Category: Wisdom
-
“Cacophony: A band parents story.”g
My next door neighbors, Clifford and Joyce Ingram’s raised 6-children, who were born two and three years apart. When their eldest child Cynthia began playing the drums in the local elementary school band no one expected her siblings would follow in her musical footsteps. As the years passed their home was filled with the sounds…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Enlighten.”
Enlightening moments in time brings life into focus. (M. J. Leake) After thirty-nine years of marriage, three adult children, one hysterectomy, and a husband I share a love with that make me giddy as a school girl when we have a date night. I’m have become aware that I cannot control what I cannot hold or…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Express.”
Do you love to dance, sing, write, sculpt, paint, or debate? What’s your favorite way to express yourself, creatively? I use words creatively in sentences, paragraphs, short stories and soon to be novels. Writing is my passionate form of expression rooted deeply in my emotions forged from my past responsibilities. I move forward into my future…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Brave, heroic, courageous, and daring.”
The above words are used to describe acts done by a person that if given a moment of thought many people would not perform for any reason. A person is considered brave, heroic, courageous, and daring because they did what they were supposed to do. (M. J. Leake) WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Risk?”
What would your daily life be without risk? Most people try to avoid risk and some at all cost while many people take a calculated risk. Since the beginning of time risk has evolved with insurance to cover death, injury, property and just about anything else. Eons ago someone cracked an egg ate the yolk…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Loyalty.”
Loyalty is determined and measured by who you interact with over time. Loyalty and friendships are determined by time. Loyalty can be a long-term commitment in a relationship. Loyalty is earned, appreciated, gained, and returned. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Ascending.”
Life is like ascending a mountain one foot after another to accomplish what is desired. Standing atop of an accomplishment is a personal goal and time to reflect upon the journey it took. After ascending and conquering any of life’s challenges builds confidence to propel you to handle whatever life puts before you. WordPress daily word…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Succumb.”
Succumbing to life’s temptations keeps you from being your best. Succumbing to the bitterness of life closes your mind to reconciliation. Succumbing to the fear of learning leaves you with a closed mind that never expands.
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Cloaked in darkness.”
A 5-year-old girl in a playground stops to look at the flight of a butterfly. She runs around mimicking its movements to understand the butterfly’s flying motions. Several years later she learns the basics of flight and is mesmerized enough to become an aeronautical engineer. Aluel Bol http://hotinjuba.com/south-sudanese-first-female-pilot-weds-a-polygamist-photos/ Many of life’s mysteries are cloaked in…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Fraud”
The fraud you do. The fraud to deceive. The fraud to trick and cheat. The fraud for your personal gain. The fraud committed in darkness will one day see light. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Exceptional Mistake.”
Mistakes are a part of life because life comes with morals but not application instructions. Mistakes of the heart usually provide a second chance. Mistakes are failures to learn from while building the knowledge and stamina to try again. So, mistakes will be made but don’t ever be afraid to try. Mistakes become exceptional building…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Inflated elastic beauty.”
The elastic balloons cover the grounds as far as the eye can see. Ground crews hold lines as the balloons are inflated reaching heights towering towards the sky. Thousands of photographers and spectators gather every year to witness this the 46th year Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the visuals are always memorably mesmerizing. Just about…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Fashionable Beauty.”
Hiking a forest or desert trails with only the sounds of your footsteps crunching the ground quiets your soul to experience a believable sense of silenced spiritual connection. Natures natural landscapes expose and excite the emotions that are neither superficial or tamed. It is the genius of Mother Nature. No one can deny the emotional…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Popular outdoor activities interest continues.”
For baby boomers, it is believed that upon a certain age exciting, interesting outdoor and athletics activities are limited, curtailed, or not done based on age. However, for the active baby boomers, those assumptions are being destroyed with a vengeance. Remaining young in your heart, mind and more importantly, your body’s health is the popular…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Focused, divided attention and multitasking”
The term “laser focused” is associated with academics and athletics. To reach this level of concentration takes months, years and decades of mental and physical training. Some people believe multi-tasking is an attribute and advantage when parenting more than two children. But, multitasking comes with a cautionary tale of wisdom. “It is better to devote your…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Humanities pampered planet?”
What would our planet look like if the extinct land animals were to return? Would we make room for them to live in the wild? Would we stop clear-cutting the land allowing extinct animals to live in the wild? What would our planet look like if the extinct aquatic mammals and animals were to reappear…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Leaf, needles, and a forest.”
Hiking the trails within the National Parks, National Forest, and National Conservation Areas can produce a feeling of irrelevancy for whatever is going on in the world. Standing motionless staring at enormous Ponderosa, Jeffery and Sugar Pine trees with Douglas, White, and Red Fir trees in the distance, within a forest of green blocking the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Mighty is the music of our lives.”
Mighty is the sound of instruments to create the music of our desires from within our soul. Without the sound of instruments to create the music from our hearts, would humanity be calmer or would we be more violent? Mighty is the music of my life, surrounding my heart and soul of who I…
-
“Social media crumbs”
Social media produces journalling crumbs of our past. Crumbs for those you chose to see the highs and lows of your life. Wisdom can be gained from the crumbs of our past. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“An iconic American road.”
I was traveling south along Nevada route 95 when I wandered into Las Vegas to visit family and to check out Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area. When I told my uncle of my, intentions, he thought Red Rock Casino where after a great buffet dinner, I toured the casino and discovered a sports bar with eighteen…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“”Penchant for poo.”
As a child growing up, I always had Labrador Retrievers as pets, and one of my chores was picking up after the dog. When I became an adult, I swore never to get another dog to avoid picking up poo. My kids grew up with cats a lot easier to pick-up after. Several weeks ago…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Disobey.”
I learned very early in my childhood before I started school that acting bad or being bad brought about a spanking or a scolding at the least. When I began school the report cards had a section labeled “disobeying,” and based on previous scoldings I knew never to have that box marked. One of my…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Sympathetic Peculiarities.”
The peculiarities of life and death manifest itself before, during, and after stressful painfilled tragic events. Personal reflections and contemplation about life, its meaning, and understanding its purpose are our thoughts during these times. Remembering the past, appreciating and enjoying the beauty of life itself is the goal we all can understand. Sympathetically remembering the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Overcome.”
The word “Overcome” is over used, because everyone’s daily life is filled with moments, hours, days, months, and years of challenges. Without challenges, life will become boring and lackadaisical, and who would want to survive such a life? Whenever feeling overwhelmed and challenged, always remember this time will soon pass. (M. J. Leake) WordPress daily…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Anticipated Crescendo.”
As a traveler, I have encountered many others who’s mentality like mine is filled with the anticipated experiences of the journey and destination. The journey has numerous crescendos of discovery around the next corner, whats over the hill, and viewing an infinite horizon filled hope and anticipation. “A finite mind limits their imagination to travel.” (M.J.Leake)…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Elevating my knowledge of West Wendover NV.”
My travel mission was set to photograph the Bonneville Salt Flats with a refuel top off in the town called West Wendover, NV en-route to Reno NV. However, it’s been my custom to stop at the visitors center of all towns and communities. I was greeted by both of the two wonderful ladies in the photo below who…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Educated?”
The word educate is applied to every travel destination I encounter. There is something to learn no matter how many times I have visited any location. In the US just about every community has some form of fall celebration, and many are called October festival to raise monies for charities local communities, but more directly…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“I am Pricelessly, Critical, to Continue.”
My last posting “Enamored with nature,” apparently was my 1000th blog post on WordPress. 🙂 My priceless blog life began 2013 when I signed up for a WordPress site, but I was critically involved in my retired lifestyle and the incredible outdoor activities of Southwest Florida to focus or develop a daily schedule to write.…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Enamored with Nature.”
After viewing and capturing photos of the natural beauty in Yellowstone National Park, I found the Flagg Ranch Campgrounds located along the John D Rockafeller Parkway in between Yellowstone National Park and five miles north of the Grand Teton National Park entrance. The campgrounds $40.00 fee was the steepest cost I had ever encountered for a…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Rhyme or Reason?”
Children who become teenagers and eventually adults are a wonderment of untold measurement. (M.J.Leake) As the days, months, years, and decades pass, with mothers day, fathers day, birthdays, and holidays gatherings the opportunity for love to be expressed is important. However, do not wait until the opportunity to say “I love you,” Make it happen during…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Heart Mountnain, Japanese-American Confinement.”
I love history and consider myself an amateur historian of American History, so when I entered the Cody Wy visitors center to see what the area had to offer, my interest was peeked to learn of a nearby Japanese confinement memorial. I was eager to tour the site located 12-miles northeast of Cody Wy…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Travel reflections in a Cody Wy Walmart lot.”
Some retirees try to recall memories and thoughts of their adolescent and childhood years. If they are able, they spend the second chapter of their lives fulfilling those dreams of years past. (M.J.Leake) Reflecting on my 30 years of travel mostly via a motorcycle, I have encountered thousands of people who have used every type…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“My Homage to Travel Dreams.”
A retiree who accepts their status will become a happier person going forward into the second chapter of their lives. While many retirees remain in their past, never reflecting on their future. (M.J.Leake) As a child did I dreamed of flying or traveling around the world after reading about Amelia Earheart’s adventures and reading the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Unfurl and Synchronized Traffic.”
Depending on where you live planning a trip from your home to travel across town can easily be accomplished depending on where you live. In the major metropolitan cities along both the east and west coasts of American, it can be a challenge of a life time to travel 10-miles in less than a…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Carousel of Life.”
The carousel of life cycles through many stages hopefully surrounded by family, friends, culture, and an environment shaping your life forever. Along the way you develop desires, want’s and love’s, influenced by what you see and experience during your formative years. Sometimes, setting in place goals and expectations for the rest of your life. But, life’s…
-
“Humorous moxie.”
Our eldest son Geoferry organized and paid for a private dining room in the exclusive up scale restaurant “Alain Ducasse,” inside the Dorchester hotel in downtown London to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Initially, I was against the event believing Geoffery should save his money, as I would be content with dinner at home with…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Dare-Devil Great Grandmother.”
Six months ago, I was with twenty-one of my family members to watch my youngest great-granddaughter tandem parachute from a plane 12000 feet above the airport to celebrate her 21st birthday and entry into the US Army. My son and his wife Corinna were not happy, to say the least about their daughter taking such…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Spring Symphony!”
There was a united symbolism as the band members walked from both sides of the stage to their seats for their premiere spring symphonic performance. Everyone in the audience eagerly stood to applaud their entry. Once seated, the female conductor entered onto the stage from the left bowed to the public then quickly turned and…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Good Morning Foggy Haze.”
I awake with a foggy haze, covering my eyes, I stumble to my bathroom to begin my day. When I reach out for my toothbrush, I looked in the mirror my eyes opening to see my reflection in the mirror, and I smile when I remember, it is my day off. Still groggy but happy,…
-
” I begin my travels anew.”
The term “explorer” has been attached to people like Ferdinand Magellan, Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus, Lewis, and Clark and hundreds of others. Today’s traveler/explorers use terms like nomadic, wanderlust, digital nomads, and overlanding. Most people “Google” every destination imaginable and explore a continent, country, city, town, province, from the comfort of a chair and with…
-
” Opening your gate of lustful desires to travel.”
Within some people is a gate closing off a lustful desire they refuse to open called travel. Lights of curiosity shine along the creases tempting your wishes, but fear and comfortable complacency secure the gate and the dream dormant within you. Talking about or taking action to fulfill your desire is often criticized and in…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“A collection of July’s daily words.”
A thoughtful writer can be a passenger with a quill and pen, tethered to a desk, plucking ideas of an original savage plot or caper with character arcs sailing along scampering and dashing to become personalities to love or hate. WordPress daily words
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Patches covering magical molds of clay.”
You are a magical mold of clay, forever developing to become what you want to be. Overcoming your fears allowing dreams to discover what is over the next hill or around the corner expanding the imagination of many thoughts and ideas shaping your magical clay mold. Reflecting upon your past, who you are, where you…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Serendipity.”
It was a sunny Sunday morning as I waited in traffic for the light to change when the sounds of tires screeching interrupted my music. I instinctively peered into my rearview mirror to see a female on a bicycle dancing to music playing on her headphones unaware of the threatening sounds of injury as the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Creatives, creativity, create.”
The human imagination has an unlimited capacity for creative ideas of any skill, form, and type beyond unknown insightful visions. Creatives can spend many years or a lifetime developing, and hone their creativity to satisfy the yearning of their insightful concepts and soul. For some creatives, their passions are not known immediately lying dormant within…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Against all odds at any age.”
Many baby boomers remember the 1973 exhibition tennis match also known as the battle of sexes when Women’s tennis champion Billie Jean-King defeated male chauvinist Bobby Riggs. When Yvonne Hobart walked onto the European pickle-ball court, in Helsinki Finland for the championship to the applause of cheering fans, it was all 512 residents from Hallam,…
-
“Crisp proud parents.”
Julius and Doretha Jefferson drove seven hours from Pittsburgh PA to West Point NY, to attend parents day at the US Army’s Military Academy. After a night in the local hotel, they awoke early for breakfast and took the short drive to the campus. They walk into the stadium, to climb the stairs into the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“The Uniform.”
There are many types of uniforms from school, scouts, military, civil service, and their omnipresence is visually striking capturing the attention of everyone. Uniforms are clothing representing an organization, a team, and for many who look upon, raising moral standards and expectations with respect. The optical sight of a uniform can have a negative and…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Distances and Images.”
A tragedy brought us together, but serendipitous events spawned our meeting. My heart beats slowed in response to your beauty my eyes witnessed My voice stuttered as I introduce myself, yet I cannot remember anything else I said. But, I will forever remember your voice saying yes to meet for coffee after our work. We…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
” The Band; Brass, Drums, and Reeds.”
Every band member in the marching and orchestra bands maintains a solidarity based on the instrument they have played their entire lives. Those who play the Trumpet, French Horns, Trombones, Baritone Horns, and Tuba considered themselves the essential rhythmic soul of the band. The woodwinds considered themselves the projected voice of the band giving rhythmic…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Portion.”
To excel in what ever you want you must have desire and ambition to separate from those who wish to succeed utilizing a trace of ambition and a portion of desire. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“A detonated heart mourns and grieves with tears of, sorrow, and despair for a lost love.”
Over the centuries the village of Paliseul Belgium survived the horrors of the thirty-year war, several bouts with the ravages of the plague, and cholera. By the early 1800’s the village population of men dwindled from 67 to 8, and five of whom were in their late 40’s. Out of necessity, the eight village elders…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Radiating calm and coolness.”
Many years ago during my childhood, I was always my mother’s accompanier. If she went to a funeral, of a friend, I went. Evening events at the church, I went, and to pick up parts for my father’s gas station before auto parts stores delivered, I always went. I was 9 or 10 – years…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Survived to wander.”
Many people feel adrift in a mass marketing capitalistic world we all live within. However, some people or catapulted with a desire to wander nomadically. Wanderlust has been described by many as a form of spiritual mentality. It is usually suppressed but, can be reprieve born out of changes good or bad within their lives.…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Unmooring to Ascend.”
A writers’ emotions are sparked and influenced by reading novels, their dreams, and many other inspirations. For the past two or three years, I have followed the online travel blogging adventures of two pair of couples who recently transitioned from RVing to begin their new adventures upon the ocean and waterways. Their adventures had me…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Notorious Farce.”
When I was asked to speak here today, I was reticent because for the past three years I have looked upon you all seated here as my family and we all have shared many hours of conversation debating every topic imaginable. I believe I received the nickname “Notorious,” for my frank and direct conversations with…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“I have no qualms on a precipice.”
After two months of preparations, working out at a gym and buying $987.94 worth of backpacking gear. We are on the John Muir trail in Northern California and have been hiking for two days. But, for the past two hours, we have sat on a precipice overlooking a valley into the Sierra Nevadas at just…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“A chateau’s final party and goodbye.”
After fourteen months of treatments for my illness, the doctor advised me that my fate was final and hospice would be my last destination. For several days I was filled with dreaded fear and depressed from the doom and gloom news, but decided not allow bad news to stop me from seeing Paris one last…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Pursuing.”
By pursuing the definition of you, which should last a lifetime, you must be open-minded of your past and present, for a better future. Pursuing, someone, something, or destinations is a part of your future. Pursuing dreams or passions are mandatory lifetime goals. Life without pursuing is a slow death. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Temporary.”
Temporarily I will become a better person. The person I was yesterday was temporary. Temporarily, I exercise to feel better. The person in my mirror is temporary. Temporarily, I drink until drunk. The person I awoke to is hungover temporarily. My life, family, friends job, are for a lifetime until death. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Better,”
Each day is supposed to be better than before. Each year is hopefully better than the past. Every decade maybe better than before But, the person in the mirror, the reflection you see should encourage you to be and do better. So, a better day, year and decade starts with you right know. WordPress daily…
-
“Lifestyle, Panicked and None.”
The WordPress prompts can inspire and initiate thoughts of the past, present, and future. For me, the words lifestyle, panicked and none are associated with my current lifestyle when I panic knowing I will not live long enough to read all of the books in my lifetime, yet none are as important as what I…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Control?”
Control is a powerful word, meaning authority to guide or manage something or someone. But for me, the word instantaneously brings to mind 1987, Janet Jackson’s mega-hit with the signature song “Control.” Thirty years ago the song and its accompanying video were the anthems for many teenage girls wanting to spread their wings and divorcing…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Apprentice.”
When I was newly assigned, my heart was filled with pride and honor, but, quickly I recognized it was I who was the apprentice and intern who learned to appreciated the honor it was to represent, you all. I have reflected upon my times here in the field with a company of men and women…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Avid.”
As a child, I spent most of my life outside and unbeknownst to my parents, on nights above 32-dergrees I would sneak out of my suburban Minneapplolis MN bedroom window with a blanket to stare up at the stars twinkling in the sky. In the first grade, I was excited to become a Cub Scout,…
-
“Earth Day Sunsets.”
As the sun sets on another yearly earth day celebrations around the world including protests marches to bring attention to climate change. One fundamental aspect that will never change is the sun rising and setting every day whether we care for our planet are not. WordPress photo challenge
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“The 50th Wedding Anniversary.”
Hello, my name is Johnathan and tonight we have gathered to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of my parents. My parents have a foundation of friendship and a passionate love for one another for which their lives together as husband and wife has evolved through many of life’s tragedies and celebrations. Before they were married,…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Spikes of life and death.”
The beginning spike of life is birth, followed by spikes of your first word, walking, and maybe your first day of school. Spikes continues with your first best friends, first loves, completing school, college and or entering the military. The spikes of discovering a passion, developing a friendship to last a lifetime, with a marriage,…
-
“My little girl’s backyard fun.”
On a rainy Saturday, I was seated in the library reading Jane Eyre enjoying my afternoon tea, and biscuits when thunder, roared over the house with a streak of lightning flashing across the sky. I stood, approached the window to peer out onto my prize winning Sheffield England topiary garden. My sight paralyzed me with…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Journey Unravel.”
Usually, a journey takes someone from one location to another, so what is a personal journey? Within the mind, a personal journey begins with imagination, a dream or idea, driven by desires, fueled by a passion for achieving a goal. It takes fortitude and perseverance to remain focused on a journey in the face of…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“A child’s blind tenaciousness, and a parent’s denial.”
Within seconds of Charlie’s birth, the doctor, and I was shocked to see his dark brown eyes searching the room, his surroundings and finally fixating on me. That moment seared into my memory, heart, and soul for the rest of my life. He was a healthy baby with strong lungs only crying when hungry or…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Prudent kids on the cusp of being champions.”
We all have gathered her for our annual sports awards banquet to honor and celebrate the mighty, mighty, Bulldogs who are champions again. I want to recognize and applaud all of the parents, who provided pre-game, half-time, post-game foods, and snacks. I want to personally express my thanks to Mr & Mrs, Borinski, for the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Dense.”
The density within a photograph can capture and reveal woodland landscapes, a field of flowers or a large school of fish. My photos encompass multiple items within its landscape. The Caloosahatchee River that flows south past Fort Myers Fl, The Fort Myers Marina, two river islands, two cross-river bridges, multi-level apartment buildings, building rooftops, palm…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Pausing now for Later?”
I need to. I should. Maybe I will. Check it later. Later is pausing, possibly never to appear. WordPress daily word prompt
-
“Ordinary Parent.”
Katherine Humphrey’s is a mother of two, a three-month-old son and Shelby her 4-year-old daughter. After placing both in their bedrooms for afternoon naps, she settled in at her kitchen table to sip on a cup of herbal tea. She suddenly overheard Shelby coaxing “Wilbur” their 6-year-old most docile cat to take a baby bottle.…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
A motorcyclist’s ordinary day,
I have traveled across the US via motorcycle for well over twenty years along the two-lane asphalt, dirt and gravel roads tying the small towns of America together, like knots of a rope. During all of my travels, I have seen and encountered a lot of amazing people and sights to accept every day I…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“A Journey’s expectation.”
Several hours ago we were seated at our dining room table Loretta, and I sat next to one another holding hands, sharing kisses as our excitement mounted about our retirement journey. Three weeks after a gala retirement party held in our honor along with several post-retirement events hosted by family and friends our flight is…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“The Roads Taken.”
The photos of the roads I have taken vary widely from Aligator Alley near the Florida Everglades to the Alaska Highway, interstate 70 in Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska and the Canadian Rockies near Banff. For me, all of the photos provided me with scenic views of the roads I have taken. WordPress weekly photo challenge
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Instinct.”
I’m no hero. I acted upon instinct pulling Mrs. Harris from her car after she collided with the fence. Everyone says I’m a hero, but I don’t fell like one. I just did what I was supposed to do. People call us heroes, but we know who we are. We are men & women who…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Ruminating and Swarm
It was a chilly spring evening as Floyd, and Pegg Harkins’ sat rocking in their chairs watching the sun set behind the dark green mountains of the Beaverden, West Virgina. You know Pegg, I’ve been ruminating about our graduation celebration when it was held in the afternoon outside behind the school house. Do you remember…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
‘Doubt.”
Doubt is an emotion resting on the foundation of fear slowing the momentum to move forward on your initial decision. Doubt and hesitation are similar allowing fear to enter any decision. Yet, doubt is a part of the safety for oneself and others, and once assured, the initial decision should move forward. WordPress daily word…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Hesitate.”
Hesitate, and the moment passes. Hesitate, and you miss the opportunity. Hesitate, and you will become regretful. Hesitate, and your dreams will not become a reality. Hesitation is a consideration as you continue through life. Hesitation is fear while remaining confident knowing you have the experiences to overcome while building your character and knowledge. WordPress…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Desire.”
My desire to write and blog is usually divided equally, but as of late, only one has taken the forefront of my life. Desired priorities to develop, create, organize and write a short story novel divides my desire to blog. WordPress daily word prompt.
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Glitter Child.”
With my grandmother crafting Easter Baskets we use glitter sprinkled on the gifts, candy, and toys. As a child multi-colored glitter sparkles light everywhere. When I find the glitter bottle, I marvel with the look it makes in the bathtub. When flushing the toilet glitter swirls towards the bottom with many colors. Glitter on ceramic…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Embarrassing squat.”
It was a hot July the 4th holiday, and several of my neighborhoods were gathered at my home as I hosted a Bar-B-Que. One of my, neighbors a young couple in their mid-twenties who were three years into their marriage with a two-year-old child attended. Since the other couples in attendance offspring were in college…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Sounds of Silence.”
Many years ago I participated in a stress management class where I gathered the knowledge of learning to de-stress to live a more peaceful life. When the teacher who taught the morning class returned after lunch and stood before the class of 30-40 adults who quieted and watched as she stood in silence for the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Expectations, Stress & Achievement.”
The human imagination of expectations usually increases the stress of many people. To achieve successful imagined expectations, it takes discipline and dedication. Initiating a detailed written schedule, any imagined expectations can be achieved. Once expectation is achieved, there is an emotional exhilaration and decrees of stress. Expectations increase stress until achievement of expectations brings…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Cleaning.”
Timothy and Susan Crawford were married thirty-nine years when on Valentine’s Day, their oldest son Jason asked his college sweetheart Meredith to marry him. Meredith said yes, and they planned a June wedding. The two dated for five years, yet waited until they finished their post doctorate degrees before discussing marriage. The each shared rooms…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Resist.”
With the first month of 2017 in the review mirror, many New Years resolutions have fallen prey to various forms of temptations. For those who want to sustain their resolutions, I recommend stating the phrase from the popular television show, Star Trek; The Next Generation’s formidable enemy the “Borg,” “Resistance if Futile.” Using the phrase…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“2016 Nomadic Adventures & photos Part #1,”
It was the 1st of April when I decided to purchase a vehicle to replace my 1991 Ford Explorer, or as my adult son called her, “The Exploder.” He and several close friends believed that upon my retirement six years prior, I should have purchased a new car. I gave it some thought but buying…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Wedding Invitations,”
I attended two weddings accompanied by my special someone who excited my mother with the possibilities of our marriage one day. When my mom attended the second wedding, she discovered my special someone passionately kissing one of the groomsmen the relationship ended. I was a groomsman at the third marriage, and my mother was my…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Exquisite
My name is Sylvester Williewood, and the Mercantile Finance Corporation has employed me for thirty-seven years. I began my career in the mail room, and I have risen to become the vice president of the corporation. I’m currently in negotiations with another financial institution which has offered to hire me. **************************** The regularly scheduled Monday…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Unseen.”
I close my eyes to behold our wedding with the beauty we shared I close my eyes to observe our honeymoon, and I smile I close my eyes to see our 47 anniversaries. I close my eyes to feel our love, for our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I close my eyes with tears of joy,…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Capable.”
Growing up in Miami, during my college year’s I easily maintained a 4,0-grade point average whenever. To pass tests, I imagined calmly strolling along South Beach in Miami Fl with the warm eighty-degree temperatures surrounding my body. But today my mind drifts to the woman who stole my heart, soul, and mind. I spent the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Someday,”
Someday, I’m going to gain the opportunity I seek. Someday, I’m going to repair the air conditioner. Someday, I’m going to paint the house. Someday, I’m going to install the ceiling fan. Someday, I’m going to repair the garbage disposal. Someday, I’m going to refinish the wood floors But, today I’m going to sit and…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Cling
I’m a wife to a wonderful husband of 12-years, a mother of beautiful twin girls age 4, and a 6-year old boy. By 5:00 am, I’m enjoying my first cup of coffee and, I sit in silence to a quite home and I’m looking forward to the twins afternoon nap and mommy time. I have…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Uneven.”
During my four years of college, I maintained twelve college credit hours per semester, six during the summer including twelve hours of lab work per month the two semesters before graduation and during the summer, I held a part-time job of thirty hours a week. When I interviewed for employment with several biomedical companies before…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Infinite
The infinity sign indicates continuous possibilities. it is limitless or endless in space. It is impossible to measure or calculate. It is never ending like the love everyone seeks. It is universal, for humanity. It is the creative spirit that is infinite. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Love Specific.”
It has been thirty-seven years of marriage, yet when I graduated college with a degree in English Literature with a fellowship to attend the Iowa University creative writing program for my masters of fine art. I was extremely happy, and although I had not held my degree long enough to marvel at my accomplishment, Johnathan…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Float. A short story”
Kevin and Katelyn Crawford ages 48 and 49 are a couple with four children ages 6, 8, 10, & 12. They are a very active family with all their children participating in some form of after-school athletic activities. They amaze their friends and neighbors as the two float through a five day work week, with…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Crossing.”
I imagine the incredible permutations of the root word, “cross,” and the various meaning and uses in the English language are incredible. Of course, immediately the root word implied religion with the many variations of crosses and its implication around the word. However, the word “cross” is used in the sports of boxing with a…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Tempted.”
As the new year begins many people will commit themselves to something. Whether it is a healthy lifestyle in the form of eating better, working out, or exercise of some type. The burden of temptation is the emotional element that can destroy any all good intentions. A temptation is an attraction, or distraction visible in…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Gone
On December 7th, 2016 Wilber, and Joyce Borstanski will have completed Sixty-seven years of marriage. They are an active senior couple in their Southwest Florida community. Their daily 2-mile morning walks, yoga, and Tai-Chi classes are just a few of their combined weekly and monthly activities. However, after the death of their last pet, Ceasar,…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Ovation, A short story”
The yearly winter carnival held on Lake George, in upstate New York, has produced many fish and sledding tales that have become legendary folklore. But during the 1967 winter carnival, every teenage boy tried to sled across the bottom end of the lake near the Lake George shoreline. Local politician Gerald Koranski’s 14-year-old son was…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Interior.”
January in Maine: The interior of a warm home is essential. On a snowy January morning, the layered interior of your coat is outstanding. But, when the January sun rises piercing through windows, the interior of your comforter is warmed hugging a loved one, it is a pleasant morning. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Year by Year
Birthdays occur. Anniversaries occur. Holidays occur. Vacations occur. Working occurs until retirement. But death can end your year. So, feel blessed on this first day of the year as you progress through all of the above. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Renewal.”
Hey, honey, your car registration is due in January, have you mailed in the renewal paperwork? No, not yet, I forgot all about it during the holidays. I will take care of it this weekend, but I will take the two-year renewal option. Don’t forget you motorcycle, sailboat, the recreational vehicle, and your bass boat. Hey, baby…
-
“Toys from Christmas Past; Short Story #5”
The night before Christmas and all through the house all was quiet as the Lehman family was attending Christmas Eve Services where Jason was participating in the children’s Christmas play as one of the three wise men. Because this was Jason’s first Christmas play acting role, Jeffery and Jacqueline were excited with their cameras and…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Pillage.”
It is 5:55 am, the day after Christmas, and four unassuming women sit comfortably in a rented full-size cargo van near the entrance of the Sherwood Mall waiting to begin their annual shopping pillage for Christmas sales. All of the women are related, but the youngest is participating in her first shopping pillage. When she…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Retreat!”
It has been six months of nomadic adventurous travels, and I have enjoyed every moment and mile. Yet, after three days of high humidity, extremely dense fog, and only seeing the sun twice in a week I realized I miss morning walks along the beach, riding my bicycle, and the morning visits to the local Starbucks/Snowbird…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Human communication has evolved but not vanity.
Recently I overheard a baby-boomer speak of never wanting to use the facetime feature of their mobile phone when taking with their grandchildren or family members. Hearing this conversation, I thought about how far the human race has come in receiving and delivering messages over the course of time. But, within the last one-hundred years,…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Holiday Bounty? Wisdom.”
The bounty of the holiday season is not in the number of gifts received, presents given, or the number of family members gathered. The bounty of the holidays is the personal reflection for the day, the months ahead, to see and experience another bountiful year of knowledge and wisdom to experience family and friends again into…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Enthusiasm
It is our eldest son’s debut as the featured lead conductor of the famed symphonic orchestra’s Christmas concert that started at 6:00 pm. It was now 6:19 pm as I waited for my wife, Geneva For 41-years of our marriage, I have accepted knowingly she will always be late, except when our two children were…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Holly Jolly Folly Christmas Re-Gifts. Short Story#4”
With 72-hours before their employees, Christmas parties. Jeffery and Jaqueline have yet to map out one of their most important decision of the Christmas season, what to regift for their co-workers. After their first Christmas, they decided to regift the wired, uncanny, and simply the gaudiest gifts they could ever imagine. They still cringe when…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
” Moody; Bah-Humbug!”
Eighty-seven-year-old Wilbur Wainwright, the owner of a window installation company, based in Ottumwa Iowa, began the business sixty-three years ago. He married once, divorced within a year, and never had any children. He never remarried again. He never attended church, never contributed to any charitable organization within his community and his business closed only for…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Christmas Maddening Day
Maddening, is the list of errands I have to complete. Maddening, are the kids will be awake soon. Maddening, are the gifts I need to wrapped and mail. Maddening, is I need to start breakfast. Maddening, I need to get out of bed and begin my day. Maddening, it’s less than a week before Christmas.…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Christmas Folly & Martyr.”
Robert Avenell; During Thanksgiving dinner, the Avenell brothers were enamored with an old 1950’s Sears & Robuck catalog their Uncle Rosco brought to the holiday dinner. The catalog was a great talking item, and the boys soon discovered all of the toys in the book, along with the guns they sold. The Avenel brothers’ mother…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Travel Conundrum the weather.”
For two months my travel conundrum has been cool to cold daytime temperatures in Tucson Arizona and now Galveston TX. I had also come to appreciate the months of research I conducted to make Southwest Florida my retiree destination before I struck out as a full-time Rv’er. In all of the months of my preparations…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Flee.”
Is flee your decision during a conflict? Flee is your option to avoid discussion. Flee is your response, but fear is your motivator. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Treasured Christmas Gifts, Short Story #3.”
It’s has been two days since Jeffery and Jacqueline consumed three bottles of Advent wine and ate four boxes of Advent calendar chocolate candies. But, with the Christmas tree decorated, the Christmas shopping completed, and the Christmas Cards mailed. The Leahman family enjoys their Christmas evenings a lot more listening to holiday music and touring…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Sacred Sight.”
Seeking what is desired emotionally maybe confusing and convoluted when beauty is sighted. A heart & soul has no sight only emotions to respond to the decision of sight. WordPress daily word prompt
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Two, Gulf of Mexico morning horizons.”
The Gulf of Mexico has two horizons for me as seen from Galveston Texas sunrise December 2016, windy cold. Fort Myer Florida November 2015 sunset, lazily warm. Sunrise or sunset each has a perspective from either coastline as seen in these photos do not reveal the temperature differences. WordPress photo challenge
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Chaotic Chocolate, Short Story #2.”
After spending Thanksgiving with Jeffery’s parents, the couple enjoyed a leisurely ride home but stopped to buy a live Christmas tree in which Jason helped choose. They looked forward to evenings decorating the tree, signing Christmas cards and wrapping gifts. Because of 5-year-old Jason’s engaging personality with the baby boomers at his Grandmothers Thanksgiving Luncheon,…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Construct.”
Closing your eyes brings to light the vision of what can be imagined to be constructed. Construct, build, develop, are the foundation of dreams and possibilities the imagination conjures. To construct, build and develop requires opening the eyes from the dream to construct the dream. Nothing comes to a dreamer, but a sleeper & nothing…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Mythical.”
Some things in life can become mythical within my thoughts. My hiking experiences encompass several decades as a Boy Scout, hiking trails in middle and southern Missouri. To becoming a Scout Leader hiking portions of the Appalachian Trail and many other forested trails in Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina and West Virgina. Nothing prepared me for…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Irksome, Short Story #1.”
Hello, fellow blog post followers. In the coming weeks, some of WordPress’s daily word prompts responses will revolve around Jeffery and Jaqueline Lehman and their five-year-old son Jason over the holiday season. With the approach of Thanksgiving, it had been six months since Jeffery’s mother had seen her first grandchild, Jason. Jeffery and Jaqueline Lehman…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Second Thoughts,”
It is a daily, occurrence when all have second thoughts on everything from what to wear, what to eat, which way to go to work or going to work. Dale and Beverly are husband and wife laying in bed just before the alarm activated when Beverly asked, should we go to work? Dale’s eyes increased…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Love is Patient.”
Lorraine Archer was standing before a full-length mirror contemplating the incredible turn of events that have unfolded in her life.  The mirror reflected the white wedding dress, covering a red under skirting with gold colored sequin designs across her chest and at the bottom of the skirt, representing the Christmas season The dress is…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Lofty.”
This is my second year participating in the National Novel Writing Month event. Although I have prepared with lofty plot ideas, with detail developement of characters and and thier personalities. However, my best laid creative plans are usually thwarted for one reason or another as the month unflods. My novel’s focal point is a local…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Anticipation.”
The participation within any race builds anticipation as you approach the finish line. Seeking something produces the anticipations of finally grasping and holding what is sought. Formulating a plot line, creating characters, with complex backgrounds and personalities to become close friends within the mind creates anticipation to complete a 50,000-word novel during National Novel Writing Month before…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Percolate.”
Life’s easiest options are breathing, and waking up to a new day. The hardest options are focusing on what to do, and finding the discipline to do what we imagined or dreamed of doing. Life is boring when you don’t look for activities to become involved to enhance your soul. WordPress daily word prompt.
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Vegetal.”
Since retirement, one of my greatest discoveries is learning to consume more vegetables and fruits. In doing so, I have noticed softer and more pliable skin and faster growth of what little hair I have left on my head. Many quotes and phrases are available to inspire people to eat correctly. However, fighting the temptation…
-
“Bases.”
Give me a first base squeeze honey Oh yes, now that’s a first base squeeze. Can I kiss your neck, and shoulders? Umm, yes, I think you stole second base. Oh, my goodness, that feels soo good. Can we kiss to let me know you love me? Oh, baby, you are quick, with a…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Bludgeon.”
When the suspect took the stand in his defense to explain his side of the assault and battery. The first question the prosecuting attorney asked the defendant was to describe what type of bludgeoning device he used against the victim. The defendant stated, “I did not use a bludgeoning device.” The prosecuting attorney walks to…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
NaNoWriMo OR Blogging
Over the past eleven days, my desire to creatively produce content for this blog, while engrossed with my NaNoWriMo 50,000 word challenge has become an either or episode in my life. To be specific, the novels research has consumed my time while anxiety and shame filled my soul for failing to walk two miles or…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Eerie.”
Eunice Hedge-Clapper died at age 62 when her car was struck by falling debris from an overpass as she sat in traffic on Interstate 95 north of Washington DC. The eerily uncanny accident and her immediate death shocked her suburban community north of Washington DC Just under two hundred people attended the funeral held at…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
Copycat
Good, afternoon I’m the eldest brother who is six years older than my sister Erin, aka “Baby Princess.” I gave her that name since our father spoiled her immensely. I believe our parents spaced us out making me the supreme babysitter extraordinaire for many years. At age fifteen, I took a part-time job after school…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Bridges.”
Life is bridged with decisions and choices to last a lifetime. All bridge crossing is fraught with insecurities and doubts that remain consistent throughout life. Over time crossing bridges builds confidence to conquering life’s challenges and future bridges. Hurrying across your bridges will prevent memories to be etched into your psyche. Destroying bridges of…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Rearrange.”
For thirty-five years, Oscar and Eunice’s marriage has faced various obstacles testing their enduring love for one another. Oscar has learned and developed the wisdom to rearrange his perception of women to survive his marriage. On the eve of his eldest son’s marriage David, Oscar provides some wisdom and knowledge. The first thing you should understand…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Cigarette pack, stare down.”
After a horribly stressful shift as a firefighter captain. Donald Treshman decided to stop at a local convenience store and purchase a pack cigarettes for the first time in 17 years. He did not open the pack of cigarettes fearing the smoke would destroy the fresh mint smell in his car. So he decided to…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Banned.”
Gerald McClain and Cody Whitten both age 89, have been life-long friends growing up on farms in Iowa near the small town of Hampton. After retirement and many cold winters in Iowa, they moved to Bradenton Florida with their wives. They married twin sisters, Beulah and Betty Conklin on Valentine’s day, 1947, and each sister…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Transformation.”
Halloween is a perfect time to transform your persona into who you want to become with the use of makeup and costumes. Most thoughtful transformations take place deep within the mental psyche away from prying eyes of family friends and opinions. Once revealed to surprised family and friends, the positive comments empowers and reinforces your…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Artificial Vs Natural.”
The evolution and development of artificial instead of naturally occurring is unique for everyone, but is artificial necessary? When it comes to food, many people want to end the use of anything artificial in food. Although since the development of synthetic diamonds, hair, grass, teeth, heck the list can go on forever because some people…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Trust.”
Jacob and Hellen, have been married for twenty years when Hellen arrived home from work a couple of hours earlier than usual. As Hellen turned into the driveway, she was surprised to see an “Easy Man, Maid Service” car parked on the street in front of their house. She assumed the car maybe for one…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Boy Scout, Spelunking.”
When I was a Boy Scout, I loved camping, hiking and everything associated with being a Boy Scout and I was exposed to the word “spelunking,” which is the exploration of caves. Missouri has more than 6,200 caves—second only to Tennessee—and is known as the Cave State. More caves are discovered every year. Karst is…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
National Novel Writing Month Volunteer “(NaNoWriMO)”
For the past two months, most of my writing time has been dedicated to plotting a story line and developing characters. All of this in preparation as I approach November 1, to participate in the National Novel Writing Month, also known as, NaNoWriMo. In my travel journey across the US, I have attended writers groups in…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
I was fortunate to visit The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque NM. in the photo below. The center is opened 7-days a week with varying prices seniors, adults, students, military, and groups. Click the link for detailed pricing. On the weekends, the center host dances from the local Pueblo communities, as featured in the photos…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Subdued worry.”
It’s been twelve hours, and usually, they are home by now. Something is wrong, I feel it, and I sense it. The neighbor’s German shepherd, Felix is barking happy barks, so the neighbors are home. I’m worried. Something has happened to them because I’m usually smelling food cooking on the stove by now. If they…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
-
“Subdued.”
It’s been ten hours since I have seen my best friends and usually, they are home. I can tell something is wrong since the neighbor’s German shepherd, Felix is barking happy barks. I’m worried. Something may have happened to them because I’m usually smelling food cooking on the stove and getting tasty treats while the…
Expedition Nomadic Adventurer
Expedition Nomadic Adventures 