Flinders Blowhole Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

This photograph was taken last weekend. The shutter speed was set slightly slow, producing an effect I found more appealing than that of a long exposure. The sky appeared particularly dramatic, and the waves crashing against the rocks were strikingly turbulent.

Wishing everyone a joyful Easter.

I have ordered a special cake from a boutique pâtisserie — a chocolate mousse delicately enrobed in pear cream — which I look forward to sharing with my mother.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Over the past fortnight, I have indulged in viewing all six seasons of Schitt’s Creek. At the outset, the series appeared somewhat clichéd, with a rather uninspired storyline. However, by the third season, it began to reveal a remarkable depth and charm. The romantic arc between Patrick and David, in particular, proved to be both refreshing and heartfelt. Each character was afforded the opportunity for full development, to the extent that, by the series’ conclusion, the actors and actresses felt like dear friends and cherished members of one’s own family. It was with a touch of melancholy that I bid farewell to the show as it drew to a close.

Flinders Blowhole, Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

Over the weekend, Joel and I made another visit to Flinders Blowhole. We chose this destination due to its relatively short driving distance and our desire to explore a different side of the location. The outcome was satisfactory; I managed to capture several seascapes that I found quite pleasing.

With the Easter holidays approaching, the weather forecast predicts rain and storms. Joel and I had intended to go birdwatching in several nature reserves around Melbourne, but given the conditions, it is unlikely to go as planned. I may simply remain at home and follow the news from the United States.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

After enduring a total of eight hours of travel merely to deliver a four-hour lecture, the return journey to Melbourne proved even more exhausting, not least due to an unsettling encounter on the road. I became the target of a distressing incident of road rage: a truck followed me closely for approximately one-third of the journey, only to overtake me abruptly and then proceed to slow down significantly, seemingly with the intent of making my drive as uncomfortable as possible. One is left to wonder—what has become of civility among people?

Lego Museum Signs for Sign2

 

These are signs on some of the Lego Displays in Lego show at Exhibition Centre in Melbourne. Sometimes a good visit to indoor location is very worthwhile

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

I have recently taken up the practice of Tai Chi, primarily in pursuit of improved health and gentle exercise that minimizes the risk of injury. Though I have never subscribed to the traditional notion of "qi," I must admit that, after merely three weeks, I have begun to notice a welcome firmness in my muscles.

This morning, I am preparing to deliver yet another guest lecture on the subjects of osteoporosis and sarcopenia. Amusingly, it seems I must first reacquaint myself with the most recent peer-reviewed journals to refresh my memory on the latest findings.

More Sanxia Shrine from Taipei for Treasure Tuesday

 

The abundance of carvings and ornate details within this shrine is truly astounding. Every corner is adorned with oriental artistry, rich in history and narrative. The tales of the Three Pure Ones in Taoism echo the complexity of Greek mythology, filled with themes of human nature—betrayal, intrigue, and divine powers. Were it not for my interest in photography, I might have passed by the shrine without so much as a second glance.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking to Treasure Tuesday

Taipei Mural for Mural Monday

 

I came upon a charming mural near the entrance of a night market in Shulin, Taipei. I arrived too early, before the market had come to life, and so, with little else to do, I captured a photograph of the mural before continuing on my way.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

When I was in high school, my English teacher held a peculiar aversion to the word senseless, deeming it wholly nonsensical. She would penalise me on several occasions merely for employing the term, as though it were a kind of linguistic taboo in her classroom. At the time, I understood senseless to signify a state of numbness or insensibility. Yet now, in contemporary media, one frequently encounters the word used to describe acts of violence and tragedy — "senseless crimes" and "senseless deaths" abound in the headlines. I cannot help but wonder whether the language has shifted with the passage of time.

Wisteria in Taipei for Sunday Best

 

It is presently autumn in Australia, whilst spring has arrived in Taipei. This wisteria garden is of considerable size, and many visitors gather here to behold and inhale the delicate blossoms of the wisteria.

I take great pleasure in its fragrance.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Joel and I await with great interest the forthcoming 50–150mm f/2.0 zoom lens from Sony, which is expected to retail for approximately 8,000 AUD owing to import tariffs. It is difficult to fathom that the successor to my current model, the A7R V—anticipated for release later this year—might approach a price of 20,000 AUD. Such figures are extraordinary, particularly for what remains, for us, a mere hobby.

Capybaras for Saturday Critter

 

While visiting a local street eatery, I happened upon an unexpected sight—a capybara calmly ambling about near the premises. The scene drew the attention of several onlookers, particularly groups of high school students, who appeared both amused and enthralled by the animal’s tranquil presence. It has become increasingly evident that the capybara, once relatively unknown outside its native South America, has now garnered considerable popularity among younger generations, especially teenagers, as an object of fascination and affection.

Capybaras, native to regions such as Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia, are the world’s largest living rodents. Renowned for their sociable temperament, they have been affectionately dubbed “nature’s chilliest animal.” Their mild disposition and unique, endearing appearance have contributed significantly to their growing global appeal. In urban environments, particularly in East Asia, the capybara has transcended its role as a mere zoo attraction to become something of a cultural phenomenon.

Notably, there has been a rise in the export of capybaras to countries such as Taiwan, where the animal has found a new home in both private collections and public parks. Taiwanese zoos and animal cafes have introduced capybaras as a way to engage younger audiences, resulting in a surge of interest and visits. Their peaceful nature makes them well-suited to interactive environments, and their compatibility with humans and other animals alike only enhances their appeal.

This quiet boom in capybara popularity reflects broader trends in the human-animal relationship: a desire for companionship, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Once seen only in the wetlands of South America, the capybara has now waddled into the hearts of people across continents—becoming not merely an exotic animal, but a gentle ambassador of calm in our often-chaotic modern lives.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Saturday Critter

Flinders Blowhole seascape for Water H2O Thursday

 

I didn’t do much last weekend. This is an older photograph taken at Flinders Blowhole—I particularly like the way the water splashes onto the rocks.

I’ve resumed intermittent fasting in an effort to shed the extra weight I gained while in Taiwan. Work has been quite demanding. To make matters more difficult, I’ve received the unfortunate news that I will once again be losing my capable receptionist. It appears to be a recurring pattern within the corporate structure to dismiss competent staff within a two-year timeframe. One has to wonder—when things are functioning well, why is there a need to remove those who contribute positively?

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Swanston St Melbourne Signs for Sign2

 

Some of the signs on Swanston St are rather bombastic. Interestingly, most patrons were often a mixed crowd too. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Mural at an abandoned beach resort

 

The once grand mosaic mural, now decayed and abandoned, was, I believe, a vast composition depicting various landmarks of Taipei.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

I have returned to diligently addressing the backlog of delayed referrals from last week, and the effort is certainly taking its toll. Over the weekend, Joel was unable to join the planned trip to Pinnacles, having discovered at the last moment that he had a prior commitment to a family dinner. In his absence, I devoted my time to attending to a rather tedious volume of paperwork.

Shifen Waterfall, Taipei for Sunday Best

 

Shifen Waterfall is indeed a breathtaking spot! The walk to the area, surrounded by lush greenery, makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. The vibrant nature enhances the experience, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Buffalo in QingTianGang for Saturday Critter

 

Buffalo have been introduced to the region to provide tourists with subjects for photography. However, their presence results in an unpleasant odor in the surrounding area.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Saturday Critter

I must express my gratitude to the Snow White remake. My mother has never been inclined to follow the news. However, in recent times, she has found great amusement in the widespread criticism and controversy surrounding the film on YouTube.

Pulpit Rock twilight for Skywatch Friday

 

This is the perspective I prefer to reach, as the view aligns with the principles of classic photography in terms of composition.

I eagerly anticipate joining Joel for a trip to Pinnacles this weekend, where I hope to capture stunning sunset shots once more.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Laomei green moss beach, Taipei for Water H2O Thursday

 

In the later days of spring, the Laomei Shimen Green Moss Coast in northern Taiwan is said to be transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, as a lush emerald carpet of moss blankets the entire shoreline, resembling a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Alas, during my brief visit, I was unable to witness this enchanting scene.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Taipei Street Joints for Sign2

 

Wagu Teppanyaki 

Kyoto Matcha Yoghurt ice-cream 

Korean BBQ joint

Tempura hot pot 

Taiwan was under Japanese occupation for over fifty years, and as a result, much of what I observe in its streets and shops consists of direct franchises from Japan. Historically, one might expect the Taiwanese to harbor resentment toward Japan for its colonial rule over the island, particularly in light of the Sino-Japanese War, during which millions of Chinese lives were lost in a single day. Yet, paradoxically, the majority of the population today embraces Japanese popular culture with great enthusiasm, admiring everything from its cuisine and fashion to its history. In many respects, the island bears the unmistakable imprint of a Japanese state.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

SanXia Temple, Taipei for Treasure Tuesday

 

Sanxia Temple, renowned for its devotion to the Three Pure Ones—the primordial deities of Daoism—stands as a revered site of worship and cultural heritage. This historic temple, nestled in the heart of Sanxia, Taipei, is celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship and deep spiritual significance.

At the time of my visit, the temple’s front entrance was undergoing renovation, a testament to the ongoing efforts to preserve its architectural grandeur. Unfortunately, my time was limited, preventing me from fully capturing its beauty through photography. Nevertheless, I was able to take a few frames, offering a glimpse into this sacred and storied sanctuary.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

On my first day handling referrals within the community, I encountered six so-called urgent cases—none of which were true medical emergencies. Rather, the urgency stemmed from the desire to annul the legal autonomy of elderly nursing home residents, enabling their children to access their bank accounts and real estate. It was a stark reminder of the grotesque realities I have so often witnessed in the geriatric care industry. Genuine concern from family members is, more often than not, absent. Almost every elderly resident I spoke with shared the same lament: "I have not seen any of my grandchildren in years." Loneliness and isolation weigh heavily upon them all.

Fitzroy Melbourne Murals for Mural Monday

 

Fitzroy is a vibrant and eclectic suburb. Over the weekend, Joel and I dined in the area, evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of our university years.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Late Cherry Blossom at Tian Yuan Temple in Taipei for Sunday Best

 

After an arduous and fatiguing journey home, I was able to secure only two hours of sleep in total. The upcoming weekend will require significant adjustment before I officially resume work.

February marks the season of cherry blossoms in Taiwan, with the Yoshino cherry (Prunus yedoensis) blooming slightly later. This exquisite variety, characterised by its pale pink petals that fade to white, is renowned for its delicate beauty and ephemeral nature, symbolising both renewal and the fleeting passage of time.

My visit to Wuji Tianyuan Temple in Tamsui, Taipei, was primarily to witness this floral spectacle. This revered temple, known for its magnificent five-story pagoda and serene atmosphere, becomes a favored destination during cherry blossom season. The harmonious blend of traditional architecture and cascading blooms transforms the temple grounds into an ethereal landscape, drawing visitors seeking both spiritual solace and natural splendor.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Lake Aoraki, New Zealand for Skywatch Friday

 

Reflecting on the journey to New Zealand, the sky appears as a vast canvas, adorned by the ever-changing hand of the capricious weather.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Wulai Waterfall, Taipei, Taiwan for Water H2O Thursday

 

Wulai Waterfall, situated in the verdant mountains of northern Taiwan, is a popular destination for both locals and travelers seeking a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Taipei. Wulai is just outside the Taipei district, with easy access by rapid transport, making it an ideal day trip for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far from the city.

During my visit, the weather was rather disappointing. It should have been sunny, but instead, the skies turned stormy intermittently. Despite the unpredictable showers, the sight of the waterfall cascading down the cliffs, surrounded by mist and lush greenery, created an almost mystical atmosphere that made the trip worthwhile.

One of the highlights of the Wulai region is its charming old street, where vendors sell an array of local delicacies. Among them, I particularly enjoyed the mountain pig sausage — a savory and smoky treat that perfectly complemented the rustic setting. The flavors, unique to this region, added a special touch to the experience.

Beyond the culinary delights, what makes Wulai so special is the easy access to nature. The towering trees, rushing river, and distant calls of wildlife provide a welcome escape from urban noises. As you wander through the trails and listen to the waterfall’s roar, you are reminded of how refreshing it is to step away from city life and reconnect with the natural world.

Though the weather did not fully cooperate, Wulai still left me with lasting impressions — a blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and peaceful solitude that’s hard to find so close to a major metropolis.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday