I wanted to share something rustic with shadows for Becky’s November Shadows and Dan’s Doors. I chose this beautiful scene of an open brown door that leads into a rustic building. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and a winding pathway that really invites you in. The door, with its weathered wooden frame, feels so warm as color brown suggests.
An inviting doorway with the rustic charm of traditional architecture, with a glimpse of a well-maintained outdoor space. Please be kind and wipe your feet on the rag rugs before entering 😀
The trees and branches around it, when the sunlight filters through the leaves, cast lovely shadows on the ground, giving it a nice atmosphere. It really beckons you to step through the threshold into the building.
An inviting open door leading into a rustic building. Would you like to step in?
A pathway leading to a rustic wooden door framed by lush greenery.
An inviting entrance to a rustic cabin, framed by lush greenery.
She wrote:There are many possibilities hidden in Dreamy – maybe you are given to or indulging in daydreaming? You might even want to illustrate one of your own dreams? Now we are looking forward to Your interpretation of the theme Dreamy!
An abstract artwork capturing the vibrant hues of autumn and winter, reflecting nature’s stunning palette in a dreamy composition.
I do have to include at least one of my artwork, hope you like it! I have used tones suitable for the season and the ones used in this post, incorporating rich hues that reflect the vibrant energy of autumn and the gentle warmth of winter. My goal was to create a piece that resonates with the changing atmosphere, drawing inspiration from nature’s stunning palette. I truly believe that art has the power to connect us to the world around us and to evoke feelings that words often cannot express.
An autumn moment for dog walker in a misty landscape and vibrant fall foliage.
I envision these images encapsulating a tapestry of enchanting autumn scenes, where dew-kissed spider webs glisten in the soft embrace of morning light, serene reflections dance upon a still lake, and misty vistas are adorned with golden hay bales—a true homage to this magical season. It invites us to bask in the tranquil beauty of an autumn landscape, where the vibrant hues of falling leaves gently blanket the earth. As the renowned poet John Keats once said, “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” In this spirit, I felt compelled to share these evocative images of the season, hoping you can lose yourselves in the quiet allure of nature’s transformation into winter, cherishing the ephemeral beauty that graces our surroundings.
A dreamy spider web adorned with morning dew, capturing the essence of nature’s delicate beauty.A reflection of lush greenery on calm waters, embodying the dreamy essence of nature.Misty landscape with hay bales in a green field, creating a dreamy atmosphere.A close-up view of a moss-covered stump in a softly blurred forest setting, portraying the essence of nature’s tranquility.A dreamy landscape featuring blurred reflections of trees and water, evoking a serene and mystical atmosphere.An autumn landscape featuring golden foliage, a still lake, and a small boat, a view to nature’s beauty during the fall season.
I’ve taken pleasure in crafting my response this week and hope you find joy in it as well. Be sure to check out Ann-Christine’s stunning original post here for a deeper insight into her challenge, and don’t forget to link back to it in your reply. Remember to add the Lens-Artists Tag so your contribution shows up in our reader section.
Thanks to John and all who took part in last week’s Autumn reflection, the images were so colorful. Here in the northern region, we are witnessing the tail end of the season, which carries a sense of melancholy as strong winds send leaves tumbling down, painting a beautiful yet somber scene. Many trees stand bare, resembling elegant silhouettes against the dwindling light, reminding us of life’s cycles and the inevitability of change. I encourage you to join us next week as Sofia once again leads us through her breathtaking Photographias blog. In the meantime, let’s appreciate the beauty around us as we move into the coming months, and remember to keep smiling; it might just brighten someone else’s day.
Interested in joining our challenge? click here for more information.
Autumn whispers softly by the lake,
Golden yellows merge with vibrant green,
Reeds, like brushstrokes, dance in the breeze,
Against the azure calm, a tranquil scene.
A serene autumn lake scene with vibrant foliage reflecting on the calm water.Tranquil autumn day by the lake, with golden reeds and vibrant foliage reflecting on the calm water.An autumn lakeside with vibrant yellows and greens contrasting against the blue sky.
Sunflowers are a vibrant symbol of positivity and warmth, their golden petals radiating joy and bringing light to everyone to see. They turn their heads to follow the sun, reminding us to seek the brighter side of life. As Vincent van Gogh once said, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you.”
A close-up of a sunflower bud showcasing its golden petals and vibrant greenery.A sunflower bud, its vibrant yellow petals and green leaves, symbolizing positivity and warmth.A close-up of a vibrant sunflower with a butterfly resting on its petals
Sharing soothing images in line with my week’s theme – Quiet Moments. These visuals capture the tranquility and serenity that come from the simplest things in life, calm waters to serene landscapes that inspire peace, a feeling of stillness and relaxation. As we navigate through our busy lives, take time to pause, appreciate these quiet moments, and find comfort in the beauty that surrounds us.
Emerging green shoots reflect in tranquil waterYellow water lilies bloom amidst green lily pads on a serene blue lake.Serene view of water lilies floating on a tranquil lake, framed by black alder
Straight from the camera – Moon from last night, I learned how to get a moon shot that truly captures its ethereal beauty. During my attempts, I discovered techniques that allowed me to showcase the moon’s craters and surface details in a striking way. However, in the shots where you could see some of the atmosphere with the misty field below, I had some trouble with lighting, which made it challenging to strike the right balance between the brightness of the moon and the subtle shadows in the landscape. Despite these challenges, every photo is a new learning experience – straight from my editing table, I carefully adjusted contrasts and color balances to enhance the final images, hopefully resulting in a collection that reflects my best attempts with my new camera.
What do you think? Do you have a preference.
A close-up view of a glowing full moon against a dark sky.A captivating silhouette of branches against the glowing moon, showcasing the ethereal beauty of nature at night.A mesmerizing moonlit night, showcasing the moon’s ethereal beauty against a misty landscape.
Clouds. They always fascinate me, I am drawn to the intense and brooding skies that often envelop the horizon combined with the sea, I really love it. The way they shift and change, forming intricate patterns, creates an ever-evolving canvas that captivates my imagination, sparking a sense of wonder about the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to these formations, illuminating the rich colors and textures that define them. The mood that they give to a photograph can transform a simple scene into something dramatic and powerful, evoking emotions that resonate deeply within me .
I can almost feel the breeze, a touch of autumn in these photos. These are from Hailuoto, Oulu.
Hailuoto beach scene A coastal landscape featuring tall grasses against a backdrop of brooding clouds.A coastal landscape featuring sandy paths, lush grass, and a dramatic sky with shifting clouds.A stormy shoreline with dark clouds looming over a choppy sea, interspersed with rocks and patches of grass.Brooding clouds loom over a choppy sea. a dramatic and moody landscape.A walk along a rocky jetty, surrounded by a dramatic sea under an overcast sky.
This week I have thought about my learning curve, and one of the most interesting aspects is monochrome adjustments. I have come a long way from the first attempts .
At the canal
I posted these in color in a previous post few days ago. This how they look in monochrome.
I posted this originally 2013 and as I was looking for photos to show of what I have learned in photography and blogging I found out tons. This was post was so bad that had to redo it altogether. I have not edited the photos. But the post had only one view… that says all what can be said about learning curve.
Capilano Suspension Bridge takes you to the serenity of a West Coast rainforest, where lush greenery envelops you and the sounds of nature can be heard all around. As you walk across this iconic bridge, suspended high above the emerald waters below, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of towering trees and the rich biodiversity of the area. The bridge stretches 137 meters (450 feet) across the Capilano River and is one of the longest and highest suspension bridges in the world, offering an exhilarating experience for visitors.The experience is not only about the bridge itself; the surrounding park is home to various walking trails, treetop adventures, and informative exhibits that celebrate the local ecology and history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The experience is not only about the bridge itself; the surrounding park is home to various walking trails, treetop adventures, and informative exhibits that celebrate the local ecology and history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
I was encouraged to stay in my hammock in the comments of my last post. So I did as recommended 😀 Now I can point out how hard work it is to pick blueberries 🫐… 😂
Hard at work. He picked about 5 liters from our own yard.
In the midst of the lush greenery, the vibrant red cap pops out, drawing the eye like a beacon against the backdrop of woods greens. This is a joint post for Six-Word Saturday 7.19.25 and #SimplyRed19 . Hopefully it is just enough red.
My grandson with a red cap enjoying blueberries in lush greenery and trees at Porkkala
When you feel the need for a spiritual renewal, adopt the captivating practice of going to bed early and waking with the sun. Picture the gentle embrace of morning light as it touches your skin, granting you a tranquil moment while the world stirs to life around you. This calm ‘connected’ sensation is akin to enchanting stardust that can brighten your whole day, regardless of how chaotic it may turn.
This week, we’re excited to have SH join us as our Guest Host and are reflecting on the importance of our cherished quiet moments.
I fondly recall summers spent at our summer house when my boys were young; those warm mornings were pure joy! I would sneak out before anyone else, relishing my little slice of paradise on the patio with a steaming cup of coffee. The birds would fill the air with their uplifting melodies, and the leaves would sway gently in the sweet breeze. It truly became a beautiful oasis of tranquility, where I could enjoy my thoughts, free from demands—just me and a blissful silence before my three preteen whirlwinds burst onto the scene, ready for adventure. Those precious quiet hours were my secret strength, and let me tell you, finding joy in the delightful chaos was essential. After all, if you can embrace a morning of refreshing solitude, you can conquer anything those boys decide to throw your way!”
A serene lakeside view with a wooden walkway leading to calm waters and lush greenery, perfect for quiet reflection.
Quiet hours, often represented through serene photographs, capture the essence of stillness and peace in various environments. An image of a tranquil sunset over a quiet neighborhood can evoke feelings of calm,
A serene moment by the water as dawn breaks, evoking tranquility and reflection.
A serene misty landscape showcases hay bales resting peacefully in a tranquil field, evoking a sense of calm and solitude at dawn.
In libraries, the focused expressions of individuals deeply immersed in their studies highlight the importance of silence for creative and intellectual pursuits.
A serene library space showcasing individuals engaged in quiet study, highlighting the importance of tranquility for academic pursuits.
So important to grasp the special moments in life. Sitting on the grass with my husband and listening to the Bag Pipes as they pronounce the ending of a great day was one that I plan to hold on to forever.
Churches can be depicted with sunlit rooms and soft shadows, conveying a sense of hope and recovery,
A serene moment of reflection in an empty church, embodying the tranquility of quiet hours.
While empty parks at dawn invite viewers to appreciate the beauty of solitude.
A peaceful park scene at dawn, showcasing a serene atmosphere under the canopy of trees with a bench nestled among the leaves.
illustrating empty street
A solitary figure braves a heavy downpour on a quiet, rain-soaked street, evoking a moment of stillness amidst the chaos of nature.
Each photograph can tell a story of tranquility, inviting onlookers to reflect on the significance of quiet hours in fostering community harmony and personal well-being.
To wrap up this week’s post, I want to extend my gratitude to SH for being our Guest Host and for introducing such a beautiful topic that will surely provide us all with moments of tranquility. Don’t forget to check out his original post here and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find your contributions. I appreciate Ann-Christine for her lovely post and everyone who participated in it.. Lastly, I hope you to join us next week as Egidio once again guides us through his Through Brazilian Eyes site. Until then keep on smiling.
By the way, it is vacation time for us! For the next four weeks, I am looking forward to spending my days in the hammock, savoring the warm summer days that have finally arrived in Finland. I can’t wait to soak up every moment of this blissful summer escape!
Unexpectedly, the two vibrant orange poppy blooms brightened my garden, their cheerful colors radiating joy against the lush greenery surrounding them. I was thrilled to see them, as they infused the flowerbed with a sense of happiness and vitality. It felt like nature had presented me with a wonderfully delightful surprise.
vibrant orange poppy flowers against a lush green background. orange poppy
A reflection of boats and masts on calm water, hopefully showcasing the beauty and artistry of reflections in photography.
Lens-Artists Challenge this week is hosted by Anne, and the theme is reflections, please visit her lovely post for inspiration and guidance. I for one often find myself searching for a beautiful reflection. I believe many of us photographers are. “Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like.”
Lake Kukkanen reflection in autumn colors and rustic cottages in Nastola Finland.
Shots below I took at Porkkalanniemi in Kirkkonummi, a stunning location known for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene landscapes. The area is surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Finland, which reflect the vibrant colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset. As I wandered along the rocky coastline, I was captivated by in this environment, this picturesque region.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a stunning nature preserve located in Delray Beach, Florida, celebrated for its rich diversity of wildlife and picturesque walking trails. Spanning over 50 acres, it boasts a charming boardwalk that invites visitors to explore the wetlands and delight in observing a variety of species, including playful alligators, curious turtles, and a vibrant array of birds, such as graceful herons and elegant egrets. The preserve not only serves as a vital habitat for wildlife but also offers excellent educational resources about the local ecosystem, making it a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers eager to connect with the beauty of the natural world. That is were the shots below have been taken, while searching for birds and reflections.
Reflections in photography frequently introduce an element of depth, curiosity, and artistic nuance to an image. They can signify duality, uncover concealed angles, or merely elevate the visual allure of a scene. Numerous photographers and viewers have noted the potency of reflections, employing expressions that convey their capacity to turn the mundane into something enchanting or intellectually stimulating.
A contemplative moment captured through reflective surfaces, showcasing the interplay of light and color.
A vibrant reflection of urban life captured in glass, showcasing the interplay of architecture in Helsinki.
Below you can see reflections from from different locations.
Thanks for last week’s challenge Beth and everyone who participated in last week’s challenge; it was a tumultuous end to the week with the stormy moments you all contributed. Lastly, we invite you to join us next week as Ann-Christine leads us with something new next Saturday, June 28 at noon Eastern Time . Until then, keep on smiling.
For information on how to join the Lens-Artists challenge please click here.
This weekend we are celebrating midsummer, it is one of the main celebration of the year here in Nordic countries. The nightless night.
Midsummer rose
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.
Join us in welcoming Beth as she takes the lead on her first challenge with the Lens-Artists team! Let’s show her our support! Her chosen topic stormy – is bound to give us beautiful and impressive images.
A stormy sky with dark clouds and rays of sunlight breaking through, illuminating the turquoise sea below.
I live in an area of the world where we do not have any big weather events; there are no hurricanes or earthquakes to disrupt our peace. Our storms, compared to those experienced in many other places, are very mild and often quite gentle. Even our winter storms are mild relative to regions that face extreme and heavy snowfall. This rarity of severe weather is seen in my amount of stormy images and I capture stormy sky I will have fun with it – that is take many shots of it as it does not happen often. My photographs for this challenge predominantly capture stunning, impressive cloudy skies. I have never been able to capture a lightning for example – not skilled enough nor have the patience to wait for the moment in the rain.
Visiting our son in Oulu last year, we took the opportunity to explore the beautiful Narrikari Beach, a spot known for its stunning views and calm atmosphere. As we walked along the sandy shore, we couldn’t help but notice the storm brewing in the distance over the Baltic Sea, the ominous clouds rolling in like a thick blanket. The sky was so impassive, dominated by dark hues that hinted at the impending tempest, creating a dramatic contrast with the beach’s tranquil setting. We stood there, feeling the cool breeze on our faces, captivated by the natural beauty and the raw energy of the approaching storm, which made that day unforgettable.
Dark skies in Key West often signal the approach of a tropical storm, casting an eerie yet captivating shadow over the vibrant landscape. This dramatic backdrop accentuates the brilliant colors of the sea. The scent of saltwater combines with the rain, creating a refreshing aroma that fills the atmosphere, while the distant rumble of thunder adds to the symphony of nature’s awe-inspiring spectacle.
A coastal scene showcasing a stormy sky with beams of sunlight piercing through the clouds, as two figures stroll along the beach in Nice, France. The color of the water against the dark clouds, I just loved watching the changing sky.
Monaco was graced by fierce, moving clouds that, in a magnificent display, chose to twirl gracefully around us. Their presence made the sky into a striking canvas, creating a dramatic backdrop for these images!
Winter, snowing – heavily – maybe even a blizzard is something that does occur in winter.
A dramatic view of a rain-soaked road, with dark storm clouds overhead and lights blurred through the wet windshield.
Thanks for this week’s challenge Beth from Wandering dawgs. Don’t forget to check out and participate in her challenge here. A special thanks goes to Sofia and everyone who participated in last week’s Mellow challenge; it was a joy to end the week with the serene moments you all contributed. Lastly, we invite you to join us next week as Anne takes the lead again on her Slow Shutter Speed site. Until then, keep on smiling.
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.
Sofia’s challenge this week is mellowness: a sense of softness, in tones or shapes, the slowness of a summer holiday, where time seems to drift gently by, allowing for moments of stillness and reflection. This kind of relaxation invites everyone to pause and appreciate the beauty of simplicity in our surroundings. The challenge is to convey the sense of relaxation through various artistic expressions, utilizing subdued warm tones that remind one of the golden hour, soft shapes reminiscent of gently swaying trees, and a deliberate focus on creating an inviting atmosphere. This overall aesthetic should evoke a mellow mood of calmness and cosiness, encouraging an experience that soothes the mind and spirit, leaving one feeling at peace and deeply connected to the essence of tranquility that life has to offer. That is my take from her post and these are my photos to show it.
The first set evokes a sense of mellow, relaxed serenity. Lazy and mellow summer days when you can just relax. Finnish summer unfolds with fresh, bright greens that lovingly embrace the landscape, weaving a beautiful tapestry of nature. As the season draws to a close, especially towards the end of summer, a soothing mellowness envelops us, gently contrasting the vibrant days that have passed. This tender ambiance is felt not only in the softening light of the season but also on those peaceful days when the sun paints gentle hues across the sky, easing the brilliance of colors. In these precious moments, we can truly savor the transition as nature subtly shifts into softer shades, wrapping us in a comforting sense of tranquility and calmness that beautifully defines the essence of late summer in Finland.
A serene landscape with grazing animals in a tranquil setting, embodying the essence of mellow summer days.
Second set are flowers, the lovely beauties of summer, that brighten our days and gently coax us into taking our cameras out to capture their stunning beauty and intricate details. These vibrant blooms sway softly in the warm breeze, bringing a sense of joy and vitality to gardens, parks, and meadows. As each petal glistens in the sunlight, they create an enchanting atmosphere that draws us near, inviting us to pause and reflect on nature’s artistry. Their delightful fragrances fill the air, that truly encapsulate the essence of summertime.
Hazy, warm light nights – summer nights are a wonder every year, as the brightness of Nordic summers paints the sky in hues of soft pastels and vibrant colors that enchant all who experience them. For those who know this magic from past summers, there’s a sense of nostalgia as familiar scents of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass fill the air, evoking cherished memories. And for those who witness this beauty for the first time, the spectacle is awe-inspiring, as they find themselves wrapped in the warmth of endless twilight. Each year, you always submerge yourself in its wonder, surrendering to the charm of late-night strolls, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. Magical. All Photos 👇 are taken between 10PM to midnight.
Thank you to all who enthusiastically participated in my Books challenge; it was an absolute joy to witness the profound appreciation we collectively have for the written word and the essential role it plays in shaping our lives. Books are not just mere collections of pages; they are gateways that transport us to distant realms, enriching our minds with unparalleled knowledge and stirring our souls with unforgettable stories. Seeing the stunning libraries from every corner of the globe was nothing short of breathtaking—each one a sanctum for avid readers, beautifully crafted and steeped in history, where the echoes of the past resonate through the ages. The creativity and enthusiasm you all poured into this challenge illuminated our shared passion for literature, reminding us how stories—both timeless classics and contemporary gems—continue to ignite our imaginations and inspire our hearts.
This week was a lovely dip into summer, not yet there weather wise, but the light nights are…Thanks Sofiafor this lovely topic. Please link your post to hersand use the lens-artists tag in the reader so your post can be found. Next week June 14th, Beth from Wandering Dawgs will host her first challenge so be sure to check her post next Saturday. I sure am looking forward to seeing what it’s like 🙂
You can find out more about the Lens-Artists Challenge here.
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.
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!
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.
A misty forest scene and the beauty of our wooded landscape. This shot I took from my backyardThe birch trees, the inviting essence of a Finnish forest. The tall, slender trunks of spruce trees amid lush undergrowth amd fallen branches The natural beauty of the forest in KirkkonummiA black and white view of a forest path surrounded by tall trees, showcasing the beauty of woods
I am continuing my houses and doors and windows for Dans Thursday Doors. Looking back I am sad that we only had time to stay for two days.
I don’t know the name of this house, but I like how it’s framed by the tree.The historic mansion constructed in 1873, once the center of Savannah’s elite social life and depicted in ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.’ the Hamilton-Turner house
Constructed in 1873 by notable local entrepreneur and alderman Samuel Pugh Hamilton, who was referred to as “The Lord of Lafayette Square,” this private mansion emerged as a centerpiece for Savannah’s social activities, its magnificent architecture and interiors adding a sense of opulence to the numerous gatherings of the elite. When it became the first residence in Savannah to harness electricity, residents flocked to witness the enchanting glow of electric light shining through its windows. Over a century later, John Berendt’s book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” highlighted the lively parties hosted by Joe Odom, who once oversaw the estate. Years afterward, the Inn made a memorable appearance in the film adaptation of the same title directed by Clint Eastwood, featuring stars Kevin Spacey and John Cusack.
An example of the ornate ironwork found in Savannah.No name, but nice shutters and door and a blurry ironworks
Kids enjoying the outdoors while aiming at a dartboard mounted on a large, sturdy tree. No rules need to be obeyed with these enthusiastic participants; they take turns throwing darts, cheering each other on, and celebrating their near-hits and misses alike.
On the way to the Great Ocean Road, we had one more motel to stay the night, in Mount Gambier. Mount Gambier is famous for its Blue Lake, caves and sinkholes. Blue Lake was unbelievably blue. But we were lucky because it’s blue only from November to March. The rest of the year its water looks like in any other lake. However, Blue Lake was formed by meteorite, and it is deep as well.
It is really blue, a stunning shade that captivates the eyes and draws you in. I took way too many photos to prove it, capturing the depth and vibrancy of the color from various angles and perspectives, ensuring I could hold onto this mesmerizing view long after I leave.
Later we went to the Umpherston Sinkhole, which had an English garden in the 1900’s and even a small pond inside of it. The pond went dry and when Mr. Umpherston passed away nobody took care of the garden. Luckily the sinkhole has been renovated and is a lush green spot in the area worth the visit. Only thing that spoiled the visit was the wood mill next to it. The exhaust fumes from the mill were really bothering me down in the sinkhole. Hopefully, it was wind direction and it’s not like that every day.
From sinkhole we drove to Little Blue Lake 15 kilometers away from Mount Gambier. To me the water looked more green than blue, but it was a fun place to visit and see the locals swim and dive from the cliffs. I was afraid even to look at the approximately 10-year-olds diving. I would never jump myself.
Dinner was at Casa de Tequila. Maybe they had good tequila, but the food was disappointing. Where were the spices? Staff seemed all be Asian. Maybe none of them had ever tasted real Mexican food or they hadn’t studied the recipes too carefully in the kitchen?
What surprised us around Mount Gambier, was the amount of pine forests. They seemed to go on and on. Pine wood is not indigenous to Australia, so they had all been planted at some point. Planting pine wood is understandable because building material is needed, and I guess pine doesn’t take over the indigenous trees and plants? We come from the land of forests, but we were still amazed by the size of the forests. Also, we get a fit every time we see an area with clearcutting in Finland. They are ugly. I’ve never seen clearcutting like this before. Once again, the size of it. But you have the landmass here, I guess? By the way Fleurieu Peninsula had large pine forests as well.
In morning we didn’t see any nice places for breakfast, so we hit the road. We didn’t see any cafes or restaurants on the way but around noon we couldn’t take it anymore and had to take a break in Port Fairy. Town was packed. We found out there was running event going on from short distances to kids to all the way to marathon. We were able to find an empty table. Food was disappointing once again. How can you ruin hamburger and fries, even if it was busy.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 