On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst

On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst (Pensacola, Florida; April 26, 2022) – The ex-USS Ponce (LPD 15) has arrived at her final berth in Texas at the scrapper’s yard. So, it’s time for another ‘On the Waterfront’ sea story about the Proud Lion and the adventures of her intrepid crew, … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst

On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: The Greatest Seaman

(Pensacola, Florida; April 21, 2022) – I posted the original version of this column nearly two years ago while I was still in Washington State. However, as the Proud Lion is sailing into history now, this memory has taken up pride of place in the formation of memories gliding along the channel for the Grand … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: The Greatest Seaman

Travel Log – Falling for Water!

(Silverdale, Washington; May 4, 2021) – Waterfalls wash away strife and care, the rushing cataract mesmerizing the eyes even as it soothes the soul. As I near my departure from Washington State, I wanted to share a few more memories of the amazing places we have here. I’ve found much solace, wonder, and water droplets … Continue reading Travel Log – Falling for Water!

Blogger’s Notebook – Going Video, Part 1

(Silverdale, Washington; February 25, 2021) – Sparks1524 has gone viral! Er, I mean, gone video! Hopefully, I do go viral; that would do wonders for my bottom line… Welcome to a brand-new category—the Blogger’s Notebook! I’ll use this column to discuss the art and science of blogging. Everything’s on the table, from the mechanics of … Continue reading Blogger’s Notebook – Going Video, Part 1

BREAKING NEWS!! Sparks1524 is now on Video!

(Silverdale, Washington; Feb. 21, 2021) – Breaking News!!! Sparks1524 is now on video! Check out my YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/user/SparkyMiller1524 Currently I have up four videos; a short introduction and three discussions mirroring my last three columns. Please like and subscribe so you can stay tuned in as I expand my footprint in this newest … Continue reading BREAKING NEWS!! Sparks1524 is now on Video!

Photo Finish: Christmas Lights, Part 2

Last week we concluded part 1 in 2014 at the Norfolk Botanical Garden in Norfolk, Virginia. I have traveled a bit since then, and gotten a look at Christmas and holiday lights around the United States. Let me take you across this vast nation of ours, and even take you back in time a bit … Continue reading Photo Finish: Christmas Lights, Part 2

SPECIAL EDITION!! Photo Finish–The Brothers Through the Year!

The Brothers are a prominent set of peaks in the Olympic Mountains. The south peak (on the left) rises to 6,842 feet above sea level while the north peak (on the right) rises to 6,650 feet. The peaks are 22 miles from where I live in Silverdale. The Brothers hold the distinction of being one … Continue reading SPECIAL EDITION!! Photo Finish–The Brothers Through the Year!

Photo Finish: Christmas Lights, Part 1

I think we can all agree 2020 has been a difficult year (to put it mildly). Even so, many people are celebrating their holidays and holy days this month. As a Christian, my holy festival is December 25 - January 6; Christmas Day through the Feast of the Epiphany. Normally this blog would go on … Continue reading Photo Finish: Christmas Lights, Part 1

Mental Health: Does ‘Solitary Confinement’ Ring a Bell?

(Silverdale, Washington; Dec. 03, 2020) – Solitary confinement is one of the harshest punishments our justice system can inflict on prisoners. Solitary confinement is designed to stop violent inmates from harming others (be those ‘others’ inmates or guards). Solitary confinement is a controversial punishment because its negative psychological impacts are real. A 2017 study by … Continue reading Mental Health: Does ‘Solitary Confinement’ Ring a Bell?

Photo Finish – Animal Magnetism!

No one on Earth radiates animal magnetism like animals do! From pigeons to sea otters, wild animals can be charming, cute, funny, and even cuddly...from a distance. Maintaining a respectful distance (while using a good zoom lens) allows you to get to know these creatures while ensuring your safety. Here's a look at a few … Continue reading Photo Finish – Animal Magnetism!