Everyday Life: Laundry and Turquoise Doors in Focus

The facade of a rustic building characterized by bright turquoise wooden doors and window shutters set against white, textured walls. A small porch area in front of the entrance houses two upside-down wooden chairs balanced on a small white table, terracotta pots with plants, and a drying rack with white clothes pinned to it. The scene is accented by a potted plant with green leaves climbing near the door and vibrant red flowers in the foreground. The color contrast between the vivid blue paint and the neutral white walls, alongside the aged, weathered textures, evokes a charming, cozy atmosphere typical of a Crete Island atown

An elderly woman with gray hair and glasses is seen hanging white laundry on a red drying rack positioned outdoors, near a blue door and white wall. She wears a black long-sleeved top and is focused on attaching clothes with colorful clothespins. The setting includes a climbing green plant on the wall, adding a natural element to the scene. This was a quiet, everyday moment with warm, natural lighting that highlights the textures and colors of the environment and the laundry.

Participating in Dan’s Thursday Doors

Nature Reclaims: The Story of an Abandoned House

I wrote a piece of fiction to go with these images of an abandoned house, illustrating the eerie silence that envelops the crumbling walls and overgrown garden. As I delved deeper into the story, the forgotten echoes of the past began to emerge, trying to paint a picture of the lives once lived within those decaying rooms. The shadows seemed to whisper secrets, share my take of the the mysteries that lay hidden beneath the layers of dust and time.

In the heart of a forgotten village, there stood an old, rundown house that held the whispers of its vibrant past. It had a faded, cracked exterior and a barely intact tiled roof, with memories of joyful days trapped in every corner. The walls, now worn and discolored, showed glimpses of the brick and stone beneath, framing the door and windows like silent guardians of time. This house used to belong to the Georgiou family, who left it behind decades ago following a series of unfortunate events. The wooden door, slightly open and well-worn, hinted at laughter and love that once filled the space, now muted by silence. The windows, partially covered with old shutters, were entwined with greenery, as nature gradually took back what people had forsaken. Surrounding the house, wild grass danced in the breeze, while a bare, spindly tree reached for the sky—a testament to resilience and a haunting reminder of the family’s departure. Above, the heavy clouds seemed to grieve for a life that used to buzz with energy, as if the past longed to be acknowledged once again.

the deteriorating corner of an old, rustic roof made of curved terracotta tiles,

The deteriorating corner of an old, rustic roof made of curved terracotta tiles, many of which are covered with patches of moss and appear weathered and broken. Below the roof, the wall shows signs of decay with exposed bricks and crumbling plaster, revealing various textures and layers of construction materials. Bare tree branches extend across the lower left of the frame, contrasting with the warm earthy tones of the roof and wall. The sky is clear and bright, adding a subtle contrast to the aged, textured structures in the foreground. Can you see a doll on the roof, or is it just me? What is the story there?

The weathered window

The weathered window set into an old, deteriorating wall once belonged their daughter Eleni spent her childhood. The window shutters are wooden and painted red, but the paint is severely chipped and peeling, revealing the worn wood beneath. Eleni would often sit by this window, dreaming of adventures beyond the walls, her imagination ignited by the vibrant world outside. Below the window, overgrown green plants and small yellow flowers grow along the ledge and the base of the wall, remnants of Eleni’s once-cared-for garden where she picked flowers for her mother. As she grew older, the dreams by this window transformed into aspirations of travel, writing stories inspired by the landscapes she envisioned. The wall itself shows signs of decay, with cracked plaster and exposed bricks, echoing the passage of time since the family moved away, leaving behind a rustic and abandoned atmosphere with earthy, muted colors, which now serve as a silent witness to her cherished memories. This window became a portal for Eleni, connecting her past with a future filled with hopes of re-exploring the wild beauty beyond the walls that once confined her.

A Weathered Building in Crete

While I was in Crete, I came across this small, weathered two-story building that really caught my eye. It had a flat, tiled roof and the exterior was quite worn, with peeling paint all over. I noticed it had a single window with a roller shutter on the upper part, and there was this interesting balcony-like feature adorned with four diamond-shaped yellow accents. It seemed to have some antennas and cables cluttering the roof, including a satellite dish and an old TV antenna, and a subpanel and a water tank for warm water, which hinted that someone lived there, even though the door does not suggest that. This building gives mixed signals. The building was surrounded by tall grass and colorful wildflowers, and in the background, there were lush green trees under a clear sky. It was in a peaceful, rural area, and the atmosphere was kind of lonely.

Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors even if it’s Friday.

Not a Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday turned into something else; as I am asking which version do you prefer? I initially created it this post to share one photo without the clutter of words, allowing the imagery to speak for itself. However, adding a another edit of the same photo led me to ask which one resonates more. Now I find myself curious about your thoughts?

Snow-capped mountains emerging through misty clouds above a lush green landscape / version 1
Snow-capped mountains emerging through misty clouds above a lush green landscape .Version 2

Monochrome Photography of the Egyptian Lighthouse

This time I am sharing images of The Egyptian Lighthouse for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. It is among the oldest lighthouses in the world, and it stands as a testament to maritime history, guiding sailors safely into the harbor for centuries. I tried to add an old photo touch to them to invoke a sense of nostalgia, highlighting the lighthouse’s timeless charm and the stories it could tell if only its walls could speak.

I captured a solitary man sitting on a wooden bench by the waterfront, facing the prominent Egyptian Lighthouse. The lighthouse stands tall on a rugged stone pier, with a small group of people visible at the base, adding a sense of scale and human presence. The foreground reflects the soft light, while the clear sky enhances a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. What I wanted was to depict architectural strength intertwined with quiet solitude, utilizing monochromatic tones that emphasize texture and contrast to evoke some emotions in this and all the other photos I edited for this post.

A solitary man sitting on a wooden bench by the waterfront, facing the prominent Egyptian Lighthouse.

The Egyptian Lighthouse is one of the oldest in the world and is located in the old harbor of Chania. It’s a stone structure that sits at the end of the breakwater, serving as a “guard” for the old Venetian harbor and is actually the most photographed spot in the Prefecture.

A peaceful seaside scene with people relaxing on benches near the lighthouse on a calm waterfront.
People strolling and sitting near vintage lamp posts on a pier.
The Egyptian Lighthouse

The Venetians built it in the late 16th century, but it was later rebuilt by the Egyptians between 1830 and 1840 when Crete was under the regent of Egypt, Mehmet Ali. By the time the Ottoman Empire was winding down, they had added a ladder on the east side and some pipes for seawater to flow under its base. The lighthouse stands 21 meters tall, covers an area of 26 square meters, and its light can be seen from about 7 nautical miles away. It has an octagonal base, a part with 16 angles in the middle, and a circular top.

Monday Portrait

Monday portrait of a brown goat.

During our Crete trip I came across this stunning dark brown goat with shaggy fur. It was just standing there on this rocky, grassy hillside, looking straight at me with such a calm and curious expression—like it was as intrigued by me as I was by it. What really caught my eye was the lighter brown coloring around its eyes and nose, and those small, gently curved horns added so much character. The backdrop was a beautifully blurred mountainous landscape in soft blues and grays. I can’t tell you how delighted I was to capture that moment! It really emphasized the peacefulness of the goat’s solitary presence out there in the rugged outdoors.

Roadside Views in Crete

As I approached, I noticed a large, lush green tree standing majestically at the crest of a gently curving road. I have an old photo of the same place. I remembered this well. This time beneath its branches, two parked vehicles caught my eye, including a old Toyota pickup truck . A solitary chair was placed nearby under the welcoming shade, adding an aura of stillness and solitude to the scene. Above, the sky was mostly overcast, with patches of blue peeking through, creating a moody atmosphere. On the right side of the road, a brightly colored sign in Greek hinted at a nearby cafe or a tavern. This was an overall roadside experience that stayed with me. We stopped there to see the scenery from there.

A majestic green tree and recalled an old photo of the spot.

You know, as I was looking at that vast mountainous landscape, I couldn’t help but admire the beauty of it. The layers of green hills and valleys just draw you in, all under this soft, hazy sky. It’s amazing how the dense forests and terraced fields blend together, creating this wonderful pattern of nature and cultivation. And those small roads winding through the terrain—they really add to the charm. You can barely spot a few buildings hidden among all that greenery. The whole vibe is so serene and expansive, with these muted, earthy tones that make the whole scene feel incredibly calming.

The layers of green hills and valleys in Crete are lovely in the spring

A weird feature of the Greek roads is the small shrines on the roadside, commonly referred to as iconostasis or small churches. These exist everywhere, whether the road is in the center of a big city or in a small village, on major highways or on the mountains on bad dirt roads. One can often spot models of churches, like that small, handmade model mounted on a white pedestal set against a lovely grassy outdoor backdrop. Just look at that red dome with the golden cross on top! Those cream-colored walls and charming little blue windows really catch the eye too. s. The iconostasis serves as an offering-expression of gratitude to the god from those who had an accident, adding a slice of spirituality to the serene and contemplative landscape.

the small shrines on the roadside, commonly referred to as iconostasis or small churches

Last on the Card – April 2026

Sony 7III

By the beach in Maleme a pair of weathered wooden benches positioned on a grassy patch adorned with small purple and yellow wildflowers, a large, leafy tree with a thick trunk, providing a natural backdrop and some shade. The sky is overcast, casting a soft, muted light over the scene. In the blurred background, distant buildings and conifer trees are faintly visible, adding depth and context to this tranquil outdoor setting. My last on the card is from Crete.

Last shot with my OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

A timeworn monastery in Crete, known as the Gouverneto Monastery (or the Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels), is an active place of worship that beautifully showcases its yellow, textured facade, with signs of peeling paint that speak to its age. Notice the small wooden-framed windows and distinctive terracotta-tiled roof, topped with a dome and cross? This architectural detail certainly highlights its importance as a historical and religious site. In the foreground, verdant greenery, including a leafy tree and tall cypress bushes, frames the scene, introducing a natural element that adds depth to the composition. Meanwhile, the rugged hills in the background sit beneath an overcast sky, contributing to a tranquil and timeless ambiance. Established in 1537, the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and serves as a starting point for a popular hiking trail leading to the Arkouditissa Cave and the ruins of the abandoned Katholiko Monastery. It’s interesting to note that it was originally built as a Venetian-style fortress to protect the monks from pirate raids, featuring thick walls and defensive towers, which further emphasizes its significance on the island of Crete.

Iphone 17 Pro

A serene night scene featuring a bright full moon partially obscured by thin, wispy clouds. Silhouettes of various trees, including leafless branches and a spruce, frame the moon and enhance the depth of the composition. The sky exhibits deep blue tones transitioning to lighter shades near the horizon, creating a mystical and tranquil atmosphere. Back home or our summer house, emphasizing the natural beauty of a quiet night in the countryside. Taken at 23:19 before May 1st – a day of celebration in Finland.

Participating on Brian’s Last on the Card April 2026

The Gouverneto Monastery – nearly the last one 😀 as a header

Exploring Rustic Architecture: Doors And Windows

I took considerable time and effort to capture lots of doors and windows during our trip, making it a true photographic adventure. Each door and window reflects unique stories, revealing the charm of every location we visited. So these images are fresh from the oven, so to speak; I meticulously edited them today, ensuring they showcase the intricate details and colors that make them stand out. I did these especially for Dan’s Thursday Doors, community that appreciates the beauty of architectural elements.

This rural Crete landscape features a quaint, rustic house with a tiled roof and white walls nestled amidst abundant greenery. Surrounding the house are various trees, bushes, and patches of wild grass, including some orange trees bearing fruit. Beyond the house, a hillside covered with dense, lush vegetation and scattered bushes rises gently under a cloudy sky, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The muted, overcast lighting highlights the vibrant greens and earth tones, emphasizing the tranquil countryside setting.
Weathered building in Crete

This rugged building, characterized by its cracks in the plaster and a weathered wooden door, exudes a certain charm that looks particularly striking in photos. Its aged exterior tells stories of times long past, hinting at a history that adds depth to its appearance. While the visual appeal is undeniable, one might wonder if this intriguing structure holds any other remarkable qualities. Perhaps it conceals memories or maybe the atmosphere within is just as captivating as its façade, inviting exploration and discovery for those who venture inside.

Door that has seen better days

The Charm of Crete in Black and White Photography

I am currently facing some challenges in getting back into the rhythm of blogging, but I’m determined to overcome this creative block. I’m excited to participate in one of my favorites, Leanne’s Monochrome Madness, as black and white photography is a passion of mine. I look forward to showcasing my unique perspective through this medium.

This black-and-white i landscape with a silhouette of several leafless trees against a gradient sky that transitions from dark gray at the top to lighter near the horizon. The trees are situated on a rocky and slightly hilly terrain covered with sparse vegetation. The aim was for he composition to emphasize the intricate, intricate branches of the trees, creating a stark contrast with the smooth sky. The overall mood is calm and introspective, enhanced the subtle texture of the clouds.

Recently, I have been editing photos from a delightful short trip to Crete, where the stunning landscapes and rich history offered countless opportunities for captivating black and white images that truly reflect the island’s unique charm. Each photo tells a story, capturing fleeting moments of beauty, and I can’t wait to reveal the allure of Crete in this timeless art form, hoping to inspire myself to embrace the joy of photography once again and foster a deeper connection with my creative side. Although we initially sought warm and sunny weather for our exploration, we were only fortunate enough to experience two beautiful days, with the rest unexpectedly turning cloudy and windy, which transformed our plans in unanticipated ways and added an element of spontaneity to our journey. Renting a car for four days provided us with the freedom to explore breathtaking mountains with dramatic vistas, charming cities adorned with historical architecture, and stunning sea views that left us in awe of nature’s artistry. While the weather shift made our adventures more challenging, especially considering my wardrobe choices that were geared towards sunnier conditions, the comfortable travel clothes I wore helped me adapt to the cooler temperatures and unpredictable winds, allowing me to fully enjoy discovering new places without the discomfort of being underdressed. Each day brought new experiences, moments of laughter, and a reminder that sometimes the best parts of a trip come from embracing the unexpected.

A lone, leafless tree standing on a rugged hillside under a cloudy sky.
A mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks partially shrouded in mist or low-hanging clouds. The foreground features darker forested slopes with dense clusters of evergreen trees, creating a stark contrast against the lighter, snow-streaked mountain ridges in the background. The overcast sky adds a moody, atmospheric quality to the scene, emphasizing the natural ruggedness and tranquility of the setting. I hope the image conveys a sense of vastness and quiet solitude in a pristine wilderness environment.
Looking at the a foggy, rocky mountain landscape densely populated with trees and shrubs in the distance. The mist creates a soft, ethereal atmosphere, obscuring the background and blending the edges of the barren trees and foliage. In the composition I did a gradual transition from darker, more detailed foreground vegetation to a hazy, almost white sky, enhancing the sense of depth and mystery. The aim was for overall mood to be tranquil yet eerie, evoking a quiet, contemplative moment in nature.
I am always on the lookout for a lone tree, why I don’t know they appeal to me. The image shows a stark, leafless tree with multiple gnarled branches extending upwards against a muted, cloudy sky. The tree stands atop a rugged, rocky mountain, creating a dramatic contrast between the dark, intricate silhouette of the branches and the textured ground below. The overall monochrome color scheme adds a somber and contemplative mood to the scene, emphasizing the raw natural forms and the starkness of the barren environment.

Lens-Artists #395 – Looking Back to #155 “On The Water”

This week, Beth’s challenge is to revisit #155, “on the water.” I didn’t take part in these challenges back then, so it’s new for me and am I going overboard with this theme.

For this challenge,she is looking forward to seeing our interpretation of “On the Water”. It can be rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, oceans, puddles, swimming pools or water parks. Think about scenic views of water, people having fun on the water, watercraft on the water, macros of water drops, or animals, birds, and plants floating on the water.She does give us lots of options.

What I am sharing in these images is my fascination with the waves and the rhythm they create as they roll and crash against the shore. The smooth pebbles, worn down by years of continuous motion, invite you to touch them, and you can be calmed down by rubbing your fingers across the surface of each one, feeling their coolness and texture. I am totally aware of the abundance of images I have taken, but if you open the galleries, you can quickly scroll through them and perhaps pause on a few, giving yourself the chance to truly appreciate my admiration for the power of water.

The colors, the movement, the power.

These memories were captured on a beautifully windy, cloudy, and cool day in Crete, our last day, and they resonate deeply within me. I spent a couple of hours observing as the waves with gust crashed against the shore, each crash echoing ln my heart, a melody only the sea could compose. As I sat there, drawn to the rhythm of the ocean, I appreciated the horizon, where the sky met the water in a endless embrace. The invigorating spray of sea water touched my skin, refreshing and full of life, while the salty breeze provided a familiar comfort, reminding me of my connection with the sea, a bond formed through countless sunrises and sunsets. With each gust of wind, I was more in touch with the moment, a clear sense of peace and tranquility.

Watching the waves is meditative

Even on a cloudy day you can find things to do together


Pebbles on the beach

This concludes my week! I thoroughly enjoyed reflecting on this old challenge and considering how to approach it. It was a new experience for me. A huge thank you to Beth for her guidance—make sure to link your response to her post here. Additionally, your contributions to John’s “History Through the Lens” challenge last week were fantastic. Remember to return on Saturday, May 2 at noon eastern time, when Ann-Christine will lead the next challenge.

If you’re participating in the Lens‑Artists Challenge for the first time, welcome—we look forward to visiting your post. To join in, simply publish your take on this week’s theme, link back to Beth’s page, and add the Lens‑Artists tag so that others can find your work.

Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.

Here we are The Lens-Artists: TinaPattiAnn-ChristineJohnSofiaAnneEgidioBeth, and myself Ritva.

If you are ever feeling lost

…or with out perspective. Change your focus.

A weathered wooden sign with the word ‘LOST’ stands amidst tall grasses and wildflowers against a muted background.

Participating in SixWordSaturday.

A close-up of a field of purple flowers with a blurred ‘LOST’ sign in the background, creating a contrast between nature and an intriguing message.

Lens-Artists Challenge #394—History Through the Lens

John’s challenge is to feature places “where history still lives”. One of John’s suggested topics “Where the Past Still Stands”is the inspiration for this post. I am not a history buff, but I do like visiting historic sights- sometimes. But history is something we need to know and understand so hopefully we do not repeat the mistakes done. At this moment – that is evident history of war and its consequences has been not studied. When do we learn?

We visited the Suda Bay War Cemetery in Crete last week, a place filled with history and remembrance. It always stirs strong feelings to see these memorials for the young men who lost their lives in wars, with each gravestone telling a story of courage and sacrifice. Walking among the rows of white markers made me think about the personal losses faced by these individuals and the effects of war on families and communities. I often question the reasons behind it—how power struggles and political choices can lead to such devastation. It’s striking to see this collection of gravestones, each a reminder of lives cut short and the lessons we should remember as we move forward.

A vast military cemetery with rows of uniform light-colored gravestones on green grass. Each gravestone bears inscriptions including crosses and honors soldiers from the 1939-1945 war.

A sprawling military cemetery stretches before us, where countless rows of light-colored gravestones stand sentinel amidst the lush green grass. Each gravestone, etched with heartfelt inscriptions and adorned with crosses, pays homage to the brave souls who valiantly fought in the 1939-1945 war, some tragically marked ‘Unknown unto God’. Delicate flowers and gentle bushes are tenderly placed throughout the hallowed ground, offering a touch of beauty and solace. The atmosphere respectful, a profound sense of loss and gratitude intertwining, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice and valor of those who gave everything for their country.

Some headstones bear just the inscription, “Known unto God.”

A close-up of a New Zealand soldier’s gravestone from World War II, set in a peaceful cemetery

Intertwined resting places of the Royal Air Force belonging to a plane that was downed on October 28, 1942, alongside a complete fleet that was lost.

Memorial headstones honoring Royal New Zealand Air Force and Royal Air Force servicemen who died on 28th October 1942


History information

In May 1941, the Commonwealth force in Crete was organised in five widely separated defence areas along the north coast – around the three airfields at Iraklion, Rethymnon and Maleme, and at Suda Bay and the port of Chania. The Germans launched their attack on 20 May with airborne troops. The airfield at Maleme was quickly captured and used for landing German reinforcements. On 23 May, the remainder of the Maleme position had to be given up and its defenders fell back to Chania. On 26 May, the Allied line west of Chania was broken. Suda Bay became indefensible and the troops from these two positions, with the remainder of the Maleme garrison, withdrew across the island to Sfakion, where many of them were evacuated by sea on the nights of the 28 – 31 May. The airborne attacks on the Iraklion and Rethymnon positions on 20 May were repulsed. Iraklion was successfully defended until the night of 29/29 May when the garrison was evacuated by sea. Orders for the Rethymnon garrison to fight its way southward for evacuation did not arrive, and it was overwhelmed on 31 May. Of the total Commonwealth land force of 32,000 men, 18,000 were evacuated, 12,000 were taken prisoner and 2,000 were killed.

The site of Suda Bay War Cemetery was chosen after the war and graves were moved there by 21st and 22nd Australian War Graves Units from the four burial grounds that had been established by the German occupying forces at Chania, Iraklion, Rethymnon and Galata, and from isolated sites and civilian cemeteries.

Click the gallery for a better view.

There are now 1,500 Commonwealth servicemen of the Second World War buried or commemorated in the cemetery. 776 of the burials are unidentified but special memorials commemorate a number of casualties believed to be buried among them. The cemetery also contains 19 First World War burials brought in from Suda Bay Consular Cemetery, 1 being unidentified. There are also 7 burials of other nationalities and 37 non-war burials.

Many thanks to John for this week’s challenge. 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 #394: History through the Lens.

A big thanks to Sofia for her challenge last week, “Lucky Shots.” Next week, it’s Beth’s turn to host. Be sure to follow her [here] so you don’t miss her challenge that goes live on Saturday at noon Eastern Time.

If you’re sharing a Lens‑Artists Challenge response for the first time, welcome—we’d love to visit your post. To participate, publish your take on this week’s theme, link back to John’s page, and add the Lens‑Artists tag so others can discover your work.

Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.

Here we are The Lens-Artists: TinaPattiAnn-ChristineJohnSofiaAnneEgidioBeth, and myself Ritva.

Move on, move on, move on

After a week in Crete, I am back For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday.

Shepherd at work
Move on
You too
We are so obedient

Something we don’t see that much, or at all in Finland.

Lens-Artist Challenge #307 – Tourist Attractions Near and Far

A massive thank you to Leanne for being our Guest Host this week. I have admired Leanne’s photography for years, when she first started to do Monochrome Madness I participated, so for a long time I have been a fan of her style. Her post is full of beautiful destinations and they are absolutely gorgeous images. Please go and visit her blog for inspiration.

Firstly, it’s worth mentioning that while I haven’t been able to indulge in much traveling lately or pursued photography actively, there is no shortage of remarkable places I’ve had the privilege to visit. Each location has left an indelible impression on me, and the memories I’ve collected continue to offer a source of joy and introspection. The difficulty lies in singling out just one favorite, as each destination holds its own unique charm.

I have not posted these photos taken on the beach in Stavros yet, but I am I sharing them with you now. Stavros, a very small town on the peninsula of Arkotiri on the island of Crete in Greece, nothing special in the town itself. Stavros is world famous because the film “Zorba the Greek” with Anthony Quinn was shot here in 1964 .The beach itself may not be the most visually stunning one we have visited, but the allure of its cinematic history enticed us to explore its shores and take these few photos further down the beach

“Zorba the Greek” beach
Beach at Stavros

The place itself is hardly worth a mention but the beach, the Bay of Stavros, is a bathing paradise for swimming. The fine sand slopes gently to the sea and the bay is protected here from strong waves by a small promontory. There is not a lot of shade… unless you hire an umbrella and beach chair. Lying on the beach there is always something different to focus on when viewing the mountains opposite.

This dog was having a great time at the beach

Remember to tag Lens-Artists and to link back to her original post.

Next week Elizabeth of Albatz Travel Adventures will lead us with PAIRS, and on the 27th July, PR of Flights of the Soul will present BALCONIES.

Keep on smiling.

Posted for Leanne’s Lens-Artists Challenge

Whispers of Yesteryears

“Whispers of Yesteryears: A Stroll Down Memory Lane”

In the heart of the old town in Chania, where time weaves its tapestry, lies a hidden gem – an enchanting alleyway that beckons the curious traveler. As the sun dips low, casting a warm golden hue upon stones worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, the air becomes charged with nostalgia.

Tiled lane in Crete Old Town

Step into this timeless scene, where modernity dances with antiquity. The narrow alleyway, flanked by centuries-old walls, exudes a quiet magic. Each stone, each weathered brick, holds secrets – tales of love, loss, and resilience.

The sun-kissed walls wear a coat of faded ochre, their surfaces adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and cascading ivy. Quaint shops line the way, their wooden shutters half-open, revealing glimpses of treasures within. An artisan’s workshop spills out onto the path – woven baskets, hand-stitched leather bags, and delicate pottery. The craftsmanship speaks of generations past, a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity.

For CWWC

Galerie Door

I an still in old town Chania, in Crete. This wood door with only varnish on it caught my attention.

I liked how it looked, I really have no other reason for the shot, nor do I have a narrative to add to it. I thought it would make a nice shot. That’s all. That is why I have no many edits o it…

open door to art gallery

In Monochrome

in monochrome
Come a little bit closer

It is Thursday and my entry entry to , Thursday Doors! 

Red Door

I saw this red door at the end of the ally in old town Chania, in Crete. I looked inviting and the colorful walls enhanced it with the turquoise shutters adding interest in the composition of the photo . The stone walls added warmth to the area. What’s not to like so I took few shots.

Then I thought about the meaning of a red door, it can vary depending on cultural, historical, and personal interpretations. In many cultures, a red front door symbolizes a warm welcome and hospitality. It is believed to invite positive energy and good luck into a home. Also red is often associated with strength and protection. Some believe that a red door can ward off evil spirits and bring a sense of security.

Red door in Chania, Crete

Approaching the doorway at the end of the the street

Red door
the red door beckons to approach

It is Thursday and my entry entry to , Thursday Doors! 

Green Door

While in Crete I took few photos of doors, and this green door and it’s surrounding really intrigued me. I am not so sure that I would be so taken by it if I lived there, it needs a bit of love and care, but from a photographers point of view, I really appreciate it.

Green door

It is Thursday, and this my second entry to , Thursday Doors

Edited with a more punch ☺

Brown door

While in Crete I took few photos of doors, and this brown door at the end of an alley was one of them.

Brown door in Crete
Closer look

Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors

Traveling Crete #10

Some atmosphere photos from Chania old town lanes and the harbor area from an other perspective

Traveling Crete #9

Some atmosphere photos from Chania and buildings at the Venetian harbor. The first set I took with my mobile and the other with my camera where I was able to adjust the settings and zoom better and was able to get more moody shots.

Traveling Crete #8

This post is all about the first sunset we saw in Chania at the Venetian harbour, it was so lovely that we later in the week came back for an other one. Well we came for dinner too and shopping, walking in the small alleys in old town. The first set I took with my mobile and the other with my camera where I was able to adjust the settings and zoom better and was able to get more moody shots.

Crete sunset a Venetian harbour.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Traveling Crete #7

Our first visit to Chania it is a breathtaking city on the north-west coast of the island of Crete. The city is historically significant In the town of Chania, ancient Greek, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman buildings coexist in the landscape of the city. We visited the Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church, on our way to the Venetian Harbour, “It is worth walking and watching, and at sunset you can get some really nice shot. Those I will share in the next post.

Traveling Crete #6

Papadiana is a lovely small village located 60 km south of Chania and close to the village of Sougia. With few inhabitants (population 14 as I found out as I googled the area) that deal mostly with agriculture, Papadiana has traditional architecture with stone houses and narrow streets.

It is surrounded by lush greenery and wild mountainsides. Most vegetation comprises of olive groves that give pure virgin oil, for which Crete is famous.

We drove through this small village and noticed a sign on the side of the road, Old mill, we took the turn and found this idyllic place at the end of this gravel road. When we saw the mill it it had a 1860 A.C. sign on it.,

flowing stream

Tree roots

Traveling Crete #5

Although Crete isn’t the homeland of oranges and lemons, citrus fruits play a huge role in the Cretan diet. If I saw many olive trees I did see some orange and lemon trees as well. Ancient Greeks used to believe that the Earth goddess, Gaia, gave citrus fruits as a gift to Zeus and Hera on their wedding.

The special microclimate in the area of Chania, as well as the abundant water available from the Cretan White Mountains, contribute to the growth of juicy oranges. I heard said that…

an Orange

“In fact, these oranges are among the most delicious in the world.”

Orange trees
Fresh oranges

Orange and Olive tree
Trees in Crete