A large portion of Air Canada's MAX fleet waiting out the grounding in Arizona.

Raven leaned over the cake, candlelight flickering across her face like tiny stars daring her to smile wider.

“I still don’t like surprises,” she announced, eyes closed, lips already twitching. “Just so everyone knows.”

Hira folded her arms nearby, smirk fully loaded. “She says, moments before enjoying the absolute hell out of this.”

Raven blew.

The flames vanished in a soft rush of smoke, and the room erupted—cheers, clapping, whistles. Music swelled instantly as the lights shifted, colors pulsing to the beat.

From behind the DJ booth, Joey lifted one hand, already working the controls with the other. “MAKE SOME NOISE FOR MY SISTER!” he called out, sliding effortlessly into a celebratory mix.

Raven groaned dramatically, laughing as she straightened. “I knew it. I knew you were involved.”

Joey grinned, glancing toward Hira before turning the music just a notch louder. “Please. This level of deception requires teamwork.”

Hira shot him a look. “You loved every second of it.”

“I did,” he admitted instantly.

Raven shook her head, smiling despite herself. “You kidnapped me. All of you. I was emotionally unprepared.”

Erma stepped in close, wrapping her in a gentle hug. “But you’re happy.”

Raven sighed, melting into it. “Unfortunately… yes.”

A familiar arm slipped around Raven’s waist from behind, grounding and warm. Kaiden leaned in, voice low and amused. “You should’ve seen your face. Worth it.”

She turned in his arms, eyes bright now, no trace of earlier grumpiness left. “You knew too?”

“From the start,” he said, smiling. “And I still survived.”

She laughed, resting her forehead against his. “Traitor.”

Joey layered another track into the mix, bass rolling through the room. “Alright, alright—birthday girl’s officially in a good mood. Drinks up, vibes higher!”

Raven glanced around at everyone—Erma’s glowing smile, Hira’s smug satisfaction, Joey owning the room, Kaiden steady at her side. Her voice softened, genuine now. “Okay… fine. This was perfect.”

Hira raised an eyebrow. “Say it louder so we can replay it later.”

Raven laughed. “I’m happy. There. You win.”

Kaiden kissed her cheek as the music surged again, Joey hyping the crowd, lights flashing brighter.

Raven leaned into the moment, laughter spilling free, the day’s complaints nothing more than a memory now—replaced by music, love, and the undeniable feeling of being exactly where she was meant to be.

Meditation is the foundation...

I learned basic meditation techniques when I was 12 years of age. Over the years my practice has been my ROCK, my grounding force.. my second sight..

What do you see when you close your eyes?

Who do you reveal when you take off the mask?

When do you ever have time to see things as they truly are?

Where is your truth?

How will you ever find peace if your mind's eye leads you astray?

"Why".. it's not the question, it's the answer...

Your path leads you to forget, and it guides you to remember..

For those who ever visited the now closed Wintermoon sim, my soul and heart grieves for you. It was the most unique place in SL.

Often, when visiting, I would feel "guided" to a special spot I had never experienced there before. Each spot held relevance for something requiring resolution in my life at that time. Always I would find resolution and never ever experienced the same spot twice.

I was devastated when it closed. There are no other sims as magical like it in SL and nor should there. It was Wintermoon..

This year will mark the 10th anniversary of the grounding and subsequent helicopter evacuation of 22 Filipino and Korean crew members form the Pasha Bulka. The extra-tropical cyclone or east coast low as they are known on the east coast of Australia, was well forecast and the Newcastle port corporation radioed the 56 ships waiting off the coast requesting they move further offshore before the arrival of the approaching storm. Ten of the ships ignored the warning and the Pasha Bulka subsequently became beached with both bow and stern stuck in the sand almost parallel to Nobbys beach in Newcastle. Record ocean swell heights of 14.13m (46ft) were recorded at the deep water buoy 10km (6.2 miles) off Sydney with 296mm (11.6 in) of rain falling in the 24 hour period causing widespread flooding. After two failed attempts the ship itself was eventually salvaged on its third attempt many weeks later at a cost of $1.8 million. The 225 m (738 ft) long, Panamax bulk carrier, was then towed to Japan where the extensive damage to the ship itself was repaired. It was subsequently renamed the MV Drake. New South Wales, Australia. A particularly humbling experience to watch!

www.robertdowniephotography.com

Love Life, Love Photography

With regular volcanic events grounding air power, and jagged terrain besting wheel and tread, Earth turned to unorthodox machines for subduing the Arkanin hold on Hurink. Combat frames like the Rugops provided a constant armored presence to escort the beleaguered infantry, and were prized for their versatility in the harsh alien environment.

Inspired by Ted Zhang

C-GZSG - Boeing B-737MAX-8 - WestJet

at Hamilton International Airport (YHM)

c/n 60.516 - built in 2018

Currently stored YHM due to the worldwide B-737MAX-grounding

Seeking Hope in the Darkness is about those quiet, uncertain moments when life feels heavy and the path ahead is unclear. There’s something grounding in the presence of old stone, weathered monuments, and distant spires—symbols of endurance that remind us we’re not the first to feel lost.

In the hush of solitude, beneath a pale sky, we begin to listen more closely. We search for meaning not in grand revelations, but in the small things that persist: a familiar ritual, a remembered story, the gentle rhythm of breath.

Hope, in these moments, isn’t loud or certain—it’s a quiet practice. It’s choosing to keep walking, even when the way forward is dim. It’s lighting a candle, writing a few honest words, or simply sitting with the silence. Meaning doesn’t always come fully formed; sometimes it’s something we shape slowly, through connection, reflection, and the soft refusal to give up.

And maybe that’s enough.

Maybe the act of seeking, even in darkness, is its own kind of light.

1920s Berlin Project

"You don't get to choose how you're going to die. Or when. You can only decide how you're going to live. Now." ~ Joan Baez

After another engine failure on one of their A220 Swiss is now grounding them to conduct engine inspections. This is Charlie Kilo arriving rwy 19L the other day.

RIP. 189 people perished when LionAir flight 610 crashed on October 29, 2018 - two months after delivery.

This was the first of two catastrophic disasters for the 737 MAX series, resulting in a worldwide grounding of the aircraft type until December 2020.

Published on International Flight Network IFN). November 13, 2018.

www.ifn.news/posts/lion-air-flight-jt610-what-we-know-so-...

CHAI. Dignity Dining Set - Available at DUBAI

Dignity is more than a word. It’s a way of being. It’s found in the quiet confidence of knowing where you come from and carrying that legacy forward. Our Dignity Collection draws inspiration from mwhere home is a sacred space where respect, honor, and tradition meet. Each piece in this collection reflects that spirit, turning everyday moments into meaningful rituals.

Dining Chairs – Elegantly sculpted with woven seat details, honoring the artistry of handcrafted design.

Dining Table – A striking blend of organic curves and metalwork, grounding the space with strength and grace.

Wicker Ceiling Lamp – Handwoven and layered, casting a warm glow that evokes memories of communal gatherings.

Leaf Panels – Available in 4 color variations, symbolizing growth and renewal.

Rug – Textured and layered, inspired by African textiles, grounding the space with warmth and authenticity.

Table Decor – Thoughtfully curated bird sculptures, fruit bowls, and table mat set that tell stories of abundance and heritage.

What does dignity mean in design? It’s in the respect for natural materials, the reverence for craftsmanship, and the thoughtful balance of beauty and functionality. Dignity is felt in the textures that remind us of the earth, in the patterns that echo ancestral stories, and in the spaces where family and friends gather, just as they have for generations.

Bring this spirit into your home and let every meal, every conversation, and every shared moment be a reminder of where dignity truly lives.

Welcome Home,

CHAI

I am clearly not satisfied with this one: too many brushes, to much glow, too much darkness, no frame (i love frames) but the fact is I don't have the heart to work anymore on it. I left it the way it was when I heard someone I do miss a lot was leaving SL for private matters. I do wish they're ok and having much fun in their RL life, but truth is, I really miss them.

Just so you guys know what kind of great player you might have met if they had stayed amongst us, I will share with you the last message they sent (well, except for the one saying farewell).

The story behind this, is that I rarely speak first (and this does tend to puzzle my friends, but i always feel like i might be interrupting something if i did), so my friend S. had gotten used to say hello first. This particular time, as I was just trying to find a nice angle, I didn't answer straight away and, as an excuse, I sent them a copy of the raw pic saying "sorry for replying late, I've been taught not to talk while eating". Well, S. didn't have much time to stay on, so they didn't say much right away, but this is the message I received a bit later and made me grin:

There are several sayings we have in English, and I suspect other languages as well, that describe some facet of the human condition. But alas, very seldom does this saying adequately describe the preceding situation that lead to the stated condition.

Thank you for grounding me in reality here.

Thanks for having crossed my path, opened my eyes from times to times, entertained me, supported me and beared with me and all the rest. I wish I were as witty as you to tell you how much you are missed. Safe path.

Shut the world out for a few minutes. Go outside. Walk barefoot. Touch some grass. Hug a tree. Ground yourself. Feel the gratitude.

Reconnect with the Source.

Heron spirit animal & totem

Assert your authority and strike while you can

If Heron has come wading across your path;

It is time to look deeper into aspects of your life that will bring out innate wisdom and show you how to become self-reliant. Are you grounding yourself regularly? Heron teaches that grounding yourself in the earth and your spiritual beliefs will help you discover emotional insights more clearly and more quickly.

Alternatively he could be teaching you how how to become comfortable in uncertain situations and to be watchful of opportunities to arise so that you can quickly grasp them and move on.

If Heron is your Animal Totem;

You love to explore various activities and dimensions of Earth life. On the surface, this may seem like a form of dabbling, but more than likely you are wonderfully successful at being a traditional ‘Jack of all trades’.

This ability enables you to follow their own path. Most people will never quite understand the way you live because on the surface it seems to be unstructured without stability or security to it. It is, though, just a matter of perspective. There is security underneath it all, for it gives you the ability to do a variety of tasks. If one way does not work, then another will. This is something you seem to inherently know.

You do not seem to need a lot of people in your life, nor do you feel pressured to keep up with the material world, or to be traditional in your life roles. You stand out in your uniqueness, and you know how to snatch and take advantage of things and events that the average person would not even bother with.

If Heron has come to you in your dreams;

To see a heron in your dream represents self-reliance, stability, tactfulness and careful forethought. You will achieve much success through your efforts. Alternatively, dreaming of a heron signifies your ability to explore and delve into your subconscious.

Native to the southwestern United States, Juniper trees that vary in size and shape are often seen on the dry desert floor of Monument Valley in southern Utah. Monument Valley is officially a large area that includes much of the area surrounding Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a Navajo Nation equivalent to a national park.

Juniper wood is the preferred building material of Navajos for hogans and sweat lodges. The Navajos also use the ash from the Juniper in a thick syrup for cough and sore throat. The most fascinating Navajo use of juniper, however, is for spiritual purposes. This tree is grounding, anchoring us all to the Colorado Plateau, yet also is etheric, acting as a bridge between the worlds. The pollen, released in late winter, is used in Navajo ceremony. A wonderful tradition, still alive today, is the making of juniper bead necklaces. Navajo women painstakingly collect and drill holes in the seeds, making lovely necklaces, plain or with colored seed beads. Babies and people of all ages wear these necklaces for protection on their life journeys.

A Greater Foundation - Outer Banks North Carolina Beach Sunrise Seascape Photography Nags Head NC

Sunrise on the beach during our annual Autumn at the Outer Banks photo workshops. We had so much fun getting our feet and legs wet on this cold and windy morning under dramatic pink and blue skies at the OBX last fall. The name "A Greater Foundation" for me represents both the necessary strength of this man made structure anchored to withstand the extreme elements constantly working against it in the literal sense, and the grounding of my own sense of self that the beach always provides me when my feet are in the water and I am doing what I love. Hope you enjoy the view!

Single exposure, Nikon D810 and Zeiss Milvus 2.8 18mm for .8sec @ f22 ISO-50

© 2017 Dave Allen Photography, All Rights Reserved. This image may NOT be used for anything without my explicit permission.

CHAI. COMMUNION Available at ACCESS. ✨

Where the table becomes a gathering place again.

Christmas is about presence.

It’s about the moments that happen around the table: the pauses between bites, the shared laughter, the quiet clinking of glasses, the stories that resurface year after year.

COMMUNION was created to honor that.

It brings intention back to the table, reminding us that gathering is sacred.

🌲 The Story of COMMUNION

COMMUNION blends natural wood, soft candlelight, and timeless holiday elements to create a setting that feels both festive and grounding.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Communion Dining Table

Available in four wood tones

• Dining Chair

Comfortable, understated, and timeless

• Holiday Décor Pack

A curated tablescape that includes:

Decorative plate with a Christmas bow

Table garlands

Wooden Christmas tree

Bell ornament

Wooden bead accents

Candles

Wine cups

• COMMUNION Full Set

The complete dining experience, available at a discounted price.

🎄 Why COMMUNION Belongs in Your Home

Because the holidays aren’t about things, they’re about who sits beside you.

COMMUNION is for:

families creating new traditions

friends who feel like chosen family

homes that value warmth over excess

Welcome home, CHAI

Eastern Boeing 767 taxiing to runway 23 at Toronto Pearson YYZ, operating a service for Sunwing due to the 737 Max grounding

Male Purple Emperor taking salts from some fishy stuff which had been left on the forest track. One of 3 groundings during a very enjoyable morning in Chiddingfold Forest

Standing as a masterpiece of Baroque and Gothic Revival, the Albert Hall was designed by architect W.J. Morley and completed in 1910. It was originally commissioned by the Manchester and Salford Wesleyan Mission as a "Central Hall"—a grand, welcoming space intended to draw in the city’s working classes who might have found traditional churches too intimidating.

Architectural & Historical Detail

The exterior is a striking display of Burmantofts terracotta and polished granite, featuring an elegant six-stage tower. Inside, the "hidden treasure" of the upper floor is a double-height chapel defined by a massive horseshoe-shaped balcony, original stained-glass windows, and intricate floral plasterwork.

After the Methodists departed in 1969, the grand upper hall lay derelict for over 40 years—a "time capsule" of Victorian grandeur—while the ground floor lived various lives, most notably as the nightclub Brannigans in the 1990s. It wasn't until a meticulous 2013 restoration that the chapel was reopened as one of the world's most atmospheric music venues.

Technical Specifications & Modern Use

• The Venue: The hall has a capacity of 2,000 (approx. 1,500 standing, 500 seated in the original pews).

• The Organ: The stage is dominated by a monumental Rushworth & Dreaper pipe organ, which remains fully functional and integrated into the venue's identity.

• The Sound: A state-of-the-art d&b audiotechnik sound system was custom-installed to manage the unique, natural reverberation of the vaulted space.

• Albert’s Schloss: The ground floor, once housing church offices and even a car showroom in the 1950s, is now home to Albert’s Schloss. This "Cook Haus and Bier Palace" is named after Prince Albert and serves as a Bavarian-style social hub, grounding the ethereal music hall above with copper beer tanks and Alpine hospitality.

We need more public housing with the chronic shortage, especially effecting young families throughout this Isle. All Governments have let people down making grand promises without resolving this terrible problem caring more about their issues and not resolving this basic concern. At the end of the day we all want is a decent home, good schools, decent healthcare and good transport. Some of my family call me a Socialist but in my mind this wish is just a basic bedrock of a decent society whatever your political leaning is. Give people a good basic grounding and many of the social issues would be solved.

This Leopard Shark was swimming in about six to eight inches of water in a small channel in the mud flats. There were Western Sandpipers and Dunlins feeding about eight feet away. The tide receded and the shark did not go out with the tide. It even swan into shallower water.

When it became obvious that it was totally stressed calls were made. First to the Marine Mammal Center and then forwarded to shark experts. It seems that there are a great many sharks grounding themselves. While there is no definite reason there seems to be a parasite that is attacking the brain.

We were told that there was nothing to be done but to let nature take its course. It was heart wrenching to see this creature of nature thrash around and finally succumb.

Article in the San Francisco Chronicle:

www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Leopard-sharks-dying-by-th...

This April, the energy of the universe begins to stir, and a powerful lunar phase is on the horizon – the Pink Moon. This full moon in April is not actually pink – the name comes from the flowering of pink moss phlox flowers in North America at this time. It does however bring an abundance of celestial energy. The Pink Moon is a cosmic invitation to align with your purpose, manifest your dreams, and embrace the abundance of the universe.

The Astrology of the Pink Moon

The Pink Moon falls under the sign of Libra, which is an air sign that is ruled by Venus. Libra is associated with balance, harmony, and relationships. Its symbol is the scales, which represent the need for balance and harmony in all aspects of our lives. Libra’s energy encourages us to seek fairness, equality, and justice, and it inspires us to find common ground with others. During the Pink Moon, the energies of Libra are magnified, and we are called to focus on nurturing our relationships and fostering a sense of balance and harmony in our lives.

The Pink Moon’s ruler is Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and abundance. Venus’s energy is all about creating harmony, bringing people together, and cultivating beauty in our surroundings. Venus encourages us to embrace the love and beauty that surrounds us and to connect with others on a deeper level. Its energy inspires us to find joy in the simple things in life and to express our creativity. During the Pink Moon, Venus’s energy is amplified, adding an extra layer of love and abundance to the energies of Libra.

The combination of Libra’s energy of balance and harmony and Venus’s energy of love and beauty creates a powerful and positive energy that can have a significant impact on our lives. During the Pink Moon, we are encouraged to focus on nurturing our relationships, finding balance and harmony within ourselves and our surroundings, and expressing our creativity. This is a time to let go of any negativity or imbalances in our lives and to focus on manifesting positivity and abundance.

Harnessing the Energy of the Pink Moon

The Pink Moon is a powerful time for manifestation and transformation, providing an opportunity to align with our purpose and manifest our deepest desires. To harness the energy of the Pink Moon, it’s essential to set intentions and focus on what you wish to bring into your life. Start by creating a clear vision of what you want to manifest, using positive affirmations and visualization techniques to anchor your desires in the present moment. Let go of any doubts or fears that may be holding you back and trust in the universe to bring your dreams to fruition.

The Pink Moon is also a time for letting go of what no longer serves you. Use this lunar phase to release any negative emotions, limiting beliefs, or old patterns that are holding you back from reaching your full potential. Trust that by releasing these old patterns, you make space for new growth and transformation in your life.

Rituals for the Pink Moon

The Pink Moon is a powerful time for cleansing and purifying, and there are many rituals you can do to harness this energy. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Smudging

This practice involves burning sage or palo santo to purify the air and cleanse your space and energy. It is a common practice in Native American and Indigenous cultures and is believed to have spiritual and healing benefits.

Crystal Grid

Create a crystal grid using stones like rose quartz, amethyst, and citrine to amplify the energy of the Pink Moon. You can arrange the stones in a specific pattern or design, and place them in your space to enhance the energy of the full moon. This ritual is believed to help bring love, abundance, and manifestation.

Moon Water

Place a jar of water outside under the light of the Pink Moon to infuse it with the energy of the moon. You can use this water for rituals, such as cleansing or blessing, or even to drink. Moon water is considered to have powerful and transformative properties, making it an excellent tool for your spiritual practice.

Candle Magic

Light a pink candle and focus on your intentions and desires. Use the candle to release any fears or doubts and to bring in the energy of manifestation. This ritual is believed to help you align your energy with the energy of the Pink Moon, allowing you to attract positivity and abundance into your life.

How to Make the Most of the Pink Moon

To make the most of the Pink Moon, it’s essential to plan and prepare. Take the time to reflect on your goals and desires, and create a clear plan of action to bring them to fruition. Stay grounded and centered, using meditation or other grounding practices to connect with your inner wisdom and guidance. Trust the process, and know that the universe is conspiring in your favor. Finally, take inspired action, following your intuition and taking steps towards your goals.

Nikki Harper

I've never been religious, but I think I understand the fundamental bases of prayer.

For one thing, it's ritualistic. Whether you do it five times a day on your knees facing east, or weekly on Sundays, or nightly before bed, or every Saturday morning, or whatever... it offers the comfort and grounding and predictability of prescribed routine.

I guess it also makes you feel productive or proactive... in situations where you really have no control.

And I suppose it gives hope. At least... I hope it does.

Really, though... I think prayer's a fancy word for wishing. Except that... instead of just nebulously putting thoughts out there, you direct them to some imagined being who... in theory... has the power to give you what you want.

I have prayed. But it's typically along the lines of "Please, just put me out of my misery." And it's not directed anywhere. Just to myself, to distract me a bit, because that's the best it gets sometimes.

And because... well, a person reaches a point where they just can't take it any more.

Sufferers of chronic pain are vulnerable, I think. Especially when we've tried almost everything out there and STILL we're stuck with the same recurring horrors. I can't count how much I've spent on wacky "cures" and "therapies" through the years. And hey... if it were psychosomatic, I'd be pain-free... because... each and every time, I get fully pumped about the promise of relief from the therapy-du-jour:

Acupuncture. Acupressure. Massage. Physiotherapy. Heat. Cold. Drug therapy. Aromatherapy. Herbs of all descriptions. Dietary changes. Yoga. Stretching. Meditation. New bed, new couch, new glasses, new desk, new work environment. Blah blah blah.

The endless failure to get results is just so... disappointing. Disillusioning. Dispiriting. Flat-out depressing.

It leaves a person desperate. And in desperation, praying.

Not because I think it will work, but because I've exhausted every other option.

C-GZSG - Boeing B-737MAX-8 - WestJet

at Hamilton International Airport (YHM)

c/n 60.516 - built in 2018

Currently stored YHM due to the worldwide B-737MAX-grounding -

looks like this will become a long visit

Boeing 737-8Q8

cn: 30693 / ln: 1422

ff: 02-12-2003

18-12-2003 B-5079 Shenzhen Airlines, config C8Y160

Late 2008 B-5079 Shenzhen Airlines, repainted to new red and white livery

22-06-2017 2-TBXW AerCap (returned)

WingLets fitted

21-08-2017 HS-NGP NewGen Airways, "Sasinee" config Y189

02-2019 wfu

05-2019 2-SNGP retuned to lessor

13-06-2019 OE-IKD rr

12-07-2019 SP-LWE LOT - Polish Airlines, config CY189

Leased in to help after the problems caused by the 737MAX grounding, and operated without any LOT titles, in the previous operaters full livery, including the name "Sasinee".

11-2019 LOT titles added

12-09-2020 wfu

02-03-2021 stored at Tallinn (EETN/TLL)

25-06-2021 SP-ESK Enter Air, config Y189, still in ex NewGen colours, with Enter titles

spring 2022 SP-ESK repainted to full Enter Air colours.

still in service, after 19 years, mostly flying.

Photographed after take-off rwy 09R as LO282 back to Warzaw

I think of him often. The young man from Uganda... an unremarkable man.

We had stopped by the roadside to buy bananas and water, and to photograph the tomatoes that were piled into pyramids at the roadside stalls. A tiny hamlet, on a road to nowhere in particular.

It had been raining and steam rose off the bitumen. Either side of the road the brown puddles were still foamy from the downpour and formed small muddy seas in front of rusted fruit stalls, staffed by eager colourful women. They pulled at the protective plastic sheets covering their produce and called out to us to buy, laughing and competing with one another... and behind them unfolded hills of verdant tea plantations, embossed in green.

As usual, a small knot of excited children formed around me and as the others bought supplies for our journey, I took photos. The children in tattered clothes pushed each other out of the way vying for my attention... giggling and chattering. And behind them stood a man. Softly spoken, he said. “Will you take my photo?”

I didn’t want to, I wanted to continue talking and playing with the children. But he stood there waiting.

Close.

Determined.

Quiet.

And so I took his photo.

“Take me with you.” he said.

“I want to go to your country.” he said.

And the gulf between us yawned dark and wide. His childish question. Childlike and naive, it still haunts me. I can hear his voice now. “Take me with you. I want to go to your country.”

Did I answer him at all? I can’t recall. No words formed, none have stuck in my memory.

“I can’t.” I thought.

I do remember looking into his dark eyes while an explosion of synapses fired off a million connections in my brain like a shock wave. A million reasons as to why I couldn’t. His question was so small and simple and innocent and the real answer to it as complex as life itself.

I looked into his dark eyes and I thought ... you will never leave this village. You will never leave this country, you will never go on an airplane, you will never go to my country. You do not even know what country I am from... [You will] never see all things I’ve seen, smelled, tasted, heard, touched. Never even know the intense joy (the simple pleasure) of stepping into a hot shower; or sleeping on crisp linen sheets; of a myriad of tiny day to day things that slide silently by me.

I looked into his dark eyes and the world spun between us.

His words hung in the air for only a second before they were consumed by the heat of the equatorial sun. Evaporated like the tinest drop of rain only to play over and over in my head for years to come. Like an accusation.

My friends all piled back into the jeep, they had collected food and I had collected the tiniest glimmer of a young man’s soul.

And years later I still think of that young man. In his village. Does he go up to every stranger and ask that same question? And if he asks often enough will someone say “yes”? It is only the arrogance of my colonial view-point that leads me to think that he will always remain there.

A young man with a desire to be.

World Fibromyalgia Awareness Day May 12th and Fibromyalgia Awareness Month May 1st-30th – May is the month we all come together to educate and raise awareness about Fibromyalgia with friends and family, at work, and in our neighbourhoods.

Prayer Feathers Birds are regarded as a messenger to carry our prayers to the Great Spirit. A Prayer Feather is commonly used while smudging.

Here is a listing of the feathers used and the meanings associated with them:

Pheasant - confidence, attraction, perserverance

Ostrich - grounding

Red-tail Hawk - nobility, cleansing, observer

Parrot - sunshine, healing

Great Horned Owl (when available) - the mystery of magic, silent wisdom, omens, detachment, change

Eagle - healing, understanding, renewal, courage, intelligence

Turkey - learning limits, channel energy, balance

Duck/Goose - emotional support

There is something uniquely grounding about a winter hike. My wife and I spent the afternoon exploring the trails at Catawba Bend Preserve in South Carolina, and the silence of the woods was striking.

I was drawn to the way the path draws the eye deep into the mist, flanked by this rhythmic wall of timber. Stripping away the color really let the textures of the bark and the geometry of the trees speak for themselves. A perfect day for clearing the head.

K9 Weekend Sale : Step into a weekend of effortless style and calm with CHAI. GROUNDING. Our fresh setup brings together modern design and natural touches—cozy textures, inviting greenery, and clean lines that transform your space into a serene retreat. Whether you’re unwinding or sparking creativity, let this look inspire a balanced vibe in every corner of your home.

Discover the art of living well with CHAI.—your space, your sanctuary.

Mainstore📍: maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/La%20Boniquita/139/158/1246

Welcome Home,

CHAI.

🍵 Follow our Socials : linktr.ee/chai.sl

The bright silvery dome of the Refugio Cabaña Verónica perches high on a limestone ridge under the darkening convective clouds of a summer afternoon, Picos de Europa National Park, Asturias, España.

I had read about this Refugio before seeing it here for the first time, its strange, domed prominence adhered to the bedrock. Its singular story compelled an in-person visit. The structure comes from the anti-aircraft battery of the USS Palau, which was a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier built in Tacoma, Washington, at the end of World War II. By 1960, the then obsolete Palau was due to be scrapped in a shipyard near Bilbao. But in 1961, an enterprising pair of gentleman named Conrado Sentíes, an engineer, and his friend Luis Pueyo, an architect, salvaged the metal cupola that crowned one of the gun batteries, and they envisioned using it to build a Refugio in their beloved mountains.

First, these intrepid individuals had to devise a way to transport the material to the intended site. A lack of available budget evidently precluded the use of a helicopter, so instead, a team of 8 horses was employed to schlep the dismantled structure to its current location at 2,325 meters above the sea. The curved segments of metal were then re-assembled, like stitching the segments of an orange back together. Out of sight, there is a critical grounding cable sent deep into the rock to dissipate the current from electrical storms. The Refugio’s current configuration will accommodate 6 people sleeping in bunks, and these lucky guests also are provisioned with meals and drinks by the keeper.

My wife and son could not be persuaded to join me for the climb up to the Refugio. Instead, they found a sheltered nook and took a nap in the sun some ways below. A Tundra Nap is a thing of beauty so I can find no fault with this decision. However, being apparently unable to relax and lie down, I continued alone with my daft enterprise until I crested a small ridgeline and found myself positioned to take in this expansive view as the clouds rolled in ever more densely.

Start spring vacation vibes with the newest item from SAYO. The Como Stone Pergola sits at only 8LI, featuring romantic archways and fine gravel grounding perfect for any whistful gathering. Stop by Prism Events Bloom March 19th!

maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Prism%20Events/128/134/51

I recently upgraded to Flickr Pro with unlimited uploads. I can now share some scans of found colour slides I have purchased at various places over the last 20 years. Whilst I have one or two complete rolls, this lot were mostly acquired as loose slides. Ie they were no longer a part of a cohesive roll, sadly. They must tell their own story, and only that.

Whilst I am the legal owner of the physical media, I do not hold any copyright in this image. I am sharing it because it forms a part of our social and cultural history.

The images are mostly 35mm Kodachrome slide scans, however there are a few 126 Instamatic scans occasionally, as well as a few Ektachrome, and a handful of other slide types, coming along soon.

In the (unlikely) event a living photographer finds one of their images represented here and does not wish for it to be so published, please contact me via the message system on Flickr and I will remove any relevant content promptly.

Enjoy.

SS Iberia had an eventful career with numerous groundings, collisions and mechanical failures. You can read more about that at its wikipedia page:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SS_Iberia_(1954)

As true as possible to the conditions of the day

a deluge of emotion raining down the Tor

oblique, occasionally obscured, the mind at play

tricks of the Spring trading in it's warmth for

the changes we lavish with stats to get our way

now all forgotten, open to the Sanctus winds in store

following a fatherly lead progress really is made

undestroyed memories pass like high-speed windows

of the train that doesn't stop at my station frayed

for this is already the journey of never ending shadows

images of bygone fellows burrow the mind and invade

now up this timeless path to the frenzy of misted narrows

what cannot be true engages the senses out of wedlock

refined living and celebate myths rise ever-more steeper

the stories of others battles it's way into a souvenir woodblock

highlighted by stove-light to illuminate the diary keeper

visions past play before the Tor to this windswept flock

as if the rich strain of today's forebearance could possibly be any deeper

the howls and hoots of weathering beyond the graves

whistles past me like a snapshot of reanimate comfort

what joy it brings over these dark momentary waves

now there's no time for any time-sickness's discomfort

as time itself forever marches with no conscience of how it behaves

for such defined reasoning of this moment is left to the scale of Beaufort!

now it's done, the weather leaves no cadre unturned, so to speak

just the cacti touch of presage-driven rain into this speed camera record

of all we have done upon the humbling trail of ancestral antique

thus it becomes ever clearer, staggering up the hill of reverence restored

for every monument on the surface has inner revelations unique

and that's for us to decipher, for it's this elemental grounding we walk toward.

by anglia24 (in the steps of my forebears)

09h45: 05/06/2008

©2008anglia24

The glorious Mid Air Squadron's charismatic Hawker Hunter T.7 XL577 slices the Dunsfold air as she flies a lovely topside pass during the 2014 Wings & Wheels show

Sadly the outfit didn't survive and with the CAA's grounding of Hunters she was sold to Jordan - departing there in May 2016

DSC02565

High above Sintra’s lush forests, the brilliant yellow walls of Palácio Nacional da Pena gleam beneath the Portuguese sun—a vivid symbol of Romanticism and imagination. This section of the palace, with its crenellated battlements, domed tower, and intricate stone carvings, reflects the daring vision of King Ferdinand II, who transformed a ruined monastery into a royal retreat that defied architectural convention. The bright ochre plaster and ornate detailing blur the lines between castle and fantasy, combining Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline influences into a single exuberant statement.

Every element of this facade tells a story: the onion-shaped dome inspired by Islamic architecture, the scalloped parapets echoing medieval fortresses, and the finely carved window frames that draw from Portugal’s seafaring heritage. The textures of volcanic stone contrast with the smooth, sunlit surfaces, creating a theatrical play of light and shadow against the Serra de Sintra backdrop. It’s a perfect embodiment of 19th-century Romanticism’s fascination with emotion, color, and the sublime.

Visitors crossing the courtyard are enveloped by the palace’s energy—part fairy tale, part architectural experiment. From this vantage point, the view extends across pine-covered hills toward the Atlantic, grounding the palace’s fantasy in a landscape of extraordinary natural beauty.

The yellow facade of Palácio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal, captures the Romantic era’s fusion of imagination, color, and cross-cultural influence—an architectural masterpiece perched high above the Portuguese countryside.

2 x Lynx HAS.3 Black Cats of 702 NAS RN

Westland Lynx

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AgustaWestland Lynx

Lynx HAS3 of the Black Cats (Royal Navy) display team

Type Helicopter

Manufacturer Westland/AgustaWestland

Maiden flight 21 March 1971

Introduced 1978

Status Active service

Primary users Army Air Corps (British Army)

Fleet Air Arm (Royal Navy)

French Navy

German Navy

Produced 1968-date

The Westland Lynx is a helicopter designed by Westland and built at Westland's factory in Yeovil, first flying on 21 March 1971 as the Westland WG.13. Originally intended as a utility craft for both civil and naval usage, military interest led to the development of the Army and Navy Lynx, which went into operational usage in 1977 and was later adopted by the armed forces of over a dozen nations. The helicopter is now produced and marketed by AgustaWestland.

Several aircraft were built under licence by French company Aerospatiale for French usage.

When piloted by Roy Moxam in 1972, it broke the world record over 15 and 25 km by flying at 321.74 km/h. It also set a new 100 km closed circuit record shortly afterwards, flying at 318.504 km/h. In 1986, a specially modified Westland Lynx piloted by John Egginton set an absolute speed record for helicopters over a 15 and 25 km course by reaching 400.87 km/h (249.09 mp/h). The Lynx is one of the most agile helicopters in the world, capable of performing backflips, among other things.

The British Army ordered 100 Lynx AH (Army Helicopter) Mk.1 for various roles, including tactical transport, armed escort, anti-tank warfare (with eight TOW missiles), reconnaissance and evacuation. The Army has fitted a Marconi Elliot AFCS system onto the Lynx for automatic stabilisation on three axis.

Contents

[hide]

* 1 Service history

* 2 Future Lynx

* 3 Versions

* 4 Users

* 5 Specifications (Super Lynx Series 100)

* 6 External links

* 7 Gallery

* 8 Related content

[edit]

Service history

In British service it equips the Army Air Corps (AAC) and the Fleet Air Arm (FAA). For the AAC the Lynx AH.7 and AH.9 operate as attack helicopters. The Lynx AH.7 is service with the FAA where it operates as an attack/utility helicopter in support of the Royal Marines, and the Lynx HMA.8 as anti-submarine warfare helicopter equipped with the Sea Skua anti-ship missile for Royal Navy warships.

The Lynx most prominent combat role was operating the Sea Skua, to devastating effect against the Iraqi Navy during the 1991 Gulf War. The Lynx also saw service with British Army forces during that conflict. It had already made its first combat operations in British service during the Falklands War in the 80s. None were shot down, but three were lost aboard vessels hit by Argentine bombs or Exocets, one on the MV Atlantic Conveyor and one each on board HMS Coventry and HMS Ardent.

It was used during Operation Barras to rescue 11 British soldiers in Sierra Leone on 10 September 2000.

The most recent wartime mission for the Lynx was during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. It has also seen extensive service during peacekeeping operations and exercises, and it is standard equipment for most Royal Navy surface combatants when they deploy.

A British Lynx from No. 847 Naval Air Squadron was shot down over Basra, Iraq on May 6, 2006. The helicopter is believed to have been downed by either a missile or more likely, a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG). The Lynx crashed into a house and burst into flames, killing all five on board, including the Commanding Officer of 847 NAS. Something of a riot occurred with locals celebrating the downing of the helicopter and surrounding the crash site as British troops rushed to the scene. This was the first British helicopter and only the second British aircraft downed (the first was an RAF Hercules) due to enemy fire in the war.

Despite being well liked by the services the Lynx does not have a good safety record. The aircraft has been grounded on a number of occations. For example in 2000 fatigue problems with the rotor head led to a Dutch aircraft crash and subsequent grounding. In early 2004 three Lynx crashed in a matter of weeks and again some aircraft were grounded. One of the reasons for the Future Lynx programme is to cure some of the known problems with the airframe and rotor systems.

[edit]

Future Lynx

On 22 June 2006 the UK Ministry of Defence awarded Westland a £1 billion contract for 70 Future Lynx helicopters under a strategic partnering agreement with AgustaWestland[1]. The programme will provide the British Army and Royal Navy with 40 and 30 aircraft respectively, with an option for a further 10, split equally between Army and Navy.

Future Lynx is described as a new aircraft that builds on the dynamic and vehicle systems of the existing design, incorporating advanced technology and providing increased capability. The fatigue problems with the exisiting airframe and rotor system are to be corrected. Future Lynx will utilise some systems developed for the Super Lynx 300 and will feature a redesigned nose and rear fuselage to give greater space and easier access to avionic units. Future Lynx will be powered by two LHTEC CTS800 engines, offering increased power and endurance over existing Lynx powerplants, while retaining economy.

The first Future Lynx is programmed to make its maiden flight in 2009, with initial deliveries in 2011. The Army variant will enter operational service in 2014, with the RN variant following in 2015.

[edit]

Versions

A Lynx of the Royal Malaysian Navy

Enlarge

A Lynx of the Royal Malaysian Navy

* Westland WG.13: prototype that first flew on 21 March 1971.

* Lynx AH.1: Initial production version for the Army Air Corps, with over 100 examples built. Used for a variety of tasks, including tactical transport, armed escort, anti-tank warfare (equipped with eight TOW missiles), reconnaissance and casualty evacuation.

* Lynx AH.1GT: Interim conversion of the AH.Mk 1 for the British Army.

* Lynx HAS.2: Initial production version for the Royal Navy and the French Aeronavale. When it is used in the anti-submarine role, it is equipped with two torpedoes or depth charges and a dipping sonar. For anti-surface warfare, it is equipped with either four Sea Skua missiles (Royal Navy) or four AS.12 missiles (Aeronavale).

o Lynx HAS.2(FN): French version of the HAS.Mk 2 for the Aeronavale.

* Lynx HAS.3

o HAS.3(S): Improved version of the HAS.Mk 3 for the Royal Navy fitted with secure radio systems.

o HAS.3(GM(S)): Nineteen modified helicopters for the Royal Navy, for service in the Persian Gulf (GM denotes Gulf Modification).

o HAS.3(ICE(S)) : Two helicopters for the Royal Navy for use in the Arctic.

o HT.3: Proposed training version for the RAF, not built.

* Lynx HAS.4(FN): Upgraded version for the Aeronavale.

* Lynx AH.5: Experimental version for the British Army. Only 4 were ever built.

* Lynx AH.6: Proposed version for the Royal Marines, not built.

* Lynx AH.7: Attack version for the Army Air Corps and Royal Marines.

* Lynx HMA.8 ("Super Lynx"): Upgraded maritime attack version.

o HMA.8DSP: Digital Signal Processor.

o HMA.8DAS: Defensive Aids Subsystem

* Lynx AH.9 ("Battlefield Lynx"): British Army version of the Super Lynx (AH.7 with wheeled undercarriage).

* Lynx Mk.21: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Brazilian navy. Brazilian navy designation 'SAH-11".

* Super Lynx Mk.21A: Export version of the Super Lynx for the Brazilian navy.

* Lynx Mk.22: Unbuilt export version for the Egyptian navy.

* Lynx Mk.23: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Argentine navy. Later sold to Brazil and Denmark.

* Lynx Mk.24: Unbuilt export version for the Iraqi army.

* Lynx Mk.25: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Royal Netherlands Navy, also designated "UH-14A" in Dutch service.

* Lynx Mk.26: Unbuilt export version for the Iraqi army.

* Lynx Mk.27: Export version for the Royal Netherlands Navy, also designated "SH-14B" in Dutch service.

* Lynx Mk.28: Export version of the AH.Mk 1 for the Qatar Police.

* Lynx Mk.64: Export version of the Super Lynx for the South African Air Force.

* Lynx Mk.80: Export version of the HAS.Mk 2 for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Lynx Mk.81: Export version for the Royal Netherlands Navy, designated "SH-14C" in Dutch service.

* SH-14D: Upgraded helicopters for the Royal Netherlands Navy.

* Lynx Mk.82: Unbuilt export version for the Egyptian army.

* Lynx Mk.83: Unbuilt export version for the Saudi Arabian army.

* Lynx Mk 84: Unbuilt export version for the Qatar army.

* Lynx Mk 85: Unbuilt export version for the United Arab Emirates army.

* Lynx Mk.86: Export version of the HAS Mk 2 for the Royal Norwegian Air Force.

* Lynx Mk.87: Embargoed export version of the Argentine navy.

* Lynx Mk.88: Export version for the German Navy.

* Super Lynx Mk.88A: Upgraded version of the Lynx Mk.88 for the German Navy.

* Lynx Mk.89: Export version for the Nigerian navy.

* Lynx Mk.90: Export version for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Super Lynx Mk.90B: Upgraded versions of the Lynx Mk.80 and Lynx Mk.90 for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Lynx Mk.95: Export version of the HAS.8 for the Portuguese Navy.

* Lynx Mk.99: Export version of the HAS.8 for the South Korean Navy.

* Super Lynx 300: Export version of the Super Lynx.

* Battlefield Lynx: Proposed export version.

* Battlefield 800: Proposed export version, the project was abandoned in 1992.

* Lynx ACH: Experimental version

Notes:

* AH: Attack Helicopter

* HAS: Helicopter, Anti-Submarine

* HMA: Helicopter, Maritime Attack

* (GM): Gulf Modification

* (S): Secure speech radio

[edit]

Users

* Argentine Navy

* Brazilian Navy

* British Army

* British Royal Navy

* Royal Danish Navy

* French Navy

* German Navy (Twelve ordered in 1981 for use on navy frigates.)

* South Korean Navy

* Royal Malaysian Navy

* Netherlands Royal Navy (Six search and rescue and 18 anti-submarine warfare models.)

* Nigerian Navy

* Norway (Six operated on behalf of the Coast Guard by 337 Skvadron of the The Air Force from the Nordkapp Class cutters.)

* Royal Air Force of Oman

* Portuguese Navy (Used on "Vasco da Gama class frigates".)

* South African Air Force (Four of the Super Lynx 300 version for use on the SAN's Valour class patrol corvettes.)

* Qatar State Police

* Pakistan Navy(Westland Lynx Anti-Ship/Anti-Submarine/Transport Helicopters )

[edit]

Specifications (Super Lynx Series 100)

Data from Flight International World Aircraft and Systems Directory (3rd ed.)

General characteristics

* Crew: 2 or 3

* Length: 15.24 m (50 ft)

* Rotor diameter: 12.80 m (42 ft)

* Height: 3.67 m (12 ft 0.5 in)

* Disc area: 1,385.4 m (128.71 sq ft)

* Empty weight: 3,291 kg (7,255 lb)

* Max takeoff weight: 5,330 kg (11,750 lb)

* Powerplant: 2× Rolls-Royce Gem, 835 kW (1,120 shp) each

Performance

* Cruise speed: 254 km/h (158 mph)

* Range: 528 km (328 miles [standard tanks])

Armament

* Naval: 2 x torpedoes or 4x Sea Skua missiles or 2 x depth charges.

* Attack: 8 x TOW ATGM

* General: GPMGs

Wikipedia

last week, we had some rally beautiful sunny days.

please do not use my picture without permission

ZD265 306 Lynx HMA.8DAS of 815 HQ Flt.

Westland Lynx

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

AgustaWestland Lynx

Lynx HAS3 of the Black Cats (Royal Navy) display team

Type Helicopter

Manufacturer Westland/AgustaWestland

Maiden flight 21 March 1971

Introduced 1978

Status Active service

Primary users Army Air Corps (British Army)

Fleet Air Arm (Royal Navy)

French Navy

German Navy

Produced 1968-date

The Westland Lynx is a helicopter designed by Westland and built at Westland's factory in Yeovil, first flying on 21 March 1971 as the Westland WG.13. Originally intended as a utility craft for both civil and naval usage, military interest led to the development of the Army and Navy Lynx, which went into operational usage in 1977 and was later adopted by the armed forces of over a dozen nations. The helicopter is now produced and marketed by AgustaWestland.

Several aircraft were built under licence by French company Aerospatiale for French usage.

When piloted by Roy Moxam in 1972, it broke the world record over 15 and 25 km by flying at 321.74 km/h. It also set a new 100 km closed circuit record shortly afterwards, flying at 318.504 km/h. In 1986, a specially modified Westland Lynx piloted by John Egginton set an absolute speed record for helicopters over a 15 and 25 km course by reaching 400.87 km/h (249.09 mp/h). The Lynx is one of the most agile helicopters in the world, capable of performing backflips, among other things.

The British Army ordered 100 Lynx AH (Army Helicopter) Mk.1 for various roles, including tactical transport, armed escort, anti-tank warfare (with eight TOW missiles), reconnaissance and evacuation. The Army has fitted a Marconi Elliot AFCS system onto the Lynx for automatic stabilisation on three axis.

Contents

[hide]

* 1 Service history

* 2 Future Lynx

* 3 Versions

* 4 Users

* 5 Specifications (Super Lynx Series 100)

* 6 External links

* 7 Gallery

* 8 Related content

Service history

In British service it equips the Army Air Corps (AAC) and the Fleet Air Arm (FAA). For the AAC the Lynx AH.7 and AH.9 operate as attack helicopters. The Lynx AH.7 is service with the FAA where it operates as an attack/utility helicopter in support of the Royal Marines, and the Lynx HMA.8 as anti-submarine warfare helicopter equipped with the Sea Skua anti-ship missile for Royal Navy warships.

The Lynx most prominent combat role was operating the Sea Skua, to devastating effect against the Iraqi Navy during the 1991 Gulf War. The Lynx also saw service with British Army forces during that conflict. It had already made its first combat operations in British service during the Falklands War in the 80s. None were shot down, but three were lost aboard vessels hit by Argentine bombs or Exocets, one on the MV Atlantic Conveyor and one each on board HMS Coventry and HMS Ardent.

It was used during Operation Barras to rescue 11 British soldiers in Sierra Leone on 10 September 2000.

The most recent wartime mission for the Lynx was during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. It has also seen extensive service during peacekeeping operations and exercises, and it is standard equipment for most Royal Navy surface combatants when they deploy.

A British Lynx from No. 847 Naval Air Squadron was shot down over Basra, Iraq on May 6, 2006. The helicopter is believed to have been downed by either a missile or more likely, a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG). The Lynx crashed into a house and burst into flames, killing all five on board, including the Commanding Officer of 847 NAS. Something of a riot occurred with locals celebrating the downing of the helicopter and surrounding the crash site as British troops rushed to the scene. This was the first British helicopter and only the second British aircraft downed (the first was an RAF Hercules) due to enemy fire in the war.

Despite being well liked by the services the Lynx does not have a good safety record. The aircraft has been grounded on a number of occations. For example in 2000 fatigue problems with the rotor head led to a Dutch aircraft crash and subsequent grounding. In early 2004 three Lynx crashed in a matter of weeks and again some aircraft were grounded. One of the reasons for the Future Lynx programme is to cure some of the known problems with the airframe and rotor systems.

[edit]

Future Lynx

On 22 June 2006 the UK Ministry of Defence awarded Westland a £1 billion contract for 70 Future Lynx helicopters under a strategic partnering agreement with AgustaWestland[1]. The programme will provide the British Army and Royal Navy with 40 and 30 aircraft respectively, with an option for a further 10, split equally between Army and Navy.

Future Lynx is described as a new aircraft that builds on the dynamic and vehicle systems of the existing design, incorporating advanced technology and providing increased capability. The fatigue problems with the exisiting airframe and rotor system are to be corrected. Future Lynx will utilise some systems developed for the Super Lynx 300 and will feature a redesigned nose and rear fuselage to give greater space and easier access to avionic units. Future Lynx will be powered by two LHTEC CTS800 engines, offering increased power and endurance over existing Lynx powerplants, while retaining economy.

The first Future Lynx is programmed to make its maiden flight in 2009, with initial deliveries in 2011. The Army variant will enter operational service in 2014, with the RN variant following in 2015.

[edit]

* Westland WG.13: prototype that first flew on 21 March 1971.

* Lynx AH.1: Initial production version for the Army Air Corps, with over 100 examples built. Used for a variety of tasks, including tactical transport, armed escort, anti-tank warfare (equipped with eight TOW missiles), reconnaissance and casualty evacuation.

* Lynx AH.1GT: Interim conversion of the AH.Mk 1 for the British Army.

* Lynx HAS.2: Initial production version for the Royal Navy and the French Aeronavale. When it is used in the anti-submarine role, it is equipped with two torpedoes or depth charges and a dipping sonar. For anti-surface warfare, it is equipped with either four Sea Skua missiles (Royal Navy) or four AS.12 missiles (Aeronavale).

o Lynx HAS.2(FN): French version of the HAS.Mk 2 for the Aeronavale.

* Lynx HAS.3

o HAS.3(S): Improved version of the HAS.Mk 3 for the Royal Navy fitted with secure radio systems.

o HAS.3(GM(S)): Nineteen modified helicopters for the Royal Navy, for service in the Persian Gulf (GM denotes Gulf Modification).

o HAS.3(ICE(S)) : Two helicopters for the Royal Navy for use in the Arctic.

o HT.3: Proposed training version for the RAF, not built.

* Lynx HAS.4(FN): Upgraded version for the Aeronavale.

* Lynx AH.5: Experimental version for the British Army. Only 4 were ever built.

* Lynx AH.6: Proposed version for the Royal Marines, not built.

* Lynx AH.7: Attack version for the Army Air Corps and Royal Marines.

* Lynx HMA.8 ("Super Lynx"): Upgraded maritime attack version.

o HMA.8DSP: Digital Signal Processor.

o HMA.8DAS: Defensive Aids Subsystem

* Lynx AH.9 ("Battlefield Lynx"): British Army version of the Super Lynx (AH.7 with wheeled undercarriage).

* Lynx Mk.21: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Brazilian navy. Brazilian navy designation 'SAH-11".

* Super Lynx Mk.21A: Export version of the Super Lynx for the Brazilian navy.

* Lynx Mk.22: Unbuilt export version for the Egyptian navy.

* Lynx Mk.23: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Argentine navy. Later sold to Brazil and Denmark.

* Lynx Mk.24: Unbuilt export version for the Iraqi army.

* Lynx Mk.25: Export version of the HAS.2 for the Royal Netherlands Navy, also designated "UH-14A" in Dutch service.

* Lynx Mk.26: Unbuilt export version for the Iraqi army.

* Lynx Mk.27: Export version for the Royal Netherlands Navy, also designated "SH-14B" in Dutch service.

* Lynx Mk.28: Export version of the AH.Mk 1 for the Qatar Police.

* Lynx Mk.64: Export version of the Super Lynx for the South African Air Force.

* Lynx Mk.80: Export version of the HAS.Mk 2 for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Lynx Mk.81: Export version for the Royal Netherlands Navy, designated "SH-14C" in Dutch service.

* SH-14D: Upgraded helicopters for the Royal Netherlands Navy.

* Lynx Mk.82: Unbuilt export version for the Egyptian army.

* Lynx Mk.83: Unbuilt export version for the Saudi Arabian army.

* Lynx Mk 84: Unbuilt export version for the Qatar army.

* Lynx Mk 85: Unbuilt export version for the United Arab Emirates army.

* Lynx Mk.86: Export version of the HAS Mk 2 for the Royal Norwegian Air Force.

* Lynx Mk.87: Embargoed export version of the Argentine navy.

* Lynx Mk.88: Export version for the German Navy.

* Super Lynx Mk.88A: Upgraded version of the Lynx Mk.88 for the German Navy.

* Lynx Mk.89: Export version for the Nigerian navy.

* Lynx Mk.90: Export version for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Super Lynx Mk.90B: Upgraded versions of the Lynx Mk.80 and Lynx Mk.90 for the Royal Danish Navy.

* Lynx Mk.95: Export version of the HAS.8 for the Portuguese Navy.

* Lynx Mk.99: Export version of the HAS.8 for the South Korean Navy.

* Super Lynx 300: Export version of the Super Lynx.

* Battlefield Lynx: Proposed export version.

* Battlefield 800: Proposed export version, the project was abandoned in 1992.

* Lynx ACH: Experimental version

Notes:

* AH: Attack Helicopter

* HAS: Helicopter, Anti-Submarine

* HMA: Helicopter, Maritime Attack

* (GM): Gulf Modification

* (S): Secure speech radio

Users

* Argentine Navy

* Brazilian Navy

* British Army

* British Royal Navy

* Royal Danish Navy

* French Navy

* German Navy (Twelve ordered in 1981 for use on navy frigates.)

* South Korean Navy

* Royal Malaysian Navy

* Netherlands Royal Navy (Six search and rescue and 18 anti-submarine warfare models.)

* Nigerian Navy

* Norway (Six operated on behalf of the Coast Guard by 337 Skvadron of the The Air Force from the Nordkapp Class cutters.)

* Royal Air Force of Oman

* Portuguese Navy (Used on "Vasco da Gama class frigates".)

* South African Air Force (Four of the Super Lynx 300 version for use on the SAN's Valour class patrol corvettes.)

* Qatar State Police

* Pakistan Navy(Westland Lynx Anti-Ship/Anti-Submarine/Transport Helicopters )

Specifications (Super Lynx Series 100)

Data from Flight International World Aircraft and Systems Directory (3rd ed.)

General characteristics

* Crew: 2 or 3

* Length: 15.24 m (50 ft)

* Rotor diameter: 12.80 m (42 ft)

* Height: 3.67 m (12 ft 0.5 in)

* Disc area: 1,385.4 m (128.71 sq ft)

* Empty weight: 3,291 kg (7,255 lb)

* Max takeoff weight: 5,330 kg (11,750 lb)

* Powerplant: 2× Rolls-Royce Gem, 835 kW (1,120 shp) each

Performance

* Cruise speed: 254 km/h (158 mph)

* Range: 528 km (328 miles [standard tanks])

Armament

* Naval: 2 x torpedoes or 4x Sea Skua missiles or 2 x depth charges.

* Attack: 8 x TOW ATGM

* General: GPMGs

Comparable aircraft

* SH-60 Sea Hawk

* SH-2 Sea Sprite

Designation sequence

Westland Dragonfly - Westland Whirlwind - Westland Wessex- Westland Scout - Westland Wasp - Westland Lynx

This is a reaction to yesterday's fiasco of a 365 shot - massive thanks to everyone who left encouraging comments but I haven't changed my mind about it - it still sucks.

You guys really made me feel better though so hats off to ya.

I've got a new plan now. What I'd like to get out of the next one hundred days is a solid grounding in the fundamentals. The art of taking a good photograph. This has become more and more important to me over the last week or so and hopefully it's been reflected in my 365, with less reliance placed on Photoshop and more shots taken on location so to speak. If I can call my back garden a location ha ha!

With this in mind I had a flick through a book my dad found at my grandparent's house. It's quite old (first published 1977 - older then me!) and of course it's all about film cameras but the fundamentals of photography aren't going to change so I figured I can get the theory from this book and translate it to the digital age.

I read up about depth of field this morning - I love a bit of bokeh so I thought it'd be a good place to start.

I think I understand it a bit better now and I wanted to put into practise what I'd learnt so . . . I spent a bit of time in the back garden this morning trying it out.

I've decided, after yesterday's disappointment at getting some nice shots at Nothe Fort ruined by me lazily auto-focusing, to use manual focus as much as possible. This way I'll get what I want in focus instead of what the camera decides. It took me exactly fourty-four shots to get this one - I had one other serious contender but the detail was clearer in this one.

I put it through Lightroom to boost the greens - basically I whacked all the sliders pertaining to the colour green up to 100.

I know that the bokeh in this shot isn't really bokeh, but the maximum I could stop the aperture down to was about 5.3ish and the background wasn't that far behind me. I got the focus right - took about half an hour though! I'd like to get at least one shot with some as-serious-as-I-can-get-for-the-aperture bokeh this week . . . just have to wait and see if I make it any further than the back yard.

I'm not going to deprive myself of Photoshop totally but for the time being I'm going to try and put some photo theory into practise.

Uh, and the reason I was wearing a beanie in the bright, warm sunshine was because I'd only just finished watching Match of the Day and hadn't had time to get ready. I had bedhead OK?! That might also explain why I look so damn rough - taking photos early in the morning is not good for the looks ha ha!

I'll finish talking about this shot by saying I'm really pleased how it's come out. I might even do a depth of field mini-series this week . . . if nothing else it'll be good practise. Real edgy stuff eh?

Yeah, right . . . ummm . . . what did I do today? Well, it didn't start off too well, I had to suffer watching Man Utd lose 2-1 to Liverpool on Match of the Day, much to Joe's delight. By all accounts we were complete arse and deserved to lose - and this is against Liverpool with two of their big players missing. Gutted.

Then I compouded my misery by tripping the electricity while making toast! It wasn't till about half an hour ago me and Lydia realised we hadn't turned the freezer back on so everything in it was slowly melting and/or going rotten. Bugger.

We had a band rehearsal this afternoon. Things didn't go too well to start with, none of us had learnt all the songs and we had to work really hard to get anything done. The songs we ran through today were:

Monkeywrench - Foo Fighters

Slide Away - Oasis

Wake Me Up When September Ends - Green Day (this one's for the punters, none of us are that into it)

Bodysnatchers - Radiohead

Enter Sandman - Metallica

It's fair to say that Bodysnatchers was a total bust - it sounds quite simple but when you break it down it's so bloody complicated! And it treads a very fine line between sounding great and sounding shite. We sounded like the latter. The trouble with it is that the guitar sound (actually the three different guitar parts and their sounds) has to be just right to make it work or it ends up sounding like a dirge. We've put that one on the backburner for a while.

Slide Away should've been easy, it's Oasis for god's sake, but I'd forgotten everything bar the main solo so it was a bit of a struggle. It was sounding better the last time we played it though so it might make it into the next set. Just needs tightening up.

Monkeywrench sounded pretty good straight off, again a bit more tightening up is all that's needed and I think that'll make it into the set for the next gig.

Wake Me Up . . . sounded pretty damn good from the outset. I had to learn it on the spot because I hadn't run through it before so when we figured out where the guitars drop in and out that actually sounded good.

Enter Sandman . . . we've played this one before at a gig but it was only because a load of people were shouting at us to play it after Wayne started jamming the riff. We made it up to the solo before it went tits-up but that made us think it'd be a good one to learn - people went mental for it!

We spent a good hour on it learning it in chunks, working out the stops and starts and putting the bits and pieces together, but still couldn't make it through the whole song in one go. It wasn't until the last run-through that we nailed it and even Lydia said it sounded really good. And she can't stand Metallica. I think we'll be playing it at out next gig (October 4th) and I'm really looking forward to it - we'll be playing a song by one of my favourite bands!

So after a tricky start we came away with four songs that should be gig ready after our next practise, which isn't bad. The most pleasing thing for me was that while it wasn't going well for a long time we all stayed cool, supported each other and there was no childish arguments, which a couple of months ago would've been par for the course. And because we all stayed cool we got something out of it, whereas before we'd have parted on bad terms and there would've been a barrage of accusing emails the next day. So three cheers for the new, all growed up Konar-T.

Get your green fix here

Wreaths are normally flowers and leaves woven into a circle and often laid on graves and memorials in memory of the dead. A small Christmas wreath hung years ago on the side of this huge barn could serve that purpose in recollecting what once went on in and around this huge dairy barn.

There is a lot to pore over in this photo. Long grounding lines snake down the roof from lightning rods, a broken covering now hangs uselessly from an opening in the haymow on the left and if you have good eyes, you might spot the large green lizard climbing the silo ladder.

Adding to a sense of desolation an old tractor is parked near the barn and everything in the photo speaks about a distant time when the main action of this farm took place in this magnificent barn. Even the sway in the middle of the barn roof is a quiet reminder that the strength of the barn itself is waning and will soon collapse. Unfortunately, in the cycle of life this barn will not be replaced by anything that resembles it.

(Photographed near Rush City, Minnesota)

Colours of the Shire.

The scene is a captivating tapestry of rural serenity and natural vitality, where the tender, verdant greens of new growth are illuminated in a warm, low-angled golden light. This soft glow infuses the landscape with an ethereal quality, enhancing the lush foliage that blankets the farmland, each leaf and blade seeming to drink in the sun's rich hue. Beyond the fields, gentle hills rise like guardians of the valley, clothed in the muted purples of moorland heather. Their cool, deep tones provide a harmonious contrast to the sunlit fields, their earthy richness grounding the scene in a sense of timelessness and wild beauty. The undulating layers of farmland, speckled with wildflowers and the occasional solitary tree, give a sense of depth and rhythm, as though the land itself is breathing. The overall effect is one of pastoral tranquillity, a reminder of nature's quiet strength and the regenerative promise of spring.

A beautiful day today all day, the colours were glowing, both the Autumn shades and the Winter Barley new growth. Just a tiny patch of clearing mist to add the icing to the cake.

A low resolution watermarked upload.

Copyright Terry Eve Photography October 2024

SN/NC: Portulaca Grandiflora, Portulacaceae Family

A beautiful pair of portulacas accompanying the pink, orange, yellow and wine colours -- also in the street as grounding plant carpet for the taller plants. But always nice, delicate, so beautiful -- and can still be used in salads (edible) and also medicinal (intestines problems). A truly beautiful low growing ground cover type plant is called the portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), or sometimes known as the sun rose or moss rose. Portulaca plants are native to Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. Portulaca flowers are easy to grow and enjoy.

Um lindo par de portulacas acompanhando as cores rosa, laranja, amarelo e vinho -- também na rua como tapete de plantas de aterramento para as plantas mais altas. Mas sempre agradável, delicado, tão bonito -- e ainda pode ser usado em saladas (comestíveis) e também medicinal (problemas intestinais). Uma planta de cobertura de solo de crescimento baixo verdadeiramente bela é chamada de portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), ou às vezes conhecida como rosa do sol ou rosa musgo. As plantas de portulaca são nativas do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai. As flores de portulaca são fáceis de cultivar e aproveitar.

Una hermosa pareja de portulacas que acompañan los colores rosa, naranja, amarillo y vino; también en la calle como una alfombra de plantas de base para las plantas más altas. Pero siempre lindas, delicadas, tan hermosas; y aún se pueden usar en ensaladas (comestibles) y también medicinales (problemas intestinales). Una planta de cobertura del suelo de crecimiento bajo verdaderamente hermosa se llama portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), o a veces conocida como rosa del sol o rosa musgosa. Las plantas de portulaca son nativas de Brasil, Argentina y Uruguay. Las flores de portulaca son fáciles de cultivar y disfrutar.

Une belle paire de pourpiers aux couleurs rose, orange, jaune et bordeaux – également dans la rue comme tapis végétal pour les plantes plus hautes. Mais toujours belle, délicate, si belle – et peut toujours être utilisée dans les salades (comestible) et aussi médicinale (problèmes intestinaux). Une très belle plante couvre-sol à croissance basse s'appelle le pourpier (Portulaca grandiflora), ou parfois connue sous le nom de rose soleil ou rose mousse. Les plantes de pourpier sont originaires du Brésil, d'Argentine et d'Uruguay. Les fleurs de pourpier sont faciles à cultiver et à apprécier.

Ein schönes Paar Portulakpflanzen, die die Farben Rosa, Orange, Gelb und Weinrot begleiten – auch auf der Straße als Bodendecker für die größeren Pflanzen. Aber immer schön, zart, so schön – und sie können immer noch in Salaten (essbar) und auch als Heilpflanze (bei Darmproblemen) verwendet werden. Eine wirklich schöne, niedrig wachsende Bodendeckerpflanze ist die Portulakpflanze (Portulaca grandiflora), die manchmal auch Sonnenrose oder Moosrose genannt wird. Portulakpflanzen sind in Brasilien, Argentinien und Uruguay heimisch. Portulakblüten sind leicht zu züchten und zu genießen.

Una bella coppia di portulache che accompagnano i colori rosa, arancione, giallo e vino, anche in strada come tappeto vegetale di base per le piante più alte. Ma sempre belle, delicate, così belle, e possono ancora essere utilizzate nelle insalate (commestibili) e anche medicinali (problemi intestinali). Una pianta di tipo tappezzante a crescita bassa davvero bella è chiamata portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), o talvolta conosciuta come rosa del sole o rosa muschio. Le piante di portulaca sono originarie del Brasile, dell'Argentina e dell'Uruguay. I fiori di portulaca sono facili da coltivare e da apprezzare.

Een prachtig paar portulaca's die de kleuren roze, oranje, geel en wijnrood vergezellen -- ook op straat als grondingsplantentapijt voor de hogere planten. Maar altijd mooi, delicaat, zo mooi -- en kan nog steeds worden gebruikt in salades (eetbaar) en ook medicinaal (darmproblemen). Een werkelijk prachtige laaggroeiende bodembedekker is de portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), of soms bekend als de zonneroos of mosroos. Portulacaplanten zijn afkomstig uit Brazilië, Argentinië en Uruguay. Portulacabloemen zijn gemakkelijk te kweken en te genieten.

زوج جميل من نباتات الرجلة يرافقه اللون الوردي والبرتقالي والأصفر والنبيذ - كما يمكن استخدامه في الشوارع كسجادة نباتية للنباتات الطويلة. لكنه لطيف وحساس وجميل للغاية - ولا يزال من الممكن استخدامه في السلطات (صالح للأكل) وأيضًا في العلاج (مشاكل الأمعاء). يُطلق على نبات الرجلة الجميل حقًا الذي ينمو على الأرض اسم الرجلة (Portulaca grandiflora)، أو يُعرف أحيانًا باسم وردة الشمس أو وردة الطحلب. نباتات الرجلة موطنها البرازيل والأرجنتين وأوروجواي. أزهار الرجلة سهلة النمو والاستمتاع بها.

ピンク、オレンジ、黄色、ワイン色の美しいポーチュラカのペア。背の高い植物のグランド カーペットとして街路にも植えられています。しかし、常に上品で繊細でとても美しいです。サラダ (食用) や薬用 (腸の問題) にも使用できます。本当に美しい低木地被植物はポーチュラカ (Portulaca grandiflora) と呼ばれ、サン ローズやモス ローズとも呼ばれます。ポーチュラカの植物はブラジル、アルゼンチン、ウルグアイ原産です。ポーチュラカの花は育てやすく、楽しむのも簡単です。ポーチュラカの手入れに必要なものを見てみましょう。

Watching the storm gather on the opposite bank of Issyk Kul lake, while soaked in the final, warm rays of the setting sun. Simple, grounding, and unforgettable.

Here's a bus grinding (or perhaps grounding) to a halt inside a car forest located in the distant desert sands of Nevada. This was the first location we hit on our first night out west. Great skies provided interesting backdrops in nearly all directions. After a few hours the clouds moved out, the moon began to set and we made our way to the motel to rest up for our next adventure. www.capenightphotography.com

In a world where AI feeds our desire for instant gratification as soon as we have a thought or need, it is grounding and humbling to walk in a place that is impervious to the wishes of man. Created by time and the most natural of elements, water and earth, a beauty emerges that is wondrous in its impossibility. Man's interference is not welcome or wanted here. Here patience is respected. The Navajo understood the sacredness of this space, knowing that there are things larger and greater than themselves.