Photoblog - Day 218 Nov 13, 2010

Our Christmas Tree!

Today, I decided to check our Christmas lights - a move I planned dot do since last weekend, but with other things happening it got pushed back. Lucky me, there was nothing in the plate for today - so I could concentrate on the lights and the tree. When Barbie came down and saw me doing the lights and tree, she started playing Christmas songs on the PC connecting it to the entertainment system speakers, thus adding volume - to get me in the spirit of things... inspire me to continue working on what I was doing. Well it worked!

Normally, the tree would take a few days to finish, but today I worked on it continuously for almost five hours (only breaking for lunch) and when I was done, Barbie - as has been our practice, steps in to place the decors. Thus has been our collaborative effort every year - and we did not see any reason to change the practice.

I believe the result speaks for itself (hint: I can be more breathtaking if seen live). So yeah... I'm proud of our tree.

Photoblog - Day 217 Nov 12, 2010

Creative side to Leadership Trainings:

This is an activity I ask my participants to do at the end of their training (and if I had control over the course modules, I'd insist on this being a standard), namely asking them to pretend they're editors of a paper - they can choose their paper to be a 'broadsheet' i.e. a serious paper, or a tabloid - meaning sensationally gossip worthy; or they can decide to make a magazine... but the idea of the exercise, regardless of paper type, is to let them express their creative sides by coming up with the page layout of their front covers (or headlines) representing the lessons learned in the workshop/training.

This 'paper' in particular was a favorite of mine (and others who've seen it) from the last batch. It's filled with lessons discussed plus some digs at popular personalities (at least, from the organization's perspective) while putting a very 'pinoy' spin to the tabloid; keeping true to what tabloids do - namely sensationalize. So if there are digs at some personalities or blind items... well, what do you expect with tabloids?

But it's not just the content that is cleverly striking (and fictitious, I might add), as you can no doubt see... even the layout looks almost printing press worthy, not to mention, aligned with the L4 layout (but to see it, you must realize which quadrant represents what style).

Definitely an inspiring work of creativity. One I felt strong enough to take a picture of and preserve in this photoblog. Heck I wanted to bring home the paper, which was just discarded after the training.

Photoblog - Day 216 Nov 11, 2010

Leadership Game:

This picture shows my participants concentrating on one the Leader's Window's game where they need to internalize the ability to identify which leadership style fits what case best.

I never grow tired of facilitating Leader's Window. It's got a lot of 'Aha' moments and I appreciate seeing these moments happen from my perspective because it means I was able to impart the essential ideas of the training to them (my participants, that is).

Photoblog - Day 215, Nov 10, 2010

Plants vs. Zombies anyone?

have you played the game? It can be a bit addicting... meaning it can be a great and enjoyable time-stealer. The game is compact and simple... the idea ridiculous - but it still is seemingly played by a lot of people (at least a whole lot more than many will admit to) - and anyone who's played the game can definitely identify the creatures I have beside me.

As for these creatures... the picture sort of shows them in the vein as muppets - at least, that's how this picture comes across to me when I had finished fixing and uploading it in Facebook. Where exactly did these plants come from? You'd be surprised - they're formed from paper (or cardboard) and were (seemingly) expertly crafted by team members of an I.T. project - then again, who'd be in a better position to know these critters, right?

Apparently, these were remnants of a Halloween display in the project's cubicles, and after said Halloween celebration, it looked like the members (who made all these) had separation anxiety with their creations. I liked them so much that I decided borrow just three of them and have my picture taken with them. Too bad, some of the others were already broken or disassembled - would have been nice ot have a picture of the entire lineup (with a few zombies tossed in).

Oh well... at least, I got to these three for my photo ops. I used a timer for this... after all, it might look awkward to ask someone to take the shot for me - with me, specially since this was a work environment, so anything unofficial, I just do myself whenever possible.

Photoblog - Day 214, Nov 09, 2010

Comics for the Week:

In contrast to the last time I bought comics (where I ended up getting almost a month's worth of issues in one visit - and a costly visit it became at that), this week's pull was relatively light with just five(5) issues. Of these issues, I take special interest in... well, the Captain America limited series because it is written by Roger Stern, and this is the first time he's writing Bucky as Cap. Another issue catching my fancy is the last issue of the Thanos Imperative... and boy, what an ending it had. The rest... well. let's just say they're nice to have.

As for the lesser numbers, I wouldn't worry too much - guess it simply means that shipping has fouled up (putting it in diplomatic terms) and could not untangle it's situations.

Photoblog - Day 213, Nov 08, 2010

Life-like Tips:

I'm currently reading (or more like perusing) a new digital photo reference book that I happen to find in Fully Booked yesterday. Well, technically this will be my fifth digicam book, but I thought it worth getting since the author is Life Magazine's photographer himself - Joe McNally.

It may have been a bit pricey (a little over the thousand mark) but I believe that the lessons he shares within the pages will be worth the purchase as his tips and anecdotal sharing will greatly help me improve my digital photography skills. The book is naturally filled with wonderful pictures, and I may even be tempted to say that even without the narratives, the pictures themselves would be worth the cover price. You see, by observing how the photo was composed, I still learn a thing or two about how to strive for taking great pictures.

The book isn't too heavy, as it isn't hardbound - which in itself is both a pro and con - pro because it won't be a burden to bring around... con because it means it's not too sturdy, and will need some guarded care to ensure it's long (not just library shelf) life, after all... I intend to refer to this a lot.

Photoblog - Day 212, Nov 07, 2010

Roaming around Rockwell:

Today was a different day for us. With Barbie in Guam, I wanted to have a not so mundane Sunday - I mean, I could have stayed home and watched some DVDs or something similar, but I wanted to go out. More importantly, I wanted to spend some time out while this Sunday was not yet half through.

Of course we had to do some things - like Bryce and I getting a haircut. Plus, I also had to consider groceries replenishment; and naturally, going to mass. Aside from that - anything was possible - almost spontaneous in fact.

So what else did we do?

Well for starters; we had lunch at Rockwell's basement - ending up at Kentucky Fried Chicken; then we tried to peep into a bazaar called 'Pinoy Pride', but with entrance at Php100 each (and there were 3 of us), we thought it not a good idea to fork out the money with no guarantee we'd like to buy more stuff inside. Too bad for them.

We did not leave empty handed though, as both Bryce and Bernice got purple bonnets, while I managed to take a picture of the mall's tall outdoor Christmas tree - which is shown here with the kids. To emphasize the tree's height, take note o fthe people sitting at a bench by the tree's base - and take note, the tree also has a star (not in picture) so it's over-all height is higher than the picture could emphasize.

After this we bought tickets for Megamind, and attended mass (then the movie) and culminated our Rockwell experience by doing the groceries.

Yup, I'd say this day was far from boring.

Photoblog - Day 211, Nov 06, 2010

November's Bacardi Night:

Since I missed the last time this happened, I was determined to make sure I attended this particular Bacardi Night; after all, it has been months since I've seen or talked to some of these friends of mine.

As tradition goes, we'd normally try to have a get together to catch up with what's been happening with each other, maybe relive some fond memories, talk about absent colleagues (don't worry people - we were relatively gentle), and share some food and drinks - in this case, the usual Bacardi Mojitos mixture that Jingo and I have somehow concoct as our group's own version - one we call the Manila Mojitos.

As Bacardi nights would go - this one was a successful one. No one was too bored or too late - and everyone was able to follow the evening's conversations - and boy, did we talk about a lot of things.

What's new about this particular night? A lot actually - from Gina's Chocolate Fondue, to Melody's Rum Cake. It was equally a gastronomic delight - but hey, this only happens at least once a quarter (at most, once a month... though rarely has this happened).

We even ended a bit early - if you can call 1:00am, early, but I'd still say that everyone was satisfied with the evening. We even started talking about our next Christmas edition Bacardi Night, as we realized that the exchange gift we did was almost a year ago. How about that?

Here's to more Bacardi Nights with friends.

Photoblog - Day 210, Nov 05, 2010

Mirrored Tiles:

This is a post in Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf at the Rockwell Mall. I had the occasion to be here and when I saw the near mirror-like tiles, I thought how mirror-ball like it was, and how it would definitely shine light back... even if it were in a myriad pieces (like the mirror ball). So I experimented with it by taking a shot.

The result was rather ordinary - nothing spectacular, since the light reflections was not showing in the picture. So this time, I tried a different track... I used my camera's flash this time and this is what came up.

I'd say this was a much better (livelier) picture representing how the flash's light reflected through the many shiny surfaces, thus making the surface rather dark - but lo and behold, the light did not reflect against the tiles' bonding (which is a non-reflective surface). This resulted in the tiles looking rather visible by their outline, even if they themselves did not shine - which was because I took the picture at an angle to prevent exactly that. End result... a more unique picture.

Guess I can chalk this up to a picture of patterns - in this instance, square patterns.

Photoblog - Day 209, Nov 04, 2010

Confirmation:

Today, Bernice got her confirmation. This was a long anticipated day - not because it was a very special time for Bernice (it was, of course), but that it was one activity long prepared for by her school - from a confirmation seminar to prepare the parent(s) by educating them about the sacrament, and hopefully giving them the right foundation for a catholic life (in case they missed the meaning of the ceremony).

I could give more details about the confirmation, but I guess the main difference between this one and the one with Bryce was that I had my trusty DSLR this time. So I decided to act the photographer and take Bernice's picture as she went through the ceremony. I also made it a point to take a few picture od her with her 'ninang' Bernadette.

This particular picture captures both - the important aspect of Confirmation, and having Bernadette in the picture as well - not to mention the Cardinal too. I als made it a point to have this type of picture taken because I already have a mirror-image of this pose... with Bryce and his 'ninong' Dict. Naturally, I plan to put these two pictures side-by-side.

Photoblog - Day 208, Nov 03, 2010

Piano player:

I always wanted to get a picture of a piano - possibly with a player. WHy you may ask? I just liked the symmetry and lines (specially inside the piano) that one can play around with as far a taking pictures are concerned.

That said, when Barbie and I went to Rockwell's mall, I knew there was a piano there, and it was being played regularly - so I considered the possibility and hoped I could get a decent shot in.

Well this one was taken (obviously) from above - the floor above the piano to be exact, and what was a simple shot (just set, point, shoot and hope there was no need for 'second-try's) and I just considered myself lucky to have the shot. I was even not too happy with the angle so I decided to take another shot - this time form the piano's side (an equally good picture too), so what made me decide to go with this shot for my photoblog?

Simple... yet I guess, minimalist in such a way that it's not so obvious - but it can be a focal counterpoint to the seeming stillness fo the picture. I refer to the right hand being a bit blurry (signifying movement) which is equally matched by a cropped figures walking past the piano player. Guess this is a sample of a picture looking better the second time around, huh?

Photoblog - Day 207, Nov 02, 2010

Soul of Coffee:

This picture was taken by Barbie and the backdrop is actually the Bo's Coffee wall in Greenhills. It's entire caption reads "Espresso, the soul of coffee" When Barbie took the picture, however, the top portion was cropped. Still, the effect gave a more surreal look.

I mean, what is the soul of coffee? Not meaning to go all Zen here, but it's the aroma of the coffee that gives it it's soul... after all, when I was a non-coffee drinker (almost a decade in the past), I was drawn to the coffee's smell - it was just fantastic to smell some coffee brewing in the background, and in more than one time, I wondered if I was missing out on something special.

Well, nowadays I'm a regular enough drinker to know the difference between brewed and instant sans taste; and I regularly purchase not just the Barista created cup, but the grounded coffee as well (for home brewing purposes). Though I may not consider myself a coffee expert yet, I have acquired the taste for it. hence my going to places like Starbucks, Seattle's Best, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and the likes.

Of course, there will be times I don't feel like taking coffee - in which case I revert to taking tea.

It just hit me... it is All Soul's Day! How about that for coincidence?

Photoblog - Day 206, Nov 01, 2010

Piazza Lunch:

Today was probably the only time everyone was free - it being a holiday and all, so we scheduled to have our get together lunch with the Dubai folks, before their scheduled leave/vacation ends. Most of them are returning to the Middle East next Saturday, and as for the rest of us... work will once again intrude into our get-togethers. I also imagine them being likewise busy having to consider last minute shopping for things they may be needing to bring back there.

Honestly, it was good of the to visit - and with their nearly a month's stay, we've been able to have out-of-town trips, drinking sessions and gastronomic delights. Though once they return, I imagine it shall be back to a saner diet for me as well... at least, until Christmas.

So yeah... today's lunch was great and everyone had a wonderful time. This is them as they arrived at the Piazza. Barbie and the kids were already at Dencio's (2nd floor) ordering ahead of their arrival. Meanwhile, I was playing around with my mono-pod (and later in the restaurant, my tripod). That was what they probably saw me doing, as they arrived.

Why the mono-pod? I was experimenting with panoramic takes via photo stitching. Apparently, my first try was a mixed success... why so? I got to stitch two pictures - but the people in the middle; where the stitch happened, were out of synch. Well... at least I learned something. Will try again some time soon.

Photoblog - Day 205, Oct 31, 2010

Amici dinner:

Sunday was a quiet time for us - after all, we were still resting from the previous evening's drinking session, and though the kids were spared the alcohol, they had to play baby sitters to three of their younger cousins, so I can imagine that the evening wasn't as restful for them either.

We woke up early, and had it not been for the obligation (or practice) to attend Mass on Sundays, we'd probably just stay home. Then again, if we did that, we wouldn't have enjoyed our dinner at Amici.

Nothing spectacular, we just had two servings of seafood pasta and two pizzas - one four cheese, and the other a new offering... garlic and spinach (a vegan's delight too - if they wanted to skip the four cheese).

This picture shows Barbie and Bernice waiting for our orders to come. Apparently, there were a few changes to the restaurant - and only time will tell if those changes work. Still, maybe due ot the staff getting used to said changes, service was a bit rough on the edges (they for got to serve us our iced tea until we reminded them).

Oh well... it was a healthy and filling dinner to cap a restful day.

Photoblog - Day 204, Oct 30, 2010

Bacardi Night for the Buenaobras:

Yes it's definitely a Bacardi Night that Barbie and I planned for her brothers and sisters. Considering that most of them just came back for a one month vacation before returning to Dubai, and likewise considering that the next time they will be together would probably be after two years; and lastly... considering that it;w the star of a long weekend (though it should have been longer) - well, let's just say that a drinking session was long overdue at home with the Buenaobra siblings.

As usual, I got to let them taste Mojitos, Margaritas and BJs - and they all loved it enough to get a bit tipsy... but worry not, we made sure they were okay enough to travel home early morning. Thanks to some Starbucks coffee that I bought and Barbie brewed.

Photoblog - Day 203, Oct 29, 2010

Batty:

These little bats are real cute halloween decors, and I saw them in (of all places) a bank where I went to cash a check - enroute to depositing some money into my bank account. I guess I did not expect such a conservative business to get into the spirit of things and really pepper the office with these type of decors.

Still, it was a pleasant surprise, and when I saw these batty bats - well, I just had to ask permission ot take their pictures. Halloween being a few days away... I guess it's good to get into the spirit of the day - and the practice.

So happy halloween folks!

Photoblog - Day 202, Oct 28, 2010

White Cup:

This is obviously a Starbucks cup (or mug, if you want to be precise about it), and what is so significant about the mug this day? Simple, it's the start of my graveyard shift training that's gonna last until tomorrow (two days total)... so I'm definitely going to need my uppers - legal of course, and in this case - Starbucks coffee. naturally.

My training this evening, though will be Achieving Meeting Results - a course I've been very familiar with - ans one that is relatively easy for me to conduct (in fact I just conducted one last week - an afternoon to evening session). So yeah... it's been a while since I've had a graveyard shift, so we'll see how awake I can stay.

As for this shot... well, the over-all white cup with white design was, I felt, a challenge to get just right. I'd like to think I did get it right. I had to rely on bright sunlight form outside for this one though. I don't think it would have had the same effect had this been taken with less brightness and less a play with shadows.

Photoblog - Day 201, Oct 27, 2010

My other Loach:

This is a Kuhli Loach, one of two I have in my smaller fish tank (they were actually three - but I can't seem to see the other one, even after I cleaned the tank), and I guess they were both happy with their cleaned environment that they were actively swimming around the tank.

Now since I had some difficulty capturing them for pictures, I would either just get them in a far shot and do a post shot zoom-in, or just bide my time until I saw them not doing much movement. Well today was the latter... sort of.

I did say I caught them moving around a lot and they were likewise sort of playing with the internal pump. Moving in front of the pumped water and swimming against the current. Well that kind of activity will eventually make them tired, so I watched and waited... then, when one of them would rest in the gravel, I could take my shot. I actually missed catching them both in the frame by just a few seconds... but this one is cool enough.

Why my other loach, you might ask... well, I did feature my clown loaches before, right? If you want to learn more about these fishes, there's a site I could point you to.

Loaches

Read up on them, and who knows? Maybe this'll convince you to try them out as pets.

Photoblog - Day 200, Oct 26, 2010

Cold Room:

This is me in a jacket while reading a book at the back of the training room - something I'm able to do because it was my partner's turn to talk. Said partner for this day being Tess, who saw me; liked what she saw - and said she just had to take my picture, so I could add it to my photoblog.

As for me, yes the jacket is necessary. You see, where I'm sitting, I find myself in a near direct path of an industrial airconditioner's cold blast, and even if we lower the temperature a bit, it still is cold for the person in the aircon's path. In actuality, I'm trying to cover my head more than my body, more so since I'm still nursing a cough. The book I'm so engrossed with? "The Last Templar", a book I just started reading this day.

So there you have it... another picture of me this October (unintentionally done), because Tess saw a memory worth preserving - and when I saw her take of me, I thouhgt so too.

Photoblog - Day 199, Oct 25, 2010

Mohawk:

I remember first seeing people sporting the mohawks in relatively modern times (the '80's if you must know) from Mt.T - first as a formidable opponent to Rocky, and later as a comedic tough guy in the A-Team (the TV series - not the movie that has recently been shown). Naturally, this got a handful of people copying the style of Mr. T. - but more often enough it was to convince them (and others) that they were as tough as their idol.

Later the 'hawk' look was somehow revived as part of the punk rock / new wave stage in the music industry's life - and even then, this was seemingly reserved for the more erratic (some would even say wildly behaving) bands. After all, aside from the fact that they were mohawked - they were likewise gelled to look like spikes, so it was understandable that the not too many (with exception to the more eccentric followers) started sporting that style of 'hawk'.

Fast forward to the 2010s and we have a resurgence of sorts for the 'hawk' - thanks to another TV character in the series Glee. It's a more conservative 'hawk' than that of the punk rock era... and the character is more mainstream high school than Mr. T.

Guess this explains why some parents are having a ball having their kids look that way these days... and depending on how the 'hawk' goes in a decade or two, I wonder how this kid will react to seeing pictures of himself with the 'hawk'. It could go either way, of course... he could be proud of being bold enough at a young age to sport it, or he could probably keep all early pictures of himself from this particular time period.

Anyway, this shot was just on impulse - saw the kid; opened the camera and clicked. After all, as far as memories to remind me of where I was goes - this was as good as any. To preserve the kid's identity, I did not bother getting a face shot. After all, the back of his head says it as clearly.

Good luck in your future, kid.

Photoblog - Day 199, Oct 25, 2010

Ants:

Last time I tried getting these critters, I ended up with a vague orange shape on green mangoes - apparently, I still needed to learn how to better focus my camera's lens to catch these ants.

Well, as you can see, I've improved by some leaps and bounds when it comes to capturing these critters - and I couldn't be happier too. After all, being able to catch the ant clearly (and this is not yet using any zoom lens) means I'm definitely getting the hang of using my camera's features. If you look closely, you can even see the ant's eye.

Nat. Geo., here I come!

Photoblog - Day 198, Oct 24, 2010

Cuenca Visit with 'Dubai' folks:

I normally try to visit my mom and sister in Cuenca at least once a quarter. Recently, though, this has not been the case. For example, I was supposed to go last August to celebrate the birthdays of Li, Bing and Patty in one go - wasn't able to make it due to a busy schedule. Darned if I would pass up this opportunity though.

Cuenca trips are well remembered by my 'Dubai' in-laws because of the gastronomic dishes we serve them there - and most of them being of generous and extra large serving. This time out, it seems the classic grilled Liempo was outdone by the humble smoked fish... something I guess they've really missed eating.

That said, we all ate more than enough to last us beyond dinner - and such a filling situation gave everyone else an excuse to walk around. Me? I finished reading a book while awaiting the famous Batangas Barako Coffee to be served.

My next trip will most likely be in the Christmas season... not sure if I can make a trip for Mom's birthday - but I'll see. Unfortunately, the 'Dubai' folks will be long gone to enjoy either or of these possible trips - having to go back to where they're working. But that's okay... I'm sure they have lots to talk about - with pictures to share too.

Photoblog - Day 197, Oct 23, 2010

Spa time!

This was a scheduled day at the Spa specifically for Barbie's Dubai-working relatives, and a few others. In this Photo, that would be Brian and Joji, while Ben and I... well, we're the 'few others', at least in the gentlemen side. This is them in robes after the massage (hence the uncombed hairs).

As I accompanied them, Barbie was enjoying a similar experience with her siblings Bea and Dette, with sister-in-law Lhynn. After this much needed relaxation (as mentioned by Joji and Brian to me), we had a late dinner at Eastwood, and that in itself was a nice experience... definitely better than the aborted plan to go to the Piazza in McKinley. After all, from all indications, the architecture and clock tower are the same - with exception that while Eastwood is filled with lots of places to hang out in, the Piazza looks near empty after you consider dinner.

Photoblog - Day 196, Oct 22, 2010

Red Tomatoes 2010:

This is a free concert sponsored by my favorite FM radio station; 99.5 RT - in fact, I've been an avid RT listener since... well, since college actually. Though the station went on a near 2 decade hiatus (or was it longer than 2 decades?). Anyway, they're back with a vengeance, and I get to listen to them in the morning and evening, specifically when I'm driving to or from work.

This was how I learned of their concert, and coincidence as it is... You might even say that the coincidence became stronger when I learned that a previously planned family outing was cancelled, leaving my Saturday evening open. I was in McKinley that day, conducting my last day for PM Estimating. That said, it was a simple matter of waiting for the appointed start time.

Hence I was able to get some pics of the bands playing - well, just two of them actually... Sinosikat (in the picture) and Sandwich. In between I saw a few RT jocks too. But what got me going was of course a chance to try taking really great pics of the bands.

Photoblog - Day 195, Oct 21, 2010

Great pumpkin time!

Yes, it's close to Halloween! Though we don't really celebrate it here that much in the past, it's commercial possibilities have seemingly caught on in the malls - then again, it's no real surprise, since it's the more affluent subdivisions and neighborhoods that have traditionally practiced this... I guess, wanting to make sure they have a semblance of the celebration here as in the U.S.

Still, I don't begrudge the commercial practice - after all, it's and opportunity for kids to enjoy one night of trick or treats (specially the treats) and is likewise a reason for dining places - like the coffee shop to spruce up their locale with decors of webs, witches and whatnots. In this case, the jack-o-lantern inspired decors are an attractive attention-getter. It obviously caught mine enough to take it's picture.

Ah... to be a child again, and get to enjoy trick or treats... wouldn't that be nice?

Photoblog - Day 194, Oct 20, 2010

Yummm!

By themselves, each food item is a very tasty dessert - the white items are Macapuno (preserved, sweetened coconut meat), while the yellowish item with a near burned caramel top is Leche Flan (sweetened milk pudding?). Both are well known in the Philippines, and both can be overwhelmingly sweet at times.

Fortunately, these two are not - even when placed side-by-side. Why so? For starters, these two were home made (not my home, though) and I was just lucky to be a recipient of such wonderful cooking. Believe me, these two are temptations to anyone with a sweet tooth; myself included, but I can honestly say that I have been winning the EQ war with this one - the bad part? Others at home are not so controlling, so unless I decide to eat these sooner (like this evening) I may very well end up not being able to taste them.

So as you can see, I took matters into hand last night as barbie was getting herself some. At least, I got to taste this combination... now if I cna only find some Ube (taro-flavored) ice cream...

Photoblog - Day 193, Oct 19, 2010

Current Book I'm Reading.

This is Boyd Morrison's The Ark - an okay read. Guess it's true that unlike Cebu where I had nothing to distract me with after work (and where I was able to finish reading two paperback in the span of one every two days), my reading once again, becomes slower... even if they happen to be thrillers. Guess it's because my attention is demanded (or distracted) by so many other things. Hence I bring the book wherever I go (even to trainings), so when I find those ever elusive free moments, I go through a chapter or two.

As for this novel, the premise (so far) is sound - and so is the science, though I've yet to see how he integrates Noah's ark into the story aside from it being just a background plot. Hope the fact that Boyd happened to be a Jeopardy champion translates into a great story teller... or at least, god enough to enjoy until the next book.

Photoblog - Day 192, Oct 18, 2010

Signs of Christmas...

It's definitely getting to be that time of the year. Although we may see some malls starting to place display corners or show windows with Christmas, it's not yet full blast, as some stores realize that before they should go all out Christmassy, they should at least try to milk some cash form the public with Halloween.

Still, what some people try to deny, nature so often starts reminding us by way of having such plants bloom. This is a poinsettia - otherwise referred to some as the Christmas plant due to it's reddening leaves thus giving it the traditional Christmas colors of Red and Green. It happens to be a favorite plant to bring out the Christmas look, and apparently, they are already starting to show up in gardens and flower shops.

Further alluding to it's being a Christmas plant is the fact that the leaves only seeming turn red this time of the year - yup... definitely in time for Christmas. So yeah... even if it's still early early and Halloween is around the corner (not to mention All Saint's and All Soul's days and a near-ignored Barangay Election), it's nice to see these plants blooming - and though we may suspect shop owners' intentions for jumping into the Christmas celebration too early, how can we likewise think such of Nature and her impeccable internal clock?

Photoblog - Day 191, Oct 17, 2010

Starbucks with a nice view.

If Bernice was the reason for our having to wake up early yesterday, today it was Bryce... particularly his entrance exam in De La Salle University. He had to be there by 7AM, and naturally, Barbie and I saw him off (with the understanding that we'd fetch him after he had lunch with his friends who also took the exam that day.

Naturally, once we had dropped Bryce off for his exam, the obvious question was how would we now kill time... and where? A Starbucks was the obvious choice, and though I knew of one near D.L.S.U., I had concerns about parking.

It was then that I remembered that there was a Starbucks at the area near the Cultural Arts Theater... the one with many eating spots. I thought that there would definitely be more than enough parking... and it was not too far from La Salle as well.

What I did not expect was that the Starbucks had a nice view and some great entertainment factor (by way of watching many Sunday morning enthusiasts gyrating to the beat of some dance songs while obviously following the lead of an aerobics instructor). one grandmother, in particular showed how versatile and soft her body was - even if she was at the portly side. Amazing... and yeah, entertaining.

But the clincher for this Starbucks was the view - if I had seen this picture and not known of it's location, I would not think it was just the marina (notice the yachts?) in Manila Bay... I'd think that this was probably one of Barbie's out of the country trip.

Photoblog - Day 190, Oct 16, 2010

Bernice's Confirmation Seminar:

This is what made Barbie and I wake up early on a Saturday when we normally would have wanted to sleep longer. Since Bernice will be having her confirmation this coming November, the school, naturally, wanted to make sure their students' parents were well aware of the Christian (specifically, the Catholic) values - sooo.... we got dressed in a more smart casual manner - as opposed to my more relaxed shirt and shorts weekend get-up, and off we went to O.B. Montessori, with Bernice in tow.

I dropped them off so they did not have to walk too far from the parking with the understanding that I would pass by Starbucks as well to get Barbie her much needed coffee.

Turns out they (the school) only needed - and allowed one parent per child - a fact Bernice forgot to mention, and I sudden felt I was dressed with no place to go *sigh*. So I got Barbie's coffee - brought it to her then as I was about to leave and just kill time in Greenhills (I had been there the night before - remember my latest batch of comics?); I decided to take this picture to remind me of what was so different about this Saturday. Nothing fancy... either, just a wide angle shot to capture the set-up.

Lucky for me, I brought a book to read.

Photoblog - Day 189, Oct 15, 2010

Yes... more comics:

This particular batch makes me updated with the latest releases; considering we're just a few days different from the U.S. release - they get theirs on Wednesday and we get the same come Friday or Saturday, so it's just a two to three day delay... isn't that great?

What's so special about this particular batch? For starters, it's got Secret Avengers, which to me is the best Avengers title out in the market right now. Next, it has the 2nd issue of the new Classic Invaders story - and other gem... but aside from these two, I got to get a few Return of Bruce Wayne one-shots; a surprise since I did not even know of these issues, and was lucky to see them before they were all sold out. So yeah... this is a good batch - one I intend to read sooner rather than later.

Photoblog - Day 188, Oct 14, 2010

In the RAW...

It should be no surprise to this photoblog's followers (I count at least one - he he he) that I collect a myriad of books and magazines for equally many reasons - one of them, is definitely about photography.. and when I saw this book, I did not think twice.

RAW format photography was the way my friend, Jojo, suggested to me - at first I though about the eventual filling up of my memory card with such a format, but since I bought a second memory card, i worry less about that situation. I also remember another past colleague - one I still keep in touch with via FB, Pidoy... he also talked about RAW formats some five years ago - and he used to lug his camera to work all the time too.

This had definitely gotten me curious as to what RAW formats can offer - and hopefully, with this book - and some other reference materials, I will not just understand RAW photography better - but make full use of it's features/capabilities. For now though, capturing pictures in the RAW format makes my photoblogging process one step longer - since I now have to convert them to JPEG before posting - but I'm not complaining, if what happens will turn out to be quite stunning. FYI, I think with the possible exception of a handful of pictures in this photoblog, I believe most of these pictures - specifically those after the Rotary Induction I covered with Jojo, were taken in RAW format

This book is definitely a worthy addition to my library; if just for the pictures I found inside... and I am still absorbing the wisdom found between the paragraphs. So watch out world... another RAW nut is being created... me!

Photoblog - Day 187, Oct 13, 2010

Moth part deux:

Some days there are just certain situations that really call for themselves being captured by a camera - call it a photographer's serendipity moment (well... that is, if taking pictures were like shopping). There have, of course been several times I had seen an opportunity pass me by because I did not have a camera with me at that time. .. and even when I do bring a camera with me at most times, I sometimes still miss them due to the fleetingness of the situation - not this time though.

I saw this moth resting against the glass window while I was having coffee - waiting for Barbie. As it happened, the moth was outside the mall on an evening - not being disturbed by people passing by, nor apparently by me as I sat at the chair right beside the glass - overlooking the mall's outside waiting area.

I even took my time to focus for this shot, taking two or three shots before I was satisfied with what I got. I know I had already taken a moth up close once - and that picture is also i this photoblog - so this isn't the first time I captured a moth at rest... but this picture's angle was unique, so I had to just take it - and post the pic for all to see.

Defocussing the glass made it appear that the moth was suspended in air... and the macro shot background helped ensure that focus was to the moth and nothing else.

Photoblog - Day 186, Oct 12, 2010

My dad's birthday!

My dad turned 73 today - and as he mentioned, at that age... being able to celebrate and enjoy one's birthday is a gift in itself, hence his celebrating yearly. I'd have to agree... more so if you consider the fact that he is a cancer survivor (it's in total remission for year now). At his age, he still works - and he knows his best years are behind him... but that does not stop him form being an active body.

This photo is also somewhat special since it represents three generations of Syyaps - and though we're by no means complete, we're still thankful for the blessings coming his (as well as our) way.

There's another story to this event which makes our smiles that much more meaningful (meaning it's a miracle we could smile at all), since Barbie, the kids, Ben (not in the picture, since he's the one taking the shot) and I had to literally crawl through traffic to get to my dad's place. Three hours in what should have been the fast lane - the skyway, which made me quip and post in my FB that this skyway should be renamed the crawlway.

We arrived as most of the guests had already left, the caterers were in the process of cleaning up and boy... any celebratory mood we had was eaten up with th esheer frustration of the situation. Anyway... we did get to eat (and cool down), though we were unable to stay too long to enjoy the celebration, owing to the fact that it was a weekday and the kids still had classes the next day. The point is, we did arrive - and I got to take home a few samples of the dishes I liked too (one in particular dish - the callos, ended up being my dinner for two nights straight after this - and I wouldn't have complained eating it for a third night, had it not been finished by then).

Photoblog - Day 185, Oct 11, 2010

Training time again:

Back to the grind as usual, and this time, I had to handle one training; Detailed Design, with Vener (seen in this picture) and oversee how Francis was doing in Analysis - a training he can handle by himself, though with the presence of an expat, he might have needed a boost to know i was around if and when he needed help... though that is another story.

One thing worth noting - that is relatively different from other trainings is the fact that the Detailed Design class was using the new flat-screen monitors (as seen at this picture's foreground). Why is this surprising? Let's just say I've grown accustomed to using the older CRT monitors for training - so this was definitely a welcome surprise.

Since Francis seemed to be alright, I just agreed with him that I would step in tomorrow to handle a major module in the Analysis training... right after I make sure Vener understood the general direction of how to handle the Detailed Design course - one that, I might add, he seems more qualified than I to conduct.

Photoblog - Day 184, Oct 10, 2010

Pampering time:

We have a semi-regular routine. I normally let Barbie have her pampering time on Sundays - which would normally consist of either having a facial or going to the parlor to get her nails done, while I would roam around the mall - spending time either in a bookstore or a coffee shop.

Today, however, I decided to accompany her to the parlor to likewise have my toe nails done. This after what can possibly be considered as ages. Not that I can't cut and clean my nails by myself - but let's just say, I need more professional people to help me rid myself so some stubborn ingrown growth.

So yeah... today I experienced what she normally likes doing, having my nails done while I relax and read my novel, at least, during the times I almost did not fall asleep (guess it was all those pillows) - where at you ask? Well, it's a nail spa on the 5th level of the Shangri La Plaza. Not that I plan to make a habit of this, of course... but then again, it's not a bad idea to have this 'deeper' nails cleaning every quarter (at the very least). Besides, why should I complain when Barbie is the one footing the bill, right?

Photoblog - Day 183, Oct 9, 2010

Sunset in Cavite:

This picture was taken while I was driving in Daang Hari, on our way to Cavite. There was one time I noticed how the fields in Daang Hari offered an unobstructed view of a sunset, and this time I decided to be ready to possibly capture one... after all, we were on our way through this road at the right time and with the right conditions (not too cloudy to obstruct such a sunset). Slight problem though... I was driving, so I couldn't just stop and take the picture... much less take the shot while driving.

Solution? I asked Barbie to take the picture, while I drove at cruising speed to give her time to take the shot (actually, she got to take several), so though this was not a picture I took, I sure set it up and somehow acted like a director - giving her some quick tips to do take the shot.

Then what was left was for me to take out the non-essentials like cropping the cars in the foreground - thus giving the picture a more general field view as opposed to a highway view. Not that I would not have liked a highway view... but in this case it would have been a distraction to the picture. I mean, the tree's silhouette is a counterpoint as it is, I did not need more clutter.

So until I can capture a more beautiful sunset... say from a beach, this will have to do.

Photoblog - Day 182, Oct 8, 2010

Bonding time!

Whenever I arrive from work - no fail, I am greeted by my two most ardent admirers... Buffy and Bubbles, and both will not let up trying to grab my attention until I at the very least acknowledge them with; at the very lest, a pat on the head - and even then, that may not be enough.

For Buffy, a stomach scratch will do, and Bubbles must be carried! But you know what? I don't mind. In fact, I might even be slightly disappointed should they not show that same level of enthusiasm whenever I arrive.

So... ardent admirers? Without any exaggeration, I'd definitely have to say they both are. But the reality is they are glad to see me - and I'm glad to be greeted by them with such enthusiasm. Then again, do they greet anyone else with the same manner? Yes they do - specifically Barbie, Bryce and Bernice, albeit in a slightly less enthusiastic manner.

This picture was taken by Barbie using her Blackberry - after all, we did not have enough time to set up the Canon to capture such a spontaneous moment as this. Then again, if it does happen every time I do arrive, maybe we can set something up some time. That said, consider this my (first) October picture.

Photoblog - Day 181, Oct 7, 2010

Mommy's Birthday!

Mommy (my mother-in-law) celebrated her 70th birthday today, and to celebrate it, her children decided to have dinner at Yakimix - a Japanese/Korean restaurant found in the Mall of Asia - no surprise there. What was surprising was the fact that two of her children - Bernadette and Brian, together with Lynn (Brian's wife) planed in for a surprise appearance. I was not around when it happened, but from what I could hear, mommy was stunned to see them here.

We ate at the buffet - and I took the opportunity to go Japanese with all their Sushi and Sashimi options (man was I full that evening), and did not have space for the cooked meals - well, with exception of the tempura, which I took around six pieces of.

Did I discover anything about myself that night? Yup... namely, I'm not the same person I was with the eat-all-you-can thing. I've drastically lessened my appetite. Whether it's a psychological thing or not. who knows? Maybe I was just tired? Maybe I was 'off form' that night. Whatever the case, I felt that I did not do justice to the buffet's cost - or that I did not optimize the opportunity for said meal. Oh well... guess it comes with age too.

Needless to say, the lady of the hour definitely enjoyed the night.

Photoblog - Day 180, Oct 6, 2010

Blue birds:

These are the bird-like displays hanging from the ceiling of the Rockwell Mall, and normally they'd be almost mundane - but see how lively they turn out with the help of some lighting? Even I was amazed, and had to take a picture of this. What was seemingly so 'generic' a design came alive with the spotlight and special patters being displayed that night... and to think, this was not even a light show.

Nope... what was actually happening as I was taking this picture was a rehearsal/practice prior to a mini-Broadway show at the basement of the mall. Had I time to hang around, I may have even gotten some pictures. Unfortunately, our (meaning Barbie and me) going here was just by chance - having passed the grocery for a few items... then it's back to the road - homeward bound.

But at least, for this one brief moment, I saw a different Rockwell Mall... and further realized that with proper lighting, anything mundane can look very different - and yes... lively.

But yeah... I should find more time for enjoying these serendipitous events.

Photoblog - Day 179, Oct 5, 2010

Mangoes galore:

I chanced upon this fruit stand with really nice products, and had to just ask the proprietor his permission to take pictures of some of his fruits - I guess he rarely had someone ask permission for such because he seemed pleasantly surprised. He even gamely agreed when I said it was to make some of my friends living abroad partly envious of the pictures... after all, nothing beats the sweetness of our Philippine mangoes - and this is not just a personal opinion, mind you.

So yeah... three cheers to our local mangoes! I'm sure you Filipino folks living or working elsewhere do miss it right? Me? I take it semi-regularly... as part of the juice that Barbie prepares for breakfast (and sometimes, even for dinner), so yeah... I do appreciate what we have. Nope - I'm not taking this fruit for granted.

Photoblog - Day 178, Oct 4, 2010

My stash:

Did I say that the previous 'delayed' stash would coincide with my newer stash - the one scheduled for this last weekend? Well, true enough... as I looked at my comic shop, they already had the new batch waiting.

Not one to decline my stash - specially since the comic staff had taken effort to reserve the issues for me, I bought them (even if I was not yet really finished reading the previous stash. Besides, could not ignore the new Captain America issue, nor the Fantastic Four. I was curious about the new X-force as well. So yeah... more comics to read.

Man... it sounds almost like I'm complaining. How about that...

Photoblog - Day 177, Oct 3, 2010

My delayed stash:

One of the things I did right after arriving from Cebu, is to check my comic stash, and sure enough, I had a couple of comics waiting for me - mind you, this was when a lot of comics were connected to a current Daredevil storyline, so I naturally had a thick stash waiting for me.

True to form, I was too busy to read them when I got home, and I only got to read a couple of issues at a time - normally in between some break in what I was doing. This must be one of those really rare (though come to think of it, maybe not that rare these days) times when I'll have two stashes coming in quick succession. Ah well... I still enjoy reading them... and this Shadowland thing is just temporary.

Photoblog - Day 176, Oct 2, 2010

My Library:

I've accumulated my collection of all these books for years - some spanning even decades, and in the past they hardly warranted notice. But as early as the last two years, I started collecting books again at a quicker pace, and it eventually became apparent that I would need book selves to contain my collection.

This also brings me to one of my dreams... to have a house with it's own library, and though the dream is still that - at least, the library part was somehow fulfilled - you might even say, at the right time too, since these books were really stacking up on our headboard... and I don't know about the others, but should one of these hardbound books fall... oh, say 3 to 4 feet down your face, I'm sure it would at the very least leave one with a red face. So yeah... this bookshelf idea was long overdue.

I guess the reason it did not happen earlier was because we did not really have the extra funds, plus the discovery of a reasonably priced bookshelf - since both happened this last month, I was able to get two bookshelves (and realize that I apparently need a third already - imagine that).

I must say, it does look good... since these book cases are at our living area, it gives the place a 'learned' look, and now I get to see all my books - even the ones I've yet to read, neatly stacked together. Organizing them - and I plan to do so by subject matter... now that is a task for another day (or long weekend). For now, I'm simply glad I have these bookshelves. Besides, this particular bookshelf is where the X-mass tree will be in a few weeks time (I plan to start the tree project by end of October).

Photoblog - Day 175, Oct 1, 2010

Rajah Lobby:

This is the morning I return to Manila - and despite Cebu's many attractions, I can't wait to get home and be with my family again. Yet before this happens I have one last chance to sample the Rajah's buffet breakfast - and it better be a heavy meal because I anticipate a few trips around Metro Manila first before finally arriving home.

I woke up real early... guess you could say it was the anticipation, but Fiel and I needed to be in the airport by 7AM, so we really had to have an early breakfast anyway. Still, up at 4AM? I just leisurely packed all my stuff (and almost had to sit on my luggage due to the added 'pasalubongs' I stuffed it with), then went down around 5:30AM - time when the breakfast buffet would open.

It was at this same time - when the lights were rather subdued in the lobby, that I decided to take a picture (of said lobby) from the dining area - and when I looked at the picture I was surprised at how it looked more beautiful than I noticed. Guess there are certain things the camera reveals to us... things we take for granted. In this case, how the blue lights highlight or accentuate the lobby's looks.

Ah well... thanks for the experience guys.

Photoblog - Day 173, Sep 30, 2010

Basilica:

Funny, but in the three times I've previously been to Cebu (don't be surprised at the number, I hardly have had any reason to go there), I can't remember having stopped at the Cathedral and Basilica - both showing artifacts of early Christianity in Asia. Guess in the past, I had neither time nor real interest in them.

Nowadays I guess I'm more spiritual in nature, hence even in my busy schedule, I made it a point to find time to visit both... both to see these icons for myself - to satisfy my curiosity, and to have some quiet, reflection time.

I saw the Sto Niño, of course, and marveled at the line of devotees waiting their turn to 'greet' him. I stepped on one of the oldest streets in the Philippines and even viewed where Magellan's cross was supposedly encased in an outer layered wooden cross... I say supposedly because without seeing it, we can only accept the fact that it's there (or not, and just accept the current cross as a mere symbol of what was) - and naturally, I looked at the Basilica itself.

Having read 'Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follet, I better appreciated the workings of the old church, comparing it with the newer cathedral I came form earlier. I doubt I would have taken anything but an unappreciative cursory glance at this old church - even a historical one at that, had I not read the novel.

My only regret is that I was on the clock - so I really had only time to take selected pictures of all these things... and not get to create a near photo documentary of said church.

Maybe, on my 5th visit?

Photoblog - Day 172, Sep 29, 2010

The Terrace Garden:

This is Cebu's new pride - the Ayala Terraces, a well-designed (in my opinion) green mall concept; at least... from the gardening viewpoint. It's a great place to just hang around in the evening while enjoying your favorite coffee or brew. Hence the rows of restaurants, coffee shops and bistros overlooking the multi-tiered terrace overlooking the garden in the middle of the mall.

Since this place is literally walking distance to the PM training, Fiel and I went here almost on a nightly basis... not to drink though, but more to explore... admire the view (and take a few shots, naturally) while looking for some familiar things like a Fully Booked bookstore - where I had to get a new paperback, since the one I brought over with me to Cebu was already 'consumed' in two evenings.

The Terraces extends the old Ayala mall, thus adding more shopping space for those who wished to explore more - but I have to say that the main attraction of this place is the wonderfully manicured gardens, well-maintained trees and overall impact of serenity - even amidst the hustle and bustle of Metro Cebu.

Photoblog - Day 171, Sep 28, 2010

Cebu PM School:

Here's how our training in Cebu looked like... roughly around a dozen participants of varying levels and assignments, all inside one room - and wherever I looked I got to see similarities between one Accenture office and the next - proving the uniformity or standardized manner in the way the company handles its office designs.

As for the people, they were both friendly and accommodating - for example, when they realized that Fiel, who was in Cebu much loner than I, had just about enough of having Chicken for lunch (and dinner) they made sure that the next few days will nto see any form of Chicken in the snacks or lunch packages. I guess it was also a blessing that Fiel went ahead... so he got to properly coordinate the installation of files for the course to proceed normally.

Most importantly, this was a training that we were both comfortable to teach - having done it separately so many times. So yeah... clockwork comes to mind. Lastly... if you look at the picture hard enough, you'll see Fiel in lecture mode.

Photoblog - Day 170, Sep 27, 2010

Morning in Cebu:

Here's the view from inside the hotel looking outside to the rotunda of Fuente Osmeña on an early morning... while the sun has still to fully rise up. This is what greets me in Cebu as I have my breakfast before going to Accenture Cebu's office.

My coming to this trip in itself is a story... and let's just say it dealt this last minute adjustments, replacements and sunken expenses on the planner's viewpoint due to their... to put it politely, overblown bureaucracy. Luck for them, i was free to join Fiel (yes, it's us two again) for the PM school to be conducted here.

It's been at least a decade - maybe even two decades, since my last Cebu trip... and that, too, was training related. So much as it was a hassle to have those last minute changes, and reservations, I look forward to rediscovering Cebu... that is my silver lining in all this chaos.

Photoblog - Day 169, Sep 26, 2010

Meiji's Birthday!

Meiji is Bryce's girlfriend and I don't mind saying that she's someone who has had a relatively positive impact on both Bryce and us. Needless to say, Barbie likes her, and we have had on occasion, invited her with some family gatherings... the latest being (of course) Bryce's birthday.

This get together was not just us... but her family and friends coming out in force and getting together in California Pizza Kitchen in Greenbelt 5. I was definitely full, and we even got to chat with Meiji's mother and aunt a bit.

Too bad I had a sudden flight to Cebu early morning, so we had to go leave early. We were also not that prepared to get her a gift... but Bryce and I managed to get her her favorite flower... a Sunflower as her simple gift. Hope she liked it... and once again, thank you Meiji - not just for the food, but for the positive influence you've given Bryce.