It's chrysanthemum season! If you wander through my neighbourhood this time of year, it is highly likely that you will come across pots of huge ornamental chrysanthemums sitting out in the sun. They are usually at least waist-high and, because the blooms are so large (some the size of an adult's head), they need wire supports to keep them from falling over. They are often on display in sets of 3 of the same colour. The first time I saw them, I was astounded. These did not look at all like what I thought chrysanthemums should look like! I was completely taken with the patterns of the petals and the beautiful colours - creamy whites, buttery yellows, and variations of pink and purple. So beautiful! Many people in this area of Japan take the challenge of growing chrysanthemums very seriously and participate in exhibitions where the best of the best are chosen. One such exhibition is being held close-by and so we went to take a look. The best will be chosen next week but no matter. Just looking at the various entries was enough. They ranged from sets of huge single blooms to low bushes completely covered in tiny flowers. There were also a few "odd-ball" varieties with spikey petals or unusual colouring (think orange tinged with purplish-brown) as well as bushes trained to grow in certain shapes. All in all, it was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. And, yes, I did come home with two chrysanthemum plants. Now it's my turn to try! (I didn't buy the single-bloom type though! I'm not quite ready for that yet.) This was one of the entries in the chrysanthemum exhibition today. (Definitely head-sized!)
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Technology is a beautiful thing when it works, but when it doesn't? Well, did you hear me cussing and cursing all the way from where you are? Ah, yes, it's been that kind of a day. Let me count the ways...
Sadly, the reality is that I probably need a new computer and printer since they are both getting on in years. However, that's not going to happen for a day or two and I'm feeling a little jittery. It's unnerving to think how dependent I am on my computer. I do have backups but they need to be updated. Yes, I think that's the plan for this weekend. So, here is a reminder! Technology isn't always your friend! If you need to back up your data, now is a good time! I'm wishing us both luck! (^.~)/ Here's one of the photographs I finally had success with today. It's one of six that I just entered in the LensCulture Black & White Photography Awards. The timing was right down to the wire which is why the technology glitches nearly did me in! However, I managed to get it done on time. Whew! A little too "giri-giri" for my liking! (Japanese for "barely / just in time".)
It's not possible to link to the 6 images here, but if you visit my photo page on Facebook, you can scroll down to the post with the link. (For some reason, LensCulture only makes it possible to post to Facebook.) |
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I'm a photographer based in Osaka, Japan. I love to take photographs. I like to share.
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