Participating in Six Word Sunday
An Unexpected Moment of Golden Light
Category: iPhone photography
Dark Clouds Over a Peaceful Country Home
Just some dark clouds from yesterday, drifting in from the horizon like a slow-moving curtain. For a while it looked like they might swallow the whole sky. we watched them roll and build on themselves, a little in awe until they finally circled around us and moved on, leaving us with nothing but a moody sky and a big sigh of relief. Norain just amazing color in the sky against the sunlit trees
View from Korkee
Participating in Monochrome Madness
Ducks at the Dock
As summer fades, autumn’s arrival creates space Several ducks relax on a timeworn wooden dock,
where tranquil, deep teal waters gently sway.
Rippling reflections dance on the surface wide, scattered highlights whisper as they glide.
In this serene domain, a warm green-blue hug,
a drake gazes outward, a dignified brown visage.
Nature’s silent moments,
in the essence of peace, life flows with ease.
A Drive Through Changing Weather
On the road once more, we journeyed through a blend of rain, sunshine, and overcast skies during our 1½ hour trip home, the changing weather. The rhythmic patter of raindrops against the windshield gave way to warm sunshine breaking through the clouds. We finally arrived home as the setting sun started to paint the horizon in hues of orange and pink.
It Feels Like Autumn
We’ve mostly been at the summer house lately, with so much happening there, and we’ve been driving back and forth to home. Because of this, sightseeing at home has been almost nonexistent. However, we did pass by this beautiful countryside view that I usually can’t resist photographing, and this time was no different. We also spotted some cows—another one of those things I love to pause and admire, maybe even snap a pic.
Participating in John’s Cellpic Sunday
Plane Over Urban Landscape
Driving home on Sunday, I couldn’t believe my eyes – there were so many planes landing! I’ve driven this road countless times, yet I had never seen anything like it in the 10 km stretch past the airport. One plane flew right over us, perfectly framed against the bright sunlight, and I just had to snap a photo. I could see a Finnair passenger plane gliding across the deep blue sky, its landing gear down, clearly heading for the airport. Below it was this blue building, topped with a tall white tower that had bold red bands and a cool shield emblem. With green trees and rooftops around, and fluffy clouds in the clear daylight, it was this awesome urban aviation scene!
Joining John’s Cellpic Sunday
One Word Sunday – Sport
Watching this 🏃♀️from television 🏃♀️Linked to One Word Sunday at Debbie’s here
Finland’s Alisa Vainio won the women’s marathon at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham on Sunday, finishing almost five minutes ahead of her nearest rival and setting a championship record of 2:22:26. The 28-year-old led from the opening stages and completed most of the race alone.
Pot Marigolds
For John’s Cellpic Sunday
The flowers in the picture are calendulas which are most commonly known in English as pot marigolds or so I read, and they have seen better days.
The Beauty of Age: Window Details from Crete
I believe the cats find this window in Crete quite appealing. Regarding this photograph of a window, the color scheme features subdued browns, grays, and off-whites, emphasizing the aged and deteriorating condition of the structure, which narrates the passage of time. The surfaces are rich in texture, exuding a rustic charm that captivates the eye and invites reflection. The color brown symbolizes decay during autumn, embodying the shift from life to death, making it fitting for this image. Additionally, the worn look of the window stirs feelings of nostalgia, reminding us of our narratives and the beauty present in flaws, especially as I reach an age where I reflect on such matters.
Posting for Monday Window: 10 August 2026
Curious Boy And a Classic Ford Mustang
A curious little gentleman in a straw hat crouches in front of a classic Ford Mustang. Completely taken by its vintage design and fancy details, he inspects the car like a mini detective on a mission to uncover its secrets. With wide-eyed admiration for the car’s elegant lines, he explores its features for at least two minutes, perhaps pondering if he can convince his parents to trade in the family car for his grandpa’s proud possession, because who wouldn’t want to make kindergarten drop-offs feel more thrilling?
Monochrome Photography; Capturing Timelessness
This time, I am sharing photos from Anjalan Kartano, which is open during the summer months when it features various art and history exhibitions. We had the chance to visit while artists were setting up a new exhibition, they were kind enough to let us in, as it was really closed to public at that time. so many of the rooms were unoccupied. To be honest I was a bit disappointed that there was so little furniture left, I was expecting something else when we chose to visit this place. But I was able to get some nice interior shots. I also noticed while editing these that most of them were shot in the portrait mode, I seem to do that often when taking similar shots. The light in the rooms was wonderful.
Just a piece of history; Anjalan Kartano dates back to the 17th century, when Henrik Wrede made the ultimate sacrifice of his loyal horse and his own life for King Charles IX of Sweden. Since then, the manor has played a significant role in the community of Anjala.
Few I have converted to monochrome for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
It was a calm indoor setting, with a large window letting in natural light that made everything look calm. In front of it were wooden chairs, carved with care, huddled together as if they were having a quiet chat. Their soft, dark cushions softened the contrast with the wood. A table with a patterned tablecloth held a leafy plant in the center, adding a touch of hominess to the scene. The room felt peaceful, making me want to sit there, especially as the light and shadows danced playfully around. Two slightly different edits of the same window. Which crop do you prefer?
In this serene corner of the room, I noticed a large, hand-crafted rectangular frame leaning gently against the wall, while a mirror on the opposite wall captured and reflected the light and warmth of the surrounding space. The mirror’s surface showcased a wooden chair featuring a cozy cross-back design. Natural light poured in from a nearby window on the right, creating delightful shadows that danced across the wooden floor and the soft, textured fringed rug. Adjacent to the wall, a sturdy metal rod stretched horizontally, embellished with a whimsical paper chain decoration that infused a sense of charm and handmade character into this calm and minimalist haven.
Seasons goods
My lovely summerhouse neighbor made a home delivery bringing me fresh garlic and honey with summer flowers. It is a joy to have good neighbors ☀️
For Johns Cellpic Sunday
And this is what’s left behind
Debbies Six Word Saturday
This week, for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness, our host Sarah (of Travel With Me fame) would like us to post numbers 😁
I got stuck on an idea, but after viewing some posts I realized that I do have other options than streets, but still that is what I’m starting with
And especially for today, just moments agony,I took this picture of old coffee can to end my post. That’s commitment 😂
50 years of satisfaction
The Weather and Clouds of Sommarøy
I am still sharing photos from our Norway trip, these are taken with my IPhone 17 PRO, when traveling taking shots with the phone also works as a dairy. Joining in John’s Cellpic Sunday
The dark clouds that circled the area was what I wanted to capture, because when looking the other way you saw the turquoise waters glimmering like jewels beneath the faint light. Even if the clouds loom over the mountains, casting a shadow that blankets the landscape, the contrast between the foreboding sky and the vibrant hues of the sea creates a breathtaking scene. It was as if nature itself was putting on a show, with the cloudy atmosphere adding a dramatic flair to the serene beauty of the coastline. The combination of these elements stirred a deep sense of wonder in me, urging me to preserve this moment through my lens.
As a photographer, I wanted to convey the beauty and tranquility of our coastal landscape. The crystal-clear turquoise water gently lapping against a sandy beach, the soothing sound. I wanted to highlight the shallow water, where you can see the sandy bottom, subtle ripples, and even a small patch of seaweed, adding to the setting’s authenticity. In the background, I included the rocky shoreline adorned with lush greenery, leading up to the rugged mountains that stand strong yet appear melancholic under the thick, gray clouds. This composition captures the calmness I felt in the moment, balancing the vibrant blues and greens with the moody sky, aiming to evoke a sense of peace and reflection in those who view it.
Sommarøy or Sommerøya is a charming old fishing village nestled in western Tromsø Municipality, Norway. Located about 36 kilometers (22 mi) west of Tromsø city, it captivates visitors with its stunning white sand beaches and breathtaking scenery. Spanning 0.41 square kilometers (100 acres), this close-knit community has a population of 304 (2023), creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a density of 741 inhabitants per square kilometer (1,920/sq mi). Sommarøy embraces the beauty of both Store Sommarøya and parts of Hillesøya, as well as smaller surrounding islands. The village thrives on its rich local fishing industry, while also welcoming tourists who are drawn to its unique charm, offering a cozy hotel and inviting rental cabins for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
The Fusion of Modern and Historic Architecture in Tallinn
I am excited to share photos from a restaurant in Tallinn, where the atmosphere was absolutely vibrant that day! The sun shone brilliantly, encouraging all the customers to enjoy their meals outside. I was particularly enchanted by how the Rotermann kvartal beautifully blends old and new buildings, celebrating the city’s rich history alongside its modern innovations. The architecture tells a delightful story, reflecting the perfect harmony of tradition and progress that defines Tallinn. It was a wonderful experience, and I hope these images capture the charm of the moment and the inviting ambiance of this unique location. 🙂 Sharing with Monday Window
As I framed the shot, I was immediately captivated by the stylish, modern restaurant interior that unfolded before me, where exposed stone and brick walls created a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophistication. The large arched windows at the far end poured natural light into the space, illuminating the high ceiling adorned with visible beams and industrial-style lighting fixtures that hung gracefully above. My lens caught the wooden tables and chairs neatly arranged along the polished wooden floor, complemented by glassware and cutlery that sparkled in the sunlight. The service counter, lined with bottles and glassware, contributed to the warm, inviting atmosphere. I couldn’t help but notice the Staff in blackl attire, adding life to the setting and embodying the vibrant, welcoming experience that harmoniously merged historic architecture with contemporary design elements.
I captured these images to highlight the striking juxtaposition of modern and historic architecture in a single frame. The glass facade, with its slanted design, serves as a reflective canvas, beautifully mirroring the old stone wall and staircase, showcasing how these contrasting styles can coexist. The presence of two bicycles, one black and the other red with a charming basket, adds a touch of life and accessibility to the scene, emphasizing the building’s role in everyday urban life. The warm light fixtures within the interior cast a soft yellow glow that creates an inviting atmosphere, enriching the cool tones of stone and glass. This blend of contemporary and historic elements not only caught my eye but also instills a sense of calm and quiet within the bustling environment, making it a perfect moment to capture.
In capturing this image, I aimed to highlight the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. The reflective glass panels not only offer a contemporary aesthetic but also serve as a canvas that mirrors the vibrant surroundings, emphasizing the beauty of our environment. The sign “LEVIER,” prominently displayed, represents a connection between people and place, and its reflection speaks to the integration of the structure in its locale. The warm illumination evokes a sense of welcome, inviting those who view it to appreciate the urban landscape. By including the lush greenery and the wooden bench, I wanted to remind viewers of the importance of nature in our daily lives, even in a bustling cityscape.
The Art Deco Charm of Elite Restaurant in Helsinki
Today on a rainy Sunday I am sharing some interior photos from a recent trip to a restaurant that has been in Helsinki since 1930´s for John’s Cellpic Sunday
During World War II, food regulations and rationing were stringent. Elite managed to remain operational by offering un-rationed game dishes, casseroles, and fish. There are whispers that actual meat steaks were sold discreetly, but only to the most trusted regular patrons. Amidst the 1944 bombings of Helsinki, staff had to hurriedly secure the liquor cabinets and seek refuge in air-raid shelters, resulting in the destruction of nearly all of Elite’s beautifully custom-painted glass windows. Remarkably, this establishment became a second home for the renowned actor Tauno Palo, whose frequent visits are commemorated by a wall plaque at his favorite table. It is said that the famed sirloin steak with creamed onion (sipulipihvi) was invented to quell his late-night hunger after his theatrical performances.
These shoes are meant for walking
Participating in Debbies Six Word Saturday
Tourists are welcome
For Dans Thursday Doors I am sharing doors to tourist traps in old town Tallinn, in Estonia
Wordless Wednesday
Moments captured in Tallinn
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #64: Figures in a Built Environment
Guest host Sue: WordsVisual
I took these yesterday, and I am interpreting figures as people this time.
That’s what I have this week 😁
Alone Yet Connected On Line
For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday.
Flowers in a shape of a heart
Posted for Terri’s Flower Hour
Aavasaksa – Finland’s Hidden Gem
Aavasaksa
On our journey north, we took the timé to make a short stop to the beautiful Aavasaksa, a historical hill nestled in Ylitornio within the beautiful Tornio River Valley. It was a truly lovely place, celebrated for its breathtaking natural scenery and the enchanting midnight sun. I was reminded of the fact that Aavasaksa is the southernmost spot in Finland where you can witness the phenomenon of the nightless nights.
Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s part of the Struve Geodetic Arc, which is fascinating as it helps measure the Earth’s size and shape. We did not have time to enjoy exploring the nature trails and hiking routes that reveal spectacular views of the Tornio River leading into Sweden.
Oh, and it is one of Finland’s national landscapes, they reflect the country’s identity and unique characteristics.
Sharing this for John’s CellPic Sunday, I took these with my Iphone 17 Pro and edited them in LRC
Blooms of Pink Peonies
I love peonies, and I have a hard time getting my peonies to expand as I would like. Usually, I only have a few blooms, but this year, I am thrilled to have five, and that feels like a significant improvement for me. Despite my efforts, I suspect that I might be using the wrong soil, and I’m unsure about the best placement for them in my garden, which makes it a bit challenging. Nevertheless, I do enjoy watching them bloom and flourish, and each flower brings me immense joy as it displays its vibrant colors and lovely fragrance, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of nature.
The phone is handy and with me most of the time, so I took these with my IPhone 17 PRO for The Flower Hour
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 