I’m not going say this is a easy one, I seem to lean towards green and blue colors. I found some that I can start with, strawberries 🍓 are now in season.
Linked to SimplyRed at Becky’s here
Simply Red
Category: Captures from Finland
This contains photographs of my home country, places dear to me. That I proudly share.
Sunday lunch
For Cellpic Sunday
Sunday here was a very windy, but sunny day in end. I did wake up to the sound of thunder and lightning and very heavy rain. I should have gotten up to take a photo, but instead I just stayed in bed and listened to it.
That has nothing to do with the photos I am going to post 😀
Instead I am going to share few images from our Sunday lunch. We drove to a restaurant in Espoo we hadn’t been before , Ravintola Cru it’s located in a nice old building which I for some reason didn’t take a picture of 😀 but I did take one from the bakery across the street. Note, we enjoyed the food.
Summer
In the hush of a Nordic summer night,
The sky glows soft, a canvas of light,
Whispers of breezes dance through the trees,
While shadows play hide and seek with the leaves.
Stars blink awake, a celestial sight,
Laughter and dreams take gentle flight,
In this tranquil hour where time stands still,
The magic of summer our hearts shall fill.
Traditional Japanese Costumes in Helsinki Park
Traditional japanese costumes on show at a park in Helsinki on a summer’s day for Six word Saturday
Midsummer
This weekend we are celebrating midsummer, it is one of the main celebration of the year here in Nordic countries. The nightless night.
Happy midsummer to you all with this
Moomintroll’s Midsummer Poem
But I lie upon the meadow to rest my legs awhile
I stop my musings right away to feel the sunlight shine
Let others do the thinking, they’re wiser anyway
on such a warm and friendly, and sleepy summer day
When all is blue and smells of dew
and you are free for troll-like deeds
or what you will – but choose to be
just lying still.
I am a troll like you, who thinks
the world is a home for me,
right now.
Tiny toes
Johns Cellpic Sunday
This little guy was enjoying the patio swing and a sleepover with us. A day with a baby and I am so tired now, it will take days to recover 😂 as I hardly slept because I was anticipating if he would wake up.
Naturally monochrome nature
This week, our host Elke from pictures imperfect blog has presented a fascinating theme focusing on our colour images that are NATURALLY MONOCHROME. This refers, as I understand it, to images that appear devoid of color, resembling black and white photographs without any conversions applied.
It’s almost impossible to find photos that show no color. Winter offers most opportunities to capture natural monochrome images
These I found, hopefully they work for this prompt.
Rhododendron for Cellpic Sunday
This is the time to get a shot of Rhododendrons, as their vibrant blooms are a spectacular. The particular one I captured was taken with my iPhone from the comfort of my backyard, where the sun gently kissed the petals, 🙂 Their lush foliage and intricate blooms not only provide a stunning backdrop and , reminding me of the beauty that nature has to offer right outside my door.
Later that day, we went to visit the Rhododendron park, and the sight was absolutely awesome; it is truly a wonder how big these magnificent plants can grow and how the different color blooms create a stunning spectacle. As we walked through the park, I couldn’t help but admire not only the vibrant pinks and deep purples but also the delicate whites and fiery reds that seemed to dance in the gentle breeze. I have to say, we were certainly not the only ones there that day; the park was packed with people of all ages, and nationalities each one enjoying the lovely day and taking advantage of this small, fleeting window of time to see the rhododendrons fully bloom in all their glory. Families were well presented, couples strolled hand in hand, and photography enthusiasts eagerly captured the beauty surrounding us, creating a lively atmosphere that enhanced our shared appreciation for nature’s artistry. What a great opportunity to people watching as well… I will post a separate post about those photos as I did not take them with my phone
For Cellpic Sunday
Monday window
While visiting friends this weekend I was drawn to the scene outside their window—a serpentine road meandering through the countryside, popular among drivers, adorned with vibrant greenery from the surrounding fields and forests. However, this very window has also overlooked the aftermaths of numerous accidents; a harsh reminder of the hidden perils beneath its beauty. Thankfully, such incidents appear to happen less often now, particularly after the speed limit was reduced to 60 km/h, a change that has certainly improved the road’s safety.
LAst on the Card MAY
That was yesterday, the last day of May; we were at our summer house. I took some photos on my iPhone of one corner of our grounds. My husband is having fun with his chainsaw, clearing the area of small spruce trees to let some light into the corner and make it look nicer, as it was overgrown and not at all pleasing to look at. Well, it doesn’t look that way now either, but hopefully soon.
This I took with my Olympus – lens OLYMPUS M.45mm F1.8 while sitting on my patio at home watching the oak leaves starting to open from the warmth of the sun.
I also took these during the weekend, I was sitting on my sofa and playing with my new camera and decided I would try the ICM zooming again as I was not impressed with my earlier efforts, this time they are slightly better, still need to continue the efforts Sony A7 III, Lens 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6
For Last on the card in May.
Still standing tall against the odds
For Debbie´s Six Words Saturday.
traditional Scandinavian grain drying and threshing cabin
Vibrancy of Dandelions
This is the prime time for dandelions in my neck of the woods. The glorious yellow fields of this pest of a flower look lovely, stretching out like a bright carpet across the landscape, creating a vivid contrast against the greens of the grass and the browns of the earth. This weed is lovely in its brightness, with its unapologetic splendor. I took these yesterday, reveling in the beauty of the fields and the soft, fluffy clouds drifting lazily above, where the sun peeked through to illuminate the landscape. However, towards the end of the day, the clouds turned dark, gathering together ominously and giving us a pour of rain that was both refreshing and needed. The scent of the air after the rain was so fresh and lovely, invigorating my senses.
The seeds, delicate and fluffy, are a great macro photography subject, exploding into the air with just a gentle breath, scattering like tiny parachutes on the wind.
My old neighbor, by old I mean she used to be my neighbor and well she was on the older side; I was in my late forties and she in her late eighties, told me she used to make wine out of dandelions, a unique blend that captivated and surprised many. She said she would give me the recipe, but I never did actually get it, although it came up many times during our conversations, often reminiscing about the joy ipicking the dandelions. She was a lovely lady, always positive, her laughter , and her stories rich with wisdom about foraging, gardening, and the simple pleasures found in nature.
Dandelions can be made into wine, offering a refreshing and unique beverage. This traditional recipe is perfect for beginners looking to try something new for spring or summer meals. While many see dandelions as weeds, wine enthusiasts view them as ingredients. Dandelion wine is gaining popularity among DIY winemakers, featuring a light and citrusy flavor.
I googled this recipe
Dandelion Wine
Yields approx. 4 liters
Ingredients:
• 3 liters of dandelion petals (only the yellow parts)
• 4 liters of water
• 1.5–2 kg of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 organic lemons (juice + zest)
• 1 orange (optional – for rounder flavor)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1 packet wine yeast
• Optional: 1 tsp yeast nutrient
Instructions:
- Pick & prepare:
Pick dandelions on a sunny day when they are fully open. Use only the yellow petals – the green parts can make the wine bitter. - Pre-fermentation:
Boil the water and pour it over the petals in a large pot or fermentation bucket. Cover and let sit for 2 days, stirring occasionally. - Strain & flavor:
Strain out the petals. Gently heat the liquid with the sugar, lemon juice + zest, optional orange and ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let cool to room temperature. - Fermentation:
Add the wine yeast (and optional yeast nutrient) to the cooled liquid. Pour into a fermentation vessel with an airlock. Let ferment in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. - Bottling & aging:
When fermentation is complete, transfer to clean bottles. Age for at least 3–6 months. The wine only improves over time!
A manor in Messilä
Monochrome Madness – Forests
You cannot escape forests here – they are all around us, enveloping every corner of the landscape. Approximately 75 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest, creating a lush, green tapestry that supports an array of wildlife and offers countless opportunities for exploration.
I have had a forest right at my doorstep most of my life, from playing in the forest as a kid to taking walks in it as an adult, allowing me to witness the changing seasons, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the serene blanket of snow during winter, each moment reinforcing the connection I feel with nature. The soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a constant reminder of the peace that these natural havens can bring.
Posted for For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
a Weathered Window
Here is a photo of a window from Iso Kirkkokatu for Monday Window. The building at this point in time could have used some much-needed tlc, as its facade showed signs of wear and aging. Despite this, the window itself stands out beautifully. The light reflection casts enchanting shadows, one more addition to the shot.
wood anemone basking in the sunlight
Debbie’s Six Words Saturday
First green
Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday
The rules are to be broken
For Debbie’s Six Words Saturday.
Lens-Artists Challenge #345 – My Go-To Places
This week, John is guiding us through the My Go-To Places challenge, and I believe many of you can easily guess my answer. I’ve mentioned it on numerous occasions before: they are simply my home and my summer house. These serene spots allow me to just be myself.
This path takes me to a serene location surrounded by nature. Just this past Easter, I visited there. The scenery was not yet vibrant with greenery; instead, it appeared more brown and dreary. However, the melody of the birds chirping was beautifully powerful and soothing.
Summer green, a hue renowned for its calming properties, envelops me in a serene embrace here. As I sit n oone of my favorite places, I observe the gentle wind dancing through the leaves, accompanied by the vast expanse of blue skies overhead. The melodious sounds of nature create a symphony around me, wrapping me in tranquility—there are no problems to solve, only the bliss of the moment to savor.
With the arrival of early autumn, the enchanting mist that blankets the mornings and evenings creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, while the skies transform into a stunning palette of colors. It’s an absolute delight to seize the opportunity and take your camera along for an outing, ensuring that these beautiful moments are captured forever.
Lakeside, where the gentle sound of water caresses the shore and the vibrant yellows of autumn paint the landscape, offers a serene escape into nature. It’s here that I find my sanctuary, a place to reset and rejuvenate. My summer house is my primary retreat, where I spend most of my time during the pleasant seasons that invite outdoor activities. While winter holds its own beauty, I prefer to stay indoors, as the cold air isn’t my favorite companion. As the saying goes, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished,” reminding me to embrace the tranquility that surrounds me.
I sat in my living room beside my grandson, having just snapped a few photos of him. With my mobile in hand, I captured the very spot on my sofa where I’ve spent countless calm and peaceful moments, gazing out at the changing seasons through the window. I’ve watched deer, hares, and foxes stroll by, and even glimpsed a moose once, while birds soared and squirrels scampered along the fence. This corner of my home is truly one of my favorite places, reminding me that “home is not a place, but a feeling.”
Thank you, John, for this challenge. It reminded me once again to be grateful for what I have. Please link them to his original post here and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find you. Thanks also to Anne for last week’s “abandoned” challenge and to everyone who responded. I’m not sure why we are drawn to such things, but as long as they are around, we’ll keep capturing them.
I often dedicate countless hours to editing photos from the numerous places we’ve traveled to over the years. While I may not physically venture out, I immerse myself in the editing process, often losing track of time in front of my computer screen as I reminisce about those experiences. Which also is calming.
Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Sofia leads us once again on her beautiful Photographias site. Until then keep on smiling☺It might be someone’s highlight of the day.
MOnday Window – DESIGN YOUR OWN.
I saved this image from my last Lens Artists post for this week’s Monday Window
A vibrant shop window display featuring the name ‘DRM-LND’ in playful lettering, with a neon sign that reads ‘DESIGN YOUR OWN.’ The window showcases colorful merchandise, including bags and figurines and, with young shoppers inside..
Books are good for you
Art hall ⬜ square
Have posted this image before, but it is so suitable for this so I cropped it into a square
Nature’s triangle
Snowy Outings
I spent yesterday totally unplugged from the computer, taking a well-deserved break, and ended up going to see a friend on the wrong day. Even though it was a bit of a hassle, I trudged through a snow blizzard, battling the fluffy chaos, only to realize I showed up two days early for our hangout. Not exactly thrilled about digging my car out from under all that snow twice, but hey, we made the best of it and had a good chat, catching up and cracking jokes. Later that evening, we went with my husband to check out the comedian Russell Howard at the House of Culture in Helsinki, which was super exciting. The cherry on top? We ran into some other friends there by total coincidence, which made the night even cooler. Overall, it was a pretty great night, full of unexpected surprises and good vibes. Good night, all in all!
I didn’t get any great photos yesterday, but since this is a photography blog, I guess I should share some moments from my day, even if they’re not ideal. So, I’m throwing in what I think/ know are some bad shots from tonight. I snagged one pic from the gig that didn’t turn out at all, but it still reminds me of the awesome energy and buzz from the moment. Plus, I snapped a few more shots while driving home from a moving car. The snow that had covered everything earlier in the day had stopped falling, and the snowplows had done their job clearing the roads, making our drive a little smoother. Even if the photos aren’t perfect, they definitely capture the vibe of my evening journey back home.
From Blue Moment to sunset
Just now I went to my front door and back to my patio in the backyard to capture these stunning pink clouds of blue moment and sunset. The sky was painted with hues that can only be described as pink .-), transforming the ordinary evening into pastel beauty. I shot them on my iPhone, which is always handy for such spontaneous moments, as seeing the sunset . As I stood there the chill of winter slightly bit my hands and feet as I did not put my winter jacket on, or shoes. these colorful skies pass so quickly, views now saved on my device, I am linking it to John’s Cellpic Sunday to share the beauty that can be found in everyday moments.
Dusk
No explanation other than sharing a photo from a lovely moment captured and not shared before. Have a great friday.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 