We punched our tickets to Frederick Maryland today. I’m trying to get us out of the house once a week at least to visit a Maryland town. Not that we don’t get out beyond that, but something special just for the two of us. Maybe a lunch or dinner at a nice spot and a long walk together.
Step right into a beautiful day. Photo by Mike Hartley
It also gives me a few minutes to photograph, which I love. And sometimes my better half finds some stores to venture into, allowing me even more opportunities.
Cart me off to Frederick Maryland. Photo by Mike Hartley
We had a great lunch at Brewers Alley with wonderful service and will add them to our list. We looked at the Tasting Room menu but we had eaten there before.
The walk is good except you have to watch your step in town. There are a great number of uneven spots so be careful old folk. That is not the case for the walkways along Carrol Creek. They are smooth, wide, and flat. A good place to run also.
We like walking in this town and will visit again this summer. It might be a good spot for some night shots also.
The low 60s with a breeze, a tad cool but that sun felt great. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Spring has sprung. So has the sale of Kleenex.
Got a good bit of exercise in today. I’m going to set tomorrow on repeat.
There seem to be more birds around my home this season. I love it till I go out to my car.
Pain is not welcome, but apparently, the message has not been received.
I have a wish list this morning, too long to share, of goals and accomplishments for today. Things will come up and change and modify it. Then there is reassessing the priorities and maybe even the validity of some things on the list will be challenged.
Of course, time constraints will enter into the equation and maybe my expectations were too grand. If we go out we could hit unexpected traffic or a long wait for lunch. A call from a friend who needs your ear. A chance for romance.
The mower might not start, and a neighbor might need a hand. Hey, it’s good to be flexible. And be happy with what you can accomplish if you give it your best.
Floating like this guy today. All is easy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Disorganized is okay till you discover organized.
Doesn’t feel like global warming today.
The mind is at 100%, unfortunately, the body’s lagging behind that.
Another afternoon of less than steller production. I’ll make up for it this evening. After I finish some time on the treadmill. A bit chilly out for a late night walk.
Old Polaroid LandCamera Model 80. Photo by Mike Hartley
I do know the cameras will come out this week with the weather improving. No not the one above, I’m guessing there isn’t much film left for them if any. I know they stopped making it long ago. Good old peel apart images.
If I’m lucky I’ll get out before sunrise a few days and catch some night shots. I might just throw the tripod in the car tonight before I walk out half asleep without it.
I’ve made a few assignments for myself. So we will see if we can come back to the newsroom with something the editor will be pleased with.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Right Now I’m listening to Van Halen’s “Right Now.”
Right now is the time I should be getting back to that pastel sketch.
Right now I just had a better idea, falling into my better half’s arms.
Right now I’m getting up and seeing what she thinks of that idea.
Refueled and ready to obtain victory today. I’m off and ready to go after a slow start to the morning. Probably the effects of being with friends, for the Lakers game, and some late-night work.
Hopefully, there’s time to fit in a bit more photography today. A few early afternoon errands and then grilling out later today.
It’s all in the tank. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m excited about the coming week. I’ve set some hard goals and will work hard each day to complete them. The first task is to complete a pastel piece I started a few weeks ago. I’m also going to finish 1 charcoal piece.
I have a few hundred images to upload to the photo site today. I hope to go through the pack of 50 sheets of paper I just loaded into the printer and maybe more before tonight. So off I go to the hobbies I love.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Reaching out is risky. But it’s always worth it. For nothing else than your peace of mind.
The right time is now. Regardless
An opinion is just that. Now a strong feeling is something to think about.
A very cool day in late April is not to my liking.
The sun is struggling to appear on this fine day. I’m changing some of the plans due to rain early this morning. The mowing is moving to the afternoon, the morning car show is a no-go for me with wet roads so I have a little creative time.
Just 3 deer of about 8 normally stroll through the court behind our home. Photo by Mike Hartley
A quick afternoon appointment and then I’ll wash and shine the fun machine put the top down and enjoy the day. I’d also like to capture some fresh images and a cherry snowball.
Holly crap, I just looked at the to-do list. If I pay attention to that the day could be ruined. I’m sticking with the above plan.
Random Thoughts of the Day (Morning Edition)
I hate, walking into spiderwebs. I was reminded of this morning.
Bees are our friends, till they sting you.
I need to order a few loads of fill dirt and maybe one topsoil. I’ve avoided ordering it because moving it follows that.
Having appreciation makes the day a wonderful thing. I need to remember that more.
On a misty damp day, I’m just looking for a little shelter. On this Friday night, after a long week of Helter Skelter. On this day of challenges, I’m finally in my own space. On this late night, I’m going to set my own pace.
The Doctor – one of my nicknames
I don’t have much left in the tank but it’s the weekend and there is much fun to be had and chores to attend to. So we shall switch to reserves to get us through the next few hours.
A few hours of shuteye, up early to pull the cover off the fun machine and bathe it. I hope to have time to hit the Mikey and Mels Cruisin at Maple Lawn. You can’t roll up to a car show in a less-than-clean ride. Then I’m taking an old car out for some estimates. There is a chance though that the car show may have to wait and maybe just a late afternoon cruise.
I have a lot more to do around the home this weekend than there is time. Which will win out? Hopefully, some balance can be achieved. If it’s a cold morning I’ll probably do the chores early and ride in the afternoon.
I hope to attend the big car show in May in Ocean City so if I miss this weekend it’s no huge loss.
Random Thoughts of the Day
One of these days I’m going to count up all the different lists I have.
The last of the shots from Tuesday in Annapolis MD. At least I think it’s the last. I was pretty tired, editing late this morning. I fell asleep in the chair which I hadn’t done in ages.
Being the weather is rather overcast and wet today, I’ll have to do something other than sunny day photography. Have a great Friday all.
My better half and I spent a few hours in Annapolis on Tuesday afternoon and I was able to capture a few images along our walks.
First I’d like to share my appreciation of the 2 female members from the US Coast Guard team who took part in their lunchtime to grant a request from a stranger. As they pulled up and docked on Ego Alley and tied off a woman with 2 small children asked the 2 women Guard members if they would take a photo with her daughters.
They gladly agreed and took the time to make that mother’s, day. I didn’t want to hop up and distract the girls while they were trying to get the shot so I just took one as they walked off together.
Happy and maybe a new dream. Photo by Mike Hartley
This is a great town to walk and shoot. On the next trip, we visit the Navel Academy and hit some shops around town.
We love hitting new restaurants together and found a nice one in Annapolis Maryland. It had been a good while since visiting this town. So this place isn’t new, I believe they opened in 2022. It’s just new to us.
We were pleasantly surprised to see The Choptank on Ego Alley. What a beautiful spot on a wonderful spring day.
When younger we would always make a few trips a year to Annapolis but we skipped the last 2-3 years.
We love seafood and they didn’t disappoint. We split an order of Oysters Rockefeller and each had the Lobster Roll. Mine with fries and hers with a salad. And both were so good. There’s a great number of items on the menu, I’d try.
Photos by Mike Hartley
Some tips we learned on our first visit. If you want upstairs outdoor seating make reservations. Outdoor seating on the lower level is still very nice. Indoor seating by the windows should be your 3rd choice if possible.
On second thought reservations would be a good idea anytime here. We were there on a Tuesday afternoon and the place got crowded quickly. We were lucky to come early.
Oh, one more thing, our service was excellent. I wish I had gotten her name for this. But thank you again.
Obviously, with this view in this town with very good food you can expect to pay a good price but to us, it was all well worth it. And as General McCarther said, “I shall return.”
PS: Storm Brothers Ice Cream on the other side of Ego Alley is a nice dessert.
For those not from the area. Ego Alley = a short narrow waterway that expensive boats come to parade through.
Good thing they don’t have allergies. Photo by Mike Hartley
Sorry, I’m a bit punchy and tired after watching my grandson today. I’m going to try to edit a few shots from Annapolis and do another post before I run out of energy.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Children who can’t talk yet communicate just fine with hugs.
If you want proof this area is overdeveloped, just try to go anywhere around the rush hours.
I saw a person in a compact car trying to drive into the cab of an 18-wheeler. It lost badly.
Got a nice gift from The Washington Post today. A framed front page of the day I started there a few decades ago.
I caught this reflection in Annapolis, yesterday afternoon on a walk after a wonderful lunch. It couldn’t have been a better day outside by the water. I’ll post some photos of the shoot later today.
Window charging. Photo by Mike Hartley
I tried to capture a variety of things. Like some food photos from our lunch. A few reflection shots like the one above. Some nature and storefronts. Some people, boats, and whatever else crossed my gaze.
I also got one of the best shots of my better half at lunch. Even she liked it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There are far too many weather channels.
Does all the focus on gambling turn off some sports viewers?
It’s a lot more fun walking the town of Annapolis than the treadmill.
A little rain today will not dampen my spirits in the least.
I think I’ll switch to listening to some jazz later today.
I could use this class below. Firm bed, sunshine, and the sound of waves in the background. But I think I’ll walk the extra 100 feet to the sands on the beach at Bethany. They are a little more comfortable than concrete.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Another beautiful day is ahead here. Some seat time in the Miata is mandatory with the top-down. Maybe a snowball from the Woodstock Snowball Stand on the way home. The cover goes back on the car tonight. I wish I had a garage.
There I go making the mistake of wishing for things instead of just being happy with the gifts I have. Like today, it’s going to be a sweet day.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It felt good to brighten a friend’s day. He needed it.
Time to pick up some new glasses this weekend. The peepers need adjustment.
A good day to catch some rays.
The more of the day I spend being thankful, the happier I am.
Good morning all, it’s a wonderful start to the day. So you caught me in a lie. Some mornings I rise well before sunrise because inspiration hits me. This morning the shell I call the body was paying me back for past transgressions with some pain. So up at 3 am to begin the day.
That will not deter or stop the progress or fun of the day. It might cause me to be a little tired later but I can cope with that.
Don’t be afraid to be the bright light in a space where it’s needed.
Photo by Mike Hartley
A free Tuesday. This has the potential to be the most productive day of the week. Let’s see what I can make of it.
The day has a nice sparkle to it. Be it in the eyes of people I saw or feeling in my heart. I got a wonderful note from my daughter that touched me. Yesterday a great surprise from my son and I’m beaming from ear to ear.
Baltimore MD. Photo by Mike Hartley
I was up early and made some nice progress. And then I ran out of ink and had to put a hold on some of the printing I was doing. No problem, I shifted gears to some editing and organizing.
Joined Up
Two very uncharacteristic things happened today. I went shopping with my better half and we went to and joined Costco. I’ve heard friends speak of this place and sampled a few things from their homes and at least one person in this home was chomping at the bit to go.
First I was impressed with the organization and efficiency of the staff of the Columbia location. Second, my better half tells me prices are very good. They carry a lot of stuff and I’m sure we can make use of the membership fee and not overspend. We didn’t do too bad and got out without breaking the bank.
Now I’m not a big box store type person. I think I’ve stepped foot in a Walmart twice and didn’t buy a thing. I try to use my local Clarks hardware instead of Home Depot or Lowes as much as we can. But I’m going to make an exception for this one being I’m retired and have to watch what little money I have.
I’m big into supporting local but for staples and a few other things, we can save some money for some fun things.
The shocking thing to me was that I thought I had come on a weekend when I pulled into the parking lot. More like a parked lot because everyone was cruising for a space. One of the staff inside said to me this wasn’t busy. HOLY F’ing crap. I hope I’m never near this place when it is busy because what I saw looked very busy.
And true to form, the people with carts drove them with the same lack of skills they probably have when they get into the car to go home.
I’ll be back, there are a few more things I saw that I didn’t walk out with. And it will thrill my better half that I want to return with her.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Pain has a way of reminding me who is in charge. I got slack, but had a wake-up call today.
Do you ever wonder how many more springs you’ll get to see?
I think the bad drivers in Baltimore got together with the bad drivers from Washington and had families in Howard County.
Concerts used to be people connecting through music. Now they look like a video recording studio.
I’ve got a much better flow going this month. Each day I’m more excited to see what I can accomplish. And each day I feel I do better and better. At the same time, I’m able to relax, rest, and regroup after years of hard work.
Inner Harbor Baltimore. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m cranking out prints, editing, and taking more photos daily. Tonight I’m going to catch up on reading some blogs I follow. I’ve been neglecting that in the last few days, and that isn’t right.
I should spend some time on the treadmill also. As I look to the right I see a couple of photos that need frames and hanging. Retirement is being excited about all the stuff to do.
The week ahead is booked tightly. Some responsibilities but time for some fun also. I think I’ll try to do 3 posts a day starting this week and try some organization at the same time.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Hugs from a toddler are so genuine and special.
The upper 70-degree temps agree with me. But I sense sneezing ahead.
Nice start to the season by the NY Yankees. The Evil Empire Returns.
I love listening to the song Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd early in the morning.
If we like it or not we are tied together. Not just by the power grid, cell towers, our highway system, or connected neighborhoods and homes. Not only our grocery stores and farms or buses and schools. When we get married we tie the knot. Sometimes when fishing our lines get tied together.
Up the street, we go (Annapolis MD). Photo by Mike Hartley
We are tied together at work for a common cause. Many worship at church together. We dine at many establishments together. I used to think we would come together in the defence of our own country but I’m not so sure of that today.
Regardless we are tied so tightly together and so dependent on each other that all this anger and mean-spirited actions are just a waste of time and energy that could be put to better use. Instead of being fit to be tied, maybe we can tie a knot together again.
Enough soapbox, the rubber will meet the road this year on that front.
I’m on a roll today attacking several projects at once and knocking out a few chores along the way. I think I’ll get back to making some prints this evening and uploading some to the photo site. However, I will get up from this station tomorrow morning and take a few long walks with the camera for some new images.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Sunrises and Sunsets on Ocean City Webcams are great, but much better in person.
Mother Nature and her winds were doing some tree pruning last night. And I heard some more crackling this afternoon.
If I’d known retirement was this good I’d have gotten to it sooner.
I love the sunshine today but that gusting wind has to go.
Spend a few minutes outside with that substantial breeze today and you will feel winded here in the mid-Atlantic. I had thought about some outdoor tasks but thankfully decided to stay in and do some editing. I was going back looking for some street photography and found this item I hadn’t done anything with before.
The glassworks in the window make the town street come alive. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s a store in Annapollis Maryland showing a street reflection. I loved the store but I believe it was gone on my last visit there. Wish I could remember the name of it. I got my daughter a gift from there when shopping together so I’ll have to ask her. I’m sure her memory is better than the old mans.
I think I’ll place a greater emphasis on doing more street shooting. I might as well, I’m on a mission to visit a great number of towns in this state I haven’t been to or love visiting and shooting before.
I’m having a lazy day. I didn’t sleep all that well. The AC repairman (preventive maintenance check) came and did his thing. Got to editing a few hundred flood pictures of the 2016 Ellicott City one. Made about 70 prints. Scheduled a doctors appointment and cooked some sausages for breakfast. Worked on a car and cleaned my workroom a bit. So I haven’t been a couch potato but I just can’t feel like I’m in gear.
Maybe I should get on the treadmill and see if I can find a gear to get me moving.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I was always so acutely aware of what day of the week it was when I was working. It took 3 months and 11 days for me to lose track of them after retiring.
Going to try a new butcher shop this week.
Time to shake up this office.
I wonder how many times a day my thoughts wander to my children.
My better half noticed my arms got too much sun the last few days. I didn’t see it till she pointed it out. I’ll have to get the sunscreen out already. I usually don’t burn much, if at all, and brown up nicely.
Always good to get a base tan before heading to the beach. Photo by Mike Hartley
We have some overcast and rain the next few days so I won’t be able to overdue the sun. The bad weather reminds me as the song by Van Halen says, to (Finish What Ya Started). And if there is anyone who needs to finish things I’ve started it’s me.
So I’ve fired up the printer and if that thing isn’t smoking by the end of the day I haven’t done my job. A couple of photo projects need completing and I just started a series on the flood photos I have of Ellicott City.
There are days I feel like a blooming idiot. Today isn’t one of them but I’m sure that’s, just my opinion. The trick is not to compare yourself to anything, but what you want to be. Certainly not to other’s titles, wealth, homes, cars, boats, clothes, or jewelry. Or their skills, intellect, or persona. Just be you.
Better to bloom late in life than not at all. Photo by Mike Hartley
To be healthy and happy with yourself. To keep finding those positive emotions, feelings, pride, inspiration, and contentment. Things I should have been doing long ago instead of many other emotions like anger or feeling inferior or frustrated.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There is a fine line somewhere and I must keep stepping over it.
The music of Lynyrd Skynyrd speaks to me.
A good morning, I needed some alone time.
The ultimate dilemma for me, I’d love to lower my car just a bit to improve its stance, but I’m older and it’s already a low-sitting car. A stock Miata MX5. I’ll talk myself into the coilovers because it will improve handling, but I’ll do it for the look.
Few things are as good as a convertible on a mid-70s day with the sun shining on the back roads of Howard Country. My better half and I got out yesterday, stopped at Duchess for sandwiches, and ate by the river in Ellicott City.
Photos by Mike Hartley
We then ventured down to Fulton, over to Brighton Dam, and up some back roads to the western part of the county. Some freshly plowed fields, huge homes, and bright churches.
Oh, I couldn’t resist taking a shot of the beautiful Bobber. I wish I had asked the guy for some information on it.
I hope to get out again today and capture some images, but lots of chores might get in the way of that idea, and with the rains coming the cover is going on the Miata.
Just like the off-focus of this shot below, I’m a little fuzzy this morning. That late start to the championship game last night and some creative work after that have led to a little bit of sleep deprivation.
Don’t fence me out. Photo by Mike Hartley
I recover quickly from these events, so I’ll be back at full speed by the afternoon.
The car is washed and polished a bit. The engine bay is the next area to be detailed. I’ll spend a few minutes doing that but it’s too nice a day out, not go for a spin. My better half has already expressed interest and I need a snowball, out we go sometime today.
Hopefully, I’ll capture a few images to share later.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Clean cars look faster.
Just realized my go-cart is 8 years old today. Happy Birthday MX5
Grass grows, grass cut. Repeat for the next 8 months.
Let’s get trucking this Monday morning. I rose at 3 am and felt I got a jump on the day. It’s going to be a good one loaded with both chores and fun. The first 4 hours of the day have been a blast catching up on communications, writing, and editing while enjoying music.
Nothing compact about this. Load’em up, let’s roll. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m headed out to wash 3 vehicles, then fire up the mower to cut and trim, a dentist appointment this afternoon, and the game this evening. That’s a full day.
I find it interesting that many are so enthralled about the eclipses today. I get the significance and infrequency of the event. For some reason, it doesn’t interest me to catch it live. Now sunrise this morning was another matter. It was nice and I was up to appreciate it.
It’s also the Final 4 game day. College Basketballs National Championship game. I can feel myself missing it already. The pro game while good, doesn’t hold the excitement. At least it’s a summer filled with anticipation for the coming season of Maryland basketball with a new stud in the center position to build around.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I have not lost my mechanics repair touch completely it seems.
Thank goodness for headphones, otherwise, few would sleep around me.
How do you know you’re in the wrong neighborhood? Everyone else has a yard service but you.
A feeling that this season is going to necessitate the chainsaw coming out.
Thank you, my better half. You give me hope, calm, support, and love. There isn’t a light as bright or comforting as you.
Some people provide a wonderful path through life. Photo by Mike Hartley
Blogging
I just realized I passed the 3000 posts mark a few posts back. I saw the 5400 image mark passed a while back. Not bad over the 10 years but a drop in the bucket I hope to do over the next 10. I’ve only been retired for 3 months now.
I also found a list of goals from January and February of 2014. I thought about starting a business in Photography, Blogging, Book writing, and other arts. 10 years later I want nothing to do with business, but everything to do with pursuing those roles. If a business comes from it later on, so be it.
All I want to do is create. And several of the ideas on this 10-year-old list need to be fulfilled. Sometimes I’m glad I’m a packrat. Hidden gems appear now and then.
I feel like I’m on this unfinished journey to realize something I feel the need to communicate and create.
When I started, I thought it was just for my photography. I discovered I enjoyed writing (running on at the mouth without talking). It’s the practice to learn and develop so I can get a book or two completed.
But I use blogging for a lot of things. Simple ones like just getting moving and motivated every day. It makes me think, reflect, and sometimes share what I’m feeling about what I’m hearing or seeing. It’s something that family and a few friends occasionally look at.
It reminds me to pick up the cameras, turn on the music, get into a positive mindset, and begin the passion I feel each day.
I get to share the random crap that crosses my mind, and my photos and hopefully make someone else feel better and myself at the same time.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The sounds of pickups and trailers unloading huge mowers have started again. Maybe someday they will be pulling up in front of my house. Of course that comes with a COST.
Good friends, good food, March Madness. Blissful Sunday morning.
The news is the news, it’s there every day. I’m more of a history buff now being retired from news organizations. I catch it when it’s convenient with me.
I fall a little short of writing my children every day but at least that reminder is there and I have a fairly good batting average.
I have two dead batteries this morning and only one charger.
After a nice day in Easton Maryland on Tuesday, we headed closer to the water and rolled into St Michael’s, less than 10 miles from Easton.
A steady and heavy rain was present the way there and into town. We parked and thought about walking with the umbrellas but those are some small streets and things were ponding and getting soaked from traffic was too great a risk.
Painted waves on the white fence. In another few years, they can have real ones. Photo by Mike Hartley
So we went back uptown to the Gourmet by the Bay. While small, it’s full of good people and food. A deli, butcher, cheese, liquor, fine wines, spices, salads, and many other wonderful treats. I had one of the cheese biscuits we got from there this morning.
We got a panini, water, and coke, drove back to the midtown parking, and ate. Our timing was good because it was down to a drizzle for about an hour or two which we used to walk around town and go into a few shops.
Walking in the rain with umbrellas isn’t bad but we tired of it and decided to do some exploring. We drove all over town, back streets galore, and saw an interesting slice of life. St Michael’s is a place I could consider living in.
Some wonderful homes, all sizes and shapes. But most were small and older and remarkably well kept or restored. We had gotten a recommendation from a shopkeeper for a place called Chesapeake Landing. So being we were headed down to Tilghman Island we thought we’d give it a shout. Especially when it came to the endorsement “it’s the place locals eat.”
And it was good and we will return. I love finding new places. I was sold on the place from the appetizer on. I’ll head down this way when the weather warms up and it’s a sunny day again.
How can it all be empty at the start of the weekend? Just kidding, I’m not much of a drinker anymore and thought that was just a nice display of decanters.
Hunters Tavern Restaurant in Easton, don’t worry, they have lots of full ones. Photo by Mike Hartley
Now there was a time when if you sat that many full bottles in front of me you would certainly get many back empty. I don’t miss that. I was a punishing drinker with a fairly strong tolerance in my youth. I put the two women I love the most, my better half and my mother through a lot of pain for a few years.
I’ve spent a long time making up for those days.
Onto something more current. The more we explore the state the more I want to do. Our next trip is going to be to Antietam National Battlefield this month. It’s been on my list for a while. A day trip, nothing epic.
The Park entrance pass is $20 per car. I see they have 6 free days throughout the year. It looks like a great place to walk on a nice spring day. And we both like getting steps in.
I do love history and have been to Gettysburg a few times. That is also on our list to return to in the future. So this should be a great outing.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I was coloring with my 5-year-old granddaughter today. She is getting so much better at staying in the lines of drawings. I’ll have to remind her next time that it’s ok to do things outside the lines or with a blank sheet and just her imagination again. Like she used to do when we started.
Sometimes getting comfortable with the art I produce and willingness to share is the most difficult part of the process.
OK, it’s April, cool, windy, and wet to start the month so far. I’m hoping it gets its act together by next week and warms up
It doesn’t seem right, but I’m very nervous and very peaceful at the same time.
I had better go pull the cover off the car and get busy detailing it. There is a Maryland Miata meet-up next week.
Both the region, state, and population are drying out hopefully in the next few days. The areas we ventured into and then home again got more than their fair share in the last 48 hours.
I know I feel saturated but that is OK because we had a great time the last two days. As always it’s good to be home also. I’ll post some shots of our overnight stay in the Eastern Shore town of Easton and visit St Michael’s and Tillman Island tomorrow once I edit a few shots where the lens didn’t get wet.
At a local bed and breakfast in St. Michael’s Maryland this afternoon. Photo by Mike Hartley
Taking a nap before I retired always felt like I wasted time. Even though it may have been needed and earned I would always wake mad that I had slept in the middle of the day. If it was for only 15-30 minutes I would wake uncomfortably.
Well after several naps in the middle of the day this year, I’m Nap Enabled. I feel better when I wake up and am no longer upset, mad, or pissed at myself that I slept. I’m proud of myself for resting when I feel like I need it.
At best I used to look at it as a treat. Something that I finally said to myself, relax, kick back, refresh yourself. But regardless of how I went into the nap, I would wake up rushed and feel I had lost something important when I woke. At a minimum feeling I had slept too long.
Looks like I found another plus of being retired. I’m learning to relax.
Fading fast. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Looks like the yard will need its first cutting this coming weekend.
I managed to change the calendar on the first day of the month. Sometimes I slack on that task.
Opportunities are there for the taking. Will I grab them?
If I could figure out what language my back is speaking in, maybe we could negotiate a pain comprise.
Sometimes it’s the things that aren’t said that are hurtful.
I used to love going to the Laurel Meat Market. They had the meats as the Arbys commercial says. And they had been a staple for decades for family and friends.
Since they closed, we used Borman’s and the regular grocery stores. I think I’m going to visit J.W. Treuth Butcher in Oella this spring and pick up some meats for a few special weekends.
It’s been a long time since digging into the size steak below. Probably a healthy thing but I do miss that full feeling after powering down a good steak.
Today, I like a small filet instead of the huge porterhouse, strip, or ribeye. And not too often so it’s a real special treat now.
Nice steaks from the old Laurel Meat Market. Photo by Mike Hartley
One of the best parts about being retired is that I no longer have to work holidays. Having just enjoyed one again with family and being able to go to sleep and not have to work all night allows me to appreciate them. This is great.
Sometimes prized possessions are the simplest things. I have a postcard from my father when I was 2 years old. He was in the Naval hospital recovering from TB and surgery. It’s one of my favorites because it’s addressed to me and in his writing and words. And he signed it, Lots of Love Dad. I guess I’ve been thinking about him more lately for some reason.
I’ve been missing him dearly for almost 6 decades now. Do you ever get over the loss of your parents? The answer for most is no. And that is good in some ways. It keeps them alive in your heart. It makes you think back about good times and hopefully transfers those to your children. They remind you to think even when they aren’t here. They kick you in the behind to think about being compassionate, considerate, and polite long after they are gone.
So if you still have parents, cherish the moments with them.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Heard some thunder early this morning. I wish it was an indication of warmer weather but that doesn’t appear to be the case today.
My screen time on that smart (dumb) phone was down again. Hell yeah.
The holiday feast my better half prepares is always special. It’s leftovers day.
Looks like I’ll have a great chance to do some foul-weather photography in the next few days.
A wonderful morning and start to the day. Bright sunrise, deer grazing on the hill to our side and in my backyard. A stillness outside, and a smell of freshness in the air after the overnight showers.
Children texting morning hello’s and love. Food prep is underway as the rays of light blare through the kitchen bay window.
Have a great day. Photo by Mike Hartley
Whoops, just remembered I needed to vacuum the basement. (quick break in the typing)
Enjoying the crux of the college basketball season when after today we are down to the Final 4 and the last 3 games of the season. Well, it’s game time and company is coming, time to run till later tonight.
To those celebrating, a Happy Easter.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Being in a hurry never works for me.
Missing 2 very special people today.
Time to turn the calendars tonight.
If I take any pictures outside in the next 3 days they will be wet.
Every once in a while I need a few moments or a day to collect myself. Yesterday was that moment or day. I was spent and even took a nap in the afternoon. The turnaround began early this morning when I stayed up late and worked on the coming week’s plans.
I’ll take the better half on this summer paddle while at Rocky Gap Resort. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m glad I didn’t start the day feeling like I was paddling uphill. I woke in a bit of a fog like the photo but that cleared quickly.
It’s a good thing it did because I have a busy day ahead. I haven’t had time for shooting today but hopefully this afternoon. I did find a few shots from the Rocky Gap resort that I hope to visit this year.
This place is beautiful year round but the fall is special. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
A weight scale gives balance to my hunger.
I wonder how long it takes for that breeze I feel today to circle the globe and be back again.
The Miata interior is detailed, engine bay next.
I hate reaching the end of one day but love that I see the start of another.
There are very few good things accomplished without some substantial effort.
April is going to be great, but I still have a day and a half not to waste.
What is my angle early this morning. Like the tower, partially upright. Tired and mentally spent I don’t know what I’m doing yet. I stayed up way too late watching hoops with the boys and then doing some photo editing till early this morning.
I can’t wait till the sweet corn is in from the Eastern Shore this year. Photo by Mike Hartley
But like the field behind the tower I will look towards the sun this morning and move with the days breeze and grow as a person. A good day to reflect on some things, like priorities.
I pulled the cover off the car and I need to get to work detailing it a bit. I think I’ll pull a few of my favorite CD’s out and go for a cruise in the afternoon on this sunny day. And that means a Cherry Snowball as I head home from the ride.
I’m doing that to avoid looking at my to-do list. It’s long and full of needed attention but so is life and that is a higher priority today.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The song Dangerous by the Doobie Brothers is a good riding tune.
So much to accomplish today and only 12 hours left.
I’ve never picked up a guitar but some days I feel like grabbing one and plugging it into a big amp and going to work. Other days I long to climb behind a drumset and pound away. I guess that is the good thing about singing, I can bust out when I want, and of course when people aren’t around.
It would be nice outside without that strong wind, but that’s March.
Fire escape or entrance, it’s hot-footing it out or in.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I start this day with both trepidation and excitement. March Madness cranks up again this evening and I’ll be watching the action intently. The part of the day I’m not keen on is the doctors appointment. Hopefully just a quick check and prescription refill and out with a smile on my face.
Doesn’t always work out like that though so I can feel my chest tighten. I’m a bit on edge and both eager and not, to hear test results. But hey, that’s life for everyone. At least for those of us who are fortunate enough to have doctors. And I’m very thankful for that.
I am inspired to have a few hours to concentrate on some print production for 3 separate projects. Also a concerted effort to move more images to my photo site and sort/organize that for display. So let me get to that and maybe another post later tonight.
It’s funny that I still look at the week as a measurement of work, even a few months into retirement. Here I am sitting, thinking I’m behind on several things I wanted to do this week like I’m working for someone or on an hourly budget or there is a deadline from someone else.
For a second this morning, I was going to beat myself up for sleeping in and walking into my office well after sunrise which is not the norm. Then I smiled and said, slow down, you’re doing fine, look around at the work you have done in a couple of months.
I wonder if that will change in time. After being on a schedule for so many decades it’s ingrained I guess? Just like my sleep patterns, which remain screwed up after the last decade of overnight shifts. I know, that I’m still a little giddy that I’m retired and reveling in the possibilities while working hard on the ones I set out on.
Sheltered paths are safe but you see more walking on the roof. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Is a writer both a lead singer and lyricist?
Somedays I get the urge to throw my leg over a big V-Twin and go for a ride. Those days I have to avoid driving past the local bike shop.
The hard part about doing art for me is knowing when I’m finished.
I went out to get gas and ended up stopping in two small towns (Ellicott City and Sykesville). Some of my favorite local ones. It was a bit chilly but I put the top down after gassing up. Driving the country roads getting to and from them. And yes some exercise walking each of them for a little bit.
From a mother with 3 small children hitting Firehouse Creamery to a couple watching the Patapsco flow by. Joined by the same railroad tracks that go through both towns.
Photos by Mike Hartley
This morning’s event of the bridge collapse has left a cloud over the day. I was so upbeat this morning before I saw this sad news. I had started a post and ended up trashing it and not being able to think till I got out for a few minutes and cleared my head with the camera.
Tomorrow is Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving. We are going for lunch or dinner. They donate all sales to local charities I believe.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s ok to waste a part of the day but never the whole day.
I’m going cold turkey from Jelly Beans till after Easter.
I wonder if all the people watching that bridge collapse will be more nervous driving over big bridges from now on.
I remember going under the Key Bridge with our friend Dan in his boat.
I was outside doing a few things yesterday, I hadn’t done in a while. Some vigorous yard work has left me a bit tight in the legs. That steep hill in the back will tighten up the calves and hamstrings quickly. My back is also talking to me but I feel a little better after some time on the treadmill.
Thankfully the rain started early and is supposed to rain through the afternoon today. That means that 25 bags of mulch that were delivered yesterday won’t be going down this weekend. Sometimes Mother Nature comes through in the clutch.
I don’t feel like going out to shoot in this. Photo by Mike Hartley
Sports – Hoops
The March Madness round of 64 is done and we are down to 32 teams. I was lucky this year and so far have picked 25 of 32 games correctly. I believe I heard earlier that there are no perfect brackets left in this year’s men’s tournament.
I’ve enjoyed watching it this year. There have been a few more upsets in the first round this year vs last year. It is a bit strange this year without Greg Gumble and Jim Nance doing announcing and commentary.
Most of the best teams survived easily in the first round and dominated. No #1 or #2 seeds lost. But today and tomorrow some big names are going to get big challenges and the number of shattered dreams will be large on Monday morning.
This win-or-go-home on such a big stage, in such a condensed format brings so much drama. And on top of that, you’re dealing with the emotions of very young men who have put in a level of dedication that few their age know and in 40 minutes it suddenly is over.
March Madness will shake off this winter feel. Photo by Mike Hartley
I can’t wait to watch the action today and tomorrow. I will not miss a game. Even when another activity overlaps I’ll go tape delay on that game and watch it at the end of the day.
I was so tired last night the late game watched me in the recliner. Hey, it’s no easy task to watch 24 hours of basketball in 2 days.
It’s strange not to have the team I love to follow (Maryland) in the Dance. But I love this sport and will watch it with great interest.
Attention Basketball Officials: When did carrying the ball become LEGAL? One of the best players in our group said he tried to do it but couldn’t because it’s so ingrained in us that it would be called in a heartbeat when we played. To suspend the ball or put your hand under it while dribbling is ILLEGAL. Basketball at every level needs to correct this now because it isn’t right.
Sports – Baseball
Well, opening day is this coming Thursday for Major League Baseball. I’m looking forward to the season for a few reasons. I live outside Baltimore and the Orioles had a great resurgence. They even finished first in what might be the best division in baseball from top to bottom.
It’s great that it will be so competitive with the Yankees again this year and all the banter back and forth with friends will be restored where both teams are fighting for the top spot instead of only one or neither. So it will be fierce.
I loved how MLB sped the game up last year and made it much more watchable. I’m looking to follow it more closely than I have in the previous decade or two because I have the time now.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The more difficult the situation the more difficult it is to find the right words.
I thought I lost my favorite pair of glasses, but relief was had when discovered.
I wish I had a garage, I would still put the car cover on but it would be just keeping off the dust.
By focusing and working more on short-term goals, I’m accomplishing more.
My weekend starts today. It’s packed with activities and commitments and time with family and friends. What could be better.
And after many hours of basketball watching we will be down to the Sweet 16 on Sunday night. Brackets will be busted. I will be tired as hell. I may have put on a few pounds. I probably only post 2x a day between now and Sunday and they may be shorter than my normal rants.
Game after game after game. I’m ready coach, send me in. Photo by Mike Hartley
Hey, I got a few vices left and watching March Madness is one of them.
Like many, my brackets are filled out. It used to be people would just do one. And it was just for fun when I started doing them. Then pools started at the jobs or in families. Then some started doing more than one as gambling became more associated with it. The term “Bracket of Integrity” was born to show your friends if you were betting head to head.
The tournament is still a great thing. College sports on the other hand is in trouble. Not that the Pro’s aren’t headed for issues also. Gambling will be one of the many death blows of sports. Players, refs or team officials or owners are going to get CAUGHT. And when they do it’s going to blow the trust, like there is any in the world of gambling to begin with. The only rule is greed.
The transfer portal on top of the one and dones are killing College sports. It may have killed it in it’s first few years. And of course money. The days of a group of 18 year olds entering college together and winning a national championship 4 years later together like the 2002 Maryland Terps are HISTORY.
The days of your favorite superstars like a Cal Ripkin or Derek Jeter staying with the team they started with are pretty much in the past. Yes it still happens but its the exception now to what used to be more of a rule.
It’s BULLSHIT and it’s causing me to not enjoy what is a GAME. Well it used to be a game, now its big business. All of it. Way down deep into high schools and even middle schools I bet.
I haven’t even touched some of the other sports that are dead to me. Gold for instance. I’ll never watch another stroke on TV. I might play it once in a great while but no more. NASCAR is another. When they got away from production cars years ago I lost some interest and when Earnharts left it I was out.
Pro Football keeps doing things to lose me and the emphasis on gambling has me watching much less.
I still enjoy the game itself. But what some do to make it something else diminishes it. Sorry, I didn’t mean to do a long rant on sports. It’s just that something so beautiful has been so tarnished.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What the hell is going on? It’s below-freezing outside this morning. Someone get Mother Nature on the phone right now and file a complaint.
I need to be careful starting the day off with too much inspirational Rock and Roll.
I was going to wish that everyone could enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of the sunrise. Then I remembered if everyone was up it wouldn’t be peaceful.
There should be a video of the 3 of us friends shopping for the day’s food and drink supplies for watching 12 hours of basketball for a group of maybe 8-10. It’s got to be comical. I know we laugh a lot and get lost with 3 different baskets.
Don’t know why I chose the title “Winds of a Wednesday” but we will run with it, being it’s been very windy the last few days. And given the late hour I’m finishing this post, the day blew by.
So while I made great progress with a couple of print projects, I didn’t do much new shooting. But I did get a couple of vanity plates.
Yes, it is an actual town. Photo by Mike Hartley
I had an appointment with the medical vampire today. Seeing the doctor next week. I’m hoping the labs are good. I’m so tired of going to the doctor and ending up with more appointments.
I’ve lost the excess weight, now I need to tone the body more. Time to turn this around with some more fitness.
Yes, these SUVs are whales. Photo by Mike Hartley
I had better get to work on some blog posts for tomorrow, I’ll be watching a lot of basketball, working the yard, and doing some social activities the next few days so my free time will be at a minimum.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I find myself looking forward to the day when working on my tan is the main objective of the day.
A very productive printing day. Must have added 30-40 prints to one of my town walls.
Sometimes you see train wrecks coming and despite your best efforts they still crash.
As each month passes I feel like I’m making better use of time.
I’m getting into cooking lately. 3x in the last 4 days. A goal I hoped to expand on.
My memory is getting bad but I don’t think I’ve grilled out this year. Somewhat embarrassing to admit that fact. Anyway, the streak came to an end and the season of charcoal and wood fire began on Sunday.
Don’t worry, there is a very thick juicy burger under those toppings. Photo by Mike Hartley
Burgers from the grill are the best. I built this one with a parmesan crisp on the bottom bun and some fried onions on that. The burger with double American melted cheese, topped with bacon and avocado. Just a little BBQ sauce on the top bun and consumption commenced.
I’m thinking about adding a smoker to mix now that I have time for some duration cooking.
We did have two wonderful meals out last week. The first, with our daughter at Ernesto’s in Enchanted Forest shopping center. My better half got Shrimp Frahetas and my daughter and I got Enchiladas de Camaron which is a Homemade flour tortillas filled with grilled shrimp & Monterrey Jack cheese. Topped with a creamy wine sauce & served with rice, charro beans, veggies & avocado salad.
It was all very good as has always been the case for us.
We are blessed with several very good Mexican restaurants in the area Pachanga Cocina Mexicana Restaurant is just up the road from there and also very good.
And of course one of our favorites in Clarksville, El Azteca.
This reminds me, that I need to eat more Mexican.
Okay, the other meal was with some very old friends and the conversation was so wonderful that I didn’t feel like interrupting the flow by taking a few pictures. We were very pleased again with Matthews 1600 in Catonsville.
I had the Cheesesteak Eggrolls and for the main course the Eastern Shore Rockfish – Fresh rockfish, sauteed, topped with Jumbo Lump crab meat, over a cold sweet corn salad, finished with Old Bay butter. Our company had the Rockfish also and my better half had the NY Strip steak. Everything was perfect from the service to the food and company. Great time, we will return.
No more food reviews without pictures. A new resolution for the year.
I’ve got to get on a schedule, like the trains. Predictability is good. I never had the time to make that a part of my blogging. Just time to pull together an image and a few words while working and living was a goal I had trouble doing daily.
Now, without a full-time job, I can crank out a few posts a day without much issue. So why not try to start a routine for this mess of a blog?
Trains are rolling art displays. Photo by Mike Hartley
This train will run 7 days a week. Track maintenance (doctor visits) might affect the schedule. There will be multiple trains each day that may run anytime day or night. The engineer has a weird lifestyle and many other loves, passions, chores, and obligations.
This train might go off the rails at times. It might seem to be more off-track than on.
This train has many different speeds and will go at whatever is inspiring it, or slowing it down with negative vibes.
Train getting ready to cross Woodstock Road Photo by Mike Hartley
This train has many unscheduled stops along the way. If the conductor or engineer feels the need to stop and look at something beautiful, then enjoy it.
This train may be an express at times and only a start and reach its endpoint.
This train has a dining car. For Food Reviews of course.
This is also an auto-train. Yep, it stops and we get off for some 4-wheel adventures.
This train hauls freight so some baggage might be unloaded from time to time. But also some important presents here and there.
I worked for a short time, in a building just to the right of this bridge. Photo by Mike Hartley
This train may go through tunnels of darkness but don’t worry, we always emerge out the other side.
This train has many stations and new ones, constructed all the time.
I read that trains are symbolic of progress, destiny, change, and transitions. Maybe some of that will rub off here.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Feeling the need to listen to music today. And we know that inspires the feet to move.
Way too cold for the first day of Spring. I’m staying inside as a protest.
It’s bracket-picking time. I’ve talked my better half into doing one. I’m going to do it like one of those ab lib games. I’m just going to give her the names of both teams and fill out the brackets. The odds are she wins it all.
I was up before sunrise and loving life this morning. A little music to get the mind in some nice rhythms. Some inspirational tunes that help me think positively.
The early Bee gets the pollen. Photo by Mike Hartley
My boss (me) was pleased about knocking out some work on the blog and prints for a few projects. So I continued this good vibe but took a break to hit the hardware store. Imagine, going on a Monday morning with no weekend crowds to fight. Hell yeah, retirement is sweet.
We love Clarks Hardware. Very helpful staff and good selection. Trouble is that means more work for this guy now that I have supplies.
Shot of neighbor’s tree while I was grilling out. Photo by Mike Hartley
An afternoon headache impeded my progress but I’m back in the grove this evening. I have both computers rocking and enjoying some me time.
Random Thoughts of the Day
A special week ahead for one of my favorite people in the world.
Why do I look at stats? I guess I’m vain.
I’m trying some different writing techniques. Time will tell.
The wearing of the Green Day. Happy St. Patrick’s Day. And what better way to wear green than below?
Classic Mustang GTA. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve completed my errands, it’s time to start prepping the evening meal. I’ve got the grill cleaned and am about to go fry up some bacon for the burgers later.
One of nature’s Greens. Photo by Mike Hartley
So far a beautiful day here in the Mid-Atlantic state of Maryland. I hope to spend some time outside before the temps drop for the next few days.
Things are starting to bloom and it’s that colorful time of year coming to life again. I can even feel myself coming alive again. So time to stand up and walk away from the computer and watch life bloom in real-time.
Communication – I love it if it’s both ways. Otherwise, it’s a lecture, I’m not always big on those.
Just passing by at an interesting angle. Photo by Mike Hartley
Good day, I wish I had gotten an earlier start. No problem, I’ll stay up later today working on my passions.
I have a love-hate relationship going on with my property. I love my yard so much and then there are days like this and I look at the work in front of me and sigh with dread. Charging the battery for the rider is the first thing today. I don’t want the grass to get out of control from the get-go. I’m guessing in a week or two, it will need its first cutting.
It does feel good to be outside. That sunshine feels nice even though it’s much cooler this weekend than the last few days. I still took some outdoor furniture back outside, if there is sun out, I want to enjoy it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
The earlier gouge on my hand reminded me to use my gloves before working outside today.
Our shed is old but in pretty good shape still. It’s small but functional. And like the mower in it, both will need to be replaced in the coming years.
There is always one power tool that will give me trouble in the spring.
Taking stock is difficult. Taking a flier is easy.
My willpower is fading, I’m hungry. I have to keep active. Back to work in the yard, I go.
I think Bling happened decades before the phrase was coined. I’ve never adapted to bling. I don’t wear rings or watches or chains or piercings. Then again, if I ever purchase one or customize my ride, that might qualify as some bling.
I guess I was just in car mode yesterday. It must have been the photo I shot of this Camaro below. After spraying the Miata off and going for a ride with the top down, there were so many nice cars and motorcycles out that there were too many to describe.
One nice paint job on a beautiful ride. I look at others and try to pick the perfect color for me if I go for new paint. Photo by Mike Hartley
Maybe it will clear up later today for another short ride but that drizzle this morning isn’t inviting so far. And next week has a chill coming so I guess I’ll have to wait a bit longer before converting from sweatsuits to shorts.
Just the right amount of chrome. Photo by Mike Hartley
The local car shows are kicking off again this month so more opportunities to see impressive works of art and speed coming together. I’m going to miss the local one at Mikey and Mel’s in Maple Lawn next week but I’ll be at the rest of them this year. And I hope to hit both the spring and fall meet at Ocean City.
Unfortunately owning motor vehicles means interfacing with the DMV. And today I have to return tags from an old Chevy. I have to admit, DMV has improved over the years. And the places that offer DMV services for a fee I’m sure have taken some pressure off the state.
I’ve had several poor experiences with DMV myself. Things like their computer error made my perfectly legal tags illegal, causing me to get stopped and denied being able to take my car home. Even though all I did was wait for the officer to leave. But then I had to go to DMV to prove to them I had valid tags even though the lady at the counter insisted they had been turned in. I had to walk her to the friggin car because she didn’t believe the registration I had in my hand and that the tags were on my car and valid. Almost got arrested that day.
Hopefully, today’s transaction will be no fuss, no muss. Or is today’s term “no yada yada?”
Random Thoughts of the Day
A productive morning already, anytime you make plans with your better half it’s a good start.
Time to kick it up a notch and challenge me, myself, and I more.
I wonder if I get more of my motivation from negative or positive experiences.
I’ve got to fit in a long walk today.
Taking the cameras with you is important. Taking them out of the bag is more important.
The Daily Writing prompt asks – What activities do you lose yourself in?
I lose myself in a lot of what people might consider normal activities. For instance this one, blogging, and writing my poems or books. I can lose myself and find myself at the same time.
Music would probably be the main activity that I lose myself in. Be it, hearing a song on an elevator I like or at a live concert. It causes my body to move and my mind to be at peace and open to new thoughts and ideas.
Driving my Miata now or my motorcycle in the past especially when they are pointed to the beach with some music on a warm sunny summer morning. I love driving and can lose myself on those endless ribbons of asphalt or just cruising slowly on some twisting back roads.
And of course, life wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t start with losing myself in the arms of my better half.
I lose myself and become a child again when playing with my grandchildren. I lose myself each day wondering how my own children’s days are going.
In my hobbies, I can get into a project taking shape and lose myself, and half a day is gone.
It’s impossible not to lose myself on the beach, just letting sand run between my fingers looking out over the Atlantic Ocean, and hearing waves crashing onshore. Floating on my back in a pool or on a float.
Sometimes on the treadmill I’ll shut my eyes and go into a scene I’ve walked outside.
I used to lose myself in my professional work. Here is a public service announcement. It’s great to be professional. It’s great to be dedicated and hard-working, applying yourself to the fullest. It’s not OK to be a slave to the work or to lose your perspective where it’s affecting other parts of your life.
I lose myself in the hammock looking at the clouds overhead.
I can get lost eating a huge pile of steamed crabs or grilled rockfish or steaks or ice cream.
Wow, it looks like I spent a lot of time losing myself with all the above. Don’t send out one of those senior alerts, I’m fine, but if anyone finds me, just return to sender.
The fish are in the other direction young man, I’m just a photographer. Photo by Mike Hartley
Ding, I’m rocking and rolling in The Zone this fine day. We no longer reside at Mission Control, the nickname I gave my work office. That one is history and now I work with a team of me, myself, and I. This basement office room may seem bound with walls but its imagination is endless and the 3 of us trip over each other to get to work each day.
Feather petals. Photo by Mike Hartley
This isn’t a hump day, for I like putting in 7 days a week. And I don’t consider what I’m doing work. Yeah, it’s a bit of effort. And the better I make it the more effort it will take. But so far it’s a labor of love. One that I hope to sustain for a very long time.
My eyes itch looking at the center of this flower. Photo by Mike Hartley
A few errands to run today of the fun ahead. Some photography this afternoon and the Maryland game kicking off the Big 10 Hoop championship this evening. Hopefully, a few rounds of ball are still in them.
Trees are haunting this empty home along Rt 99. I might have to go back and shoot this on a full moon. With all those vines those trees won’t be standing much longer.
What will fall first, the home or trees? Photo by Mike Hartley
What a beautiful day. I got to spend a few hours cruising with my better half around the back roads of the county and down into Old Ellicott City and then to Danials. Things are starting to green up on the ground and there are buds on some trees already.
Along Rt 144. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m holding out hope to do some shooting before sunrise. Also, some videos from Monday to download edit, and upload. And I haven’t made any prints yet today so that has to be a priority the rest of this evening.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There is a cleanness of the air today.
Flowers peaking out of the ground make the moment you see them special.
Today I rode. Tomorrow I walk.
Time to schedule a vacation day from retirement.
Sitting here wondering if the 26 year old John Deere will crank up and run another season.
Will I shoot most of the day, stay up late editing and playing with photos, or go out for some night shots in the area? As long as I do 2 of the 3 I’ll be happy.
Along Rt 99 by the Conservancy. Photo Illustration by Mike Hartley
Will I sell the Chevy this week or hold out for more?
Will I get Chinese or BBQ for the game on Wednesday night?
Will I remember to make a doctor’s appointment today?
Will I answer the dumb ass question of the daily writing prompt today?
Will I blow off my to-do list of responsible things and have some fun?
It’s too bad we don’t recognize how great things are when we are going through them and experiencing them.
Sometimes that relentless pursuit of perfection clouds the real accomplishments.
I wasn’t working for the money all these years. I was working for my family.
Before you know it you’re past it.
Mother Nature reminds us we are here and under her control every once in a while.
The more time I spend watching the sunrise and the sunset and filling the time between with family and friends the less I give a hoot about the Internet or Politics or any man-made object.
I hope to see a ton of these this year. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m about to put that Canon Pro-100 to the test tonight. If it’s not smoking by the time I go to bed, the power has probably gone out. Which is a possibility with some strong winds tonight. I’m trying to get a few books together of images from Maryland towns. So I’m gathering what I think are the best images and then having some close friends and family help me edit it down.
This was a fine day of rest and relaxation. And even though an hour was lost it doesn’t feel like it. Now the rising and setting later of the sun is noticeable. And I LOVE IT. By midweek I’ll be working on my tan.
Bring on the sunshine. Photo by Mike Hartley
Well with the good comes the bad and this regular season of Maryland basketball is complete. Not the season that was predicted but predictions are for those who don’t play the game. They played hard this year, lost a lot of close games, and had one of the best defenses in the country. But they just can’t shoot the ball. And it’s tough to win games if you can’t score.
We will cheer for them in the Big 10 Conference championship but the thought of winning 5 games in 5 days is a bit far-fetched. But one can hope. Go Terps.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Okay, I can handle one cold night.
It’s nice to be at peace, with one’s self.
Going to give myself a few more challenges this week.
There is no excuse not to create. You just choose to do something else.
We decorated the house a bit yesterday. My granddaughter had a birthday and St Patrick’s Day is coming. My better half didn’t even realize she had decorations for that one. And my granddaughter also helped put out some Easter decorations.
Given the rain today, and cooler temps and wind tomorrow, I’ll be busy decorating my basement walls with fresh images. The air will be filled with music inspiring the creations. Seeing progress always feels good, and I’d like to see more before next week.
Look closely over the back of the bird in front, there are 3. Photo by Mike Hartley
I just wrote a paragraph about some very uneasy feelings. I’m copying them off for another day. It’s how I’m going to respond to them that is important. I’ll be spending some time thinking this weekend and making some course corrections.
Now back to work.
Random Thoughts of the Day
This might be the first year the spring-forward time change doesn’t hammer me with less sleep.
Just keep smiling. Nobody will be the wiser.
Photo editing is time-consuming. But it’s also very personal so I don’t think I’ll relinquish it yet.
Gibbs isn’t the only one with RULES.
In a few weeks, the sounds of sneezing will fill the air.
How about those Lady Terps beating Top Seed Ohio State. Hell yeah, way to go Womens Hoops.
I’ve been on a sugar rush the last few days and it’s time to put a halt to that. There are a few candies I have no resistance to and one of them is Jelly Beans. The other is Smarties. And low and behold there was a bag of each in the house.
Now on the Jelly Beans when I say a bag I mean like a 1/3 of a bag. Because that is all there is when it’s unopened if you hold it by the end. Don’t get me wrong, they were fresh and great as usual from Brachs but come on. Stop skimping on the BEANS. Give’m up guys.
Keep on Truckin’ people. Photo by Mike Hartley
Trucking along with activities and chores. Took a few minutes to snap some early flower photos. I’m prepping the Chevy for sale and got the interior completed. I’ll finish the exterior on Sunday. Got one offer on it today but will look for a stronger one.
Now if that old Chevy I had looked like the one above you would never catch me selling it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Making something from nothing today. And seeing it take shape is a good feeling.
I will not let this month slip by. I’d like to finish at least 2 new chapters.
It’s ok to ask for help. So I’ve heard.
I sense some power working ahead. Or is that power washing?
March Madness is upon us. I think I’ll use it as a springboard to start playing a bit each day myself.
The state of our union is just fine. Happily married to my original better half and loving life.
So I thought I’d spread the cheer with the shot below. Spring is on the doorstep and summer will soon follow. Summer is the season that brings out the youth in all of us.
You know who gets to carry these monster stuffed toys if you win it, don’t you? Yep, it’s the Dad. Photo by Mike Hartley
The agenda is packed today. And I can’t wait to get cracking at the free spaces in it to capture some images around town.
I’m also going to appreciate the last few days of an old Chevy that has been a trooper. After 16 years and a couple of young female drivers taking their toll, it’s still cranking up every time and getting from A to B and back. It needs a bit of repair I don’t feel like making, a window that is off track and replacing an old motor for the said driver’s side window. A few other things also.
I’ll be getting rid of it in a few weeks and moving onto another used vehicle as our around-town beater later this year. Miata’s are not winter vehicles. At least mine isn’t.
Random Thoughts of the Day
There is a lot to be said for following your dreams. Too bad you don’t realize that till you take action.
It’s a very special day for a very special person in my life.
I’m working on a surprise for someone tomorrow morning.
Looks like it’s going to be one of those years where I’m going to be powering through some pain.
What is one question you hate to be asked? Explain. So demands the Daily Writing prompt.
Let’s see, a few that pop to mind.
Where do you want to go for dinner? Especially when the asker isn’t interested in any other place than their choosing. Otherwise, it’s an OK question.
Could you help me with a computer problem? Just because I worked in the field doesn’t mean I’m an expert on your issue.
I hated answering the same question from different people at work looking for a different answer.
Would you like to go shopping? 95% of the time, not the question to ask me.
Where are my keys? I can barely keep track of my own, I take no responsibility for others.
I can see the conversation between these two. “The whole time I was giving that van a parking ticket it felt like someone was watching me.” Photo by Mike Hartley
I feel like telling the couple below the same thing I’m telling myself. Hold on, spring is coming and summer is soon to follow. We made it through another winter and soon the warmth of the sun and the laughter of children outside again will be ours.
Wanting to be first in line for Skee Ball. Photo by Mike Hartley
A few important tasks were completed this morning and after an errand or two, I’ll have time to create and print. My photo paper stock has been replenished so life is good.
I have neglected to write my children the last few days so that is a priority today.
It’s a Super Tuesday and it has nothing to do with politics.
Maybe I have two desks in my office because I’m of at least two minds?
People are so smart with me nowadays, my own body is even giving me crap.
Time to stop making excuses and pick up the cameras today.
Last Monday night we stayed at this fine Marriott spot in Ocean City. Given the chance of rain in the next few days, I’m glad we’re home this week. I was up early and out shooting, on the way back to the hotel when I got this image about 20-30 minutes before sunrise.
I only stay downtown in the offseasons. This is nice on 15th Street. Photo by Mike Hartley
We had the 4th-floor top right with the wraparound porch oceanfront room. It’s got me looking for our next overnight stay already. I’m not sure where or when that will be but someday soon.
I think we will opt for the older hotel or maybe B&B on the next stay. I have a few ideas.
Today was a beautiful day. Lots of motorcycles out with what looked to be young and old riders. I’m guessing some might have been playing hooky. I got the cover off and took the Miata for a ride with the top down. It was in the mid-60s so it was mandatory. A short cruise but enough to charge my batteries and the cars. The cover was just reapplied, and tied down, in prep for the rain tonight.
The nice weather today reminded me that I should get to work in the yard. I had two huge piles of sticks out front that filled two trashcans that were taken to the back. Got my first cut of the season on the right hand. That early mistake was mine, took the gloves off. The damn thing is still bleeding, must have stabbed it good.
Regardless it’s been a great day. Good health news in the family. A very productive and fun day. Talked to some of my friends and wrote others. And there is 4 hours left to accomplish even more. I know I’d like to get some night shooting practice. We will see how heavy the rains are. Water does make for some nice reflections.
Random Thoughts of the Day
It’s been a while since I detailed my car. That will be my goal this month before I take it to the next meeting.
After avoiding contact with my better half due to illness it feels so good to give her a hug and kiss again.
Why does a change of season to spring automatically start to grow the to-do list?
My better half gave me the date of the delivery of the mulch this year. It’s not that day I’m concerned about. It’s the next several we have to spread it.
This message was rather striking on an early morning walk in Old Town EC a few weeks ago. It also reminded me I’m going to fall far short of reading a book in February. I haven’t touched the one I started in two weeks. I guess I’ll have to move things back or double up in March.
A shop window in Ellicott City. Photo by Mike Hartley
I would like to apologize for not following along with the postings for the last few days. I’ve been horizontal with a bug since Wednesday night and I was away 2 days before that. Hopefully, tomorrow is a better day and I can return to normal reading and production.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Health is everything.
It’s hard to type while shivering.
Despite the poor start, this is going to be a great month.
My sleep has been so disturbed, it’s almost like I’m back working night shifts again.
Do you enjoy your job? So asks, the daily writing prompt.
Yes, I enjoy the hell out of my job now. After 48 years in publishing, I’m now retired and working for myself learning to become a professional photographer, writer, and artist.
It’s a lot of fun, I set my hours. I deal with who I want to deal with. I’m the only person I have to please. I do my reviews and provide my incentives. I photograph what I want, write what I want, and sketch what I want.
No sitting on the front porch for this guy, not yet, at least.
Why? Because everything has its timeline and we get frustrated when it surprises us. Why? Because we have the illusion of control when we don’t. Why? Because hope seems futile till it gets you through some things. Why? Because some people are born bad. Why? Because some people are born unlucky. Why? Because some people make bad choices.
Why Not? Place a bet, everything is a gamble. Why not? Order that steak, you know you want it. Why not? Sleep an extra hour to feel rested. Why not? Live today like it could be your last day. Why not? Share something special. Why not? Do your own thing. Why not? Rise above the rest.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Old is when you saw the NBA Logo play a game.
All the things I don’t know overwhelm the feeling that I know a lot of things. And that is a good thing. It keeps that learning things gear engaged.
My first red car I got a lot of speeding tickets. My current red car has no tickets. But my current red car is faster than my first red car.
I wonder if my kids will laugh at some of the things I collect.
I was thinking back because the daily writing prompt asked me to “Describe the most ambitious DIY project you’ve ever taken on.”
Let’s see, I’ve done the typical home projects like a deck, landscaping, and basement but I did have help from friends with those so I guess that’s not a true DIY.
And then it popped into my head, what I’m doing now is the most ambitious project in my life. I’m starting a new career as a photographer, writer, and artist and I hope to become a professional in each. Yes, a lofty goal, one that will take a ton of work. The time in this career won’t equal the 48 years in Newspapers so I’m under the gun to make my mark quickly.
So I work at them every day. It’s kind of easy in one respect because it’s a passion. In reality, it’s tough as hell because it’s real work. And it’s all me doing each piece. Each day I realize I didn’t start that sketch I thought of, work on that photo project, or complete that chapter in the story I’m writing. So each day I fall a little short of my goals and it’s a little frustrating. But that fades with sleep and the next morning I’m excited again.
And then there are the mornings I’m kind of riding high because of the previous day’s accomplishment when I realize that I forgot to charge the camera batteries as I’m going out the door. A good reminder that it’s a lot of little things that make you good. And also that I’m finite, which is a limitation.
Today is another day to build on the most ambitious project of my life. What more could one ask for? The opportunity to build an original.
The dog’s name is probably Blue. Photo by Mike Hartley
This is another reminder of how much I miss summer. And while it’s warming up a bit it’s far away yet. But I intend to get out and do lots of photography this week regardless of the winter season we are still in.
I was looking at my blogging drafts folder and what a mess. Hundreds of ideas started. Time to weed out that mess and trash, or finish and publish. I guess I got spurred along to do this because I finally cleaned out and organized one of my email accounts and that felt great.
Weeding for effect. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’ve started to look at things and was reminded I’m a bit of a pack rat. So here is to a fresh start of getting things back to a manageable level in a few areas. Cleaning up the photo library, the office, the workroom, and the filing system to start with.
Doing this to kind of restart my start. I got busy and made a ton of progress immediately upon retirement last month. But all kinds of logistics, commitments, appointments, changes, and as always unexpected emergencies left me with unfinished business.
So I’m going to use the few remaining days in February to get my act together.
A few verses I like from a song called Something for Nothing by Rush
No, you don’t get something for nothing You can’t have freedom for free You won’t get wise With the sleep still in your eyes No matter what your dream might be
What you own is your own kingdom What you do is your own glory What you love is your own power What you live is your own story
In your head is the answer Let it guide you along Let your heart be the anchor And the beat of your song
Oh you don’t get something for nothing You can’t have freedom for free, no
Random Thoughts of the Day
Damn good start to the morning.
There is strength in silence at times that is stronger than speaking out.
I miss having a pet.
I’m a resilient son of a bitch.
Experience and life are teaching me some of the reasons people stop writing. I won’t be one of them though. Learning to use things for inspiration.
The Real Me is one of my many favorite songs from The Who. It made me think about who the real me is. Nobody knows the real me. The real me is a bunch of mixed-up voices swirling about my noggin all trying to take control of aspects of my life.
And what a life it has been. One of many joys and trials along the way. One that continues to find new loves, passions, and perspectives on living. One blessed with some great friends and family who have guided and supported me laughed with and at me, loved and grieved together.
At the same time, life has left me saddened, disappointed, dismissed, scarred, hurt, and changed—periods without hope and joy. And I guess that is true for most of us. Life throws us all some pretty good challenges from time to time and sometimes over an entire lifetime.
I feel I’ve developed this internal space that I try my best to shield myself from those negative emotions or disappointments. To find some sense of joy or respect or love that will allow me to keep putting one foot in front of the other. I had to do that to survive, it wasn’t healthy to have that anger, angst, and disappointment inside.
A good friend reminds me often of the quote “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” I find myself evaluating reality more now instead of my hopes or wishes. Sometimes I find some hard information and truths.
As I’ve gotten older the time to hope for change fades. Things are what they are. And I am who I am, which is probably part of the issue. So some changes are in progress and I’m starting to get to a more comfortable spot.
Time and what I do with it now each day is what matters. As the quote at the top of my To Do List reminds me “Make the rest of your life, the best of your life.”
So here is to a good Thursday ahead.
If you are going to drink, drink responsibly. Photo by Mike Hartley
I miss everything and nothing about my job. And I’m fine with retirement after a few weeks.
I miss seeing some of the people as often as I did. But have replaced that and the time I had to spend with others I don’t miss, with people I like is nice.
I thought I would miss being challenged or having a manager to challenge me. Nope, I’m fine with this because I’ve often challenged myself more. And I like being in charge, for a change of pace.
I do miss being part of an organization and people that I thought were doing an important service for society. So I do have to find a way to replace that.
I do miss messing with people who think they know everything.
I miss my office chair, it’s more comfortable than my home one.
I miss watching the power plays, games, and maneuvering people do to get ahead at work.
I do miss having a second home but am relieved I no longer have to commute to it.
I do miss standing shoulder to shoulder with valued co-workers doing difficult things in difficult times. And of course, I miss the fun times and laughter we shared very much.
I miss the “thank yous” after helping people on the job. But I hope to replace that soon.
I don’t miss night shifts.
I miss the excitement of the daily news cycle and deadlines all day long causing a constant flurry of action and reactions.
In some ways, I miss the pressure of having a machine and keeping it running at all times, and if it had a hick-up we had better have it fixed before someone sneezed. No failure to publish under my watch.
I do miss sharing my knowledge with people. Helping them grow and avoid problems.
I don’t miss being stuck in Washington DC traffic or the streets trying to eat my car.
I do miss the prestige of The Washington Post nameplate. But hopefully, I’ll have enough time to be proud of the one I create for myself now.
The elevator lobby of the old Washington Post building. Photo by Mike Hartley
If everyone had the fix for what ails them, the world would be a happier place.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Looking for my fix. Maybe tomorrow.
Toddlers
Wonderful day spent with my grandson. I love them to death at this age, between 1 and 2. They are developing so fast and so cute at the same time. They can also leave you tired at the end of the day. But with a big smile.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Finding the irony in life and people can bring a smile to your face.
Did I hear the pop of a baseball mitt?
Keep looking for those windows of opportunity.
My eyelids feel like old shades that won’t stay up.
I hadn’t listened to some ZZ Top in a while and it was a nice treat to trigger some good memories. We saw them a few years ago at Pier 6 in Baltimore. They still rocked the house. Of course, Dusty has departed and anytime a lifelong band member passes it’s never the same.
That song title made me wonder if anyone does “Give You All Their Lovin’.”
Annapolis MD – Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Tomorrow is the first car wash of the year. I have to desalt the old Chevy before it gets eaten.
I’m in a writing frame of mind.
It was a wild kingdom in the yard this morning. A fox, 2 hawks, 4 deer, numerous other birds and squirrels. Probably that way and more every day, I just don’t see it.
Today was not a day for my creative endeavors, but it was a very productive day. Tons of family planning for trips were made after exhausting searches and coordinating schedules. It’s also tax season so gathering all that info has been almost completed, mostly by my better half but I contributed several things also.
A haircut was squeezed in this morning, some financial planning this evening, and family and friend communications. Two of those were very important because of close friends with ill family members. A good reminder of how precious life is.
Streetlight and early morning dawn on this snow-covered tree made it look like it was in bloom. Photo by Mike Hartley
This is a packed week and may be a good test for me to see how much creativity I can cram into a few minutes here and there. A few days with grandchildren, a day of automotive and power equipment repairs, bank and financial appointments, some home repairs, and doctor appointments to make.
Taking advantage of time is so important. Like right now I’m multitasking by listening to some music, editing photos, writing a blog, and making a few prints, before getting back to a few chores.
Could it be, nah, don’t tease me, weatherman. What is this string of 60+ degree days next week and SUN you talk about? It’s got me smiling already and it’s a week away but I can’t help myself. I’ve had it with winter and the snow that is still on the ground and night temps in the 20s.
I’m ready to cut loose in so many ways. Warm up the roads and tires for some cruising. To find my shorts and tee shirts and walking/running shoes. To step onto the porch or deck with bare feet and feel the warmth. Hell, I might just peel the shirt off next week and start working on the tan. Hell YEAH.
Because sunshine and warm weather just inspire me to be outside. Plus the faster it warms up the faster my local snowball stand will thaw out, open, and no longer will look like the shot below.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Just when you’re ready to give up, DON’T.
Things take time. Good things take more time usually.
Upbeat music, upbeat thoughts.
Let me go charge those camera batteries before I forget and get caught short tomorrow. Cold takes a toll on them when outside for a while it seems.
I got outside before sunrise today. Felt good but a little too cool for my liking. I knew it was going to get windy and blow the snow off the trees so I wanted to get out early.
Shots around in Ellicott City and Woodstock this morning.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I have to work on my patience.
No pitchers and catchers reporting in Maryland today.
That fine line between wet feet and dry is the height of your boots.
My back is sending pain signals earlier than usual.
Keeping my emotional happiness at a high level each day is the key to more productivity. It makes the moments more special, the creative juices flowing, the health better, and a smile on my face. Therefore more is accomplished, and it just creates an ongoing cycle of feel-good.
Yesterday wasn’t that day. But today is starting much better.
It’s an alley I’m familiar with. Photo by Mike Hartley
Dinner and a Maryland basketball game with a best friend Wednesday night was a great way to spend an evening, especially with a comeback victory by the Terps. And then some great conversation, laughs, story trading, and family updates.
Followed that up with both my best friends on Thursday night with a great happy hour or two or three. Last night I just kept my behind inside and fell asleep early like I had planned.
I was wondering how long it would take for weekends to lose their significance being I’m not doing the traditional workweek any longer. I think it’s starting to change now because I’m starting to lose the distinction from other days in the week.
So about a month and a half, when weekdays and weekends started to run together. That’s not too bad. At least I still know what day of the week it is. I wonder how long before I start to lose that distinction.
Random Thoughts of the Day
A day of rest is needed. I believe Sunday looks good.
Dogs wear me out.
I feel the need to do something special tonight.
Anger management – Working on it. A lot better than I used to be but one can always improve.
Like the day itself, the longer it goes the more I feel like a shadow of myself. Tomorrow morning those trees will be as white as that wall behind them with snow.
A pair of shadows against the Columbia Mall. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m hoping to drum up the fortitude to face the cold tonight and do some photography. We will see how that old front-wheel drive Chevy does.
The other day I wrote illuding to switching insurance companies and referred to someone not being on my side. Well, today since they screwed with me after I canceled the policy by taking another deduction from my bank days after the policy was canceled. This has now pissed me off and cost me time. So Nationwide you are now named as my piss poor past insurance company so there is no mistake as to who I could be referencing the other day.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I could use a new office chair. So says my back and backside.
Looks like Comrade Trump is having another bad day. Karma baby.
Read hard, listen hard, question hard, learn.
Getting my photo library in order is a taller order than I thought.
The song Take Me Home came on last night as I started the car to head home from one of my best friends. It brought a smile to my face with that warm thought on a cold night.
I don’t believe I could be comfortable in another home at this point. This place has become so much a part of me that I can’t imagine moving.
Moving would hurt my children I think. I always remember going to my Mom’s house as an adult and there is just something about wandering around the house you grew up in. I can see their comfort level when they come to visit to this day.
We hope to live out our days together here. I hope we can make that dream possible. Because it will always be home.
I’m eventually going to have to hire someone to shovel/plow the driveway though.
I figured this was an appropriate shot being we are getting snow tonight. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Music moves me to move.
Time to change the look of my office and workroom today.
I’ve got to start pushing myself a little harder in my new profession. I’m not satisfied with the results in the first 45 days.
Time for some snow shooting tonight. Now where did I leave my snow boots?
A Happy Valentine’s Day to all. We used to get caught up in the excitement of the day when we were younger. I remember the pressure and feeling like I didn’t get it right some years ago. As we aged, and grew wisdom, we knew it was more important to celebrate the spirit of the day throughout the year and not focus so much on an overpriced commercialization of Love in one day.
Yes, it’s fun to get your better half some flowers or take her to dinner or a gift of her liking, but it can be a waste of money to do it for this day. Everything is overpriced, over-crowded, and overdone.
On the porch of the Lighthouse Club in Ocean City. Photo by Mike Hartley
Some years ago we just started taking a night away someplace local, but on another evening than Valentines Day. I like getting her flowers or treating her unexpectedly. It’s just as important to do this throughout the year as it is today.
Love the vanilla crème doughnuts this time of year. Photo by Mike Hartley
Little tokens of love each day, that’s the best gift.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I seem to get more excited at the prospect of each new day. Appreciation is a good feeling.
The sound of that cold wind outside is not consistent with the warm sunshine coming through the window. Sort of like a head fake in basketball where I’ll be sailing into the clutches of winter.
I had two bags of the Conversation Hearts candy in my hands yesterday. I stood there and put them back down. My better half said she was proud. I’m sitting here thinking I should have bought them.
Pain is the winner again, despite a strong start to the day.
I’m going to admit it, I’m a winter wimp, if there is a choice to go outside for almost anything, and it’s cold I’ll choose to stay in. Especially when it’s really cold like earlier this January. I can hold my own in the summer heat while those around me melt. I just need to make it through a few more weeks and the difficult part of the year will be behind me.
A dusting this morning. Photo by Mike Hartley
I can’t stay warm in the winter. Anything under 40 degrees is not comfortable outside. I’d prefer it be over 50 which is really my minimum tolerance level.
Through the back window early this morning. Photo by Mike Hartley
So a wet, rainy, snowy morning and windy afternoon is a very good reason to stay inside today. But duty calls and a few errands must be run but that will be this afternoon after the flakes stop.
Buds delayed. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Clearing clutter slightly faster than creating it is the key.
You don’t need to change your location to change your view.
I’m on another roll. Lots done before the noon hour today.
I think I have a creative way of learning portraiture.
This was the first Super Bowl I’ve watched from start to finish in the last decade. Working Sunday nights for those years kind of made it just another thing I was missing out on. It was a competitive game so it was fun to see from kickoff to the end of overtime.
Dad showing me the proper grip on a football. Photo by Shirley Hartley
I had just turned 9 in the photo above, we never got to watch a Super Bowl together because he passed just a month before the first one was played. I’m glad I got to watch a few with my son.
Another milestone also in the form of a holiday Monday next week. If a holiday fell on a Monday we were working. Also the Sunday night before the long holiday weekend. I was kind of giddy being off New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. And then off for MLK Day and now Presidents Day.
I find myself smiling and rested on a Monday now instead of exhausted. I look forward to holiday weekends knowing I’m available and can be at events with family and friends.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I thought it was a better-than-average year for Super Bowl commercials.
The more I accomplish each day, the better I feel.
Decisions are just a part of every day. Making the right ones makes the day easier.
A day full of errands, I think a pizza reward is in order.
The day doesn’t have to be Super Bowl Sunday to be super. But we will go with the theme and spirit of the day to keep the positive attitude rolling. Starting the day with some inspirational music to get rolling on some creative endeavors.
A cloudy day ahead with the winds picking up. And that means I better get the strap on the car cover this morning before they get gusting the next few days. And with the temperatures getting milder again I’m going to hibernate for a bit.
I’m still getting used to being off for events like the Super Bowl and holidays. And who knows what might happen over the next 2 months with College Basketball coming to a peak with conference tournaments and then March Madness. I guess we will discover if someone can overdose on basketball or not this season.
So pick out your favorite chair today and get comfortable for the game. Or take your place in front of the snack table and munch out. I think I might get on the treadmill for a few miles during the game to burn off a few calories I’m sure I’ll put on today.
I’m going for something a little more comfortable later on. Photo by Mike Hartley
I think I’ll work on some drawing today and step away from the computers for a bit. That is one of the nice things about having a few different hobbies. If I get writer’s block I can edit photos. If I get tired of cropping, toning, and printing I can draw. If I get tired of looking at 2 dimensions, I can grab my camera and look at 3. If I tire of pressing the shutter I’ll grab the Dremel tool.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd is one of my favorite songs.
I like having a candle lit in the office.
Every once in a while I think about letting my hair grow long again.
I don’t have to have a business to be a professional.
Crossing Into Love City. Yeah I love this little town. Hell, my wife is from here. Got my first real job in newspapers in this town. Started our own newspaper in this town decades later with two wonderful partners. My dentist and friend is on Main Street. It’s great exercise to walk the town. I have enjoyed many walks and meals with family and some of my closest friends.
Where a lot of people smile and say hi or hello. Well at least I do when in town. Photo by Mike Hartley
When troubled or feeling good I go there to walk, or sit or photograph or explore. Or just to chow down of a roast beef sandwich from Duchess up the road while watching the Patapsco flow by.
I can’t wait for it to green up again. Photo by Mike Hartley
The town changes looks so much during the various seasons that I always feel like I see something new. It’s my next project to put together the shots of this over the years and start to fill in a few things I might have missed.
And being its near Valentines day there seemed to be some symbols of love around town.
The seasons are always represented well by the merchants. Photo by Mike Hartley
In some ways it will always be part of my home. We got married in town. Our first apartment was just up the road in Normandy Woods.
Love birds. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s been a place for engagement photos or even wedding events/photos for decades.
Love in a lock. Photo by Mike Hartley
A town where some have generations of people living there or surrounding hills. Not as much as when I first ventured into town in the early 70s, but a good friend of mine who grew up in town, still keeps in touch with a few long time residents.
I bet it’s the place where you see more people holding hands than other spots in the county.
When floods devastated the town from Agnes in the 70s to the 2 once in a thousand year floods a few years ago it ripped a piece of a lot of peoples hearts out. I was in town the morning of the two most recent ones. A family walk from the home my wife grew up in to downtown EC the day of the 2018 flood.
The second one I was out photographing along College Avenue and on the way home early that morning I stopped at the corner of Main and Maryland Avenue by the old Phoenix Restaurant. As I pulled onto Main it was quiet and I just raise my camera over the windshield and snapped a shot of what would be destroyed later that day.
Saturday morning 7/30/2016, the day of the first big flood that came from above. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
I don’t remember feeling so indifferent about a Super Bowl before. I don’t know if its the gambling or the league treating the players like old Roman gladiators, totally indifferent to there health regarding the brain injuries and that settlement they came too is appearing to be a joke. So NFL, take the game and shove it where the sun doesn’t shine.
Finally realized some sad truths recently.
Time to put the cover on the car again for the coming rains.
When you can’t see all the steps to even count them to get to the front door, no thank you. Beautiful home and porch though in Old Ellicott City. And the view is probably great. Maybe there is a back drive up entrance? Then again, taking the trash to the curb might be an effort.
Step right up. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Dear Mr. Fantasy by Traffic is a great early morning song.
When the choice is to take time to get organized or keep creating, I’ll take the creating all the time.
I’m learning a bruised tailbone takes a while to heal.
It’s a “More Cowbell” type of day.
I had the top down on the Miata yesterday. Wind and sun in the hair again. Life is good.
You get some great, amazingly fantastic news. What’s the first thing you do? Asks the daily writing prompt question.
Wow, that is actually a tough one to answer. I was trying to think back to times where great and fantastic news was delivered to me and discovered I have two types of first reactions to this. I guess as I have aged this first is more prevalent.
When this has happened it has caused me to just pause for a moment, to close my eyes, be appreciative, give thanks, smile and think of sharing the news with loved ones.
The second one is more explosive joy of my youth. Sort of like the Michael Jordan fist pump after hitting the game winning shot, or as I recall a time or two just letting out a “YEAH” yell as loud as I can.
The sun is OUT, Hell YEAH. Photo by Mike Hartley
Remember that Waking up each morning is GREAT, AMAZINGLY FANTASTIC NEWS.
There are a lot of people you want to watch you step with. Especially when a foundation of trust hasn’t been established. And even when you think trust is there, many will break it.
Tread lightly and choose your words carefully. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Feels good to get the cameras out each day again.
I’m going to try to eat healthy today. That cheesesteak and tacos yesterday were a nice treat but don’t want to make those a daily habit.
Far too little love in the world.
Back roads are a lot more friendly than the highways around here.
Are there any activities or hobbies you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time? Interesting question from the daily writing prompt.
Probably more than a few. I used to collect coins and stamps but gave up on those a a youth. I used to enjoy bowling but haven’t in many years. I used to play a good bit of basketball but in the last 2 decades it’s been a while between buckets.
This area has outgrew its roads and made motorcycling an activity I gave up to live longer. I used to shoot skeet fairly well in my younger days but haven’t thrown those clay pigeons in a long time. I do miss that sport.
Decided I needed to do some walking outside yesterday and skipped the treadmill. So I took the go cart (Miata) out to Ellicott City, parked at the upper lot, wound my way up to the old courthouse and down by the old fire station. Back up the street to the Wine Bin and back down the street to the Trolley Stop and admire the river for a bit and then back up the street through a couple of back ways and lots.
I sat outside the old Times building and the Stone building at the bottom of the hill by the river which both used to be my offices. But really I went down to see some major changes in the towns where buildings are being torn down for the new flood tunnels and park area I believe.
Lower end of EC. I’d like to see this town bounce back in a big way in the future. Photo by Mike Hartley
The next time I’m there I’m going to try that Milkshake shop called The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar.
Window at the Phoenix Restaurant. Photo by Mike Hartley
It’s also been a bit since having a meal in town so I’m going to have to change that also. More photos from the shoot coming later. Busy morning ahead.
What’s your favorite candy? asks the daily writing prompt.
Short answer – Brachs Marshmellow Easter Eggs. I don’t think they make them anymore.
But it does varies by season. Like now its those little conversation hearts you see during Valentines. Next month I’ll be eating jelly beans and chocolate malt balls.
Summertime some Smarties appear for my birthday and the occasional box of Nerds during the summer to sprinkle on my snowballs every once in a while. Starburst or skittles are a nice summer candy. And I can’t forget the occasional pack of Sweet Tarts.
In the fall we have a M&M season along with other assorted chocolates. Of course the scary Reeses Cups for Halloween.
The winter we move onto caramels and cherry candy canes. Maybe some Cherry Hershey Kisses. Or Krackle bars are good also. And I almost forgot Butterfingers.
The Vigil night with the boys is the bite size Snickers bars to end the evening just before we part company each week.
Do you need a break? From what? So asks the daily writing prompt.
Yes I need a break.
I need a break from doctors. Their offices, their waiting rooms, their imaging facilities, their hospitals, their billing departments and insurance companies.
I need a break from winter. I’m cold and I hate being cold.
I need a break from people who lose their minds behind the wheel and drive like A-holes. They are tempting me to start a new career as Dr. Karma.
I need a break from all the lies, conspiracy theory’s, anger and hate in politics.
I need a break from responsibilities. I friggen retired last month and I’m waiting for that parrothead lifestyle to begin.
But always remember. YOU make your own breaks in LIFE.
And were off into a new week. They sure do roll around fast. Seems like the sun rises on a Monday morning, you blink your eyes and it’ setting on a Sunday night. Last week flew by. Way too much extraneous items intruding on my goals.
But we are off to a good start today. And this week looks like it has opportunities to succeed.
Why not. Photo by Mike Hartley
Each moment is an opportunity that is to be grabbed. Today is a good example. I missed the opportunity to do some photography this morning. But I did seize the time to write and organize and upload dozens of images to my site.
I will just have to double my effort on Tuesday morning and get out early.
Waiting for the starter to say GO. Photo by Mike Hartley
It might not be shorts weather yet but the sun was feeling much stronger today and that boardwalk is calling me again.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Two people close to me are reuniting now.
Boy am I glad I don’t have to do the beltways around Baltimore or DC during rush hours.
In some ways I feel lazy, but there isn’t a need to stay up 20 hours a day any longer so I guess 16 is a few less to be productive in. I feel a hell of a lot better each day though.
Life is a solo act. It might not seem like it but we are all alone.
How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life? Asks the daily writing prompt.
If I were to choose a one word answer to that question it would be “Profoundly.”
Significant events like deaths, early in my life changed me. Some of it made me stronger and other ways it took away confidence and security.
Time changes things over time. For instance the importance of the job over the years took on the shape of a bell curve over my career for me. Early on it wasn’t everything, then it really took off and it did become more important, and then more than it should have. And in the last few years many other things became priorities than the work being done for someone else.
Events give you experience and time gives you wisdom. For instance there is a lot of joy in creating a child. And that joy turns into a lot of wonderful smiles, memories and love in my heart and mind having helped raising them.
The passage of time changes all of us. We either adapt or not.
Every day you have the potential for events to change your perspective. It doesn’t have to be something drastic. It can be simple, from something someone says to you or how look at relationships in different ways from actions or inactions of others.
I just can’t seem to get started today. A few things on my mind. I’m going to have to find the right lube to get the gears moving again. I’ve gotten better in recent years in turning around difficult days. Practice overcoming pain is a good exercise. But the things that bother me mentally sometimes are harder to shake.
Photo by MH
I need to relax and just keep my eyes open, life is happening all around me. Just the simple act of walking through a parking lot can yield results. I might venture out later tonight and try my hand at some evening exposures. I need a lot more practice in that area. Plus I have some pages to fill for a nocturnal project I’ve started.
Photo by MH
I was thinking about doing some writing but I’m not sure I’m going down that rabbit hole today when I feel directionless. Hopefully something will spark me later to at least finish the 2 pieces I started earlier today.
Illustration by MH
There it is, I stumbled on an idea and task and direction that made me smile. So off I go because it doesn’t involve a computer. I’ll return later with the daily writing prompt reply and maybe other inspiration.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m not sure if we change or we just see things more clearly over time.
There are a number of things from my youth I’m glad I left there. But there are some I’m glad I brought along to my later years.
I looked at a couple of Ocean City webcams today of the boardwalk/beach and if you can ignore the month we are in you can imagine its summer with the sunshine today.
Recognizing World Cancer Day by getting negative test results. Life is good.
The Daily writing prompt asks what is something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.
The first question is which to-do list are you inquiring about. I have several. My photography list, my art list, my home and yard list, my personal list to name a few.
I’m getting better at knocking things off the lists I’ve made. It helps me stay organized and avoid conflicts and maximize my time. I’ve learned to break some items down into manageable tasks.
The one thing that I haven’t gotten done in years is to carve a path and grade it with stone to my lower back yard so I can get the tractor down there instead of push cutting that hill. Maybe this year?
There is one more thing that I have been slack on getting to, and that is visiting my parents gravesite in recent months. I’ll have to cure that soon.
A Sunday morning visit is in order. Photo by Mike Hartley
When life comes together and you feel that inspiration or surge of energy or clearness of thought its a great start to any day. And it feels like one of those great ones today. Health is everything and the morning has been good.
Musician on Main St in Annapolis. Photo by Mike Hartley
I was going to say its good to have appreciation for the simple things but health is anything but simple.
Life has turned into one endless series of tests. Ones that results sometime cause such relief, excitement and exultation like an umpire calling strike 3. Turning to the side, dropping to one knee and extending his left arm and then drawing it back while throwing the right fist forward to punch out the batter. (figuratively not physically)
And when the test results are the other way it completely changes your world. Things that were important a couple minutes before fade like a distant memory. Desires set aside years ago become priorities. Having had a few scares like that I’m focused on living those desires and dreams now.
But there are a few weeks each year that pending results kind of preoccupy my thoughts. I had gotten pretty good managing the daemons of the mind years ago after my first cancer, then a second cancer that didn’t go away after surgery and needed further treatment.
I thought I was free but test every 3, 6 or 9 months for years now tell me the doctors aren’t convinced.
Each day forward from there has been a sense of urgency never felt before. Desires to return to what I was I thought I might want to do in life before I took on a career in Newspapers. I was able to finally push work down the list. And a lot of other things.
My goal then was to make it to retirement and enjoy those years. So here we are and I enjoyed my first month immensely. I’m working hard at my passions. But here I am waiting for test results again. Trying to fight the instinct to stop creating and waste time wondering, worrying or wilting.
My thoughts become scattered. I sometime don’t finish listening to a song that I love before my mind will wander. I catch part of a conversation. I daydream and lose focus. A sudden onset of Attention Deficit Disorder.
The fight for control and to regain positive thoughts, creative energy and hard work. Because hard work in passions is good therapy for anything that ails you. So its back to work tonight I go.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Now that I’m reading more I enjoy moving my mothers bookmark along each time now.
I miss playing ping-pong. I’m going to have to do something about that.
When I listen to the Beatles music it takes me back to Art class in high school because our teacher would play them all day. I believe he used to start first period with “Here Comes the Sun” Thanks Mr. Perrine.
When I listen to RUSH I miss two people. A good friend of ours, Dan and Neil Peart.
After a few days of medical stuff, I’m FREE, just in time to kick off a new month and a new spirit. So off I go again to chart a new course. It’s been a very productive day for just regaining my energy again. We lost internet here for about an hour today, so I just substituted some reading.
I’m thinking about Rockfish season already. Photo by Mike Hartley
I made some prints for a friend with a family member who isn’t well. I’ve worked on several prints for my family wall and hope to start my Ellicott City prints this evening.
Life has been good to me on this first day of the month. I’m declaring victory and calling it a day.
As we close out the first month of 2024 I’m looking forward to a good month ahead. But I’m going to institute a few changes now that a lot of logistics that took an incredible amount of time in January are completed.
Sailboat leaving the Inner Harbor of Baltimore. Photo by Mike Hartley
A few goals for the coming month:
Stay out of the doctors offices.
Get out each day and photograph.
Create 3 posts a day on the blog.
Read another book this month.
Finish the pastel piece I started in Jan and begin another.
Upload a few thousand image to my photo site.
Complete a chapter in each book I’ve started to write.
Finish carving for my son and granddaughter.
Get an old vehicle running and sell it.
Finish family wall of images.
Start final large prints for the Ellicott City wall.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Good memories can be sustaining.
There is always a great deal to learn.
Every 5 years, for at least a day or two, nobody can call me full of crap.
Sounds like the Orange One is upset at Taylor and her Swifties.
Fewer words, more words, right words, wrong words. Today’s words – Petal Power.
Bringing some warmth on a cold day. Photo by Mike Hartley
I’m looking ahead to the months of these outside my front door. I know, I must be patient.
I’m having issues holding that heavy Nikon with the busted finger. Photo by Mike Hartley
Random Thoughts of the Day
Time to pick up the pastels again.
I’ll be glad when it’s Wednesday night.
What a year for Baltimore sports teams. Finishing the regular season in first place and into the playoffs. And while both didn’t make it to the Series or Super, they had great years with great thrills for the city and fans. Hats off to the Ravens team, coaches, and organization.
CBS Sunday Morning did a very nice tribute to Charles Osgood yesterday.
I tried something new. I recorded the 49ers/Lions game and watched it early this morning. I figure I saved 2 hours instead of watching it live by fast-forwarding through all the talk and commercials. I’ve done it with basketball but the time savings aren’t as good as they are for football.
A change of perspective is always good from time to time. In one month I’ve had a huge change in perspective in many ways.
Look up. Photo by Mike Hartley
The first would be a change of professions. I’ve moved out of IT work and into the creative fields of Photography, Writing and other arts like carving, drawing and painting. I work on these every day now. They are my new work and love.
Changing how I take care of myself physically and mentally are underway. I’m maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to the equation. Doctors visits and tests are being honored. I’m getting better rest.
Having looked at reality a little harder I also feel a greater sense of urgency given my age and history. And that I’m using as daily inspiration to learn to do things professionally and even better than I once did for someone else.
I realize it might not be instant. I’ve got a lot to learn and a ton of work to do before I might get it figured out and right, but that day will come.
Things change, people change, we change.
Having exited night shift work my schedule is much more aligned with my better half’s. I love it but I can tell she appreciated the time to herself sometimes. But not having to be quiet while I slept in the mornings is a plus for her.
Freedom to pick and choose what day to do things and what time without someone else dictating a substantial part of the week is like having chains removed.
I think my friends are still adapting to the change of me no longer in the daily grind shoulder to shoulder with them. And its got their wheels turning about retirement.
As we age relationships change. I hear discussions of moves among friends and family. Even grandchildren grow up.
I change and I’m not sure how that will affect me and others. I’m trying to embrace it because I think the saying goes “the only constant in the world is change”
Random Thoughts of the Day
January is not ending with my original plan. But Thursday starts a positive streak of production, I hope.
Listening to my body, instead of ignoring it and punishing it. Hope its not too little too late.
Going to be smarter in how I use my time in February.
I’m going to finish one goal of reading a book this month. Next month will be a challenge, a longer book and shorter month to complete it.
In some ways, I enjoyed shoveling this month. The exercise, cool air in the lungs, and snowflakes in the face. I looked across the street at a neighbor’s home knowing he was probably inside looking out wishing he was on his tractor with the plow doing his driveway and helping others as needed.
Unfortunately, he is in his 90s now and unable to get around much and his better half said he wasn’t doing well. A very nice man with a great smile. Always a wave and would take the time to chat for a few minutes if we were out together working. Yes, my better half and I did shovel them out along with another neighbor. But that isn’t the point.
You’re going to need a bigger plow. Centennial HS – Photo by Mike Hartley
I remember the year I had surgery one summer and for the first time in my life, I had to hire someone to cut the yard. I would look out as they cut and wanted to get back out there so bad on my mower and do it regardless that I despised wasting time on a mower. It was the first time in my life I wondered how many more cuts I would have the pleasure of doing. From that day forward I never looked at cutting the yard as a chore.
And now recently I thought about how many more times I would have the pleasure of shoveling my driveway. After not having snowed here in 2 years, getting back-to-back ones in a week was a change of pace but one that I have appreciated also. That was till my back reminded me that I was too old and should be done with a shovel and either get a snow blower or tractor.
We take a lot of things in life for granted for long periods till reality shakes us and we realize things are finite. Surrendering to those devices (equipment) also means my time with them may be limited. So enjoy life as you can, one shovel full at a time or one crank of the engine. You never know when you will be looking through that window at others outside.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’ve been talking to myself a lot for a very long time. Maybe I need a new therapist.
Fandom is a nice thing that can also go too far.
I’ve been wasteful of time in the past, I regret that.
Getting on with life is sometimes challenging. It’s how you balance all those inputs and needs with what you are willing to give others and yourself. It’s quite a dance at times. One that can get quickly out of whack and end up with neither you nor others being happy.
I’ve been struggling with that lately. I need to back off of some things and maybe eliminate a few. It is the last week of the month and I don’t feel the accomplishment I had thought was possible. A couple of unexpected doctor visits and tests which won’t impact next month hopefully and the time spent dealing with the snow and really cold weather.
Have we seen the last of it? Photo by Mike Hartley
I was kind of freewheeling in January anyway because I just wanted to relax for a few days. But I think I’ll add a little structure to February and see if we can accomplish a bit more. I’m going to devote some time to blogging in 2-3 blocks of an hour each. And an hour or two in book writing.
I want to try to spend 2-3 hours a day photographing/editing/uploading/printing. Maybe more if possible. Reading is also going to become a daily activity of at least an hour.
I’ve gotten away from the treadmill each day so that will become a daily habit again just like today. I still hope to have some flexibility. Like when it starts to warm up I’ll do my walking outside. I always enjoy writing early in the day before the sun comes up but I do like splitting up the time working on different blog thoughts.
Food – Had a great meal at BJ’s Alehouse in Columbia yesterday. I love their Avacado Egg Rolls and I had the half rack of BabyBack Ribs with a salad and white cheddar potatoes. And one of those Pizolli deserts, the strawberry shortcake one.
Our server said it was his first day there but he was great. I suspect it wasn’t his first waiter job because there were no mistakes at all. Their timing was excellent and everything was great.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Too many people make up too many rules for others.
I forgot to mention the passing of an early favorite of mine Charles Osgood. He hosted a show CBS Sunday Mornings for 22 years. I’ve followed that since Charles Kuralt started it.
The sheer will of the people will fix it or break it.
If the days you wanted to be ignored and left alone would match the days everyone else is busy or out of town, that would be neat. Hasn’t happened yet but one can hope.
My better half and I still give each other cards for our birthdays, anniversary and at Christmas. We take some time finding the right sentiment inside. And we always add our own to them. So I thought it strange the other day to find a card on my pillow. It wasn’t a holiday, not even near my birthday, anniversary has passed so what is up.
I opened it and it was a retirement card from her and some of the most touching things she has ever written. It felt so special that she expressed thanks for a lot of sacrifices I’m made along the way and the appreciation for them and more. Sometimes a card is much more than a card.
Travel - We tried but failed to get away this month so far. Looks like we will have to make up for it and double up one of the coming months. I’m looking forward to getting in the car and exploring a bit. Even day to day around the local area.
You can’t box up the beach. I don’t care that its winter. Photo by Mike Hartley
Physical Status - I always liked Mr. T in his prediction for the fight with Rocky. He would turn that face slightly with the meanest scowl say “PAIN.” Yesterday I felt like I woke with him in my face saying that. Such is life occasionally. Today is about the same, but I have a diversion coming in the form of my young grandson with the endless motor. So this discomfort will pass with time and much easier now that I have something to enjoy along the way.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Each time I put my mind to it I surprise myself.
Improvise, adapt and overcome is a good attitude not just for Marines but Seniors also.
Setting my goals higher today in terms of print output.
The warm temps coming will be a nice temporary reprieve. I’m thankful.
Ideas galore this morning. Let me go write them down before they pass. Have a good day.
Kick it. Yeah I’m on a drum roll this morning to start my forth week of permanent vacation. I’m continuing to make some positive changes each day. Listening to some music this morning and finding a ton of inspiration. Plus it’s amazing after you have been under the weather for a bit to come out of it and feel the world is at your steps again.
Old shot of adrum set in window of Bill’s Music in Catonsville. Photo by Mike Hartley
Mother Nature is loosening her freezing grip on us slowly now and I can again venture outside without making a sailor take notice with all the cursing I can come up with.
The first few weeks of retirement didn’t exactly feel like it. Not much free time so it kind of felt like the same old routine. I was still and still am adjusting my sleep patterns. When you skip at least one nights sleep a week for 10 years and maybe average 4-5 hours a day for that timespan and your body and mind doesn’t immediately change overnight.
I was beginning to think I’ll never get to all I want to do with all these other things pulling at me in life. Then I remembered something I used to tell myself when I was working for someone else. I’m in charge ultimately.
So lets get to it.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Each time I think I’m though preparing my shore exhibit, I find another print I like.
I hope Lamar Jackson is listening to all these talk shows and commentators who have anointed Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen as the best QB’s in the league. Both of them are at best second in their own conference. Baltimore is going to EAT KC like BBQ.
Some really big companies have some really bad websites.
I have a new favorite day of the week. All of them.
I’m about to find out if Nationwide is on my side.
I blink my eyes, and my kids are grown. I blink my eyes and my career has come to a close. I blink my eyes and WordPress says it’s been 10 years together today. And 2,845 posts later here we are. Doing more then ever and loving each day I get a chance to take a crack at it again.
Keith Weller shot this picture of Amy and myself in our camera room at the Times building on Main St Ellicott City back in 1976. Those 48 years just flew by. But I have a whole new career ahead of myself now.
It was time to get together for a dinner with my oldest best friends last night and it was a wonderful time. An appreciation for that time together is always between us. The silent acknowledgement that time is not on our side now and that we are to savor these events sometimes comes to the surface but we are usually too busy having a good time to reflect on that aspect.
Time to crank up my own publishing machine. Photo by Mike Hartley
I was going to do a food review of where we ate but I’ve started to think about how I want to do reviews and I don’t feel like making anything other than positive ones. So when I think a place is average or maybe below I’m just going to skip it.
The restaurant business is so tough and costly and it might be more of a disservice to a company if you just caught them on not their best day. We are all human, we all have them.
When I like a place a paragraph or two maybe of what I liked. But when its a hit, you will know it.
Lots of things go into making a good meal. The setting/location/view to the staff/service and of course the food. Different things are also more or less important to individuals. For instance comfort is a big one at our age an uncomfortable seat make it hard to enjoy a meal.
So here is hoping our next meal out is a special one that I can share with you all.
It has taken me most of the week to start feeling okay again. I’m sitting here smiling about it because the options are in front of me as they were before but now I have energy/health and a great mindset to move ahead again. Life is great today.
Greetings fellow frozen ones. Outdoors on a wintery day again. The cloths are hung again to dry from the snow. The warm and comfy recliner will soon be visited in between working on a few projects in my office.
I was so pleased earlier when some inspiration and time available just happened to pair up and I worked on a book I’ve started and feel good about what I got done. I’ve read where people schedule their writing times and I just find that difficult.
Lots of times when I sit to do the blog and if nothings coming along I’ll get up and walk away and do something else. Most times I’ll get a photo of mine, new/old and that will inspire a blog and off I go. Most of the time it works that way. But writing for a book and a blog I’m discovering are two different things.
In writing for the book and not using images except from my mind so far. And immediately I found that I can’t sit and write some material when I’m down in spirits. I can knock out a blog on my worst day mentally and still keep it positive for the most part. No such thing in writing books I’ve started so far. Then again maybe I’m trying to write the wrong book, when I’m depressed. I’ve never tried writing something dark.
I hope time allows for me to finish a few works. Don’t know if it will amount to a hill of beans but like blogging, it’s become a purpose.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Snow doesn’t look as deep as it is from an inside window as it does outside with a shovel in your hands.
Try to limit disappointment and then move on.
As is typical. The plow comes down the street as I finish shoveling my driveway. That is just fine though, I’m happy with the job they do in this area with snow removal.
If you look and listen hard, it’s easy to figure out where people stand and their priorities. Now taking that information and processing it can be the hard part for a lot of us.
Sorry about the absence on Monday. I hadn’t been that ill in a while and I’m still only feeling about 50%. My chest hurts, my throat is raw and I lost (not intentionally) some more weight. I feel weak. I messed up my daily posting streak again. That happens when your a one man band sometimes.
That snow shoveling yesterday didn’t help and now my back is giving me fits today. All this reminds me that if you don’t have your health, you don’t have much going for you. That is why I’m optimistic about the half of me that feels better today allowing for some energy for thoughts to share.
Snow melting on barn roof at Howard County Conservancy. Photo by Mike Hartley
Other than that I’ve been flat on my back today pretty much. And that is something I couldn’t allow myself before when working. So it feels good to take care of myself first instead of the job. I did a lot of stupid things for the job for way too long.
Working when very sick. Coming back early from both of my cancer surgeries. Never missing a day of work while doing 11 weeks Mon-Fri of daily radiation. Then the massive overtime I used to put in while on salary. But like I said those were my stupid choices.
They might be leading to some of the difficulties I’ve had or may have in the future. I’ve done a fare share of hard work. I can still remember the back pain I had as a youth from working in the pressroom every so often flying papers off the conveyer, jogging them and loading counts of 50-100 at a time on a skid. Hours and hours of bending over, lift, standing and bending over again.
But such is life. Many have carried greater burdens or aren’t blessed with the possibility of good health either physically or mentally. So no more complaining today. Just turning on some inspirational music now that I’ve missed the passed 3-4 days and getting back in my grove. First tune (Time Stand Still) by RUSH. Utilize each day the best you can.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Chicken noodle soup is so good after your sick. Seems to be the only time I have it though.
When the snow is on the ground you can really see all the wildlife that treks through my back yard.
It’s good to remind yourself of your age when you go out to do something you used to do.
Nothing like pictures of young children enjoying the snow.
Being a good neighbor can be painful if they have long driveways.
I feel an urgency to things. Going to really let it flow soon.
With the wind blowing like crazy the last few days and more to come I thought this was the appropriate shot to use today. Hang onto your hat and bundle up. It’s no summer, spring or fall day outside.
Ocean City Maryland on a warmer day. Photo by Mike Hartley
Even though I’m tired I’m not going to waste this evening. Being I don’t have Peacock I won’t need to spend hours watching football this evening. All the better. At first I was upset but hey if pro and college sports want to move their stuff to pay per view or streaming go right ahead.
I guess they aren’t worried about things like losing fans or merchandise sales. Got to have the TV revenue though. Go for it boys.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’ve worked so long I’m having a hard time fighting the impulse that I’m being lazy when I relax a bit during the day.
I successfully made some parmesan crisps today. Tried a few with Italian seasoning and a couple with Old Bay to see what that might be like with a seafood salad.
The opportunity to shoot some really cold weather will present itself this week. Will I take advantage of it is another question, or do I stay warm?
