View allAll Photos Tagged up
Another shot of THE DRESS. I'm really liking to cardigan over the dress. I'm quite pale and I burn very easily, so having a way of covering up in the middle of summer is perfect!
UP's westbound drag, the "BDS" or Blue Diamond Special rolls through Spadra, CA on a warm, but clear June 10, 1973 afternoon. The symbol for this Las Vegas to E. LA train comes from the fact that the train would make a pick-up at Arden, south of Las Vegas, of wall board and bulk gypsum, from the Blue Diamond Gypsum Co. plant nearby. Motive power is two U50C's, followed by a SD24B, two "Omaha GP20B's" and a GP30B. Today, you cannot even see the tracks from this vantage point along Pomona Blvd, as there are several very large warehouses in the way.
Looking up inside the Khan Shatyr in Astana, the (new) capital of Kazakhstan.
One of the iconic buildings in the city, and one that my eye was drawn towards in early 2010, on my first visit to Astana. It was still being constructed at that time, but now has settled in to life as a shopping / 'entertainment' centre - rather a dissapointing use in my mind for a fabulous building.
But I suppose at least lots of people visit and use it, so it has life and purpose, and continues to stand out in the city, where 'landmark' buildings appear seemingly daily.
The Khan Shatyr is truly different, and for that reason alone, I like it.
Sitting on the sidewalk, a loose sketch of gate posts and round bay front buildings. Ink freehand sketch on location. Park Slope, Brooklyn.
Made by the Orange Smile Syrup Company of St. Louis, Cheer Up was one of the innumerable locally bottled soft drinks that were around in the 1930's. I would wager that this sign is from about then, maybe immediately post war. I found it on the wall of an old building on the west side of Aurora, Illinois that I believe was a corner grocery at one time.
As always, it pays to get out of the car and wander around.
Recently a group of artist from the DMV area got together for a shoot with model Connie Shih,the photography wasdone by international photographer Svenler.Here is a little about each of the participants in this amazing photoshot , the images that you see here are from the actual production from the shoot . a gallery link will be posted soon and we would like for you to look for some of the images to be published in Europe and the U.S.
A bit abpout the Team:
About Imaginis Photography
My name is Sven Bannuscher and I am the owner and main photographer of Imaginis Photography. I have many years of experience as a photographer and have worked as a professional photographer in Europe (France, Germany, Monaco) as well as in the United States and Canada.
My photos have been published in the Washington Post, Washington Diplomat, Austria Info, and several other national and international publications.
I started my career as a landscape and architecture photographer in Europe before moving to Bethesda, MD. This type of photography requires a high attention to detail which I still utilize today when photographing any type of assignment. No matter if it is a portrait, a wedding, a commercial advertising campaign, editorial fashion, or any other type of photography.
When photographing events such as a Wedding, I combine artistic portrait photography skills with a modern photojournalistic approach. Blending these two concepts together ensures that you will receive timeless photographs.
Business Philosophy
It has been my philosophy to combine the classic perfection of the old masters with an innovative and modern style of photography.
We offer you a package that is tailored to your needs. We make the whole process from beginning to end affordable, fun, and hassle-free. We ensure that you feel comfortable at all times and do not have to jump through any loopholes or run into any walls. You are unique and you deserve a photographer who appreciates and captures your uniqueness.
Mission Statement
To consistently create artistically notable and technically superior photographs of outstanding quality.
Shana Kroiz Jewelry:
Native Baltimorean Shana Kroiz is acknowledged as one of the country's leading experimental enamelists and jewelry educators. Throughout her career, Shana has been involved in teaching and promoting the growth of jewelry as a recognizable art form.
Shana is currently the Special Events and Workshop Coordinator of the Maryland Institute College of Art Jewelry Center, which she founded in 1992, and where she works as an instructor and studio artist. Previously, Shana was the Director of the 92nd Street Y’s Jewelry Center in NYC.
Where to see Shana's work
See Shana's work in publications
"My one-of-a-kind wearable jewelry celebrates ancient forms and the sensuous nature of the human consciousness. These pieces are universal in their appeal and personal in their effect. When worn, the jewelry interacts as sculpture making the body a pedestal."
"Rich colors are created by the primitive use of a brush stroke and layering of experimental enameling or the brilliant colors of patina on silver which reflects the history of the art."
With artistic integrity and fine craftsmanship, Kroiz captures the seduction of color and form while exploring and honoring the human spirit.
MFA,1993; Towson State University
BFA with Honors, major: Metals, minor: Clay; 1990; Parsons School of Design
One-year Intensive Metals Study, SUNY at New Paltz; 1987-1988 (with Robert Ebendorf and Jamie Bennett)
Christopher Schafer's Summary
Christopher Schafer wants you to look your best for every one of life's great occasions. He takes pride in his work and feels that every garment that he creates is a direct representation of himself. Christopher makes sure that all the details are correct and that you get the best fit possible. He will take the time with you to design the best clothing that you have ever owned. This old world work ethic is not going unnoticed, he was voted Baltimore’s Best Tailor by City Paper in 2009, Baltimore Magazine in 2010, and Fashion Awards MD in 2012.
Christopher learned that art of measuring & design to create custom clothing while living in London, a city that had a profound effect on his life. He learned from some of the best clothiers in the world and immersed himself in the English culture. Christopher would frequently visit Seville Row and Jermyn Street to gain ideas and inspiration. The end result was a new style which blends European style and fit with comfort to create clean understated lines. This formula produces fashionable, fitted and comfortable clothing that you will love to wear.
Specialties
Measuring and design of suits, shirts, formal & casual wear.
Christopher Schafer's Experience
Proprietor
Christopher Schafer Clothier (Sole Proprietorship)
Sole Proprietorship; 1-10 employees; Apparel & Fashion industry
November 2010– Present (1 year 11 months) Baltimore, Maryland Area
Measuring and design of suits, shirts, formal & casual wear.
Partner
Signature Attire
June 2011– Present (1 year 4 months) Baltimore, Maryland Area
Our ties are designed and made in America of the highest quality. Whether you seek a bespoke necktie that is subtle and elegant or bold and dramatic, each of our truly well-made ties is custom designed to set you apart from the crowd.
We know, firsthand, that if a custom necktie is eye-catching on TV, it will add distinction to your everyday life too.
President
Baltimore Fashion Alliance
September 2010– Present (2 years 1 month)Baltimore, Maryland Area
The BFA’s mission is to provide professionals in the fashion industry with superior education, networking, and resources while giving back to the community through charitable programs and contributions.
Carlous Palmer Designer /Stylist
I am an American Fashion Artist/ Stylist, with over20 years’ experience in the industry with a body of work that covers Television, Film, Stage and Fashion, I am interested in working with any one that has the drive and desire for creativity and beauty. MY GOAL IS PERFECTION. I am quick with ideas and always open to new ones THAT ARE WORKABLE
and willing to travel for fair compensation, I have worked from New York to Palm Beach in the area of retail, public relations and for one of the largest Christmas display in the country meaning that my resources are plentiful for getting things done. I am also dedicated to helping the new comer to the industry ...after all we are responsible for sharing what we know to help others to keep our art alive... feel free to contact me at carlouspalmer@yahoo.com
This year you will be seeing designs created exclusively for CHASE BREXTON HEALTH SERVICES to bring more awareness to the need to attract more people to the HIV/ AIDS crisis ... the numbers are getting higher , and I am honored to say that IKEA TEXTILES and GUSS WOOLENS have sponsored this collection and over the next few months you will be seeing designs created from IKEA TEXTILES with some designs supplemented with fabric from GUSS WOOLENS . You will be able to purchase these garments by visiting www.carlouspalmerdesign.etsy.com we are also asking that you join IKEA and GUSS WOOLENS TWITTER and FACEBOOK pages to be updated about what is going on new in fine Textiles.... look for more images in an upcoming article in IN - FOCUS MAGAZINE... I would also like to thank WOODIE and TONY LESENE for recognizing my abilities when I lived in Palm Beach and introducing me to FLORIDA'S FASHION PUBLIC; for that I am grateful. I hope that I can continue to do good work and help people in my small way become inspired... I hope that my work will continue with the love and support that I have been getting over the years and I am looking forward to creating inspirational designs I hope that other designers will take part in this movement and help some of the other agencies in the fight WE ARE MORE POWERFUL TOGETHER THAN WE ARE APART.
I also need to thank GOD, My Family, My City TEMPLE Church Family, The Baltimore School for Arts, Fashion Institute of Technology, Baltimore City Community College for their part in my success .
Make Up By Dawn Newsome
Dawn is a master makeup artist that has been designing faces for over 16 years. She got her start in beauty at the age of 13 at a local modeling school in Harrisburg, PA. While modeling, Dawn quickly realized her passion for makeup and decided to turn her passion into a career. Dawn's experience began in the cosmetic departments on lines such as Fashion Fair, Flore Roberts, Ultama II & Derma Blend. During this time, she learned that the art of makeup starts with the foundation. Dawn quickly mastered the ability to go beyond the basic foundation palette to blend the perfect foundation. This blending technique is the powerful tool Dawn possesses to consistently create the perfect look.
Dawn's desire for growth led her to Prescriptive, Lancôme and Mac, where her creativity was embraced and confidence was instilled. Dawn became a National Makeup Artist in her next move to Estée Lauder. This experience opened a world of opportunity as she traveled around the country doing makeup events and touching over 200,000 faces in 5 years! Estée Lauder gave her the opportunity to study under the Late *Paul Starr* for 2 years, as well as take part in developing foundation pigments for women of color. With this experience Dawn continued to refine her skills as she moved forward and opened new pathways to create beauty. Now Dawn is using her expertise in all kinds of media such as videos, TV shows, photo shoots, fashion productions, weddings & beauty transformations!
CREDITS:Discovery Channel's *Home Made Simple* 2009, HGTV's *Real Estate Intervention 2009, H-Town music video *Knockin your Heels Off* 2009 , H-Town feat. Pretty Rickey 2010, Red Cafe music video * Who You Hatin on Lately* Baltimore Ray music video *Back at Da crib* 2011 Dominion Energy Share commercial *Comfortable Sleeping*, Discovery Credit Card, Raytheon Feat. John Harris, Pepsi
Dawn has recently found a home with Bridal Artistry Team , this has been great union for both of us!
About Imaginis Photography
My name is Sven Bannuscher and I am the owner and main photographer of Imaginis Photography. I have many years of experience as a photographer and have worked as a professional photographer in Europe (France, Germany, Monaco) as well as in the United States and Canada.
My photos have been published in the Washington Post, Washington Diplomat, Austria Info, and several other national and international publications.
I started my career as a landscape and architecture photographer in Europe before moving to Bethesda, MD. This type of photography requires a high attention to detail which I still utilize today when photographing any type of assignment. No matter if it is a portrait, a wedding, a commercial advertising campaign, editorial fashion, or any other type of photography.
When photographing events such as a Wedding, I combine artistic portrait photography skills with a modern photojournalistic approach. Blending these two concepts together ensures that you will receive timeless photographs.
Business Philosophy
It has been my philosophy to combine the classic perfection of the old masters with an innovative and modern style of photography.
We offer you a package that is tailored to your needs. We make the whole process from beginning to end affordable, fun, and hassle-free. We ensure that you feel comfortable at all times and do not have to jump through any loopholes or run into any walls. You are unique and you deserve a photographer who appreciates and captures your uniqueness.
Mission Statement
To consistently create artistically notable and technically superior photographs of outstanding quality.
Shana Kroiz Jewelry:
Native Baltimorean Shana Kroiz is acknowledged as one of the country's leading experimental enamelists and jewelry educators. Throughout her career, Shana has been involved in teaching and promoting the growth of jewelry as a recognizable art form.
Shana is currently the Special Events and Workshop Coordinator of the Maryland Institute College of Art Jewelry Center, which she founded in 1992, and where she works as an instructor and studio artist. Previously, Shana was the Director of the 92nd Street Y’s Jewelry Center in NYC.
Where to see Shana's work
See Shana's work in publications
"My one-of-a-kind wearable jewelry celebrates ancient forms and the sensuous nature of the human consciousness. These pieces are universal in their appeal and personal in their effect. When worn, the jewelry interacts as sculpture making the body a pedestal."
"Rich colors are created by the primitive use of a brush stroke and layering of experimental enameling or the brilliant colors of patina on silver which reflects the history of the art."
With artistic integrity and fine craftsmanship, Kroiz captures the seduction of color and form while exploring and honoring the human spirit.
MFA,1993; Towson State University
BFA with Honors, major: Metals, minor: Clay; 1990; Parsons School of Design
One-year Intensive Metals Study, SUNY at New Paltz; 1987-1988 (with Robert Ebendorf and Jamie Bennett)
Christopher Schafer's Summary
Christopher Schafer wants you to look your best for every one of life's great occasions. He takes pride in his work and feels that every garment that he creates is a direct representation of himself. Christopher makes sure that all the details are correct and that you get the best fit possible. He will take the time with you to design the best clothing that you have ever owned. This old world work ethic is not going unnoticed, he was voted Baltimore’s Best Tailor by City Paper in 2009, Baltimore Magazine in 2010, and Fashion Awards MD in 2012.
Christopher learned that art of measuring & design to create custom clothing while living in London, a city that had a profound effect on his life. He learned from some of the best clothiers in the world and immersed himself in the English culture. Christopher would frequently visit Seville Row and Jermyn Street to gain ideas and inspiration. The end result was a new style which blends European style and fit with comfort to create clean understated lines. This formula produces fashionable, fitted and comfortable clothing that you will love to wear.
Specialties
Measuring and design of suits, shirts, formal & casual wear.
Christopher Schafer's Experience
Proprietor
Christopher Schafer Clothier (Sole Proprietorship)
Sole Proprietorship; 1-10 employees; Apparel & Fashion industry
November 2010– Present (1 year 11 months) Baltimore, Maryland Area
Measuring and design of suits, shirts, formal & casual wear.
Partner
Signature Attire
June 2011– Present (1 year 4 months) Baltimore, Maryland Area
Our ties are designed and made in America of the highest quality. Whether you seek a bespoke necktie that is subtle and elegant or bold and dramatic, each of our truly well-made ties is custom designed to set you apart from the crowd.
We know, firsthand, that if a custom necktie is eye-catching on TV, it will add distinction to your everyday life too.
President
Baltimore Fashion Alliance
September 2010– Present (2 years 1 month)Baltimore, Maryland Area
The BFA’s mission is to provide professionals in the fashion industry with superior education, networking, and resources while giving back to the community through charitable programs and contributions.
Carlous Palmer Designer /Stylist
I am an American Fashion Artist/ Stylist, with over20 years’ experience in the industry with a body of work that covers Television, Film, Stage and Fashion, I am interested in working with any one that has the drive and desire for creativity and beauty. MY GOAL IS PERFECTION. I am quick with ideas and always open to new ones THAT ARE WORKABLE
and willing to travel for fair compensation, I have worked from New York to Palm Beach in the area of retail, public relations and for one of the largest Christmas display in the country meaning that my resources are plentiful for getting things done. I am also dedicated to helping the new comer to the industry ...after all we are responsible for sharing what we know to help others to keep our art alive... feel free to contact me at carlouspalmer@yahoo.com
This year you will be seeing designs created exclusively for CHASE BREXTON HEALTH SERVICES to bring more awareness to the need to attract more people to the HIV/ AIDS crisis ... the numbers are getting higher , and I am honored to say that IKEA TEXTILES and GUSS WOOLENS have sponsored this collection and over the next few months you will be seeing designs created from IKEA TEXTILES with some designs supplemented with fabric from GUSS WOOLENS . You will be able to purchase these garments by visiting www.carlouspalmerdesign.etsy.com we are also asking that you join IKEA and GUSS WOOLENS TWITTER and FACEBOOK pages to be updated about what is going on new in fine Textiles.... look for more images in an upcoming article in IN - FOCUS MAGAZINE... I would also like to thank WOODIE and TONY LESENE for recognizing my abilities when I lived in Palm Beach and introducing me to FLORIDA'S FASHION PUBLIC; for that I am grateful. I hope that I can continue to do good work and help people in my small way become inspired... I hope that my work will continue with the love and support that I have been getting over the years and I am looking forward to creating inspirational designs I hope that other designers will take part in this movement and help some of the other agencies in the fight WE ARE MORE POWERFUL TOGETHER THAN WE ARE APART.
I also need to thank GOD, My Family, My City TEMPLE Church Family, The Baltimore School for Arts, Fashion Institute of Technology, Baltimore City Community College for their part in my success .
Make Up By Dawn Newsome
Dawn is a master makeup artist that has been designing faces for over 16 years. She got her start in beauty at the age of 13 at a local modeling school in Harrisburg, PA. While modeling, Dawn quickly realized her passion for makeup and decided to turn her passion into a career. Dawn's experience began in the cosmetic departments on lines such as Fashion Fair, Flore Roberts, Ultama II & Derma Blend. During this time, she learned that the art of makeup starts with the foundation. Dawn quickly mastered the ability to go beyond the basic foundation palette to blend the perfect foundation. This blending technique is the powerful tool Dawn possesses to consistently create the perfect look.
Dawn's desire for growth led her to Prescriptive, Lancôme and Mac, where her creativity was embraced and confidence was instilled. Dawn became a National Makeup Artist in her next move to Estée Lauder. This experience opened a world of opportunity as she traveled around the country doing makeup events and touching over 200,000 faces in 5 years! Estée Lauder gave her the opportunity to study under the Late *Paul Starr* for 2 years, as well as take part in developing foundation pigments for women of color. With this experience Dawn continued to refine her skills as she moved forward and opened new pathways to create beauty. Now Dawn is using her expertise in all kinds of media such as videos, TV shows, photo shoots, fashion productions, weddings & beauty transformations!
CREDITS:Discovery Channel's *Home Made Simple* 2009, HGTV's *Real Estate Intervention 2009, H-Town music video *Knockin your Heels Off* 2009 , H-Town feat. Pretty Rickey 2010, Red Cafe music video * Who You Hatin on Lately* Baltimore Ray music video *Back at Da crib* 2011 Dominion Energy Share commercial *Comfortable Sleeping*, Discovery Credit Card, Raytheon Feat. John Harris, Pepsi
Dawn has recently found a home with Bridal Artistry Team , this has been great union for both of us!
Union Pacific Railroad GP9m 340 at Kansas City, Missouri on an unknown day in April 1980, Kodachrome by Chuck Zeiler. Number 340 was built in September 1957 (c/n 23696) on EMD Order 5552 and was retired April 2, 1981. During June 1964 this locomotive was equipped with an EMD turbocharger at UP's Omaha Shops, giving this unit and at least 54 other GP9's the moniker "Omaha GP20", and creating a 2000 hp GP9. The program began in early 1955 with the application of AiResearch Model T-30 turbochargers to four GP9's at UP's East Los Angeles Shops (four turbochargers per unit). The four units were sent out for road testing, and after modifications, the program was moved to Salt Lake City in September 1956. By 1959 the program was moved again to Omaha, and nine more GP9's were turbocharged (bring the total to 13). At the same time, ten nearly new GP9's of the 300-series were turbocharged using Elliott Company products, and three GP9's were sent to La Grange for application of EMD's new turbocharger. Later, the UP sent six more GP9's to EMD for the same modification. Between 1962 and 1965, 55 more GP9's in the 300-series were turbocharged with the EMD product by the UP at Omaha, and the AiResearch and Elliott modified units were de-turbocharged and converted back to normally-aspired GP9's. Number 340 was modified in June 1964, and at the same time a 2400 gallon fuel tank was installed, forcing one of the twin air reservoirs to be re-located to the front of the locomotive. Some of the turbocharged GP9's were also modified to burn low grade Bunker C fuel oil, and heaters were installed in the fuel tanks to permit efficient fuel flow. It is unknown exactly which Omaha GP20's were modified to burn Bunker C fuel, but the telltale sign is open metal grating on the walkways along the long hood to dissapate heat, and 340 shows signs of that. During the 1970's, Bunker C fueled locomotives were converted back to diesel due to rising costs of that fuel. The full turbo story is at this link: www.utahrails.net/articles/up-gp9-turbo.php
Jon Lenthan, left, Lillie McNamara, Tara Carroll and C J Bowens are starring in the next Hobart Rep production, Up For Grabs.
Strobist info: Key light is a strobe in a Lastolite Easybox, flown directly overhead. Fill from an on-axis reflective umbrella a few stops under the key. Fast shutter and some selective dodge&burn blacked out the floor and killed the background.
While you are walking amidst tall trees, never forget to look up, for if you fail to do so, you will miss a few important views.
Please view this Large on Black.
Copyright © 2009 Adarsh Ramamurthy
Using my works without my consent is illegal
A disturbingly funny mash-up of Harley Quinn and the Joker as the mascots for Wendy's and McDonalds fast food restaurants. I was laughing and twitching when I saw them. o.O
September 1, 2018 - Kids participate in the Net Generation "Kids on Court" Demonstration before a match at the 2018 US Open.
I was shooting an assignment for class yesterday and was using daisies as a prop. When I was finished I snapped a couple shots of the daisies just for fun. Such a little happy flower.
Nikon D800E photos Bianca Buitendag & Bethany Hamilton Supergilr Pro Oceanside Beach Pier in San Diego! Shot form high up above on the Oceanside Pier!
Nikon D800E photos of Bianca Buitendag, Bethany Hamilton, and other pro surf girls at the Oceanside Huntington Beach Pier! Gorgeous pro surf girl goddesses all who are also professional swimsuit bikini / athletic sports clothing models! Shot with the awesome Nikon D800E & the Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 AF APO DG OS HSM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras. They're all professional models too (Alana Blanchard was a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model and Rip Curl Bikini Model!)!
And here're some epic video of pretty goddesses Bianca Buitendag and Alanna Blanchard I shot at the same time with the Panasonic X900MK 3MOS 3D Full HD SD Camcorder with 32GB Internal Memory mounted on my Nikon D800E via the 45surfer configuration.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxYPyOtzAQU (Bianca Buitendag paddling out and surfing!)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bX4gXnfLtc (alana running on beach, paddling out, surfing)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5LLePW95N0
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANM70cBDNVo
www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIqA-0TOkjk
www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVEcj3bTdeQ
Last year I was shooting with a Nikon D4 with a 600mm F4 Prime monster Nikkor lens mounted on the tripod:
www.flickr.com/photos/herosjourneymythology45surf/8555104...
This year I wanted to be more nimble and work the whole area (shoot surfers warming up down the beach, coming and goring, running, hanging out/watching/etc.), so I opted to shoot with a Nikon D800E with the Sigma 150-500m lens mounted on a monopod. It can be tough to move tripod around with a 600mm F4 Prime monster Nikkor lens on a crowded beach, and it would be easy to upset folks each time you tried to set it up! There's a good chance they would say "enough" and throw you and all your equipment in the water! There's a common etiquette that one ought arrive early to claim a good spot, set up there, and keep it for the day. Latecomers are not welcome to set up on the main beach once it has filled up. But it's OK to walk around with a smaller setup as long as you stay out of everyone's way. Generally you can hug the water/shoreline with your feet and monopod in the water, as you're down low enough so that you don't block anyone's view from higher up on the beach, where all the tripods are mounted. The Sigma 150-500mm lens also allowed me to zoom out when surfers ran down the beach or got in and out of the water, and I also had a Nikon D800E with the 28-300 mm lens strapped around my neck. And both cameras had video cameras mounted to them in my famous 45surfer configuration! Needless to say, it can be a bit scary standing knee-deep in water with all that equipment, with large waves breaking. You wouldn't want to fall in!
Well, hope you enjoy the surf goddess photography!
All the best on your epic hero's journey from Johnny Ranger McCoy! :)
P.S. There's nothing like shooting the nikon D4 with the 600mm prime for quality, but I felt it was cool to give up a bit of quality for far more variety this year! Plus I do not want to become a pixel-peeper! :)
The weekend.
The sun shone.
The wind dropped.
It felt warm.
Heck, it was warm.
And there was a whole day to play with, off orchiding or maybe churchcrawling or even both.
The plan was to go to Marden Meadows first, then Stockbury and finally back to Yocklett's, and then see how we felt.
Marden Meadows is a speacial reserve, a freshwater meadow, and filled with Green Winged Orchids and many other rare plants and flowers all through the year. Orchids just at the end of April and into May though. And it is a hike, or a drive.
After coffee, we load the car with cameras, a bottle of squash and two slices of cornbread, and off we set, leaving home at half seven. The drive took us through Dover, to Folkestone, then up the M20, and once past Ashford, we could see the Brexit lorry park which now takes up all of the coastbound side of the motorway. There were no queues, and it seemed to be working well. Indeed, driving through Dover coincided with the disgorging of a ferry, and there were dozens of lorries we passed as we drove along, so some kind of normal has retuend, though some 15% down year on year.
Anyway, less about Brexit.
We turn off at Leeds, not that one, but the Kent one, along the main road that threads its way through the village, past the church and up the down, parked cars on either side making travel both ways impossible, we have to wait until there were gaps before moving off again. There is talk of a relief road, but some places were just not designed for the modern world, and maybe it would be better if we just travelled less? I know I am writing about two people driving across the county in a five seater car to look at some flowers. If there was an alternative, we would use it.
Along the B road that doubles as a main road/rat run, to Linton, then down the long steep hill onto the expanse of the Kent Weald, one fnal leap over the railway, a sharp turn to the left and along for a mile, and there is the reserve.
It is early in the season, but I had seen shots from the day before saying there were a few dozen spikes partly in flower, the remaining thens of thousands would follow in a week or so. We parked up, paid for parking by phone, I got the camera out and we walked into the first meadow, though that was empty, so far, of any orchids.
Into the main meadow, and although I see now spikes showing, I know that a few small ones were there. So I set off on one of the paths across the meadow, and sure enough here and there were splashes of purple, showing were orchid spikes were emerging.
I bend down to take shots of a few, though we are here really in pilgrimage to one of the finest sights in Kent, though it won't be in full effect for about ten days or so. I remember that it is nearly two years since we were last here, as in 2020, travel, like so much, was frounded upon during the early season, but if that was the worse we had to suffer, then we got off light.
Above us was a clear blue sky, the winds were light, and it was warm enough to go without a jacket, which was rather nice.
I emt up with Jools on the other side, we walk back to the gate into the first meadow, and then back to the car. I guess we had been there half an hour, but that was enough, and we will be back.
We get in the car and munch on cold cornbread, which is better cold as it turned out.
Then drive to Staplehurst, then back up to Linton and to Leeds to get back to the motorway so to avoid the one way system around and through Maidstone.
Across the motoway and up Bluebell Hill across Pilgrims Way, turning off down a narrow lane, leaving the thick traffic behnd.
We park at the bottom of the hill, and walk carrying three cameras up the lane to the reserve at the top, limboing under the gate and into a seas of blue.
Truth is, peak bluebell isn't quite here yet, but the sight is so impressive. We take the path through the tickest part of the bluebells, stopping every few steps to take snaps.
A little further on are a few scattered Early Purple Orchids, looking majestic among the bluebells, and mostly fully in flower.
At the top of where the path tumbles down the down, two spikes of pure white bluebells nod in the breeze, perfect to take a load of shots.
Down into the meadow, I find three rosettes of Lesser Butterfly, looking very healthy, and signs that the population is thriving from the single plant there three years ago.
Further along are a host of Lady, but not yet in flower, none even have the top of their spikes emerging from the sheathing leaves.
Soon, my friends, very soon.
Back to the car, and we detour to Faversham as Jools wanted to buy some plants from a place there, so we find it along the A2, I wait in the car while she shops, I would have bought so much more.
Our final run is to Yocklett's, back to the A2 and to the other side of Canterbury, through Bridge and then to Stone Street, down to Stelling, and along the quiet lane, only to find MY parking space occupied, but then it was after lunch, the latest we had ever been to the reserve.
We park at the bottom, which is good, as the bank of what counts as the main road, is a nursary of wonderful wild and escaped cultivars, all on a sun-kissed bank: green alkanet, Yellow Archangle (though the varigated variety), White deadnettle, Greater Stitchwort among others.
Up the Gogway to the reserve entrance, heading forst to the right to the lower meadow, in the hope of seeing Green Hairstreak on the wing, but none seen. And no Fly Orchid in flower either, though some were close, but not lose enough. I do see a few Brimstones and Orange Tips, though none settle to be able to photograph.
We walk back down the hill, over the Gogway to the other side, and up the bank, checking on the Herb Paris, Lady, Greater Butterfly and Townhall Clock Plants. All there, but none in flower. Yet.
At the top of the bank, the air filled with the scent of wild garlic which fills the floor of the woodland just a bit further on.
This is spring.
Butterflies are everywhere, but none settle where I can find them, only for, finally, a female Brimstone lands, only for me to have my camera on the wrong setting, f3.5, so the shots are overexposed and cannot be saved.
Sigh.
We walk through the bluebell wood, down past the badger set, to the cleared area where the Lady are well advanced, but not that far. One Lady had the red top of her spike exposed, but nont in flower. Yet.
We walk back to the road, then down the hill to the car, to drive back to Petham, then to Bridge and onto the A2 to home, arriving home at two, an hour before the football was due to start.
I had managed to jarr my toe whilst chasing a butterfly, so it throbbed, too much like gout for my liking, so I rested up.
Norwich were playing away at QPR, and if Watford didn't win, and we did, we would be champions. City won 3-1, but Watford won by a penalty, so the quest goes on to next week.
Oh well.
That meant Watford are also promoted with us.
So it goes.
I watch some football, can't remember who, so can't have been good. We have caprese and the remainder of the cornbread for supper, and I have a red wine spritzer, to see what happened. What happened is that I didn't finish it, sipping it through the evening.
But I had no ill effects, so all good.
Jools beats me at Scrabble, while I try to watch the Sheffield Utd game, but give up shortly after half time.