flowers

Forget-me-nots on Alaska Day (observed)

Alaska, Macro

Today is (observed) Alaska Day. The official Alaska Day is Oct. 18 and recognizes the U.S. flag raising at Fort Sitka on Oct. 18, 1867. 

The U.S. flag replaced its Russian counterpart following the purchase of Alaska for roughly $7 million. Alaska Day is being observed a day late this year because it is a paid holiday for state employees. 

Since I didn’t post about it yesterday the observance also gives me another opportunity. It’s impossible to find one photo, or even a group, to represent all Alaska has to offer. Instead I chose Alaska’s state flower: the forget-me-not. 

The tiny blue and orange flower is hard to spot, and equally difficult to photograph.

Forget-me-not

Dreamy cherry blossoms

Macro, Photography

Above: Water on whimsical cherry blossoms.

Dreamy is the current Weekly Photo Challenge. To me, dreamy conjures feelings of contrast. Dreams are often simultaneously crisp and cloudy. Things that don’t make sense feel true. Entire dreams can be vague narratives shrouded in mist, except for one hyperreal detail — perhaps a pair of eyes.

In these photographs a shallow depth of field helps create a dreamy and uncertain aesthetic. 

Dreamy cherry blossoms 2
Dreamy cherry blossoms 1
Dreamy cherry blossoms

 

Mt. Rainier: I fell asleep beneath the flowers

Landscapes, Macro, Photography, Travel

Wildflowers are a main attraction to be found on Mt. Rainier. There are obviously many others: great views, unique structures, waterfalls, glaciers and abundant wildlife. I will feature them all in the weeks to come. But it’s Friday, so let us relax, enjoy the beautiful fall and maybe daydream a little. To facilitate those feelings take a look at the pretty purple flowers.

Please click on the image to view full size.