photography Archives - Scooter in the Sticks

Photography, Writing, and the Idling of YouTube

October 19, 2026 by Scooter in the Sticks 26 Comments

A screenshot of the Scooter in the Sticks YouTube channel. — Still standing by for a video if needed.

The Burden of YouTube

Toward the end of February was the last time I published a video on YouTube. The silence since is a marked departure from the normal three videos created every month. Since then there have been many inquiries asking when I will start posting videos on YouTube again. I don’t want to say never but it does feel that way. I started making videos thinking it might be fun. And I stopped when it wasn’t.

Making videos, even with the simple approach I employed, takes time to create. It meant having an idea of something to say before the ride, a rough plan for the footage needed, some mental practice regarding what I would say while riding, and then editing it into something tolerable to watch.

An unexpected audience built around the videos. Larger than twenty years of publishing blog posts. A friend asked if the audience size mattered, if the monthly check from YouTube mattered, if I was enjoying myself? And the answers were “No.”

I create things for myself. To unravel chaotic thoughts and situations, to explore the questions that rattle in my head. If others find enjoyment or utility in them that’s gravy, but not the goal

So for now I’ve put YouTube on hiatus.

Embracing the Honda Trail 125 Adventure Machine

May 22, 2026 by Scooter in the Sticks 14 Comments

2024 Honda Trail 125 motorcycle parked in a driveway. — Loaded and ready for adventure.

Unexpectedly Sexy

Not sure sexy is the correct term. But unlike almost any other motorcycle or scooter on the road the Honda Trail 125 gets first, second, and often third looks and comments. Often seen as cute it doesn’t seem to intimidate or trigger indifferent reactions that bigger, louder, and frankly gaudier motorcycles can do. If engagement and ego stroking is important you won’t go wrong with this machine. And if you are looking for adventure, don’t underestimate this little machine.

The adventure ahead on this morning was simple — a wandering ride on backroads, dirt, and gravel to breakfast. A quiet hour on the road to cover 26 miles. Perfect for embracing the Honda Trail 125.

Pennsylvania Military Museum Folio Project

April 5, 2021 by Scooter in the Sticks 18 Comments

folio on bench at Pennsylvania Military Museum — The first folio of photographs release into the wild at the Pennsylvania Military Museum.

Into the Unknown

I left the first folio of prints on a bench at the Pennsylvania Military Museum. It was a sunny morning and only a couple people walking in the distance.

The folios are a selection of images from the photography I’ve done on the grounds over the past year. A creative exercise borne of the restrictions and isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m grateful to live so close to a place where I can freely walk without concern of contracting the virus from other people. And still maintain some sense of belonging in the world.

Days of Snow

February 3, 2021 by Scooter in the Sticks 12 Comments

Vespa scooter on snow-covered driveway — Rolling the Vespa out into the snow. (Back in February 2015)

Is This a Good Idea?

There was a time when days of snow would have led to some sort of riding attempt on my Vespa scooter. I was young. Fresh. And stupid perhaps. No longer do I roll out the scooter into the fresh snow to “see how it does.” I know the answer to that question. Now I make different choices.

Regarding the question, “Is this a good idea?” I’m leaning towards no.