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.
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!”
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,
In libraries, the focused expressions of individuals deeply immersed in their studies highlight the importance of silence for creative and intellectual pursuits.
Churches can be depicted with sunlit rooms and soft shadows, conveying a sense of hope and recovery,
While empty parks at dawn invite viewers to appreciate the beauty of solitude.
illustrating empty street
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.
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.”
“Water’s mirror., “Reflection perfection., “Stillness captured., “Nature’s looking glass., and “Water’s silent poetry.
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.
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.
Happy midsummer to you all with this
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.
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.
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.
Interested in joining our challenge? Click here .
Johns Cellpic Sunday
This little guy was enjoying the patio swing and a sleepover with us. A day with a baby and I am so tired now, it will take days to recover 😂 as I hardly slept because I was anticipating if he would wake up.
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.
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 Sofia for this lovely topic. Please link your post to hers and 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.
Until then keep on smiling ☺ it’s free therapy.
This is the prime time for dandelions in my neck of the woods. The glorious yellow fields of this pest of a flower look lovely, stretching out like a bright carpet across the landscape, creating a vivid contrast against the greens of the grass and the browns of the earth. This weed is lovely in its brightness, with its unapologetic splendor. I took these yesterday, reveling in the beauty of the fields and the soft, fluffy clouds drifting lazily above, where the sun peeked through to illuminate the landscape. However, towards the end of the day, the clouds turned dark, gathering together ominously and giving us a pour of rain that was both refreshing and needed. The scent of the air after the rain was so fresh and lovely, invigorating my senses.
The seeds, delicate and fluffy, are a great macro photography subject, exploding into the air with just a gentle breath, scattering like tiny parachutes on the wind.
My old neighbor, by old I mean she used to be my neighbor and well she was on the older side; I was in my late forties and she in her late eighties, told me she used to make wine out of dandelions, a unique blend that captivated and surprised many. She said she would give me the recipe, but I never did actually get it, although it came up many times during our conversations, often reminiscing about the joy ipicking the dandelions. She was a lovely lady, always positive, her laughter , and her stories rich with wisdom about foraging, gardening, and the simple pleasures found in nature.
Dandelions can be made into wine, offering a refreshing and unique beverage. This traditional recipe is perfect for beginners looking to try something new for spring or summer meals. While many see dandelions as weeds, wine enthusiasts view them as ingredients. Dandelion wine is gaining popularity among DIY winemakers, featuring a light and citrusy flavor.
I googled this recipe
Dandelion Wine
Yields approx. 4 liters
Ingredients:
• 3 liters of dandelion petals (only the yellow parts)
• 4 liters of water
• 1.5–2 kg of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 organic lemons (juice + zest)
• 1 orange (optional – for rounder flavor)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1 packet wine yeast
• Optional: 1 tsp yeast nutrient
Instructions:
You cannot escape forests here – they are all around us, enveloping every corner of the landscape. Approximately 75 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest, creating a lush, green tapestry that supports an array of wildlife and offers countless opportunities for exploration.
I have had a forest right at my doorstep most of my life, from playing in the forest as a kid to taking walks in it as an adult, allowing me to witness the changing seasons, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the serene blanket of snow during winter, each moment reinforcing the connection I feel with nature. The soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a constant reminder of the peace that these natural havens can bring.
Posted for For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
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.
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.
Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday
For Debbie’s Six Words Saturday.
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.
text credit Mara Sillanmäki
This is a good one as not that many words are needed, my contribution to Judes Bench Challenge
This week, John is guiding us through the My Go-To Places challenge, and I believe many of you can easily guess my answer. I’ve mentioned it on numerous occasions before: they are simply my home and my summer house. These serene spots allow me to just be myself.
This path takes me to a serene location surrounded by nature. Just this past Easter, I visited there. The scenery was not yet vibrant with greenery; instead, it appeared more brown and dreary. However, the melody of the birds chirping was beautifully powerful and soothing.
Summer green, a hue renowned for its calming properties, envelops me in a serene embrace here. As I sit n oone of my favorite places, I observe the gentle wind dancing through the leaves, accompanied by the vast expanse of blue skies overhead. The melodious sounds of nature create a symphony around me, wrapping me in tranquility—there are no problems to solve, only the bliss of the moment to savor.
With the arrival of early autumn, the enchanting mist that blankets the mornings and evenings creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, while the skies transform into a stunning palette of colors. It’s an absolute delight to seize the opportunity and take your camera along for an outing, ensuring that these beautiful moments are captured forever.
Lakeside, where the gentle sound of water caresses the shore and the vibrant yellows of autumn paint the landscape, offers a serene escape into nature. It’s here that I find my sanctuary, a place to reset and rejuvenate. My summer house is my primary retreat, where I spend most of my time during the pleasant seasons that invite outdoor activities. While winter holds its own beauty, I prefer to stay indoors, as the cold air isn’t my favorite companion. As the saying goes, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished,” reminding me to embrace the tranquility that surrounds me.
I sat in my living room beside my grandson, having just snapped a few photos of him. With my mobile in hand, I captured the very spot on my sofa where I’ve spent countless calm and peaceful moments, gazing out at the changing seasons through the window. I’ve watched deer, hares, and foxes stroll by, and even glimpsed a moose once, while birds soared and squirrels scampered along the fence. This corner of my home is truly one of my favorite places, reminding me that “home is not a place, but a feeling.”
Thank you, John, for this challenge. It reminded me once again to be grateful for what I have. Please link them to his original post here and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find you. Thanks also to Anne for last week’s “abandoned” challenge and to everyone who responded. I’m not sure why we are drawn to such things, but as long as they are around, we’ll keep capturing them.
I often dedicate countless hours to editing photos from the numerous places we’ve traveled to over the years. While I may not physically venture out, I immerse myself in the editing process, often losing track of time in front of my computer screen as I reminisce about those experiences. Which also is calming.
Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Sofia leads us once again on her beautiful Photographias site. Until then keep on smiling☺It might be someone’s highlight of the day.
My contribution to One Word Sunday: Landscape
The drive through Fleurieu Peninsula revealed several picturesque lookouts that left us in awe – I loved the rolling hills and their crests, whatever you wish to call them. The scenery was beautiful, with gentle slopes that seemed to dance across the landscape and trees with splashes of green. We tried to figure out what the difference is between the hills and the crests – perhaps it’s merely a matter of terminology – yet, all the same, they looked so lovely.
We actually drove past the HMAS Hobart Memorial Lookout few times and stopped twice, which provided differing moods between day and evening. The evening shots had so much more mood in them. It was worth the second stop.
A nearby lookout showcased stunning scenery. We saw remnants of broken china on the ground. It must have been the end of a beautiful relationship, maybe sweet parting words. At the bottom of plates, you could see beginnings or endings of words: you piece…, manip…, fuc …ng sh… But you get the idea.
Tucked away on South Australia’s rugged Limestone Coast, is the stunning Robe coastline. Tons of travelers have pulled up here and ended up totally enchanted by its charm, and the word got out, that is how we found it.
After arriving we took a quick drive around the area and went to find our sunset spot. It’s hard to miss the brightly painted, 12,2 meters tall Cape Dombey Obelisk. The path to the Obelisk was closed as it sits on an eroding promontory and is unsafe to access. Pounding waves on the rocks around the obelisk could lead to it collapsing into the sea at any time, but there was also a chance it could remain there for another 100 years. You can also see the Robe Lighthouse in some of the photos, we only saw it from the distance.
I hope I’m not wrong saying that that photos tell the story better than my words could. Click the images to enlarge them, I recommend it.
When leaving Fleurieu Peninsula it was time to visit McLaren Vale. We stopped at Tourist Info to get some tips which wineries to see.
They recommended three different types of places and luckily enough we took their advice. First stop, and the one we liked the most, was Coriole Vineyards. It was small and cozy and the scenery to the area was great. Coriole was getting ready for a wedding later during the day. Bridesmaids hanging signs and the restaurant setting tables and chairs. It was also the most photogenic place.
Second stop was to the most famous cellar door in the area, D’Arenberg. D’Arenberg is famous for its cube that you can see online every time you make a search for the area. You can see the building from far away and it really stands out. In a good way? I really can’t say. To me it doesn’t fit in. They hold wine tasting in the cube, but we passed. They also had Salvador Dali’s sculptures inside but the tree huge sculptures outside were enough for us. I was more interested in the old machinery that they had for display
We also went to the The Art Evolution Marquée. Currently exhibiting certified limited edition graphics and artworks by Picasso, Marc Chagall, Salvador Dali, Charles Billich and Toller Cranston, all of which are heavily collected internationally and shown in major exhibitions worldwide. We saw them , but we surprisingly ended up not buying anything
Third stop was Wirra Wirra Vineyards, where we had lunch also. The restaurant was trying too hard to be fine dining. My Slow and Low Brisket was okay, but Ritva’s Chicken Caesar Salad was just weird. A piece of chicken and a clump of salad on top of it. I was new in the menu and I’m sure they had had some feedback already because two people asked her, how was the salad. Nice place though and they had some funny tiles in the toilet. Oddly we didn’t take photos from this vineyard
From McLaren Vale we headed to Murray Bridge. For some reason I thought it was big and something to see. Granted, it is the first bridge across the magnificent Murray River and historic, but it was really nothing to see. Also, it was hard to find a good spot for photos. From Murray we drove towards city of Robe, where we were going to spend the next night. We drove through Coorung National Park, which seemed to last forever. We got to Robe before the sunset, and we saw the coastal limestone area and Robe Obelisk. Nice little town and a good place to rest.
The story is to continue in another post 🙂
Text credit Mara Sillanmäki
It was time to move on. Next two nights we would spend in Wirrana Cove in Fleurieu Peninsula. Once again, the traffic was not bad at all in Adelaide. I’m sure it can be bad, like in any big city, but we didn’t manage to find any traffic jams. We drove close by another famous wine region, McLaren Vale, but we decided to come back on our way out. The views in Flerieu were gorgeous, stunning, beautiful, magnificent, awesome, splendid, superb, amazing, astounding, astonishing, marvellous, impressive, wonderful. Pick any word you like… Rolling hills, costal areas, forest, you name it. It had it all.
We got to BreakFree Wirrina Cove Hotel before, but we were able to check-in instantly. Probably, because there was hardly anybody staying there. It was off-season but the hotel was in a bad way too. We can’t recommend it if they don’t renovate fast. No rest for the wicked, so after carrying the luggage to the room we headed towards Jervis Bay. Jervis Bay is port from where you catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island. We were forewarned that there is nothing to see in Jervis Bay besides the lighthouse, maybe. That proved to be true, but we stopped at every beach on the way; Wirrina Cove, Second Valley and Rapid Bay.
Jervis Bay, not much to see.
Especially Second Valley was beautiful, and we ended up going back there the next evening for the sunset. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time or money to go to Kangaroo Island. Instead, we headed to Victor Harbour. On the way we nearly hit a deer jumping across the road. Also, stopped at Delamere General Store for ice cream and Crunchies candy bars, that Ritva remembered from her childhood. Guess you had to be there, as the saying goes, because I don’t care for them, even though I like just about anything sweet.
Marina St Vincent was the first stop in Wirrina Bay – we thought about getting boat to see sights but it was not due to off season available the days we were there, nothing to see here except for few boats.
Rapid Bay is well known for its very long jetty. While the original jetty built in 1940 is closed to the public, a new jetty (opened in early 2009) is now available for use. The color of the water aah
We didn’t really get inspired by Victor Harbor, even though I went to check out the railway to Granite Island. Granite Island might have been interesting, but it was too far to walk and railway wasn’t running. However, we managed to do some shopping for clothes. I bought a fabulous Billabong bucket hat and Ritva bought few summer clothes. While I was waiting for Ritva, I managed to buy 6-pack of Coopers Pale Ale and some McLaren white wine from the bottle shop.
Victor Harbor really did not inspire us as we had hardly any photos from there.
Second Valley at day time
On the road again.
In the evening, we had drinks outside our room and the animals came out. First the magpies. One of them was eating from my hand. Then the kangaroos came. First couple and then a whole horde on them. Even though they were used to people they didn’t let you closer than 5-10 meters. I know the locals don’t care for them that much but for us tourists they are so cute. The rest of the evening was spent washing laundry. I pushed wrong buttons, and the dyer just wouldn’t stop for some reason, and I ended up spending a big portion of the evening in the laundry room.
The day will continue on another post as there are so many photos to share, but this was the last of sunset when we got back to the at the hotel.
Text credit Mara Sillanmäki
I played with this image of a gnarled tree on the hills in South Australia, capturing the rugged beauty and unique character of the landscape. The first photo is the edited original, which tell a story of resilience against the elements. Following this are three distinct color variations; one is a monochrome that emphasizes the stark contrasts and shadows, allowing the viewer to focus on the shape and form of the tree, while the others offer vibrant hues that breathe life into the scene, both highlighting different aspects of the surrounding environment. Or just having fun with artistic liberties 🙂
This is my contrubution for One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge: April 2025
Last stop was as mentioned before Henley Beach, where Ritva had lived as a small child. The duplex
was still there and that house was only about 200 meters from the ocean. The value of the property
might have gone up since the late 60’s when they lived there.
At the beach I heard techno music and I saw people dancing on the grass. I got closer and noticed
that most of the dancers weren’t young as I expected. They must have members of the original rave
era, them being in their fifties and sixties. There was a lady mixing and a MC hyping the crowd. It
sounded really good and I even sent some video clips to our son, who is a DJ. He liked them too.
Henley was much busier than Glenelg and a fun beach. For lunch we had fish fry for two that was
more like for four people. Couldn’t finish all that batter and grease. Too hungry to take photos of the food and also it was so hot as we could not find a spot in the shade and had no wish to inside the restaurant.
To be on a beach and not take sunset photos would be a crime. The beauty of nature unfolds before your eyes as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a breathtaking canvas that seems almost surreal. Time passed quickly while watching people and the ever changing colors of the sky, each moment providing a new angle of light and shadow, a new opportunity for capturing the perfect shot. A local had kindly told us on which side of the pier the sunset was better photographed, with less people in the way.
Text credit Mara Sillanmäki
First many thanks to Egidio for this challenge Lens-Artists #341 – It’s a Wild Life
I was totally lost at first with this theme, feeling like I had nothing wild or exciting in my photo archive to contribute. It was a bit disheartening to think that at first. However, after seeing several impressive posts from those who have already joined the community, I found that I actually do have some unique photos that capture wildlife that are meaningful to me.
Here are some animals that I have been able to capture with my camera over the years. Observing a koala in its natural habitat was truly a joy to see, as they seem to embody the essence of Australia with their gentle demeanor and tree-hugging ways. A penguin waddling through its natural habitat was something I never thought I would witness, as it brought a sense of whimsy and curiosity. Kangaroos, for us Australian visitors, are undoubtedly a treat, hopping gracefully across the landscape and reminding us of the unique wildlife Australia has to offer. Watching monkeys nurturing and feeding their young was heartwarming during my travels in Thailand, where their familial bonds were on vivid display. Encountering a giant grizzled squirrel in Sri Lanka was a new acquaintance, and seeing it scurrying through the lush greenery was also a memorable moment that stands out in my mind. Additionally, capturing a glimpse of an alligator in the Everglades of Florida with her baby was an experience I hadn’t anticipated, amplifying the thrill of wildlife encounters. Lastly, lizards, with their vibrant colors and quick movements, are always a delightful treat to observe, adding a splash of life to the environments I explore.
I found out I had seen more wild animals than I thought, and reflecting on those experiences brought a wave of nostalgia. I always tend to overshare, so I will stop here for now. Thanks, Egídio, for this challenge; it really had me thinking about the concept of ‘wild’ in more than one context. Even if I ended up remembering some of my encounters with the animals in their natural habitats, it made me appreciate the beauty and unpredictability of the wilderness. I could have chosen flowers, birds, or bugs, but instead, I focused on the captivating interactions I’ve had with these creatures, each unique and memorable in its own way.
Please remember to link to Egidio’s beautiful post and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you. I was happy to see that most all of us had a hard time choosing our images last week in Tina’s challenge! Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Ann-Christine leads us once again on her always-wonderful Leya post. Until then keep on smiling ☺
Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
Tuesday’s schedule was decided the night before because the weather forecast promised 43 degrees Celsius for Adelaide. It was going to be driving day for us. Staying and walking around city would be murder. First stop Mount Lofty’s Summit. You got a real nice view of the city from there, but getting really good photos was not that easy. This girl from Fidzi it was her first time traveling aboard, she was so excited to be there that she had her photo taken with a flag. I had to capture her joy. The color coordinated couple, no other reason than that.
From there you got a good overview of the city. Next stop historical German city of Hahndorf. Hahndorf was picturesque but it’s hard to get good pics because the parked cars ruin the view, ours included. We did manage to get a few.
Being off-season Hahndorf was quiet besides the lunch hour, when it was hard to find parking. And it was so damn hot that we didn’t walk around as much as we would have wanted. Instead we parked ourselves to a small café for strawberry smoothies and shared a piece of cake. As you can see from the photographs it was an old town with nice historic details all around. Antique stores were fun to go through.
Text credit Mara Sillanmäki
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 