Anthony's Literary Lens

Tag: weather

  • Bay Of Light

    Bay Of Light

    Discover the magic of Cardiff Bay! A vibrant waterfront destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, and endless opportunities for entertainment, shopping, and exploration.

    Step back in time and into the future at Cardiff Bay
    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    Cardiff Bay Barrage: This iconic landmark is a must-visit for anyone exploring the bay. It offers breathtaking views of the bay and the city, and provides a unique habitat for wildlife.

    Senedd (Welsh Parliament Building): A modern architectural gem, the Senedd is the home of the Welsh Parliament and a symbol of the country’s political and cultural identity. Guided tours are available, giving visitors an insight into the workings of the Welsh government.

    The Norwegian Church Arts Centre: This beautifully restored church, built for the Norwegian sailors who used to dock in Cardiff Bay, is now a cultural centre hosting exhibitions, concerts, and other events.

    The Pierhead Building: This iconic Victorian building, once the headquarters of the Bute Docks Company, has been restored and now serves as a museum and exhibition space. Visitors can learn about the history of Cardiff Bay and the Welsh maritime industry.

    Techniquest Science Discovery Centre: A hands-on science museum perfect for families and children, the Techniquest Science Discovery Centre offers a fun and educational experience, with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.

    Mermaid Quay Shopping Centre: A bustling shopping and dining hub, Mermaid Quay is the perfect place to find unique gifts, sample Welsh cuisine, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the bay.

    The Doctor Who Experience: A must-visit for fans of the popular sci-fi show, The Doctor Who Experience offers an interactive tour through the world of the Doctor, complete with sets, props, and special effects.

    The Wales Millennium Centre: This iconic arts venue, shaped like a Welsh harp, is home to world-class performances of music, dance, and theatre, as well as a range of exhibitions, workshops, and events.

    The Senedd Caffe: Enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views of the bay at the Senedd Caffe, located in the Welsh Parliament building. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and classic Welsh dishes.

    The Red Dragon Centre: A modern entertainment complex, the Red Dragon Centre is home to a cinema, bowling alley, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place for a night out or a rainy-day activity.

    The Coal Exchange: Once the hub of the Welsh coal trade, the Coal Exchange has been beautifully restored and now serves as a conference and events venue. Visitors can learn about the history of the building and the industry it represents.

    The Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre: The perfect place to start your visit to Cardiff Bay, the Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre provides information and guidance on the area’s attractions and history, as well as tickets and tours.

    With so much to see and do, Cardiff Bay is the perfect destination for a day out or a weekend getaway. Visit Cardiff Bay today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    More interesting posts

  • Life in the Spotlight

    Life in the Spotlight

    Shining a Light on Strumble Head
    Tap to view in my redbubble gallery.

    “Ahoy there, I’m Strumble Head Lighthouse, a beacon of the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast. I’ve been shining bright for over a hundred years, guiding ships away from danger and blinking in the night sky for all to see.”

    “I may be small, but I’ve got a big personality. I’m a one-of-a-kind lighthouse, sitting proudly on my own little island called Ynys Meicl or Michael’s Island. From here, I’ve got a front-row seat to watch the most magnificent marine life pass by, from whales and dolphins to porpoises and seals.

    When the weather heats up, I’m surrounded by a blanket of flowers, and when the winds howl and the waves crash, I put on a spectacular show.

    I may not be accessible to the public, but I can still be admired from afar. The parking area and coastal path provide stunning views of me and the surrounding areas, like Carreg Onnen Bay and Garn Fawr.

    And let’s not forget, I’m also a photographer’s dream. With my flashing lights and stunning backdrops, I’m always ready for my close-up. So, next time you’re in Pembrokeshire, come take a look at me and all the beauty that surrounds me. I promise, it’ll be a sight to see.”

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    More interesting posts

  • Close Encounter with a Viviparous Lizard

    Close Encounter with a Viviparous Lizard

    Tap to view in redbubble
    Sun-Baked Lizard

    It’s a beautiful day in the countryside, and as I’m out for a walk, I spot something basking in the sun on a nearby rock. As I get closer, I realise it’s a common lizard, a species native to the UK and one of the most commonly seen reptiles in the country.

    The common lizard is a small and slender species, reaching only about 15 cm in length when fully grown. They are a greenish-brown color, with darker crossbands running down their backs and tails. Their scales are smooth and shiny, and they have long, thin legs and a pointed tail.

    Also known as the viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), is a species of reptile native to Eurasia. It is known for being able to survive in the northernmost regions of any non-marine reptile and for its unique reproductive process. Unlike other reptiles, which lay eggs, the common lizard is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young. The scientific names “Zootoca” and “vivipara” both refer to this ability, with “Zootoca” coming from the Greek word for “live birth” and “vivipara” coming from the Latin word for the same. Prior to 2007, the it was classified in the genus Lacerta, but a study by Arnold, Arribas, and Carranza split the genus into nine separate genera, resulting in the common lizard being reclassified as Zootoca vivipara.

    “The common lizard, not often seen
    But those who find it, a lucky being
    It blends in well, a master of disguise
    But its beauty, if found, will surely surprise”

    Anthony

    As I watch, the lizard seems to be enjoying the warm sun on its back. It’s a common behaviour for reptiles, who rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. This is known as thermoregulation, and it’s important for lizards (and other reptiles) to be able to do it effectively in order to survive.

    I can see the lizard’s sides slowly rising and falling as it breathes, and every so often it flicks its tongue out to taste the air. It’s a peaceful scene, and I feel lucky to have stumbled upon it.

    These lizards are fascinating creatures, and seeing one sunning itself on a rock is a special treat. They are an important part of the UK’s biodiversity, and it’s important that we do our part to protect them and their habitats. If you’re out for a walk in the countryside and you see a common lizard, take a moment to appreciate it and then let it be on its way. They are a joy to watch, and we should all do our part to help them thrive

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.
  • Dolly and the Thrill Seekers

    Dolly and the Thrill Seekers

    Dolly bleats-a-lot (left), Woolly Bully (right) and Count Fluffula (lurking in the dark)

    Tap photo to view in redbubble.

    Once upon a time, in a small village, there lived three sheep. Their names were Dolly bleats-a-lot, Count Fluffula, and Woolly Bully. These sheep were quite ordinary, just like any other sheep you might encounter on a farm.

    One day, the three sheep decided they were tired of their mundane lives, and they wanted to do something exciting. So, they set out on an adventure.

    First, they went to the top of a nearby hill. It was a bit windy up there, but they managed to make it to the top without incident. From the top of the hill, they could see the entire village below. It was a rather unremarkable view, but they took a few pictures with their phones just to document the occasion.

    Next, they decided to visit the local amusement park. They had heard that there were lots of fun rides and games there. When they arrived, however, they were disappointed to find that the amusement park was closed for renovations.

    Undeterred, the sheep decided to try something else. They went to the beach, hoping to catch some waves on their surfboards. Unfortunately, the ocean was quite choppy that day, and the sheep were tossed about by the waves. They ended up getting a bit wet, but they had a good time despite the rough conditions.

    In the end, the sheep returned home, feeling a bit disappointed that their adventure had not been more exciting. However, they were grateful for the opportunity to try new things and have a change of scenery. And who knows, perhaps they will have another exciting adventure in the future. The end.

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    Other interesting posts

  • The Crab Apple Tree

    The Crab Apple Tree

    A Celebration of Nature’s Gifts
    Tap to view redbubble.

    There is something magical about old, majestic trees standing alone in a field. They seem to have a sense of timelessness and strength, as if they have seen it all and are here to stay. This is certainly the case for the big, old crab apple tree that stands in the middle of a field on the edge of town.

    On foggy mornings, the tree seems to take on a particularly ethereal quality. The soft, swirling mist envelops the tree, making it appear as if it is rising up out of a dream. The gnarled branches reach out into the fog, as if they are reaching for something just beyond our sight.

    Despite its age, the tree is still strong and vital. Its branches are laden with glossy, dark green leaves in the summer and a riot of red and orange in the fall. In the spring, the tree is covered in a blanket of delicate pink and white blossoms, attracting swarms of bees and other pollinators.

    But it is in the fall, when the tree is heavy with fruit, that it truly comes into its own. The crab apples hang like bright, shiny orbs from the branches, waiting to be plucked and turned into pies, jams, and jellies.

    As the fog lifts and the sun breaks through the clouds, the tree is bathed in a warm, golden light. It is a sight to behold, and one that never fails to take my breath away.

    The big, old crab apple tree in the middle of the field is more than just a tree. It is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of nature, and of the passage of time. It is a place of solace and contemplation, and a source of joy and inspiration.

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.
  • Autumnal Magic

    Autumnal Magic

    A Glimpse of Beauty in Decay
    Tap to view in redbubble

    As I walked through the rust-colored woods on a crisp autumn morning, the sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon. The leaves on the trees were mostly on the ground making the path a thick carpet of fallen leaves. I could hear the crunch of my boots on the leaves as I made my way down the winding path that led to the lake.

    As I approached the lake, I could see that the water was frozen solid, the surface covered with a thin layer of snow. In the center of the lake, there was a small island, and on the island stood a beautiful old church. The church was made of stone and had a steeple that reached towards the sky. The windows were stained glass, and the doors were heavy oak.

    I walked out onto the frozen lake, the ice creaking beneath my feet. As I got closer to the island, I could see that the church was in a state of disrepair. The roof was missing tiles, and the stone walls were covered in vines and moss. Despite its dilapidated state, the church had a certain charm and beauty about it.

    I stood in front of the church for a moment, admiring the way the sunlight filtered through the stained glass windows and cast a warm, golden glow on the interior. The church was silent and still, frozen in time, waiting for a congregation to thaw it back to life.

    As I turned to leave, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness. The church on the island in the frozen lake was a beautiful and peaceful place, but it seemed to be forgotten and left to decay. I could only hope that one day, someone would come along and restore it to its former glory.

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.
  • Endless Horizons

    Endless Horizons

    The Tree and the Sky: A Beautiful Partnership
    Tap to view in redbubble.

    A single silhouette of a tree stands tall against the vast expanse of the horizon. It is a striking image, one that captures the majesty of nature. The tree stands alone, a solitary sentinel against the ever-changing backdrop of the sky.

    As the sun rises and sets, the horizons shift and change. In the morning, the sky is awash with the golden glow of the rising sun, casting a warm and inviting light over the landscape. As the day progresses, the sun moves higher in the sky, the light growing brighter and more intense.

    In the evening, the horizon takes on a different hue, as the sun sinks lower in the sky. The sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, the colors blending and shifting as the sun dips below the horizon. And as the night falls, the tree stands tall and proud, a steadfast presence in the darkness.

    The single silhouette of the tree is a powerful and enduring image, one that speaks to the resilience and strength of nature. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the natural world, a reminder of the beauty and majesty that surrounds us every day. No matter what the horizon may bring, the tree stands tall and unyielding, a symbol of hope and inspiration for all those who behold it.

    Tap to view my redbubble gallery.
  • Holly Bush Hustle: The Story of a Bluetit

    Holly Bush Hustle: The Story of a Bluetit

    A Bluetit Amongst the Holly
    Tap to see in redbubble

    As I wandered through the winter wonderland that is my backyard garden, I couldn’t help but notice a little bird causing quite a ruckus amongst the holly leaves and berries. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a bluetit with a serious case of the munchies. This little guy was darting here and there with the speed of a hummingbird on a sugar high, snatching up berries left and right and stuffing them into some undisclosed location.

    But don’t let its small size fool you – this bluetit was a formidable foe in the battle for the holly bush berries. It was quick and agile, able to navigate the dense foliage with ease and avoid getting poked by a single spiky leaf. And as it flitted about, gathering its haul, it shot me a sly look, as if to say “What are you looking at, human? These berries are mine.”

    Well, I have to hand it to that bluetit – it certainly knows how to work a holly bush. And as I watched it go about its business, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight of this tiny, tenacious bird making its way through the winter garden. It may be small, but it’s definitely got spunk. Keep on berry-gathering, cheeky bluetit

    Tap to see my redbubble gallery
  • Reflections at Stumble Head Lighthouse

    Reflections at Stumble Head Lighthouse

    A Moment’s Peace
    Tap to see in my redbubble

    As the sun sets beyond the Stumble Head Lighthouse, it seems to sink into the sea, painting the sky with a stunning array of colors. From fiery oranges and reds to softer pinks and purples, the sunset is a truly magical sight to behold.

    But the beauty of the sunset extends beyond just the visual spectacle. As the day comes to a close and the sky grows dark, there is a sense of peace and calm that settles over the land. The bustle of the day fades away, and the world seems to slow down just a bit. It’s a time to reflect on the events of the day, to let go of any stress or worries, and to simply be present in the moment.

    The sunset is a reminder of the natural cycles of life, the constant ebb and flow of the world around us. It serves as a reminder to cherish each moment and to make the most of the time we have.

    The heather too in the foreground, with its delicate purple blooms, adds an extra touch of luck and good fortune to the scene.

    So next time you see the sunset beyond the Stumble Head Lighthouse, take a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty and wonder of this fleeting moment in time. It’s a moment that you’ll never get back, and one that you’ll always remember.

    Tap to see my redbubble gallery
  • The Chicken Who Knew Too Much

    The Chicken Who Knew Too Much

    Chick Chick Boom
    Tap to see in redbubble

    It was a dark and stormy night when the chicken appeared. No one knew where it came from, but suddenly it was there, standing in the middle of the road, its beady eyes gleaming in the headlights of oncoming cars. And there was something about her, a kind of dark energy that seemed to radiate from her very being.

    At first, the people of the small town laughed at the chicken, dismissing it as just a silly bird. But as the days went on, strange things began to happen. Chickens from farms all over the area started disappearing, and no one could figure out where they were going.

    The townspeople knew they couldn’t ignore Henrietta any longer. They gathered together, determined to get to the bottom of what was going on..

    But as they closed in on the chicken, they realized that this was no ordinary bird. It was huge, with glowing red eyes and razor-sharp claws. And as it turned to face them, they knew that they were in grave danger.

    The chicken let out a deafening screech, and they all scattered, running for their lives. But no matter how fast they ran, they could feel the chicken’s hot breath on their necks, its razor-sharp claws scraping against the ground as it closed in on them.

    Finally, with a final burst of energy, they made it back to the safety of town. But they knew that the chicken was still out there, waiting for its next victim. And as the people of the town locked their doors and turned out the lights, they couldn’t help but wonder what other horrors the darkness might hold.

    Tap to see my redbubble gallery
Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started