
Silent Sunday


Participating in Debbies Six Word Saturday

For Dans Thursday Doors I am sharing doors to tourist traps in old town Tallinn, in Estonia




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 😁
Argyroupoli, located in Crete, truly captivated us during our visit! Situated roughly 20 km southwest of Rethymno, this charming mountain village offers stunning views at every turn. The village is perched at approximately 260 meters above sea level. Although the day was cloudy and breezy, it didn’t detract from its beauty, but it did limit our time there. The area is renowned for its natural springs and waterfalls, which are said to be amazing, energizing local mills and creating a refreshing ambiance ideal for unwinding at quaint cafes and tavernas. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see these attractions this time, and most cafes were closed since we visited prior to the tourist season.

The aged cobblestone streets, flanked by weathered rustic buildings, contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of this town. You can truly immerse yourself in the authentic essence of Cretan life, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Interestingly, this charming village is perched atop the ancient ruins of Lappa. At the heart of the square stands a picturesque church, a favorite meeting spot for both locals and curious tourists.



























The structures here showcase a remarkable blend of Venetian and Cretan architectural styles, each one telling its own story through the peeling paint and timeworn facades, which bear witness to the passage of time and the lives that once thrived within their walls. I find immense joy in capturing these nostalgic elements on camera, as each image evokes a sense reverence for the past, inviting viewers to imagine the vibrant stories these buildings could share. It is sad to see how houses in small towns like these are being abandoned and left to decay, their histories fading slowly into obscurity, and how the charm of their unique designs is overshadowed by neglect, making it all the more urgent to preserve their beauty before they vanish completely.

The Church of Saint John (Agios Ioannis) captures the eye with its striking bell tower, creating a stunning contrast against the adjacent whitewashed walls, evoking a sense of both history and beauty that is hard to resist. But for me the old buildings were the thing, as you can see from the huge amount of images.























Participating in Thursday Doors This week, I am excited to share an array of photos from our memorable trip to Crete in May, where the rich history and vibrant culture of the island inspired every click of the camera. Each door we encountered told its own story, reflecting the unique charm of the traditional Cretan homes, and I am happy to share you how these all with you.


Koiteli is a unique, nearly natural area of rapids in Oulu, Kiiminki district, only about 25 kilometers from the city center in the direction of Kuusamo and a provincially valuable attraction with cultural and historical importance. The area’s scenic value is formed by riverbeds, rapids, small islands, shores and nature.
I am still going through the Crete photos; it seems that I have a tendency to edit bits and pieces at a time. In a world where everything is expected to be posted and documented immediately, I’ve stepped or more like fallen back from that pressure—I’m never ready to share them that quickly. By the time I consider posting, the moment has already passed. Do you understand what I mean?
Social media has made it too quick for me to keep up with the constant flow of information and updates. As a result, I’ve mostly stopped posting there, feeling overwhelmed by the rapid pace of engagement that doesn’t allow for thoughtful reflection. I often find that I am never truly in the moment, as the pressure to share experiences instantly detracts from actually enjoying them.

Now after that rant, for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness: here are black and white, monochrome images from the Fortezza Fortress in Crete. This historical site, with its impressive architecture, offers a unique perspective on the rich history of the region. In my post from yesterday, I was below looking up, trying to capture the grandeur of the fortress that towers above the surrounding landscape. This time, however, these images are actually taken from within the fortress itself, allowing you to explore the intricate details. The timeless grandeur and the enduring strength of this magnificent structure of Crete’s ancient heritage.

The picture depicts the Church of Saint Catherine (Agia Ekaterini), located in the historic area of the Fortress .This charming Orthodox chapel, built of rugged limestone, dates back to the 19th century.

The Sultan Ibrahim Mosque is located within the Fortezza Fortress and was constructed in 1583, initially functioning as a church dedicated to Saint Nicholas during the era of Venetian control. Following the Ottomans’ conquest of Réthymno in 1646, the church was transformed into a mosque, at which point an 11-meter diameter dome was added, along with a minaret that has since been demolished.

The fortress is primarily built from rough limestone, and its walls can be up to 5 meters thick. The limestone arches looked interesting

With this last photo, I did two monochrome edits. As you can see, the other is in the same gray shades as all the photos above, while I tried more blue tones in the one. I still lean towards the more traditional black and white – gray shades. Don’t you think the mood changes in these two, even if it’s the same shot? Any thoughts about this?


Fortezza Fortress stands proudly in Rethymnon, Crete, Greece. I found myself seated by the seaside road, admiring the fortress while simultaneously looking at the stunning sight of the snow-capped mountains rising majestically in the distance. The view was a breathtaking contrast, with sea creating a mesmerizing panorama. We visited in May, and to our delight, the snow had yet to melt on the peaks, providing us with numerous excellent photography opportunities that encapsulated the beauty of the landscape. The rocky shoreline was not easy to walk on; that is only an observation from looking down at people moving about, carefully navigating the uneven terrain while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the sounds of waves crashing against the rocks.

The Fortezza Fortress, constructed by the Venetians in the 16th century, is perched on Paleokastro hill and provides stunning views of both the city and the sea. This fortress is a vital historical landmark on the island. Located to the north of the city and adjacent to the old town and the Venetian harbor, it was built between 1573 and 1580 to safeguard the city from pirate attacks.

























The two flowers are, the fig-marigold (scientific name Carpobrotus edulis), also known as the Hottentot fig or sour fig. This succulent plant, native to South Africa, has spread and become wild in many coastal areas around the world. Appearance: It has fleshy, triangular leaves and large, daisy-like flowers that range in color from white and pale yellow to bright red.
The prominent, aniline pink flowers depicted in the image are red campions.
The yellow flowers is, I think, dwarf clover (scientifically Anthyllis vulneraria), a perennial plant belonging to the legume family, commonly found in dry meadows and ridges perennial plant. It forms dense, spherical flowers that are usually golden yellow, but the petals can occasionally be lighter or have reddish tips.









The flowers with the butterfly is the night-scented stock (also known as Matthiola longipetala . This annual summer flower is famous for its strong, intoxicating fragrance that intensifies in the evenings and at night. Its modest, pale violet or purple flowers may appear wilted during the day, but they open up in the twilight.

It is just a flower photo. Live Red Sleeping Hibiscus it is called, and it caught my eye with its vibrant hues and delicate petals, prompting me to capture its beauty in a photograph. The striking color and unique shape of the flower stand out against the lush green backdrop. That’s about it about this one. Although simple, it represents the fleeting moments of beauty that nature offers us. Happy Tuesday from cool (15.5°C) and rainy Finland, where ran keeps me inside, perfect for posting the small wonders like this flower.

Prompted by lovely Margaret, for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. What she’s asking for are photos of subjects you’d normally choose to shoot in colour exactly because of their vibrant colours. The challenge lies in translating these vivid visuals into the stark yet expressive world of black and white photography. Can you transform these familiar hues into a captivating monochrome experience that holds its own allure? It’s an exciting test of creativity, pushing the boundaries of one’s artistic vision. Let’s see how I do in this intriguing endeavor, experimenting with contrasts, shadows, and textures to create images that resonate even without their natural colours.


Do you care for some strawberry cake? I found red rather tricky, so it did not appear too dark.


When considering the color purple, one might wonder how to make it truly pop without resorting to the use of stark white. There are various ways to enhance its vibrancy and create a more lively appearance. Utilizing textures or patterns alongside can also enhance its visual appeal, ensuring that it stands out while maintaining its rich character.


Art, when transitioning to monochrome, demands a keen understanding of color nuances and their emotional impact. This absence of color reveals the core essence of a subject, challenging artists to express their vision through shades of black, white, and gray. The monochromatic style highlights form and texture, encouraging deeper viewer engagement and interpretation, making it a compelling exploration for both artists and audiences in a colorful world.


So how did I do.?
In the window with no glass, is it truly a window? Just a question that lingers in the air. A group of domestic pigeons, also known as doves, have taken refuge here, finding solace of the outside world. The barred window, embedded in the aged stone wall, likely serves as a safe haven for the birds, much like a traditional pigeon loft where they can rest and gather. This quaint space, with its rustic charm, provides them shelter from the elements, allowing the pigeons to huddle together, cooing softly to one another as they bask in the warmth of the sun that dapples through the gaps. The stone, weathered by time and the elements, tells stories of seasons gone by.

The photos were taken in Argyroupoli, Crete in May, there is rich history of this charming village. With its picturesque ancient ruins, every corner of Argyroupoli tells a story steeped in tradition. I’m now sharing these images with Monday Window.





There was a moment when it did not rain, as we visited Tamminiemi today, in the link you can find more information about the place
The Jugendstil villa, designed by Finnish architects Sigurd Frosterus and Gustaf Strengell, was built in 1904 for businessman Jörgen Nissen and later owned by publisher Amos Anderson in 1924, who renovated it. Feeling lonely there, Anderson mostly stayed in his apartment and rented out the villa. Following a suggestion from President Kyösti Kallio, he agreed to donate the villa to the state in 1940 with conditions regarding its lease, but Kallio died before he could reside there, shortly after resigning for health reasons.

Presidents Risto Ryti and C. G. E. Mannerheim lived at Tamminiemi, while J. K. Paasikivi preferred the Presidential Palace; however, the villa is most associated with Urho Kekkonen, who resided there for nearly thirty years and made it the hub of Finnish politics from 1956 to 1982. After resigning due to health issues in 1982, Kekkonen remained at Tamminiemi, which became his private nursing home until his death in 1986.
This is true to me: During his term of office that lasted a quarter of a century Tamminiemi came into the public eye: Tamminiemi and Kekkonen became almost synonymous.
In this post, I am sharing photos of the quick tour we took there. I have to say times were different, but the house was very modest by any standards for the head of state.

Tamminiemi is located in a park by the sea. This sea scene under a dramatic sky filled with thick, heavy gray clouds that suggest an impending storm. The water of the sea is calm, reflecting the moody sky above and the lush green trees that line the distant shoreline. The dense foliage along the banks adds a natural, untouched feel to the landscape, contrasting with a faint glimpse of buildings nestled among the trees. It feels tranquil yet slightly ominous atmosphere, emphasizing the interplay between nature and weather.


In 1956 the interior of the house was largely renovated and modernized, so that there aren’t many details left of the original Art Nouveau style. At the same time, a sauna was built down by the waterside.
Shared with John’s Cellpic Sunday

























I struggle to remember building names, which led me to do some Google research to accurately name the architectural buildings I took in December 2018. Debbie’s One Word Sunday inspired me to find names and little bit of information of the towering buildings, here is a link to her post: Tall.




For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday.
Here a photos from May trip to Rethymno, I took a lot of street photos in the towns we visited. Most are still not posted. The post features a collection of street photographs taken during a May trip to Rethymno, capturing the essence of the town. Among the highlights is a charming old building with a weathered door, ornate gate, and inviting café atmosphere. Other images showcase cozy alleys filled with quaint tables, vibrant storefronts, and charming pastel buildings. Each photo reflects daily life in Rethymno, conveying warmth and nostalgia. The author expresses a fondness for these moments, highlighting the interplay between the town’s beauty and human connection.

This photo captures the charming entrance of an old building, showcasing a weathered wooden door nestled within vibrant yellow stone walls and archways. I couldn’t resist the allure of the ornate metal gate, framed by delicate dry vines, which adds an enchanting touch. Two bicycles leaning against the gate feel like they belong to friends who’ve just popped in for a quick bite. Speaking of which, the blackboard to the left tempted me with its handwritten menu items like Greek salad, tzatziki, and a classic hot dog—perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The cozy wooden bench and cobblestone pavement create an inviting atmosphere, making this spot all the more special to capture.


This delightful image was snapped to capture a moment that feels like stepping into a charming little world. You can just picture yourself wandering down this narrow alleyway, flanked by those lovely beige and yellow buildings. The small outdoor tables with their quaint white chairs beckon you to sit a while and enjoy a coffee, perhaps a pastry, surrounded by little vases g with flowers that add a touch of warmth. And that trellis overhead? It’s like a cozy hug, with its bare branches weaving together to create a rustic canopy. In the background, you can see a few friendly faces enjoying the vibe, which just makes the whole place feel so inviting and relaxed. It’s the kind of spot that wraps you in its charm and makes you want to linger a little longer.

This photo captures a delightful little street in a charming Rethymno town in Crete, where time seems to slow down just for a moment. You can almost feel the inviting atmosphere of the outdoor café on the left, where locals and visitors alike enjoy their coffee under soft cream-colored awnings, the warm glow of lights adding a touch of magic to the scene. Just beyond, the vibrant display at “LINEN & COTTON in ARET” showcases an array of colorful t-shirts that dance in the breeze. I couldn’t help but notice the café staff member, who seems to draw the attention to the whole scene to life as she balances her tray and keeps an eye with the area around her. The cobblestone street, lined with charming buildings adorned with shutters and wrought-iron balconies, sets the perfect backdrop for this slice of everyday life, blending the charm of the picturesque with the warmth of human connection. It’s a moment I wanted to capture, to reminisce about those slow, beautiful afternoons spent soaking in the sights and sounds of street life.

This photo was taken during a late afternoon stroll down a charming urban street that blends the old with the new. I was drawn to the pastel hues of the buildings—beige, peach, and soft pink—that seem to whisper stories of the past. The central building with its shuttered windows and quaint wrought-iron balcony had me imagining the lives of those who once called it home. I couldn’t help but notice a line of scooters parked along the street, hinting at the vibrant life that fills this area. Just then, a woman in a dark coat caught my eye as she walked toward the camera, embodying the everyday hustle of city life. In the background, two men relaxed on a rooftop near the ASIKIKO restaurant sign, perfectly capturing that casual, laid-back vibe that makes urban exploration so enjoyable.
I liked how the group of people was at the top of the building, as I zoomed in it was a moment there was three instead of two friends found themselves on a terrace, just taking a break from work or chatting. It’s one of those light-filled days when the soft natural afternoon sunlight paints everything in a warm glow, making the weathered walls and stone surfaces feel alive with stories.

Dans Thursday Doors

I took this photo because I was hunting for interesting doors for Dans Thursday Doors and I was captivated by the old, weathered double wooden door. It was painted in a pale, muted color, but the significant peeling and chipping really revealed the underlying wood’s character. Each door panel had this interesting latticed section at the top, which added a textured pattern, while the bottom panels were solid and showed extensive paint deterioration. What struck me was how the doors were secured with a metal chain wrapped around two green handles, making it seem like they were locked or out of use. The yellowish wall surrounding the doors had its own story with patches of peeling paint and dark spots, giving off an overall vibe of age and neglect. Plus, the small white plaque above the doors with the number 18 and the letter of notice set under the door piqued my curiosity about what lay behind them.
Few more 😀🫢If using a computer to read my post, for a better view click the gallery to enlarge the photos









As an afterthought, I am adding these photos; it was not really my intention to do so. We also walked to the Rethymnon lighthouse, located on the island of Crete in Greece. This historical landmark, built of stone in the Venetian harbor, was constructed during the Ottoman period and continues to be one of the area’s most famous attractions.










Posted for Terri’s Flower Hour

Just on of the cabins, houses I spotted as we drove in North Norway, I really liked that classic sod roof. My camera was always pointing at them if I noticed them.


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









To One Word Sunday at Debbie’s here


Let’s create a short story based on this image, as it ignited my creativity with tales of adventure, where each shadow concealed a mystery and every beam of light opened up fresh opportunities. As the narrative evolved, I started to compose a poem about it, encapsulating the journey and the feelings that surged within me as I transformed the image into written words.
As the sole vehicle meandered along the twisting road, its headlights sliced through the mist that blanketed the landscape like a cozy quilt. Inside, a lone driver sat, her fingers clutching the steering wheel as though it were a life raft in a stormy sea of her own making. The heavy clouds above reflected her mood—a confusing cocktail of introspection and a touch of sadness that seemed to cling to her like a second skin. The rhythmic patter of rain against the windshield was like a soft lullaby, soothing yet heavy, reminding her of thoughts that were forever just out of reach. With each bend in the road, as hills dipped and rose like the memories she cherished, she found herself reminiscing about brighter days, now cast in shadow by the dreary weather. The delicate beauty of the rainy day was a stark contrast to the whirlwind in her heart, prompting her to ponder the evanescent nature of joy. Yet amid the sorrow, she felt a profound connection to the world outside; nature, in its damp serenity, seemed to cradle her feelings, and for a brief moment, she let herself drift into the stillness, allowing the calm to wash over her like a gentle tide.

Beads, beach, bike, birds, book, bouquet, bugs, bees, bubbles, baby, birch trees, bottle, boy in some order
B is the theme this Week from Beth, she would pick a letter her name starts with 😂 It us a good thing I write my blog in english as there are not that many words starting with B in Finnish language.



A baby boy with blonde hair wearing a striped long-sleeve shirt with green cuffs, red pants, and white sneakers is squatting down on a wet surface, possibly a shallow beach. The child is intently looking at and reaching towards a small object on the ground. The calm water creates a clear reflection of the child, enhancing the visual symmetry.










That is what I have for you this week; this was easier as I am using photos that I have shared before at some point. I find it quite convenient to revisit these images, This week, I aim to provide you with a deeper understanding of the context behind each image, enhancing your appreciation for the homework I’ve done to get appropriate information of the subject.

Thanks a lot, John, for last week’s great challenge! It really made me think and pushed my creative limits. I saw many cool takes on the theme that sparked my imagination, and I found new perspectives I hadn’t considered before. The range of responses showed how great it is to collaborate and share ideas. Now, Beth has created a fun challenge this week with an exciting B theme that will surely inspire us all. I can’t wait to see how everyone approaches this new challenge and the fresh ideas we’ll contribute! If you would like to join the challenge, please be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to his post Lens-Artists #404: THINGS THAT BEGIN WITH B. We invite everyone to share their creative interpretations and explore the theme together.
I think we are all ready for a small blogging break. So we, the Lens-Artists, are on a short summer break to recharge our creative spirits, reflect on our experiences, and gather inspiration for future challenges. Next challenge will be hosted by Ann-Christine, Saturday 18th July. Until then, enjoy the summer and take care.

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

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
The image shows a traditional Norwegian log house with that classic sod roof. These buildings are an important part of Scandinavia’s architectural history. You know, those sod roofs (Torvtak) have been around since the Viking days and throughout the Middle Ages. They’ve got some great practical perks: for one, that thick layer of turf keeps the place cozy in winter and nice and cool in summer. Plus, the weight of the roof tightens up the log structure and helps stabilize the whole building. Usually, the roof is made up of a few layers of birch bark, and then they add two layers of turf on top.

For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday. with few added words.
I have a tendency to overthink these challenges and am stuck with choosing the photos for them. Here I am once again caught in this mental spiral, feeling paralyzed by my own expectations. To be honest, it is suitably annoying every time, as I find myself questioning every little detail. I start to analyze the colors, the composition, and even how well the images resonate with the theme I’m trying to convey. This self-imposed pressure makes the task feel more daunting than it really is, which only adds to my frustration. I know I just need to pick something and move on, but the fear of making the wrong choice keeps pulling me back into this cycle of indecision. And all this over a weekly photo challenge 😂 I am totally aware no one looks at them that closely.







I fell in love with North Norway, especially for its breathtaking mountains. The scale of the mountains is impossible to capture. The images captures Hatteng, located along the E6 road in the municipality of Storfjorden, where the impressive Otertinden mountain, rising to 1356 meters, dominates the background. This photo showcases a scenic highway, with the E6 winding through the verdant landscapes of the Lyngenfjord and Signaldalen valleys, flanked by dense trees. In the foreground, a black car drives away from the viewer, with a few caravans visible further ahead. Towering mountains with rugged, rocky peaks, some adorned with patches of snow, rise majestically under a bright blue sky dappled with clouds.




Standing on the Skibotn pier by the Lyngenfjord, you’ll be captivated by the incredible perspective offered by the vast landscape around you. The majestic Lyngen Alps loom impressively, their jagged peaks soaring over 1,800 meters, giving you a real sense of depth and scale that is simply breathtaking. As you take in the view, you can spot specific formations: Lyngen Alps (Lyngsalpene) dramatically lining the fjord’s western side, Nallagais, a notable local peak, and Imagais, the massif that rises directly above the scenery. Don’t forget Balggesvarr, which frames the area beautifully, along with Storfjellet, the “Great Mountain” that stands proud in Storfjord municipality, and the peaks around Steindalsbreen, bordering the nearby glacier valley, all enhancing the impressive scale of this stunning region.

A wide landscape photo showcases a serene coastal scene with shallow water and patches of exposed ground in the foreground, emphasizing the vastness of the beach. In the distance, a calm body of water stretches towards a majestic range of misty Lyngenfjord mountains partially covered in snow, which loom high above and are shrouded by low clouds, enhancing the sense of scale. Small boats dot the water, illustrating the scale of the landscape and providing perspective against the imposing mountains. Soft rays of sunlight pierce through the clouds, casting gentle illumination on the rugged terrain and creating a peaceful, ethereal atmosphere. The sky above is mostly clear with scattered clouds, adding to the tranquil and expansive feeling of the scene.
Last week, your replies to Sofia’s challenge showcased some awesome wonders from all over the globe, highlighting the incredible variety of natural and man-made marvels that our planet has to offer. Big thanks to everyone who jumped in on the challenge and shared their unique perspectives! I am still continuing the theme here, as the views were so wondrous that I felt compelled to explore even more aspects of these remarkable sights. The majestic mountains, the beauty of our world.
Thanks to John for this week’s great challenge. I have to say I struggled with this one. I have worked on it for days, mostly trying to find new photos for it, and that meant editing my raw files. If you would like to join the challenge, please be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to his post Lens-Artists #403: Perspective, Depth, and Scale.
Be sure to check back on Saturday, June 27 at noon eastern time when Beth will be hosting the challenge.
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.

For Dan’s Thursday Doors