s.p.q.b.

^{[I originally posted this entry as early access for my Patreon patrons on 22 April 2022].}

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untitled #240 [bruges, west flanders, belgium, 2014]

'Senatus Populus Que Brugensis' means 'the Senate and the people of Bruges'.

It can be found on the Bruges coat of arms and an ornate water pump featuring a swan in Bruges, as I found in 2014 during my time there.

pink petunias

^{[I originally posted this entry as early access for my Patreon patrons on 28 January 2022].}

From Wikipedia: The Maya and Inca believed that the scent of petunias had the power to ward off underworld monsters and spirits. Their flower-buds were bunched together for magical drinks. According to New Age folklore, Petunias will only thrive where there is "positive energy" and will not grow in places where there is "negativity".

When given as a gift, Petunias have (in the language of flowers) two mutually exclusive meanings, symbolising on the one hand being comfortable with someone, and on the other anger and resentment.

A somewhat clichéd image, the interpretation of petunias in the language of flowers feels appropriate right now.

It's a tribute to how comfortable I felt with my friend Anthony at all times. And the anger and resentment I feel in waves (mingled with melancholy and intense, overwhelming sadness) for the fact that his life was cut short.

And so many of the comments and posts I've seen about him since he passed highlight his gentle nature, positivity and enthusiasm.

hotel ^^^^

^{[I originally posted this entry as early access for my Patreon patrons on 24 August 2021].}