North American River Otter

Sweet Kisses

Demonic Kisses

Lontra canadensis

Hamsa Hand

The word “hamsa” or “hamesh” means five. There are five digits on the hamsa hand, but the number five has additional symbolic meaning in the Jewish and Islamic traditions. Five or Hamesh in hebrew represents the five books of the Torah for Jews. It also symbolizes the fifth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, "Heh", which represents one of God’s holy names.
Hamsa hand is also known as the hand of Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron.
The Hamsa Hand itself has been used for centuries as a symbol of protection against evil and is known in Jewish lore as the “Hand of Miriam”.
Of ancient Middle Eastern origin, the Hamsa represents G-d's protective hand.
For centuries the Hamsa has been used as a symbol of Good luck. The Hamsa's positive energy draws happiness, riches and health.
Many believers place the Hamsa hand in their homes and at their work place to ward off the "evil eye".

Mezuzah

A mezuzah (Hebrew: doorpost) are religious texts (often contained in a decorative case) from Deuteronomy inscribed on parchment and rolled up in a case that is attached to the doorframe of many Jewish households in accordance with Jewish law. It is inscribed with specified Hebrew verses from the Torah. These verses comprise the Jewish prayer "Shema Yisrael", beginning with the phrase: "Listen, Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One."

The mezuzah is not, as some suppose, a good-luck charm, nor does it have any connection with the lamb's blood placed on the doorposts in Egypt. Rather, it is a constant reminder of G-d's presence and G-d's mitzvot.
The scroll must be handwritten in a special style of writing and must be placed in the case to fulfill the mitzvah.

Menorah

A Menorah is a candelabrum that has meaning in Jewish history and ritual. There is a seven branched Menorah and a special nine branched Hanukkah Menorah, which is also called a Chanukiah. A candelabrum with seven branches used in ceremonies to symbolize the seven days of creation
The lamp stand in today's synagogues, called the ner tamid (translated as the eternal flame), symbolizes the menorah. Many synagogues also have an ornamental menorah, usually with some critical detail changed (for example, with only 6 candles) to avoid the sin of reproducing objects of the Temple.
The Menorah has served as a uniquely Jewish symbol from antiquity to contemporary times. The Menorah can be found on ancient coins, gravestones, synagogue decorations. Today the Menorah serves as the seal and emblem of the Jewish State of Israel.

Cupid (Love Symbol)

Cupid or Eros means desire in Greek.
In the story of Cupid and Psyche, he is described as a magnificently handsome young man. In many stories, he is called the son of Venus.

According to Hesiod, Eros was the deity who came from Chaos and represented the primal forces of desire. Eros is said to have been born from the union of Aphrodite and Ares. Known as Amor (meaning love) to the Romans, the Cupid was often shown blindfolded in art to symbolize love's blindness.

Shamrock Meaning

Symbolic shamrock meaning got its most popular reputation in Ireland around the fifth century.
St. Patrick utilized the three leafed clover as an illustration of the Christian holy trinity. Each leaf representing: Father, Son, Holy Ghost

Specifically, the four-leaf clover is revered in Celtic myth for its emerald green hue and its vigorous growth.
Each leaf symbolizes a different lucky characteristic: fame, wealth, love, health.
If you wear a lucky clover, your sweetheart will come to you, if you possess one, no evil can harm you, and if you dream of one you will live happily for the rest of your days.
The notorious four-leaf clover is still considered a good luck symbol today because of its rarity.

Rose Meaning And Symbolism

Rose meaning and symbolism is known by almost everyone - otherwise it wouldn’t be the most popularly sent flower on Valentine’s Day! This page honors the upcoming event, and explores the richness of rose meanings and its lush symbolism.
Some helpful keywords pertaining to symbolic rose meaning: Love, honor, faith, beauty, balance, passion, wisdom, intrigue, devotion, sensuality and timelessness.
In mythology, rose meaning is associated with Aphrodite (Greek) goddess of love who was often depicted adorned with roses around her head, feet and or neck. In lore, we track down this association when we discover that a rose bush grew within the pool of blood spilled from Aphrodite’s slain lover (Adonis).
In addition to being a symbol of love, the rose is also symbolic carrier of secrets or tacit understanding.

Mexican Gray Wolf

Canis lupus baileyi

"Mexican wolves are the smallest subspecies of North American gray wolves. They are also the most endangered." cite

Read more about them here and here.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

He tried to escape the photo shoot,
but I got him right before he disappeared into the reeds.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Seven Falls

Views of Seven Falls from Mt. Cutler Trail.

Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The height of the seven falls is 181 feet and there are a total of 224 steps on the staircase from the base of the falls to the peak.

Mt. Cutler Trail V

Hands of God (Slavic Symbol)

The Hands of God is a pre-Christian symbol in Slavic mythology. It is representing Supreme God and Universe.
For Slavs, the cross was associated with fire and life, but generally with the sun and the balance of the Universe.
In a majority of primary and original cultures, it was believed to provide luck and the welfare.
The symbol itself consists of a large central cross (symbolizing arms and hands ended with five fingers, the comb shape), which represents the force of a Supreme God.

Lotus With Namam (Ayyavazhi Symbol)

Ayyavazhi(in Tamil, path of the father),is a Tamil Hindu monistic sect that originated in South India in the mid-19th century.
The symbol of Ayyavazhi is a lotus carrying a flame-shaped white Namam.
The lotus represents the 1,008-petalled Sahasrara
(in Tamil language, Ladam), while the Namam represents the Aanma Jyothi or atman.
Both of the Ayyavazhi scriptures refer to Thirunamam the ("flame shaped symbol" present in the top of the Lotus in the Ayyavazhi symbol), not to the lotus proper.
The symbol is the ideological summary of Akilam-based philosophy.
This symbol has been in use since the mid-20th century.

Nine Pointed Star (Baha'i Symbol)

According to the Abjad system of Isopsephy, the word Baha has a numerical equivalence of 9, and thus there is frequent use of the number 9 in Bahai symbols.
The most commonly used symbol connected to the number 9 is the nine-pointed star, there is no particular design of the nine-pointed star that is used more often than others. While the star is not a part of the teachings of the Bahai Faith, it is commonly used as an emblem representing "9", because of the association of number 9 with perfection, unity and Baha.
Baha'is believe all the world's major religions are part of God's continuing revelation of His Will for Humankind.
They believe each individual has a right and an obligation to pursue truth independently, and religious freedom is essential for the progress of Humanity.

Ek-Onkar (Sykh Symbol)

It is a symbol of the unity of God in Sikhism, and is found on all religious scriptures and places such as Gurdwaras.
The words Ek-Onkar have a firm place in Sikhism and it symbolizes a lot. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji opens with these words. Ek-Onkar means 'There is one God.'
Many Gurdwaras and Sikh organizations use this symbol on letters and other documents. In fact, many Sikhs also use this symbol on their letters.
This constant repetition of Ek-Onkar is done so that Sikhs are constantly reminded that there is only one God in the universe.

Khanda (Sikh Symbol)

The Khanda, like Ek-Onkar is one of most important symbols of Sikhism. The Khanda is commonly seen in Gurdwaras and on the Sikh flag. The Khanda symbolizes God's Universal and Creative Power.

The khanda is like a "coat of arms' for Sikhs. It became known as the Sikh National anthem, as the emblem of the Khalsa. It is an amalgam of three symbols, represented by three different items.

In the symbol the sword to the left represents truth, and the sword to the right represents the will to fight for what is right- dharma. The circle in the middle means that there is only one God, never beginning and never ending.

Jain Emblem

The Jain Emblem is a congregation of various symbols, each having a deeper meaning. In 1975 this symbol was adopted by all sects of Jainism while commemorating the 2500th anniversary of the nirvana of Lord Mahaveera.

The inner part of the symbol contains Swastika and Jain Hand.
The meaning of the mantra at the bottom is "Live and Let Live". All creatures should help each other.

The outline of the symbol is defined as the universe. Jainism says that this universe was neither created by anyone, nor can it be destroyed by anyone. It changes its form, but it has always been and will always be here.

Jain Swastika (Jainist Symbol)

Swastika symbol has much more relevance and significance in the Jain religion as compared to the Hindu religion.
In Jainism, Swastika represents the Seventh Jina, more popularly known as the Tirthankara Suparsva.
It is one of the most prominent auspicious symbols of the present era.
In the cultural traditions of Svetambar Jains, Swastika is one of the main symbols of the ashta-mangalas.
A Jain swastika is normally associated with the three dots on the top accompanied with a crest and a dot.

Jain Hand (Jainist Symbol)

The symbol of hand in the lower portion shows fearlessness and symbolize the feeling of AHIMSA (non-violence ) towards all the creatures in this world.

The palm of the hand signifies the assurance, indicating that human beings suffering due to karmic bondage do not need to be disheartened. Another meaning is “stop and think before you act to assure that all possible violence is avoided.” This gives us a chance to scrutinize our activities to be sure that they will not hurt anyone by our words, thoughts, or actions. We are also not supposed to ask or encourage others to take part in any harmful activity.

The wheel in the hand symbolizes SAMASARA (reincarnation cycle). It shows that if we are not careful and ignore these warnings and carry on violent activities, then just as the wheel goes round and round, we will go round and round through the cycles of birth and death.

The word in the center of the wheel is "Ahimsa" (non-violence). Ahimsa means avoidance of Himsa (violence).

Thanksgiving Day

On Thanksgiving Day the turkey usually gets center stage on the dinner table.
Since it's not getting center stage on my table today (having meatloaf), I thought I'd do it here.

Images taken at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs.

Mt. Cutler Trail IV

The sunny side.

Mt. Cutler Trail III

The shadowy side of the mountain and trail, just a wee bit snowy. 
Note to self:  add cleats for snow and ice to shopping list.

Best Blogger Award

Thank you Paula of Le Monde Pour Moi and

Lindy of A Photoblog by Lindy MacDuff for this award,

I am truly honored.

I´m passing this Award forward to these amazing bloggers:

Pildiblog by Remo Savisaar

Mostly On Matters of Photography

Nature Diary

MDS Images

Mountain Photographer

Picture Imperfect

Ergo Vassiljev Photography

Norsk Nettfoto

R. Ferrari

John's Photography

Fotos com paixao

Two Miles High

Daniel Sroka

Out of Focus

Cake Wrecks

Here are the details:

To accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and link back to that blog. Pass the award on to 15 blogs you have recently discovered and think are great. Remember to contact the bloggers you have awarded to let them know they have been chosen.

Paris Or Hongkong ?

Paris

(click the picture to enlarge)

Hongkong

(click the picture to enlarge)

Source: wikipedia

Related Post:
City of Light
Palm Jumeirah At Dubai

Mt. Cutler Trail II

Southwesterly views from the trail.

Mt. Cutler Trail

View of Colorado Springs from Mt. Cutler Trail, North Cheyenne Canon, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space XII

On a somewhat snowy morning. (14 Nov. 2009)
Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Serbian Cross

The Serbian cross with the 4 Cyrillic letters of 'S' (C). If displayed on a field, traditionally it is on red field, but could be used with no field at all.
In Serbian its called cetiri c read s or four c and and the four letters represent the slogan Samo Sloga Srbina Spasava or in english only unity saves the Serbs
The motif of a cross is derived from Constantine's labarum and has figured on Byzantine coins, since the 6th c. Later, the 4 symbols of the cross have been interpreted as flints or firestones, but also as the initials of the imperial motto of the Palaiologos dynasty: King of Kings, Ruling Over Kings.
The cross has been used by Serbian states and the Serbian Orthodox Church since the Middle Ages after Dušan the Mighty was crowned Emperor (Tsar) of the Serbs and Greeks.
Today it is the national, religious and ethnic symbol of Serbs and Serbia.

St. Brigid's Cross

St. Brigid was abbess and patroness of Ireland, and founder of the first Irish monastery in Kildare, was born near Dundalk in 450 A.D.
This cross is found throughout Ireland. It is told that the cross was made by Brigid, daughter of a pagan king from reeds to be used as an instrument of conversion. However, Brigid's name is derived from Brigit, a Celtic Goddess of fire, poetry, and smithcraft, and today the cross is used to protect houses from fire. This is an example of the integration of religious traditions.
It is piously believed that this rush cross, which became her emblem, keeps evil and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed.
For centuries, it has been customary on the eve of her feast-day for the Irish to fashion a St. Brigid’s Cross of straw or rushes and place it inside the house, over the door.

Presbyterian Cross

Presbyterian Cross is a cross used by Presbyterian church.

Presbyterianism, form of Christian church organization based on administration by a hierarchy of courts composed of clerical and lay presbyters. Holding a position between episcopacy and Congregationalism, Presbyterianism sought a return to the early practice of appointed elders as described in the New Testament.
Spiritually, Presbyterianism uses the principles of Calvinism and forms the main branch of the Reformed churches.

Saint Andrew's Cross

Saint Andrew's cross is a cross shaped like the letter X.
It is called so because Saint Andrew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, is reputed to have been crucified on a cross of this shape.
The St. Andrew's Cross is not unique to the Confederate battle flag. The reason that the CSA put the St. Andrew's Cross on its flag is the Scottish heritage of the South.
The Scottish national flag has the St. Andrew's Cross in white on a field of blue.
It is also called the Saltire, the Boundary Cross and the crux decussata. Saint Andrew is believed to have suffered a martyr's death on such a cross, hence its name. The cross does not have to be at this particular angle to qualify as a saltire; the symbol X can also be considered a St. Andrew's Cross.

Iron Cross

The Iron Cross is a common symbol enriched by Prussian and German history, and has become a popular icon on everything from belt buckles to motorcycles.
From its rich military heritage in the Prussian and German armies as the primary award for bravery to its common display on vehicles and as a fashion statement, the Iron Cross is both misunderstood and appreciated by many.
The Iron Cross was created by an architect named Karl Schinkel, and was awarded in 1813 for the first time.
The Iron Cross was also used as the symbol of the German Army from 1871 to 1915, when it was replaced by a simpler Greek cross. In 1956, the Iron Cross became the symbol of the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces. The traditional design is black and this design is used on armored vehicles and aircraft. A newer design in blue and silver is used as the emblem in other contexts.
It was a German medal awarded for outstanding bravery or service during wartime.

Cross Of St. James

The Cross of St. James is formed by a Fleurie Cross, where the lower part is pointed, making a Fitched Cross.
Such pointed crosses are said to have been carried in ancient times by Christian pilgrims, to thrust securely into firm ground.
They would then kneel before this upright cross for prayer. The Cross of St. James is also seen as a spear or sword blade (fitched) making this a warrior's cross.
It is most frequently depicted in red.

Square and Compasses (Symbol Of Freemasonry)

The Square and Compasses is the single most identifiable symbol of Freemasonry. Both the square and compasses are architect's tools, and are used in Masonic ritual as emblems to teach symbolic lessons.
Some Lodges and rituals explain these symbols as lessons in conduct: for example, that Masons should "square their actions by the square of virtue" and learn to "circumscribe their desires and keep their passions within due bounds toward all mankind". However, as Freemasonry is non-dogmatic, there is no general interpretation for these symbols that is used by Freemasonry as a whole.
Thus some take the Letter 'G' to represent Goodness, the essential goodness of Freemasonry and of humankind. Others argue that the letter 'G' stands for Geometry the basis of the operative craft that gave birth to modern Freemasonry.

Fountain Creek Regional Park XIV

Fountain Creek Regional Park XIII

There are many places at Fountain Creek to sit and watch.

Fountain Creek Regional Park XII

Scarab (Ancient Egyptiann Symbol)

The good luck beetle. Ancient Egyptians believed that a winged scarab flew across the sky each morning carrying the sun. He represented the god of dawn or creation and was worn for strength.

Called the dung beetle because of its practice of rolling a ball of dung across the ground. The Egyptians observed this behavior and equated it with the ball of the sun being rolled across the sky. They confused this balled food source with the egg sack that the female dung beetle laid and buried in the sand. When the eggs hatched the dung beetles would seem to appear from nowhere, making it a symbol of spontaneous creation. In this role it was associated with the sunrise. Khepri was the scarab headed god.

It seemed to the ancient Egyptians that the young scarab beetles emerged spontaneously from the burrow were they were born. Therefore they were worshipped as "Khepera", which means "he was came forth." This creative aspect of the scarab was associated with the creator god Atum.