Litratong Pinoy - Kahit Ano (?)

These photos were voted as the best of 2008 in my other blog, Vienna Daily. Since that blog runs in another circle, I am also showing it here for all my friends to enjoy.

God's Hands- 28 June 08

Daisies - 6 Nov 08

Stephan's Church - 28 April 08

Mga litratong da best (daw) ng 2008 hehe. Happy LP!!!

Watery Wednesday - Sail

Lignano, Italy (Aug 08)

"There is no thrill in easy sailing

When the skies are clear and blue.

There is no joy in merely doing

Things which anyone can do.

But there is some satisfaction

That is mighty sweet to take,

When you reach a destination

That you never thought you'd make."
- Spirella

To believe in destiny is to say that the wind is merely blowing your sail to a direction you cannot control.

You have the capacity to control the rudder...you got the skill to balance.

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More than just a phone and calculator

My kids...they get so engaged when there's something new and techie that piques their interest.

They didn't even bothered looking at me when I took this shot. What are they so busy about? That was Bolt the movie on my iPhone.

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I extended my contract with Tmobile sometime ago and as a reward I could either get a free phone or use my 'points' to buy a cellphone for less. I consulted hubby about getting an iPhone, knowing that he would give me a nod, being the Apple fanatic that he is :D. I was surprised when he said I shouldn't. "It's just a touchscreen cellphone with a camera and calculator all those things other phones have," was the reply. I reiterated 'blah blah' until he said 'do as you like.' Yaay!

So I got the 8gb iPhone 3G for 49euros (yes, cheap!) but didn't take the 29euro insurance that comes with it. The condition says owner needs to register the phone to their corresponding insurance package within 7 days to ensure repair in case of damage or malfunction, replacement in case of loss (accidental or when stolen).

The hubby was real curious and got into experimental mode the moment I took the phone from the box. He installed a lot of applications (games, videorecorder, and whatnots cydya applications). Next day, the iPhone went kaputt!!! No carrier to connect to...so then I thought I should have gotten the insurance earlier! lol.

Anyway, like all those times when repairing PCs, he restored the phone in less than an hour...and he said he doesn't need the iPhone yet gave up his simcard for mine! (The plan for the iphone is for my simcard only). So there goes the iPhone I had for just a day or two...its now officially hubby's toy.

Weekend Snapshot - Spotless!

One thing I like about Vienna's cleaners is how they maintain the city's main streets and shopping district spotless. Admittedly, I am biased when comparing my 'home' to other cities I've been too...reasonably too because I've really seen how different it is...The city cleaners here (big vacuum cleaner-like machines) do their rounds on particular times of the day.

It is the same in the compound where we live every morning, we have a Hausmeister who is responsible for keeping all floors of the buildings clean...the yard, tidy and the rags free of cigarette butts. An extra effort too to clean the elevators, washing room and bicycle/stroller rooms. How clean is your city, are you satisfied?

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Scenic Sunday - Umbrellas

Lignano, Italy 2008

Umbrellas...in many ways they are poetic to me. I love how when I'm under an umbrella, I look up, left, or right and it's still there...And how romantic it is to be under an umbrella (beach umbrellas or not), with someone you love! :D Happy Sunday to all!

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Planters, Pots, Plants

I've been thinking of removing the big palm tree in our living room as it has withered slowly these past months. My guess was, the pot isn't big enough to contain the growing roots, or maybe I just got a black thumb.

Besides, I could actually use new decorative containers (planters) that complements our red walls.

I thought of visiting the nearest garden/interior supplies outlet to look for plants and planters alike, but because they are closed this holiday season I ended up looking online for planters. Planterixchange.com was my first stop, a detailed website of both decorative outdoor planters as well as indoor designer pots.

The site listed a detailed category of all planters by size, shape, color, material and those that

would certainly fit your budget.


Then in case you decide to order bulk (perhaps as gifts for your neighbors), they will ship them to you without hassle. Be sure to read the contents of the FAQ page for details and promos...especially if you're not from the U.S. like me.

Still, while browsing I got interested with their lovely display of window box planters. I really like those plants hanging by my neighbor's window, that I took a photo once (see there, pelargonias are planted).

The website lists some accessories too like plant stands, (stainless steel) watering cans and sprayers.

Definitely your one-stop shop for garden stuff...you can order online anytime or call: Order Toll Free (800) 448-2870 from Mondays to Fridays: 9am to 8pm E.S.T. - Saturdays and Sundays at 10am to 4pm E.S.T.

(Ships in 1-2 days.)


(Entry posted for Green Thumb Sunday.)

Photohunt - Squeaky

I couldn't think of a better photo for this theme than this. The duck that the little boy plays with when he takes a bath.

The little boy loves the water, he always gets excited when I call out for 'bathtime!' He calls all bodies of water 'swimming pool' even the water-filled tub hehe. I could also say that he loves the water more than this duck, he even squeaks a lot than it does! lol.

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A stagemom's frustration...or dream.

(photo edited at photofunia)

The monicker 'a stagemom' (or stagedad, which is rare) sometimes gives off a negative connotation than a 'supporting role' suggestion. Why not? Among the known actors and actresses worldwide, 2 out of 10 stagemoms would perhaps make themselves more popular than their children regarding rumors, pressures and (mis) management. Others would themselves end up as actresses too.

Aside from the responsibility of making sure that the kids get to castings, being on time for a shoot, stagemoms also need to keep their kids' attitude in check. In the process demanding special treatment for their child that others would often see as "too much."

Still, others deem stagemoms as somehow living their own dreams through their kids, in terms of fame and achievement.

I am, for a part, guilty of these descriptions...I am fond of photographing my kids and would be in (stagemom) heaven when I see them in print. I would scout for photocontests and look for a theme that their photo would best fit into. If not, I'd stage and shoot a few to be able to enter. I do see these chances as fun family events...which mom wouldn't be proud seeing their kids' poster on a wall admired by viewers? Oh, I don't know, but I am sure, its not me. ;-)

ABC Wednesday - W is for Will

You might wonder what this little boy's photo has to do with will (power).

Let me tell you about him, he is an almost 3 year-old boy who seldom cries. He loves singing and imitation is his favorite game. He would repeat words or follow you around the house and do whatever you do. We at home sometimes call him a 'papagei (parrot).' And to this he will reply, "I'm no papagei, you are!"

He is one determined boy, when he sets his mind to do something, he will do all he can for it. I cannot simply tell him off to stop, I guess that's what he got from me.

He can be difficult at times, but that's the fun in raising kids, or so I believe.

This photo was taken on our way home from his kindergarten, a 7-minute walk. He said he wanted to bring the paper bag home...no help from mommy nor from older sister and brother. The bag contains his dirty clothes, some artwork he and his brother did at the kindergarten and some more kulimpats.

I was hesitant to give him the bag, but he insisted and even gave out a smile when I aimed the phone camera for a shot! Well, I guess the little boy is trying to set his foot someplace he can prove himself useful. Having willpower might be useful someday!

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Let there be Light!

Ever imagined the old times when only candles light up the homes?

Well, thank God, things are different now. But thank manufacturers there are light fixtures for all home needs and of course thank Farreys.com, homeowners can extensively choose the lighting unit they are looking for from the site.

The search tool displays products depending on different categories (style, brand, or application) whether a simple light bulb or fine art lamps, you can certainly compare design, usage and prices from the results.

The wide selection includes both indoor and outdoor lighting, from top manufacturers Hinkley lighting, Minka lavery, Murray feiss and a lot more. Most of these manufacturers have been established long ago and knows their trade very well.

Bathroom fixtures, kitchen lighting and all that are also available for order. You are sure to find from a hundred selection of chandeliers, accent lamps, desk lamps, bath vanity strips, mini-pendants, pendant fixtures, picture lights, floor lamps, flush and semi-flush ceiling light fixtures, wall mounted sconces, wall mounted fixtures, one that would fit your taste and style.

You can make your lawn or pathways attractive with outdoor lights such as pier mount lanterns, post mount lanterns, flood lights, deck lights, landscape lighting and more.

If you are looking for top quality lighting that's affordable and aesthtically designed, visit Farreys.com, you won't be left looking in the dark.

Weekend Snapshot - Reflections

Reflecting on this year is not so difficult, it was a chaotic one for me, despite the laughs, fond memories and new friendships I gained. Chaotic in the spiritual sense, I was too busy about so many things, I got sick most of the time, even my bigger boy has had visits at the hospital and with the little girl going to school, it has (unwillingly) took a backseat....which is not so much a good thing.

I just felt empty...I know what I had to do yet I didn't...

(P.S. Photo was taken at McDonald's when I dined out with my bigger boy, another kid left it there while he and his mom ate.)

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Scenic Sunday - Art Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien (art museum Vienna) is one of the premier museums of fine arts and decorative arts in the world. The museum has an identical building opposite it, the Naturhistorisches Museum (science museum) and were both opened in 1891 by Emperor Franz Joseph I.

The main purpose of the museums were to house the collection of the Habsburgs...art and design at one and fossils, prehistoric artworks, even jewelries owned by the empresses on the other.

I unfortunately do not have the time yet to visit the displays at the museum, among the collections were of famous painters Dürer, Raphael and Michaelangelo.

Have a blessed week!

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Family Movie Night on a Wide Screen TV

A few days back, we went hunting for a new LCD tv to replace the plasma tv we have at our living room. At the shop, I just can't help being awed by this WIDE Screen (homecinema) tv on display...I just had to take a photo.

Hubby is more of the stay at home type of person that's why he sees to it that weekends would be an enjoyable time for the family. This is also why he makes sure that we enjoy watching our favorite movies at home conveniently and in a good environment.

We love movies, but a movie with everything in it, humor, emotion, cuteness would surely be a hit. Take this movie coming out in January, All Roads Lead Home. Based on a true story, the movie tackles family life after the death of a loved one, how they kept the family intact despite the absence of one...and how to let go. There's a lot of values to pick up, which I believe makes a good film.. This surely is one of the movies worth watching on a wide screen TV!

Here is a trailer of the movie, if you want to preorder a copy simply follow the link above.

Happy weekend!

Weekend Snapshot - Silver

The coldness of the season is surely visible at the city center... Gray and silver dominates the city and is dull...or?

Not! The city is well decorated and lighted up as always. Sales and all that are a welcome treat! ;-)

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Scenic Sunday - Venice

Gondolas, waterways, one look and you know its Venice. A city in northern Italy, the capital of the region Veneto, Venice relies on water for its transportation. The city is connected by more or less 400 bridges. No wonder Venice has been nicknamed 'The City of Bridges' and The City of Waters' among others.

Venice is Europe's largest urban car free area, unique in Europe in remaining a sizable functioning city in the 21st century entirely without motorcars or trucks.

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Camera Critters - Grasshopper or Cricket?

This little critter took a visit at our kitchen sometime last summer and scared the little boy for a scream.

So is it a grasshopper or a cricket? Though both are from the same family, crickets are nocturnal and this one came in the morning. Crickets tend to be brown or darker in color to blend in with shadows while grasshoppers blend in with grass.

Other differences might be the length of antennae, appearance of horns, ears and the sound they make when calling others of their kind.

Anyway, read here to know the role of crickets and grasshoppers in tracking climate change.

My first post for CC.

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For men

Hubby's recent change of career brought about changes in wardrobe too. It means no more casual shirts but more suits and ties.
He has hectic shedules at work so shopping for him was a task given to me.

I myself am a busy bee, so the best place I can spend time shopping is online, and lo! I found a very useful online portal, ShopWiki, that lists a variety of stuff about men's clothing---complete from shirts to ties, tuxedoes to training gears, shoes, pants and other accessories.

ShopWiki gives online shoppers a wider range of choices, more products, more stores, price comparison plus lots of valuable tips. I find their page on Men's Guide to Getting dressed helpful, especially the 'style' category. I am not particular with how my husband dress, so the points they gave there is an eye-opener of what clothes and accessory combination work well with each other and what's not. The portal interestingly provided also a Designer's page that gives buyers a good idea which among them is best to choose for certain types of clothing.

Also, being the shoeholic that I am, I tried searching for 'shoes' and whoa! in a hit, thumbnails of pumps and ballerinas and where to buy convinced me to shop more!

Photohunt - Favorite

Among siblings, one would be sweet; one comic and lovable; while the other obedient and kind. Among siblings, one would be good in art; one would be musically inclined; the other will find cooking as fascinating. Among siblings, a mom should always be equal, but then being imperfect, one can't help but have a favorite among her kids.

Meet my youngest, at the moment he is my favorite when taking portrait shots!

Happy weekend!

Portrait

An entry for Aisha's Contemporary Portrait Contest. A perfect opportunity for me since I love taking photos of my kids. In photo is my 7 year-old daughter (of course, you'd see her photo in the header too, a smiling version of this one). As mentioned, I like taking photos of my kids, candid and portraits, so this contest whether monetized or not is all worth it for me...but to win would be great too!

Mechanics for the contest is easy.

Just post a portrait photo. Link back to the main page or you can also
* Blog about the contest
* Follow Aisha's blog or Janet's blog
* Subscribe to feeds.

Join now, click here.

Litratong Pinoy - Inheritance

Today's theme is Mahalagang Regalo (Precious Gift)

"Pamana ni ang mga anak; gantimpala ang bunga ng sinapupunan."

(Mga Awit 127:3)

Marahil ay napapansin ninyo na palagiang silang tatlo ang nasa aking mga lahok, at paminsan minsan ay may kasamang berso mula sa Bibliya. Iyon ay dahil ito ang dalawa sa mga pinakamahalagang regalong natanggap ko...

Ang aking mga anak...need I say more?

Mahilig akong magbasa ng libro pero ito na siguro ang libro na di ko mabibitawan. Marami ang nagsasabing ang Bibliya ay luma na at tao lamang ang sumulat na ito...totoo pero ang nakasulat dito ay nauukol pa din sa panahon natin at sa pagbabasa ay malalaman mong ang sumulat ay 'inspired.'

Mahirap mang sundin, dito ko rin kinukuha ang mga turo at ibang payo sa kung paano ang dapat gawin sa mga sitwasyon ng buhay. (Ang hirap explain sa tagalog, basta...to me, the bible is like a manual God gave us.)

Ilan sa mga palagi kong naalala ay ang mga ito, mga katagang nagpabago sa aking buhay:

"Malalaman ninyo ang katotohanan at ang katotohanan ang magpapalaya sa inyo."

Juan 8:32

Anong katotohanan iyan?

"Ito ang buhay na walang hanggan: Ang makilala
ka nila, ang Tanging Diyos na totoo at si Jesucristo na
iyong sinugo."
Juan 17:3

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At gaya noong isang linggo may pahabol na isang magandang regalo para sa 'stagemama.' Ang aking mga kuting sa isang parenting magazine.

It has been a wonderful experience joining Litratong Pinoy for when it began until now. I was not one of the pioneer contributors though. If I remember correctly, my first entry was 'tatlo ang sulok' but I am really glad I joined because I was able to 'meet' lots of gorgeous and talented blogging (or plurking) friends!

To all of you my fellow Litratistas, here is an award...(please feel free to grab and pass but do link back - PR! joke, nakalimutan ko kasi lagyan ng signature...)

I would not be posting for some themes, so I'll see your LP entries next year...but I'll try to drop by (or plurk) as much!

Happy LP!

ABC Wednesday - Underground

One photography subject I find interesting would be symmetry inside the Underground that leads to the trains. Shallow as it may, I am amazed how this massive tunnels have been constructed. I've seen the construction though of some of Vienna's newest trainlines as I pass by everyday but I still think the endproduct is not only a convenient way for passengers but a wonder too.

Above is the trainstation Zippererstrasse U3 Line, below is Karlsplatz station which is notorious for the smelly elevators. Karlsplatz is in the city center where lots of other trainlines, trams, buses, local lines, sightseeing tourist vehicles abound.

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Litratong Pinoy - Eksayted nga ba?

Today's theme is Eksayted/Excited

Sino ang magsasabing excited ang bata sa pagkakita kay Sulley (Monsters Inc - Disney Pixar)? Kahit ako ay nagulat sa dambuhalang mascot na ito noong pumasyal kami sa Disneyland Paris ng nakaraang taon.

Ipinasyal namin ang mga bata at inasahan namin ni H (hindi ako yan, s H nung longhair pa) na mageenjoy sila dito dahil kilala nila lahat ng mga characters . Sa isang banda ay ganun nga, pero mukhang mas eksayted pa kaming dalawa na batang puso (isip-bata?). Kitang kita naman sa ngiti nya at talagang pumila sha para magpa-autograph kay Mickey Mouse!

Eto naman ang aming prinsesa, eksayted ng makita ang kastilyo ni Sleeping Beauty kaya naman nagbihis pa ng gown nya...Siyempre, eksayted din ang stagemama sa pagkuha ng litrato nya...pero mas excited ako ng paguwi namin galing sa Paris ay meron akong natanggap na kopya ng magazine kung saan nalathala ang litrato ng aming prinsesa bilang modelo ng Libro, isang tindahan ng mga gamit sa opisina at eskwela.

Happy LP po sa inyong lahat...excited na kong makita ang iba pang lahok!