Click. Snap. Shoot.

Moving!

2011-05-26T14:22:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone!

I decided that I'm going to maintain only one photoblog. It's just too much work to have 2 and more or less I'm posting the same things anyway.

You can find me at clicksnapshoot.tumblr.com :)

Field of Flowers

2011-05-02T13:47:00.000+08:00

taken at Olympia, Greece

Loved all the pretty wild flowers that were all over Greece. They're just so pretty. :)

Back from the Land of Souvlaki

2011-05-01T22:43:00.000+08:00

taken at Olympia, Greece

Just got home from a 2 week vacation from Greece! It was lovely... Greece is such a gorgeous country full of history and not to mention, delicious food! Expect to see a lot of pictures... I have 1000+, not counting my lomo shots!

This photo was taken in the site of the first Olympic games which is in Olympia (hence called Olympic games). Back then, only the men were allowed to compete and get this... they competed completely naked! So naturally, women were not allowed to watch these games. They competed naked not for any malicious reason but because they saw the human body as a beautiful form which is also why there are so many statues of naked men before.

My World Tuesday is Still In Fuego

2011-04-12T09:47:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego

Spent another weekend at our place in Punta Fuego. I love this house so much! I want to spend every weekend here! Hello summer... :)

For more corners of the world, click here.

The Drum Tower

2011-04-07T19:14:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

Light Up The Sky

2011-03-31T21:09:00.000+08:00

taken at Hong Kong

One of the things I love about cities are the night skylines. Especially in Hong Kong where they love their neon lights!

Nowhere to go but Up

2011-03-29T20:20:00.000+08:00

taken at Assumption, San Lorenzo

The Lord is really good. Life has been pretty tough for me these past few months and now things have been getting better. He may not give you what you want, but He does give you what you need. :)

The Road Less Travelled

2011-03-24T21:26:00.000+08:00

taken from the cable car ride going to the Po Lin Monastery

To get to the Po Lin Monastery, you need to take a scenic 20-minute cable car ride. Personally, I really enjoyed this because I imagined that I was flying over the mountains, hehe. From the cable car, I could see this path that started all the way from where we boarded until the Po Lin Monastery! Now that is one helluva hike! Seriously, are there people who really walk that path??

Splash of Red

2011-03-19T11:15:00.000+08:00

taken at the Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong

Love the little splash of red against the green and orange. There were a lot of oranges in the monastery, I'm guessing because they use them as daily offerings.

Yoga At The Peak

2011-03-17T15:50:00.000+08:00

taken at Victoria Peak in Hong Kong

I couldn't resist playing around with silhouettes with these lighted boards at the roof deck of the Peak. Even if it was freezing cold, I made my friends pose in front of the light. I could have framed this shot better but I still liked how it came out!

My World Tuesday is Playing Tag

2011-03-15T10:57:00.000+08:00

taken at Assumption, San Lorenzo

This shot is one example of the candid shots I mentioned in my previous entry. This little boy has cancer and even for a few hours, we were able to make them feel extra special. There are some blurry parts in this photo but I still like it. I especially like that this little boy connected with this camera. Even if you can't see his smile, his eyes are telling you he's happy.

Now can someone please share tips on how to capture action shots with less blur? :)

For more parts of the world, click here.

Portrait #1: Hailey Garcia

2011-03-14T19:25:00.000+08:00

Meet Hailey. She's my friend's adopted sister and I must admit, she's quite a handful! Expect a lot of running when you take care of her.

I want to learn how to take better portrait shots and candid shots of people. Lanscapes are beautiful but people tell a story. I need to figure out how to lessen the blurs of movement although sometimes they do make a photo look more interesting!

Tofu.

2011-03-13T13:46:00.000+08:00

taken at Hong Kong

tofutofutofutofutofutofu.

Incense in the Temple

2011-03-12T09:01:00.000+08:00

taken at the oldest Manmo Temple in Hong Kong

Rows and rows of incense... each hung there for a different intention.

Skywatch Friday is at Victoria's Peak

2011-03-11T22:27:00.000+08:00

taken at Victoria's Peak in Hong Kong

I loved the view from the Peak! It was sooooooooooo cold though. My friends and I were not dressed properly and I was shivering the entire time I was taking pictures but it was so worth it!

For more skies, click here.

Skywatch Friday Is Inverted

2011-03-04T20:37:00.001+08:00

taken at the Hot Air Balloon Festival

This pair of hot air balloons really caught my eye. How can you miss an inverted hot air balloon? At first I was worrying about the people who are supposed to be in that balloon! Good thing they announced that the balloon is connected to the upright balloon and the team flying it is actually at the bottom so there wasn't anything to worry about!

For more skies, click here.

Skywatch Friday Went Sky Diving

2011-02-25T17:07:00.000+08:00

taken at the Hot Air Balloon Festival at Clark, Pampanga

One of the things that are on my bucket list is to skydive... one day, I will! I just hope I have the guts to actually jump out of the plane.

For more skies, click here.

Walking' In Shanghai

2011-02-24T15:34:00.000+08:00

taken at Shanghai, China

I've been missing my SuperSampler so I'll be posting some of my shots to inspire me to bring it out again. :)

My World Tuesday is a Pirate

2011-02-22T18:52:00.000+08:00

taken at the Hot Air Balloon Festival at Clark, Pampanga

It's ALIIIIIIIVE! Apart from the Darth Vader balloon in my previous entry, the Little Pirate was one of my favorite balloons. He's just too cute! Here you can see that he's slowly coming to life and a whole sea of people are waiting for him to up and fly away.

Team Baila

2011-02-21T11:10:00.000+08:00

Summer is coming up and that means that our Baila dance workshops will be starting soon! Can't wait to dance again. :)

I Am Your Father...

2011-02-20T18:15:00.000+08:00

taken at the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark, Pampanga

I FINALLY attended the Hot Air Balloon Festival. My friends and I were there by 4am to line up for tickets and it was worth the adventure! We saw the balloons inflate and take off, there were sky divers and paragliders too! I'm loving that I've been doing new things this 2011 and it's only February!

Photo Wall

2011-01-19T20:45:00.000+08:00

I think I would like a photo wall in my room once I buy an Instax!

Skywatch Friday Welcomes 2011

2011-01-07T10:19:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego

First sunset of 2011. A sign that this will be a good year. :)

For more skies, click here.

World Expo

2011-01-06T18:02:00.000+08:00

taken at the Shangai World Expo

I forgot all about our Shanghai pictures from last October! There were soooo many people there, it was crazy and not fun. We ended up just walking around looking at the pavilions from outside. Inside, it's like you're stuck in a can of sardines! That red structure over there is the Chinese pavilion.

Little Patrice

2011-01-05T22:31:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego

Meet Little Patrice. She's the adopted daughter of my dad's friends and she is the sweetest thing! At only one and a half years old, she already knows how to pose for the camera. Every time I point my camera at her she breaks in to this adorable smile! She is just too cute.

My World Tuesday Has Bulletholes

2011-01-04T11:44:00.000+08:00

taken at Corregidor

Corregidor Island was the setting for a gruesome battle of the Americans and Filipinos versus the Japanese. Here's just a reminder of the war that went on there, years ago.

For more corners of the world, click here.

My World Tuesday is a Fireball

2010-12-28T09:11:00.000+08:00

taken at Boracay

Boracay really is one of my favorite places in the world. The perfect sand, friendly people... its beautiful. I took this picture one night in one of the bars along the beach and they had a show with the firedancers. It was an amazing site! It may sound cheesy but it's a beautiful form of dance. The fire is absolutely mesmerizing! If you find yourself in Boracay, you shouldn't miss this. :)

I whipped out my Holga, set it on the bulb setting and let the firedancer work her magic. The outcome reminds me of that anime, Dragonball. Haduken!

For more corners of the world, visit this site.

The Holidays Are Coming

2010-12-26T22:14:00.000+08:00

Hope everyone had a very merry Christmas and celebrated it with the people most important to you. :) Every year, my family goes to our beach house with our relatives and celebrates the coming of a new year with lots of love, laughter and booze. It's one of my favorite traditions! Hehehe... I love how crazy my family can get!

How are you welcoming in the new year?

You and Me

2010-12-24T15:02:00.000+08:00

taken at Boracay

It's always going to be you and me babe.

By The River

2010-12-23T08:23:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing, China

Watery Wednesday is In Beihai Park

2010-12-22T18:13:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing, China

I love the shot of this lone boat on the lake. I would have likes to have taken a ride around the park as well but we didn't have the time.

Little Tala

2010-12-19T08:23:00.000+08:00

Meet Tala Miller. She's the daughter of my good friend, Gail. Isn't this too cute? And I love her zebra leggings!

Simple Joys

2010-12-18T09:19:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park, Beijing

Good customer service is always key to a good business. I complained to the place I have my film developed that the shots of one of my rolls were missing and they immediately resent all my photos for free! Yey! When I saw the shots from my Vivitar, I couldn't believe it still had shots from my Beijing trip which was like in May if I'm not mistaken. Unfortunately it takes me longer to finish my 35mm rolls since the Vivitar has no flash, I definitely can't use it at night, unlike the Holga. There are no settings I can tinker around with to help brighten the shot on a cloudy day either so I'm very picky about when I can whip out my Vivitar and take pictures. It has to be a relatively sunny day.

On a sadder note, my lola (grandmother) passed away last night at 11:10pm. Please say a little prayer for her. She had quite a struggle against cancer and of course I'm sadden that she has left us but at the same time glad she doesn't have to suffer anymore. It's been a tough few months for her. I just wish we were there to say good bye.

How I Miss You Boracay

2010-12-15T21:42:00.002+08:00

taken at Boracay, Philippines

I got my film today! Yey! Bad news though is that one was unexposed (how can that happen??) and the photos from my Vivitar don't seem to be in the CD. Definitely calling the hotline tomorrow.

Only 2 days to go before my last day from my month-long stint in my old agency and honestly, I can't wait. The account that they needed help with was really tough and I can't say I'm going to miss them. I'm looking forward to going back to my usual life and I appreciate being a struggling entrepreneur even more. I'm super excited for 2011, January is already looking interesting! Another business is coming up and I'm sooooo excited. It's something new here in the Philippines. :)

Oh Dear Blog, How I've Missed You!

2010-12-07T22:35:00.000+08:00

taken at the Yabang Pinoy Bazaar

I've been away for waaaaaay too long! I apologize for that. Things just have been pretty busy plus, I haven't had the chance to take any blog-worthy photos. That just means I need to take more photos! I have a bunch of used rolls of film that needs developing, pronto!

This photo was taken during one of the bazaars Hanky Panty participated in. Couldn't figure out how to flip the photo but the sign says "there's no excuse for boring underwear!"

It's Our China Year

2010-10-12T17:26:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing

We're off to China again in a few days but this time, we're going to Shanghai! I missed blogging... but I don't have much new photos I want to share so I've been MIA again. I'll have a new set again once I'm back from Shanghai! So looking forward to eating xiao long pao! Yum!

Must remember to order film later so I can get it by Thursday!

My World took a Tram Ride

2010-09-21T09:04:00.001+08:00

taken at Corregidor

Things have been pretty crazy again for me, trying to set up other businesses. I have to admit, its frustrating to be working hard on all these things and not make money from them yet. I keep reminding myself to be patient and one day, I will reap the rewards of all my hardwork. PATIENCE!!!

For other corners of the world, click here.

Spanish Courtyard

2010-09-06T10:24:00.000+08:00

taken at San Agustin Church

Remember the wrought iron heart I posted here? This is the courtyard that gate led to. I really like the fountain in the middle and I'm sure it would be even prettier if it was on. I imagine what it would have been like here during the Spanish era. I bet they held banquets out here!

Skywatch Friday Knows The Time

2010-09-04T08:47:00.002+08:00

taken at Venice, Italy

Yeah, I'm a day late for Skywatch Friday but better late then never right? ;p This has got to be one of the coolest clocks I've ever seen! Although it's kinda difficult to tell the time... the time I took this shot it was like 7.... something..... Can I just say it was a couple of minutes to 8?? And the moon was up!

Oh Italy, how I miss you.

Check out more skies here.

Missing My Film

2010-09-03T09:16:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

I miss my lomo cameras. My supplier was MIA since April and finally has reappeared a couple of weeks ago. Thanks God coz I was having a really hard time finding another supplier! Lomography is not a cheap hobby at all. I'm trying to finish a roll of film in my Holga but weather hasn't been very sunny over here and I prefer taking photos on sunny days. Since film is so expensive, I can't just click away like there's no tomorrow! I really try to get a good shot everytime. I love the anticipation of seeing my film developed and hoping for an extraordinary photo. Lomo is love. :)

Love From Above

2010-09-02T11:31:00.000+08:00

taken at the San Agustin Church, Manila

I love this wrought iron design that was placed over the gate of the courtyard in the San Agustin church. Exploring old Manila really is fun. I loooove traveling and whenever I'm in another country, I soak up all their history and culture. Then I realized that I've forgotten all the history of my own country and visiting Intramuros and Corregidor has reminded me about the journey our country has gone through to get to where we are now.

Let It Guide Your Way

2010-09-01T08:46:00.000+08:00

taken at Corregidor

Yesterday, I was on my way to Makati and stuck in traffic along Pasong Tamo. I was texting my friend and complaining that I didn't have a regular cash flow, I needed to find a way to make more money, what I was making from my stall wasn't enough, I was getting impatient with having to wait for the other businesses to give me cash flow etc, etc. Right after I sent a long and whiny text message, I look out the window and saw a homeless man sleeping on the sidewalk with no shirt on and broken slippers. It was like the Lord was the Lord was reminding me about all the other blessings I have. There I was, in the comforts of my own car, complaining that the money I am getting each month isn't enough but this man probably doesn't get anything. That image really put things in perspective. I may not be getting the money I want each month YET but I'm getting there. I'm lucky to have parents who are helping me out while I work on my financial freedom.

Thank you, Lord for that reminder yesterday. Instead of complaining about my cash flow, I'll use that reminder to make me work harder to reach my goals faster.

1st Blog-iversary!

2010-08-30T08:01:00.000+08:00

taken at Corregidor

August is practically over and I almost forgot that my blog-iversary was last August 17!! Click Snap Shoot has been around for a year already. It actually feels longer! I'm looking forward to many more pictures to share and friends to meet with this blog. :)

A Little Something To Say

2010-08-28T09:00:00.001+08:00

taken at Corregidor

It saddens me that after the hostage situation that happened in our country, people all over the world have generalized us Filipinos. Please, do not judge all of us by the actions of one man.

At Corregidor: MacArthur's office

2010-08-27T08:34:00.000+08:00

taken at Corregidor, Philippines

This was Gen. MacArthur's office on the island after it was bombed by the Japanese.

My World is Down The Tunnel

2010-08-24T08:16:00.002+08:00

taken in the Malinta Tunnel at Corregidor

Carlo and I took a day trip to Corregidor last Saturday for our 3rd anniversary. Corregidor is an island a one-hour ferry ride away from Manila Bay. This island was the center of the war between the Americans and Filipinos against the Japanese back in the 1940s. This tunnel was where President Manuel L. Quezon stayed in during the war. Many soldiers died in this tunnel... it gave me the heebie jeebies!

Check out this site for more corners of the world.

The Hair Flip

2010-08-23T17:38:00.001+08:00

taken by Alejandro Rivera for Hanky Panty

I've been neglecting my blog... So sorry! Just had to share with you guys my favorite shot from our photo shoot. I loooooove this picture! How awesome is that hair flip? Now I wish my hair was long so I can have a shot like this too hehe. To check out our other designs, please visit our official Hanky Panty site. You can also add us on Facebook and Twitter.

One of the things I would love to get in to is fashion photography. I know fashion photographers here aren't paid as much as commercial photographers but fashion is so much more exciting don't you think? :)

Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head

2010-08-11T23:21:00.000+08:00

taken at Venice, Italy

I have been soooo busy the past few weeks! My baby has finally been launched last Monday! My friend and I launched Hanky Panty, we make undies with cute and quirky designs but at more affordable prices ranging from P180-190 ($4-5).

Having my own business has always been my dream and it has finally become a reality! The whole process is such a learning experience. Everyday, there's a new obstacle to overcome. Things hardly go as planned and there's no use fretting over what we should have done, rather we have to think of what can we do about it? This mindset is helping me get through the whole "birthing pains" of the business because without, I would be stressing over every little thing that goes wrong (and there have been a few) and that would take all the fun out of it!

Last night, I had so much things going on in my head that I couldn't sleep until 4:30am! So to make use of my time, I went through photos from our Italy trip last year and finally uploaded them in Facebook. Now I'm missing Italy again. Sharing with you guys a photo of awesome art that was in a department store in Venice. The artist was inspired when he got caught in the rain while under a lamp post. I love this because it really looks like I'm standing under the rain.

Skywatch Friday At Beihai Park

2010-07-30T09:04:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing China

I wish we had huge parks like this in Manila! I'm sure I would spend some afternoons reading a book by the lake.

My World Likes Lamps

2010-07-28T10:15:00.000+08:00

taken at Resorts World

Last Saturday, the boyfie and I checked out Resorts World, this relatively new casino that's located near the airport. I'm not a big gambler, I don't like risking my hard earned money so that was actually only my second time to ever enter a casino. We gave ourselves a budget of P500 ($12) to spend and we were only going to play the slot machines. I'm sure all you veteran casino lovers will say "what?! that's nothing!" but I really couldn't bear to part with more money especially now that I still don't have a regular cash flow. So anyway, we stuck to only the slot machines coz we both don't play poker and are not confident of our black jack skills! I must admit it was fun while it lasted... which was only 5 minutes. I lost P400 in 5 minutes! Since we can't take pictures in casinos, I took a picture of the pretty lamps in the restaurant of the casino. Wouldn't you love to have those in your room? I took this using my iPhone's lomo app.

Find What You Love

2010-07-27T09:09:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing, China

Read a part of Steve Jobs' Commencement Address for Stanford University back in June 2005, really reminds me that I made the right decision of going for my dream.

Sometimes life hits you on the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only things that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers.

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle.

As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle.

Classic Toys

2010-07-26T09:37:00.000+08:00

Taken at the art district of Beijing, China

I saw these toys being sold along the sidewalk of the art district in Beijing and I just loved these vintage toys!! My favorite was the van with the surfboards on top.

You Choose Your Own Path

2010-07-23T11:00:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing, China

We don't always know what path life will lead us which can be pretty scary. Last year was a year of soul searching for me. I was going through the quarter-life crisis and it was NOT fun. I didn't know if I wanted to stay in advertising because I felt I wasn't going to get financial freedom there. I had fun in the industry but I was slowly getting tired of the job description. I was an account manager, aka client's slave. I was also playing around with the idea of taking my MBA in NYU but then I realized it wouldn't benefit me anyway. They say that in the world of advertising, 2 years of experience is much better than 2 years of taking an MBA. Plus I was considering it for all the wrong reasons - I was looking for an excuse to live in another country for awhile. I wanted to experience independence in a different country. I always knew that I wanted to get into entrepreneurship so that when I have my own family in the future, I would have my own business where I have more control of my time and still contribute to the family income. I don't want to rely on my future husband for everything! I want to make something of myself too. I am woman, hear me roar!

So it became clear to me that I wanted to go entrepreneurship... but what business was I going to get in to? 3 years ago, I borrowed money from my parents to put up a franchise of a fruit shake kiosk. I never really spent any time taking care of it and my crew probably stole money from me but I just wasn't interested. I realized that I had an opportunity right there and it would be a waste if I didn't make the most of it. Another was Baila!, a dance studio I have been going to since 2003. I came on as a partner in 2007 but never was active in it. Actually, most of the partners weren't so since no one was paying any attention to it, of course the studio wasn't making much money. That was another opportunity right there! I love that studio and felt there was so much potential and it would be a shame for it to close.

That sealed the deal. I had 2 businesses when I left my job last March 31. Right now, I'm also working on a business which will launch in August, so watch out for that! I like the path I'm on. I still have a lot of things to work to get to my financial freedom but I know I'll get there. :)

Posters

2010-07-22T13:32:00.000+08:00

taken at the art district in Beijing, China

Posters were up all over the art district, unfortunately, I had no idea what they were announcing. I also decided to make my photos bigger in my entry... something i obviously should have done from the start!

I've been pretty busy nowadays. Since I left my corporate job in advertising, I was a little worried I would get bored or I wouldn't be motivated to really work on my businesses. I'm pleasantly surprised that I'm keeping myself really really busy. It's actually pretty tough juggling marketing our dance studio, setting up another business with my friend and running the franchise I got of a fruit shake stand. What really gets me moving on all these is the fact that the money I have in my bank account is slooooowly getting smaller. I know I HAVE to make money because if not... well we know all know where that would lead!

I get asked how is the "lady of leisure" and seriously, I am far from that. Leisure is not the word I would choose to describe my life right now. Busy, hectic and tiring would be a few. But honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. It's especially exciting for me to be putting up my own thing. I know all the hard work will go somewhere and it will directly benefit me, not a company.

I realized another thing that I want to put on my vision board. When I'm all successful, I want to become a consultant for start up businesses. I want to be able to help aspiring entrepreneurs such as myself. In the whole process of starting up a business, I realized also that I love marketing. Its my favorite part of businesses! Oh and I want to support an organization such as WWF or PETA. The environment has no voice and can't ask us for help. We need to be the ones to take the initiative to protect them.

Here's to you lil bro

2010-07-20T14:34:00.001+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

Growing up, my brother and I were constantly fighting. The times that we weren't playing together, we were fighting. I guess it came with the 5-year age gap we have but once my brother was in high school and I was in college, things changed and we finally got along. I have to admit, I'm a very protective older sister but he's 22 now so I better start letting him make his own mistakes because really, its the only way he'll learn.

So happy birthday Paolo, my one and only favorite brother in the whole wide world! Have a great 22nd birthday. Love your big sister.

Orange Bursts

2010-07-17T09:23:00.001+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

One can't help but smile when you see a bunch of pretty flowers... I know I can't. :)

Skywatch Friday Is At The Great Wall

2010-07-16T09:31:00.001+08:00

taken at the Great Wall of China

It was pretty hazy when we were at the Great Wall but it still didn't make a difference, the Wall was AMAZING!

Bricks

2010-07-15T17:52:00.001+08:00

taken at the Beijing Art District

My World Saw A Floating Head

2010-07-13T09:00:00.001+08:00

taken at Mimi's house

This statue has an eerie yet elegant feel to it. Love how the light just plays up the drama even more!

Brown Girl Dancing

2010-07-12T11:13:00.002+08:00

taken at Beijing's Art District

This little piece of art caught my eye. She has such character!

Step By Step

2010-07-11T11:44:00.001+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

It was a looooong way up!

Lunch Break

2010-07-08T10:58:00.001+08:00

taken at Greenbelt 5

Took this picture of my ex-officemates on my last day of work. I miss those guys! My team was the reason I stayed as long as I did. They're awesome. :)

Lovers At The Park

2010-07-07T07:59:00.000+08:00

taken at Beihai Park in Beijing, China

I love how this could look like an old picture from back in the day. One of the things I really enjoyed doing in Beijing was walk around this park and the Summer Palace. It's really a place where you can just sit on a bench and read while enjoying the sunny day.

My World Loves Thai Food

2010-07-06T09:13:00.000+08:00

taken at Chariya Thai Restaurant

My boyfriend works in sales for a food company so he discovers all these hidden gems of a restaurant all over the city. It's so fun to explore hole in the wall restaurants that really offer valur for your money. One of our favorites is this little hole in the wall restaurant along Nicanor Garcia street in Makati City where they serve really really good Thai food. It has only about 10 tables and has no aircon but the food is sooooo worth it! Servings are big and the price, super affordable. You can have a meal for two for just P200 ($5) and still have food to take home! This shot is of the simple decor on the wall which adds to its charm. I used Jellybean (my Holga) and used Fuji Provia.

Oh, the baby shower was a success! We had so much fun, especially with the baby charades... I swear, charades is a no fail game! So much fun. :) I can't wait for my friend to give birth. She's due end of August but she has a feeling it will be sooner than that.

Colored Cows

2010-07-05T09:25:00.001+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

One of my favorite spots in Beijing was the art district. There were so many quirky sculptures and paintings everywhere! You could spend the whole day just going through the stores filled with all sort of knick knacks and whatnot. Then when you get tired, you can stop at a coffee shop and admire more art in the area. I went all trigger happy over there! I'll definitely be posting more pictures from that area soon.

On other news, I'm taking break from cramming the games for my friend's baby shower tonight! I just finished my "who's your daddy (or mommy)" deck wherein i'm going to flash pictures of babies then they have to guess who is their celebrity mom or dad. Now I'm brainstorming for charades... I need things related to babies so they can act it out later! My friend is due to give birth in October and I can't wait! This will be the first baby in our circle of friends... for sure that baby boy will be very very very spoiled!

View from the Great Wall

2010-07-04T08:58:00.000+08:00

taken at the Great Wall of China

I finally had my rolls of film developed and I got them yesterday! Woot woot! It was kinda cloudy during my trip there so some of the shots from my Vivitar came out pretty dark, which I expected but others came out awesome! Time for some lomo, luvin'!

Last May, I was able to cross off "walk along the Great Wall of China" from my bucket list. It was an amaaaazing experience! We climbed up a gazillion steps and we took a lot of breaks in between. I took this photo at the point we decided that was as high as we would go. My dad said if we didn't start going down, we might be late for the tour (or maybe we were all just making excuses to stop going up hehe). I can only imagine what it was like for the Chinese who would be on the look out at night during winter! It must have been freezing!!! And it doesn't help that you have to go down all those steps after your shift was over. But I really suggest that you go see the Great Wall!

Camouflage

2010-07-02T09:34:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

I'm not sure why the bark of the tree ended up looking like this but it reminds me of those camouflage prints! Anyone know why the bark looks like this?

On other very girly news, Forever 21 is opening in the Philippines for the first time today! The first 250 customers to line up in front of their store will immediately get a P200 ($5) discount card. I decided not to go today because chaos is not conducive to shopping! I'll probably pass by next week when there aren't as many people. I've seen a lot of teaser photos and the store is massive!! I can't wait to check it out :)

Look Up!

2010-07-01T09:36:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

When in Beijing, don't forget to look up. Even the ceilings are full of art!

Smiling Lion

2010-06-29T10:24:00.000+08:00

taken at the Drum Tower in Beijing, China

This smiling lion is just too cute. I felt like he was telling me to enjoy my vacation. ;p

On The Wall

2010-06-27T12:54:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

Love these little artworks that were on the walls in this area in Beijing (sorry I forgot the name!). Just makes everything more interesting.

Sa Whut??

2010-06-25T09:52:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

Now can someone tell me what this sign is really trying to say? :D

Knick Knacks and Whatnot

2010-06-24T09:23:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

I'm such a sucker for useless souvenires. One of my favorite things to do when I travel is to check out the souvenire stores. My family buys refrigerator magnets from all the countries and cities we visit then when we get home, we stick them on our refrigerator. So now, its covered with memories of all our family trips! Me on the other hand, I collect shot glasses and those are displayed on my bookshelf in my room. What do you collect?

Only in China

2010-06-23T09:40:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

This is one mode of transpo that I'm pretty sure can only be seen in China! Amidst all the rickshaws in this part of town, I saw this vehicle like a little golf cart but check out the wooden details! That's what really caught my eye. It's like a moving piece of furniture.

Art and Color

2010-06-22T22:49:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

Sorry I've been MIA for awhile. I needed sometime transferring my stuff and setting up my new laptop! Got myself a MacBook Pro ;p yey! And I'm LOVING IT.

Things have been pretty busy for me recently with the 3 businesses I'm taking care of. Not that I'm complaining or anything but I was a bit worried that I would have too much idle time on my hands once I left my old job. Now, I keep myself busy but I get to schedule everything. I can adjust deadlines and manage my time much better. I like that I am able to make my own decisions on things instead of forever asking my boss.

The picture above was taken in a little house in Beijing. I love how the art is also used for decor on the table. The colors are so striking and beautiful it just brightens up the table area. It could be a great idea that you can apply in your house!

100th post!

2010-05-29T13:19:00.000+08:00

taken during the Baila! photoshoot

This is my 100th post! I decided to post a picture of me for this milestone, even if it wasn't me who took the shot. This was taken during the photoshoot we had last week for our recital programme. Jump shots are so much fun and it's not easy to take a nice one so I just had to share this! I'm looking forward to many more posts and pictures to share with everyone. Yey to blogging!

White Blooms

2010-05-27T10:45:00.000+08:00

taken at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China

I wish we had more flowering trees in the Philippines!

Chinese Carvings

2010-05-26T11:11:00.000+08:00

taken at the Lama Temple in Beijing, China

More amazing carvings found in China. All temples have these in the center stairway leading up to the temples.

bright colors

2010-05-23T20:56:00.000+08:00

taken at Beijing, China

I love seeing flowers all abloom. Brightly colored flowers never fail to make my day. :) Aren't these ones lovely?

Skywatch Friday is in China

2010-05-14T09:17:00.000+08:00

taken at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China

You have to hand it to China... they're a super power in the world and yet they have been able to preserve their culture. Even if there are modern structures and buildings, they have maintained so many beautiful structures from years before. Chinese architecture is beautiful and intricate! It's amazing how they are able to maintain all this!

For more beautiful skies, click here!

say what?

2010-05-12T12:07:00.000+08:00

taken at the Confucius Temple in Beijing, China

"no phone calls during thunderstorm please" is it just me or is this warning kinda weird??

Ni Hao!

2010-05-11T09:59:00.000+08:00

taken at the Lama Temple, Beijing, China

Ni hao! From May 2-7, my family was in Beijing for our annual family vacation. Our past 2 vacations were in Europe so visiting Asia was a welcome change for us. China is so full of culture and beautiful places, this is definitely a city you should visit! Expect in the coming days that I'll be posting photos from our trip. I feel bad that I have been neglecting my blog and I promise to be more consistent from now on!

But on to news at home, it was our elections yesterday and I'm proud to say that I voted. Thank God that so far, things have been peaceful.

Sugar For Your Tea?

2010-04-24T12:17:00.000+08:00

taken at Antonio's Tagaytay

Tap It

2010-04-21T13:03:00.000+08:00

taken at Baila Studio

Tap dance is one of the types of dances I haven't tried. I watched one of the tap dance classes we have and it seems pretty simple but its NOT! So kudos to all the tap dancers out there!

Little Statues

2010-04-15T08:40:00.000+08:00

taken at Antonio's Tagaytay

During our trip to Italy last year, churches were big and extravagant, filled with paintings, mosaics and giant statues covered in gold. Compared to those big statues, I have to admit, I like these simple wooden ones better. I saw these in a restaurant in Tagaytay called Antonio's, a pricey but really delicious restaurant. We went there back in February to celebrate my brother's last day in college. Steak was soooooo good!! Yum. Now I'm craving for it!

My World Likes To Dance

2010-04-13T10:07:00.000+08:00

taken at Baila Dance Studio

Remember I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that I resigned to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams? Well one of the businesses I have now is a dance studio. I am a partner of Baila Dance Studio which has been running for 7 years but I only got on board 2 years ago. Dancing is one of my passions (other than photography and traveling) and I am so glad I finally have time to dance again. One of our biggest challenges is to increase the number of our student base. Hopefully, now that I can focus more time to it, we will be able to do so this year. We have summer workshops ongoing and I can't wait for our recital in June!

For more corners of the world, click here.

Skywatch Friday is at the port

2010-04-09T20:34:00.000+08:00

taken at the Punta Fuego marina

My family spent Holy Week at our beach house with our relatives and we decided to rent a boat for an hour and take a ride around the peninsula and the nearby beaches. I took this picture down by the marina while we were waiting for the boat to arrive.

I always love family time at the beach. It's great to just relax and leave all the worries back in the city. Summer is half over and I definitely need more beach trips!

For more skies, click here!

Even Accidents Can Be Beautiful

2010-04-07T08:32:00.000+08:00

taken at Ateneo

One of the things I love about photography is that you don't always have to take a perfect picture to come out with something beautiful. During my brother's grad, there were blue and white lights hanging from the trees and it was beautiful. I started playing around with the shutter speed and this photo was one of the shots I got. It's so psychedelic and it looks like it's raining in blue and white.

My Brother, The Graduate

2010-04-06T10:33:00.000+08:00

taken at my brother's grad

Congrats to my one and only favorite brother in the whole wide universe! He graduated with honors and we couldn't be prouder.

Go and conquer the world now, little bro.

My World is starting a new chapter

2010-03-30T16:11:00.000+08:00

taken at my office desk

Today is my 2nd to the last day of work. I have to admit it truly is bittersweet. I'm leaving advertising to pursue my goals of being an entrepreneur. This is a start of a new and exciting chapter in my life but I can't help but feel sad to leave all of my wonderful officemates. I've been here for a total of 3 and a half years... it's time to move on to new things.

I'm sending this picture to my officemates tomorrow before I turn off my computer for the last time. I'm really bad at good byes so I'd rather say "see you later." I know I'll see these awesome people again, so hopefully the tears will stay away!

But on another note... life, here I come!

For more awesome corners of the world, click here!

What Time Is It?

2010-03-27T14:08:00.000+08:00

taken in Sienna, Italy

Really like the face of this clock. :)

My World Had Snail Mail

2010-03-23T23:19:00.000+08:00

taken at my house using the webcam

I know this isn't the greatest picture in the world but I just had to share this... Today I got a postcard from my good friend who just moved back to Switzerland last month. She promised she was going to send us a postcard and she really did! I was so excited to receive an actual postcard in the mail, it made me realize just how awesome snail mail can still be. This postcard was a labor of love and this made it even more special than just typing and pressing the send button.

When was the last time you got awesome snail mail?

For more corners of the worls, click here!

Skywatch Friday is another Fuego sunset

2010-03-19T23:08:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego

I adore Punta Fuego sunsets so I'm sharing with you yet another one from 2 weeks ago. If you notice, the sun's position is moving from the one during New Year's.

For more skies, click here.

Time To Snorkel

2010-03-18T23:55:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego

This is from my second black and white roll of film. I love snorkeling at the beach by our house. There are lots of fish over there and it really is so beautiful in the morning. I really enjoy swimming at the beach because for some reason, it makes me feel so free. When I was younger, I would pretend that I was Ariel from Little Mermaid about to go on some adventure under the sea. Floating around out there makes me feel so calm and peaceful. It's the best way to spend a weekend away from the city.

Swimming, anyone?

Sketches

2010-03-17T16:15:00.000+08:00

taken at our house on Valentine's Day

Remember my talented cousin? Caught her doing her thing again. Look at the details on that drawing! She's really awesome. You should see the finished colored version!

My World Tuesday Was During Valentine's Day

2010-03-16T17:33:00.000+08:00

taken at home, on Valentine's Day

Back on V-day, my mom decided to have a small family dinner with my relatives at home. My mom loves to entertain at home and always puts a lot of thought in to the table settings and decor. No party is complete without flowers! They just make everything prettier. So true to the holiday, our centerpieces were roses.

Everything looks so fancy right? Guess what our dinner was... pizza and fried chicken! Hehehe... It was a last minute plan so delivery was the way to go!

Wall Of Memories

2010-03-14T22:14:00.000+08:00

taken at Antonio's, Tagaytay

I want my wall to be like this - full of beautiful memories, framed and proudly displayed in all it's glory.

Skywatch Friday At Breakfast

2010-03-12T14:59:00.000+08:00

taken at Punta Fuego, Batangas

Stolen moment of my parents having breakfast at out house in Batangas. They've been together for 27 years and they're still very happy and in love. I hope that 27 years from now, I will also be in a loving relationship, just like theirs. :)

For more skies, click here.

Art On The Street

2010-03-10T13:26:00.000+08:00

taken at the Piazza Di Spagnia, Rome, Italy

One thing I found so charming in Italy were all the street vendors. My favorite thing that they were selling were all the paintings. They were beautiful! I regret not buying any, even the little paintings.

More Paris Memories

2010-03-08T14:46:00.000+08:00

taken in Paris, France, on top of the Arc De Triomphe

I want to go back to Paris. I'm sure there's so much more to explore there. I want to get lost and take tons of pictures and discover the city.

I'd rather be there...

2010-03-05T21:16:00.000+08:00

taken at Monet's garden, France

I'm currently stuck in the office on a Friday night at 9:15pm waiting for some materials I need to send to Client today. Since this is no fun way to spend the start of the weekend, i'm going to distract myself with old pictures of our France trip back in 2006. This is a shot I took in Monet's garden. Isn't it absolutely beautiful? It is so picturesque, it's hard to believe this isn't a postcard.