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.

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.....

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

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!

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.

Two things occur to me, looking at this photo:

1) I've spent my photographic career prioritizing focus over feeling. If it's blurry, if it's soft, it's always been less-than-perfect, for me. But a shot like this helps me understand the value in the other way of seeing things, that the motion, the Emotion, can be far more powerful than a sharp shot.

and 2) having a blank wall in my apartment allowed for so much experimentation, but also a much greater emphasis on my subject. Didn't have to worry about distracting backgrounds, random objects in the shot, power lines, weird foliage.

Mash these two ideas together, you get this shot, which I've always hesitated to post, but now may be my favorite from that day.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

18th-century south façade of the Château de Kergrist in the municipal area of Ploubezre south of the town of Lannion, Brittany, France

Some background information:

The Château de Kergrist is located in the municipal area of Ploubezre just about 7 km (4.4 miles) south of the town of Lannion. With its almost 3,700 residents, Ploubezre is a community in the French department of Côtes-d’Armor in the very north of Brittany. It belongs to the arrondissement of Lannion. There are another two ruined castles as well as five manor houses in the municipal area of Ploubezre.

The construction of the manor began in the 15th century and continued into the 16th century at the request of the nobleman Jehan de Kergrist and his wife, Gilette le Cozic. At that time, it was a typical manor of Breton Renaissance style, with an octagonal tower flanked by two main wings. A vaulted passage allowed access from the north inner courtyard to the enclosed kitchen garden located to the south. In the 16th century, a second tower was built opposite the first, larger in size and reflecting the family’s prosperity.

At the end of the 16th century, Marie de Kergrist, the last representative of the senior branch, married Jonathas de Kergariou, the lord of Keraël, transferring ownership of the manor. On the eastern side, a classical façade was erected, with a double straight staircase leading to the current French garden. The manor thus became a château. To the south, the façade drew inspiration from its eastern neighbor but was designed in a simpler style.

In the 18th century, the Barbier family, marquises of Lescoët, inherited the Château de Kergrist through marriage to the Kergariou family. However, they had to abandon it during the French Revolution. In the following years, it was sold as a national asset, divided into three parts and pillaged. In 1867, the brothers Charles and Julien Huon de Penanster recovered the estate, which had been reunified reunified by their grandfather and father on behalf of the Barbier de Lescoët family.

They restored the château and its grounds with a 17th-century aesthetic, prioritizing the acquisition of antique furniture, particularly from the 18th century. They also acquired the wood paneling from Beauport Abbey, located near Paimpol, to match the era of the façades' construction. Furthermore, Charles purchased master paintings from Rubens and Giordano as well as 16th-century wooden panels from the reign of Henry II, which he used to craft neo-Renaissance furniture.

Passionate about landscape art, Charles and Julien Huon de Penanster redesigned the four hectares of garden completely to echo the different facades of the property. To the north, the flowerbeds align with the sober Renaissance facade. To the east, a French formal garden, inspired by a design by André Le Nôtre, is displayed on a terrace bordered by a granite balustrade, complementing the 17th-century facade. And finally, to the south, an English garden is arranged in front of an 18th-century "Louis XIV-style" facade.

In 1926, the Château de Kergrist was listed as a national historic monument. In the 20th century, the then owner, Régis Huon de Penanster, created the Jardin des Roches with a desert-like aesthetic, utilizing the natural effect of granite blocks from a previously buried vein. The estate‘s current owner is still the family Huon de Penanster. Both building and the surrounding gardens are open to the public. A visit is highly recommended.

The Château de Kergrist was also the location of some shootings: The filming of the French feature film "Jamais avant le mariage" took place in the gardens, apartments, and mill of the château, whereby the entire Huon de Penanster family joined in the fun of acting during the shoot. In 2012, the TV broadcaster TF1 aired a program filmed at the château called "100 ans de mode" (in English: "100 Years of Fashion"). And in 2015, a remake of the film "Sleeping Beauty" was made in the interiors and gardens of the château.

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

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

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.

World Water Day 2023

The theme of World Water Day 2023 is accelerating change. This theme aims to urge governments, civil society, and individuals to accelerate progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6. To ensure safe drinking, bathing, and using proper sanitation facilities for everyone, we need more action, ambition, and innovation.

The main goal is to fulfill the commitments of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and ensure that Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) are seen as core elements in all sectors. Additionally, the theme explores how to coordinate action across multiple sectors, strengthen the collaboration among stakeholders, and maximize impact.

In 2023, World Water Day will provide an opportunity for people, corporations, and governments to take responsibility for achieving WASH objectives on time. Governments should prioritize investment in infrastructure such as pipes, sewers, wells, pumps, water tanks, and basic maintenance systems.

The UN 2023 Water Conference will be held in New York from 22 to 24 March 2023. By discussing what needs to change, we should create a collective action plan to help us reach our goals faster than ever. Now is the time for each of us to take responsibility for our actions. As a result, we will be able to accelerate the necessary changes needed to improve hygiene standards worldwide. By doing this, every person in the world can access clean drinking water.

Klipvoor Dam

Borakalalo

Near Brits

South Africa

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.”

I can hardly believe it's already October 1st of 2016! This is the anniversary date for me on Flickr, and really, for me as a photographer. For the past 7 years I've been publishing a new pic every day, amounting to over 2 500 at this point. This is when I go through my stats and sort of share my top tens with you, and I usually do it fronting something a bit snapshot-looking, in this case a miniature elephant sculpture at Singapore Zoo. Here's how many views I've received on this date, each year:

2016: 7 984 555

2015: 4 673 535

2014: 2 253 883

2013: 780 541

2012: 418 694

2011: 209 294

2010: 066 318

I didn't quite achieve exponential growth this year, but I'm impressed nonetheless! I don't do much to advertise myself nor do I prioritize exposure, but it's a pleasing bonus to find that people are viewing my stuff. Without further ado, here are my top tens, this time thrown off balance by the handful of body sessions I've done during these previous summers.

Most interesting

1. Sunset Rock Lake I

2. Marina Street Sunset

3. An Empty Platform

4. Dream of Star Bursts

5. Stora Sundby Castle

6. A Trendy Lighthouse

7. Grand Hotel Sunset

8. A Misty Field

9. Burn the Forest II

10. Red Bridge Peninsula I

Most views

1. Nude Swinger Girl (34 513)

2. Hourglass in the Jungle (31 876)

3. A Shy Nymph (30 973)

4. A Dancing Nude (28 881)

5. A Summer Nude (28 757)

6. A Jungle Nude (28 523)

7. A Nude Rejoice (27 837)

8. Sauna Sunset Raft (27 058)

9. In Unveiled Deliberation (26 746)

10. Nude Field Day (26 210)

Most favorites

1. Marina Bay Skyline (194)

2. A Jungle Nude (160)

3. A Tentative Nude (151)

4. The Examined Self (149)

5. Hourglass in the Jungle (148)

6. Old Town Clouds IX (147)

7. Old Town Clouds X (145)

8. Sunbeams in the Dark (144)

9. An Overgrown Boardwalk (142)

10. Marina Bay Sands (140)

Most commented

1. Old Town Clouds IX (82)

2. Great Rainbow Arch (66)

3. Fors Church at Sunset (64)

4. Marina Bay Skyline (63)

5. Late Sunset Island (57)

6. Old Town Scenery (55)

7. Lake of Fiery Clouds (55)

8. A Pavilion on Ice I (54)

9. City Park Ablaze II (52)

10. Fiery Sunset Lands (52)

Renaissance front façade of the Château de Kergrist in the municipal area of Ploubezre south of the town of Lannion, Brittany, France

Some background information:

The Château de Kergrist is located in the municipal area of Ploubezre just about 7 km (4.4 miles) south of the town of Lannion. With its almost 3,700 residents, Ploubezre is a community in the French department of Côtes-d’Armor in the very north of Brittany. It belongs to the arrondissement of Lannion. There are another two ruined castles as well as five manor houses in the municipal area of Ploubezre.

The construction of the manor began in the 15th century and continued into the 16th century at the request of the nobleman Jehan de Kergrist and his wife, Gilette le Cozic. At that time, it was a typical manor of Breton Renaissance style, with an octagonal tower flanked by two main wings. A vaulted passage allowed access from the north inner courtyard to the enclosed kitchen garden located to the south. In the 16th century, a second tower was built opposite the first, larger in size and reflecting the family’s prosperity.

At the end of the 16th century, Marie de Kergrist, the last representative of the senior branch, married Jonathas de Kergariou, the lord of Keraël, transferring ownership of the manor. On the eastern side, a classical façade was erected, with a double straight staircase leading to the current French garden. The manor thus became a château. To the south, the façade drew inspiration from its eastern neighbor but was designed in a simpler style.

In the 18th century, the Barbier family, marquises of Lescoët, inherited the Château de Kergrist through marriage to the Kergariou family. However, they had to abandon it during the French Revolution. In the following years, it was sold as a national asset, divided into three parts and pillaged. In 1867, the brothers Charles and Julien Huon de Penanster recovered the estate, which had been reunified reunified by their grandfather and father on behalf of the Barbier de Lescoët family.

They restored the château and its grounds with a 17th-century aesthetic, prioritizing the acquisition of antique furniture, particularly from the 18th century. They also acquired the wood paneling from Beauport Abbey, located near Paimpol, to match the era of the façades' construction. Furthermore, Charles purchased master paintings from Rubens and Giordano as well as 16th-century wooden panels from the reign of Henry II, which he used to craft neo-Renaissance furniture.

Passionate about landscape art, Charles and Julien Huon de Penanster redesigned the four hectares of garden completely to echo the different facades of the property. To the north, the flowerbeds align with the sober Renaissance facade. To the east, a French formal garden, inspired by a design by André Le Nôtre, is displayed on a terrace bordered by a granite balustrade, complementing the 17th-century facade. And finally, to the south, an English garden is arranged in front of an 18th-century "Louis XIV-style" facade.

In 1926, the Château de Kergrist was listed as a national historic monument. In the 20th century, the then owner, Régis Huon de Penanster, created the Jardin des Roches with a desert-like aesthetic, utilizing the natural effect of granite blocks from a previously buried vein. The estate‘s current owner is still the family Huon de Penanster. Both building and the surrounding gardens are open to the public. A visit is highly recommended.

The Château de Kergrist was also the location of some shootings: The filming of the French feature film "Jamais avant le mariage" took place in the gardens, apartments, and mill of the château, whereby the entire Huon de Penanster family joined in the fun of acting during the shoot. In 2012, the TV broadcaster TF1 aired a program filmed at the château called "100 ans de mode" (in English: "100 Years of Fashion"). And in 2015, a remake of the film "Sleeping Beauty" was made in the interiors and gardens of the château.

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 greatest thing that one can do it to remain calm and focus on the things that are important. Knowing what to prioritize to avoid waste of time and effort.

Follow me on:

| Instagram | | Facebook | | 500px |

Vist my Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/frozenblizzardphotography/

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.

Market Square in Bicester is a historical and central feature of this bustling market town, known for its blend of traditional charm and modern conveniences. Recently, it has been the focus of a significant regeneration project, with a £4.25 million investment aimed at transforming the area into a multi-use community hub. The vision for the square includes reducing the dominance of cars and parking to make way for live arts events, markets, and leisure activities, enhancing the experience for pedestrians and boosting local businesses. This initiative reflects a broader trend in urban design, prioritizing accessible and vibrant public spaces that serve as focal points for community life and economic activity. The transformation of Market Square is set to not only revitalize the heart of Bicester but also to create a model for town centers in the 21st century.

47 Market Square, on the left, is a significant historical structure located in Market Square. Dated 1698, it is a substantial townhouse that has been altered over the centuries, now serving as offices. This building is a testament to Bicester's rich heritage, reflecting the architectural styles and urban development of its time. It's listed on the National Heritage List for England, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate. The Market Square itself is a focal point of the town, often bustling with activity and surrounded by buildings that tell the story of Bicester's past.

Bicester, is known for its blend of rich history and modern retail therapy. The town has a traceable history of over a thousand years and was recorded in the Domesday Book. Today, Bicester is renowned for Bicester Village, a designer outlet shopping center that offers a luxury shopping experience with up to 40% off the original retail price at more than 150 boutiques. It's a destination that combines the charm of the English countryside with the allure of high-end brands, attracting visitors from all over the world. The town is also noted for its eco-town development at North West Bicester and a self-build village at Graven Hill, reflecting its commitment to sustainable living. With excellent rail connections to Oxford, London, Birmingham, and the imminent link to Cambridge, Bicester is a town that honors its past while dynamically moving towards the future.

www.cherwell.gov.uk/info/260/bicester-garden-town/1084/bi...

historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1046458

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicester

The eastbound California Zephyr races east now on main #2 east of Afton. The train ran main #1 out of Creston to get around 2 coal trains waiting at CP 3811. The dispatcher pretty much shut down the railroad the last hour and a half to allow a route for Amtrak to swing from main to main around traffic. Now that Amtrak has dashed by here at Afton, the BNSF will go back to railroading. When Amtrak's westbound #5 gets into the picture after 8pm tonight the operations will be halted again for awhile. A large ABS section of double track is still left from Creston to near Galesburg. This operating system limits the amount of flexibility the dispatcher has to prioritize trains. The BNSF has put in a few CTC crossovers to allow for better flexibility, but large shutdown windows come to allow hotshots to stay moving.

Love the BN coal hopper, probably getting to be less and less of those in service!

" Prioritize What Makes Your Heart Sing.. 💕🎶 "

Life's a breathtaking sprint, not a marathon meant to be bogged down by negativity.

Chase the sunrises, embrace the laughter, and prioritize what makes your heart sing. Don't waste energy on unnecessary feelings or hold yourself hostage to please others. You deserve to be relentlessly happy, and choosing yourself isn't selfish, it's the fuel that propels you towards a life of vibrant possibility.

So, shed the burdens, focus on the light within, and move forward with the fierce joy you were born to radiate... 💕

ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ.-:**★**:-.ღ

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+Aura De La Luna+ Aesthetic Piercing / @ DOLLHOLIC

maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sweet%20Daydream/56/207/29

iNeed - For A QueeN - Gauged XL / Woman Only

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The Cities Of The Twin Big Brothers by Daniel Arrhakis (2021)

With the music : Metatron Omega - Kosmokrator by

Cryo Chamber

Specialized internal security forces were created to track down and locate anyone who jeopardized the governing system or prevailing policies. Whoever was caught was subjected to the action of civic training as they called it, which was nothing more than brainwashing with recurrent psychological evaluations.

Melbourne, AUSTRÀLIA 2023

Swanston Street is one of the most significant and busiest thoroughfares in central Melbourne. It's a predominantly pedestrian and tram-only street, making it highly accessible and vibrant. The street is home to some of the city's most prominent cultural and educational institutions, including the State Library of Victoria. It's a central point for accessing Federation Square, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Melbourne Town Hall. Along Swanston Street, you'll find a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as public art. It's a key hub for student life, with several universities having campuses nearby. The street is a constant hive of activity, featuring street performers and events. Its design prioritizes pedestrians and public transport, reflecting Melbourne's urban vision. Swanston Street is the pulsing heart of the city's civic and cultural life

Just above the roof tops in my suburban neighborhood, South Orlando, Florida.

Above Surbubia On Black

I have been going to my last 10 shots, and clicking on my contacts that have commented on my photos. Quite freeing; I was not aware how many of my contacts have not been around to my pictures. So freeing me up to spend time on contacts who are prioritizing me.

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 this unexpected train showed up.

Mass Coastal train MC2 was thrown into the mix as they came down from Rochester with a string of empty C&D gons for Cassova at Otis that they were going to swap out with loads before heading back north to Rochester and on to Wareham. Here they are holding the main at Taylor at MP 54.9 on the MassDOT owned and Mass Coastal operated former New Have Cape Mainline.

Leading the way is MC 2008, a GP9RM blt. Apr. 1956 as CN 2020. They will hold here for a bit until the passenger consist pulls north from the station into the siding. Once they are clear and the bridge is lowered they 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

A fine example of 20th century American highway design prioritizing convenience for drivers over that of residents of communities "served" by the road.

Mental health can be a 'balancing' skill. November marks Men’s Mental Health Month, a vital time to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and encourage open conversations about the emotional wellbeing of men and boys. Mental health affects everyone, yet societal pressures often discourage men from seeking help or expressing vulnerability. This month, we shine a light on the importance of mental resilience, support networks, and accessible resources—empowering men to prioritize their mental health and reminding us all that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You can find myths and facts about men’s mental health on the Mental Health UK website. The Movember website also has a range of resources and further information on supporting men.

mentalhealth-uk.org/mens-mental-health/

uk.movember.com/

www.instagram.com/flipthescriptbook/

Effective Range: Medium

Classification: Intelligence / Recon

Armaments: (1) SMG-UZ01A, (1) HR-HIBMSU01

One reason why the New Earth Strategic Trust faction is such a dominant force in the Quorus Wars is due to their supreme tactics and efficient strategies and have outfitted specific units like the Eagle EWAC to prioritize recon and intelligence gathering.

The Eagle EWAC is actually based on the NESF-M05E Eagle, a standard combat type reFrame that is deployed in heavy combat areas and serve as a main unit in NEST Special Forces ranks. The EWAC (Early Warning And Control) unit allows for efficient intelligence gathering that is sent to NEST's tactical HQ as data to create up-to-date battle strategies. Extra thrusters were equipped on the Eagle EWAC to give it better mobility in order to move faster to key locations for data scanning as well as avoid enemy units. It is equipped with a light submachine gun (SMG-UZ01A) and a hand cannon mounted on its left arm for emergency combat purposes.

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Build notes:

You can find more about the build in my blog article :D

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More info, WIP details, and other LEGO mechs over at my blog:

messymaru.wordpress.com/

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For those interested in LEGO mech building, I put out an eBook over at Amazon Kindle a while back called Mech Wars Instructional Primer. If you’re looking for a resource that could help you start or even improve your mech building skills, you might find this eBook useful :D

Saturday night cruising in Paprihaven. At Rummy's Freight and Repair,* a special customer has arrived. None other than John Neverjohnnie,** the fabulously wealthy and famous Paprihaven bowling pins magnate. He is accompanied by the always lilting Midge Myrtle.

Mr. Neverjohnnie has arrived with the sad news common to Rummy's customers...

Rummy: *whistles* They t-boned you. Were you in the seat there, little lady?

Midge: I wasn't, thankfully. In fact we were parked.

John: We were at Oodles of Noodles. This guy with a huge red custom rig, with a missile on the top,*** was trying to turn around in the parking lot and backed into my car.

Rummy: Oh, that guy! He totaled about six or seven cars the other night. You won't have to worry about him. Or at least his rig. Cops have it impounded.

John: I know you're always backed up, Rummy, but that's because you and your crew are the best. This is my Formula GT Roadster and I hate to see her so damaged. I don't want to trust anyone else with her but I do need it quickly.

Rummy: We always make an exception for you, Mr. Neverjohnnie. AJ, what's it look like?

AJ: We can move the Camaro out.**** If we prioritize it, we can have it ready in three to five days. I'm pretty sure we're going to need to fabricate you a door. I don't see any salvaging of this one and, if you want it in a hurry, I don't know how long it would take to find a spare Formula GT door sitting around. This is not exactly an auto you find in scrapyards.

John: Well, you have a LikeStock® fabricator, right?

Rummy: Yep. We can have you back to 'good as new' in 3 to 5.

John: Thank you. For your trouble I'll pay triple.

Rummy: Oh, well, that's not-

John: I'll pay triple.

Rummy: Much appreciated, Mr. Neverjohnnie. We'll be in touch.

AJ smiles. A rich customer like John Neverjohnnie paying triple equates to all the employees getting a bonus check. Of course they'll make room for him!

__________________________

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/

On September 27, 2017 - New Orleans' Degas House honored the 100th anniversary of Edgar Degas' death by unveiling a copy of his most famous sculpture, "Little Dancer of Fourteen Years." The 4-foot-tall bronze reproduction will sit in the front courtyard of the Degas House along New Orleans famed Esplanade Avenue. The statue is of recent vintage, cast at a foundry in Europe. It is classified as an "after Degas" rendition, and the unknown sculptor took liberties with Degas' original design.

Edgar Germain Hilaire Degas created 18 paintings, 4 drawings and 5 letters while here in New Orleans in 1872 and 1873. Also, Portraits in an Office, The New Orleans Cotton Exchange painting, the only painting to sell to a museum in Degas' lifetime, was painted here! However, the most important of his New Orleans accomplishments was his change in artistic style, creating (in his words), "Better Art", and re-prioritizing the goal of his youth, to begin a new art movement. This came to pass one year after leaving New Orleans and on his return to Paris, at the birth of the Impressionist Movement of 1874 and beyond!

Maisons des Ilustres! The Houses of the Illustrious!

Degas House is the only home or studio of the French Impressionist Master Edgar Degas, in the world, and is now included in the French Ministry of Culture's network of the Maisons des Illustres or Houses of the Illustrious. Degas House is now in the company of 236 houses in the global network, including the houses of Napoleon, Joan of Arc, Monet, Matisse, Renoir, Ravel (the composer), Louis Braille, Marie Curie, Louis Pasteur, The Chateau of Monte Cristo, French President Mitterrand, President de Gaulle's, Jules Verne; Albert Schweitzer; Victor Hugo; Cezanne and Nostradamus.

Degas House is only the second house in the U.S to be included in the network and is one of only four included that are not in France or one of the French territories!

In a ceremony at the Degas House on July 15th, 2019, French Ambassador Philippe Etienne presented the official marker of the Maisons des Illustres and remarked that the Degas House is now a monument or an institute. The marker was unveiled by the French Consul General, the French Heritage Society, the Lt. Governors Office, the City of New Orleans Mayor's Office, as well as the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce representatives, in a ceremony on October 23rd, 2019. The marker is positioned on the front porch of the house, where it will remain in-perpetuity.

www.degashouse.com/the-inn/about-degas-house.html

Esplanade Avenue

New Orleans, LA

2024

It occurred to me a couple years ago that I was probably an outlier among railroad photographers in that I hadn't captured any of the modern day heritage units. I'm not sure if this is a result of where I'm at in life or what I prioritize when I do get out to shoot but I haven't lensed any of the NS H.U.s nor any UP ones nor any CN ones, not even any of the CP Maroon and Grey. I haven't avoided them or tracked them just figured this unfortunate streak would end at some point.

Well today I found my first. CN's EJ&E tribute engine lead on both L517 and L516 today. Thanks to an early run and the recent time change L516 got here with just enough light for me to get a couple shots as they start their work picking up cars at the autoport.

March 16, 2022.

Note: The location on the map is incorrect. Düsseldorf has not had a zoo since World War II. There is only an aquarium in a completely different location.

Cities frequently champion large investments in their zoos, particularly for new and impressive enclosures for highly intelligent animals like great apes. This public funding is typically justified by citing a combination of economic, educational, and conservation-related benefits. Financially, a major new exhibit is viewed as a significant tourist draw, which is expected to boost visitor numbers, generate revenue for the city, and contribute to the local economy through jobs and associated spending. Furthermore, zoos market these modern habitats as vital tools for public education, fostering empathy for wildlife, and serving as critical centers for species conservation, research, and captive breeding programs to prevent extinction.

However, many critics argue that this public expenditure on new ape enclosures is fundamentally a poor allocation of resources. The primary ethical concern revolves around the confinement of intelligent, socially complex animals whose natural ranges cover vast distances. Despite the improvements in modern, "naturalistic" exhibits, a zoo environment can never replicate the complexity and scale of a great ape's wild habitat, leading to psychological stress, boredom, and abnormal behaviors (stereotypies) in the animals. The immense cost of these projects, sometimes running into tens of millions of dollars, is seen as being disproportionate to the actual conservation benefit delivered.

The financial calculus for public spending is also questionable when examined closely. Zoos often secure public funds by promising a significant conservation impact, yet data suggests that only a small percentage of a zoo's operating budget is actually directed toward in-situ (in the wild) conservation efforts. Instead, the majority of the money is channeled toward maintaining the facility and developing new, costly exhibits - effectively prioritizing the spectacle for visitors over the direct protection of wild populations. This suggests that public funds are largely subsidizing an entertainment and display-focused business model rather than maximizing conservation outcomes.

From an animal rights perspective, the entire practice of housing intelligent great apes for public display is viewed as a moral violation. The argument is that these beings, closely related to humans and capable of complex emotional and social lives, possess a right to liberty that is compromised by permanent captivity, regardless of the enclosure's quality. Moreover, the focus on building extravagant new habitats, while well-intended for animal welfare in a confined setting, draws public attention and significant funding away from what many conservationists argue is the most impactful solution: the direct protection and preservation of the great apes' rapidly diminishing natural habitats.

In conclusion, while a city's investment in a state-of-the-art ape enclosure is driven by understandable aspirations for economic benefit, public education, and modern animal welfare standards, the practice faces strong ethical and financial opposition. Critics contend that for highly intelligent species, no enclosure is adequate, and that public money would be more ethically and effectively spent on alternative models, such as funding well-regulated sanctuaries for non-releasable apes or directing resources to robust *in-situ* conservation efforts that address the root causes of extinction, rather than perpetually funding captive displays.

Happy New Year to all friends and contacts. And anyone else that might drop in. Christmas 2023 was not the relaxing type of Christmas, so I prioritized life over Flickr. Sorry about that.

I hope to be back now, but it will take some days to reach around to all of you. As a farmer with an old barn it takes 6 hours a day just to feed, clean, milk and all the other things to do twice a day in the barn. And then you have the other things to do, which takes time when we get 3 feet of snow over a few days just around Christmas.

I haven' taken much photos either, so I just grab a few snapshots from the last two weeks and present here. And a few jokes from the web.

And a photo that surely isn't for everyone. It is a joke we had in the "Vintrakveld" show at the Christmasparty in Ungdomslaget. It is a dinner and program party with dance to a local band on the fifth day of Christmas. We were a little over 100 people gathered, and the show is about making fun of things that happened last year here in our community.

One joke we had was that the landscape calendars I make sold so poorly last year, so now I have gone all in to raise the sale. I will make a nude calendar! And to get a shock reaction we also showed a photo to drive home the point. And people did laugh! And not just laugh, when the party was over a local lady had got ten farmers to join to create a nude farmers calendar for real to raise money for a good cause next year!! If this joke can end up in a prosject raising money for mens health is it a good thing in my eyes.

In Norway this photo isn't a big deal, but I have no idea how other nations culture will see it so I add just a link to it. Clicking on the link is on your own risk. Old farmers surely isn't something everyone will see! The link: photos.app.goo.gl/iy9dxXRCfwmv3EFv8

There are as always more photos in the first comment

Handarbeit aus Reutlingen

cornelia-pikal.de/

Bring Farbe in Dein Herz ❤

:

October-5- 2021

This World Teachers' Day we are celebrating the strength and resilience of the global educator community.

ps

Yesterday evening, now a selfmade

young man,

told all in the petrol station waiting behind me:

"This Mister Effinger was my favorite teacher!"

-

i felt blessed.

Now i am 64.

♥

■

en.unesco.org/commemorations/worldteachersday

●

"On World Teachers’ Day, we are not only celebrating every teacher. We are calling on countries to invest in them and prioritize them in global education recovery efforts so that every learner has access to a qualified and supported teacher. Let’s stand with our teachers!"

●

Fast 800.000 Lehrerinnen und Lehrer unterrichten an den Schulen in Deutschland.

Eine große Zahl von Menschen, die einen Beruf mit besonderer Verantwortung für die Erziehung und Ausbildung unserer Kinder ausüben.

Die Arbeit der Lehrerinnen und Lehrer zu würdigen und ihnen zu danken – dies steht im Mittelpunkt des Weltlehrertags, der regelmäßig am 5. Oktober rund um den Globus gefeiert wird.

Die Initiative zur weltweiten Würdigung des Lehrerberufes ging auf einen Beschluss von UNESCO, Internationaler Arbeitsorganisation (ILO) und Bildungsinternationale (EI) zurück.

Seit 1994 wird der Weltlehrertag jährlich am 5. Oktober begangen - im Gedenken an die "Charta zum Status der Lehrerinnen und Lehrer", die 1964 von der UNESCO und der ILO angenommen wurde. Seit damals heißt das Ziel: qualifizierte Lehrerinnen und Lehrer für eine qualifizierte Bildung

False Kiva is one of the best kept secrets in Canyonlands. It's legal to go there, but due to its unadvertised and poorly documented route it is very challenging to locate. Unless you have going with someone who’s been, you may be in for a long walk. Searching on the internet brings you just a handful of claims to the route; all of which proved to be as false as its name. For this reason we decided that a sunset shot would be the way to so we could get there in the light. Fortunately, Brad had been before; unfortunately, it was many years ago. As it turned out it wasn't that he knew the way, as much as he was pretty sure we'd gone wrong after about 20 minutes of wandering off course. We’d planned to shoot sunset, rest up for 3 to 4 hours until the moon set and then shoot the stars. So we purposefully packed heavy with gear for handling the 50 degree temperature drop as well as sleeping.

We began our trip down with an understanding that it was about a mile hike down a steep dirt and rock trail. Wrong! We hiked across the top of the bluff for about a mile, following footprints as they were available. In the rock sections which comprised about half or more of the journey we were mostly guessing at the route until we came across another dirt (footprint) area which proved or disproved we were on course. And yes, on more than one occasion we were following incorrect footprints.

In this stretch there was an infrequent cairn, but nowhere near enough to follow. We continued in this manner, meandering on and off the trail until we finally came to the steeper section which descends down the canyon wall. Unfortunately, the beginning of our decent down began on the wrong path and once discovered had to hike back up and around a large crevice in the rock to get back on the right path. In essence, we were on the wrong ledge. Eventually we got back on track. The Cairn-less trail to this point became riddled with them once we reached the correct steep descent, for which we were thankful. Back on the trail for the rest of the trip it went well, though proved to be a lot steeper and further than Brad recalled or we anticipated. I was convinced that I brought about double what I could carry out and began prioritizing what I was going to leave behind. It kind of became the running joke, as every 100’ vertical I’d claim the next piece which would be left behind.

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.

Signed J. J. Bulten in lower right corner. I was unable to locate information about the artist.

This is one of a pair of oil portraits that complement the nautical theme of a newly reopened and redcorated restaurant in the seaside community of Long Beach, Washington.

I like the ships lying offshore in the distance over the seaman's shoulder.

At least three other marine paintings graced the walls. I'd say whoever selected those prioritized genre and availability over quality.

On the other hand, I wish I had found this portrait and its companion piece before the current owner did.

If all the mothers look like this we have a world over populate

humor got to love the craziness...

On a more series thought

MOTHERS DAY has a special meaning to me

few years ago I heard GOD CALL MY NAME most think this is crazy its ok most of you are sleeping ..... today my child thank me for teaching her to be kind and to be kind to others

that's has more more values to me then any thing materialistic from this world I am so proud of you

God gave me the most amazing gift you ..For my 💕 daughter 💕

your Supermom as you call me hehheh .

IT REALLY PAYS OFF YOU PRIORITIZE YOUR ALL IN YOUR CHILDREN AFTER GOD .

a song for you 💕

Van Morrison - Brown Eyed Girl

www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfmkgQRmmeE&t=3s

My version of the rebel repulsor transporter. The angles at the sides are a bit off compared to the source material, but I prioritized the ability to actually seat figures in a realistic way. The top portion can be switched out for a clean look or some handles to seat upt to four pilots/rebels.

Hilma af Klint (Swedish pronunciation; 26 October 1862 – 21 October 1944) was a Swedish artist and mystic whose paintings are considered among the first abstract works known in Western art history. A considerable body of her work predates the first purely abstract compositions by Kandinsky, Malevich and Mondrian. She belonged to a group called "The Five", comprising a circle of women inspired by Theosophy, who shared a belief in the importance of trying to contact the so-called "High Masters"—often by way of séances. Her paintings, which sometimes resemble diagrams, were a visual representation of complex spiritual ideas.

Hilma af Klint never married, lived only with women and prioritized deep friendships with them. She has not left any diaries, letters or rumors about romantic relationships. This has led to modern theories that she was queer or specifically lesbian, additionally claiming that her paintings, views on androgyny and gender fluidity show queer sensibility, and comparing her decision to keep her work secret for 20 years after death to Emily Dickinson.[35][36][37]

In her will, Hilma af Klint left all her abstract paintings to her nephew, vice-admiral Erik af Klint of the Royal Swedish Navy. She specified that her work should be kept secret for at least 20 years after her death. When the boxes were opened at the end of the 1960s, very few persons had knowledge of what would be revealed.

In 1970 her paintings were offered as a gift to Moderna Museet i Stockholm, but the donation was declined. Erik af Klint then donated thousands of drawings and paintings to a foundation bearing the artist's name in the 1970s. Thanks to the art historian Åke Fant, her art was introduced to an international audience in the 1980s, when he presented her at a Nordik conference in Helsinki in 1984.

The collection of abstract paintings of Hilma af Klint includes more than 1200 pieces. It is owned and managed by the Hilma af Klint Foundation in Stockholm, Sweden. In 2017, Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta presented plans for an exhibition centre dedicated to af Klint in Järna, south of Stockholm, with estimated building costs of €6 to 7.5 million. In February 2018, the Foundation signed a long-term agreement of cooperation with the Moderna Museet, thereby confirming the perennity of the Hilma af Klint Room, i.e., a dedicated space at the museum where a dozen works of the artist are shown on a continuous basis.

(Wikipedia)

Hilma af Klint never married, lived only with women and prioritized deep friendships with them. She has not left any diaries, letters or rumors about romantic relationships. This has led to modern theories that she was queer or specifically lesbian, additionally claiming that her paintings, views on androgyny and gender fluidity show queer sensibility, and comparing her decision to keep her work secret for 20 years after death to Emily Dickinson.[35][36][37]

In her will, Hilma af Klint left all her abstract paintings to her nephew, vice-admiral Erik af Klint of the Royal Swedish Navy. She specified that her work should be kept secret for at least 20 years after her death. When the boxes were opened at the end of the 1960s, very few persons had knowledge of what would be revealed.

In 1970 her paintings were offered as a gift to Moderna Museet i Stockholm, but the donation was declined. Erik af Klint then donated thousands of drawings and paintings to a foundation bearing the artist's name in the 1970s. Thanks to the art historian Åke Fant, her art was introduced to an international audience in the 1980s, when he presented her at a Nordik conference in Helsinki in 1984.

The collection of abstract paintings of Hilma af Klint includes more than 1200 pieces. It is owned and managed by the Hilma af Klint Foundation in Stockholm, Sweden. In 2017, Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta presented plans for an exhibition centre dedicated to af Klint in Järna, south of Stockholm, with estimated building costs of €6 to 7.5 million. In February 2018, the Foundation signed a long-term agreement of cooperation with the Moderna Museet, thereby confirming the perennity of the Hilma af Klint Room, i.e., a dedicated space at the museum where a dozen works of the artist are shown on a continuous basis.

(Wikipedia)

Having an extra day of the week has helped me in prioritizing and to catch up on a little R&R. I've also been spending more of my time planning out my daily meals and cooking them at home. If you've followed me long enough, you may already know that I'd tend to cook using fresh, simple ingredients as a form of catharsis. It is following this principle that brings about a form of salutary gratification while enjoying the challenge of finding recipes and trying them out or by making new ones by discovering new ingredients from mindful sources, rather than going out on the town for breakfast; lunch; or dinner.

Here was lunch. I had some fresh ingredients from the local farmers market and I had some buckwheat soba noodles in my pantry. I had added the noodles to a mushroom and ginger broth with a splash of soy sauce. Bean sprouts, mushroom and spinach, were used to garnish my bowl. Also, I had added a soft boiled egg as a finishing touch. I really need to make this again soon.

Well... finally, after all the delays and design challenges, it is done. Here is my B-18A Bolo LEGO MOC, a medium bomber used by the U.S. Army Air Corps primarily in the Pacific during the interwar and early World War II periods. It was a notoriously funkily-proportioned aircraft, with its round-bellied fuselage, its backwards-tapered wings and its odd bombardier canopy shaping at the front; but, all in all, it was a sturdy, rugged bomber (though nothing to write home about as for success in World War II XD). Lots of these were destroyed on the ground during the raids of Pearl harbor, but I really wanted to challenge myself in attempting to construct a plane that isn't all about the glamour and good looks so many beautiful aircraft of its era retained. Having incorporated working landing gear and included string for the wings, I am proud of its functionalities. However, I sadly could not include a working bomb bay due to the construction of its simulated rounded "doors" flush with the fuselage. Nothing opens on the underside, but that was due to the fact of me wanting to prioritize structure and look to the Bolo. Unfortunately, the sacrifice ended up being without a functioning bomb bay... but, overall, the result (for now) is adequate for my liking. But, let me know YOUR thoughts in the comments! Faves are also appreciated, and, as always, have an awesome day! (:

Treehouse Point, Issaquah, WA

Hi. I love taking photographs. I haven't taken one in over a month. For Christmas, Scott acquired a Mamiya C33 for me. I haven't used it. My life seems to have missed a turn, and as result, I am backtracking. I hereby promise myself that instead of working through my lunchbreaks this week, I'll seek out Flickr inspiration & post photographs. Because I deserve these treats. I will also prioritize the taking of photographs. Because one really ought to prioritize doing the things one loves to do.

Miss y'all.

The roaring brisk wind braced against his body. It’s invisible forces pushed him as he stepped closer to the very edge of the cliff. His feet felt cold in the dirt on the frozen ground, holding him hundreds of feet above the river below. The sounds of cascading water and the strong gusts of wind completed with one another. He looked all around, checking to see if he was alone with the world sprawling out for miles in front of him. He was it’s audience and was there to return the favor to a place that’s changed his life - to play a ballad for the land.

It seems like the older we grow, the faster time feels to us. Slowly, we’re getting far too comfortable with hours, weeks, and months perceived as common units of time. You think of an event from not too long ago, to then only realize it’s two and a half years later. The only constant in time is change, it’s not stopping for anyone. It’s far too easy to see the things we take for granted when we think about the past. It’s much more uncommon to realize the true values of the important things in our current lives when they’re something always surrounding us. Just pause, for as however long you need. Prioritize those valuables and get rid of the nonsense.

Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland. 2015

Behind the Scenes - www.zukephotography.com/blog/2015/9/4/behind-the-scenes-p...

Facebook - www.facebook.com/zukephoto

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!

Follow Me: Website • Facebook • Google+ • Twitter • Youtube

What's it like to go to the ends of the Earth? It's unlike any other place in the world, and it's special. Very, truly, special. If you asked most people, they probably would have no real interest in visiting Antarctica even. They have no idea what they're missing out on. But if you've been looking through my photos of the White Continent, you will know, there is oh so much to be seen!

Sometimes I reflect and realize, just how lucky I've been to travel to the places I've gone. Sure, I've made some sacrifices along the way to prioritize my travels as such (do I want a couch or another vacation?), but then I continue to buy into the notion that happiness is derived more from memorable experiences than it is possessions. There is so much to remember about the beauty of Antarctica. It is an experience I dearly want to have again, but no matter what, I will remember it for the rest of my life.

The famed British explorer, Captain James Cook was the first to sail a ship across the Antarctic Circle on January 17th, 1773. This is absolutely mind boggling to me that such a voyage could have even been made over 200 years ago. In comparison I traveled in the relative comfort and safety of the ice-strengthened hull aboard the Akademik Ioffe, which was built in 1989.

So, what is it like to cross the Antarctic circle? Like age, it's just another number. While technically not a fixed line, it's roughly at a latitude of 66°33′46" south of the Equator. Crossing that line is still a milestone few will ever have, but more importantly, the landscape is just so different.

As a whole, the landscape of the continent is quite different to begin with. Waking up, early in the morning to be surrounded by sea ice and gigantic icebergs bigger than homes. It's to awake in a world where film and photos do it no justice. The sense of awe to nature's whims doesn't cease. An ever-changing landscape that continues to reveal herself to you as you travel. It is the wonder and mystery of a continent that exhausts all superlatives about it. May dreams never die, and travels never end.

Blogged: www.aisleseatplease.com/blog/2016/5/24/white-dreamscape