Paul Kilmon: A Life Illustrated in Words & Photos: Cunningham Falls

Welcome!

Through my writing, photography, career, and personal challenges, you will discover I am just like you, a person on a journey. My goals are simple, to be healthy and happy. You will learn I have many interests. The driving force for all I do is communication, the sharing of ideas and my passion for laughter. It really is the best medicine and a great stress reducer.

I consider myself a down-to-earth guy, who is just making it up as I travel through life, adding a virtual laugh track here and there to amuse others and myself. I have a friendly personality, which is expressive, warm, upbeat, fun, and positive. I love meeting new people. I thrive on communication, organization, diversity, creativity, and laughter. – Paul Eric Kilmon (paerki)

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Cunningham Falls

Yesterday, I spent a me, myself and I morning in Cunningham Falls State Park (located in Thurmont, Maryland), hiking 10 glorious miles. I was surprised I made it to the Rt. 77 Trailhead. It was a steep ascent, but it was worth every step. I appreciate my time outdoors, primarily when I exercise and meditate.

There was a time when the gym was my religion. I’m not exactly sure when I stopped going, but I never stopped exercising. I like what it does for my body, but value more what it does for my mind, keeping it sharp, which helps me stay focused, and it definitely helps minimize those moments of stress that creep into my life from time to time. That’s why I’m always encouraging people to play outdoors and walk.

What made the morning extra special was the warm sunshine on my face… the mixed terrain (more rocky than flat, with the occasional soft earthy feel under foot)… the sound of the gentle wind in the trees, rustling with their left over leaves from fall… the descent of woodpeckers, one particular owl and, as I got closer to the mountaintop, my need for a hat and gloves to keep me warm.

For a brief moment, I wished I could have shared this experience with a friend or two, but soon realized I needed to go it alone to help me recalibrate my expectations of others because all too often my expectations are too high, which has often left me disappointed. I am working on changing my point of comparison. (Note to self: Less venting. More focus on gratitude.)

To a special friend, I enjoyed our lunch at Up On Market Bistro (more so for the conversation). Although, the food wasn’t so bad (perhaps a tad overpriced). We were seduced into dining. We need to be stronger. They owe us a slice of gluten-free almond cake. You didn’t think I would forget that? Did you? Next time, South Market Sandwich Company for gluten-free sandwiches and Sanctuary: Modern Kitchen for dessert (I promise not to do my usual, purchasing one of everything – I PROMISE). I agree, there is nothing wrong with paying for a ridiculous memorable experience, which can also explain the $600.00 lunchtime wine glass investment from 2017. Do you remember?

We are ridiculous. Together, even more so, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. – paerki

Additional Photos: Cunningham Falls

What would life be like without memories? It’s fair to say, there would be no life at all. Memory is our communication, reason, coherence, our action and more importantly, our feeling. Memories create our path in life, developing our psychology and leading us emotionally.

One of the best ways to create and store memories is with video. These simple effortless little snippets of time create diaries and become perpetual time capsules, which justify our walk on earth, telling all with great enthusiasm… I was here! I mattered! I lived! Please, don’t forget me.

Share your views, thoughts and opinions in the written word. Snap photographs so your eyes can travel back in time, remembering the happy and sad moments that made you the person you were, are and became in life. But, whenever possible, capture video to enhance the memories you leave behind, so that others may pass the essence of your life on to future generations. – paerki

I love photographs! They have this amazing ability to tell stories of fun places, special moments, memorable events, and exciting places. They give us reason to pause and remember friends, family, coworkers and so many others. One photograph can conjure up a flood of memories taking us on a journey. They help us remember the past, enjoy the present and ponder the future.

On a cold and rainy day I love sitting in my living room with a roaring fire, a glass of wine, classical music playing in the background and my many photographs scattered about me. I love sifting through what I call my special collection, which refers to my favorites. They remind me of the saddest and happiest moments of my life. They remind me of challenges and overcoming.

My large collection of images are a testament to a life lived. Life happens all around us so it’s important to collect special memories, and what better way than with a photograph. – paerki

It’s hard to believe I’ve been blogging for more than 12 years. This art form has allowed me to showcase and express my creativity. It has bolstered my confidence (not that is was lacking). At times it has been therapeutic, but more than anything it has given me a much deeper view of the world and how I see myself in it.

I use my insights as a barometer for self-change, which helps me reconcile the past, adapt to the present and navigate carefully into the future. I have enjoyed the roller coaster ride of thought as my hands write it and my eyes see it. As always, I hope you can relate to my stories, appreciate my views, savor the wisdom, reflect on the concepts and, more than anything, respect my friendly and genuine interest in connecting with others.

Find you own voice. Think about writing your own blog. Learn your style, share your views and open a whole new world of possibilities for you and your readers-to-be.. – paerki