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In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

The Colourful Thanksgiving Parade on Stamps

Author sreisaatPosted on 6 Comments

Finally back in the city! And in this week’s Sunday Stamps, the theme is colours and I have a set of stamps celebrating a beloved American tradition – the Thanksgiving Day Parade!

In 2009, the USPS issued four commemorative stamps featuring iconic scenes from this joyous holiday event. Unfortunately, my collection only holds two of these four se-tenant stamps.

Even with just these two stamps, we get a vibrant glimpse into the parade’s atmosphere. One stamp showcases a lively marching band, while the other features beloved characters and the larger-than-life turkey balloon that have become synonymous with the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Take a look at the full strip:

While I haven’t personally witnessed this extravagant event, I’m captivated by parades and the artistry of floats. These stamps perfectly capture the essence of the Thanksgiving Day Parade, just like the ones I see on TV. They offer a colourful window into American culture and the spirit of this special holiday.

The vibrant colours on the stamps are a result of designer Paul Rogers’ unique approach. He drew inspiration from mid-century advertising and poster art, then used digital techniques to bring them to life on these miniature masterpieces. (Source)

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Sunday Stamps: Flower Power

Author sreisaatPosted on 5 Comments

I’m late for this week’s Sunday Stamps as I am traveling (work) and forgot to autopost.

This week’s theme, “patterns,” is beautifully exemplified by the Finnish Post Office’s 2011 series of glow-in-the-dark stamps featuring the (illustrated) dahlia flowers. Known for their annual tradition of crafting unique stamp designs, the Finnish Post Office’s choice of the dahlia flower is a nod to the intricate patterns found in nature and inviting us to take a closer look at the everyday wonders around us.

The dahlia, native to North America and Mexico, was introduced to Europe in the 16th century and has since captivated flower enthusiasts with its geometric beauty. The stamp design showcases two radiant dahlias set against a dark background.

Dahlias symmetrical patterns are a testament to the mathematical precision in nature’s creations. The petals of a dahlia follow a fascinating sequence that aligns with Fibonacci numbers, a series where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones. This sequence creates a spiral pattern that can be seen in the arrangement of seeds, fruits, and flowers, including dahlias. This natural occurrence of patterns is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves as an inspiration for artists and designers in various fields.

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Jeepney: Philippines’ Rolling Masterpieces

Author sreisaatPosted on 8 Comments

For this week’s Thursday Photo Hunt, I’m presenting to you the Philippines’ iconic mode of transportation and a public art gallery on wheels: the jeepney. More than just a vehicle, the jeepney is a living, breathing masterpiece that encapsulates the Filipino spirit.

These colourful jeepneys used to be the King of the Road.

The jeepney was born from the ingenuity of Filipinos after World War II. When American troops left the Philippines, they left behind surplus military jeeps. Resourceful Filipinos transformed these vehicles into public transport, extending their frames, adding roofs, and decorating them. The name “jeepney” is a blend of “jeep” and “jitney,” a term for early American shared taxis. (Source)

Over the years, the jeepneys have evolved into a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic flair. Adorned with intricate designs, bold colors, and often religious or pop culture themes, jeepneys are a feast for the eyes. They are  like mobile art galleries, each one a unique expression of its owner’s creativity and personality. From religious icons to comic book heroes, the decorations are as diverse as the Filipino people themselves. Today, these vehicles are more than just a means of getting around; they are rolling public art galleries that reflect the nation’s rich culture and imagination.

Riding a jeepney is an adventure in itself. As a former student and a commuter, I can attest to the thrill of squeezing into a packed jeepney with other students, enjoying discounted fares and the camaraderie of shared experiences. The music, the crowds, the constant motion, the smell – it’s a sensory overload. Passing the fare along the row, like a human conveyor belt, to the driver and back for the change, is a unique Filipino custom. And when it’s time to disembark, the simple phrase “mama, para po sa tabi” (stop here, please) is all you need to signal your stop. Beyond the ride itself, the jeepney offers a front-row seat to the daily lives of Filipinos . It’s a place to observe, to connect, and to be inspired by the vibrant spirit of the nation (read: weaving stories around the faces around me while riding the jeep home).

More jeepney photos here.