This week, Anne invited us to celebrate the joys of summer. In response, I’ve decided to share a selection of photos capturing our summer experiences so far. First week of our holiday in June we were in Norway, but no shots here as I have already shared few 😂 The second part of holidays began with a fun trip to Tampere with friends in the middle of July, where we explored the cultural offerings of Vapriikki’s exhibition. Manserock represents the Finnish-language pop and rock music that originated in Tampere and its nearby regions, with Eppu Normaali being one of our friends’ favorite bands. We also enjoyed a photo exhibition dedicated to them at a different location. Sightseeing Tampere and enjoying good food, but the best was spending time with friends.
We returned home on Saturday night, and by Monday morning, we set off with our son and three grandsons for a two-day trip in Tallinn, Estonia. The excitement among the boys was palpable as we prepared for our journey. Once we arrived, we did plenty of walking—12 to 15 kilometers each day—and I must say, the boys never once complained about it, which is quite a feat for young ones! The city was a treasure trove of history and culture, with cobblestone streets winding their way through picturesque squares. So many streets, sights some included lots of steps to get to the tops of towers where you got to see great views over the old town. Hopefully creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.
After that we came to our summer house with the boys, so it was sauna, barbecue and relaxing between these activities . Occasionally a dip into the cool lake waters.
They went home after spending 10 wonderful days with us, and I can’t help but feel a bit sad that they live so far away.
The summer here has been cooler and rainier than I would prefer, but I find solace in the fact that we are not enduring the extreme weather that much of Europe is currently facing. It’s truly frightening to see wildfires encroaching upon major cities. As I read the news, my heart goes out to those affected by these disasters. A wildfire is now threatening Bordeaux, forcing the evacuation of 250,000 people and resulting in severe land destruction. The flames have engulfed 420 square kilometers, representing one of the most significant ecological tragedies in France since World War II. Just last night, authorities urged an additional 55,000 residents from nearby villages to evacuate, bringing the total number of evacuees to 220,000. In Spain, officials are closely monitoring new evacuations in the Valencia region, where rampant fires have displaced 116,000 individuals from their homes this week alone. And let’s not forget Canada, which is also grappling with the impacts of climate change. It’s truly heartbreaking to read such devastating news.
Back to our summer daze, it’s not here just yet, but there’s every reason to believe it will soon arrive. For I am looking forward to bw with the company of friends, enjoying coffee and cake, the simple pleasures life has to offer, you make the best of what you have, rain is no obstacle. We eagerly anticipate the golden sunsets that will surely grace the horizon—maybe not today, but absolutely one of these days. There is still plenty of summer left, and it holds so much promise!
Our charming red sauna, even if I so myself, nestled among lush greenery and tall birch trees, is only a memory now, and I am so sad to see these majestic trees go. They were not just part of the landscape; they were woven into the very fabric of my daily life for over 30 years, offering shade on hot summer days and beautiful golden leaves in the fall. I find myself wondering how it is possible to be so attached to trees, to feel such a deep connection to something that seems so simple yet is profoundly complex and enduring in its presence. The way the light filtered through their branches created a serene atmosphere that was hard to replicate elsewhere, making every moment spent in their company feel special and filled with peace. The thought of their absence leaves me with a heavy heart, as they held countless memories tranquility spent in a hammock under the shade.
At least the cooler and gloomy weather gives my husband better weather to do the the clearing work resulting from the felling of a seven approximately 80-year-old birch tree from our yard at our summer house
As we close out this week, I want to sincerely thank Anne for giving us the chance to revel in the beauty of summer together, memories are made what ever the weather is. I encourage you to share your reflections on her post here and to use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find and enjoy your summer daze. Additionally, thanks to to Ann-Christine and everyone who took part in last week’s Adventures challenge; it was so nice to see the wonderful experiences we’ve all shared over the years. We hope you’ll join us again next week when Egidio leads us on another journey through his Through Brazilian Eyes site.
You can keep up with all of our challenges by subscribing to the Lens-Artists team members websites: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth. Ritva,
For information on how to join the Lens-Artists challenge please click here.
Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 
Thanks for remembering Canada and the climate change disasters we’re experiencing: both floods and fires. I read with terrible sadness about the fires in France and Spain.
You’ve celebrated the wide ranging pleasures of summer. And sadly, reminding us of its possible horrors too. Especially these days.
Glad to hear you had some fun time with your family, especially the young ones.
Yes, it is so sad and devastating to watch and read about the fires in Europe. My Canadian friend says it’s very difficult to breathe outdoors, even though the fires are some distance away from her family. Seems like the whole world has gone crazy at the moment. Climate change is so obvious.
It’s a very sad state of affairs.
The developing news about Bordeaux and its beloved vineyards and the wildfires in Spain lead to tears and prayers every time another few lines of news slip thru’. Australia burns this way regularly . . . we know when to hold our breath for others. Of other matters – thank you for Tampere which has always been very beloved by Estonians . . . and thank you (for three lines of such!) for all the Tallinn photos – a lifetime later I still remember each of the places you have photographed and there ARE a few tears in my eyes 🙂 ! And – you did not have to tell me what the red building was . . . we are as crazy about saunas as you!