Dislike Mondays, I sometimes do. Changes that, a good sunset does.
Almost missed it..
Finally, time to relax..
A lot of us had a rough week. Some more than others. A huge protest involving more than 10,000 people in Baltimore happened last week, over the untimely death of Freddie Gray. The death was later ruled a homicide, with six involved police officers charged. A riot also broke, leading to urban chaos Baltimore.
In other parts of the country, many experienced some first world problems. Multiple theaters sold out on seats for the opening day of the Avengers: Age of Ultron movie. Some were not looking forward to the disappointment and waste of money spent on the Mayweather vs Pacquiao fight.
In Seattle, I just wanted to be me. For that, I was hoping to leave the citylife for a day and enjoy some outdoor adventure surrounded by trees and shrubbery. But the errand-doings squandered much of the day, so I instead decided to use the good time leftover by the ol Seattle city waterfronts. The weather was beautiful, and the atmosphere cheery. Here are some highlights of that time…
The entrance to the Seattle Aquarium. I love this sign. I should go in, someday. I promise to take pictures when I do..
A local street performer act. He drew a lot of attention among the locals and tourists. Not so much for the unicorn head, but also for being quiet good with his drum beats on the buckets..
While looking for a restroom, I stumbled upon a second floor food court on Pier 57, of which I did not know existed. It’s a cozy spot for those who like local junk food and cool neon signs.
I love neon signs. The bigger and more, the better.
Back outside Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel continues to thrill. I remember not liking this much when the attraction first opened in 2012. Now, I have gotten used to it and appreciate the cheer it spreads.
Some free reading material, as it was “Free Comic Book Day” on May 2nd. I partook in a comic store visit that day. I found a nice seat by the waterfront., and enjoyed them.
Later on at Pier 62/63..the nice wide open wood area. There is a ping-pong table that I have never seen used for ping-pong. Still, it’s there and looks oddly cool in the sunlight.
A look at a tiny boat, using an extra lens mounted at Pier 66.
A look at the water, before I go. I promise to take more pics of the water on my next stroll through here.
– Orion T
I did some local exploring around the Space Needle.That was my spontaneous little adventure in the later daylight end for yesterday. Here are some pics…
The rooftop view, a nice day for fluffy clouds and a good walk..
The monorail through the local Experience Music Project museum..
Up and above..
A new playground here. The paint is fresh. The playground will be open to the public next month sometime…
Same playground but from a different fence. I may have filtered it a bit too much in the Photoshop touch up edit, but I really liked the lines. I wanted to make sure you noticed..
The same playground from another closed off entrance.. It’s a little crazy, and seems dangerous.
A little more about that..
Another look at the Space Needle, from a mid-Spring point of view…
A little birdie hopping around..
The John T Williams Honor Pole, carved by his brother (Rick L. Williams) to honor John and his long family generations of carving. John T. Williams was the seventh generation Nitinaht carver of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. He died in 2010, from multiple gunshot wounds fired from a Seattle police officer. For more on that story, click here. Thanks to donations and public support, this totem pole remains close to the Space Needle, for all to appreciate.
That is all for now. I depart the Seattle Center, and walk through the Bill and Melinda Gates Visitor Center. There is much else of visual interest around here. However, I will save that adventure for another day..
– Orion T
Under the streets of old Seattle, transitions happen. There is much beauty in this process, though many of us are too busy to appreciate its design.
Many are local citizens, going about their daily commutes to and from work. They would likely be relieved to not take part in the rising traffic jams above and around the growing Downtown area. Some probably have a good book, or an old timey newspaper. Others have their mobile device; perfect for casual video games and the occasional texting conversation (once out of the tunnel). While their lives are usual and mundane, they still take part in their daily exercise of change. This tunnel is a major part of that process…a maker of their daily progress gone smooth.
Some are a bit excited to make this transition to or from their homes abroad, as they are often tourists, or weekend visitors to those special loved ones or good friends. Either ways, the stop inside a tunnel station is a major turning point in that journey. An official step, to leave all behind or welcome all forward. Some changes may be from the stop before. Even so, the above world is still different than the one left behind 10 minutes ago. All change becomes accepted, and planned well with the beginning, or the end of this transition point. We forget the in-between, very quickly.
Take this stop in Pioneer Square, also known as the Pioneer Square Link Light Station. You may catch a number of buses, or the Link Light railbus throughout the King County area.
This 25-year old station lies beneath the older, more historical part of Seattle. Everything here below, feels like the opposite of the town above. It feels open, almost quiet except for constant whining of buses and railcars. Everything seems simple, as to a purpose and options on what could do here. Yet above, the world is busy and complex. The streets seem to have less space. There are unpleasant smells sometimes. The destinations are nearly infinite, with many directions one could choose from. This is different from airports, and open business districts and suburbs of the destinations where the transits follow beyond the Downtown areas. When you leave the space between spaces, a transition complete and new normal comes accepted.
Still, that station below is quite incredible; a retro-futuristic fantasy come to life. Here are pictures of this grand stop; the amazing tunnel between. Sorry, I did not take any pics of the grand exterior of the stairway. My camera battery was “exhausted” by then. My change, was to leaving this alone, forgetting it all; and next choosing that good place to enjoy a good slice of pizza.
-Orion T
Happy Earth Day!
And so goes all the good messages about planting trees, recycling, putting some extra through on how we converse resources. This is not much to ask for the many of us busy with work, or preoccupied with some studies and big crazy projects.
Yet, here we are again. And sometimes, it’s the little things we don’t appreciate. Like these trees that I felt fortunate to walk among in this big downtown city. Now, the Spring is full-grown, and the leaves are plenty enough to block out much of the continued development that sprouts from the grounds of this Emerald City. I smile a little more on this Earth Day, to see the efforts of this co-existence of nature and industrialization in the high-paced working world. There are ecological benefits to our longer-term survival with this continued push for nature through our cities. I would like to think having more trees helps reduce the effects of city pollution and smog. The shade also helps to bring down mental stress, I think.
So, today I spread the light on our public parks, and emphasize the importance of increasing planted trees in our modernized civilizations. We continue to push forward, plant more trees and bushes; all great action in the right directions. This continual rebirth of local nature is helpful to our environment and futures, in more ways than we can see. But, sometimes to take in the sights of a well-developed park..is enough to appreciate.
The pictures below are of the Pioneer Square area of Downtown Seattle; taken days ago with a cheaper point and shoot camera. However, today has small outbursts of sun and shine throughout the Pioneer Square. The leaves are just as nice to look at and through, on this lovely Earth Day. If you are nearby some earthly sights, take time out and appreciate..
– Orion T
A hike through Discovery Park..yes.
That was the best remedy to a rough last week; as I needed fresh air, time away from the screens and sirens. Discovery Park has 534 square miles, of peace and nature for one to enjoy. There are open meadows, dense forestation, rocky cliffs, old historical buildings, and a beach. For anyone living in Seattle, it’s easily accessible by bus, car, and probably even a bike. Sunday, was my day of escape. To there, I went.
While hiking through, I took pictures. Here are some unedited raws, featuring the best of the today’s afternoon adventure..
High above the upper meadow trails of Discovery Park. Downtown Seattle is somewhere behind the hills to the left.
Today was a nice blue day, sunny at 70 degrees.
Yet, there was a constant wind chill. Those bushes with the small yellow petals were in constant sway.
Though much of the cherry blossoms and magnolias have vanished through the city, some were late bloomers and still showing some of that early Spring pride.
No words, just cool shadow play.
There is a beach down below. I just follow the trail and watch my step. But take time, because each view is fantastic.
Some moss there. I like moss.
Lots of birds chirping, as I walk more between the trees. I wish I was good at spotting them. There are some bird tours coming up, here in Discovery Park. I may join in on one.
Okay, I found this one. Not sure if it’s a crow. I like this shot.
The beach, with lots of dried wood and visitors.
The West Point Lighthouse. A shot without anyone walking around it or taking selfies in front of it was pretty much impossible today. Still, worth the capture.
Another group of local visitors, enjoying some off-shore strolling.
Tides were picking up. The calming was over, and the wind also increased. The time to go back was now. Also, I am hungry and forgot to bring efficient snacks.
On my way back, a nice small meadow to stare at. Argh, I forget what those puffy things are called..
Okay then..
Not Discovery Park, but my last minute visit to the Sculpture Park before heading home. I caught this awesome sunset, just in the nick of time.
That’s all for now. I will be back to Discovery Park again, soon. Hopefully then, I will see more birds.
– Orion T
I took a short stroll under a bridge through the Northeast Campus Parkway, near the University District in Seattle. This after,I noticed notice some crazy colors to the side, at the end of a long bus ride.
And there I was, on this quiet day. The streets were still damp, from the heavy rains of past days. The walls seemed washed, cleaned. The street art, urban graffiti, whatever you want to call it..brought a sense of youthful expression to this area of higher education. I know little of the artists who add magnificent style in their signatures. I can appreciate their work, and enjoy the small messages and subtle details for those who really take time to visually explore these walls. I am also particular fond of inclusion of the 1990s comic character and MTV cartoon star, The Maxx (pictured below)
The mural’s origins can be traced back to 2004, with this article I Googled researched. Here, explains what began as the project of UW art grad Jill Rothenburger, who found the underpass previously “drab and depressing.” With encouragement and permission from the city, that was changed. City officials were worried this could be spread, or encouraged towards illegal “tagging.” Jill defended the bridge in her quote from that article:
“Vandalism is illegal, but how can a style be illegal?…Graffiti is a style. It’s the visual manifestation of hip-hop culture. Hip-hop is youth culture. Does the city really want to be against that?”
So, the city allowed. Over 10 years later the underpass mural continues to impress, though with some changes to the art over time (much of it painted over older art). Here below, are some shots of its current appearance..
– Orion T
Yesterday, was one of the simple days.
I sat on a wet bench in front of the Apple Store, somewhere in the Univeristy District of Seattle. I was a bit early for my “Genius Bar” appointment, to see to a small problem with my mobile tablet. I looked for anything around me, that wasn’t based on commercialization and our addictions to technology. The sky welcomed my sight more than the flashy allure of that new Apple Watch on display. I enjoyed the solid gray for most of that time in wait.. Then, coming back down to Earth..I noticed more people on my bench. A child was sitting backwards, looking behind the bench, to the colorful small garden behind almost touching the back of my head. There, I admired the beautiful, colorful flowers, still dripping from the recent pouring rains.
Then, I took a few pictures (featured below). I do not know the classification on these flowers. Any help in the comments is welcome.
The “Genius Bar” appointment went well. As usual, I get wonderful service from Apple when needed.
– Orion T
I love a good comic convention, and any geek-out gathering of a similar nature. For me, it’s all about my comic/graphic novel appreciations, and all the connecting fantasy and science fiction driven art. To be among the creatives, and to converse with them is a complex joy that never ends for me.
I also enjoy the thrill of a good hunt, to peek through the exhibit floors.Through the aisles I explore the artist alleys, company booths, dealer tables, and demo stops. I take much with me. All including (but not limited to) my personal favorite things to take home are: sketches, cheap loose figures, vintage magazines, bargain comics (including graphic novels, trade paperbacks), special edition exclusives, free swag, samples, and the occasional new thing an exhibitor successfully pitched .
I also take home some interesting memories, and fun sights. I love taking pictures of people and happenings, to treasure the shows further. Every convention over the last 20 years (lost count of how many of these now), has had something special. I often meet someone new, or see some interesting gathering. I meet an admired creator, or listen to the words of some interesting celebrity to the realms of geek. This is all great fun.
Here are some wonderful memories of this Emerald City Comic Con (my third attended) for 2015.
The gathering of Spider-Man and related Marvel Comics cosplayers. Among them were many Deadpools, and some Spider-Gwens (a new character to the Marvel Universe, long story), and a classic Electro (a personal fav to my childhood cartoon viewing).
I noticed an abundance of loose action figure toys. Much of which I feel somewhat amused, that an appreciation of plastic detailing and articulated mobility could still be a fun novelty, in my grown-up years.
Paul Tobin (writer) and Colleen Cloover (artist), of the Bandette comics; a personal favorite (and highly recommended) series of a whimsical super-hero thief. Both a married couple hosting their own booth, and a joy to meet.
Long Vo and Joe Ng, at the Udon Booth. Both, drawing two video game favorites; Mega Man and Akuma (Street Fighter). I cam back at short times a bit later to see what they were up to. Both very friendly, and put much love into their work
Christopher Pike, and Harry Mudd cosplay; from the Classic Star Trek series.
I love seeing comic book covers of different areas on display and in boxes. There is an awesome nostalgic beauty to all this.
DC Comics “Bombshell” versions of Wonder Woman, Black Canary, Harley Quinn, and Batwoman. All brought to life, from a series of variant comic covers showing the heroines with vintage pulp cover twists. Well done.
Alana and Marko cosplayers, from the Saga comics series. Saga (by Fiona Staple and Brian K. Vaughan) is the best sci-fantasy comic series currently released on the shelves now.
A vintage Batman playset still in the box. Will Batman save Robin in time, or will the Joker have the last laugh?
Jim Mahfood, an admired artist over my last two decades of comic reading. He is the perfect match for the new Tank Girl series coming out. He also drew me a cool Batman sketch.
And here, are the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Seattle is safe for now!
Doctor Doom vs. Judge Dredd. Place your bets!
They let me go, after showing them the droids they were looking for.
Sailor Scouts, crossplayin
The Gundam Wing 1/100 Endless Waltz model kits. Not shown is my favorite, Duo Maxwell and his Deathscythe Hell Custom.
A new Mega Man figure coming from Bluefin toys. Multi-articulated with LED lights, and pop-out compartments. This was originally promoted as a Kickstarter campaign for fans, now with all goals met.
The Image Comics booth, once again standing tall as my favorite current comics publisher.
Some of the later stage cosplayers showcased that Saturday weekend night. There were many groups, with incredible detail and craftsmanship. The Troll from World of Warcraft (fifth from the left) I think won best in show.
On the last day and outside the convention, lucky fans got an up close performance from the D20 Brass Band. Many cheered to the Legend of Zelda theme, and other classic tunes.
Gotta love the some of the really geeky merch. I was seriously considering buying that Chewbacca robe in the top right corner.
Rob McDaniel at work, sculpting with clay one of this amazing creatures. For the show, his work is inside the fantasy anthology series, Monsterpedia.
My obtained sketches on small trading card sized boards, from the show. From the top and left…Leonardo by Albert Nguyen, Batman by Jim Mahfood, Miniature Man by Steven Butler, random lady sketch by Enfu (local Seattle Artist), from the upcoming Faster Than Light augmented reality comics by Brian Haberlin (Anomaly) Inspector Belgique by Colleen Cloover (from Bandette), and Gyro Gearloose by Don Rosa!
Well, that’s all for now, with Gender Bender taking us out.
Until the next Con (probably San Diego in the summer)..
– Orion T
I recall those 45 minutes on the evening bus heading back to the big Emerald City, along the freeway..
I stared out through the glass, feeling restless. You can see the clouds move very slowly, changing swirls and shifting light in curious chaotic directions. Crazy clouds can be exciting, and stirring of my moods. Every now and then, a patch of blue, or a burst of sun; the mind just let’s go. I feel so much of the glorious unique and vast sights, feeding to my imagination to some strange epic fantasy lost in my subconscious. I normally sleep on the long bus rides after work, but how could I? I just stared out, in a sort of hypnotic state for much good time. I would eventually break through the spell, taking pics from the smartphone every few seconds. I think I captured some of that motion.
Two hours later, a massive thunderstorm hit the big Seattle city. No pics of that, as I could only hear the booming throughout under the safety of my bed covers. I was tempted to leave and peek outside, but I think these pics from earlier are enough for today. Also, I remember the outside air as very cold and wet.
Here below, are those earlier bus pics all unedited and low-res raw, straight from my slightly outdated smartphone. The above pic is from my apartment roof, befoe settling to the inside for the night..
Wow, loved the colour and fun of this past weekend.
I geeked out at the annual Emerald City Comic Con, just happening in the downtown convention center. I had a blast, with heavy interaction among the creative minds, alternative pop culture enthusiests, nostalgia collectors, and dedicated gamers. But now, I am tired out as excitement on these higher levels can push limits. I have some good pics coming, covering multiple aspects of this event. I will post them in the near future, so look forward!
The pic above, was of a final impromptu event outside the event in the back park area, among fellow attendees. The D20 Brass Band performed, playing some tunes familiar to the classic video game fans (including myself). Moments including this by fans and for fans, add much reason to why I love to attend these gatherings.
Good times!
Here below are some observations, in the great Seattle city. All were captured with my camera that barely works now.
High in the sky before the Key Arena entrance..
Noticed a little timey wimey stuck with a little icky sticky. By the way, today (March 26th) marks the 10th anniversary of the day Doctor Who new revival run began, initially starring Christopher Eccleston. He was a fantastic Doctor..
Singin the rain. Here is Hobbit and Hare, a wonderful Pike Market street performer duo..
Wow, look at these mushrooms (Pike Place Market)..
Gotta heart the Seattle spirit, as someone took time and effort for to bring smiles to those looking down..
Back in Post Alley, one could get lost in art.
In Fremont, I took a friend of mine to make friends with a troll. 
The colorful interior basement of the Narwhal, underneath the Unicorn Bar..
Back in Capitol Hill, on Pike Street and 11th.. 
After the rains..
A bird enjoying a small meal, I think. 
Me.. 
See this amazing world within, hidden from the outside troubles and turmoil. Find this little place, as the reward itself is a peaceful escape for the mind and soul.
This little world, is within the Kobe Terrace Park of Seattle’s International District. All its cherry trees, are aside concrete pathways, zig-zagged upon a hillside. The time is often quiet, if one can exclude the noisy rumble of the nearby freeway and downtown city highlife. Then but infrequent, the light rain accelerates the petals of the cherry blossom trees to fall. When under the dense cover of these trees, one can focus on the gentle sound of the raindrops. And with increased rainfall, more white petals fall in very slow and graceful descent.
The result, is wonderous.
Here are my pics, of fallen blossoms from nearby Sakura (Cherry) trees in a parking lot.
I found these accidently, somewhat lost on my way to a bustop in Redmond. The surrounding area is an extension of the Microsoft Headquarters, much larger than I thought. The air was quiet, with birds chirping in the distance. The rain felt light, yet constant for the time. If standing still, one can peacefully observe the newly loosened white petals in graceful descent. The wetness below ensured the stickness of the fallen petals, adding to the surrounding beauty.
A side note.. When encountering the blossoms in clusters below your feet, be careful when stepping over. The wetness combined with the silky nature of the petals, make them slippery to walk upon. I turned a corner and lost my balance. I recovered quick, picking many blossoms off my clothes. The concrete below is hard, and not a good feeling for sudden contact.
Enjoy these pics below. There will be more from a different place, soon.
Today is almost done, and what a day it was!
Tis the first day of Spring, and very wet. In the Seattle and surrounding areas, there was light on/off rain. Very pleasant to walk through, especially throughout my paths. Here below, are some moments with notes..
Within a downtown park by the Washington Convention Center, a favorite little tree stands. Here, the petals seem very relaxed in the rain.
And the petals, I think enjoy this rain as much as I. Let em drop..
Much later, I journeyed far to the city of Redmond for a short research gig at Microsoft’s main headquarters. A nice busy place, but what got my attention for the longest was this little bird outside. That was a very chirpy fellow, but also not letting me too close for the more detailed shot.
And then, after a long walk and briefly ending up lost. I found myself in a parking lot of scattered sakura blossom petals. There is seriously a lot to take in, and a little dangerous. More on this, tomorrow..
Finally, back in Downtown Seattle. Here is another pretty tree in the rain.
Up close and personal..
Later, I took a pit stop at the Kobe Terrace Park at the International District. When last here, there was little on the ground. I said I would be back to see them fallen, in an earlier post last weekend. Now…
More on this tomorrow, or the next day..or whenever I get around to it. But soon, I promise.
Spotted a dragon in Seattle today!
This one played around by the Uwajimya Asian and Gift Supermarket, next to the parking lot. I saw another of its kind up another pole, two blocks away at the Historic Chinatown Gate. How many dragons are in the International District? I’ll keep a look out. There may be more..
Ah..another lovely weekend past, to enjoy while it lasts.
From what I hear, these many early blooming Cherry Blossom trees throughout the Seattle are almost at their peak. By the end of April, I think their pedaled spender will be a pleasant memory, until next year. I lived in Seattle for a few years now, and this is the best I have seen of them. I think the reason is the lacking of shaky weather, so far in 2015.
The pictures above and below, are from the Kobe Terrace Park (and adjacent community garden), near the very noisy 5 freeway in the International District of Seattle. The white Cherry Tree blossoms are mostly in the park itself (high on a hill overlooking the areas south of the Downtown area), a nice place to rest and relax. I recommend headphones emitting soft music, to cancel out the near freeway noise. The green and white trees with other shrubbery, are in the Danny Woo Community Gardens next door (a crooked pathway down from the park).
Enjoy these pics below. I hope to return here when the blossoms shed. That will be a sight.
Today at the nearby Seattle Center by the great Needle, I came across these timeless vehicular beauties.
These original DeLorean DMC-12 vehicles, with its design very familiar to those Back to the Future movie fans; parked together for public appreciation. The rear engine, the stainless steel armor, the roomy interior, winged doors, and the design sleek enough for time travel; all part of the fantastic charm that makes the DeLorean very widely appreciated.
These Deloreans were brought into view by the Pacific Northwest DeLorean Club (pndc.org). I thank them very much for sharing of these marvels. I wish I could have seem them all drive through the streets of Seattle. I have seen these parked at various car shows and conventions, but never in motion. Still, I feel lucky to witness this rarity once more (approximately 9000 made), but now times five together.
Here below are some pictures. You may notice some movie references..
Over the weekend, my eyes fixated upon a magnificent tree with its colorful blooms..
That tree is the Magnolia Soulangeana, or the Saucer Magnolia. This blooming magnificently and stands alone at the Seattle Center (the park area of the Space Needle). You’ll find it a little north to the great International Fountian. This is a tree of multidimensional beauty. From far away and in early spring/late winter, you may gaze upon its’s large blooming flowers of an outside purple edge, shifting to pink and whites. Inside, the petals are white. Upon the ground, they fall to create a surreal, colorful scatter.
Thanks to the wonderful management of the Seattle Center, I learned of this tree. I was told there colors and changes are a natural evolvement. I felt there had to be more, so I looked up more info..
From Wikipedia..
“Magnolia × soulangeana was initially bred by French plantsman Étienne Soulange-Bodin (1774–1846), a retired cavalry officer in Napoleon’s army, at his château de Fromont near Paris. He crossed Magnolia denudata with M. liliiflora in 1820, and was impressed with the resulting progeny’s first precocious flowering in 1826.[3][4]
From France, the hybrid quickly entered cultivation in England and other parts of Europe, and also North America. Since then, plant breeders in many countries have continued to develop this magnolia, and over a hundred named horticultural varieties (cultivars) are now known.”
Below, we have more, with fallings showing both sides to the loosed petals. In the last pics, are bonus Azaleas.
Tonight, we have the Full Moon special.
This particular moon today is known to some as the Mini Moon, as it appears somewhat smaller. Though smaller by the naked eye, the light flashed a quite illuminative cascade across the night sky. This moon is also known to the Algonquin Native Americans of the New England area as the Worm Moon, as the ground softens for the worms in the coming Spring season (or the Sap Moon, as maple trees also begin to sappen).
For my time on the room tonight, this is just the Full Moon, doing what it does best.
Yes, that is an original outfit worn by Leonard Nimoy, as Spock – science officer to the USS Enterprise. It was on display at the entrance to the open public, this weekend at the EMP Museum in Seattle.
As many of you already know, the actor behind the ears passed away days ago. While Nimoy is best known for playing that character through many years, it’s important to know hE was also a director, a musician, an artist, a voice actor, a writer, a poet, and much more. His experiences and well roundedness contributed to the building of our Vulcan friend. Spock’s “fascinating” view of humanity from the outside was a character trait brought forth by Nimoy after advice from another (detailed from the excellent “These Are the Voyages” first book by Marc Cushman). The humanistic yet logical demeanor Nimoy brought to his character helped bring realism and seriousness to the science fiction genre.
For me, the character of Spock through Nimoy influenced my development over the decades. Through repeat viewings of Star Trek, I often admired his Vulcan logic to solve troubling dilemmas. To consider both sides of an argument, and use the most intelligent, non-violent to find the best answers. His subtle humor, and observations of human behavior, and philosophical exchanges contribute to the intelligent commentary that was often Star Trek. Nimoy’s development and dedication to the character lasted through books, movies, cartoons..and his own reflections in interviews and autobiographical accounts.
And to his soul “being the most human,” here is a poem Nimoy posted on Twitter, one week ago..
Thank you Leonard Nimoy.. your contributions to the betterment of humanity will live long and prosper.
I kind of miss the lengthy cold and rain. Now, am not receiving much of either this winter, compared to prior years. Or maybe, I’m too used to these mild climates in the northwest US to notice these subtle changes.
But, I do feel we did not receive nearly enough this season, as compared to the years before. I wish I could visit the east US now, where snow is thick and crazy. Something different from this different would be nice; reminding me that winter is still here. Also, this year needs to slow down.
So, I took a walk with the fresh free time I had. And, made the best of this blue sky, direct sunlight with light winds between. I walked around and sat on some benches, occasionally pulling out my copy of Brandon Sanderson’s “Way of Kings.” It’s good so far, about 500 pages in (another 700 to go).
Below. are some pics for those who enjoy a good day of relaxation with light local exploration. These views are behind the Seattle downtown convention center, in that park I should spend more time in. Those cherry trees are blooming well, and much earlier than usual. Can’t wait to see what they look like when the Spring arrives, soon.
Another day, another awesome reason to enjoy the world around you.
Though, I regret not finding the time yesterday in my busy schedule to venture local. I saw much from the Seattle social media of some epic sunset then. Well, that seems to happen all the time! I said before on how amazing our sunsets are, as no two seem the same.
Yet, for some reason yesterday was super special. Well, today is also super special. Maybe not as super special as yesterday, but still…super special. You just got to enjoy the time outside no matter what day (even with no sun). Anything else awesome in wait, is just a bonus.
Below are others who may agree, in a moment of sunset glory..
“Shadow is the obstruction of light. Shadows appear to me to be of supreme importance in perspective, because, without them opaque and solid bodies will be ill defined; that which is contained within their outlines and their boundaries themselves will be ill-understood unless they are shown against a background of a different tone from themselves.”
– Leonardo da Vinci
Noticing more colorful blooms this later Winter season. This time, a little hidden by some bushes on a street divider at Denny and 4th. You can notice them easy on a sunny day like today, as the blue skies mingled with big fluffy clouds here in Seattle. Hopefully nobody stomps on these little ones while crossing, as I would love to see these continue. I will be checking as the Spring season nears much closer..
If reading this today on 2/14, then Happy Valentine’s Day!
Wows, what is going in with these skies?
Today, was a day of constant changing patterns and strange hazy hues. Earlier was sunnier and blue in parts, later turning to many shades of grey. The clouds were of many shapes..some straight and narrow, others round and fluffy, some patterns and others in total chaos. The day was also warm, up to 64 degrees; unusual for this time of year to be this warm in Seattle, I think. My weather app said there would be rain, but there was none that I noticed. Still, the skies were beautiful and kept us guessing throughout the day.
More below.. Birds! Totem poles! Space Needle! More clouds!
I admire the early blooms of this winter now. These are reminders of changes, and how every month has signs of the next ahead. The weather lately is a little less chill as the days go by, and a bit more relaxed..for now. The rains pass by with light long pours, usually in the night with just enough to leave the ground soaked for a day or two. I see a lot of mud, and reflections of the grey skies above.
Meanwhile, some plants in various gardens around the city are presenting their first blooms of 2015. I have been told that some of the great cherry trees of the Northwest are showing signs of early Spring. These natural presentations are great, as I have been a bit too comfortable with these short days of grey. Perhaps, the time for early change in this season, is a sign that I must bloom early as well. I have set multiple goals for myself, of which I hope to have active by this Spring. Much like these new blooms, I can not wait.
Today was a simple day of nothing. Some waffles, some books, some light thoughts of where the week will go; no stress and kicking feet up when possible. Then, I remembered to take a walk. That took effort, as I enjoyed my lazy state of mind. Yet, I did go out (realizing I was almost out of laundry detergent, and the local market closes early on Sunday).
And, the city was quiet. Not many out, with most cars in their parked positions. There was little wind, but enough to let the currents cleanse the the dulled senses (from being indoors for so long). Looking to the sky, where all was grey and thick..the occasional bird gliding by; feelings of kind nothings filled the mind of mine. So, I went for a longer walk, and took the above picture (and below). That was the highlight of my day, perhaps the whole week. Let’s see..
Sometimes, I feel like a bystander in the first chapter of some long mystery. Especially, when the rain happens through the night.
The rain does this sometimes, because nights like this are best described in long opening descriptions, establishing mood and environment. I love this kind of rain, not dense or rough enough to have myself rushing to the next bus; but to casually stroll through and let the wetness sink in (and take pictures). The wet sprinkles are enough to appreciate my surroundings, and think of what has not changed since the noir days of old fashioned city life. This being, how we all become a part of our environments, yet don’t know it. The rain in this city can places between between reflections, making new shadows of us dwelling through. We are all getting by, to become new stories or develop that next chapter.
Just be careful out there.
Shots above and below are of the Westlake Center area of Downtown Seattle; a place that is best in after hours, and in the rain. Also, I really like these shots. I will be coming more of this in the near future.
TRAVELING ORION 