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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.

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

Thursday Postcard Hunt: A Slice of Filipino Life on Canvas

Author sreisaatPosted on 9 Comments

This week’s postcard, a gift from the lovely Arlene over at I Love Postcrossing, is a true treasure. It features a stunning oil painting by the renowned Filipino National Artist (the first ever!), Fernando Amorsolo. The postcard, showing one of his masterpieces, is a nostalgic window into a bygone era of the Philippine countryside.

Postcard shows one of Fernando Amorsolo’s oil paintings. His works depict his love for the Philippine rural landscape and farmers/labourers.

Imagine a bustling rice harvest scene, painted with lifelike detail and bathed in warm sunlight. Women work side-by-side, tirelessly in the fields, their laughter mingling with the gentle breeze. Amidst the hardworking farmers, there’s a tender moment with one woman pausing her labour to nurse her baby. This simple act captured beautifully, speaks volumes about the heart of Filipino life. This was a time when communities came together to celebrate the fruits of their labor with feasts, music, and dance.

It’s fascinating to learn that Amorsolo’s journey to becoming a master began humbly. His mother’s embroidery helped support him, and young Fernando even sold his own watercolour postcards!

Amorsolo’s genius lies in his ability to capture the essence of Filipino. life. He was a master of light and shadow (chiaroscuro), using his signature backlighting technique to create scenes that feel almost ethereal. His works are a beautiful blend of realism and impressionism, drawing you into the heart of the painting. It’s no wonder he is nicknamed the Grand Old Man of the Philippine Art, a true National Treasure!

A big thank you to Arlene for sharing this piece of Filipino heritage with me. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the enduring beauty of our country.

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

Thursday Postcards Hunt: El Ángel, the Pride of Mexico

Author sreisaatPosted on 5 Comments

This week’s postcard is from Mexico! It’s the first of many I got from my awesome friend Luisito. Even though he lives in Caracas, Venezuela, we’ve been super close for years. He’s a real postcard enthusiast and sent me a whole bunch from his travels in Mexico, Hong Kong, and France.

The postcard features the iconic Angel of Independence, right in the heart of Mexico City. It’s officially called the Column of Independence – Columna de la Independencia – but everyone just calls it El Ángel. This towering monument stands in the middle of a busy roundabout and is a symbol of Mexico’s fight for freedom. It was built to celebrate 100 years since Mexico’s War of Independence started in a neoclassical design similar to famous monuments in Europe. At the very top, there’s a golden statue of the Greek goddess of victory, Nike, symbolizing Mexico’s triumph over Spanish colonial rule.

In later years, the base of the monument was transformed into a mausoleum honoring Mexico’s brave heroes who fought for independence. Their remains are enshrined within, serving as a permanent tribute to their sacrifice. The column’s base also bears the names of key figures in the war, immortalizing their contributions to the nation.

El Ángel is more than just a striking monument; it’s a powerful symbol of Mexican identity and unity. As a focal point for national celebrations, protests, and gatherings, it has become a beloved gathering place where Mexicans come together to express their pride and patriotism.