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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.

In Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

The Olympics and Philippine Pride

Author sreisaatPosted on 6 Comments

This week, Sunday Stamps celebrates the Olympic spirit with two stamps that capture the essence of these global sporting spectacles.

First up, we have a piece of Estonian history. Issued in 2004 to coincide with the Athens Olympics, this stamp marks a significant milestone for Estonian athletes. After decades under Soviet rule, the Estonian Olympic Committee resumed its activity in 1989 and in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, they were finally competing under their own flag. Can you imagine the pride and excitement of these athletes finally representing their country on the world stage? It’s a powerful symbol of independence and national pride. Since then, Estonia has certainly made its mark on the Olympic stage, with an impressive medal tally to boast – 44 medals in both the Summer and Winter Games – 14 gold, 11 silver, and 19 bronze medals. (Source)

My second stamp is Italy’s contribution to the Olympic philatelic series is a beautifully designed €0.85 stamp from 2008, part of the ‘Lo Sport Italiano’ collection.

The design merges Ancient Greek motifs with Asian (Chinese) elements. It features a disc framed in a harmonious blend of Greek and Asian borders, with the figures of athletes reminiscent of Ancient Greek pottery art on one side, and Asian athletes on the other, symbolizing the global unity of the Olympic Games. The stamp is completed with the iconic Olympic rings and the words “GIOCHI OLIMPICI-PECHINO 2008” (“BEIJING 2008 OLYMPIC GAMES”), along with the country’s name and denomination.

Italy, a country with a rich sporting heritage, has hosted the Olympics three times and has an incredible medal count. Italy boasts an impressive tally of 772 medals from both Summer and Winter Games, reflecting its rich Olympic legacy. Having hosted the Games three times, with plans for the 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy’s passion for sports is evident.

The Philippines, in other news, just made history at the Paris Olympics! Our athletes have brought home TWO GOLD MEDALS and TWO BRONZE MEDALS! It’s an absolute dream come true. This is a monumental leap for Philippine sports, especially in men’s gymnastics. Who would have thought we’d be celebrating gold medalists in this category? And our female boxers? They are fearless and their determination and grit knows no bounds! Mabuhay kayo – Carlos Yulo, Aira Villegas, at Nesthy Petecio!

These victories are a testament to the incredible talent and unwavering determination of the Filipino athletes. They’ve overcome countless challenges, including limited resources, to stand on the world’s biggest stage. I can’t wait to see these heroes celebrated with their own stamps. They deserve all the recognition and honour we can give them.