View allAll Photos Tagged Prioritize
The First United Methodist Church of Crockett, Texas is located at 701 East Goliad Avenue, two blocks east of the historic town center and the Houston County Courthouse. The site-fired brick church was built according to plans drawn by Richard C. Cassidy, and includes nineteen stained-glass windows fabricated in Bavaria. The church, completed in 1902 (with subsequent additions) occupies the original site purchased by the congregation in 1858 and represents the town's oldest continuing congregation. The site and church have been continuously occupied by the Methodist Church. The First United Methodist Church building is most closely associated with the Gothic Revival architectural style, but is more specifically an exemplar of the Neomedieval Auditorium Church, a typology identified by religion scholar Jeanne Halgren Kilde in 2002.
This Neomedieval Auditorium model of church architecture was popular among Evangelical Protestant congregations at the turn of the twentieth century, and is commonly found in the American south; its formal development was a direct result of various trends in theology, ecclesiology, mission, and social identity. Typically, the Neomedieval Auditorium church exterior recalls medieval revival styles, often loosely adapted from the Gothic Revival or Romanesque Revival, with emphasis on revived monumental proportions, ornament, and siting. The Neomedieval Auditorium church interior often does not follow a typical medieval cruciform plan, but rather is organized as an auditorium that prioritizes clear sight-lines, good acoustics, and a sense of unity.
The First United Methodist Church was determined to be eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on March 21, 2011 in the area of Architecture, as an excellent example of an intact Gothic Revival church, and more speciflcally as an exemplar of the Neomedieval Auditorium Church type. All of the information above was found on the original documents submitted for listing consideration along with much, much more. All of these documents can be viewed here:
catalog.archives.gov/id/40972612
Three bracketed photos were taken with a handheld Nikon D7200 and combined with Photomatix Pro to create this HDR image. Additional adjustments were made in Photoshop CS6.
"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~Jeremiah 29:11
The best way to view my photostream is through Flickriver with the following link: www.flickriver.com/photos/photojourney57/
Irish did me, so i had to do him. He didn't ask me to do him, but i couldn't resist. Irish, you are ridiculously adorable and such an inspiration. your honesty and openness to very touchy topics is amazing and admirable. i commend you and thank you. cheers!!! :)
This shot was actually very challenging for many reasons. The biggest reason being that i am left handed and had a lot of trouble holding that pen in my right hand in a way that appeared believable.
so here goes:
secret #1 and only (as i am not in the "secrets" group)
i am a HUGE procrastinator!! it's not just the typical "oh i'll get to that" like most people have. it's much worse. it has gotten even worse w/in the last year and i'm getting a little frightened to be honest. i hate to admit it, but since this is my "secret" shot...i have mail that i haven't opened (bills), phone calls i still haven't returned from months ago, email i haven't answered, gifts i haven't gotten/sent, photos for jobs i haven't edited, painting jobs i haven't finished, etc. the list goes on and on and on. it's becoming a big ball of fear and i just avoid it all by not thinking about it. ever. it's not good and i don't like it at all. no one knows quite how bad it is (well, except for all of you now).
As silly as this shot was to do and the whole copy cat idea, it's gotten me thinking. Admitting it by typing it here and announcing to all of flickr that i have a problem is going to be the first step in my recovery. I need to get my act together fast. I need to stop taking on things when i know i already have enough going on. I need to prioritize and get done what i've committed to do. i need to open my mail, my voice mail, and respond to the unanswered emails. little by little, i need to chip away at this.
oh crap!! i gotta go! i'm getting my taxes done in a few mintues!! seriously! i procrastinated til today!! aaarhrrgggghh!!
(so here's the "irish" part): how about you? what do you need to change about yourself? any other procrastinators out there? i want to hear your stories.
At the gates of Reffen, Copenhagen’s vibrant street food haven, a message rises from repurposed containers, simple, bold, and full of promise. I want to believe these young people are trendsetters, offering a glimpse of a more sustainable, communal tomorrow. Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities 🚲. It boasts over 390 km (242 miles) of dedicated bike lanes, most of them separated from car traffic for safety. More than 40% of residents commute by bike daily, even in winter (same for me here in Berlin, by the way!). Urban planning prioritizes cycling, with green wave traffic lights that let riders glide smoothly through intersections. #GreenCity #WonderfulCopenhagen
23250 McKay Avenue
Maple Ridge, BC Canada
A Harbour Authority (HA) is a non-profit, locally controlled organization which operates under a head lease with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to operate and maintain a DFO-owned public commercial fishing harbour in the best interests of the commercial fishing fleet.
The harbour facility consists entirely of the property and water lots under the ownership of DFO – Small Craft Harbours (SCH).
An HA must operate the harbour as a public facility in accordance with the terms of the head lease and must at all times prioritize the needs of the commercial fishing industry above all else
Image best viewed in large screen.
Thank-you for your visit, and any comments or faves are always very much appreciated! ~Sonja.
First, I will prioritize Japanese and English, and release my novel, B♭ (B-flat).
It is available in the Drive below.
Drive folder for novel publication:
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
A North Korean cryptocurrency system is hacked.Hundreds of millions of dollars disappear.
At the end of that invisible flow of money, a group of Palestinian men and women from Gaza secretly enters the United States.
Their purpose is not merely revenge.They intend to “recreate” the lost homeland of Gaza on American soil.
Hardline immigration policies.A nation divided by fear and resentment.A society already beginning to fracture from within.
Using all of it, a silent plan moves forward.
During a speech, Republican presidential candidate Justin Bradford is shot.At almost the same moment in Los Angeles, former President Owen Reed is also attacked at a campaign event for Democratic candidate Ryan Bennett.
Two gunshots.One divided nation.
But Justin survives.
His life is saved by an extraordinarily rare blood type: Bombay blood.The only person able to provide it is Anaya Patel, a community art facilitator working in Brooklyn.
One woman’s blood touches the fate of a nation.What seemed like coincidence slowly begins to draw her into the center of a much larger design.
Terror.Election politics.Immigration.Memory.Blood.Prayer.
A plan born from revenge begins to blur the line between justice and emptiness, salvation and hatred.
Some still believe the wounded world deserves punishment.Others begin to understand that beyond that punishment, nothing may remain.
The lights of Manhattan.The silence of Brooklyn.Memories left beside the river.
The city keeps shining as if nothing has happened.But beneath its streets, a low sound continues to resonate — unheard, unresolved, unforgettable.
What does revenge take from us?Whom can prayer save?And where do we go, carrying everything we have lost?
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
No part of this work may be reproduced, distributed, modified, or transmitted without permission from the author.
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僕はまず、日本語と英語を優先して、僕の小説、【B♭（ビーフラット）】を公開しました。
それは以下のドライブにあります。
Drive folder for novel publication: (小説専門の公開用ドライブ)
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
北朝鮮の仮想通貨システムがハッキングされ、数億ドルが奪取された。
その資金の流れの先で、ガザ出身のパレスチナ男女のグループが、密かにアメリカ合衆国へ潜入する。
彼らの目的は、失われた祖国ガザを、アメリカの地に「復元」することだった。
共和党による強硬な移民政策。
国内にくすぶる排外感情。
分断されていく社会。
そのすべてを利用し、アメリカを内側から崩壊させる計画が、静かに進行していく。
共和党大統領候補ジャスティン・ブラッドフォードが演説中に撃たれ、ほぼ同じ時刻、ロサンゼルスでは前大統領オーウェン・リードもまた銃撃される。
国家を二分する、ふたつの銃声。
だが、ジャスティンは奇跡的に生還する。
彼の命をつないだのは、世界でも極めて希少な血液型――ボンベイブラッド。
その血を提供できたのは、ブルックリンで活動するコミュニティアート・ファシリテーター、アナヤ・パテルだった。
ひとりの女性の血が、国家の運命に触れてしまう。
その偶然は、やがて偶然ではなかったかのように、彼女自身を巨大な事件の中心へ引き寄せていく。
テロ、選挙、移民、血、記憶、祈り。
破壊を信じる者と、破壊の果てに残る空虚を見てしまう者。
復讐として始まった計画は、いつしか救済と虚無の境界を曖昧にしていく。
マンハッタンの夜。
ブルックリンの光。
川辺に残された記憶。
都市は何事もなかったかのように輝き続けている。
だがその足元では、誰にも聞こえない低い音が鳴っている。
復讐は、何を奪うのか。
祈りは、誰を救うのか。
そして人は、失われたものを抱えたまま、どこへ向かうのか。
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
本作品の著作権は Mitsushiro Nakagawa に帰属します。内容の全部または一部を、著者の許可なく複製・転載・改変することを禁じます。
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Another image captured by smartphone. However, unlike previous one that was edited by Snapseed app on the phone.
This image was post-processed via Lightroom. High Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder in Ontario, boasting five stunning waterfalls including Pott’s Falls, Muskoka Canyon Falls, Little High Falls, Big High Falls, and a man-made waterfall for High Falls Water Park. With wheelchair accessibility in much of the site, it’s a great spot to stop and take in the view along the Trans-Canada Trail System. Capture stunning photos of High Falls and the smaller Little High Falls, following hiking trail signs to discover both. However, always exercise caution and prioritize safety when exploring near the rushing waterfalls and rocky surfaces.
I am 42 today and considering my life. I was born in a hospital in Lae, Papua New Guinea, on this day in 1966. 2nd daughter to missionary parents. I spent the first eight years of my life there in PNG. It was a wonderful beginning. The middle was kind of rough, but it is improving every day!
Perhaps it is kind of silly to ask “Who am I?” at my age, but today this is what I did. -- Melody
I AM
I am a step-mother and a mother, hopelessly lost some days
because I wasn’t parented that well.
I have no compass.
I soak up ideas and solutions from others, mostly my friends, because I am afraid I will “mess up” my children. (Yes, the way I was messed up.)
I am fearful and insecure; in my core believing that I am a screw-up, a loser, a horrible friend, and an even worse mother. I am the worst in-law, daughter, sister or friend
anyone could want (except I don’t nag or bother, rather the other end of the spectrum.
I simply act like others aren’t there.)
I am an alcoholic and a child of an alcoholic
and this affects every single thought and decision that I make.
I am a writer, a thinker, a philosopher.
I make things like photographs, and gardens, and poems, and that makes me happy.
I love to share these things with others.
I am spiritual, preferring old thoughts and music to anything contemporary or new.
I am not religious, or even very faithful. But I do believe in Jesus. And I try very hard! Perhaps that is my problem …. I try. I don’t understand Grace, not really.
So on those days when my unbelief overwhelms, I entertain thoughts that can be desperate and decidedly unfaithful.
I do not let go …. I want and I need to be in control at all times,
about everything, in every way. When I am not, I feel I have failed.
Losing control personally, emotionally, mentally is one of my worst crimes.
Don’t get me wrong, I know I am not all bad.
I am thoughtful. I am usually open and honest with others, when asked.
I take risks and try new things.
I love competition! Sports (watching), playing certain games, setting personal goals. But I'm afraid I get too into it, and at times it's not so pretty.
A long time ago, when I worked full-time, I was a visionary, a pioneer, a competent person, a leader. I was loyal and capable. I accomplished a lot.
Surely, I am still those things.
I embrace and actually love cultures other than my own,
soaking up the ideas, art, food, and music through books, travel and most of all friendship with those who are unlike me.
I usually help others as I see their needs.
I cook well, even better than well. I am a great cook.
My family & friends are well fed.
I organize & prioritize my children’s lives well, putting their needs first,
advocating and challenging others about my children’s needs.
I encourage others.
(At least when I am not selfishly thinking about myself.)
I want some day to know myself well enough
that I can speak out, act, embrace, find and give all that live has to offer!
I want some day to be able to laugh, and cry, and feel
the spectrum of emotions found on that damn feeling wheel!
What might you not know about me?
I’m addicted to coffee. Seriously it’s a physical and psychological thing
and if I don’t have it, I might just come unhinged.
Of course being an alcoholic, I don’t drink.
But I do smoke and I know it’s a slow form of suicide. I don’t do it lightly (almost every cigarette comes with lucid acknowledgement of the consequence.)
but I definitely cannot quit at this time.
I love to exercise and eat well, but I don’t (usually.)
I play music every day; all kinds and it is life-giving.
I am diagnosed with major depressive disorder, which means in layman’s terms:
I have a propensity for melancholia and if I don’t manage it, it will come back. At its worst this type of depression is like drowning in your worst nightmare,
a stinking, dark hellish place to reside. Where truth becomes lies, and lies truth. You are incapable of doing, feeling, thinking, reading, sometimes even breathing.
Thankfully I've been depression-free for almost two years.
[I may regret saying this, but you have an open invitation to ask me if
I am exercising & eating,because these are the first disciplines to go. Also, if you haven’t seen me in a while, it can be a bad sign because I begin to isolate.]
Depression, alcoholism, insecurity, damage,
they are not my complete story,
my story is just starting.
I believe God brought into my life the perfect person for me; he loves me by asking hard questions, telling me the truth about myself which usually means “good stuff” but sometimes even hard truths. He encourages my passions and interests, supports them as well, which is no small thing in this financial climate.
He is a warrior on my behalf
and I love him more than I have shown him or will ever be capable of showing.
People have described me as aloof and private, which I am
but mostly because I am shy and those demons of insecurity are playing out in my head
more often than I would like to admit.
I am creative, intuitive, capable, kind, thoughtful, deep, at times extremely selfish & critical of others, but mostly about my ideas and my time.
My critical spirit, my insecurities, can and do hurt those I love and it is one of my deepest regrets; an Achilles heal.
I am passionate and always reading & thinking about things that are important to me, but I often fail at finishing and carrying them out. Books lay around unread, photographs unprinted, my book of poetry sits unfinished, and commitments become a burden, as I selfishly move on to something new.
I need community, long for it, work to develop it,
but most times I fall short through my own weaknesses and broken heart.
You can be confident that I want to know you, be in your life, especially if I have told you, but my stupid **** keeps me entangled at times.
All in all, I would say I am a good person.
As I learn what it means to be a child of an alcoholic I can acknowledge
that I am still growing up, even at 42;
still learning and discovering who I am
and how I want to live.
I am slowing waking up – from a life-draining,
sad, lonely, scared and cold childhood.
All in all, I am blessed beyond belief – with great love, friendship, abundance, talents and so much more.
I acknowledge that, even while I ache with the painful knowledge that I cannot fully embrace my life – yet – due to all of the above.
The most important thing people may not know about me
is that HOPE is the central thing of importance in my life.
If I have even a tiny inkling of hope – a belief, a dream
or something to hope for, I can put all of this aside. (Okay, not totally of course.)
Although this list isn’t complete,
(how could a perfectionist “complete” a list)
it is all true, as I know myself, today on my forty-second birthday, 2008.
Thanks for being a friend, getting involved in my messy life. Keep hanging in there, because I believe it's on an upward curve and I am hopeful about the future.
This email requires no reply. It is simply a record of my thoughts, and perhaps will give you a glimpse at the ME I let very few in to see. You do not, should not, feel an obligation to reply.
September 24, 2008
Melody Hanson
I've had enough of this Two-Horse town. Time to mosey on back home to the suburbs.
My rental car did me well. 60mpg and just over 1000 miles in 4 days.
Yeeeeeehaw!!!!!!!
Only owners of a Prius can use this shot as their background. It won't work for anyone else.
Sorry for not commenting lately. Been on travel and plenty of other things going on. I'll get back to ya, you know that. Just need to prioritize and keep smiling.
Captured through an urban frame, this image showcases a quiet moment in Christiania. The freetown’s history is rooted in squatters reclaiming abandoned military barracks, evolving into a community prioritizing collective living and artistic expression. This street photography attempts to capture the layered textures of the area – from the vibrant graffiti adorning the walls to the unexpected sight of books for sale amidst this unconventional setting.
The Red Thread
In Swedish, the expression ”den röda tråden”, which means ”the red thread”, is used much like the English expression ”the common thread” - it describes a recurring theme or characteristic, or sometimes a guiding principle. The same expression is used in German: ”der rote Faden”. Maybe it exists in other languages too.
When I began thinking about this week’s Self Portrait Sunday theme, ”the red thread” came to mind. Over the last years, following the red thread has sort of become my theme song. I try to focus as much as I can on things that are really important to me personally, which to a great extent means working on developing my talents. I get better and better on prioritizing this over caring about what others might think, and over conventional notions and ideas on what constitutes a socially acceptable lifestyle. In short, I am trying my best to follow my red thread, even on days that it might seem hopelessly tangled. I detangle it bit by bit, and it makes my heart sing.
The brand-new Alstom-built X’trapolis train, part of Ireland’s innovative DART+ fleet, captured at the Fairview DART depot. This sleek, green train, adorned with a distinctive orange and white livery, represents the latest addition to Irish Rail’s efforts to modernize its commuter services. As of now, two sets of these advanced trains have been delivered and are undergoing extensive testing to ensure they meet the high standards required for passenger service. The X’trapolis design, known for its efficiency and modern amenities, is set to enhance the commuting experience across the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) network.
Alstom’s X’trapolis trains are renowned for their cutting-edge technology and passenger-focused features. These electric multiple units offer improved energy efficiency, spacious interiors, and enhanced accessibility, making them ideal for the busy routes of the DART+ expansion. The new fleet is part of a broader initiative by Irish Rail to upgrade its infrastructure and increase capacity, responding to the growing demand for reliable public transportation in the Dublin region. With a design that prioritizes sustainability and comfort, the X’trapolis trains are equipped with advanced systems for smoother operations and reduced environmental impact.
The DART+ project marks a significant milestone for Irish Rail, aiming to extend and electrify the existing DART network to serve more communities across the Greater Dublin Area. The introduction of the X’trapolis trains is a key component of this transformation, promising faster, more frequent services and improved connectivity. As testing continues at the Fairview depot, these trains are poised to play a central role in shaping the future of rail travel in Ireland, reflecting a commitment to innovation and sustainability in the country’s transportation sector.
SS Maasdam (1952–1968): Known as one of the "Economy Twins" alongside its sister ship, the Rijndam, it was designed to prioritize tourist-class passengers over luxury first-class travel. In 1962, it notably transported Lee Harvey Oswald and his wife from Europe to the United States. It was sold to Polish Ocean Lines in 1968 and renamed the Stefan Batory, serving until 1988.
Prompt: Use Image 1 as the Base reference of the TSS Maasdam ocean liner. Create a digital fine art, ultra-realistic depiction of the same ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean in rough seas at sunset. Preserve the ship’s exact structure, proportions, hull lines, superstructure layout, funnels, masts, and historical details from Image 1 with no redesign or modernization. The camera is an ultra-wide lens, low and forward-facing, showing the full length of the vessel from a slight bow-quarter angle as it cuts through powerful waves; white spray and foam crash against the hull. On the bow, clearly render the ship’s name “MAASDAM” in period-accurate lettering, sharp and readable. Lighting is dramatic sunset: breaking through heavy clouds, with cool blue shadows in the sea, realistic reflections on painted steel, and physically correct highlights. The ocean appears dark, textured, and turbulent, with large rolling swells. Style is photographic realism blended with museum-quality digital fine art. Output a single image, horizontal aspect ratio, ultra-wide composition, true 4K resolution. No noise, no grain, no artifacts, no watermarks, no text overlays. Ensure clean edges, consistent perspective, accurate scale, natural motion, and realism at 200% zoom.
This digital fine art was created using Nano Banana AI and Photoshop
Sunday morning at 8:59 am in the month of May 19.2013. In the city of Surabaya when this photo was taken. Not many wonderful sights in the city of Surabaya only story buildings crammed in every corner of the city.
I just drove old Japanese cars as they circled the city of Surabaya, because at that time my husband had an appointment with the client to plan a project. There I took part, who knows there are beautiful moments to capture in a photo.
My husband and I did not mind so glad I joined, because it can give a little input in determining any idea. In traveling around takes approximately 2 hours I reached the destination.
On the way there are many buildings in the city of Surabaya but only one building with stylish modern architecture facade design using vertical garden system.
This building is an office and do not need to mention because I smelled ads .... hehehehe.
Location of this building right in the middle of a very strategic area, and from any angle looks beautiful in look and very attractive. I first saw this building is very different from the others, because it prioritizes the park although I have seen not so wide to build the park. Maybe the garden vertical garden system is formed, because the narrowness of the land and may again trend today.
After the shots I can directly proceed because I had started to drizzle.
Thank you to all flickr friends who many give support , and I really appreciate your time .
Once again thank you very much . Have a wonderful day with camera .
Take care ! ! ! ! "
* * * Copyright ©
All of which include an image is copyrighted, with all rights reserved please do not use, copy or edit any images without written permission from me Shantyrof (the rightful owner). If you want to use these photos please contact my email address: shanty_rof@yahoo.com
Tomato…
It is always time to eat healthy, even though fresh produce is getting expensive. The health benefits will pay huge dividends in the long run. Prioritizing nutritious foods can lead to increased energy levels, a stronger immune system, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. While budget constraints may pose a challenge, there are affordable ways to incorporate healthy options into your diet. Consider seasonal produce, which is often more cost-effective, and explore budget-friendly staples like beans, lentils, and whole grains. Preparing meals at home also allows for greater control over ingredients and portion sizes, potentially saving money in the long run. Remember, small, consistent healthy choices can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.
Thank you for visiting for marking my photo as a favourite and for the kind comments,
Please do not copy my image or use it on websites, blogs or other media without my express permission.
© NICK MUNROE (MUNROE PHOTOGRAPHY)
You can contact me
by email @
karenick23@yahoo.ca
munroephotographic@gmail.com
munroedesignsphotography@gmail.com
or on Facebook @
www.facebook.com/MunroePhotography/
On Instagram
Another Friday spent along the rails of Cape Cod did not disappoint.
My main goal was to photograph newly repainted FL9 2011 which I did and then I had planned to again photograph the meet and swap with the northbound energy train. But those plans got changed when Mass Coastal train MC2 was unexpectedly thrown into the mix. They came down from Rochester with a string of empty C&D gons for Cassova at Otis which they were going to swap out with loads before heading back north to Rochester and on to Wareham.
They had to hold the main here at Taylor for a bit waiting for Cape Cod Central passenger train to finish up their station work and clear up the single track there. With the excursion train safely tucked in the siding here at MP 54.9 on the MassDOT owned and Mass Coastal operated former New Haven Cape Mainline, MC2 is pulling south.
Leading the way is MC 2008, a GP9RM blt. Apr. 1956 as CN 2020. On the south end of the passenger train is MC2009, a rare model GP28 built by EMD in Nov. 1964 for the Illinois Central as their #9439. Only 31 of the 1800 hp units were built and only 16 of those were for US roads.
Once the bridge is lowered the 2008 will head south toward the Falmouth Branch and on to Otis meeting the waiting energy train at Canal Jct. The latter will use the same bridge closing to scoot back here and hold the main for a meet and crew swap with the passenger consist before they each then head on their respective ways to Seamass and back down to the station.
For a small little shortline it sure got busy here for a moment requiring some decisions on what I wanted to prioritizing shooting. Not a bad problem to have!
Wareham, Massachusetts
Friday September 15, 2023
I haven't prioritized birding at all this winter season. That's easier to do when it's extremely cold -which is what we've had for most of February. But on Sunday, we hit 49ºF and it felt like spring! Over the weekend I FINALLY saw new species for the year, including Northern Shrike, Belted Kingfisher, Wilson's Snipe, and Hooded Merganser. This hoodie had caught a fish and swam a little closer to me because another one was trying to grab it away from him. Hennepin County, MN 02/23/25
(Charadrius cucullatus)
Two Tree Point - Bruny Island -Tasmania
Austrália
This was the first species I saw and photographed in Tasmania. I expected to find it, but I was pretty sure it’d be harder to spot.
Our trip from Brisbane to Hobart wasn’t exactly smooth. A few weeks after buying the tickets, I got the lovely message: “Your upcoming flight with Rex has been cancelled as a result of Rex’s Voluntary Administration.”
But hey, at least they offered a free ticket with Virgin Australia. So generous, right?
But, after VA totally "forgot" about me for more than 2 months, I finally managed to get a ticket. The catch? Instead of landing in Hobart around noon, as planned, our new arrival time was 5:10 PM.
Problem: the last ferry to Bruny Island leaves at 7 PM. In theory, we could make it, but only if there were no delays and everything—waiting for luggage, picking up the car—went perfectly smooth.
We thought about changing our Bruny Island dates, but accommodation prices had tripled since I’d booked. So, we decided to take our chances.
Oh, and by the way, when we were at O'Reilly's, someone casually mentioned that 40 minutes was enough to get from the airport to the ferry. Spoiler: it's not.
The flight landed on time, but the luggage took forever. So, I went to pick up the rental car while Nita waited for the bags. Conveniently, when we walked past the rental desk earlier, it was empty. Now? Both employees were busy with customers who seemed in no rush to finish their endless questions and conversations.
With the clock reminding me of my ever-shrinking buffer, I started to stress out. Finally, one employee became available—but, of course, she had to make an urgent phone call. That’s when I stepped in and explained my situation. Thankfully, she was kind enough to prioritize my reservation.
Once we got the car, Google Maps told me the ETA to the ferry was 6:43 PM. Okay, doable—assuming nothing went wrong. Sticking to the speed limit (thanks to cruise control), I resisted the temptation to put the pedal to the metal.
Crossing the Hobart Bridge was... an experience. I was in the center lane, with traffic coming toward me on the other side, separated by absolutely nothing. All I could think about was how one distracted driver in the two lanes on my left could send me flying into oncoming traffic. But hey, all went well.
Honestly, Aussie drivers seem incredibly careful and disciplined—they don’t stray an inch from their lanes. I can only imagine the nightmare it must be for them to drive where I am used to drive!
We got to the ferry exactly at 6:43 PM, as predicted. My wife, who has an intense fear of being stopped at Australian airports for carrying food (fruit is a big no-no), decided this was a great time for me to grab something to eat and drink at the café near the dock. Problem: it closes at 4 PM.
Alright, no worries—we'll just grab something on the island.
When we disembarked, there was a sign that should’ve made us pause: "Next service station: Adventure Bay (40 km)". No big deal, though—that’s exactly where we were headed, and we had plenty of fuel.
The drive was lovely, but not a single café or supermarket was open along the way. We stopped briefly to admire the stunning view at The Neck, then continued on. Once we reached Adventure Bay, we quickly found our accommodation. Feeling optimistic, we decided to head to the service station to grab some food.
But… surprise! No supermarket, no gas station, no café was open. The café/restaurant looked like it might be, but as soon as I tried to open the door, they switched off the lights.
The result? We were going to bed hungry. All we had were two yogurts from the fridge in our accommodation and, thankfully, some coffee. Not exactly the feast we were hoping for!
It was 8 PM, I was starving, and there was still some daylight left. Way too early to head to bed. So, I grabbed my camera and went down to the beach right in front of us. And… to my absolute delight, there it was—a Hooded Plover! The light was fading fast, but who cares? Who knows when I’d spot another one of these again?
Not long after, I saw a second one as well a pair of Pacific Gulls and a Pied Oystercatcher (all lifers for me). Suddenly, hunger? Gone. Completely cured.
Now, full disclosure: I ended up deleting all those photos. But at the time, it felt like an elixir for my empty stomach.
This shot? I took it the next day. Turns out, I’d see these birds every single day. They were super tame and gave us plenty of chances for some great photos.
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All my photos are now organized into sets by the country where they were taken, by taxonomic order, by family, by species (often with just one photo for the rarer ones), and by the date they were taken.
So, you may find:
- All the photos for this trip Austrália (2024) (309)
- All the photos for this order CHARADRIIFORMES (1170)
- All the photos for this family Charadriidae (Caradriídeos) (182)
- All the photos for this species Charadrius cucullatus (5)
- All the photos taken this day 2024/11/21 (23)
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The Chinese bridge in the gardens of Eutin Castle in the district town of Eutin, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
Some background information:
The origins of the gardens of Eutin Castle date back to around the year 1500. By 1716, in line with the spirit of the time, luxurious French Baroque gardens were created. They were redesigned in the French style, becoming one of the largest Baroque gardens in the region alongside the gardens of Gottorf Castle. It was in this park in 1739 that Sophie Auguste Friederike of Anhalt-Zerbst, the niece of Friedrich August I and the future Russian czarina Catherine the Great, first met her unloved husband Karl Peter Ulrich of Holstein-Gottorf, the later Russian short-term czar Peter III.
However, just 60 years later, a major transformation and expansion began, turning it into an English landscape garden, which was becoming fashionable at the time – with numerous special trees from all over the world, winding paths, small temples, a waterfall, a Chinese bridge, and romantic vistas of the lake. The gardens have remained almost unchanged to this day, with the trees now having grown into magnificent giants. In a separate area, there is also a kitchen garden with an orangery. Today, the garden is a protected monument, recognized as one of the most significant garden art works in northern Germany.
Eutin Castle is a palace in the town of Eutin in the north German district of Eastern Holstein. It is both Eutin‘s cultural centre and nucleus. Taken together, this castle, Gottorf Castle and Glücksburg Castle form the most important group of courtly secular buildings in the Northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein.
Eutin Castle traces its origins to the bishop's manor of Gerold of Oldenburg. In 1156, he received these lands as a gift from the Adolf II, Count of Schauenburg and Holstein, who was also the founder of the city of Lübeck. The estate was expanded under Bishop Johannes of Tralau between 1260 and 1275, receiving a larger stone structure that now forms the core of the castle’s east wing. In 1293, the first castle chapel was built.
Little is known about the original design of the castle. It was likely a simple fortification of the time, surrounded by walls, with separate buildings that prioritized functionality over appearance. From 1277 to 1283 and again between 1299 and 1317, Bishop Burkhard of Serkem faced renewed disputes with Lübeck. As a result, the castle was expanded into a small fortress and was reinforced with a moat under his successors around 1350. From 1439 to 1486, additional structures were built in phases, including the core of the present gate tower. By the 16th century, the individual buildings had been joined together to form a modest Renaissance castle, giving rise to today’s irregular floor plan, particularly on the city-facing front side.
With the Reformation, the dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf gained control of Eutin in 1586 and provided the Prince-Bishops. During the Thirty Years’ War, the bishopric faced the threat of secularization, but Johann X, at that time prince-bishop of Lübeck, managed to prevent this by securing the prince-bishopric’s connection to the House of Gottorf. This alliance, however, caused ongoing conflicts with the Danish monarchy, culminating in 1705 with a Danish occupation and partial destruction of the castle. However, in 1689, both castle and town had already suffered significant damage due to a fire.
The palace reached its peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. Between the reigns of Christian August and Friedrich August I, it transformed into a Baroque princely court, and Eutin became a social center in the region. During this time, significant extensions were made to the castle, its interiors, and the gardens. Eutin became one of the few grand Baroque residences in Schleswig and Holstein. These works were overseen by the Swedish-Pomeranian court architect Rudolph Matthias Dallin from 1717 to 1727. Plans for an extensive reconstruction of the castle were considered but never realized due to financial constraints.
In 1773, the Lübeck Prince-Bishops gained the rank and title of Duke of Oldenburg due to the unification of their territory with Oldenburg and Delmenhorst under the Treaty of Zarskoje Selo. Friedrich August ruled from Eutin until his death in 1785. Following the secularization of the Bishopric of Lübeck in 1803, his successors moved their residence to Oldenburg Castle. Eutin, now part of an Oldenburg exclave, was used only as a summer residence but retained its prominence. During this time, the outdated Baroque garden was transformed into a modern landscape park.
In the early 19th century, Eutin earned the reputation of being the "Weimar of the North," thanks to the influence of artists like Johann Heinrich Wilhelm Tischbein, Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock, and Franz Anton von Weber, supported by the patronage of Duke Peter I. Around 1820, plans were made to redesign the outer castle courtyard in a Neoclassical style. The old courtyard was demolished, and an open palace square was created in 1828. But also the castle itself was given a Neoclassical interior makeover and an additional floor by 1845.
Until the abdication of Friedrich August II in 1918, Eutin remained a regular summer residence for the ducal family. After the abdication, the castle was no longer inhabited, and a museum was established within its walls. Both the city and the castle survived both World Wars unscathed. Toward the end of World War II, a wave of refugees from the eastern territories of Germany arrived, and the empty castle was repurposed as a refugee camp. At times, hundreds of people lived in the castle under dire conditions, with only four toilets in the entire building.
After extensive restoration, the castle was partially reopened to the public in 1957. It was also used as a filming location for parts of the 1972 movie "Cabaret" starring Liza Minnelli. Further renovations became necessary in the 1980s, with financial support from the state and federal government. In 1992, the ducal family transferred the castle and gardens to the newly established Eutin Castle Foundation. With the mission to preserve, open, and present the castle and its gardens, funded by state grants and self-generated income, the foundation also promotes education, research, and documentation.
Eutin is the capital of the Northern German district of Eastern Holstein in thd German state of Schleswig-Holstein. The town has about 17,300 inhabitants, is located about 40 km (25 miles) north of the city of Lübeck and nestles between three lakes: the Great Eutiner Lake, the Small Eutiner Lake and the Sibbersdorfer Lake. Eutin is the birthplace of the famous composer and pianist Carl Maria von Weber, who was born there in 1786.
In the 7th century, a settlement was founded by the Slavic Obotrites tribe that built a wooden castle on Pheasant Island in the Great Eutiner Lake. The Obotrites named their new village "Utin". In the 12th century, the settlement was populated by Dutch settlers and already in 1156, Eutin became a market town. Eutin’s further history is closely related to the one of its castle.
Every year, Eutin hosts two festivals: the Eutiner Festspiele in summer, where operas are performed in an open-air theatre in the gardens of Eutin Castle, and the Blues Fesitival in spring, which takes place in the town centre. Due to its proximity to the Baltic Sea resorts along the Bay of Lübeck, which have seen increased demand partly due to the trend toward domestic tourism, Eutin has also come into focus for the tourism industry in recent years.
- Plautus.
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One thing you have to understand about Southern California is that if you invite people to visit, they are showing up. We lived in Boston, NYC, Pittsburgh, and San Jose and often invited people to visit but seldom got any visitors. But every person we invited while living SoCal ended up visiting us. My hunch is that it has something to do with the weather. But the best part about living in LA was the sheer number of world-class locations that you can visit.
When my family visited us in the summer of 2016, we took off on an extended guided tour of the American southwest. One of the stops during the trip was the stunning Horseshoe Bend, where we spend a very colorful sunset. This trip was a bit different than our usual trips because a lot of the trip planning prioritized the availability of hotel rooms over golden hours at interesting locations. But eventually, the sheer size of southwest caught up to us, and it resulted in us being at horseshoe bend around sunset. So we decided to hang out till unset and get dinner from McDonald's.
The decision proved to be one of the best, and I got to see the most colorful sunsets at this location. I completely forgot about this image being in my family trip folder until I was backing up the folder yesterday. What great little surprise.
Excerpt from Burlington Waterfront Sculpture Trail brochure:
11 Incidental Abode by Sandra Crisante
Colourful florals contrast subdued factories forging a balance between the natural and industrial environment. A bird is left to fend for itself and nest in a harsh and inhospitable environment. It is a critical look at the world around us, the true cost of what we are prioritizing and the fallout.
It's March and I finally have the opportunity to do some landscape photography. All of you with newborn toddlers understand how difficult it can be to find time on your own and when the opportunity arises really prioritize the time to something other than their child ...: D
But this time I was able to go out in the nearby nature reserve "Norra järvafältet" and explore the woods. I then found this fallen pine, which was surrounded by a green floor of forest beauty. I couldn't resist seeing if there was a composition among all this beauty. Finally, I found a composition where an old path curled up next to a beautiful pine tree. I composed the picture so that the path looks like it starts at the shattered and fallen tree. The two parts of the image form an S curve that guides you through the image. I call the image "Broken path" and I hope you like it.
Additional information and Gear used
This photo was taken with my Nikon Z6 and Nikkor Z 14-30 f4 S lens. For more information about me and my photography please visit my website at www.andreaslarzon.com
You can follow me on Instagram at: @andreaslarzonphoto
Interrested to know what gear i use for landscape photography? Have a look at MY GEAR list on my website.
Interrested in buying a print?
If you want to support my photography and buy one of my prints please visit my gallery at Printler.com. If you can't find the print you looking for please contact me either through my website or here at flickr.
Code of Conduct for Nomadic Monks Regarding Nature - Principles, Positions, and International Legal Context by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
Code of Conduct for Nomadic Monks Regarding Nature
Principles, Positions, and International Legal Context
Fundamental Principles of Rovingian Nomadic Monks
Rovingian nomadic monks develop a relationship of profound respect for nature, guided by rigorous rules of conduct aimed at preserving the life of all living beings.
Prohibition of Recreational Hunting
Hunting for recreational purposes is completely prohibited. It is only permitted in cases where it is essential for the survival of species or for one's own subsistence, rejecting the use of violence against animals without vital necessity.
Sustainable Diet
The diet of these monks is predominantly vegetarian, but not exclusively. The main objective is to reduce environmental impact, opting for seasonal foods and prioritizing organic or subsistence farming products whenever possible.
Unconditional Respect for Life
Any death of a living being, whether insect or animal, is considered sacrilege, except in situations of direct threat to life itself, reinforcing an ethos of non-violence and absolute respect for existence.
Holistic Relationship with Animals
The monks reject the idea of cursed animals or personifications of evil. Animals like crows are seen as companions, promoting an integrative vision in which each being plays a fundamental ecological role and eliminating anthropocentric prejudices.
Protection of Life and Natural Habitats
It is the duty of every monk to protect life in nature and defend the liberation of beings in captivity. The preservation of habitats, especially endangered species, is a priority.
Prohibition of the Use of Animals in Non-Natural Contexts
The Rovingian Council opposes the use of animals in captivity for recreational, laboratory, or commercial purposes, such as circuses, zoos, aquariums, or water parks. The exception occurs only in the creation of ecological reserves intended for the protection and eventual reintroduction of endangered species. The same principle applies to the use of animals in laboratory testing and commerce.
Creation of Sacred Nature Reserves
The Council proposes the creation of sacred environmental areas, endowed with their own status and legal personality, preventing any human exploitation and establishing a commitment to inviolable protection.
Sustainable Exploitation of Trees
The abusive cutting of trees or their exploitation for extensive logging is prohibited, with selective deforestation and ecological recovery practices being promoted.
Responsible Use of Plants in Rituals
Plants, flowers, fruits, and seeds have great ecological value and should not be used indiscriminately in ceremonies. Substitution with materials such as pebbles, fabrics, or ceramics is recommended, demonstrating respect for biological integrity.
Respect for Paths and Native Vegetation
Paths should be maintained as they have been used for generations, avoiding indiscriminate trampling of local vegetation and preventing the introduction of non-native species.
Legal Context: Legal Personality of Nature
The creation of sacred nature reserves with their own legal personality follows a global trend of granting legal rights to non-human entities, allowing for their judicial defense and protection against exploitation.
The concept of legal personality of nature tha the Rovingian Council defends is already implemented in several international jurisdictions:
Pillars of the Proposal
Own legal status: Environmental areas cease to be objects of property and become subjects of rights, and can be represented in court.
Prevention of exploitation: Any human action aimed at economic exploitation or degradation can be challenged in court, protecting the fundamental rights of the reserve.
Sacred Character: This approach protects sites of spiritual and cultural importance, integrating traditional and indigenous views that consider nature an indivisible and living entity.
Relevant International Examples
Spain (Mar Menor): In 2022, the Mar Menor lagoon became the first European ecosystem to receive legal personality, allowing any citizen to defend its rights.
New Zealand (Whanganui River): The river was recognized as a living entity, with the rights, powers, and duties of a legal person.
India and Bolivia: Rights were granted to mountains, rivers, and "Mother Earth" as a strategy to curb rampant exploitation.
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Normas de Conduta dos Monges Nómadas Perante a Natureza
Princípios, Posições e Contexto Jurídico Internacional
Princípios Fundamentais dos Monges Nómadas Rovingianos
Os monges nómadas rovingianos desenvolvem uma relação de profundo respeito com a natureza, pautando-se por normas rigorosas de conduta que visam preservar a vida de todos os seres vivos.
Proibição da Caça Recreativa
A caça para fins recreativos é completamente vedada. Só é permitida nos casos em que seja essencial para a sobrevivência das espécies ou para subsistência própria, rejeitando o uso de violência contra animais sem necessidade vital.
Alimentação Sustentável
A alimentação destes monges é predominantemente vegetariana, não sendo, porém, exclusiva. O principal objetivo é reduzir o impacto ambiental, optando por alimentos da época e privilegiando produtos de agricultura biológica ou de subsistência sempre que possível.
Respeito Incondicional pela Vida
Qualquer morte de ser vivo, seja inseto ou animal, é considerada um sacrilégio, exceto em situações de ameaça direta à própria vida, reforçando um ethos de não-violência e respeito absoluto pela existência.
Relação Holística com Animais
Os monges rejeitam a ideia de animais amaldiçoados ou personificações do mal. Animais como os corvos são vistos como companheiros, promovendo uma visão integradora em que cada ser desempenha um papel ecológico fundamental e eliminando preconceitos antropocêntricos.
Proteção da Vida e dos Habitats Naturais
É dever de todo monge proteger a vida na natureza e defender a libertação de seres em cativeiro. A preservação dos habitats, especialmente de espécies em extinção, é prioritária.
Proibição do Uso de Animais em Contextos Não-Naturais
O Conselho Rovingiano opõe-se ao uso de animais em cativeiro para fins recreativos, laboratoriais ou comerciais, como circos, jardins zoológicos, oceanários ou parques aquáticos. A exceção ocorre apenas na criação de reservas ecológicas destinadas à proteção e eventual reintrodução de espécies em perigo. O mesmo princípio aplica-se ao uso de animais em testes laboratoriais e comércio.
Criação de Reservas Naturais Sagradas
O Conselho propõe a criação de áreas ambientais sagradas, dotadas de estatuto e personalidade jurídica própria, impedindo qualquer ação humana de exploração e estabelecendo um compromisso de proteção intocável.
Exploração Sustentável das Árvores
É proibido o corte abusivo de árvores ou sua exploração para abate extensivo, sendo promovidos abates seletivos e práticas de recuperação ecológica.
Uso Responsável de Plantas em Rituais
Plantas, flores, frutos e sementes têm grande valor ecológico e não devem ser usadas indiscriminadamente em cerimónias. Recomenda-se a substituição por materiais como seixos, tecidos ou cerâmicas, demonstrando respeito pela integridade biológica.
Respeito pelos Caminhos e Vegetação Autóctone
Os caminhos devem ser mantidos conforme utilizados por gerações, evitando o pisoteio indiscriminado da vegetação local e impedindo a introdução de espécies não-nativas.
Contexto Jurídico: Personalidade Jurídica da Natureza
A criação de reservas naturais sagradas com personalidade jurídica própria acompanha uma tendência global de conferir direitos legais a entidades não humanas, permitindo a sua defesa judicial e proteção contra exploração.
O conceito de personalidade jurídica da natureza que o Conselho Rovingiano defende já está implementado em diversas jurisdições internacionais:
Pilares da Proposta
Estatuto jurídico próprio: Áreas ambientais deixam de ser objetos de propriedade e tornam-se sujeitos de direitos, podendo ser representadas em tribunal.
Impedimento de exploração: Qualquer ação humana que vise exploração económica ou degradação pode ser contestada judicialmente, protegendo os direitos fundamentais da reserva.
Caráter sagrado: Esta abordagem protege locais de importância espiritual e cultural, integrando visões tradicionais e indígenas que consideram a natureza uma entidade indivisível e viva.
Exemplos Internacionais Relevantes
Espanha (Mar Menor): Em 2022, a lagoa do Mar Menor tornou-se o primeiro ecossistema europeu a receber personalidade jurídica, permitindo que qualquer cidadão defenda os seus direitos.
Nova Zelândia (Rio Whanganui): O rio foi reconhecido como uma entidade viva, com direitos, poderes e deveres de uma pessoa jurídica.
Índia e Bolívia: Direitos foram atribuídos a montanhas, rios e à "Mãe Terra", como estratégia para travar a exploração desenfreada.
Au Moyen Âge, il suffisait de se promener dans les rues de Trèves pour découvrir le bon vieux temps. En effet, les gens de cette époque traitaient leur héritage historique de manière très pragmatique : les bâtiments qui ne pouvaient plus être utilisés devaient servir de carrières pour de nouvelles constructions. Et c'est ainsi que nombre des tours résidentielles en forme de forteresse qui ont vu le jour dans le centre-ville aux XIe et XIIe siècles ont souvent été construites avec des antiques matériaux de pierre romains que l'on trouvait encore partout. Seules quelques-unes de ces tours ont survécu jusqu'à aujourd'hui, - la tour des Francs du XIVe siècle, dont l'un de ses habitants se nommait Franco von Senheim, est l'une d'entre elles et aussi la mieux conservée. Dans ses murs aussi, des pierres antiques ont survécu aux âges.
La façade sans ornement et la couronne murale crénelée indiquent déjà que les constructeurs de la tour ont mis en priorité le facteur de sécurité. En fait, alors que la muraille d’enceinte antique de la ville avait été en grande partie détruite, la construction du mur d’enceinte médiéval n'était pas encore terminée. Une raison suffisante, donc, pour prouver leurs propres capacités défensives avec de petites fenêtres et des murs défiants. De plus, la porte d'entrée se trouvait au premier étage du côté est et ne pouvait être atteinte que par un escalier en bois rabattable. En cas d'attaque, les invités non invités se tenaient donc devant un mur solide et ne pouvaient pas entrer. Une porte au rez-de-chaussée n'a été ajoutée qu'au XIXe siècle.
In the Middle Ages, it was enough to walk through the streets of Trier to discover the good old days. Indeed, people of that time treated their historical heritage in a very pragmatic way: buildings that could no longer be used had to be used as quarries for new constructions. And so it is that many of the fortress-like residential towers that sprung up in the city center in the 11th and 12th centuries were often built with ancient Roman stone materials that were still found everywhere. Only a few of these towers have survived to this day - the 14th century Frankish Tower, one of whose inhabitants was named Franco von Senheim, is one of them and also the best preserved. In its walls too, ancient stones have survived the ages.
The unadorned facade and crenellated wall crown already indicate that the builders of the tower prioritized the safety factor. In fact, while the ancient city wall had been largely destroyed, the construction of the medieval city wall was not yet complete. Reason enough, then, to prove their own defensive abilities with small windows and defiant walls. Also, the front door was on the first floor on the east side and could only be reached by a folding wooden staircase. In the event of an attack, uninvited guests therefore stood in front of a solid wall and could not enter. A door on the ground floor was not added until the 19th century.
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
Not receiving Flickr ‘Notifications’ – The good news is Flickr have found a ‘bug’ in the subject line of the emails. The bad news is, quote ‘We are a small team.......and as the issue is not widespread, our engineers have to prioritize bug fixes accordingly’.
Kyoto's Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺 ie Temple of the Silver Pavilion) remained unfinished as the intended silver foil overlay was never done.
Its unfinished look hence became the symbol of one of the aspects of "Wabi-sabi" being the acceptance of the incomplete or even imperfect appearance.
With the bare branches and harsh light, I thought it accentuates its wabi-sabi quality best in monochrome.
Been thinking about “baked-in” software corrections and “enhancements” (collectively referred to as “adjustments”) in RAW files.
Quite a number of new mirrorless lenses these days came with baked-in software adjustments with the cameras they were made for. Some even have auto adjustments that we can’t even switch off, like the extreme auto distortion and vignetting corrections in the Nikon Z 14-30mm f4 S, there’s also baked-in sharpness algorithms that can’t be switched off.
As far as I know, there are hardly any review tests done on lenses with all the auto software adjustments switched off, which can be performed with the lens contacts taped over.
Distortion corrections are fine provided it’s not too extreme. Back in the analog era, lens designers have to prioritize low distortion and even vignetting over sharpness and size. Thanks to the advent of distortion corrections via software, lens designers have more freedom now.
However if other lens qualities like color, sharpness etc are baked into the lens’ software enhancement, why should we pay extra for these when we can make the very same adjustments via post processing? As it is, very sophisticated sharpening softwares already exist for a long time, for those who care about post processing of course.
Bottomline, if lens reviews cannot distinguish innate lens qualities from the extent of software adjustments applied by the manufacturer, their conclusions are useless especially for lenses that relied extensively on software adjustments. For now, most reviews will touch on distortion, vignetting and lateral chromatic aberration corrections only, they ought to go further to check what other adjustments have been baked in.
⭐️ It’s useful to keep all this in mind when comparing older DSLR lenses vs new extensively software adjusted mirrorless lenses, sometimes the perceived gap in image quality may well be nothing more than mere sophisticated baked-in software adjustments which we can easily bridge with post processing. ⭐️ These days, there’s also baked-in noise reduction in RAW files as well!
Not too long ago, there was a dearth of 35mm Primes in the Sony E mount system. It never rains but it pours, now Sigma is going to release a 35mm f1.4 DN Art after their boat anchor 35mm f1.2 DN Art and more balanced i35mm f2 DN! This comes at the heels of the Sony FE 35mm f1.4 GM and Voigtlander 35mm f2 APO Lanthar E. Sigma, where’s your 50mm f1.4 DN Art!?
With a Paducah Rebuild GP10 in tow, BNSF Train J ABIAUM1 30A swings down Main Track 5 on the BNSF Emporia Sub. near CP 72 as Conductor Bryce Bryce Haake gives us a wave and Engineer Steven Sirois Jr. blows a few friendly toots.
Though the "high-wide" symbol might be somewhat misleading, railroads commonly use this prefix type on expedited or high value moves to differentiate from other less prioritized trains, or ones that require less special handling. The hopper car is along for the ride to satisfy minimum axle requirements for properly shunting signal systems.
The GP10 was built for Illinois Central as GP9 IC 9120 in 12-1955 with a builder number of 20758 frame number 5409-3. In March 1973 it emerged from shop as a graduate of the ICG's Paducah Rebuild program as ICG 8329 as a GP10. It was later sold to the US Army, and renumbered USAX 1873. Later retired and sold to S&S Leasing and renumbered SSRX 1873, it soon found a new home on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and renumbered MRSR 9120, regaining its original number, while owned by American Heritage Railways in 2016.
It was painted in the Milwaukee Road-inspired livery as seen here and pulled trains in Washington until COVID-19 shut the railroad down, and eventually forced AHR to seek a new owner.
The locomotive was then moved into storage on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad in Abilene, KS; the ASVR being a fairly recently affiliated partner with AHR. The Branson Scenic Railway was purchased by AHR in 2024, and the movement of the locomotive was expedited to that property in this special move in order to restore service for their busy Independence Day holiday week of excursions due to their GP30, BSRX 99 experiencing a sudden prime mover failure.
The engine was interchanged to the MNA Railroad at Aurora, MO, quickly wyed, and raced to Branson to be placed in service. By July 3rd it had been turned, serviced, tested, and re-lettered to pull the train out of Branson, facing south.
Locomotives: BNSF 6578, HRMX 9120
6-30-25
Kansas City, KS
- Virgil.
In 2016 when we planned a Fall road trip to Colorado, some spots in the state automatically made it to our list. Crystal mills near Marble, Colorado, were one such location. Along with the Maroon Bells, Rocky Mountains, and the Great Sand Dunes NP, it ranked as one of Colorado's must-see places for us. While on the trip, we slowly realized that we would not make it to many of our planned destinations. We had to drop Rocky Mountain Park, and The Great Sand Dunes became a maybe. Our logic was to prioritize fall colors over everything else, and we felt these National parks probably deserve dedicated trips.
On our way to Crystal Mills, we found this beautiful little lake in a beautiful woodland setting. What caught our attention was the massive pile of tree trunks right in the middle of the lake. India doesn’t have a native beaver population, but I sure have studied about them. In a state that overwhelmingly relies on dams for power, rodents who build dams were approached with a lot of curiosity. I took advantage of the water's stillness to compose an image that showcased the tiny little island and the woodland's reflection. I am not sure if this pile of woods was remnants of beaver activity in the area, but it looks very close to images from my old school textbooks.
Print journalism may be dying but some of us still like to take the time to read and consider.
Critics argue that media organisations, especially those owned by large corporations, may prioritize profit over journalistic integrity. This can lead to concerns about the suppression of certain stories or the promotion of particular agendas.
It's important to note that trust in the media is complex and can vary based on individual experiences, beliefs, and exposure to different news sources. Media organisations play a crucial role in rebuilding trust by demonstrating transparency, accuracy, and a commitment to journalistic principles.
Wellington, Somerset, UK.
- Antoine de Saint-Exupery.
|| insta || blog || photostream ||
While driving back from our trip to Eureka, California, we stopped at one of our favorite state parks. The Humboldt redwoods SP is an incredible place to stop while on the Avenue of Giants scenic drive. We stopped at the visitor center and had a relaxed lunch and stroll by taking on one of the hiking trails nearby. On this trip, I prioritized using my film cameras over digital, and the short hikes suited the heavy gear and tripod a lot better. While walking around, I came across this scene of an offshoot path that goes through a redwood grove. I love how well the Fujifilm rendered the greens and reds present in the redwood forests, very pleasing to the eye.
It’s been a minute or 2 since I was able to focus on photography. My sister rescued a feral kitten, and I’ve been in the thick of things with getting elements of my imaging business on track. We all have responsibilities, etc that need prioritizing, so it’s a balancing act at times (wobble). Finally had a moment to capture some moments!
While at the Lake Worth Recreation Center I noticed not just a gargantuan tree but one oozing fantastical features. Spent some time wandering about this monstrosity, let alone weirdly inside it. Turns out I was getting to know what’s called a strangler fig. Not quite a parasitic entity, yet when doing its thing it’ll take out a host tree and live its life with no regrets.
Anyways, I’ll be on the lookout for more of these monsters since this is a creature which enjoys tropical delights. Pleasure sharing some samples . . .
Alias: Hammer
Real Name: Olga Rasputinovich
Gender: Female
Allegiance: Villain
Powers: Can absorb metal, which she uses to make her hammer, along with being able to leap (20ft vertical, and 40ft horizontally). The metal she absorbs can also be used as a way to enhance her own armour, making her extremely durable to oncoming attacks.
Alias: Sickle
Real Name: Dmitri Rasputinovich
Gender: Male
Allegiance: Villain
Powers: Enhanced Speed, and Leaping
Backstory: Brother and sister, Dmitri and Olga, came from Russia to Sunrise City, looking for the "american dream". They would find themselves on the streets for many years, as they couldn't maintain jobs. Dmitri especially was given a hard time because of his monstrous appearance. Eventually, they would turn to crime, where they would meet Katyusha for the first time. They decided to team up, and now they are trio to be reckoned with. Ivan (Katyusha's real name) has started to develop feelings for Olga, which leads to conflict when on the job, as he'll prioritize her over the mission.
In my frustration I decided to consult the Oracle at ChatGPT concering our problem with fascistic billionaires. Here is their response:
Addressing concerns related to the environmental impact of the actions of the wealthy requires a combination of policy measures, public awareness, and international cooperation. Here are some potential strategies:
1. **Environmental Regulations:**
- Strengthen and enforce environmental regulations to limit pollution, resource depletion, and unsustainable practices.
- Implement and improve emissions standards, waste disposal regulations, and sustainable resource management policies.
2. **Carbon Pricing:**
- Advocate for carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems, to internalize the environmental costs of business activities.
3. **Renewable Energy Transition:**
- Encourage and invest in renewable energy sources to shift away from fossil fuels. This might involve subsidies, tax incentives, and research funding for clean energy technologies.
4. **Corporate Responsibility:**
- Promote corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable business practices. Encourage transparency in reporting environmental impacts and adherence to ethical standards.
5. **Wealth Redistribution:**
- Address wealth inequality through progressive taxation and social policies. This can help prevent a concentration of power and resources in the hands of a few.
6. **Political Advocacy:**
- Support political candidates and policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and address the influence of money in politics.
7. **Consumer Awareness:**
- Educate consumers about the environmental impact of their choices and encourage sustainable consumption. A conscious consumer base can drive market demand for eco-friendly products and services.
8. **International Cooperation:**
- Promote international agreements and cooperation to address global environmental challenges. Climate change and resource depletion are global issues that require coordinated efforts.
9. **Philanthropy:**
- Encourage billionaires to use their wealth for philanthropic efforts that focus on environmental conservation, sustainable development, and addressing climate change.
10. **Innovation and Technology:**
- Invest in and support research and development of technologies that promote environmental sustainability and mitigate the impact of human activities on the planet.
It's important to note that systemic change often requires a combination of policy, economic, and cultural shifts. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals is crucial for creating a sustainable and equitable future. Public pressure and awareness play a significant role in holding both businesses and governments accountable for their environmental impact.
⦁ As you’ve seen in my previous blogs, I love exploring every corner of this amazing community. My goal is simple: to capture everything that makes it special. Behind each building, there’s a team of dedicated staff members ready to care for residents with compassion and professionalism.
Today, I took a trip to Woodland Grove EMS Station home to our incredible first responders.
The moment a resident dial 911, a chain of lifesaving action begins. The dispatcher quickly alerts Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and within moments, trained professionals are on their way. EMS teams respond to accidents, sudden illnesses, and urgent medical situations where every second matters.
When they arrive at the scene, their work begins immediately. They assess the situation, evaluate injuries or medical conditions, and make rapid decisions about the care needed. Their ability to stay calm under pressure is remarkable. They prioritize treatment based on severity, stabilize patients, and prepare them for safe transport.
Driving an emergency vehicle is no small task. EMS professionals must move swiftly while still adhering to traffic laws and ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Their focus is unwavering patient care comes first.
This department is always active because emergencies can happen at any time, day or night. With over four EMS personnel ready to respond, residents can feel confident knowing help is never far away.
Woodland Grove EMS Station isn’t just a building it’s a hub of courage, skill, and dedication. Behind those doors are heroes who stand ready to serve at a moment’s notice, ensuring our community remains safe and cared for every single day.
Location: Woodland Grove Community / EMS Station
→ 💎Him:
Outfit: [Mazzaro] Elden Set / Shirt, Short. / 10 colors / Equal10
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
I've been playing around a lot lately with my 70-200 mm lens, since you can both pick thing out in the landscape and exclude others using limited depth of field.
Shooting this desert sunflower close at 200 mm, there's a high risk of losing one or more of the flowers to softness due to depth of field, so I went to f/22. There was a lot of focus a few years back on losing some resolution to diffraction. While true, it's not a huge or noticeable difference, not on the same scale of losing a flower to DOF, and the rest of the photo is soft anyway, so it's better to prioritize depth of field over resolution and get the shot.
Rules and technical knowledge are great, but they're just guidelines, factors to consider, but we can't get caught blindly serving them, because sometimes other considerations should have a higher priority.
Accelerating over alien terrain against air resistance at a approximately 1,264.8 feet/second squared Northeast.
Just a little something I made a while ago.
>:(
A note to Flickr's administration: Why? Seriously, why?
I'm not stupid, I've noticed over the past couple months before logging in how non-members view the beta version of Flickr while members use the sweet, wonderful original once logged in. Now that EVERYONE sees and has to use the impractical beta version, it begs the question: Is Flickr prioritizing nonmembers over the people who actually use it? I haven't seen any Flickr users who profess to prefer this version over the other. Most hate it, and are being driven away.
We can leave, if that's what you want...
Merry Art Deco Christmas featuring La Cocotte Voisin (stylized eagle) Hood Ornament, the very unique French Voisin mascot.
Gabriel Voisin, on 5 November 1906, established the Appareils d'Aviation Les Frères Voisin with his brother Charles [3] (English: Flying Machines of Voisin Brothers). The company, based in the Parisian suburb of Billancourt, was the first commercial aircraft factory in the world.[4] It created Europe's first manned, heavier-than-air powered aircraft capable of a sustained (1 km), circular, controlled flight, including take-off and landing, the Voisin-Farman I.
After Charles died in an automobile accident in 1912; the full official company name then became Société Anonyme des Aéroplanes G. Voisin[1][2][note 1] (English: Aeroplanes Voisin public limited company). During World War I, it was a major producer of military aircraft, notably the Voisin III. After the war Gabriel Voisin abandoned the aviation industry, and set up a company to design and produce luxury automobiles, called Avions Voisin.
In 1919 he started producing cars using Knight-type sleeve valve engines. Former student of the Fine Arts School of Lyon and enthusiast for all things mechanical since his childhood, Voisin's uncompromisingly individual designs made extensive use of light alloys, especially aluminum. One of the company's most striking early designs was the Laboratoire Grand Prix car of 1923; one of the first cars ever to use monocoque chassis construction,[2] and utilising small radiator-mounted propeller to drive the cooling pump. The characteristic Voisin style of 'rational' coachwork he developed in conjunction with his collaborator André Noel. Noel prioritized lightness, central weight distribution, capacious luggage boxes and distinctively angular lines. The 1930s models with underslung chassis were strikingly low.
In the early 1930s, Gabriel Voisin could not pay all of his draftsmen any more and a young creative engineer named André Lefèbvre quit, recommended by Gabriel to Louis Renault. Lefèbvre finally entered Citroën where he led three particularly significant car projects: the Traction Avant, the 2CV and the DS, using a lot of Gabriel's lessons.
Engines
Sleeve valve Knight engines were used exclusively until some later models switched to Graham 3.5 litre engines. The Knight engines included: inline four; inline six; V8 (prototype); V12 - 7.2 liter, 1921 (prototype); inline twelve and a seven-cylinder radial (prototype).
I know you all needed this info for Xmas reading in front of the fire..............Merry Christmas
Valentines Day is just around the corner! Remember you don't have to be in a relationship to celebrate! Loving yourself means embracing your flaws and celebrating your strengths. It involves prioritizing your well-being and setting boundaries that honor your needs.
Having been here a few years ago for 148 as seen here: flic.kr/p/2otLTub
I really wanted to get a freight here with sun. Alas timing didn't work out for me to catch the Friday Sebring Turn here as originally planned, but the rail gods favored me thanks to Cane 1 loading way up at Childs, near Lake Placid. This meant I had an opportunity for a train here on Saturday, which I made sure to prioritize.
South Central Florida Express train Cane 1 is rumbling south across the wood pile trestle over alligator filled Fisheating Creek at about MP 918.4 (as measured from Richmond, VA via the old Atlantic Coast Line main) led by USSC 4203, a rebuilt GP40-2 that began life in Oct. 1966 as a straight GP40 built new for the Milwauke Road as their number 193. Childs is the longest distance cane run on the SCFE with the loadout located less than seven miles from the depot in downtown Lake Pacid. The trip back to the Clewiston sugar mill is a bit over 50 miles total which made for a nice long morning chase of which this was by far the highlight.
Unincorporated Palmdale
Glades County, Florida
Saturday March 15, 2025
Stroll along the spring-kissed streets as the sun sets on this magical evening... 💕🌹
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Outfit: Beauty Factory - Luma Outfit (Fatpack) / @ FaMESHed
FaMESHed Event
Taxi: maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/FaMESHed/218/219/801
Beauty Factory
Taxi: maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Beauty%20Factory/128/128/21
ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ
After a long day or week of hard work, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we just need to keep pushing ourselves to achieve more. But in reality, taking care of ourselves is crucial for maintaining our energy, motivation, and overall well-being. We need to give ourselves permission to take a break and indulge in the things that bring us joy and relaxation.
So, don't forget to treat yourself with some much-needed love and care. Whether that means taking a relaxing bath, spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or simply taking a walk in nature, make sure to find time to do what makes your soul deeply happy.
Enjoy the simple pleasures in life. One way to do this is by stopping to smell the flowers, quite literally! Take a deep breath in and appreciate the beauty and fragrance of the flowers around you.
And if you're feeling like doing some happy ladies' things, go for it! There's no need to worry about what others may think or understand. Whether it's treating yourself to a spa day or shopping for some new clothes, make sure to prioritize your own happiness and well-being.
Remember, if you don't take good care of yourself, no one else will. Prioritizing your own well-being is not a selfish act, but rather a necessary one. So let's all make a commitment to finding balance in our lives and making time for the things that truly matter.
" Wishing you all a happy and rejuvenating upcoming weekend... 💕🌹 "
ε(´｡•᎑•`)っ 💕
Have a wonderful weekend.素敵な週末を Mitsushiro
Have a wonderful weekend.
Mitsushiro
First, I will prioritize Japanese and English, and release my novel, B♭ (B-flat).
It is available in the Drive below.
Drive folder for novel publication: (小説専門の公開用ドライブ)
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
I want to provide accurate translations in 34 languages.
For those who do not understand English or Japanese, please wait a little longer.
I promise I will release them.
素敵な週末を Mitsushiro
僕はまず、日本語と英語を優先して、僕の小説、【B♭（ビーフラット）】を公開します。
それは以下のドライブにあります。
Drive folder for novel publication: (小説専門の公開用ドライブ)
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
僕は、３４種類の言語の正確な翻訳を望んでいます。
英語、日本語がわからない方は、いましばらくお待ちください。
僕は必ず公開します。
#novel #B♭ #小説 #ビーフラット #ネットフリックスへの挑戦 #ChallengetoNetflix #Netflix #ネットフリックス #千葉 #やちまた #八街 #八街市 #yachimata #yachimatacity #cityofyachimata #NewYork #ニューヨーク #マンハッタン #Manhattan #アメリカ #USA #Chiba #MrLonely #BobbyVinton #oneokrock #thepilot
For me, K-2SO is easily the best part about Rogue One. After seeing the many awesome versions of this droid out there I was inspired to build one myself. (The folks pointing out the K2 influences in this bot got me thinking about it as well.)
I'm pretty happy with how this turned out! The shoulder/hip articulation is below my usual standards but for this build I decided to prioritize the shape and look.
I'm even happier I can stop thinking about it; I've been working on this and obsessing about it for weeks so it's nice to let my mind move onto other things (who else does this?). Of course there are still some areas I'd like to improve (*cough*feet*cough*) but what else is new?
I usually let the pieces do all the talking but in this case I couldn't resist dotting the balljoint with some eyes. I may have to relax my "rules" a bit!
75 pcs
The 2024 edition of the CPKC Holiday Train takes the sweeping curve around Elbow Lake northwest of Vergas, Minnesota on its way to Detroit Lakes, Mahnomen, Plummer, and finally Thief River Falls to wrap up a day on the CPKC Detroit Lake Subdivision.
For the second year in a row, I prioritized following the train trek up the Detroit Lakes Subdivision through lakes country. I am glad that this is part of holiday traditions for the last 26 years benefiting local food banks and offering excellent festive musical performances. I ended up getting a bonus day of shooting the Holiday Train the following day on the CPKC Elbow Lake Subdivision between Kensington and Elbow Lake itself.
Excerpt from the plaque:
In 1965, at the height of his fame, Warhol announced that he was retiring from painting to make films. He staged his “farewell” in a New York gallery the following year. One room included only wallpaper featuring a fluorescent pink cow. In the other, metallic silver balloons filled with helium floated through the gallery space, where viewers could interact with them. Titled Silver Clouds, this work continued Warhol’s association with the colour silver: the silver Factory, his silver paintings, his silver-grey wigs.
Warhol described Silver clouds, which he made with engineer Billy Kluver, as “painting that float”. He wanted to challenge the dominance of Minimalist art in the New York art scene at the time. Minimalism prioritized order, mathematical precision, and heavy industrial materials. Although Silver Clouds is also made of an industrial material, a silver laminate called Scotchpak, Warhol approached this work with a focus on fluidity, buoyancy, and movement.