This month, the time of the year is particularly challenging for many of us living between 60-70 degrees north latitude. A third of Finland is north of the Arctic Circle, where long, dark winters can take a toll on mental well-being. Although I live further south and experience slightly more daylight, this period is difficult when we lack snow and the days grow darker as we approach Christmas. The absence of light drains the essence of life from me and countless others. As the years go by, I become more sensitive to the biting chill and gloom that blankets the landscape. I long for the vibrant hues of spring and the warmth of the sun, as the darkness of winter casts a long shadow over my spirit, reminding me of the fleeting nature of light and joy.
Lepis has hosted this challenge for many years, and I truly appreciate it as it not only keeps me active but also encourages creativity in my daily routine. I need to post something —whether it’s a photo or a artwork—at least once a day, which helps maintain a sense of accountability. Thank you to Lepis and my fellow survivors for the company. This was my only source of motivation before; however, now that I’ve joined Len-Artists, I also have another avenue that continually inspires me to do something creative and engaging. Being part of this community invigorates my passion for photography and expression, pushing me to explore new ideas and challenges, even though I acknowledge that I haven’t always been at my best.
There is light behind all this slush.
Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever, is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.
30th
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 
Vajaa kuukausi ja päivät alkavat pidentyä, sinnitellään!!!
Kyllä tämä taas iloksi muuttuu.. joka vuosi tähan saakka on selvitty. Hyvää joulun odotusta Susu
Kiitos samoin, Ritva.
I love this. And the caption says it all.
Yep, it is over 🙂 It is still dark, but the festive lights are out and bring some light
Lovely post, photos, and text. It must be so hard when daylight gets shorter and shorter. I think it would also affect me.
it is a total bummer, and many Finns hibernate the winter and as spring comes we crawl out of our homes 🙂
Beautiful images! The first one, woow!!
Amy, thank you
Absolutely love your cover image Ritva. I’m glad LAPC helps you get through the dark, long days. Just know that your creativity and wonderful photography in your challenges has broadened my capabilities.
So nice of you to say so, thanks Anne for you nice words, I can easily say them back at you
😍
I can only imagine. I spent some time in the UK before it got really cold and gloomy yet I already found it too gloomy for me. I grew up close to the equator and I seek the sunshine all the time.
Sun, oh I miss it so much, and the warmth of it
I admire your capacity to produce wonderful images day after day, Ritva. Soon be at the shortest day and then Christmas.
Thanks Jo, photography is my thing, words are harder
Sinne valui räntään tämäkin marraskuu! Mahtava kuukausi ja oli taas ihanaa seurata mitä kukin löytää 🙂 Kiitokset!
Kiitos itsellesi 🙂