imagine

This sign caught my eye as I was walking yesterday.

I think it's a reminder to let my imagination fly.

cooling thoughts

As the latest heat wave continues in both the northeast and the northwest I am thinking and dreaming of cooler days.

Here's a photo taken in Portsmouth, NH just a week ago on a cooler day. The sky was decorated by a pattern of clouds.

fading iris

The color of these Japanese iris has faded a bit from their initial bloom. Even with the change the flowers continue to paint a corner of the garden in shades of purple.

in the distance

The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse - located on the edge of New Castle Island - can be seen in the distance.

speedwell spikes

Veronica spicata decorates the garden with spikes of purple flowers.

This plant is also known by the common name speedwell.

curves

Garlic scapes create interesting patterns in the garden.

green

The grass along the coast in Odiorne Point State Park is wearing an amazing shade of green.

magic light

I headed to Portsmouth, NH yesterday morning to visit the gardens in and around Prescott Park.

I'm glad I broke away from the flowers long enough to walk across the bridge to Peirce Island. The light shining on the Piscataqua River was amazing.

sand sculptures

The 21st annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic was held last week. The sculptors prepared their sites on Wednesday, sculpting their creations on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I visited twice, on Friday afternoon to see the sculptures in progress, and early Sunday morning to see the finished sculptures.

My favorite is titled "Miss You, My Friend". It was created by Justin Gordon of Groveland, MA.

More photos of the sand sculptures can be seen in the gallery sand sculptures :: Hampton Beach 2021.

hosta flowers

Delicate flowers rise above the leaves of a hosta.