Tag: spring

The Allure of Forget-Me-Nots

Flowers, Photography

I’ve had a blast soaking up some sunny days in the backyard, just watching the colors and flowers burst into life like nature’s own art show. Those little forget-me-nots are a real highlight—so delicate and lovely! I’ve got loads photos of them from past springs, so I definitely don’t need more, but honestly, I can’t resist the urge to snap some fresh shots.

Forget-me-not flowers, their delicate beauty and rich colors amidst lush greenery.

The White Forget Me Not Flower carries a heartfelt spiritual significance for many, embodying enduring love and cherished memories. Often used to pay tribute to those who have passed, this delicate bloom has inspired countless poems and songs that beautifully express the depth of its timeless affection. For some, it serves as a comforting beacon of hope, offering assurance of a brighter tomorrow, while for others, it symbolizes the peace and tranquility that only nature can provide during moments of reflection and loss.

Delicate white forget-me-not flowers
A close-up of delicate white Forget-Me-Not flowers, symbolizing eternal love and remembrance.

The Blue Forget Me Not Flower holds a gentle charm with its spiritual qualities and healing properties, known for bestowing a calming effect and fostering a deep sense of tranquility, making it a wonderful companion for meditation and relaxation. This delicate flower also serves as a heartfelt symbol of remembrance and loyalty, inspired by a poignant medieval legend of a knight who, while gathering these blossoms for his beloved, tragically fell into a river, urging her to “Forget me not.” This touching story has woven the flower into our hearts, associating it with memorials and funerals, reminding us of the enduring connections we cherish.

A vibrant cluster of Blue Forget Me Not flowers
A delicate blue Forget-Me-Not flowers, symbolizing love and remembrance.
A delicate Blue Forget Me Not flowers surrounded by lush green foliage, symbolizing tranquility.

wood anemone basking in the sunlight

Captures from Finland, Flowers

Debbie’s Six Words Saturday

A forest floor filled with delicate wood anemone basking in the sunlight.

Focus on Spring Buds

Black and White photos, Photography

For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness this week I took some photos of spring, trying to capture the essence of renewal and vibrancy that this season brings.

A close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, captured in monochrome, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence.

Some plants are just slowly starting to show small buds of leaves, signaling the awakening of nature after the long, cold early spring. So I took a close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence against the backdrop of the slowly warming air. These two images are just slightly different, mainly by cropping.

Delicate buds emerging from tangled branches

I also added the color version just for no reason other than that I felt like it, wanting to give viewers a contrast that emphasizes the fresh greenery and the subtle hints of color that are beginning to emerge in the landscape.

Spring buds begin to emerge on delicate branches, finally signaling the arrival of the season.

First green

Captures from Finland, Photography
Spring green is finally here

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

Joyful Moments: Embracing Spring’s Beauty

Black and White photos, Photography

Here are my picks for the host Dawns Monochrome Madness #32: Everything Spring and also linking it to Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

Moss popping up under melted snow – spring brings with it a vibrant renewal of life, as patches of green emerge from beneath the remnants of winter’s icy grip. The soft, velvety texture of the moss contrasts beautifully with browns of the earth, creating a picturesque landscape t the beginning of growth. Each little tuft of moss is a testament to nature’s resilience and its ability to flourish in even the harshest conditions, reminding us all of the cycles of life and the beauty of change.

Farmer in his/her tractors in the fields is a sight of spring for sure, as the sun peeks through the clouds and warms the earth, bringing life back to the soil after a long, cold winter. The rhythmic sound of the tractor plowing through the rich, dark earth creates a sense of renewal and hope, while vibrant green shoots begin to emerge, signaling the promise of a bountiful harvest ahead. The air is filled with the fresh scent of tilled soil.

Spring works

Oh the joy of getting rid of winter clothes and putting on the caps, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face as nature begins to wake from its slumber. The waters freed from under ice, shimmering and glistening in the light, if that is not spring, I don’t know what is. I love how the big brother here is holding on to the little brother, their bond of love and togetherness. So caring and loving,

Spring – You ride the bikes you have taken out of storage with your sweetheart, pedaling joyfully along the winding paths, heading to a secluded spot where you can fully embrace the warmth of the spring sun. This delightful moment is best experienced near a charming building that offers a sense of shelter, allowing you to relish the pleasant day without the cool interruptions of the spring breeze. As you lay down near the apple tree blossoms, their delicate petals dancing in the soft air, you can inhale the sweet fragrance that fills the atmosphere, savoring one of the most delightful elements of spring. The soft rustling of leaves in the background and the gentle sounds of nature create a serene symphony that enhances a perfect getaway filled with the simple joys of life.

Soaking the spring sunshine

Is there a spring post without tulips? I am sure there most likely isn’t, as these vibrant flowers symbolize the essence of the season, bursting forth in a palette of colors that bring joy and renewal. They grace gardens and parks, attracting the attention of passersby and inspiring photographers to capture their fleeting beauty. Tulips are not just a flower; they represent the hope and warmth that accompany the arrival of spring, making them an integral part of seasonal celebrations and floral arrangements alike.

MAY Squares #13

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but who knows I might surprise you with something different too, but not today.

I have been busy, the amount of energy it takes to learn is amazing – I am just not ready to sit by the computer at home after having been on it for 8 hour in the office. But I so love this blogging community that I’m trying to keep up posting something here and there.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

Least gagea is the smallest lily that grows wild in Finland. Modest-sized least gagea blooms early in the spring while the land is damp, before other plants hide it from view. In Finland it is named after the cuckoo as it blooms when the first of these birds return, and they are in full bloom around Finnish Mothers’ Day, which falls on the second weekend of May. The flowers attract flower flies and beetles to pollinate it, but still it doesn’t produce many seeds.

Spring flowers, that’s it.

MAY Squares #13

Flowers, Nature

 Becky’s Square challenge,has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but who knows I might surprise you with something different too, but not today.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

Spring flowers, that’s it.

MAY Squares #12

Flowers, Nature

 Becky’s Square challenge,has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but who knows I might surprise you with something different too, but not today.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

The joy of May green

New green

MAY Squares #9

Flowers, Nature

 Becky’s Square challenge,has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but who knows I might surprise you with something different too, but not today.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

wood sorrel

MAY Squares #8

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has a theme,  Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. 

I thought I would take another not so obvious choice, moving forward. they moved, stopped and moved forward in a circle. Sadly I only have these shots taken with my mobile and from rather long distance back, so they are not as crisp as I would prefer, but that’s life. Move one … 🙂

As I am going to post mostly photos of me documenting the spring, these are taken at early spring 🙂 in Australia.

MAY Squares #7

Captures from Finland, Cities

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but not today 🙂

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

When it comes to urban development, it’s a constant process in bustling cities. The skyline is often filled with cranes as new structures rise and old ones undergo renovations. It’s an ever-changing landscape, and the presence of construction cranes has almost become a symbol of progress and transformation. Even though the specific view may have changed over the years, the sight of cranes shaping the city’s skyline remains a familiar one. Helsinki reflects the continuous evolution and growth of the city, offering a blend of modernity and history for all of us to experience.

cranes

MAY Squares #6

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has me mostly documenting the arrival of spring, but who knows I might surprise you with something different too, but not today.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

Sadly after a warm and lovely week, and for the most part of it I have stayed outside – and am I glad I did, because the forecast for the coming week is so depressing – temperatures dropping by 10 degrees at least. Yesterday it was +19 C to day 9C.

We are going to our summer house for an extended weekend before I start work on next Monday and the forecast is not promising. This spring is just depressing, come on. Enough of this cold weather.

Maple tree buds.

MAY Squares #5

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has returned. I sadly thought so some time back, but now it appears that it is really back.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

Lesser celandine is a spring flower which shines in broad-leaved forests and on river banks – until midsummer it is lost, apart from the last remaining white, withered leaves.

Its splendid inflorescence is not just a burden for the species: it is attractive to the human eye and clergymen, farmers and the gentry have planted it in their yards to such an extent that it became a symbol of the better-off classes. Plants that were introduced to flowerbeds to provide some colour in the spring have spread to lawns and park-like nearby forests, where they would not have reached without human help.

As I am going to post mostly photos of me documenting the spring, here are two found yesterday. The bottom one I took because of the background of the photo.

MAY Squares #4

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has returned. I sadly thought so some time back, but now it appears that it is really back.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

Wood Anemone , When Mothers’ Day arrives in Finland at the beginning of May, the broad-leaved forest floors in the south of the country are a sea of wood anemones as nature comes back to life in all her glory. The time when the anemones flower is called the ‘spring aspect’ of the forest, meaning the time when tree leaves don’t yet cast a shadow on the forest floor. 

As I am going to post mostly photos of me documenting the spring, here are two found yesterday. The bottom one I took because of the background of the photo.

MAY Squares #3

Flowers, Nature

Becky’s Squares photo challenge has returned. I sadly thought so some time back, but now it appears that it is really back.

This month’s theme is Renew. Or Burgeoning. Or Moving Forward. Or Reconstructing. You get the idea

As I am going to post mostly photos of me documenting the spring, here are two found yesterday. The bottom one I took because of the background of the photo.

April 23rd, 2024

Captures from Finland, Photography

I’m so mad, this weather is just terrible – in December, I’d be all for it, but snow in April? No way! It’s been snowing non-stop since last night. I had a hair appointment, so I had to venture out. Luckily, my husband hadn’t switched to winter tires yet, so I was okay to drive. Many others weren’t so lucky , my hairdresser had most of her appointments canceled due to the fact that they could not get there.

I took some photos of this white nightmare. The first is from my car window as soon as I parked it.

The streets of Kivenlahti this morning..

delicate blooms

Flowers, Nature

We had a few days of spring, so I took advantage of the opportunity to capture the mandatory photos of snowbells. As one of the first flowers of spring, they symbolize new beginnings, hope, rebirth, and the ability to overcome challenges. The sight of these delicate blooms filled me with hope and positivity.

Snowbells in April

However, nature had a surprise in store for us – a fresh coat of snow arrived just two days ago. Despite the unexpected turn of events, I seized the opportunity to capture the enchanting snow-covered landscape. It’s fascinating how the same scene can take on a different, yet equally captivating, appearance with a layer of snow.

As I’m writing this, a snow blizzard rages outside. While witnessing a snow blizzard at this time of year wasn’t what I had in mind, it’s a poignant reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the beauty it holds, even in the midst of unexpected circumstances.

Posted for Cee’s Midweek Madness Challenge

Spring day

Captures from Finland, Photography

Yesterday felt like the first day of spring, the temperature was about +9C the sun was out – shining bright and there was hardly any wind. I ended up sitting on the patio and watched the snow melt. It’s truly fascinating how the change in weather can bring about such a delightful shift in our surroundings. The gentle warmth of the sun, the gradual disappearance of snow, and the newfound opportunity to spend time outside can truly rejuvenate our spirits. It’s moments like these that make us appreciate the beauty of nature and the promise of new beginnings.

For Cellpic Sunday

a delightful change

Captures from Finland

Today is the vernal equinox, when night and day are roughly the same length all over the globe. I greet this information with joy.

Days grow longer and nights become shorter in the Northern Hemisphere as we approach the summer solstice, which falls on June 20th this year. This transition marks a period of increasing daylight, here (Finland) the daylight hours are expected to extend by approximately 5 to 10 minutes each day until the end of June. This gradual shift brings about a delightful change, the extended sunlight and the promise of warmer days brightens my mood as days grow longer and warmer.

The spring signs – open water

Captures from Finland, Cities

Here are some spring shots from my walk in Helsinki. There were many people about due to the sunny day, one even went for a swim.

On our walk you could see Suomenlinna. the winter setting in this scene evokes a sense of tranquility and historical charm. The tower is a part of a church Given the winter setting and architectural elements, this scene evokes a sense of tranquility and historical charm. The tower appears to be a significant landmark, perhaps part of a church or another notable building.. All photos can be enlarged by clicking on the them.

Suomenlinna

Tranquility at the Water’s Edge

Captures from Finland

The sun, a gentle artist, paints the world in hues of serenity. In this frozen tableau, the shoreline stands as a sentinel, its icy armor glistening under the morning light. The partially frozen water whispers secrets of seasons past, its surface etched with delicate patterns.

hues of serenity

Beyond, the open expanse of water cradles vessels—silent witnesses to the ebb and flow of time. Their hulls, weathered and wise, navigate the boundary between liquid and frozen realms. Against the vast canvas of sky, they appear as mere brushstrokes, their purpose inscribed in the dance of wind and current.

Vessels navigate the boundary between liquid and frozen realms.

The heavens, too, play their part. Wisps of cloud drift lazily, casting fleeting shadows upon the ice. The azure expanse stretches infinitely, inviting contemplation and wonder. And there, on the distant horizon, where sky meets sea, a promise lingers—a promise of journeys yet to unfold.

As the day unfolds, this frozen symphony will thaw, yielding to life’s perpetual rhythm. But for now, let us linger—a moment suspended in time—captivated by the quietude of this frozen seascape.

Vessel’s

Nature – spring and woods

Captures from Finland, Landscapes

The CFFC theme is spring – woods.

Outside it is raining heavily and we have autumn storm with heavy winds blowing outside my window so looking for photos of spring is nice, something to look forward to. I could easily skip winter.

We have lots of woods to choose from as forests cover more than 75 percent of Finland’s land area. Add to that the share of water bodies in Finland’s surface area is large. The area of ​​inland waters is about 10% . So we have 15% left to live in 🙂

The green of spring is beautiful and the birch trees are so lovely, not complaining of the others either. Fresh new green – makes my heart sing.

Wood sorrels raising their heads in moss is a sure sign of spring

Posted for Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge

Spring 2023 – 7

Flowers, Photography

I’m at my happy place, I can hear the birdsong, sound of the wind, bee’s buzzing in this so called place of silence. and smell scent of the Lily of the valley.

Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is well known for its delicate bells and beautiful sweet scent. You’ll find lily of the valley throughout the northern hemisphere. Signifying the return of happiness, the plant is synonymous with the month of May, and it is indeed the birth flower for May.

Lily of the valley meaning

A symbol of purity, joy, love, sincerity, happiness and luck, lily of the valley . It’s actually the national flower of Finland, and in France, on 1st May for La Fête du Muguet, lily of the valleys are gifted to loved ones. This French custom dates back to the 16th century ) – symbolizing luck and happiness.

For Cee´s Flower of the Day.

Spring 2023 – 6

Flowers

I’m at my happy place, I can hear the birdsong, sound of the wind, bee’s buzzing in this so called place of silence.

Blossoms…

Here are some signs of spring , the joy and the glory of nature. I had made up my mind not to take flower pictures as I have so many of them already, but I did anyways.

Apple tree blossoms are in full bloom at the moment, what a glorious sight

For Cee´s Flower of the Day.