The first photo to be taken in Wales at Margam park, Port Talbot
It’s interesting to be taking photos here as very few people know Margam Park was the location of the earliest known Welsh photograph. It was a daguerreotype of the castle taken on 9 March 1841 by the Reverend Calvert Richard Jones. A daguerreotype is an early type of photograph that was produced on a silver-plated copper sheet. The Reverend Jones was a pioneer of photography and a friend of William Henry Fox Talbot, who was also a frequent visitor to Margam Park and experimented with his own photographic methods. The Margam daguerreotype is now kept at the National Library of Wales and is considered a valuable historical document.
Took this photo of Margam Park a few years ago. Tap to see my red bubble gallery
In the early 19th century, the estate passed to the Talbot family, who built “Margam Castle”c a neo-Gothic country house that was designed by Thomas Hopper and completed in 1840. The castle was the seat of the Talbot family until the end of the Second World War, when it was used by the army and suffered from neglect and vandalism.
In 1973, the Margam Estate was acquired by Glamorgan County Council, and in 1977, the park was opened to the public. Since then, the park has been restored and enhanced, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors, such as a sculpture park, a farm trail, a narrow gauge railway, a fairytale village, and a discovery centre.
Margam Park is a place of exceptional historic and scenic value, and has some of the country’s finest architectural treasures in its magnificent setting. It is a rare and valuable learning resource and a heritage attraction of considerable distinction.
“Red fur coat gleams bright Fox wears virtue and deceit Nature’s dual sprite“
Anthony
Tap to view my red bubble gallery. Ai pic
The fox is a fascinating animal that has been featured in many stories and cultures. The character of a fox is often portrayed as clever, cunning, and adaptable. Foxes can use their intelligence and charm to get out of tricky situations or to achieve their goals. However, they can also be seen as tricksters, deceivers, or troublemakers. Foxes may use their skills for good or evil, depending on the context and the perspective.
In Native American culture, the fox is a symbol of wisdom, creativity, and nobility. Some tribes consider them as a clan animal or a spirit guide. Foxes can teach people how to survive, how to use their talents, and how to respect nature.
In Japanese culture, the fox is called kitsune, which means spirit fox. It is a messenger of the gods and a symbol of divine intervention. The fox can shape-shift into human form and has magical powers. They can be benevolent or malevolent, depending on the situation and the type of fox.
In Chinese culture, the fox is a symbol of fertility and longevity. They can also transform into a human and has supernatural abilities. They can be a friend or a foe, depending on the intention and it’s morality. The fox can also represent the balance between yin and yang, the feminine and the masculine forces.
In European culture, the fox is a symbol of cunning, slyness, and trickery. It is often depicted as a clever animal that can outsmart or outwit its enemies or rivals. They can also be a symbol of mischief, curiosity, or playfulness, being a hero or a villain, depending on the story and the moral lesson.
Autumn’s golden gift Ginkgo’s fan-shaped leaves descend Cycles never end
Anthony
A single leaf. Tap to view in my red bubble gallery
Deeper roots. In the heart of Japanese landscapes, the Ginkgo biloba tree, known as “icho,” stands as a representation of endurance, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to history. This ancient tree, with its distinctive fan-shaped leaves, not only graces the surroundings with its unique beauty but also carries profound cultural significance in Japan.
Resilience Amidst Adversity. The Ginkgo biloba tree has earned its place in Japanese culture as a symbol of resilience. Planted near temples and shrines, these trees have weathered the tests of time, standing tall even in the face of environmental challenges. One notable example is the Ginkgo at the Anrakuji Temple, a living witness to the atomic bomb’s devastation in 1945. Despite the destruction, this Ginkgo tree not only survived but continues to grow, becoming a powerful symbol of hope and the indomitable spirit of life.
The Spirit of Endurance. The Ginkgo is a dioecious tree, existing in male and female forms. The female trees, although producing seeds with a distinctive, somewhat pungent odour, symbolise fertility and the cycle of life. However, it’s the male trees that are often preferred for landscaping due to their cleaner appearance and the absence of seeds.
Connecting Past and Present. Beyond its physical endurance, the Ginkgo biloba is a living fossil, dating back around 270 million years. Its presence in gardens and landscapes serves as a bridge between the past and the present, emphasising the importance of preserving history and the natural world. The Ginkgo’s longevity echoes the cultural values of tradition and the interconnectedness of all living things.
Medicinal and Cultural Significance. In addition to its cultural symbolism, the Ginkgo biloba holds medicinal significance in traditional Japanese medicine. Extracts from its leaves are believed to enhance cognitive function, although scientific consensus on its efficacy remains varied. This dual role as a cultural icon and a potential source of healing adds layers to the Ginkgo’s importance in Japanese society.
On to the future. As the Ginkgo biloba graces the landscapes of Japan, its symbolism goes beyond mere aesthetics. It embodies the resilience of a nation, the endurance of nature, and the hope for a harmonious future. In the shadows of temples, amidst the bustling urban centres, the Ginkgo stands as a silent but powerful reminder of the intertwined threads of history, culture, and the indomitable spirit of life.
“In the Year of the Rabbit, gentleness conquers where force fails, and fortune favours the heart at peace.”
Anthony
Managed to get this photo when I was working in somebody’s garden. Tap to see my redbubble gallery
The Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac is characterised by the gentle and graceful nature of the rabbit, combined with the influence of the element water in 2023. People born in this year are believed to possess qualities such as kindness, tact, and artistic sensibilities.
The Rabbit is often seen as a symbol of good fortune and is associated with longevity in Chinese culture. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit are thought to lead a life of tranquility and charm. They are believed to be diplomatic individuals, capable of navigating social situations with ease due to their innate tact and grace.
The element of Water further enhances these characteristics, adding a touch of adaptability and intuition to individuals born in 2023. Water is associated with fluidity and emotional depth, and it is believed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to the Rabbit’s inherent elegance.
In Chinese folklore, the Rabbit is also associated with the Moon, contributing to its connection with creativity and artistic pursuits. People born in the Year of the Water Rabbit may find themselves drawn to creative endeavors, whether in the arts, literature, or other expressive outlets.
Overall, the Year of the Water Rabbit is seen as a time when individuals may find success through a harmonious blend of sensitivity, diplomacy, and creative expression. It’s a year that encourages adaptability and the pursuit of artistic passions, all under the auspicious influence of the gentle and fortunate Rabbit.
“In the crevices of despair, nature composes a ballad of renewal, each leaf a lyric in the unwritten song of life’s enduring melody.”
Anthony
Took this photo in the Welsh hills. I love how nature reclaims man’s constructions. Tap to view my redbubble gallery
In the gloomy recesses of our fractured existence, where the shadows of despair lengthen and the echoes of discord reverberate, there exists a profound truth—nature, that eternal force, ceaselessly endeavours to reclaim dominion over the desolation we’ve wrought. Through the fractures and crevices of our broken world, it weaves its resilient tendrils, a manifestation of the indomitable spirit of life.
Oh, the lamentable tale of our folly, where progress has become the architect of its own undoing. The ceaseless march of industry, the relentless pursuit of mastery over the elements, has left our once-vibrant world battered and bruised. Yet, in the midst of this man-made labyrinth, nature persists, an undaunted force that refuses to be silenced.
Behold the tenacity of the weed, that humble interloper pushing through the unforgiving concrete. A symbol of defiance against the cold hand of human order. Through the cracks in the pavement, nature extends a green rebellion, reclaiming its birthright inch by persistent inch. It is as if the earth itself, wearied by our excesses, whispers a quiet protest, reminding us that it, too, has a voice—a voice echoing through the crevices of our misguided endeavours.
In the murk of our industrialization, nature’s resilience becomes a beacon of hope, a reminder that despite our ceaseless march towards progress, there exists a sublime balance we dare not disrupt. The wind through the shattered windows, the wildflowers in the neglected corners, each a chorus singing the hymn of an untamed world seeking to endure.
And so, as we stand amidst the ruins of our own creation, let us not forget that nature, in its quiet rebellion, persists—a testimony to a world that always finds a way to push back against the encroaching darkness, through the cracks and crevices of our broken existence.
“Canvas of stillness Water lily’s quiet dance, Monet’s brush whispers”
Anthony
Took this photo at the botanical garden Wales. Tap to see my redbubble gallery
Monet’s Musings
Monet: Ah, my dear water lily, you seem to have mastered the art of silent reflection. Your petals, a palette of nature’s finest hues.
Water Lily: Thank you, Monsieur Monet. Your artistry has captured my essence, immortalising the dance of light upon the water.
Monet: Your presence transforms the pond into a living masterpiece. How do you maintain such serenity amidst the ripples of life?
Water Lily: It is in stillness that I find my strength. Embracing the water’s surface, I learn to dance with both the sunlight and the shadows.
Monet: A dance indeed, and with every ripple, a new verse is written. Tell me, do you converse with the frogs and dragonflies?
Water Lily: In whispers, Monsieur. The frogs share their tales of the land, and dragonflies speak of the breeze’s adventures. We form an opus of nature’s secrets.
Monet: Nature’s symphony, a melody only few can hear. Your petals, a delicate crescendo in this harmonious composition.
Water Lily: And your brush, Monsieur, orchestrates the colours of our aquatic ballet. Each stroke a note of our shared existence.
Monet: Together, we create a timeless duet – you, the muse of stillness, and I, the humble composer of your liquid stage.
Water Lily: A duet that echoes through ponds and galleries alike, uniting the realms of art and nature.
Monet: Merci, my dear water lily, for gracing my palette with your quiet elegance. Together, we paint the poetry of a tranquil pond.
“The fading warmth lingers in memories, a bittersweet echo of carefree moments that danced with the breeze.”
Anthony
Summer breeze. Took this photo in the summer. Tap to view my red bubble gallery
Quench yourself with the taste of summer in every sip! This non-alcoholic delight combines the floral notes of elderflower cordial, a zesty twist of lemon, and the aromatic essence of juniper berries, topped off with a fragrant sprig of rosemary. As the sun sets on summer, let each drop transport you back to those sunny memories. Embrace the refreshing concoction of flavours – it’s not just a drink, it’s a celebration of summer’s farewell. Indulge – taste the essence of sunshine in a glass! 🌞🍹
I thought that give some different facts about the millennium stadium that usually go under the radar.
“In the heart of Cardiff, where hawks dance in the sky, and bells ring tales of friendship, the Millennium Stadium stands as a modern ode to sport and spectacle—a stage for the chorus of cheers echoing through time.”
Anthony
Managed to get the perfect day for this photo. Tap to see my red bubble gallery
Guardian of the Stadium. The stadium has a resident hawk named Darcy, who is trained to scare away pigeons and other birds that might damage the pitch or the roof. Darcy is a Harris hawk, a species native to North and South America, and she has been working at the stadium since 2000. She flies around the stadium before and after events, and sometimes during breaks.
Secret Tunnel. The stadium has a hidden tunnel that connects it to the nearby Cardiff Castle. The tunnel was originally built in the 19th century as part of the castle’s defence system, and it was later used as a shelter during World War II. The tunnel is now used by VIP guests and performers who want to avoid the crowds and enter the stadium discreetly.
The Bell of Friendship. The stadium has a special bell that is rung before every rugby match. The bell was donated by the Llanelli Rugby Club in 1999, as a gesture of goodwill and friendship. The bell is made of bronze and weighs 107 kilograms (236 pounds). It is inscribed with the words “Cofiwch Dryweryn”, which means “Remember Tryweryn” in Welsh. This is a reference to the flooding of a Welsh village in 1965 to create a reservoir for Liverpool.
Historic Cricket Match. The stadium hosted the first ever indoor cricket match in 2002, when England played India in a one-day international. The match was played under the closed roof due to bad weather, and England won by 31 runs. The roof also helped to amplify the noise of the crowd, creating a unique atmosphere.
Harmony in Voices. The stadium was the venue for the world’s largest ever choir performance in 2007, when 10,000 singers from 220 choirs gathered to sing in the Festival of Voice. The event was organised by the Welsh Music Foundation and featured songs in Welsh, English, and other languages. The singers performed in front of a packed audience of 60,000 people.
Daffodils are one of the most popular spring flowers, with their cheerful yellow petals and sweet fragrance. But did you know that daffodils also have a long history of medicinal uses? Ley’s explore some of the fascinating facts and benefits of these beautiful blooms.
Collected a few trinkets to show off my daffodils. Tap to see my red bubble gallery
Daffodils belong to the genus Narcissus, which includes about 50 species and thousands of cultivars. They are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and have been cultivated for centuries. The name Narcissus comes from the Greek myth of a handsome youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, fell in, and drowned. The gods turned him into a flower that bears his name. I guess this is where the word narcissist comes from.
I found this daffodil bulb down the back of my potting table and thought it was very interesting. I photographed it on a sheet of white paper.
Daffodils have been used regularly in folk and traditional medicine, for in addition to the well-documented sickness-inducing properties, extracts can produce numbness, hallucinations, convulsions and cardiac effects, as well as being used for centuries in cancer treatments. The Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, recommended daffodil oil for uterine tumours. Roman Pliny the Elder suggested topical use of the oil. The bulbs have also been used to treat tumours in North Africa, in Central America, in Arabian medicine, and in Chinese medicine during the Middle Ages. Traditional Japanese medicine uses the root to treat wounds.
The reason why daffodils have such potent effects is because they contain various alkaloids, which are nitrogen-containing organic compounds that have a range of biological activities. Some of the alkaloids found in daffodils are lycorine, galantamine, haemanthamine, and narciclasine. These alkaloids have different effects on the body, such as inducing vomiting, inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, disrupting microtubules, and inducing apoptosis.
One of the most promising alkaloids in daffodils is galantamine, which has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Galantamine works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in memory and learning. By increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, galantamine can enhance cognitive performance and reduce the symptoms of dementia.
Another alkaloid that has potential anti-cancer properties is narciclasine, which has been found to inhibit the growth and invasion of various types of cancer cells, such as glioblastoma, breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancer. Narciclasine works by disrupting the microtubules, which are structures that help the cells divide and move. By interfering with the microtubules, narciclasine can induce cell death and prevent tumour formation.
However, before you rush to your garden and start eating daffodils, be warned that they are not safe for consumption. All parts of the plant are poisonous, and can cause severe skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In larger doses, they can cause more serious side effects, such as hallucinations, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death. There have been numerous cases of people who have mistaken the bulbs for onions or garlic, or the stems and leaves for chives, and have become seriously ill or died after eating them. Therefore, it is best to consult a healthcare provider before using any products that contain daffodil extracts.
Daffodils are more than just pretty flowers. They are also a source of powerful compounds that have a range of medicinal uses. However, they are also very toxic and should be handled with care.
I hope you enjoyed this blog and learned something new. Thank you for reading! 😊
Wales is often called the “land of castles” – and for a good reason. There are over 400 castles in this small country, ranging from ancient earthworks and stone ruins to magnificent fortresses and stately homes. In this blog post, I will explore some of the history and features of these castles, and why they are such an important part of Welsh culture and heritage.
Carreg Cennen Castle Tap to see my red bubble gallery
“Within the weathered stones of Welsh castles, whispers of ancient magic linger, transporting the imagination to realms of enchantment and wonder.”
Anthony
The earliest castles in Wales date back to the Iron Age, when the Celtic tribes built hillforts and defended settlements across the land. Some of these sites, such as Dinas Emrys and Tre’r Ceiri, are still visible today. The Romans also built forts and walls in Wales, such as Segontium and Caerleon, to protect their province of Britannia from the native Britons and the invading Saxons.
The Norman conquest of England in 1066 brought a new wave of castle building in Wales, as the Normans and their allies sought to extend their control and influence over the Welsh kingdoms. They built motte-and-bailey castles, which consisted of a wooden tower on a raised mound (motte) and a walled courtyard (bailey), often surrounded by a ditch. Some of the most famous examples of these castles are Chepstow, Cardiff, and Pembroke. The Normans also rebuilt and enlarged some of the existing Roman and Welsh fortifications, such as Caerphilly and Caernarfon.
The Welsh princes and lords resisted the Norman invasion and expansion, and built their own castles to defend their territories and assert their authority. These castles were often made of stone, and had distinctive features such as round towers, gatehouses, and curtain walls. Some of the most impressive Welsh castles are Dolwyddelan, Castell y Bere, and Carreg Cennen (photoed). The Welsh castles also reflected the culture and identity of their builders, and often incorporated elements of Welsh art and architecture, such as carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions.
The 13th century saw the rise of King Edward I of England, who launched a series of campaigns to conquer Wales and end the Welsh resistance. He built a ring of massive and sophisticated castles along the north and west coast of Wales, such as Conwy, Beaumaris, Harlech, and Criccieth. These castles were designed to dominate the landscape and intimidate the Welsh population, and were also symbols of royal power and prestige. They were built by master masons and engineers, and had advanced features such as concentric walls, moats, drawbridges, portcullises, and arrow slits. These castles are considered to be some of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Europe, and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd.
The 15th century saw the emergence of a Welsh hero, Owain Glyndŵr, who led a rebellion against English rule and proclaimed himself Prince of Wales. He captured and destroyed many of the English and Norman castles, and built his own castles, such as Sycharth and Dolbadarn, to rally his supporters and allies. His rebellion was ultimately unsuccessful, but he inspired generations of Welsh patriots and nationalists.
The 16th century saw the Tudor dynasty come to power in England, which had Welsh origins. The Tudors brought a period of relative peace and stability to Wales, and also enacted the Laws in Wales Acts, which integrated Wales into the English legal and administrative system. The Tudors also patronized and renovated some of the Welsh castles, such as Raglan and Carew, and transformed them into comfortable and elegant residences. The Tudors also adopted the Welsh dragon as part of their heraldry and flag, which is still used today as the national emblem of Wales.
The 17th century saw the outbreak of the English Civil War, which divided the country between the Royalists and the Parliamentarians. Many of the Welsh castles were involved in the conflict, and changed hands several times. Some of the castles were besieged, damaged, or demolished, such as Denbigh, Holt, and Chirk. Some of the castles were also used as prisons, garrisons, or headquarters, such as Caerphilly, Powis, and Ludlow.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of the Industrial Revolution, which transformed the economy and society of Wales. Many of the Welsh castles were neglected, abandoned, or sold, and some of them were used as quarries, factories, or mines, such as Flint, Kidwelly, and Caldicot. Some of the castles were also restored, preserved, or rebuilt, by wealthy landowners, antiquarians, or architects, such as Penrhyn, Castell Coch, and Penhow. Some of the castles were also donated, leased, or sold to the public, the state, or charitable organizations, such as Tretower, Dinefwr, and Plas Mawr.
The 20th and 21st centuries saw the growth of tourism, education, and conservation in Wales. Many of the Welsh castles are now open to visitors, and are managed by various bodies, such as Cadw, the National Trust, and local authorities. The castles are also used for various events, activities, and exhibitions, such as festivals, concerts, weddings, and re-enactments. The castles are also sources of research, learning, and inspiration, for historians, archaeologists, students, and artists. The castles are also part of the national identity and pride of Wales, and are celebrated in literature, music, and art.
The castles of Wales are a rich and diverse legacy of the past, and a living and vibrant part of the present. They tell the stories of the people, events, and ideas that shaped the history and culture of Wales, and also reflect the changes and challenges that faced the country over the centuries. They are also monuments of beauty, skill, and creativity, and showcase the architectural and engineering achievements of their builders and designers. They are also places of wonder, mystery, and romance, and invite us to explore, discover, and enjoy them. They are, in short, the treasures of Wales.
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