Lens-Artists Challenge #314 – Shorelines

This is such a challenge – well no challenge at all. I have so many shorelines from this summer that I am having trouble deciding what to post. Do I limit to one days worth of photos or from several ??? My week has been a roller-coaster of emotions to birthdays and a funeral and work on top of it. I started this post a week ago, and here I am next Saturday, still working on it. I wanted to post some of my new photos from Hailuoto, but me being me, well I do need to edit them first, but with all the all the things happening this week, here I am. Anne, I did get it done, I love this theme.

I am going to share some photos from our lake cruise through the three lakes, between the cities of Lahti – Heinola in Finland. We have for several year thought about doing this, but never got around to doing, but this summer we did.

Here are some shorelines of these three lakes; Vesijärvi is a lake of 111 square kilometres (43 sq mi) near Lahti in southern Finland. The city of Lahti is connected to Päijänne through Lake Vesijärvi and Vääksy canal. Lake Päijänne is the second largest lake in Finland (1,080 km2 (266,874 acres)). The lake drains into the Gulf of Finland via the Kymi River. And through lake Päijänne you reach Lake Ruotsalainen which is medium-sized lake  in the Kymijoki main catchment area. it is located in Päijät-Häme, near the town Heinola.



 I also love the seaside as you might know. Last weekend I visited Hailuoto for the second time.

Just to give a little information; Hailuoto is an island in Northern Ostrobothnia. It is the third largest island in Finland, known for its beautiful nature, sandy beaches and bird watching opportunities.

A small, close-knit community of about 1,000 inhabitants lives on the island, and you can get there by ferry from Oulu. We drove there with my. son and two grandsons. The day was gray, windless. We were lucky no rain


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Lighthouse

The Marjaniemi lighthouse reaches majestically into the sky. Its pale brick walls reflect bright sunlight. When I touch a building, I feel its strong foundation. Historical stories whisper in my ears.

This lighthouse has been seen as a symbol of Hailuoto since the end of the 19th century. The design of Finland’s leading architect Axel Hampus Dahlström was built and finally put into use in 1872. Since then, it has been an unusual aid to shipping.

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“From the appearance of the lighthouse, you can immediately see where Dahlström has taken his impressions,” guide points out. ” Italian architecture has had a great influence.” I would have not known this immediately 🙂

The lighthouse happens to have a so-called “Italy window”, which has been used to send signals to the sea through colors. The fact that the colors are the same as the Italian flag is just a funny coincidence. The real Italian atmosphere is created by the architecture.

The colors of the lighthouse

On the west side of the island, the low tide revealed a fascinating landscape of rocks and vibrant green grass, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of a multi-hued sky. The ever-changing sky displayed an array of gray tones, each one offering a unique charm when observed from different directions. Despite the shifting shades, the beauty of the scenery remained constant, providing a moody landscape. As we appreciated the enchanting surroundings, our grandkids gleefully immersed themselves in the cool waters of the Baltic sea, huge enjoying themselves.


The harbour had only few boats there at this time.

On the eastern side of the island, the shore stretched out into a beautiful expanse of grassy knolls and swaying reeds, with fields extending as far as the eye could see. The gentle breeze carried the scent of earth and sea, creating a serene and nostalgic atmosphere. The old dock was only a pile of rocks, worn down by years of relentless waves and weather. Despite its dilapidated state, it still held a certain charm, a reminder of times long gone . Over time, nature had reclaimed much of the area, with wildflowers blooming between the cracks in the stone, and seagulls nesting in the crevices. It was a place where the past and present intertwined, each telling a story of the island’s rich history.


Leaving the island this was the last photo I took. The wind turbine dominated the scene.

wind turbine at Hailuoto

Last week, John’s Cool Colors inspired us! it was great to see your beautiful interpretations of this theme even if I did not comment on them. Thank you, John, for hosting such a beautiful challenge.

This week Anne has a lovely challenge, that has unfortunately has inspired beutiful posts, but due to lack of time I have just looked at them, but no comments. Sorry for that. But life happens…

What’s up later today? It is my turn to lead us, so please visit my blog later today, Saturday 7th September. Until then, take care and and keep on smiling! I will make sure I comment on all posts linked to my blog no matter what.

If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.

Red cottages

Hailuoto red cottages

I am a bit strapped for time, so here is one post for many challenges I want to participate in . I hope you don’t mind me combining them this week 😀

I visited Hailuoto in Oulu this weekend. The day was cloudy, but it didn’t dampen the mood, the place was still beautiful as I remember it being.


Window

For Monday Window.

For Debbie’s One Word Sunday.

For John’s Cellpic Sunday.

Flower of the day

Sitting in my backyard watching the sun light the flowers, such a lovely bright color against the blue sky and green leaves

Posted for Cee’s Flower of the Day

Monday window – frame the view

the windows frame the view beautifully. The gentle sway of the trees outside provides a soothing soundtrack, completing the tranquil ambiance that the windows so perfectly capture.

Monday Window: 26 August 2024

change of season can be sensed

You can sense the changing season in the air, as the days grow shorter and the nights longer. The warmth of the sun feels different somehow, as its angle changes in the sky and its rays become more gentle. The sun is lower, casting long, golden shadows that stretch across the landscape. The earth’s scent is changing too, as the fallen leaves begin to decompose and release a subtle, earthy fragrance. Can you feel it in the crisp breeze that carries the promise of autumn?

Debbies Six Word Saturday

Monochrome Madness – flowers

Posted for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness  flowers are beautiful, captivating in both their natural, colorful state and the elegant monochrome interpretations. As I have immersed myself in the process of searching for photos, I found myself drawn deeper into the intricate details and unique characteristics of various flowers. From vibrant roses to delicate lilies, each bloom tells a story of resilience and beauty. It’s truly fascinating how the monochrome concept brings forth a fresh perspective on these natural wonders, allowing us to appreciate their forms and textures in a new light. So, in keeping with this theme, I am continuing exploring and capturing the timeless allure of flowers through monochrome photography.



bluebell

Vibrant Summer Flowers Eyes

Hope you all a have a bright and joyful day.

Vibrant Summer Flowers, A Delight for the Eyes. The black-eyed Susan, captured for Cee’s Flower of the Day, exude a sense of joy and vibrancy. As we immerse ourselves in the warmth of the summer season, the array of colors and textures found in these blooms invites us to take a moment to appreciate the wonders of flowers.

Cellpic Sunday ~ stormy Weather

Johns Cellpic Sunday

Before thunderstorm on Saturday at the countryside. Love the contrast of the sky, and nature


lens-artists-challenge: 311-what’s in a garden

I’ve always enjoyed a walk in a garden, camera on hand. What’s in a garden ? a state of mind? I have noticed when I visit a garden I tend to focus on details instead of the whole view of the garden.

Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul. ~Luther Burbank

Now, the photos can speak for themselves – no words needed.

And in my garden I find this to be true: A good garden may have some weeds. ~Thomas Fuller

Vancouver island garden -The Butchart Gardens

Chinese friendship garden in Sydney

Rose gardens in Vancouver and Portland ,Seattle

Thank you, Ann-Christine, for hosting this challenge have a look at her wonderful site and join us. Remember to link back to her original post and to tag Lens-Artists so we can find you.

Last week Patti left us cross-eyed in a fantastic challenge of Zigzags. I loved how many ways we could look at this theme.

Next week is Sofia’s to host so I invite you to drop by her blog on Saturday 17th August and see what she is up to. Until then, keep on smiling.

If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.

Posted for Ann-Christine’s Lens-Artists Challenge

Lens-Artists Challenge #310: Zigzag

This week, the Lens-Artists team returns from our July break. A huge thank you to our three very talented guest hosts–Leanne Cole, Elizabeth Jensen and PR–who led the challenges in our absence and provided wonderfully inspiring and creative themes along with their beautiful photos.

This weeks challenge is hosted by P.A. Moed Creative Exploration in Words and Pictures, Patti. has created a challenge that has had me little bit desperate, do I have anything for this week.

ZIGZAG. I had to dive deep into my archives for this one, and came up with hardly nothing related to this topic. It seems that the photos I’m looking for is buried beneath layers of forgotten files. I’ve spent some time sifting through these archives, hoping to unearth some suitable one’s.

This road sign – destination as me in always in zigzag.

this road in Valley of Fire, Nevada has the markings of a zigzag.

What a relief, bridge frames 🙂 here to save me. First two from Australia, the other three from USA


A maze in Hua Hin in Thailand, not a great photo, but it is a zigzag.


Be sure your post includes the “Lens-Artists” tag and a link to Patti’s challenge post.

Next week, Ann-Christine will take the lead for LAC #311, so be sure to visit Leya next Saturday at noon EDT. You can be sure to find inspiration photos there.. Until then, keep smiling.

Interested in joining the Lens-Artists challenges? Click here for more information…..

Oh, nature sometimes provides surprises.

Lakeshores at Vesijärvi, Lahti The sky and water created lovely patterns resembling zigzag.

Framed

Framed view from a Cafe in Mankala, Iitti. The Brita cake alone made the drive there worth it. So delicious. The picturesque surroundings, the warm, inviting atmosphere of the cafe enhanced the visit, making it a delightful escape.

For Debbie’s One Word Sunday.

For John’s Cellpic Sunday. I took these with a mobile phone




Brita cake

Recipe ingredients
12 servings
The bottom of Brita cake
125 g margarine or butter (80% fat)
1 DL sugar
3 yolk
1 ½ dl wheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 DL low-fat milk
On top of Britankaku
3 of egg protein
1 ½ dl sugar
Brita cake filling
3 dl whipped cream
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp vanilla sugar
200 g raspberries
To decorate Britankaku
3 dl raspberries and blueberries
½ dl lemon balm or mint leaves


Brita cake – instructions:
Beat the fat and sugar. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time.
Combine wheat flour and baking powder. Mix them into the dough alternately with the milk.
Grease the baking paper. Spread the dough over it in a sheet the size of a baking pan.
Wash and dry the beaters. Whip the egg whites until stiff and gradually beat in the sugar. When the mixture is stiff and shiny, spread it over the base dough. (If you want, add almond flakes on top.)
Bake the brita cake in the oven at 175 degrees for 20-30 minutes until the meringue is beautifully light brown. Let it cool.
Whip the cream until foamy and season with sugar and vanilla sugar.
Halve the cooled cake plate. Place the other half on a serving platter. Spread the whipped cream and raspberries on top. Place the second cake plate on top.
Decorate the brita cake with raspberries and blueberries and lemon balm or mint leaves.
Tips!
Britakaku combines a thick cake base and a light meringue. The crunchy base tastes suitably almondy and toasted. Part of the cake’s charm is its carefree appearance. Spread the meringue dough with a clean spatula. If fatty cake batter is mixed with the meringue batter, the foam may settle.
A traditional brita is usually made on a baking sheet, cut into two parts and filled with whipped cream and fresh raspberries, strawberries or other summer berries. If you use frozen raspberries, choose Finnish ones and use them plump. Thawed frozen raspberries color the filling and crumble.
Vary the brita cake filling according to your taste. As an addition to the whipped cream, you can use cream cheese or curd, you can replace the raspberries with other berries or fruits. You can put, for example, cherries, lingonberries, strawberries or rhubarb between Britakaku. Also try the wonderful apple brita, chocolate brita and charming Christmas brita!
You can bake the bottom of Britakaku the day before, but you should only fill the cake right before serving. This keeps the meringue crispy.

Tranquil Waters, Rocks, Reflections,

Photos taken at Pulkkilanharju by the lake Päijänne.

Pulkkilanharju, which serves as the southeast gateway to the National park, is a truly captivating natural wonder that beckons visitors with its stunning vistas. The highest point on the island offers panoramic views over Lake Päijänne’s largest expanse, Tehinselkä, creating a mesmerizing sight that never fails to leave a lasting impression on all who behold it.

As for Lake Päijänne itself, it is truly a marvel of nature. Spanning an area of approximately 23,204 hectares, or 232 square kilometers, this vast expanse is dotted with around 2,690 picturesque islands, each adding to the lake’s allure. The remarkable expanse of Päijänne forms part of the Kymijoki watershed and ranks as Finland’s deepest lake, with an astounding maximum depth of 95 meters. Furthermore, the lake boasts an extensive coastline that stretches for 2,200 kilometers, showcasing the stunning natural beauty and providing ample opportunities for exploration and recreation.

Päijänne’s status as the second largest lake in Finland only adds to its significance, drawing in locals and tourists alike to marvel at the awe-inspiring splendor of this natural gem. Whether it’s the tranquil shores, the diverse flora and fauna, or the potential for water-based activities, Lake Päijänne stands as a testament to the incomparable beauty of the Finnish landscape.


For Debbie’s Six Words Saturday. So many more words this week.

Lens-Artist challenge #309: Balconies

So today’s topic is balconies. PR has presented us with this topic and has provided lovely shots to be inspired by. I have a few balcony shots myself, although I’m sure I’ve posted them before. My focus is mainly on nature photography, so I have fewer shots from cities. However, I must admit that balconies make for a nice photography topic. There’s something charming and delightful about capturing the unique character of different balconies, each telling its own story. Whether it’s the intricate designs of wrought-iron railings, the colorful array of potted plants, or the cozy nooks for outdoor seating, balconies offer a myriad of photo opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow on a balcony can create captivating compositions, while the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces adds depth and interest to the photographs. Overall, exploring the world of balconies through photography provides an exciting visual journey, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and diversity of these architectural features.

This above shot is from Amalfi. The gallery below is balconies from Savannah (click to enlarge)



Charleston balconies


Above we are back in Italy and the below shot is from Nice.


Lens-Artist challenge #309: Balconies

I reallythought I wouldn’t be able to find that many balconies, I,m happy to have found some interesting and colorful balconies . Please go discover your set of balconies and be sure to link them to PR’s post and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you. Thanks also to Elizabeth for last week’s Pairs challenge. It was great seeing the many variations of the theme and creative approaches to her subject.

Next week we return to our normal schedule with Patti leading the challenge on her Pilotfish post. We hope you’ll join us then. Until then, keep on smiling.

Looking for more information on joining our challenge? Click here.

Monochrome Madness #13 – Trees

This week  is a “themed” Monochrome Madness  week, and Sarah at Travel With Me is hosting with the theme “Trees”.

Trees yes, here are some trees for you that have caught my attention. The first and the last one is from few nights ago…trees are a great choice for monochrome images.

misty hill
I have shared this before, but I do like…So here it is again.

All images in the gallery can be enlarged with a click.


seen as passing by somewhere in Florida

Mukkula manor

Monday window

I spent an afternoon at this manor in Lahti celebrating my father in law’s 90th birthday.

More about the history of Manor One cannot describe the history of the Manor, without giving a special mention to the mysterious ghost of Mukkula, which sometimes makes an appearance around the estate. This is what Helli Jalas, a senior guide at Mukkula tells us: “It is said that a female figure sometimes descends the Manor’s stairs and enters the drawing room. It is believed that she is a former Lady of the Manor, wanting to check that everything in the drawing room is still in order – as it should be.”

Lens-Artists Challenge #308 – Perfect Pairs

Our guest host this week is Elizabeth of Albatz Travels – and she has got a great challenge for for us! Please visit her site for guiding to diptychs:

A diptych is two images placed in proximity to one another, forming a pair. To make a successful pairing there should be several things in common, and something very different, contrasting.

I will do my best to get this right.

First one: young / older, Father / son, back / front, stillness/ on the move


Near and far – same subject


generated image – old style, newer style and the same old face


close and far – shot at twelve apostles in Victoria.


One more and then I am back into my vacation mode. I took this few minutes ago for this challenge. It did not turn out just as I wanted, but as I stated earlier, I,m in the holiday mode. I wasn’t my sharpest, this week…but

Thank you, Elizabeth for a great challenge!

Last week, Leanne lead us through wonderful and different “Tourist Attractions”, capturing the essence of a place, what a journey.  Next week, PR will explore “Balconies,” so be sure to visit Flights of the Soul next Saturday. 

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

At the Saturday market

Had a nice morning by the lakeside summer market at Vuolenkoski.

Johns Cellpic Sunday



Such good bread she had on sale

Folks from their summer homes came to the market on boats, the marina was so full some people had to wait for open spots on the docks