My Journey: A Life Illustrated in Words & Photos

Healthy Makes It Happen

2012-01-25T12:00:00.006-05:00

I always welcome a reprieve from winter, not that I was looking for one, and so soon, because for the most part the temperatures have been unseasonably mild (fingers crossed). Sure, we’ve had a few cold days, but not to the point of being uncomfortably bitter. However, I’m sure they are on the horizon as we inch our way towards February.I’m holding out for one major snowstorm – a few feet will

Rainy Day Musings

2012-01-23T08:00:00.015-05:00

MaturityWhen I was in my twenties I hand the tendency to act without thought – I was completely impulsive! In my mind I was footloose and fancy-free. I did as I pleased, never deliberating on the potential outcomes, which at times were less than desirable, filled with disappointment and regret. All speak to my immaturity. However, lessons were learned, and too often the hard way. (I’m sure

We All Wear Masks

2012-01-21T14:30:00.003-05:00

I’ve never been a fan of clowns, even though I was often the class clown in grade school and have even dressed up as one on Halloween, but only on a few occasions. I’m sure film and television have ruined what I thought was good innocent fun. By no means am I coulrophobic (yes, there’s a word for the fear of clowns), and I think it’s great when others, especially children enjoy them, but for me

Keep Hope Alive

2012-01-17T14:30:00.016-05:00

Another weekend has come and gone, moving along more quickly that I would have liked, but I made the most of it – down to the very last second. I’m not one for standing on the sidelines for too long, waiting to see what develops. I make things happen! Keeping busy is important to me.That’s not to say I don’t like a bit of downtime too. Couch potato moments are equally valuable. However, these

When I Grow Up (Art In The City)

2012-01-15T23:02:00.011-05:00

Additional Photos: When I Grow Up

30 Minutes Of Stillness

2012-01-13T11:00:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was one of those amazing days, peppered with pockets of stillness and peace. They don’t happen too often, but when they do I devour them like my favorite piece of chocolate, slowly while appreciating every morsel until next time.Late Wednesday evening, into the early hours of Thursday morning, it rained. It was heavy at times and the intermittent wind gust only made it that much more

Living Life Outdoors

2012-01-09T10:00:00.004-05:00

From time to time I weigh the pros and cons of city life, on occasion dreaming of the country. I imagine myself living on a quaint farmette in a beautiful home overlooking hills, valleys, lakes and trails, an Olympic-size pool and a few cottages for when friends come to visit. I would have animals – horses, a few pigs, cows, chickens, and of course, dogs and cats. No, Hannah, I didn’t forget

What A Dollar Can Buy

2012-01-04T09:21:00.009-05:00

I’ve been patiently waiting for cold weather to arrive, and received a preview a few days ago. I took to the Stony Run Trail with a friend, trying to get him to be more active in the new year. Thus far he’s committed to a hike and a walk. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for more. I like my “me” time with nature, but always appreciate company too. I’m all for benign banter between two people

Happiness and Joy

2012-01-01T23:00:00.010-05:00

Yesterday into today, I felt the love, or at least good intentions from those excited to say “Happy New Year!” Just like me, many were eager to put their best forward, wishing anyone and everyone happiness and joy.I spent a good part of my New Year’s Eve outdoors hiking trails and conferring with nature. It was important for me to garner some quiet time to reflect. I took my meditation indoors

Let Go

2011-12-30T10:00:00.007-05:00

Moving forward, it pays to look back, retracing steps to see where we are on our path in life. If you are a list person like me, it’s important to review goals, as well as the extreme high and low points of the journey, making comparisons to see how you can better increase your successes, while decreasing the failures. There’s no way to alleviate those burdensome tests of our resolve, as some

Who’s to say…

2011-12-21T23:00:00.016-05:00

Here’s to the winter solstice! I spent my day communing with nature, hiking trails and appreciating the majesty of the winter terrain – naked trees, patches of frozen water, and desiccated flowers – a world painted in brown. It sounds awful, and it is in a way, but there is still beauty to be found. Hibernating trees allow me to see more of the sky.Today marks the beginning of one of my

A Year In Review

2011-12-21T00:05:00.000-05:00

It was a wonderful year. Here’s to 2011. May 2012 be even better – for all. Cheers! – paerkiAdditional Photos: A Year In Review (2011)

The Perfect Day

2011-12-19T12:04:00.011-05:00

It has taken me 46 years, but I finally saw “It’s a Wonderful Life” and on the big screen! I made it a double feature, coming back later in the day to see "The Wizard of Oz.” This past Saturday will go down in history as one of my favorite days because it allowed for a trip down memory lane, afforded me an opportunity to create new memories, and even provided a window into my future.After an

Monday Morning Meditation

2011-12-13T09:26:00.010-05:00

Three trails in three hours on a cold Monday morning was exercise at its best. It was the perfect way for me to begin my week, while meditating on the themes of nature.A run on the Jones Falls trail, a walk alongside the Stony Run stream, and a hike on the path at Herring Run proved useful to my mind, body and soul, providing the balance I needed to keep the total me healthy, happy and strong in

Poinsettias

2011-12-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

Additional Photos: Christmas At The Conservatory

The Love Month

2011-12-11T09:11:00.006-05:00

I look at the month of December as one long festival, a deserved liberty to celebrate our past year’s achievements, as well as our challenges because they no doubt made us stronger, while growing our resolve.Over the year I’m sure many of you rewarded yourself by taking the incidental long lunch at work, a personal day here and there, called out sick, vacationed and even did the occasional happy

Goodbye. Hello.

2011-12-01T00:02:00.002-05:00

Where did the time go? It flies by more quickly than I would like, especially as I get older (as I am led to believe by my friends of advanced years), thus justification for making each moment count.Each day really is a gift, and we must always remember this by showing our gratitude, perhaps with a prayer or a good deed, but always with a smile toward friend and foe. I mention, foe because all

My Weekend... Beautiful

2011-11-28T09:38:00.000-05:00

Additional Photos: A Walk To The Christmas Market

86,400

2011-11-25T23:38:00.016-05:00

One more Thanksgiving for the record books, happy to have a special day to proclaim my gratitude for a life that’s not always perfect, but keeps me moving forward because what else is there, and of course, beggars can’t be choosy.As with all of us, there is triumph and challenge and for some, there is more of the latter, but that just means you have to go deeper to look for those things that

Chasing Autumn

2011-11-21T00:05:00.002-05:00

It was the perfect fall weekend, spending it outdoors as often as I could. A mix of sun, and clouds, and intermittent cold stiff breezes just added to the momentum. I love walking in colder weather, drinking something hot – tea or hot chocolate – to keep me warm. It’s nice when I have company, but this weekend was all about me communing with nature. It allowed for meaningful meditation,

He Is Love

2011-11-19T10:42:00.005-05:00

I recently learned of a friend’s passing. The following were my immediate thoughts, as posted on my Facebook wall:“Too young to die: There’s so much to say about you, my dear sweet funny friend. Often misunderstood by the masses, but to me you were an open book. Maybe that’s because I took the time to read between the lines. I wish you had made a different choice. There’s so much I wish for

Charles Village (Autumn)

2011-11-06T00:15:00.004-04:00

Additional Photos: CV (Autumn) In action: Paul in CV

The First Day Of November (Is Always The Same)

2011-11-01T21:30:00.004-04:00

The first day of November begins as it always does, with recovery from the night before. It was a fun night, with my red eyes, sore throat and achy muscles telling me so this morning.Halloween came and went, leaving behind a wealth of memories. It was innocent fun amongst friends, gallivanting from scene to scene to check out the many costumes, one more outrageous than the next. There were a

The Photos Don't Lie...

2011-10-31T11:25:00.004-04:00

And they tell the real story! An adventure that is significant and will be long-cherished for years to come, especially when I’m old and gray. Yes, the images of October connect the dots of a beautiful month filled with friends, fun, and laughter, and as always, good conversation too. I enjoyed savory sustenance, intoxicating spirits and exceptional entertainment - the most memorable, seeing “

It’s The Season For Mums

2011-10-31T09:00:00.004-04:00

The mums are back at the Howard Peter Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and looking just as regal as last year. I was saving a trip to the Conservatory for later in the week, but as I walked by on Sunday, the delicate architecture called my name, and in I went to enjoy what could only be described as serene; each flower standing in attention in magnificent splendor.I can’t help but

A Perfect Autumn Day

2011-10-30T22:00:00.013-04:00

It was a perfect autumn day. Is there such a thing?! There was for me! Recently someone asked me, “How do you distinguish one beautiful day from the next, when the sky is blue, the sun is shining bright and the temperature is good enough to hang outdoors?” He went further, “I like reading your blog, but I don’t get it! A fall day is a fall day. I think you are making this stuff up.” (I

An Autumn Afternoon

2011-10-29T00:27:00.013-04:00

A much deserved fall day was just what I needed, providing a burst of color for my soul. Thank you, friend for a beautiful afternoon. - paerkiAdditional Photos: An Autumn Afternoon

Peace and Goodwill

2011-10-24T10:00:00.017-04:00

I took a walk on the Jones Falls Trail to meditate and ponder my next move in the game of life… I was elated to get a call from a friend I hadn’t seen in two years because she’s been traveling, happy that we could pick up where we left off (now, that’s friendship)… An evening dinner at Joe Squared Pizza proved delicious. I was there last year and was disappointed because of the limited

Walking Alone

2011-10-24T09:30:00.012-04:00

Weekends come and go so quickly, especially during the fall months. Of course this is just my opinion. I base this theory on temperature alone. I’m always trying to squeeze in as much outdoor activity as possible before the cold weather settles in because I know it will be even more difficult to entice my friends to come out and play in a few months.I enjoy being at one with nature - it’s my

Now Is The Time

2011-10-22T21:00:00.005-04:00

Fall is getting better and better with each passing day. The temperatures during the sunlight hours are enough to bring anyone comfort and joy, and at nighttime – perfect sleeping weather. I’m appreciating those extemporaneous walks too with special friends, enjoying each other’s company while talking life, love and the pursuit of happiness. There’s a special feeling one gets this time of year

A Fall Fix

2011-10-19T13:37:00.015-04:00

I was looking for a fall fix on Tuesday, enticed by the summer-like weather of early afternoon. The temperature was a comfortable 72 degrees, and the sky a bright baby blue and filled with a gorgeous sun. There were intermittent breezes too, arriving just when I needed them. I was definitely in my comfort zone, and all the while thankful to Mother Nature for her magnificent gifts.I made a

St. Michael's Catholic Church

2011-10-17T10:00:00.000-04:00

The weekend has now faded into the past. However, this was one of its highlights.Art is to be found everywhere. When I look at these photos I think about all those involved with the creation of this magnificent structure – from the community (immigrate families) who helped raise the funds, to the architect who designed it and the bricklayers and stonemasons who built it, and to the countless

Favorites From A Happy Sunday

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Additional Photos: Sunflowers & Kilgore Falls

My Time To Atone

2011-10-10T03:00:00.011-04:00

Friday I woke up to a perfect day. The sun was high in the sky and bright, and the temperature a warm 78. It was enough to tantalize and encourage the laziest of people outdoors. I’m typically receptive to Mother Nature’s tease, but not this time around. I elected to stay indoors. I surrendered my phone, computer and television for a good part of the day, and opted for a book and music

My Fall…

2011-10-05T10:05:00.018-04:00

…has been wonderful - thus far.Happy hour with old and new friends, talking endlessly, while laughing at the mundane… A pit stop at Starbucks to pick up a hot chocolate and then walk through the neighborhood of Roland Park on a chilly wet night… A hike on the Stony Run Trail in the early AM, meditating while taking in the subtle changes of a new season… A walk through Hampden on a cold day,

Peaceful Protest

2011-10-03T08:28:00.018-04:00

I’m not a fan of the bumper sticker, but understand a person’s right (need) to be heard, especially in today’s world. I appreciate those who attempt to improve the odds through peaceful protect and what better way than with a bumper sticker. What do you stand for? (I discovered this car in Hampden during a walk. It was a beautiful fall day – cool and crisp. Thank you, friend, for sharing

I Am Mr. Sunshine

2011-09-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was feeling less than myself. I think most of my friends are reacting the same way. Much of this has to do with the weather. It has been depressing. I love me some cloudy days and rain, but when the sun only shines a few hours each day – like a flower, I begin to wilt.I often write about rainy days on my blog, always appreciating their purpose. I really do love them, but we’ve

Zion Lutheran Church

2011-09-27T23:05:00.008-04:00

Additional Photos: Zion

Baltimore Book Festival

2011-09-26T10:28:00.018-04:00

Additional Photos: 2011 Video: A Brave Noise

I’m Ready For Fall

2011-09-22T21:40:00.010-04:00

Out with the old, and in with the new. Summer’s end is close at hand with the Autumnal Equinox officially arriving on September 23. That’s tomorrow! Are you ready? I am!It’s been an eventful season for many reasons. Want to talk rain?! I can recall summers past, meteorologists talking drought conditions and local governments encouraging all to conserve water (which we should always do –

Summer's Final Show

2011-09-21T11:00:00.001-04:00

A Late Summer Walk

2011-09-12T21:31:00.008-04:00

Additional Photos: Summer

Weber's Cider Mill Farm

2011-09-11T18:33:00.008-04:00

Additional Photos: Weber's

It’s A New Day: Time To Yield

2011-09-11T11:53:00.003-04:00

Days of rain are now just a memory for me, but for others the reminders are still there as people wait for floodwaters to recede so they may start to rebuild their lives.I can’t begin to imagine their heartache, but my thoughts are with them, and I know they will persevere. That’s what we do in life as Americans and as people of the world. We survive and move forward. We cycle through the good

Rain Stories

2011-09-10T02:56:00.003-04:00

VulnerabilityIt was a miserable week for many, especially for those traveling to and from work, for parents picking up their children from school and for students who are out on the street waiting for a bus. Let me not forget those who are still recovering from Hurricane Irene.Days of rain can be overwhelming and inconvenient, creating cabin fever for a select few and for others a feeling of

House Sitting

2011-09-07T08:22:00.000-04:00

A two-week house sitting assignment includes spending time with three cats that are remarkable in every way. They are warm, funny, bright, friendly and charming to their core. Most of all, they are full of love and show it to everyone they meet. They definitely bring a bit more happiness to my world. - paerkiAdditional Photos: The Happy TrioRelated Posts: Quiet Company, Mrs. Kelly, Wide Open

A Sunday Drive

2011-09-05T00:10:00.002-04:00

It was the perfect day for a Sunday drive and that’s just what I did, heading north to York, Pennsylvania with a special friend. She soon travels to Russia and I take this time to wish her a safe and joyful journey. I look forward to your return, and just like we did yesterday, we’ll enjoy a leisurely Sunday drive once more and I’ll be all ears to hear your stories, hoping one day we’ll travel

Find Your Joy

2011-09-02T00:21:00.008-04:00

Summer’s demise – it’s just around the corner. Yesterday, I spent the early morning hours hiking through the city, enjoying the last of the summer flowers. It was a 12-mile journey, and with it came a visit to the library and art museum, an afternoon walk through the lovely neighborhood of Homeland and an evening dinner, celebrating friendship through food, wine and conversation. There was

The End Of August

2011-08-29T09:07:00.015-04:00

What If? August – a month to remember. It began not as it always does with hot humid weather, but with unseasonably cool conditions, which was enough to make anyone suspicious. It was a dream come true, and even on those days when the temperature spiked, going into the upper 90’s, the humidity remained low at less than 50%. Nighttime was best, requiring no air conditioner, but an opened

We Shall Do It Again Soon

2011-08-23T01:00:00.003-04:00

August has never looked or felt better. As I walked into my living room yesterday morning I saw the curtains catching the breeze from outside. I was immediately drawn to the window, curious about the temperature. As I got closer I could feel the coolness in the air, and it was delightful. Sunday’s mixed bag of weather was intense, beginning with overcast skies and ending with evening

Happy Eyes

2011-08-21T00:10:00.014-04:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and what I saw today was remarkable. I walked with happy eyes. - paerki Additional Photos: Mount Vernon

Go Play In The Rain

2011-08-19T00:17:00.019-04:00

It pays to look at the weather before leaving the house, but then again, can you ever really trust a meteorologist? The sky was bright, sunny with intermittent cloud cover when I left my apartment to go hiking. I made a pit stop to pick up a friend and no sooner after when we arrived at the trail did darkness begin to consume the heavens. Shortly after, it began to thunder, and then the rain

Walking - Talking - And A Whole Lot Of Squawking

2011-08-17T00:25:00.008-04:00

Yesterday was the ideal day to be outdoors, especially in the evening. My Tuesday began with a midday walk on the Stony Run. You’ll find me mentioning this trail often in my posts because it’s so close to home and the perfect area for outdoor meditation. I am never bored because on any given day there is a new discovery (a new plant, flower, bird, etc.) that piques my curiosity or I meet a

Another Weekend (Just Around The Corner)

2011-08-15T00:15:00.015-04:00

A bottle of wine and a new read (White Asparagus)... A late night trek to a dark place, near an open field to see a meteor shower, which failed to deliver, but the company and our laughter created much joy in my heart, leaving me a keepsake in time to last forever... An impromptu trip to Washington, DC... Waking up early to rain, watching it fall, while listening to Bach in the background and

A Walk Of Hope

2011-08-12T00:30:00.014-04:00

It’s August, and you know what that means - hot, sticky weather, but not yesterday. It was the perfect summer day, not too hot and lots of sunshine, and the humidity - less than 40%. It’s hard to believe, but on occasion Baltimore gets a reprieve from Mother’s Nature’s oppression this time of year. This day demanded I escape to the outdoors, for many reasons. My frustration from the day

Friendship: A Work Of Art

2011-08-11T00:08:00.016-04:00

Tuesday evening I was visiting a friend, sitting outdoors on her lovely terrace admiring what can only be described as a work of art. Today marks the 3-month anniversary of our labor of love in the “terrace garden that could.” Can you believe it, Hannah? Three months! We were adventurous with our acquisition, exploring all options to create the perfect garden that would last all season, and

My Baltimore

2011-08-09T10:00:00.013-04:00

I sometimes find it hard to believe this is Baltimore, but it is! The photos below reflect “my Baltimore” and how I make it work for me. Dear Reader, I hope you are finding your happiness in the city too. - paerki City Life - “When you look at a city, it's like reading the hopes, aspirations and pride of everyone who built it.” - Hugh Newell Jacobsen Related Posts: City Life - Communities That

A Crusader For Justice

2011-08-08T00:30:00.009-04:00

It was a beautiful weekend and I enjoyed every minute of it, embracing the fresh air every chance I got. Much of what I did was haphazard, and on occasion that suites me just fine. There were some unplanned conversations too, and a few misunderstandings, but that always makes life a bit more interesting. Don’t you think? Good and bad, communication is important, and it’s always been helpful

Unplanned

2011-08-06T17:45:00.004-04:00

An early morning tea on the terrace… A leisurely afternoon hike on the Jones Falls Trail… A walk through the conservatory to gaze at colorful flowers… A late evening stroll through my neighborhood only to end up at Sherwood Gardens… And finally, a bit of pillow talk by phone, to replay the day – lucky me. It’s crystal clear – sometimes the best adventures are simple and unplanned. - paerki (

Butterfly Of Beauty

2011-08-05T16:22:00.012-04:00

Additional Photos: Butterflies

Nonstop Beauty

2011-08-04T09:40:00.001-04:00

An early morning walk on Tuesday set the tone for what was to come my way, taking me on a journey that would lead to all things beautiful. It was nonstop pleasure, and there I was at the end of the day – exhausted, but still excited, and in a heartbeat I picked myself up to head outdoors once more to take in that, which always leaves me perfectly content, relaxed and most of all, happy.Monday,

I See Beauty

2011-08-03T09:32:00.000-04:00

Additional Photos: Nonstop BeautyRelated Posts: Let's Do It Again Soon, Day Tripping, Favorites From A Recent Walk, Plus One, What Makes A Family, Wide Open Spaces, Beautiful Creatures, Back To Graffiti Alley, My View From The Sidewalk, Doors, Murals

A Fresh Start

2011-08-02T00:56:00.017-04:00

July ended as it always does, with me welcoming my birthday. This year’s celebration was modest, but still memorable and full of vigor. I feel myself fortunate to have the love of many who passionately go out of their way to ensure my day is special.I feel a bit compromised when I have to turn down invites, and sadly that is what I did this year. Thank you, Michael and a few other dear friends

It Just Keeps Giving

2011-07-29T12:01:00.000-04:00

July is coming to an end, and I decided to give some thought to the month I was born, reflecting on a life lived and still in progress.I don’t need to write much because a picture is worth a thousand words. My photos tell the real story, picking up where my written communication leaves off. They speak of not sitting on the sidelines, but embracing life - rejoicing in that which must never be

Happiness

2011-07-27T00:12:00.020-04:00

My view from the window was that of a happy butterfly, dancing effortlessly from flower to flower, working hard to pollinate one of Mother Nature’s exquisite gardens.That picture of perfection would be telling of an evening that can only be described as beautiful. I spent it with one of my favorite people, one of the many individuals I value most in life, staying always close to my heart. He

A Summer Shower

2011-07-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

A reprieve from the heat! I was more than surprised to see it rain yesterday afternoon, but thankful for the reduction in humidity, if only momentarily. Summer showers are the best because they are quick to provide relief – but not always. They are known to have the opposite effect too, intensifying what’s already too much to handle.We’ve had some sweltering days, and I’ve come to terms with

I Walked With God

2011-07-25T00:30:00.004-04:00

It’s been an intense week, and that’s putting it mildly. Mother Nature has been less than kind, with temperatures exceeding 100 (the highest to date – 106). However, we’ve been fortunate to have relatively low humidity. I consider this a blessing.Many have been consumed by fatigue, drained by heat exhaustion to the point of incapacitation. I’m usually somewhat passive to the extremes,

I’ll Be Around For As Long As You’ll Have Me

2011-07-23T12:14:00.018-04:00

With friendships we look for each to last a lifetime, but then again, does anything really last forever? There is so much uncertainty and instability in the world. Change is rapid, and guarantees? There are none. I see a common look shared by those around me. I see it in your eyes, upon your face – the urgency to know… Are you true? Will you be there for me? Can I count on you?It’s so easy

Artscape 2011

2011-07-19T22:52:00.009-04:00

Wow! Thirty years of Artscape in Baltimore. It’s hard to believe, but impressive that we’ve been able to maintain this event for so long, and free no less. It’s not to be taken for granted, especially during these challenging economic times.I was a latecomer to this festival, making my first visit in the mid 90’s. It was as it’s always been – energetic, eclectic, fun and chockfull of what we

Wishes And More Wishes

2011-07-19T21:00:00.004-04:00

Happy BirthdayI don’t know you personally, but then again, I feel like I have known you forever. I believe we met through a news feed. You obviously liked what I had to say, as it probably resonated with your own personal beliefs, thus you sending me a friend request. (That’s what’s amazing about Facebook, meeting new people who share our interests and, more importantly, who care about the

Testing The Waters Of Change

2011-07-13T16:22:00.001-04:00

There are days when I think I can give up city life, retreating to the country for solace, living off the land, while nurturing my passion for what I love most – nature. There’s a peacefulness to be found like no other and with each visit it lingers just a bit more. Perhaps these jaunts into the country are a window into my future or an escape from reality - LOL. No matter what, they are

We Can Do Better - We Must

2011-07-13T14:30:00.003-04:00

As I go about business in my everyday life, attempting to stay current in all things relative (politics, world events, etc., and dare I say, even in the mundane), I cogitate on the sum of my personal choices and how that feeds into my successes. I often focus on my individuality too – my overall identity and how I see myself in the world.There are times when I contemplate the perceptions of

Let’s Do It Again Soon

2011-07-11T12:08:00.007-04:00

The weekend wasn’t long enough, but I made the most of it by spending time with a few cherished friends. It began Friday with a walk in the rain at Fort McHenry.With a plus one by my side we utilized the Sea Wall Trail, exploring all things outdoors: the Patapsco River, the sky - with its looming dark clouds, the grounds covered in exquisite green trees, birds in flight with a few resting (a

Hold True To Self

2011-07-08T08:30:00.007-04:00

Life it can be a strange existence, friend, especially with its many twists and turns. Just when we think everything is going well it throws us a curveball. Somehow you have always managed to survive, remaining hopeful, purposeful and true. You were resilient in youth, and age has only made you stronger. I haven’t seen you in years, but I know this to be true by the company you keep and from

Problem Solved

2011-07-06T09:30:00.005-04:00

A walk on the Jones Falls Trail, a hike on the North Central Railroad Trail, and a drive through parts of Pennsylvania proved fun and solved the problem of what to do during a long weekend. Actually, it was a two-day exploration into all things outdoors, spending time on the JFT with Brian, and the remainder of my adventure with, Hannah.A discussion of current events were on the menu and the

Day Tripping

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

I’ve traveled often – throughout the United States and abroad, for personal and professional reasons, making the most of my fate every chance I got. I always attached an additional 2 to 3 days to my business trips, creating the quintessential mini-vacation. It was, to say the least, the perfect opportunity to spread my wings and fly. It was a win-win for my employers because I otherwise never

Favorites From A Recent Walk

2011-06-29T12:30:00.002-04:00

Additional Photos: A Leisurely Walk To The LibraryRelated Posts: If You Could See What I See, Chasing Beauty, Mural - Mural On The Wall, Doors

If You Could See What I See

2011-06-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Monday, I journeyed outdoors in the early AM for a walk on the Stony Run Trail before heading downtown to a writing seminar. It was a peaceful morning, cloudy but cool. It was the best possible way for me to begin my week, which allowed for meaningful meditation. I reflected on last week, vowing to make this one even better, and with that a smile was born.The seminar was cancelled, but that

Of A Certain Age

2011-06-27T00:01:00.001-04:00

I must confess, I am in love with a group of women (and two men) who redefine age. They are living life on their terms, flourishing in a world that doesn’t necessarily regard people of a certain age.There are no slackers here, but positive individuals with a can-do spirit, who continue to make a difference. They set the example of how to live, making the most of each day by keeping busy –

I Will Remember You Fondly

2011-06-20T14:30:00.011-04:00

Today is the last full day of spring. Tomorrow the summer solstice occurs at approximately 1:16 PM. I must admit I don’t want spring to end, but as they say, “all good things must come to an end.”Yes, I had a few complaints, especially when the forecast called for intermittent showers, which turned into days of rain (I don’t put a lot of faith in the weatherman – I mean, weatherperson).

Plus One

2011-06-17T00:01:00.001-04:00

Tuesday afternoon was adventuresome, with me spending it outdoors in the open air with my pal, Hannah, as we absorbed the majesty of wide open spaces, fields of green, rivers and dams containing an abundance of wildlife, and the best of all, conversation that was at times warm, funny, and endearing, but consistently throughout purposeful with amazing insights.Ours was the perfect day as we made

Perfect

2011-06-15T00:32:00.011-04:00

A trip to Port Deposit enhanced an already perfect Maryland day.Yesterday I spent most of my early morning at the Enoch Pratt Free Library‘s Central location, in the Maryland Room (one of my favorite spaces in the building – quiet and full of history) with my laptop researching jobs. I took a break to meet a friend to discuss opportunities at University of Maryland. It wasn’t too long after

I Am Making It Work For Me

2011-06-13T12:50:00.010-04:00

Thursday was quite exciting, venturing outdoors in the early evening to do a bit of bird watching on the Jones Falls Trail. However, prior to that excursion, I spent a few hours gardening with a friend.My friend Hannah’s garden is thriving. Needless to say, it’s her love and care that are doing the trick. Like me, she has a green thumb and an eye for all things beautiful. I guess it’s easy to

Who Says?

2011-06-07T00:01:00.004-04:00

Lunch at Belvedere Square, a walk around Homeland to enjoy the peace and beauty of the water lilies, and a hike on the Jones Falls Trail was just what I was looking for on a gloomy Monday (Many will be surprised that I get gloomy, but I have my moments too).However, what made this day memorable was seeing two nests containing the distinguished yellow-crowned night heron. They are remarkable! (

Adventures

2011-06-06T22:14:00.006-04:00

I’ve embarked on a few excursions during the past few days – planned and unplanned. However, the best have been off-the-cuff without any time constraints. They are by far the best. (Michael, it’s time you indulge, learning to leave your cares behind, and your watch and cell phone too.)I’ve been promising (or shall I say, threatening) my friend Linda with a visit. I finally made it to her home

What Makes A Family?

2011-06-04T10:48:00.009-04:00

There are many ways to define a family. It’s fair to say, blood is not always thicker than water. There is no one answer to this complex question. It ultimately comes down to those you choose to include. If you can love unconditionally, setting aside your judgments and medieval philosophies… If you can escape the notion that one size fits all… If you can celebrate diversity, appreciating

Wide Open Spaces

2011-06-01T00:01:00.003-04:00

How lucky am I to appreciate the simple things in life?I set out with a friend to do our yearly trip to the Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery for us to pay our respects to those brave men and women who’ve served our country proudly. It was just as I remembered – hallowed, bringing stillness to my world. It helps me reflect on the deeper meaning of life and why we must all seek to live it

Beautiful Creatures

2011-05-31T15:40:00.001-04:00

Back To Graffiti Alley

2011-05-31T13:19:00.002-04:00

It wasn’t on my agenda, and happened by chance that I was walking by what I call, Graffiti Alley (near the corner of North Avenue and Howard Street). Just like my first visit, I was blown away by the enormity of it all. The shapes, colors and organized chaos draws anyone in, creating curiosity and conversation.This time around I met others who were just like me, feeling energized by this

An Early Evening Drive

2011-05-27T20:20:00.001-04:00

Orange Poppies

2011-05-27T15:42:00.013-04:00

Touch The Sky

2011-05-24T11:45:00.006-04:00

A friend and I took to the outdoors for a walk – talking, laughing, learning, growing and enjoying a day filled with meaning and purpose. The sun was shining brightly, and the clouds - so close to the earth we thought we could reach out and touch their splendor. We sat near a pier eating fruit and vegetables while continuing our conversation. It was a good day! Thank you, friend. - paerki Go

What If?

2011-05-24T11:13:00.005-04:00

All hype, but no rapture. What a letdown! Not that I was looking for it to happen or even believed it would for that matter, but I did find myself in a contemplative mood on the purported day. Malevolent messages doused in fear and delivered with arrogance are certain to turn me off, leaving me disengaged and on the warpath to rebellion. It’s been that way since I was a young boy growing up

Embrace The Rain (1 of 2)

2011-05-20T00:05:00.001-04:00

My best walks are often in the rain. Dressed in a raincoat and hat I took to the outdoors to explore all things wet: droplets of water resting on leaves, puddles to jump in, etc. What adds to this pleasure is when the rain stops and the sun bleeds through the clouds. It’s perfection, affording me a feeling of renewal. Embrace the rain. Allow it to cleanse your spirit, finding a smile after.

Embrace The Rain (2 of 2)

2011-05-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

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Try Relocating

2011-05-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

House sitting for a friend was like a mini-vacation, proving you don’t have to travel far to find peace and serenity. All it took was a bit of relocating. It was wonderful spending a few days amongst my friend’s favorite things: art, music and books. What I treasured most was relaxing in his terrace garden to read, only to retreat to the indoors to listen to classical music with his friendly

The Terrace Garden That Could

2011-05-13T13:32:00.012-04:00

It was a mitzvah of love between friends, setting out to create a little oasis in the city to relax in during late spring, and summer and early fall. What we achieved is vibrant, inspiring, and meditative. This modest, elegant little terrace garden has with it the power to make a bad day better, but you must be willing to yield to its significance - worth. Dare to gaze its way and find

Simple Beauty

2011-05-09T11:00:00.002-04:00

Nature's amazing! Never take it for granted. Yield, enjoy and live longer. Don't forget to thank Mother Nature by doing your part to take care of the planet. Preserve, protect and honor that which is our greatest asset. - paerkiAdditional Photos: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10

A Mother's Day Walk

2011-05-08T15:45:00.004-04:00

To Mothers and Motherly Women - today is your day to shine. Thank you for listening, your heartfelt advice and those wonderful warm hugs. Let's all remember that appreciation is a gift that costs nothing, but worth more than you'll ever know. Thinking of you, BP. - paerkiAdditional Photos: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10

Press On

2011-05-04T16:00:00.005-04:00

What a day! Yesterday, I took to my neighborhood for an afternoon walk, expecting to embrace beauty, but got more than I bargained for with a hefty dose of pollen that saturated my sinuses to the point of excess sneezing (a total of 54 sneezes over the course of 2 hours). My eyes became swollen and red, and my throat itchy and scratchy, causing my gag reflex to kick in, which of course produced