As a photographer who prioritizes capturing uplifting, hopeful images, it’s really difficult for me to photograph images with any semblance of decay or destruction, but as the sun was setting and casting interesting shadows on these wildfire devastated trees in the El Dorado National Forest, I experienced a profound respect for the life and death they endured. Minimal post-processing was required to convey the reverent mood I was seeking in these images, primarily relying upon Adobe Lightroom’s latest color grading panel, which really has a profound impact on the mood of an image using slight color adjustments in the highlights, shadows and midtones.

www.optimalfocusphotography.com

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.

Saxon had his birthday earlier this week :-)

 

I was working, but prioritized a beach trip and then my modem died, so this is late and this shot is actually from the week before when he got a swim down by the river ... the beach birthday shots will have to come later

 

a happy wet Saxon for his birthday regardless :-)

 

and a bone when we got home :-)

How our lives have changed one year on! It was one year since Victoria detected it's first Coronavirus case. Today on Australia Day the Worldometer ticked over to 100 million cases.

To everyone who has lost a loved one, my sympathies.

We live in a world interconnected in so many ways. This year has taught us in Australia to live a bit more carefully but we have been very lucky to live on an island with governmental systems that have prioritised health.

As the WHO preliminary report on the Coronavirus Pandemic decided- healthy people leads to more likelihood of a healthy economy. "Prioritizing health or prioritizing the economy has proved to be a false dichotomy. A preliminary observation by the Panel is that economic outcomes have been better in economies where strict public health control measures have been implemented effectively." and "There has been a wholesale failure to take seriously the existential risk posed by pandemic threat to humanity and its place in the future of the planet." Read more:

Second Report 19 Jan 2021 .

CN L536 coasts through Flossmoor and overtakes L515 as the preferred train to enter Kirk first. July 2024

–

 

“ΣΛRLY ΣSPRΣSSΘ TIMΣ, ΛLPHΛ's SΣVΣN SΣΛS & THΣ ΣVΣNTIDΣS SPΣCTRΣ'S MΛSQUΣRΛDΣS”

 

Good day / evening ladies & gentlemen, compagni, comrades, gals & gents, fellow followers & beautiful searchers,

 

–

 

“ΛN INVITΛTIΘN”

As I wrote earlier this week, and almost like sending out an open invitation to read a bit more about me this weekend, ...

who that man behind that funny-pale-profile-photograph of me here is, well highly unlikely you like to know :D,

but let's try / go anyway, diving a bit deeper into the alpha-seas.. a beautiful-boring read & wall of text ? you might think there ..

well I can't assure you ..

but.. let's give it a try anyway.. and maybe you will find a few fine eye-openers too for you as it was for me.. along the way .. maybe some silly-fun as well ;)

I wish you a good coffee { Moka } time & read. Enjoy..

 

–

 

“ΛLPHΛ”

Some might know me as ALPHA here, a name what popped up in my mind immediately & a particular strong connection I felt inside me towards that word when making this Flickr account here, a name not directly linked, for me, to the Alpha wolves, the leaders amongst a wolf-pack, no; for me it's important { trying } to be good and share true goodness towards this world { ahh no I'm not a saint .. far from it, absolutely and no I do not live like a true James Bond here either, I'm a simple man { so I will just use simple written words here } though I do have a deep lust for life, a deep thirst for knowledge & history .. better to make a delicious Espresso { Moka } than a watered-down-tasteless Espresso made without "passion".. no.. . ? For me: yes !

 

A fighter, yes I am and as you are.. to fall and rise again, to try and make a better version out of myself every single night, day and hour, trying to give and radiate good vibes towards this world around me, but to be good & kind to myself too { like an infusion of a Vitamin "Ego" given to myself, thus indulging ourself. When you would ask me what those Vitamin "Ego" actually means for me: a pretty short answer: for me it means a good and deep time given to myself, like a good long workout, a beachwalk, swimming, a delicious cup of Espresso, being in nature and or with animals, a darksweet piece of chocolate, a fun chit-chat, a deep conversation with your friend / loved one etc, it can be everything, though with one rule in mind, that it has to recharge, revive yourself, feeling better and good, just time for yourself in the most best way possible, yet most of us neglect this last step more or less, we feel we need this or that, here & NOW, we feel we have to do this or that for them { or even from them }, NOW...

 

In my "humble" opinion it's better to spread positive "lightseeds" around this world, almost like candles, lighthouses, inspiration, funny things, quotes, art etc etc, maybe even eye-openers { I do hope.. along your coffee-time-read here too :)) }, almost like an invisible "lead", a lighthouse shining from afar and writing to you about the word lead, in my opinion leader { ship } should be "invisible", not pushing people into a direction THEY want, no, in my humble opinion leadership should be:

people who are falling or in need of help, to make them rise again, stimulate them without pushing your "cure" into their mind, to make them feel good again, to make them { feel } precious again, because in the end we all are beyond truly precious here, every single one of you out there on this highly-crazy strange blue rock floating in space amongst the countless seas of stars & planets, floating and searching... and search... and sea... ..

 

And it's going both ways..

Awesome people around me makes me feel { far more.. (: } awesome too.. (: .. a very old Norse { Viking } saying: “Birds of a feather flock most together.” ~Brennu-Njáls Saga, c.51 .. meaning: “Surround yourself with likeminded people who bring out the best in you.” Yes we all know & think this: a simple logica,.. but it's working, deeply and on many levels..

 

–

 

“Λ PLΛCΣ CΛLLΣD HΘMΣ” & “THΣ ΛNCHΘR IN TIMΣ”

Where I live ? Well I live very close to the sea, in a harbour town not that very large with rainy, foggy stormy Autumns & Winters and hot Summers.

I couldn't live without: the sea { warm & nice in Summer, and very stormy in Winter }.. storm & fog.. weathertypes I prefer for the Winters here, and of course my daily Espresso infusions, good deep conversations, surrounding myself with art, history, books, family, friends, nature, animals & music.. etc etc that is what makes this wild Alpha-heart do tick very here.

 

–

 

“LIFΣ-PΛTH & LIFΣ-TΛCTICS .. ΛND FΘR THΘSΣ AMΘNG US ... FRΘM BURN-ΘUT TΘ BURN-IN”

To start with these quotes:

[ 1 ] - “Listen to other people's ideas { yes even from me .. (: } - but at the end of the day, TRUST YOURSELF” ― Source unknown --> and yes I can't agree more onto that quote !

[ 2 ] - “Don’t you know yet? It is your Light that lights the worlds.” ― Rumi

“The wound is the place where the light enters you.” ― Rumi

“What hurts you, blesses you. Darkness is your candle. {Every darkness is your opportunity to become a candle.}” ― Rumi

[ 3 ] - “If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly our whole life would change.” ― Buddha

[ 4 ] - “Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” ― George Bernard Shaw

[ 5 ] - “There is no path to happiness: happiness is the path.” ― Buddha

[ 6 ] - “Birds of a feather flock most together.” ~Brennu-Njáls Saga, c.51 .. meaning: “Surround yourself with likeminded people who bring out the best in you.” ― An old Norse { Viking } quote --> again ! .. utterly true and yes I can't agree more onto that quote !

[ 7 ] - “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets YΘUⱤ soul on fire {ᚴ}.” ― Jeniffer Lee

 

–

 

Now let's get back to “LIFΣ-PΛTH & LIFΣ-TΛCTICS ... FRΘM BURN-ΘUT TΘ BURN-IN” Part one { in the future maybe more }:

My personal life-tactics, to get back onto a strong track again, some of my daily routines I would like to share with you:

[ 1 ] - I'm an early bird, yes I love the serene nights deeply, but for my system I discovered to rise early is better for me that means a sharp 6:00 am here { listen to your own system .. it will tell you what is best for you }

[ 2 ] - than I'm making an Espresso here { -no-sugar-please-thx! :D }, and for me truly nothing better to be found in the mornings than this energy-infusing mindboost with it's delicious inspiring aromatic velvetness filling my room + some fast fruit, .. and so endless possibilities become available ONLY AFTER my Espresso

[ 3 ] - a short but intense workout { pushups, etc etc }

[ 4 ] - a quick shower { from warm to absolutely fully cold water, this way { in my opinion } it will kick in your immune system on a deeper level, your survival spirit inside will greet you happily & strong, which in these modern lives is mostly neglected, you feel it immediately the fighting / surviving beast inside you getting reborn / awaken from slumber, a deep primal { energy } boost, an utter great way to start the day I would say ;) yes

[ 5 ] - than a quick but good healthy breakfast { maybe abit of red meat or later for lunch; red{ish} meat is truly concentrated powerfood, my breakfast-preference: I'm just making a few fast wraps / taco's with some slices of red meat { like Roast beef }, black or red beans, salad, triplo concentrato tomato sauce { paste } as base, a slice of nice cheese and some herbs, this whole process will only takes some 5 minutes to prepare these devilicious-healthy things } Good food is extremely important,.. I must say here: do we buy the cheapest and or worst fuel for our cars .. ???

And as some daily extra vitamins & minerals I take:

1 x 1000mg Vit C + 1 capsule Zell H3 { enzymes, vitamins & minerals }

 

[ 6 ] - good sleep { !!! } { in my humble opinion bad sleep and too short sleep could lead to:

for children to ADHD // adults: depression, bad immune system with all it's other forthcoming problems, diabetes, heart disease, burn-out // elderly people: sleep deprivation increases Alzheimer's protein, etc, yes we all know this and at the same time we truly can think we could neglect it... and just hope for the best.. { !!! }

 

[ 7 ] - water

 

[ 8 ] - regular { long } walks, personally I love beachwalks as you might know by now :D, nothing better to clear

your mind on a stormy beach, fully recharging yourself, getting "inspiration & wisdom" gifts from the sea,

unblocking energy blockades due to better blood flow / circulation.. and thus an awesome tool too to get rid of stress, headaches etc etc etc

 

“STRUCTURΣSINTHΣMIST”

{ structure & plan; exercise; knowledge; follow your dreams, heart & soul; sea, the light in darkness & the darkness in light; protect & discover; inner- & outer-energies; food & fun }

 

–

 

“SΘUL COMPΛSS - ΘUR HΛRBΘUR”

The rest of my daily processes & routines I will spare you, it's more than good & wise, to make your own "potion", just giving you some ideas here, and as I'm far from being a guru, nor want to be, and as I quoted earlier “Listen to other people's ideas { yes even from me .. (: } - but at the end of the day, TRUST YOURSELF”. I'm learning every day from my mistakes { that means in my case I'm learning all day :D }, yet I just like to share to you what works for me, and at the moment { and it's not the first time in my life } I need and will get to “TO BURN-IN” again from my burn-out state which I recently have { getting back to my 7 hours of sleep instead of 3.5 hours sleep for 4+ months }, sometimes we think the grass is { always } greener in our neighbour's yard, and while we are being surrounded with those "super-solutions" from TV-commercials, a "pill" for this and a "pill" for that to make us smarter, stronger and better etc, a "master"-guru who is trying to sell his or her book online through a smart youtube video about the best solution you could possibly ever find out there and so we think ahhh yes THEY have THE key onto the locks of our own happiness and strength, in my humble opinion, I dare to say to you, no, it's good to listen to others, their advice etc, but it's much better, smarter and healthier to trust our own feelings, our mind, our soul, when we listen deeply to our soul { the true "compass" } it will lead us from our knee-deep mud crawling state and battlefields inside, and it will lead us towards a better version of ourself, better health, stronger, and yes in that I believe, the glowing spark inside me.. Yet our soul-compass is many times being overshadowed due these world "never-ending noises & super-solutions" out there { Sadly power on Earth here means more than most times nothing more than blinding conflicting corruption, the only truth.. { beautifully wrapped-illusions }.. sold as truth }, brainwashing-projections over our eyes; and leading us further & further away from our true-self, like stars being obscured due to the overbright citylight, we need to find our way back "home" again.. we can: lighthouse { true friends, faith, love, nature etc } and our inner-compass { soul .. }

 

–

 

“BIRDS ΘF Λ FΣΛTHΣR FLΘCK MΘST TΘGΣTHΣR.”

Surround yourself with truly good & honest people, they can bring us onto a higher level, it's not good to get drained by negative ones and as Albert Einstein once said: “Stay away from negative people. They have a problem for every solution.”, they can & will put us onto a lower level & plan in our lives. Embrace yourself and the precious ones out there, sometimes we have to close a very special connection with a precious person, maybe we got triggered because we were not ready for it, and it's healthy and wise to leave and close those connections, temporarily, and sometimes those precious connections we have closed are so strong, we can re-open them again and meet those people again in our life when we are ready with our better version of ourself.

 

Once in a while in life we meet precious people, just once in a while.. once in a million, there are these whom are beyond golden so precious, as with my wife I've met { maybe you have seen her name, Gitana, along with the titles of my art & photos I upload here, a deep dedication towards her when I uploaded those photos }, being together were the best and most precious times of my life, till 4 years ago, when she passed away { August 17, 2016 - a day before my birthday } at a young age due to heart failure, and an extreme unhuman black crater / hole was smashed into my soul after she left Earth.

 

This year I'm { trying } to rise again. Yet I know too { it takes time }: your and mine beloved one who left Earth, don't want us to suffer, neither we want this ourself { yet it is so difficult to fully entwine that wisdom into our mind and soul and feelings }. I "know" & feel nothing is lost in the end in this universe { energy is never lost, it is a metamorphological transition we are witnessing here }, we will meet our beloved ones again, absolutely. And when we are truly opening ourself again and want to better ourself and our life after many years of suffering,.. surviving those "inner-battlefields", I do have no doubt we will reach that destination, trusting ourself with our own unique deep soul as our most true compass and with our precious friends we will find our way and steer out those dark naval storms, I have no doubt about it, the human mind is extremely powerful. “Following the light of the sun, we left the Old World.” Always new horizons.. better versions of ourself.. waiting for us to be picked up.. and as Buddha once said: “The mind is everything. What you think, you become.”

  

Embrace life, the precious ones around you, take good care of each other & yourself { your love, your wife / husband, children, family, friends }, guard your energy, feed your thirst for knowledge, believe me, nothing else matters more than these things...

Don't let yourself being mentally drained by anyone or anything, it's damaging deeper than we think.. on many

multiple layers..

And as they say in Italy: “è meglio essere soli che in cattiva compagnia.” translated to: “It is better to be alone than in bad company.” So true, not only with company, "friends", "love", or in marriage / relationship, we always think,

it will be better soon, maybe it is because of me they react like that, no. Again don't let yourself being mentally drained / or being taken down by anyone or anything, it's damaging deeper than we think.. { !!! } Don't think there is NO solution.. there IS always a solution as long as you are looking honest to yourself and start to prioritize your life, with the things what makes YOU happy & healthy again, .. yes absolutely without a doubt ;) !!

 

Blocking your emotions, will block your creation-process, energy-flow & eventually your inner- & outer-happiness !

 

Speak up when something isn't / doesn't feel right for you, and share other feelings too, show your beautiful soul, let it radiate !

 

Share your feelings & preferences.

 

Do keep in mind, there are / will be people who don't like you and maybe even hate you, those connections will never work, you can roll-out the red carpet for them, give them "gold" but it will drain you in the end, as so is the opposite very true too, precious people will stick with you, no matter what, they feel this faith inside them for you, they believe in you, no matter what, those are beyond precious, and together you will rise on your life-path, happier & stronger together.

 

–

 

“THΣ SPΣCTRΣ'S MΛSQUΣRΛDΣ..”

And through our many "battlefields" we will find home again, I'm sure of that:

Dario Marianelli - Elegy for Dunkirk: youtu.be/EVuRWdu_Ifg

 

“An ancestors' call: -The Ravens-”

Raven Chant · Of The Wand & The Moon: youtu.be/AD2Geicit4k

 

“Following the light of the sun, we left the Old World.”

“Following the light of our Soul, we -left- our former Self.”:

The Departure (Extended) - Max Richter: youtu.be/DmQmepDPg6I

 

“I've never met a strong person with an easy past.” ― Atticus

Refuelling our Soul:

Ocean waves crashing powerfully at night on Spiaggia di Museddu beach:

youtu.be/btmjDyff6E8

 

–

 

“THΣ MIND IS ΣVΣRYTHING. WHΛT YΘU THINK, YΘU BΣCΘMΣ.”

Last part { for now ? well for this day for sure },.. let's bore you more with my most beloved quotes this very moment:

 

“Forests may be gorgeous but there is nothing more alive than a tree that learns how to grow in a cemetery.” ― Andrea Gibson

 

“Your mind is precious. It has the power to unlock infinite possibilities.” Joel Annesley

 

“Let them judge you.

Let them misunderstand you.

Let them gossip about you.

Their opinions aren’t your problem.

You stay kind, committed to love,

and free in your authenticity.

No matter what they do or say,

don’t you dare doubt your worth

or the beauty of your truth.

Just keep on shining like you do.”

― Scott Stabile

 

“The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.” ― Elie Wiesel

 

Never rejects yourself:

“Stay away from negative people. They have a problem for every solution.” ― Albert Einstein

 

“Get rid of toxic people in your life.

Chase the better version of yourself everyday

You get to knock down in the future but learn & get on your feet, fight & focus, commit to one thing, its your mindset

Youre never too young or too old, dont think too small

Know Yourself, Then The World Is Yours, self awareness, confront it, suppression isnt the solution

Embrace yourself, see yourself as you are, with no judgement

Focus on your bodily sensations

Focus on your breathing”

 

“Always stimulate your mind

dont worry about those who talk behind your back, they are behind you for a reason

dont get drained from negativity & negative people {energy vamps}

dont give your time to toxic people, leeches, motivation-killers

maintain your focus.”

 

“The real power of a man is in the size of the smile of the woman sitting next to him.” ― Anonymous

 

“A man who trims himself to suit everybody will soon whittle himself away.” ― Charles M. Schwa

 

“Don’t wait any longer. Dive in the ocean, Leave and let the sea be you.” ― Rumi

 

“Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions.” ― Ramsey

 

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” ― Melody Beattie

 

“We learn from failure, not from success!” ― Stoker

 

“Truly there is no such thing as finality.”― Stoker

 

“A good book is a lighthouse; a wise man is a lighthouse; conscience is a lighthouse; compassion is a lighthouse; science is a lighthouse! They all show us the true path! Keep them in your life to remain safe in the rocky and dark waters of life!”

― Ildan

 

“Some people are destined to be a lighthouse for a lost comrade.” ― Erin Forbes

  

“-Love- is the lighthouse of the soul.”

“-Love- is Energy.”

“The KEY is inside me.. as for you.. .”

 

–

  

“SΣVΣN SΣΛS & THΣ ΣVΣNTIDΣS SPΣCTRΣ'S MΛSQUΣRΛDΣS” -secret- songs:

[ 1 ] - The Synthetic Dream Foundation - Cerce's Armoured Owls: youtu.be/nrQXZnCH3nE

[ 2 ] - The Synthetic Dream Foundation: youtu.be/s8x-6vTkNAc

 

Raven Chant · Of The Wand & The Moon: youtu.be/AD2Geicit4k

 

...In the silence true consecration comes...

In this silence there shall be a raven chant

And in the chant - all solace

And in this solace true consecration comes

Come on night

Come on moon

Come on winter

And the dead of light

Come on tears

Come on love

Come on cries

In the abode af night

Come on night

Take me home

Come on love

Sing alone

To this Raven chant

Of loss and wore

Raven night

Take me home

In this dawning of the raven tear

Where wolf crave for night

And in that night a chant shall rose

In the temple of dawn..

  

I wish you beautiful, inspiring, safe & protected times & an utterly awesome & cool weekend !

 

╱╲LPHΛ

 

10/10/2020

These cookies are probably the largest set I have made in a hurry. There are approximately four and a half dozen here. I started baking at seven in the evening because I HAD to go pick of some furniture yesterday out of town and it turned into a long trip...Anyway, two and a half hours of decorating after the baking, plus about an hour this morning adding the finishing touches with my food color pen out me in at right about 4 1/2 hours total decorating and baking time. Although I don't hate these, I had much grander plans for these that didn't pan out because I didn't prioritize very well. Most notably, I would change the handcuff chain design. But I will save that for next time. Moral of the story, don't wait until seven in the evening to start on a batch of cookies, LOL!

 

That said, these were for a man who is graduating from the police accademy today.

The year 1936 brought forth an automotive gem, the Ford Model 68, a vehicle that not only captured the essence of its era but also pushed the boundaries of design and innovation. Born from the storied assembly lines of the Ford Motor Company, this classic car emerged during a time when America was finding its footing after the Great Depression. As a testament to resilience and forward-thinking, the Model 68 showcased Henry Ford's commitment to affordable yet stylish transportation for the masses. One particularly intriguing fact about this model is that it was among the first to offer a glimpse into streamlined design, which would dominate the automotive industry in the years to come.

 

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Style and Substance

The exterior of the 1936 Ford Model 68 exuded elegance with its teardrop-shaped headlamps and a bold, v-shaped grille that commanded attention. The car's sleek lines and rounded fenders were a departure from the boxy shapes of earlier models, hinting at the aerodynamic future of automobile design. Inside, owners were greeted with an interior that prioritized simplicity and functionality without compromising on quality. Luxurious touches like mohair upholstery and wood-grain accents spoke volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. Technologically, the Model 68 stood out with its flathead V8 engine, a marvel that offered unprecedented power and reliability to everyday drivers. Color options ranged from Washington Blue to Cordoba Tan, with many buyers favoring darker hues that accentuated the car's sophisticated silhouette. Available in various body styles including coupes, sedans, convertibles, and even wood-paneled station wagons known as "Woodies," it was the Deluxe Roadster that often stole hearts with its irresistible blend of performance and panache.

 

Performance-wise, the 1936 Ford Model 68 was no slouch. Its V8 engine could propel it to top speeds that were impressive for its time, while acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in a manner that could best be described as spirited for a pre-war car. On various driving conditions, from bumpy rural roads to newly paved highways, the Model 68 handled with poise and assurance. Drivers often reveled in the throaty rumble of the flathead V8 as they navigated through their journeys, enjoying a tactile connection with their machine that modern vehicles struggle to replicate.

 

The 1936 Ford Model 68 stands as more than just another vintage vehicle; it is a symbol of innovation during times of adversity and a precursor to modern automotive design philosophies. Its legacy is etched into history books and continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts around the globe who are captivated by its story and enamored by its character.

For the railroads, the holidays see high demand in rail traffic, thus running more trains and prioritizing trains more than others. A good example of this is UP’s southbound I-5 corridor stack train as during the holidays it becomes high priority. Though usually running under IBRLC (or during 2023 ISELC) the I symbol gets changed to a Z, which identifies the train as high priority. Seeing this train, it was clear that they were high priority as they wasted no time getting to Los Angeles, keeping themselves right on the edge of the speed limit. Soon after the holidays, the symbol would revert back to an I train until the next holiday season.

It's nice getting their A330 freighters however they plan to retire the A300s by end of 2024 so I need to prioritize photos for the one or two I still haven't gotten photos of yet.

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.

RL hit you in the pocket, but you still want a affordable SL. Compromise by prioritizing what you want out of your Second Life.

 

For me, my children are number one. Where we live, shop, and socialize with like minded people. They are the focus of my decor, and all other household or landscaping, revolves around them.

 

This is just the basics. A few placemats, pillows, chair or shelves will be added AFTER decorating the nursery.

 

I challenge you to go lower, or be creative and go as LOW as YOU want. Good Luck.

Follow the money. The size of the investment BNSF made in the 2020s to increase the capacity of the former Santa Fe double track CTC Needles Subdivision in California’s Mojave Desert is a good indicator of the value of today’s intermodal franchise to the company. West from Needles near the Colorado River (475 feet elevation), the railroad climbs a steady 1.4% grade for almost 30 miles through a pass in the Dead Mountains and around the north end of the Piute Mountains to the summit at Goffs (2580 feet elevation). Beginning in the 1980s, growing traffic resulting from globalization created long heavy intermodal trains that overwhelmed the existing infrastructure. All westbounds were limited to the progress that the slowest westbound train made climbing Goffs Hill. By 2023, BNSF completed a third mainline track from West Needles to East Goffs at a cost of $155 million.

 

Prior to 2023, the BNSF Dispatcher in Fort Worth would use the siding at Goffs just west of the summit to prioritize trains. The last few minutes of evening sun glints on a meet at East Goffs. An eastbound intermodal dims his headlight and holds for a westbound cresting Goffs Hill, then glides east and begins the long descent to Needles.

 

For a description of West Goffs see:flic.kr/p/2qYN23u

For someone who embarks on a long trek and likes photography, the backpack becomes a battleground of priorities. Do you prioritize your creative vision or your aching shoulders? Rising before dawn to start our day, I knew I would miss not having a tripod, especially with my unsteady hands. After a few shots you convince yourself the shaky, foggy footage is a reflection of how your walking trip feels anyway, ethereal and slightly disoriented.

 

I think this image turned OK and hope you like it.

 

www.flickr.com/photos/138501711@N06/54251596922/in/explor...

 

if you want to walk with me from Santiago to Seville here is a short video, mainly of the back of my head ;)

 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=86fJDWtNLgI&t=116s

This view captures Islands Brygge, a harbor bath complex in Copenhagen. Opened in 2006, it quickly became popular with locals and tourists alike offering five pools of varying depths. The area has undergone significant redevelopment transforming former industrial waterfront into a vibrant public space. It’s a great example of how Copenhagen prioritizes accessible urban spaces for recreation.

New friends are a curious breed. Made a bunch this year, some I talk to occasionally, some I see regularly. But I've been around long enough to know that it's all still tenuous, these friendships. Some may simply fade, some may sour. Some folks move away, or move on. You could talk to someone every few days on IM, for weeks, and they they simply disappear. Or a random person you met at a random event becomes a regular breakfast date, someone you look forward to talking with. Most of my new friends, like Olivia here, I've met through Flickr. Which is another strange aspect to it all. You get to know people through Flickr, their photos, bits of their lives and personalities, but it's only as much as they reveal, and what you can read between the lines, if they bother to write any, that is. Back to my recurrent theme of not knowing someone until you actually spend time with someone.

 

Used to be, when I was younger, I just assumed that when I met someone, and we became friends, that was that. Friendship initiated, friendship secured. But time moves on, things happen, you drift, you prioritize friendships continually.

 

There are folks I'd met in the first part of '07 who have already been...well, cycled out. There are folks I've met on Flickr who have disappeared, no longer posting, or writing.

 

So I'm used to it, but I'm always hopeful that the people I meet will be folks I know for the long run. So every step towards friendship is tentative, guarded. Don't IM too much, don't invest too much too fast. But be optimistic.

 

Sheesh, this is long. I'm rambling. Welcome to 4:45am on a Monday.

 

Here's Olivia, at our first meeting, where I felt weird walking around in her house, taking it all in while she changed out of her work clothes. Wondering how long it'll take to get to that comfort zone where the Good Shots live. Then having the conversation flow easy and the first shot be good, realizing things are gonna work out just fine.

 

Here's to New Friends.

Saturday night cruising in Paprihaven. At Rummy's Freight and Repair,* a special customer arrived a few days ago. None other than John Neverjohnnie,** the fabulously wealthy and famous Paprihaven bowling pins magnate, brought in his Formula GT Roadster with the passenger side damaged*** from the now infamous 'Invader Incident'.****

 

He now returns to inspect the work, accompanied by the superbly stately Midge Myrtle.

 

"There you go, Mr. Neverjohnnie."

 

"Fine work, Rummy. Just as I hoped."

 

"Like we said, we had to use our LikeStock® fabricator for the initial build and then, since we were using your car as the model, we worked out some imperfections that had already been there. She's factory spec."

 

"Indeed. As agreed, triple the bill. I appreciate your prioritization and fast work."

 

"Thank you, Mister Neverjohnnie. We're always grateful for your business. Watch out for those custom rigs."

 

"Hah! He couldn't get it out of impound so I bought it."

 

"You going to drive it??"

 

"No, just to keep it off the streets."

__________________________

A year of the shows and performers of the Bijou Planks Theater.

 

New-Ray Toys

Warehouse

Mijo

American Diorama

 

Hot Wheels Crack Ups

Basher II

Stamper 2-Pack

1984, Hong Kong

Mattel

 

M2 Machines Model Kit

Release 33

Holley 1971 Chevrolet Camaro SS 396

2017, China

 

Hot Wheels Crack Ups from the way-out astounding collection of the stellar Andrew P. Yanchus!

StarRunn

 

* First seen back in BP 2020 Day 172!

www.flickr.com/photos/paprihaven/50024685612/

 

** John Neverjohnnie first seen back in BP 2021 Day 170!

www.flickr.com/photos/paprihaven/51258211639/

 

*** The Invader, as seen last week!

www.flickr.com/photos/paprihaven/52725306907/

 

**** Their work on the Camaro SS began in BP 2023 Day 28!

www.flickr.com/photos/paprihaven/52654830813/

Yitzhak Rabin (March 1, 1922 – November 4, 1995, Israel)

Yitzhak Rabin was an Israeli military leader and politician who became one of the most important figures in Israel’s modern history. Born in Jerusalem in 1922, he served as a general in the Israeli army and played a key role in the country’s wars and defense. Later, he became Prime Minister of Israel, leading the nation during a critical time of conflict and political tension.

Despite his military background, Rabin chose the path of peace. He recognized the need to negotiate with the Palestinians and sought to end the long-standing conflict between Israel and its neighbors. He signed the Oslo Accords, a historic agreement aimed at establishing a framework for peace and mutual recognition. Rabin’s efforts represented a bold choice: to prioritize diplomacy, dialogue, and the acknowledgment of the rights of all human beings over continued war and domination.

On November 4, 1995, Rabin was assassinated by an Israeli extremist during a peace rally in Tel Aviv. His murderer, Yigal Amir, opposed Rabin’s pursuit of peace and saw his efforts as a threat to Israel’s nationalist and militaristic agenda. Rabin’s assassination was not only a personal tragedy but also a symbolic act that confirmed the resistance within Israel to peace and demonstrated how internal forces can uphold a state built on war rather than reconciliation.

Reason for assassination:

Rabin was killed because he chose peace over war. His vision of coexistence and recognition of Palestinian rights was seen as a betrayal by those who wanted to maintain a system of domination and militarism. His death marked the end of a real opportunity for peace in Israel and highlighted the power of war-driven forces within the state that continue to influence its policies to this day.

Purpose of this series:

This series of portraits honors historical figures who died for the people, for justice, and for the truth. It is meant to awaken young minds, inspire reflection, and encourage viewers to recognize the sacrifices made by those who dared to oppose oppression, challenge violence, and fight for the rights of all human beings. Each image serves as a reminder that standing for peace often comes at the highest cost, and that remembering these sacrifices is essential to resisting injustice.

After 15 years of traveling to our vacation house near Yosemite, I was finally provided the situation to take a photo of this beautiful piece of road outside Mariposa, California. Fall colors descended upon the foothills, it was a slightly cloudy day, AND I was headed to town anyway.

 

I used my birding camera (Nikon P950) to get the compressed view of this. I shot in RAW and processed in LightRoom. I did clone-out a power line and an ugly realtor sign, but still happy with how this turned out. I hope to sell this photo to raise money for a rusty 1993 Chevy Silverado with a gun rack in order to fit-in with the locals in the area. Apparently, I'll also need to develop a smoking habit and change my political affiliation.

 

I hope your Thanksgiving weekend was a good one (if American) and you were able to get some downtime as well. I haven't had a whole lot of downtime these past couple of years... just prioritizing things differently.

I am at last happy to announce to you all my LEGO A-4E Skyhawk MOC – in John S. McCain III’s livery. If anyone reading has been following me for a long time – first off, I thank you sincerely for your support – some may remember the A-4E I built quite some time ago now, also in John McCain’s livery. This one is pretty much a ground up rebuild of my initial Skyhawk and is for the most part entirely a novel design.

The model itself, in terms of features, has retractable landing gear, space for a minifigure in the cockpit (BARELY), and deployable airbrakes. Due to the construction of the wing and the standards I wanted to prioritize for looks, I did not incorporate working flaps or leading edge slats like I had initially planned. However, like I said, my priority if in doubt was nailing the look and accuracy of the model on display – and I feel I have approximated that to the best of my current abilities… though I know I can always improve! Let me know your thoughts though!

 

Front façade of Eutin Castle from brick in the district town of Eutin, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany

 

Some background information:

 

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.

 

The castle park was 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.

 

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.

As Norfolk Southern continues to slowly but surely replace the vintage CPLs which are still left here in Virginia, particularly in the Shenandoah Valley, it was time to stop making excuses, and prioritize shooting them. A buddy joined me for 2 days of a wild mission shooting sunrise to last light. Having already shot Pkin, we opted to go for Vesuvius upon learning that 11Z was coming our way. The storm clouds were rolling in, and the shadows were getting long, as we nervously awaited 11Z's arrival. As they rolled through, we were treated to absolutely spectacular late afternoon lighting in this legendary location. Fans of O. Winston Link may recall he shot a few of his scenes here in Vesuvius, Virginia, and it is today just as beautiful, rural, and peaceful as it was back in the days of N&W steam railroading. I will be back out trackside soon no doubt, but without any pretense of being owed any luck. The train Gods owe me nothing.

When CASE introduced the 200 Series loader/backhoes, they were building on decades of experience with machines designed for farms, small contractors, and rural municipalities. These weren’t the giant industrial diggers you see on major construction sites today — they were compact, versatile workhorses meant to do a little bit of everything. In many small towns, a single CASE 200 machine could be found digging trenches, clearing ditches, loading gravel, and tending to the everyday needs of the community.

 

The 200 Series carried the classic CASE look of the era: squared‑off sheet metal, a tall stance, and that unmistakable industrial yellow. The machines were built around a sturdy diesel engine, a strong hydraulic system, and a simple operator’s station that prioritized visibility and reliability over comfort. They were designed to be repaired in the field, with parts that could be swapped, welded, or adjusted by anyone with a bit of mechanical sense.

 

What made the 200 Series special was its balance. The front loader offered enough lift for gravel, manure, soil, and snow, while the rear backhoe provided digging power for trenches, culverts, and farm repairs. For many operators, it was the first machine that truly felt like two tools in one — a compact excavator and a small loader wrapped into a single, dependable unit.

 

Across rural North America, machines like the CASE 210, 220, and 230 became fixtures on farms, in logging camps, and in small public works yards. They were the kind of equipment that stayed in service for decades, patched and repainted, their engines still chugging steadily long after newer models arrived. Even today, you’ll find them tucked behind barns, parked beside fields, or resting in equipment yards — machines that earned their keep and carry the marks of a lifetime of work.

 

The CASE 200 Series isn’t just a piece of machinery. It’s part of the story of how rural communities built and maintained themselves — one trench, one load of gravel, one long day’s work at a time.

  

Thank you kindly for visiting—faves and comments are always deeply appreciated. ~Sonja

Copyright Susan Ogden

 

It is still a bit chilly here so Sunday afternoon was a perfect day to spend communing with the critters at the NC Aquarium. I could spend hours in the Jellyfish area, in complete zen. I think my whole being is totally relaxed in this room watching these floating and ethereal creatures. I am betting my breathing and blood pressure are slower and lower in there!

 

They really should have hammocks in that room...It is SO relaxing! I am thinking that I should have a tank of them...AND an octopus tank (with a locking lid since they are so smart and sneaky!) in my bedroom because I am inclined to believe my insomnia would be nonexistent if I did! For now I will rely on my sound machine that plays a dozen different soothing sounds ...and is always set on the sound of the waves of the ocean hitting the beach. It is helping somewhat.

 

It is time for bed...tomorrow I have a busy day, but one that will get things accomplished! I am now in 3 shops here...with the possibilities of a fourth in the next week or so! Exciting times...mixed with a touch of anxiety at being able to keep up with it all! I think I will need lessons in prioritizing! Otherwise, making dreams come true will turn into making them “Be careful what you wish for” instead!

Close quarters expert Harper Barron has manifested symptoms of belligerent behavior, perhaps due to an error in her programming or a faulty Hero Core. Reports from her teammates state that her enjoyment of fighting has lead to failures in completing missions, as she prioritizes violence over successfully capturing villains and protecting citizens.

 

Her current location is unknown, but anonymous witnesses have reported seeing her in the Gladiator Arena of planet Bolawoo III.

 

Further psychological examinations are necessary in order to accurately estimate how dangerous she is. She is equipped with a lightweight body armor and a Quaza-Powered Ram Gauntlet, engaging at a distance is strongly advised.

 

Great Mask of Intangibility by @galva_nize_

Gauntlet weapon inspired by @ems_mocs ' Tony Stone and Arcane's Atlas Gauntlets

19 people in a tiny textile shop in Old Delhi, India.

 

Family shops and businesses are vital to modern India's economy, deeply rooted in tradition and cultural values. These enterprises, often passed down through generations, dominate sectors like retail, manufacturing, and services, providing employment and fostering entrepreneurship. They build strong, personal relationships with customers and suppliers, prioritizing long-term growth and stability over short-term profits.

 

In contrast, Western nations tend to emphasize individualism and corporate structures, leading to a higher reliance on professional management and large, publicly traded companies. Cultural differences, such as the importance of family and community in India, allow family businesses to thrive, whereas Western regulatory environments and market dynamics often favor larger corporations. This cultural and economic context underscores the unique resilience and significance of family-run enterprises in India.

Here is.. how I dispose of trash?

 

" Take out the trash of bad impressions before they stink up your life.

 

Prioritize, complete, and surround yourself with quality people to work with.

 

Keep your valuable energy focused on creating good artworks and working with those who are professional and worthy of your creation and time. "

 

ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ

 

Quickly Escaping Unpleasant Tasks

 

" While we may not have control over the quality of people we work with, we do have the power to choose who we surround ourselves with. It's important to strive for positive, motivated colleagues who can contribute to a healthy and productive work environment.

 

When it comes to unpleasant tasks, it's best to finish them as quickly as possible, dump the trash, and move on to more enjoyable work with better quality people. "

 

🎧 Mood 🎧

www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcuGjQghM_g

 

♫♪... F*u and your friends that I will never see and work with again.. ♫♪

 

ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ

 

CREDIT for " THE OUTFITS " >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

MEVA !!!!!

 

Meva - Daphne Blazer

www.flickr.com/photos/161478161@N05/52828395352/in/photos...

 

Meva - Kylie Top and Pants

www.flickr.com/photos/161478161@N05/52828573957/in/photos...

 

Meva - Roller Girl Gacha Outfit

Right now I am working on untangling my knots. I am generally a disorganized person, I am very impulsive and a bit messy, I put things off, I get myself worked up and stressed out over things that I could have taken care of days (sometimes weeks) prior. I procrastinate and then I have stress dreams, where even the deepest levels of my brain are reminding me that I have things to get done. I pull myself in many different directions until I am in tangles and knots. Ryan reminds me every time this happens that I always find my way out of it, I always get the things done that need to be done. My process is just a little messy.

 

So I want to take some time now to untangle myself, organize my life and pace myself. I am keeping lists of what I have to do, I am prioritizing, budgeting, (or at least trying to) and just giving my life a good clean up overall so I can be a less stressed person. Not sure if it is working, but it's a start right? And a good way to start off my senior year of college, to boot.

 

So wish me luck!

Song my love Dedicated to me. Its so nice to finally be someones everything. To be treated good and prioritized. Very thankful you can see and want the love I offer ♥

 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=r33-nCl8ZmM

 

♬ Bring her flowers on a weekday

Run a bath just to let her know

Just to let her know she means the world to me

Make her dinner when she's home late

Pull her close when she's getting cold

Just to let her know she means the world to me.

 

Tell me, how did I ever get so lucky

That she wasn't with somebody?

So I could have her for my own, my own, my own

Thinking, how could anyone pass the feeling

Of the sound of her footsteps leaving?

Walking all alone, alone, alone.

 

Now she's beside me, can't stop thinking

Why did you ever think to let go?

Not complaining, I'm just saying

Your loss is mine to hold

So to the man who let her go

I'm thanking you the most, you the most.

 

I would never wanna hurt her

I would never wanna make her cry

Now I got the chance to make it right, oh

She would never have to ask for

For me to make the time

The time to spend with her, and only her.

 

So won't you tell me, how did I ever get so lucky

That she wasn't with somebody?

So I could have her for my own, my own, my own

Thinking, how could anyone pass the feeling

Of the sound of her footsteps leaving?

Walking all alone, alone, alone.

 

Now she's beside me, can't stop thinking

Why did you ever think to let go?

Not complaining, I'm just saying

Your loss is mine to hold

So to the man who let her go

I'm thanking you the most, you the most

You the most, you the most, you the most

You the most, you the most, you the most (oh, oh).

 

Oh, oh, oh whoa

To the man who let her go

I want you to know

I'm thanking you the most, you the most! ♬

Perched atop the catwalk at Jacksonville’s Main Street Bridge, almost 60 feet above heavy traffic racing below my feet, I spotted an unusual sight; A brand new shiny FEC OCS Train.

 

This later turned out to be a joint business meeting between CSX and FEC executives. They would pause briefly on the Strauss Trunnion Bascule bridge before returning to the Dufford Transportation Center.

 

Profiled as Z101, it ran out of Bowden yard first and then west to CSX’s Kenneth C. Dufford Transportation Center off McDuff Ave. Presumably they would discuss financial matters and work to prioritize new projects.

Three girls in Jaipur

 

selected by the national geographic daily dozen. (february 2010, week 2)

 

published on fninsight fsinsight.org/insights/detail/is-there-a-financial-payoff...

An airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system is an airborne radar early warning system designed to detect aircraft, ships, vehicles, missiles and other incoming projectiles at long ranges, as well as performing command and control of the battlespace in aerial engagements by informing and directing friendly fighter and attack aircraft. AEW&C units are also used to carry out aerial surveillance over ground and maritime targets, and frequently perform battle management command and control (BMC2). When used at altitude, the radar system on AEW&C aircraft allows the operators to detect, track and prioritize targets and identify friendly aircraft from hostile ones in real-time and from much farther away than ground-based radars.[1] Like ground-based radars, AEW&C systems can be detected and targeted by opposing forces, but due to aircraft mobility and extended sensor range, they are much less vulnerable to counter-attacks than ground systems.[2]

 

AEW&C aircraft are used for both defensive and offensive air operations, and serve air forces in the same role as what the combat information center is to naval warships, in addition to being a highly mobile and powerful radar platform. So useful and advantageous is it to have such aircraft operating at a high altitude, that some navies also operate AEW&C aircraft for their warships at sea, either coastal- or carrier-based and on both fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms. In the case of the United States Navy, the Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye AEW&C aircraft is assigned to its supercarriers to protect them and augment their onboard command information centers (CICs). The designation "airborne early warning" (AEW) was used for earlier similar aircraft used in the less-demanding radar picket role,[3] such as the Fairey Gannet AEW.3 and Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star, and continues to be used by the RAF for its Sentry AEW1, while AEW&C (airborne early warning and control) emphasizes the command and control capabilities that may not be present on smaller or simpler radar picket aircraft. AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) is the name of the specific system installed in the American Boeing E-3 Sentry and Japanese Boeing E-767 AEW&C airframes, but is often used as a general synonym for AEW&C.[4][5]

 

General characteristics

 

Wellington Ic "Air Controlled Interception" showing rotating radar antenna

Modern AEW&C systems can detect aircraft from up to 400 km (220 nmi) away, well out of range of most surface-to-air missiles (SAM). One AEW&C aircraft flying at 9,000 m (30,000 ft) can cover an area of 312,000 km2 (120,000 sq mi). Three such aircraft in overlapping orbits can cover the whole of Central Europe.[6] AEW&C system indicates close and far proximity range on threats and targets, help extend the range of their sensors, and make offensive aircraft harder to track by avoiding the need for them to keep their own radar active, which the enemy can detect. Systems also communicate with friendly aircraft, vectoring fighters towards hostile aircraft or any unidentified flying object (UFO).

The Toledo Sub sees plenty of trains, but the highest priority train isnt Automotive or Intermodal, it's, weirdly, a road local. J782 and J783, Cincinnati-Lima, OH turn, is time sensitive due to their customers needs. Their clientele include Cargill and AK Steel as well as freight interchanges with the I&O, CF&E, and NS.

 

As a plus for railfans, these locals tend to have the good stuff leading. Today's J train was no exception. Lettered as J983, CSXT 6479 and a GP30 RDSLUG lead the local out of Dayton for Cincinnati.

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.

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.

 

This image is best viewed in Large screen.

 

Thank-you for your visit, and any faves or comments are always sincerely appreciated.

Sonja

Stenfiskerkajen is a notable architectural site located in Sweden, particularly recognized for its modern design and functionality. The building reflects contemporary architectural trends, characterized by clean lines, large windows, and an emphasis on natural light. It often incorporates materials such as glass and steel, blending harmoniously with its surrounding environment. The structure serves various purposes, including residential and commercial spaces, contributing to the urban landscape and enhancing community interaction. Its design not only prioritizes aesthetic appeal but also sustainability, showcasing innovative solutions for energy efficiency and environmental impact.....

Hello Everyone!

We are searching for new/fresh talents to help us promote our brand.

Please touch the blogotex access point at our reception:

maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Glass%20Beach/82/41/20

 

The search will begin now until march 31st. Male bloggers Prioritized

 

Looking forward to seeing all of your amazing blogs ♥

The DC Tower 3 in Vienna, part of the Donau City Towers complex, reflects a strategic urban development decision that prioritizes economic viability and phased construction. Built before DC Tower 2, DC Tower 3 was designed to cater to immediate office space demands and to establish a financial and business hub along the Danube River. The DC Tower 2 is meanwhile under construction and will be finished at 2026.

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.

Update! Today I finally had time (and sunlight) to go outside and take pictures. I spent about an hour playing on this jungle gym and in the leaves. This project helps me have fun sometimes... it's strange how that works... But anyway, school this week has been good. I've been prioritizing my homework for the next week and that's working out really well. Swim practice starts on Monday - I'm nervous but stoked. There are also try outs on Sunday for a club volleyball team.. I'm still not sure if I want to try out yet. My photography teacher told us about a trip to Costa Rica that's opening up to her students. I'd really like to go, but it's just a matter of convincing my parents. Lately I've realized how much I miss reading, so from now on I'm going to try to read an hour a night. How was everyone's week?

 

142.365

Ivan Brooks Sr Jan 25

The Fence Dweller

Before all of this, even after all of this, I will forever be a patriot.

Before the poet in me matured and I started talking like a parrot,

The dogs of war barked and I climbed exile's fence on my own

And there I have dwelled, with nothing tangible to bring me down.

 

I have been on this fence so long and I will remain there forever!

Especially since the premature child is still in the incubator.

From this vantage point, I have learned never to trust any politician

I've always looked at them with mistrust, disdain, and suspicion,

 

Before all of this and before I ran and climbed the exile fence,

I was once mercilessly flogged, dragged and made to dance

By drugged up and coerced child soldiers with a rubber cable

They tied and spread me like a dog on the market table

I watched as innocent people were killed with a rusty knife

There, I vowed to become a fence dweller for the rest of my life!

 

I've been a patriot all my life but I have done it from here..safer.

From here I have seen blood spilled, hearts broken, hopes dashed,

progresses stalled, mullions embezzled, promises broken, lies told

people changed, games played, party surfed, interests prioritized.

And from this vantage point, I have learned never ever to trust any politician

I have always been right...though I have looked on with disdain, suspicion,

and operated with caution but through it all, I have remained a true patriot and a fence dweller.

 

33428 Harbour Ave.

Mission, 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.

 

When you boil it all down there are just three fundamental ingredients are that are the basis for every photograph. They are the subject, the light, and the air. The one that we usually spend the most time with and give the most importance to is the subject. It is what we aim our cameras at. Particularly in landscape photography I am as guilty of this prioritization as the next photographer as I can spend a great deal of time scouring the countryside looking for just the right thing to anchor my image. This fixation pervades all forms of photography.

Of course the subject and light are what we spend the most time obsessing on as these two ingredients get their share of attention when it comes to viewing an image. All well and good but in my opinion they are by no means the icing on the cake that can push an image to greater levels of visual strength.

Of the three most important ingredients in making a photograph, air is the one that is continually the most neglected. Huh? Air? Ok, think about it. Regardless of whether the location is outdoors or in or even what lens will be used, air is involved.

To what degree you employ this ingredient in your image making can have a significant impact on the visual outcome. Awareness of its presence is crucial in order to make it become visually alive and incorporated into your composition. While reviewing my images I have found that the ones that really visually jumped out and tugged on my emotions all incorporated air (clouds, fog, mist, rain, etc.). These really made the magic in the image.

In the attached image, the location is Milford Sound in New Zealand and the initial focus subject that the composition if built around is a simple driftwood log that is sized to scale well with the rest of the elements in the composition. The composition is well balanced to create good eye movement around the space. Illumination helped to set the tone and color of the light against which I tried to match the tone and texture of the water.

But it is the air, the fog and clouds that gives the image a great sense of visual depth and richness. By incorporating and giving the clouds and fog sufficient space in the frame they become the visual icing to the composition’s cake. So the next time you are in the field give some awareness to the conditions of the air and find ways to use it to your greatest advantage. There is an old adage that I have clung to over the years and it has never let me down. It goes like this: “When the weather turns bad the photography gets great.”

Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024

 

The Seattle Public Library – Central Library is the main headquarters of the city's library system and one of Seattle's most important architectural landmarks.

 

Innovative Architecture: The library, opened in 2004, is globally famous for its avant-garde design. It was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas (OMA) and partner Joshua Prince-Ramus.

 

Unique Design: The 11-story building is characterized by its angular exterior appearance, clad in a steel and glass net, and an interior that prioritizes function and flexibility. The design aimed to fundamentally rethink the role of libraries in the digital age.

 

Internal Organization: The interior is notable for the "Book Spiral," a continuous spiral ramp that houses the entire non-fiction collection, organized in an unbroken sequence.

 

Significance: Beyond its function as a centre of knowledge, the Central Library is a global icon of contemporary architecture and a highly valued civic space by residents.

Detroit, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024

 

Andy's Pharmacy On Grand is a long-established, independent community pharmacy in Detroit known for its personalized, customer-focused service.

 

Location and Community Service: It is located at 2676 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208. The pharmacy has been proudly serving the Detroit community and surrounding areas (including Downtown, Midtown, and Highland Park) for over 60 years.

 

Services Offered: In addition to traditional prescription filling, the pharmacy provides a wide range of health and logistical services, most notably:

 

Health Testing: Rapid testing for Flu, Strep, and COVID-19.

 

Immunizations: Provision of various vaccines (Flu, COVID-19, etc.).

 

Personalized Care: Medication Synchronization (Med Sync) and consultations with expert pharmacists.

 

Convenience: Services like Delivery, Michigan Lottery, and being an authorized UPS Provider.

 

Typical Hours: The pharmacy is generally open Monday–Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.

 

Philosophy: Its mission is to provide a unique and personalized pharmacy experience with friendly, bilingual staff who prioritize customer well-being.

 

Where did the weekend go? How did we end up at Monday so quickly? An unsolvable mystery that presents itself all too often.

 

Oh well, back to reality today and with reality comes responsibilities. I'm not entirely sure who turned on the email at work but my inbox has been constantly flooded for the past week and a bit. I'm not entirely sure how anyone thinks it's possible to keep up, but what can I do but go through them one at a time and do my best to keep re-prioritizing.

 

Pain in the butt; but it's what they pay me to do, so I'll keep the complaining to a minimum.

 

Hope everyone has had a good start to their week!

 

Click "L" for a larger view.

 

I always used to scoff at people who claimed they were "too busy" to post on Flickr. Well, I've certainly gotten a taste of my own medicine this last week, that's for sure! My job has kept me INSANELY busy and exhausted to boot. I've been getting over bronchitis coupled with recovering from weeks of sleep deprivation, and I've had to do this thing called "prioritizing" with all of my other obligations. New territory for me, believe it or not.

 

I expect things to continue being crazy until my three weeks off begin on 12/22--so I may not be around much until then. After then, though--watch out! :P xx

 

view jeffy large on black!

Danielle Smith wants to deny trans kids access to gender-affirming care and LGBTQ kids access to books with LGBTQ relationships, under the guise of "protecting children".

 

Gender-affirming care is health care and it is SO important. It even saves lives. Likewise, LGBTQ kids knowing that LGBTQ people exist and there's nothing wrong with them is also important and life-saving. What does harm children is making them feel broken, bad, worthless, or unloved for being LGBTQ. What does harm children is denying them health care and prioritizing a desire for who you want a child to be instead of who they actually are, so much that you will sacrifice their well-being and happiness to try to force them to be someone they are not!

 

LGBTQ kids should feel accepted, appreciated, supported and loved! 💙️🌈

 

~Pride Parade 2025

It's a little different than what everyone to the west of me got, but my first CP heritage unit was a worthy first train of 2020. After prioritizing my day with a couple of classic lake boats at Point Edward, Ontario, I imagined finding this train somewhere later on and this was the result as 140 comes through Lobo which is just east of Komoka, Ontario.

 

CP 7010 "SD70ACU" nee CP 9153 SD90MAC

The Empire Builder runs through northeast Minneapolis with a pair of ALC-42s and the addition of an Federal Railroad Administration car between the locomotives and baggage car. I have been prioritizing the Borealis for photos lately, so I decided to give the Empire Builder some attention.