Purple Rhododendron

The Rhododendron is not actually a native species of the British Isles. It was introduced by the Victorians to these islands and spread rapidly everywhere. The Victorians were great travellers and explorers and introduced many varieties of exotic species to Britain. Unfortunately, some of these incomers of the plant world were very competitive, often being used to different conditions and therefore encountered little 'resistance' from native species-they literally took over unless they were controlled! One such plant was the rhododendron, often used initially to decorate and screen the driveways to opulent country residences. However, I rather like them and think you will agree that this particular purple flower is really attractive!

The stair of stares or stare of stairs?

Lunga {"Loong-ga"-Italian for 'long'} has her favourite place to fluff-out. For reasons known only to her, she likes to stop halfway up the stairs. It reminds me of the words in that lovely wee song from The Muppet Show..."Halfway up the stairs is a stair where I sit.. There isn't any other stair quite like it.. It's not at the bottom, and it's not at the top, so this is the stair where I always stop". Anyway, her stare says it's her stair if you'll pardon the pun.{cringe}

Tuscan beach sunset

Sit awhile with me and we'll watch the sun go down together. You're looking out across the sandy beach with a light, still, warm breeze, gently whisking the downy hairs on your face. The sand is stuck to your furry feet like dried sparkly powder glistening in the evening light. Your skin feels slightly tight from the salt water and you can't wipe the grin off your muzzle as your soul drinks in this scene, committing every moment between blinks to your memory forever. We've had a great day Puppy Dog!

Just because I liked the picture.

I've really got nothing to say about this photo except that, when I was walking past the tree,

It wasn't primarily the flowers which attracted me-it was the browny red wee stalks contrasting with the greyish branches and green grass. I just liked that; hope that you do too.

Chevron Amethyst Wand

Chevron Amethyst is a powerful tool which intensely concentrates energy to dissolve and deflect negative forces. It will cleanse the aura and act as a stimulus to the immune system.

This is a useful stone if you are seeking the positive solution to any situation or problem.

It's strong energy brings balance to the organs of the body, releasing tension and aiding restful sleep.

Calm your Crown Chakra with Cloudy White Clematis

Your crown chakra is just above the top of your head. This chakra resonates to the colour White, regulates the pineal gland and connects you to the higher spiritual aspects, promoting self-realisation and keeping all the chakras in harmony and balance. White light is really a combination of all the colours. Good crystals include moonstone, clear quartz, Iceland spa and herkimer diamond. It should be noted that Violet is also the colour of the crown chakra in some healing disciplines and therefore crystals such as flourite and amethyst are equally suited to healing with the crown chakra-Let your intuition be your guide!

Grow fresh green shoots in your heart chakra!

The heart chakra resonates to the colour green. This chakra regulates the immune system, lungs and the thymus gland. Your own growth, interpersonal relationships, compassionate side and acceptance of yourself are all governed by your heart chakra. Useful crystals for the heart include moss agate, bloodstone, emerald, malachite and peridot. Amazonite and green aventurine are also nourishing. I took the photo above as it symbolised to me fresh growth and development, contrasting the bright new green needles against the darker, more mature ones.