The Lotus Flower grows in the deep mud, far away from the sun. But, sooner or later, the Lotus reaches the light becoming the most beautiful flower ever. The Lotus flower is regarded in many different cultures, especially in eastern religions, as a symbol of purity, enlightenment, self-regeneration and rebirth. Its characteristics are a perfect analogy for the human condition: even when its roots are in the dirtiest waters, the Lotus produces the most beautiful flower. (copied from w.w.w)

R. U. still in Thailand?

..........is that 4.............aaaa ............or should it be three............aaa

Don't laugh, I'm serious.

How do I do that?

the contest specifically states ONE FLOWER ...uh ohhhhhh

I have tried and tried and tried and tried to get a good photo of this Lobster Claw plant and by jimminie crackers...I just can't. YOu've done a great catch.

Why is this flower talking to me and making me smile? The longer I look at it the happier I become. Great catch.

Some day we will get there and I thank you for your warm response. Someday...when COVID becomes endemic. ....................when.

Gorgeous post and the technical aspects of it are perfect. It is an eye catcher. I understand (from friends who visited Iceland) that everything is astronomically expensive, and they are on the "take" constantly which made my friend say that she will never return. I know the terrain is photogenic but the heartbeat of the nation is greed. How did you find it....beauty of the land aside?

Frank, so a single flower is the contest rule however ....other smaller buds in the background, or buds is OK or not? I am of the thought a single flower is a single flower...no buds, no bokeh of other flowers in the background.

WABI SABI photography. (no humans, no animals) FYI https://randomwire.com/wabi-sabi/

I rarely come to this side of grepless because I struggle with chops, ideas, and skill. I come to try and NOT BE LAST....so I want to say thank you very much for your suggestions...I just wish more people would comment so we can learn. THANK YOU AGAIN

The lower hand looks a little odd. I think more should have been left in front of the wood. Also I think a little more variety in color or design would have led to a much higher score.

The ornaments can now be seen clearly without being blinded. The 'eyes of the beholders' appreciate the change. Nice work.

Have a happy xmas over there photonut....all the best. XO

This is really professional work. I marvel at your ability to do this so beautifully.

You are gutsy to put this up LOL. ...........any why not?! Call it Xmas minimalism at it's best.

Yes, I see what you mean, for me, however, I like the richness of the story, albeit visually stimulating, perhaps too much for some. I bet if the background was all snowy we wouldn't have been talking about this shot.

May I come over...this looks like a very inviting home and tree.

Very chi chi or is that sheee sheee....nice, cool.

Clever....circles, stripes an eye catching wood carve!