in the summer with the family but spring and fall are wonderful also. The town used to close up after the summer season pretty much but things are staying open much longer now before and after the summer season.

I know a ton of people don’t like it. I’m kind of glad those who don’t like it don’t come. I’m into positive waves during the summer, not negative ones. But apparently, a lot more do love it because it’s always packed during the summers and even into the off-season. We have met some wonderful people who are year-round residents.

I love eating down de ocean. The food here is great. So many different styles and of course fresh Maryland blue crabs. Some of my favorite ice cream shops like Dumsers. The things for the kids to do is endless. From shops, the boardwalk, amusement parks, and games.

I love the beach, it calls me all year long. But the pool is also a nice change of pace and being I don’t have one any longer it’s a real treat to swim in one again.

But it’s the dedicated time with family that really counts in my book. Be it playing a game together or a daily walk and meals in addition to the beach and pool time. Seeing the smiles. Hearing the laughter. Watching kids discover or be amazed or just jump for joy when they are playing miniature golf.

It’s a wonderful place in my life and I hope I have many more days with family in the coming years to enjoy it again.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I never joined Twitter and ever since Musk purchased it I certainly would never consider it now. I’m no fan of Zuckerberg either but I might give this Threads a try just to see what those apps are about. Probably a time waster and if so I’ll quickly jettison it but trying to live and learn as I go.
• I have a taste for pizza tonight.
• People who have no interest in the truth are not people I want to be around.

This haze and unhealthy air quality are issues today. The smoke from those Canadian wildfires makes its presence known here in Maryland. I did find a government site that tracks air quality by state. My condolences to those with respiratory issues. I’m not in the best shape in that area but I can make due.

Ran a few errands today and was outside for a little bit but my eyes started to itch. The smoke wasn’t as low as the below photo, but it was obscuring distant treelines pretty well. I hope it blows away soon, I’d like to spend some time outside this weekend.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Wearing a smile is a lot easier than the alternatives. A lot more attractive also.
• I’m pumped because I get to celebrate this coming holiday.
• I give Quest Labs in Ellicott City my highest rating for ease of use, and great staff that are experts at blood draws. You might think this isn’t so special until you hit someone inexperienced at your doctor’s office and have multiple holes in your arms and hands.
• After today’s decision by the SCOTUS, we can move forward and make things better than it was or go backward and create more inequities in our country. We can recover from this. The universities themselves could have positive solutions. Then again greed, money, and discrimination might get in the way again.

When I saw this shot I thought of the old Pink Panther movies with Peter Sellers and therefore the title of this post. “I’d like a ruem, please.”

Sorry, I’ve been using some older shots the last few days. Just haven’t felt that good and between work and personal obligations time is always short. But I’m starting to feel a little better today and hopefully, that will be the trend the next several days as I get back on the wheel of life.

I see the next 7 days look like rain. I hope it comes slowly because the ground is rock-hard from being so dry. And we all know that weather forecasters can’t rarely predict with much accuracy beyond a day or two so I hope they got this forecast wrong also.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I used to take orders from my job and my better half. Now I take orders from my children and grandchildren.
• It’s a good day when you say it is.
• Even though this blog might not show reflect it, I’ve been very productive the last few weeks.
• My thoughts are consumed by someone very special to me.

Soaring through the weekend and into the workweek later today. In some ways they are starting to blend for I’m no longer years away from retirement we are measuring in months now if all goes well.

I still give the job and honest days work but my heart and mind are on my hopes and desires in retirement. Time to develop my crafts, time to read, time to play or relax, time to sleep if I choose, time to exercise and improve my mental health, and many other things that just fall by the wayside with the blizzard of work that the job that pays the bills expects.

I started to get out of the high-pressure work about 9 years ago when I went to a position where I wasn’t on-call anymore. Well, for the most part, I still get an occasional call but nothing like past years where I couldn’t be more than a few minutes from my computer. I also cut my hours way back. From the weeks of 60-70 hours to an under 50 average.

I still find work challenging and take pride in it. Otherwise, I’d probably go insane if it were anything else. I have a project or two that keeps me busy in between the other emergencies, issues, and tasks of the night. So I’ll finish strong and then move on to greener pastures. With a touch of grey in the beard.

In Maryland We Are

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I think I’ll grill out today.
• Soon as I publish a post, I start a new one.
• I love this time of year when the sun is in the sky the longest.
• As I work this coming Monday holiday I revel in the thought that it’s not going to be my problem in the future.
• I wonder if my back is up to moving and splitting a cord of wood.

We knocked these two out, this weekend. They hung with us for 3 days but Sunday afternoon they crashed hard. We work hard and we play hard. And then we sleep. Well some of us sleep. I’m not so lucky in that regard. Like this morning after 3 hours of sleep and the job calls again. I tell you I won’t miss those calls in the future.

But it’s been a fairly good day and I’m looking forward to another weekend and a chance to do some shooting each day.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• There is a lot to be said for silence.
• Congrats to the Denver Nuggets, NBA Champs. The best team won it all this year.
• I don’t mind going to a hospital as long as I’m just visiting.
• Enjoyed the Yankees win tonight.
• Whoever told me I would know when the time is right. They were right.

Coasting later today, but a full slate of activities is ahead. A slow start for some of my weekend compadres but that was expected. There is only one other early riser in the team and he made the call but is still taking on coffee.

We have eaten like kings, laughed like we were in a comedy club, and even managed a little exercise. Today we finish up and return to the reality of work tomorrow. Not often do I treat myself to a weekend like this.

But it’s the type of activity that I hope to incorporate into my summer routine this year. To get out and enjoy the state and the wonderful family and friends at the same time.

In the morning before dawn, we see two freighters trying to disguise themselves in the Chesapeake Bay.

I don’t know why I used that title. It was a small part of my day this morning. A cavity and chipped tooth were repaired by my longtime dentist and neighbor and friend Dr. Bowman. I love their office and most of all, their work. Anyway, I’m good to go again and the original choppers are still intact. I sense a steak in my future.

Today was my nephew’s birthday. He was the first grandchild in my parent’s family. He made me an uncle for the first time. He faced incredible medical challenges as a youth for years and survived and thrived. The loss of his father hurt him badly for years. Michael passed suddenly and unexpectedly last July and I still can’t imagine the pain in my sister’s heart losing her son. I see it once in a while through her tears, but I know that there is so much more pain that she bares deep inside.

So today is not one of high spirits, but one of reflection. One that reinforces to make the best of each day. To evaluate and concentrate and act on what is important like relationships. I can see it with my closest friends for some time now. Anytime we gather it’s been a special occasion. No not some event, just recognizing that any time together is special each and every time we gather be it for a pizza and a drink or a concert or time laughing and creating more memories.

I feel it with my better half. I guess this is something in your senior years that becomes more acute. Appreciation for each day and all the special relationships.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• If you end the day excited and in anticipation of tomorrow, you’re living.
• The PGA and LIV. The death of the professional sport of Golf. Don’t get me wrong, I do like the game even though I’ve only played very little. And I’ll continue to play a bit but I’ll never watch pro golf again. Of course, they are far from the first company to sell their sole to foreign money. It’s not money that is the root of all evil, it’s greed.
• For most people, being a healthy weight is their own choice.
• Doesn’t anyone wash their own car anymore?

Aspirations are a good thing. In my 50s I thought that I wanted to become a professional photographer in my senior years and have that as my second career. Now that I’m a senior by someone’s definition and I still love and have a passion for shooting, but the desire to do it as a business or even worry about the title of professional is irrelevant.

I shoot because I like it and it makes me happy. I sometimes make other friends and family happy with them. I share them here and will be on my photo site once I get a few thousand more images uploaded and might be able to register with someone who I might not know yet.

I learned a long time ago when I started blogging that it’s not the numbers that matter to me. It’s the people like my daughter who said she read a post or two and liked the pictures or random thoughts once in a while. Or maybe someone I never met continuing to follow my ramblings and images week after week. It’s the feeling I get of possibly doing something I’m really pleased with. Be it a photo or thought or piece of artwork.

The joy is in doing the work and seeing something come together. Getting back from a shoot and the anticipation of something unique. Seeing a carving take shape. Learning how to write. All fun things.

I just wish I had more time to devote to the effort. A few minutes a day here and there is tough but if I didn’t love it I would have become frustrated and stopped long ago. Just like this blog, it’s a shell of what I hope to do in another year from now.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I wonder if AI ran across my writings if it would crash the system.
• There are few better feelings than when an infant grandchild wakes and you get the chance to lift him out of bed and he smiles at me.
• I had to laugh at this article about (Woke and Chick-fil-A)
• I don’t know what I would do if they ever wanted me to return to the office to work. Well on second thought, I know what I would do.
• This has been a glorious weekend, but work beckons and the nocturnal life begins.

What a great day it was. And the next two are going to be wonderful also. Don’t know that for a fact but figured I’d try to keep the streak going.

Just a few images from Chesapeake City from a while back. I think I’ll pay the town another visit this summer and try to get some more shots this summer.

Photos by Mike Hartley

Sometimes family visits are rushed. It’s rare to have a full day of time with your grandchildren and visits and meals with both of your own children. One of those very special days just filled with love and laughter and toys and water spraying and many more games.

A day where I’m not sure who is more worn out, the grandparents or the grandchildren. I’m imagining the bedtimes won’t be that far apart. I guess we are at that perfect age for grandparents, still strong enough to care for children all-day, mentally sharp, and helping them learn, play, and love. It’s a wonderful time.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Back to reality tomorrow and a long list of chores.
• There is a method to this madness. I just have to remember where I wrote it down.
• It’s like the invasion of the ants this year so far. I’m keeping them at bay but the numbers this year seem to exceed anything I’ve seen before.
• Hugs from children can change a difficult week into a good one.

Just some random thoughts and photos.

Yes, that is a lone tree below in a field that will yield corn this summer.

Can you see the hidden entrance below on this freshly cut field of hay?

I found a gift card for Ledo Pizza. I think I know where we are going this weekend sometime. For those of you not from the great state of Maryland Ledo makes square pizzas. As they say, they never cut corners.

Beware of low-flying drives at Nicks.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I could eat a snowball every day during the warm months.
• Every once in a while I forget what pain feels like. But it’s never very long till it reminds me.
• Not everyone is a morning person. Not everyones morning comes at the same time.
• It really doesn’t matter what the weather is this weekend, does it? I do have to set up the big umbrella over the grilling area though on Sunday.

I’m pretty conservative when it comes to dress. Casual would be a better term one that is basic colors. Gym shorts, (blue, black, grey) but recently I’m stretching out. I got a pair of power blue, a pair of gold, and a pair of coral to add to the collection. Now I know I have a long way to go to match the likes of the gentleman below but I’ll get my groove on from now on.

I’m expanding my footwear also. I recently discovered that tennis shoes come in colors other than white. So I got a pair of black with a little red accent. Now don’t get excited, I’m not going to start eating salads and tofu (not that there is anything wrong with that if it suits you). It kind of started when my better half (always trying to improve me) started getting me some nice colorful summer shirts for nice dinners at the beach. And now she has unleashed my color palette. Thanks, honey, I guess after all these decades I can change.

My summer groove is starting to come alive again. Watch out world. The time of year to let my hair down. The time of year my spirits are highest and I build a reserve of memories to get me through the cold months.

Stepping outside and listening and watching nature. Taking some time away from the job and getting a balance in life. Rediscovering the important aspects of life. Watching my grandchildren play in the water. Putting my feet in the sand. Many things like that.

I am getting ready for a series of day trips in the next month. Can’t wait to feel that excitement. And with the weight I’ve dropped the likelihood of people trying to roll me back into the water while I’m trying to catch some rays is unlikely.

I missed a shot that I had taken and I think I like it better than the one I used yesterday. I didn’t crop either of them, One I just got closer and zoomed in with the conventional camera while this one I shot on the phone. Sorry, for the semi-repeat. That happens when I don’t take my time editing.

I’ve watched and read enough recently to convince me post-processing of images is a very important part of the quality. Step one, I guess I’ll start with some basic tools like Lightroom because I can use that for the phone images also easily. I knew I would probably get into it when I retired because of the time involved but why not start now?

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I find myself drawing inspiration from more and more things lately.
• I got a power washer. If it doesn’t move it gets cleaned.
• I’m discovering the earlier I mix music into my week the better it goes.
• Work is so intense sometimes that I forget to do a lot of things that could balance it out.
• The Strong may not always survive, but they stand a better-than-average chance of it.

I’m always less than enthused when the sun isn’t going to be out. I love natural light. And that was the case this morning, So I went to see what I could capture with the iPhone camera. And yes I took a conventional camera with me also.

I just read a stat the other day that showed how late to the game I am. The statistic said that over 90% of all photos taken are done with smartphones. To this day 99.9 % of the pictures I’ve taken are with conventional cameras. Well better late than never. I’ll see if I can get used to it. This really isn’t a fair comparison with the old Kodak and the relatively new iPhone. But this has shown me that shooting with the phone will be just fine in a lot of cases.

One thing is for certain. That 6 oz iPhone 13 is easier to carry than that 3.3 pound Nikon body and lens. I was looking at a couple of grips for the phone so I can hold this right. That is one reason I never took pictures with it before, holding onto the edges of a phone was never comfortable for me. I need a grip, a safety cord, something that can mount to a tripod and has a shutter.

No, I’m not giving up on conventional photography tools. I’m just expanding my options and maybe lightening my load from time to time. Plus it’s another tool I can put to use and it’s a lot less auspicious than that big camera.

And what do you know, it cleared a little this afternoon with some sun. Had to take advantage of it and wash the car. But with that humidity, I can’t see it not raining tonight.

It won’t be long till the sand and surf start calling me. I haven’t stayed in the downtown area of Ocean City in a good while. Not that it hasn’t calmed down since my youthful years, it has but it’s still too congested for me. It is nice to visit though with the boardwalk entertainment and shops and food. If you like people-watching this is the place.

I love shooting in the town of Ocean City. Bethany Beach Deleware is a very close second. And as MacArthur said, “I will return.”

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I can’t remember what age it was when we started to say to each other how good the other looked. But it seems to be part of a standard greeting now that we’re all over 60.
• It’s always a good morning after the Celtics lose.
• The day is young, I’m not.
• The mind says it’s a great day for a workout. The body is saying Whoa Nellie, I can bring some pain to that gain.

The sound of waves hitting the shore. Purely intoxicating to me.

The sound of children laughing and digging in the sand. Purely intoxicating to me.

The volleyball game behind us with sounds of loud cheers for the spikes. Purely intoxicating to me.

The sound of a whistle from the lifeguard at the teens throwing the football or just being wild. Purely intoxicating to me.

The occasional sound of open headers or a pack of Harleys rolling down Coastal Highway. Purely intoxicating to me.

The bite of Old Bay on the crabs and the sweetness of that Cherry Ice Cream soda from Dumsers. Purely intoxicating to me.

Those moments when the family comes in from the beach, grandchildren on our laps or tucked in beside us with eyes closing quickly and our children trying to catch their breath, while my better half and I wink at each other. Heaven.

A new frontier is about to be crossed. I’m going to update my phone after 9 years on an iPhone 6. And the new frontier is that I’m going to try to use whatever new model, as a camera in addition to my personal communication device. I’m going to have to turn that company phone over some time and I’d like to start separating my life from their phone. Plus I hear the cameras in these devices are good. We will see.

I think I’ll start to signify what images are taken with what device. Then again, who cares. Well, I kind of do because of some changes in society. Let me explain. Just this weekend I was using my Nikon 7100 with the 18-300 lens. So it’s an imposing brick to carry around and put up in front of my face. It’s obvious your taking pictures. I love animals and I like taking unique pictures of them. So I saw this dog leaning out of the driver’s side car window as they were exiting the inlet lot.

The first shot I liked best because it looks like the dog could be driving but in the shadow of the driver’s face is a look that wants to kill. So I took another shot as they passed because it was a beautiful dog. If I had shot that with a cell phone, the guy would have probably never noticed. Then again I’m really going to have to learn how to operate that phone as quickly as I do a camera. But anyway I think cell phones might be a good way to avoid confrontation and issues if I’m doing things with people.

It’s not like I’m trying to catch people in bad situations. The opposite as a matter of fact. But we all know how touchy people have become.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Is it right to have a ton of random thoughts when the day is only minutes old?
• So I waited till later in the day to have some random thoughts but they all left me.
• I wonder if doing a few posts a day is too much.

I saw a few more of these one-wheel devices at the shore this past weekend. I got kind of interested and went to look them up and wow do they come at a price! Yes I know, what doesn’t nowadays besides my free rambling on. To each their own on choosing your transportation method. I’m too old to be falling off one of those so you won’t see me on one.

What I want to know is “Who-ya gonna you call” when you get a flat? Maybe we can mount a spare on the helmet?

I was reminded this morning it was the season for the lawn service crews to descend upon our neighborhood. And boy do they like to start early. Trouble is that is when I’m trying to sleep so we again begin the battle. Even with the house closed up completely the big multiple mowers, string trimmers, and gas-powered blowers always is more than enough to wake me and keep me up for as long as they are working hard. Just another penalty for working a night shift.

So far the workweek hasn’t ruined my extended weekend bliss. Only one more night to go so I’m trying to keep it together and coast into a nice but busy weekend. My better half has done her part and the gardens are looking good but now I must part. Arborists are coming Thursday to take 2 trees down and cut up one that fell a few months back. I’ve got a ton of work on the yard to do so it’s going to be a physical weekend. I’m looking forward to the battle.

Ah, the sunset on another day. Be well and safe.

Random Thoughts of the Day (second helping)

• My Nikon needs to go to the shop. Let’s see what kind of work I can do with that 15-year-old digital. I hope it’s no more than a week or two but who knows? I never had a high-end camera before.
• I can still be the horseee in my mid-60s. I don’t ask my granddaughter if she wants to play that but somehow she always remembers and asks to ride. I’m not sure which hurts more, the hardwood floors on my knees or my spine later that day. But you won’t ever catch me saying no.
• Feeling fitter each day. I’m hoping that eventually, that turns into feeling less pain.
• If you want to give a child something to remember put a mark on the doorframe measuring their growth over time. They will look at that and smile and ask every time they get measured if they have grown. Sometimes you just catch them stopped and staring at it.

It always feels good to be back home after a few days away. Then again it feels good to be away. Especially when it’s at the beach and you’re having a great time and some much-needed rest. Some stormy weather in Ocean City MD this weekend with really high winds, rain, and minor flooding. Oh, and the beach got blown on the boardwalk.

And each year when I think I’ve seen everything on the boardwalk, low and behold there is another surprise. And the sign on the back of his cart says “Believe” so I guess I will.

What it really made me think of when I got home though is how sweet it will be when I return from the beach in the future and I won’t immediately have to go back to work.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Something you can have often is no longer a treat.
• I see Aerosmith is doing a farewell tour. I’m like them and their 1987 album called Permanent Vacation. We both are about to take one.
• The Bay Bridge is not a place to be in foul weather.
• There is an answer, it just illudes me.

Boy, we had a nice stretch of weather. But that thunder last night while struggling to sleep was an indication it was changing today and boy did it. A nice soaking rain early and another round this afternoon I believe. That is ok, I needed some time to assemble my new power washer and do a few indoor things. And here is that opportunity.

Sorry about using the above rain photo again. I do like it because I can still remember that day. I was looking out the front door about to leave and this downpour started. But the sun was out and I glanced over at my neighbor’s garden out front from my porch and saw this so I grabbed the camera just a second or two before the clouds covered the sun. Timing can be everything.

Time to Change

As they say, the only constant in life is change. So why fight it, I think I’ll get on board and make some changes myself. Who knows, maybe I’m behind the times and haven’t kept up with change.

A week or two ago I mentioned a change in trying to reduce my soda intake. I also started watching meals and how much I was snacking. I got on a scale this morning and low and behold it has numbers under 200 on it. Checked in at 198 lbs and was SHOCKED. That was about 12 lbs in 2 weeks. As Robin once said to Batman “Holy guacamole”

I’m sure that pace will slow because my optimal weight I believe is around 185-190 lbs. And they say those last few are the hardest but only time will tell. I’m looking forward to getting into some nice shorts I had that weren’t fitting the last few years. So there is another plus side. I expanded my wardrobe without going shopping. Hell yeah. And my better half thought I should get rid of them.

Blowing the DUST OFF

I’m sure my neighbors might not be happy but my better half and her sister left this morning for a day trip and I’m blowing the dust off the speakers this morning. The house is closed up so I’m sure it’s not too loud but I will take a step outside to make sure in a minute or two. Not like I’m doing this often at all and I put up with far more than I dish out.

NFL Draft coming end of the month. Hey, what’s that Lacrosse goal doing on the football field? Oh, you forgot you were in the GREAT STATE of Maryland, did you? Well here is your daily reminder.

Well surprise surprise, I assembled the new power washer purchased from Home Depot. Well as much as I could because we have parts missing which is the first thing I thought of when I saw the tape job on the bottom looked a little unusual as I was going through all the cardboard packing. Like it had been opened already. Lo and behold all the nozzles are missing.

I was pretty good about not going there because I’ve had problems with ordering things online for delivery here before. And that hassle that put me through was painful. Now this bull. So another trip back with the receipts and dealing with this problem will hopefully teach me a lesson NEVER TO WALK IN HOME DEPOT AGAIN. If I have to I’ll wait to have it ordered from Clarks Ace Hardware instead of going someplace else in the future. Lesson learnt as they would say down south.

Here I was in a good mood this morning and they had to go and F it up. Now I got to turn that around again. Don’t worry I bounce back quicker than I used to. When you have to recover from adversity from many experiences over and over you get good at either turning it around or just becoming a very unhappy person. I choose the former.

As the Foo Fighters say

It’s times like these you learn to live again
It’s times like these you give and give again
It’s times like these you learn to love again
It’s times like these time and time again

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Had a nice family day yesterday. Got some exercise and had a wonderful dinner together. My grandson has an obsession with my glasses.
• Not everyone who goes into the Big Belly Deli in Sykesville has a big belly. But the establishment is working on it.
• The local gas station in Waverly Woods has stopped raping people on gas prices. Yeah, they are 5-10 cents higher still than everyone else but that 25-30 cent a gallon difference has gone. I still won’t go there except to fill up the mower gas cans.
• I was glad to see that mother of the 6-year-old who shot their teacher was charged. Don’t understand why the father wasn’t unless there isn’t one there.

The early bird gets the worm and then fishes with it.

The sun it out, temps are nice and shorts are the order of the day for clothing. Feels good to get outside and get some chores done. Feels good to be healthy enough to be out. I think that is what I hated most after surgeries, being inside on nice days. Drove me nuts thinking back.

It still sticks with me today not to take simple things like being up and around for granted. I get joy from walking to the mailbox and back. I look at the shade of blue sky, I smell the air and feel the warmth or chill of the temps. I hear a neighbor yell hello and return a friendly greeting. Usually I don’t even look at what we got till I get back inside because I don’t want to miss something. Like the local Hawk flying by to its favorite tree in my back yard. Or the box turtle slowly crawling under my shed or my neighbors garden.

So I have a smile on my face also knowing half the workweek is behind me and lots of family time on the horizon.

I’m missing my sons dog. We have been watching her the last few days and she is a loving one and so easy to have. We had pets all our lives with the exception of the last several years. The loss and hurt when they pass has been too much for my better half. I’ve thought about doing some volunteer work at the local adoption place near my home when I retire just for the contact with animals. The love they share makes me feel good and I’d like that feeling more often.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Farside cartoons first make you think and then laugh.
• Step away from electronic devices and get a balance in your life.
• There is a fine line between you and the fish on the other end.
• The better I get at scheduling the more I’m getting done. I’m just limited on the resources. I booked me, myself, and I each an 8-hour shift. Apparently, someone is slacking off.

The workweek is about to be wrapped up. The race has been run. The garage is gathering tools for the next town. The crowds are dispersing. The barriers coming down. The only thing left is the tracks from the tires on the street.

The trick is to have run the race and stayed out of the wall and infield. This is a good season to slow down a bit and enjoy the beauty that seems to be all around us here in the state that was the birthplace of the National Anthem. Looking forward to taking the foot off the accelerator.

At the same time, I feel like finishing up a few projects I’ve started recently. Oh yeah, it’s the final 4 weekend. Well, that takes some of my Saturday out. As they say, make the best out of things with the time you have.

Do you know what I could go for tomorrow?

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Supported Jersey Mike’s day of giving today.
• I love learning by doing. The trick is not to get discouraged till you mastered it.
• There is a special feeling when you give something you made to some you love.
• I feel the need, the need for sleep.

Life is full of options. Where to live, where to visit, where to vacation. I have a friend who just wrote me while visiting France. I have a relative coming cross country (U.S.) to visit and stay soon. Everyone is going and coming.

I guess I should get busy. I’ve made a few limited travel plans this year utilizing 4 days of vacation time but lots more time off to plan for. And while discretionary funds are limited we are going to see a lot of things we haven’t before that are still within a day’s drive.

On the must-list, this summer is the Air and Space Museum in Chantilly Va. Also on the list is the American Indian Museum in D.C. Two small towns I’d like to visit are Chesapeake City and Chestertown Maryland. We also haven’t been to Rocky Gap or St Michaels in a while so might as well add them to the list. Oh, in Antietam Maryland I’d like to visit that National Park Service Battlefield. And you know I’m going to spend some time with my feet in the sand with the Atlantic Ocean lapping at my feet in a beach chair.

I go to a number of places in my own mind without leaving the house, which is good for a day like today where it’s wet and damp out and I don’t feel exactly right so I’m staying inside watching hoops and pretending I’m an artist.

After a quick burst of energy this morning I’ve faded fast. I feel like I’m struggling to maintain a high pace of activity. Then again maybe that is my body and brain yelling BALANCE in the background as I try to forge ahead. I’ve gotten so tired I’ve lost focus. I’ve been migrating from one thing to another and that isn’t the most productive way but when I do get tired that does become the drop-back method of madness.

It certainly lead to a less than an accomplished day. But at the same time, lots of progress was made. And a lot of things are pointing at a productive Sunday.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Boy, is it good to see old friends! Even on Zoom
• How Bout dem LADY TERPS!
• As the truck pulled in with 20 bags of mulch I think I heard my back say “Whatch you talk’in about Willis”
• I can’t wait to see the sunshine tomorrow.
• Do you think we are witnessing the beginning of society breaking down completely?
• This is the first year I can remember not having to shovel any snow. And I’m going to put the shovels back in the shed tomorrow.

Mornings are always good for stretching out. And that is what I’m doing in many ways. I’m finding great joy in working on my hobbies and stretching my creative wings. For this morning I was trying to fill some holes in my portfolio and ran across a few images of the National Harbor on a morning we were there in late fall celebrating an anniversary several years ago.

I ran by them in the first edit I did and upon reflection, they aren’t perfect but I felt like doing a morning post and hadn’t shot anything yet today so I thought I’d share them and throw in some words. Then again, maybe they should be on the cutting room floor.

I figured the first shot was appropriate for this morning. I’m hoping for a nice sunrise before it clouds up completely today. I love getting up early when I’m not working for the job that pays the bills. I can see that I won’t be sleeping in when retirement rolls around.

Stretching out physically is very important. One of my best friends has emphasized the benefits of this and we suffer from some of the same back issues. And when I’m finished with this I’m going to follow his advice and spend some time stretching.

Stretching is also important in relationships. We change over time and it’s important to adapt and move forward. We are moving forward in many ways. Sometimes families fracture along the way in life. It’s nice to see parts left still value each other and make an effort to gather regularly and enjoy each other’s company and our shared history. And this is part of our weekend.

And while you’re at it why not do a little mental stretching? I’m going to do a little reading and research. I’ve got a few tutorials on photography and woodworking I’m sure would help me.

But after you have a full day of being stretched in many directions, don’t feel bad about getting in your favorite chair and putting your feet in the sand.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• How early is early?
• I wonder if I can find the time to post twice a day.
• Oh crap, I better get a coat on and put the cover on the car before it snows.
• The thought of taking a long nap this afternoon sounds inviting but I’d kick myself if I wasted some creative time.
• Cutting back on TV viewing time is leading to happier days.
• Why does my neck sound like a truck going over a gravel road when I roll it around in the mornings?
• Can you feel it? March Madness is almost upon us.

It feels good to get productive again. Yesterday was a day of enjoyment and relaxation for the most part. Something that is needed after a tough work week. But accomplishing things feels better. And I was on a roll during the work week which isn’t always the case.

I’ve been on a tear uploading images to my photo site most of the week and now I hope to really get moving this weekend. Tomorrow a few hours in the morning will be spent carving some wood. There will be a few photo opportunities in the afternoon with some possible snow coming and then some writing in the evening.

But tonight we have an open schedule after watching our granddaughter today. I drew a quick portrait of her today. I’m still proficient in crayons and markers. Always the observant one and completely honest my little bundle of joy said my office is a mess and I need to pick it up. Well, those sound like marching orders to me.

I’ve been wanting to experiment with some different portrait lighting so I hope to get to that this evening also. Then again I’d like to finish reading The Photographers Playbook this weekend. It’s good to have lots of goals and get to as many as possible. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t tired as hell.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Thank goodness my desire for ice cream isn’t dampened by cold temperatures.
• The innocence of children is so heartwarming.
• I’m sorry but the nicest thing I can say about one of my neighbors is nothing.

The sky, land, and sea have a lot in common. All can look wonderful and inviting. But all can turn on you in an instant and threaten our existence. I’m feeling as smooth as the sky below this morning. I also feel as cloudy as it is being I’ve been lacking sleep the last few mornings. Let’s hope tomorrow’s rest works out better.

I never posted the first image (above) here but it’s part of the same sky as the two below which I have used before. I really wanted to get out today and do some shooting but having trouble powering through. Feeling if I do I might make things worse. In your youth, it’s easy to ignore those signals. In your senior years, there is a price for not listening. So the stubborn slightly old guy is listening and staying in.

I have a series of object shots to finish processing for an appraisal for someone. Then back to making some prints. And there is always some reading or studying for enlightenment. Both of which I hope to make a few minutes for.

Oh crap, I forgot it was Fat Tuesday. Here is a shot (below) I took last week. Looks like they are prepared for the event. I wonder if a crowd will be on that balcony.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I’m not into gusty winds.
• I was going to do what the Doobie Brothers’ song I was listening to earlier suggested and go “Rocken Down the Highway”. So I ran to get into the shower only to come out to clouds and a downpour. Glad I didn’t take the cover off the car before the shower.
• I wonder what Ron D would do if Mardi Gras were in the state of Florida? Ban it?
• The fewer conversations I have with my body the happier we are.

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Monday. I blink my eyes and a day is gone. But even though I accomplished little in the chore and creative endeavors I carved a place in my granddaughter’s heart by playing with her intently for hours today.

So back to the final (hopefully) series of images from Berlin Maryland.

Maybe this is what is meant by a slower pace of life. I can dig it. I’m into boards and bikes. Plus I like the flatness of the Eastern Shore.

I love outdoor dining. Well, most of the time. There certainly isn’t any shortage of it available in Berlin Maryland.

There are so many unique stores to visit I can’t list or photograph them all but I did enjoy most of them.

Not a town with your average storefront windows.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• It’s too late in my career for a new manager again. But here we go.
• There are only so many chances to do it right. That is why I try to do it at least once a day.
• Today was the definition of spotty showers.
• Just squeaking in under the deadline again.

Back to some shots from Berlin Maryland. The two favorite spots in town for me besides the World of Toys store was the Beach Memories and Jeffrey Auxer Designs. The few shots I took don’t do their shops justice.

After a very good meal at the Hotel Atlantic on Wednesday evening, we had breakfast at the soda fountain across the street.

There is something for everyone from formal to informal.

Brick, is the decor of the town.

The business was hot for this cold shop. Island Creamery

Tomorrow I’ll finish editing another batch of the town of Berlin and then move on to photographing the next one.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I’d like to feel better.
• I’d like to do more work here and with my cameras.
• I’d like to be on vacation again.
• I’d like to be closer to retirement.
• But as Bob Marley once said “don’t worry, be happy”

A trip to the shore (Ocean City) and the little town of Berlin Maryland on Wednesday and Thursday with my better half. A few hours at the beach and a few at an old town made for a nice mix of good old Maryland experiences.

Being my time at the beach this year has been limited, I used the day to soak it in. No photography at all there. The feeling of fingers and toes in the sand, the sound of crashing waves, the laughter of children, the warmth of the sun, and the coolness of the ocean breeze.

But that evening and the next morning I got to take a few as we wandered the town of Berlin.

We had a nice stay at the historic Hotel Atlantic. Great staff and meal at the hotel on Wednesday night. The beds were a little soft for my liking though so I was up early to take a few shots before the courtyard filled.

It’s late now and I’ve got a lot more editing to do so I’ll post some more images tomorrow and elaborate on what I liked about the town.

I promise a day of shooting at the beach in September.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• I can’t believe schools are starting already. Not that I go to school. We just help watch children so our daughters can teach school.
• Having worked all my life I can see why a lot of workers are dissatisfied.
• I don’t feel good, but I feel better. So I’ll take that and run with it.
• My confidence in management and ownership in this country to wake up to the fact that a lot of workers are dissatisfied is slim to none.

What a wonderful day. Sunny and cool for August but very comfortable. Today was that wonderful ritual of cutting the estate. And I use the term “estate” in humor. I have a little over an acre of property. And yes that is a nice amount but it looks like a postage stamp when I compare it to some of the spreads I saw on the eastern shore this past weekend.

One of my best friends has a home on Kent Island and we decided to explore a bit. We took a spin Saturday morning and he throws me the keys to his Vette. We tooled around the communities and back roads on the island and surrounding small towns, with a stop at the Owl Bar to meet a friend, before heading back to his home.

Even though I would look at these estates with wonder, I didn’t feel the need or wish for one. They were wonderful homes with great views and sometimes multiple structures on the property. But I would feel guilty not cutting that and contracting it out. So there it is. Rich people will never know the solitude of sitting on a mower for an hour or two being totally consumed by the roar of the motor and blades doing their work and just getting lost in thought.

Oh, by the way, it’s a blast driving a car with a stick and with over 600 horsepower.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• How can you not smile when you see a child?
• A good evening for a ride with the top down.
• Enjoy the next month or two, I have a feeling after that it’s going to get a little crazy for a while.
• I guess I’m at that age where I actually have to start listening to my body.
• I surprised my daughter with the color of gym shorts I purchased recently. I’m glad this old guy isn’t entirely predictable.

The promo before the basketball games at the University of Maryland does before each contest where past stars and coaches appear saying “I have Maryland Pride”, is fitting for today. I will also say I have Maryland Pride and I love this state and its beauty and most of its people.

I have lived here all my life and I can’t see going anywhere else. Will probably have some of my ashes scattered here when I’m gone. But until then, I’m going to enjoy the beauty and people I love here.

And I got to get work on making it even a better place to live.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Nothing like being chased by or chasin after a 3 year old all day.
• There are only so many hours between now and when I wake and I intend to sleep every one of them.
• Some nights I get a head start on sleep.

Yes, it was lightly raining and very cloudy but that didn’t dampen our spirits. It’s my mission to start to explore more and take my better half to more places and see more things. So this coming year while the pandemic still ebbs and flows I’m looking for outdoor events.

Even though I’ve explored a good bit I still don’t feel like I’ve scratched the surface of this wonderful state. I was looking around at holiday events and saw this in Frederick Maryland so off we went last night. I like the feel of this town.

It’s not like we haven’t been here before, just never around the holidays.

Photos by Mike Hartley

It was also the first time in a good while I felt like taking the heavy Nikon out for an extended period. The shoulder is healing nicely but that thing is a cinder block. Nice camera, don’t get me wrong, just heavy for an old out of shape guy. And yes we are going to fix the out-of-shape part this coming year.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• Just because you get one good nights sleep it doesn’t mean its going to be followed by another.
• Just to be clear and transparent I’m not clear and transparent.
• A voice of a generation or two for the NFL. RIP John Madden. At least in the booth he was seated or just standing. On the sidelines he was quiet animated.
• I’m going to take my own advice and RTFM tonight.
• Any day you see a grandchild is a great day.

A wonderful evening with friends out on the water. A good dinner a Nicks and an evening ride back to the docks. While we were just sitting there a blue heron landed on the dock near us and didn’t leave till we were about 45 minutes later.

A father of one of my best friends’ childhood friends took us out from Canton to Nick’s. We ate outside and there was a breeze coming off the water. We were on the edge, so even though there were many people, the air was moving the other way. Funny how I think about those things now.

A good meal and lots of laughs. We ate well and treated our Captain. Events like this bring balance to what seemed to be getting out of control again. It helped put things in perspective.

Anyway, back to reality today. Rainy morning with a flash flood watch for this Friday in central Maryland. I guess that is the balance that comes after a beautiful evening. Today is going to be spent with my better half and continuing to set balance to my mind and body. And while hours of hard work await this weekend my mindset today is to have a great time.

Maybe a little exercise for the mind and soul. I think I’ll try to whip together a few posts and of course capture some new images to go along with the aimless wanderings of my mind. And with the job that pays the bills in the rearview mirror for the week, I’m looking forward to a great day despite the raindrops.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• There is no bad day to photograph.
• I have a music deficiency and I must remedy that today.
• As summer draws to an end my mind thinks about my daughter and daughter inlaw returning to the classroom. It is with an unusual unease this year. Normally would be thoughts of, I hope they get a good group of kids. Now my thought are more worry about them staying healthy and the kids parents.
• Water brings calm into my life. It also brings work, had an area with some washout with that monsoon this past week. So between the raindrops this weekend I will be working on that mess.
• It’s funny how the pandemic has changed my desire for getting a haircut as often. And everytime it starts to get a little long I think about letting it grow real long again. And then another week or two go by and I say holy crap.

I might have to go get a few Maryland Blue crabs this coming week. Maybe some melted butter for dipping. Hey, it’s summer in this state and that is what we do.

Crabs are finger food. Maybe a mallet for the claws but nothing else is needed. Just some room. And yes with those sharp edges come some finger nicks from time to time and when that Old Bay seasoning hits it the reminder to grab the cold tall glass of beer in front of you kicks in.

Thankfully I was taught at a young age how it works. How to make short work of the de-shelling part. I’ve seen some good pickers but the wife of one of my best friends still stands out in my mind almost 5 decades later. He would be eating along at a good pace but all of a sudden you started to notice this mound of picked crabmeat beside him. You glance away for a minute and the mound became a pile. You take a sip of beer, the pile is now a small hill and then a mountain. She was fast.

It’s easy to recall a lot of good experiences both crabbing in our youth to eating them this summer. I guess a common theme also is that they are enjoyed with family and friends always. Rarely have I eaten crabs alone. Could probably count it on one hand and have a few fingers left over. No, I’m not including polishing off the last few crabs the next morning after the feast. That is part of the feast.

You can get just about anything as examples below with crab in Maryland. I believe the Baltimore National Pike Crabhouse on Rt 40 served a heaping crab pizza many decades ago. One of our good friends could grill up a mean rockfish covered with crabmeat from a crabcake mixture. May he rest in peace, I can still picture him weaving in front of the grill after a day of fishing together. Of course, we were all weaving that day if I recollect correctly.

I like my homemade crabcakes but picking fresh ones is right there at the top of the ways to have them. We are constantly in search of the best cream of crab soup. Crabs are a blessing to this area. Many always thought lobster was at the top of the seafood chain but Blue Crabs from Maryland prepared fresh are a treat that I think tops the larger crustacean.

Random Thoughts of the Day

• This past year or so has shown me in a new way that the adage “Ignorance is bliss” is really true.
• I still get excited when I clean my glasses and put them back on and can see again.
• I have no problem with people using mowing services. I have a problem with the services showing up at 7:15am.
• Looking forward to learning is the way to live.
• I had a south of the border start yesterday, taco’s for breakfast.