the audacity effect

in retrospect

2012-01-26T14:06:00.000Z

"an unhappy life as a material for art"

I know the feeling mister. It comes and go for me though.

how old is your soul?

2012-01-25T14:01:00.000Z

Early morning, mid-morning, late afternoon.

young love murder...

2012-01-21T18:13:00.000Z

...that is what this must be.

order some flavor

2012-01-20T14:50:00.000Z

A saturday night version of my bjacz and I.

i live my life in the setting sun

2012-01-16T15:15:00.000Z

I get lost in the night. I'm so high I don't want to come down.

you are a whispering campaign

2012-01-13T16:29:00.000Z

Take me anywhere. By bus wouldn't be bad.

standing so close to someone else

2012-01-11T00:35:00.001Z

I don't speak as much as I wish here. Kind of sad really, but I should though. Just let me hide behind my hair for the moment and then I'll probably resume my usual self.

make-believing we're together

2012-01-09T14:52:00.000Z

that you were fooling me

2012-01-05T20:20:00.001Z

"For your precious love means more to me
Than any love could ever be
For when I wanted you I was so lonely and so blue
For that's what love will do"

hold you for a million years

2012-01-02T18:30:00.000Z

Happy New Year!

Let's all welcome 2012 with open arms and an open mind. :)

In retrospect, 2011 has been the most thrilling for me. Everything was new and I'm living on my own. It can't be more exciting than that. I've accomplished a lot and regretted a lot. It's when I look back that I'm able to put my life in perspective.

I have finished my second year doing the 365 project. It has taught me to really push myself and persevere. It's been a great habit to form. I'm not sure if I'll be doing it this year though. I'm thinking of doing a self-portrait project. I want to stretch my creativity more and this will definitely do.

I wish all of you the very best in 2012. *hugs*

and you sang your refrain

2011-12-30T00:52:00.000Z

We miss our lecturer when we did our HNC course last school year, so we decided to finally find the time to have dinner at Nando's with her and catch up. But alas, her work got on the way so that meant continuing with dinner with my good friends. I know we see each other a lot in college and around the neighborhood but I'm really glad that I have them. I'm thankful I have gone through this whole experience in a new foreign place with them. With all the struggles, we had each other's backs.

she's ahead of her time

2011-12-28T12:13:00.000Z

"And she'll promise you more
Than the Garden of Eden
Then she'll carelessly cut you
And laugh while you're bleeding
But she'll bring out the best
And the worst you can be
Blame it all on yourself
Cause she's always a woman to me"

dreams still follow storylines

2011-12-27T12:01:00.000Z

Dreaming by Tommy Hilfiger, Siren by Paris Hilton, Sweet Darling by Kylie Minogue, 212 Sexy by Carolina Herrera, Light Blue by Dolce and Gabbana

Bought myself one too many perfumes at the same time (without actually knowing what they smelled like as I only relied on the description given), well the last one's a gift. But still... I just can't resist.

happy christmas

2011-12-26T11:43:00.000Z

Merry/Happy/Blissful Christmas to one and all.

This is my first christmas away from home and I'm trying to keep the sadness away by surrounding myself with friends and with my extended family I have here. We had a wonderful pumping party on the eve of christmas in our flat. It was a good night as I can easily access my bed as I pass out. Haha

make sure i behave

2011-12-24T20:47:00.000Z

This is me on Christmas eve trying to catch up on late posts. Haha
With all the parties lining up it's hard to keep on track.

Filipino-Scottish Christmas Charity Party 2011.

shall i stay

2011-12-22T12:28:00.001Z

i suggested a smile

2011-12-20T15:33:00.000Z

I position myself to roll the bowling ball but instead it slips away from my fingers causing it to roll back and my friends laughing hysterically. Butterfingers, that's what it was.

the friction is static

2011-12-19T12:21:00.000Z

Edinburgh park in all its light-filled glory.

the glow on the windowpane

2011-12-17T23:10:00.001Z

We had the most lovely time with all our lecturers during our Christmas dinner as sponsored by the college. It was an outstanding 3-course meal and the conversations across the table were lively and loud, as always. It's nice to know our lecturers outside the classroom as we only meet them two times a week. We tore open those crackers, wore our "eating" party hats and let tour taste buds succumb to the culinary goodness that they offered. Thank you for this.

to think i'm dynamite

2011-12-16T19:32:00.000Z

Tangerine, lavender and baby pink. It's like cotton candy set on fire on my hair. Haha I'm still getting used to it.

Why not dye all of it you say? Because that would mean going platinum blonde which is way to risky for my naturally jet black hair. It may mean loads of hair fall which I would not want for my already thinned out hair.

Thank you for helping me out with this.

how can i walk away

2011-12-13T22:25:00.000Z

We couldn't sleep. I was playing with my camera. She was playing with her make up. We had Boyce Avenue playing in the background. It was a fun midnight.

I wish I could have used natural light though. I suck at low lights. Alas, I shall practice (or I should just buy a flashgun?). The winter nights are coming and sunlight is scarce.

i'll obey a cheer tonight

2011-12-11T20:46:00.000Z

First few shots from my Samyang 8mm. Notice how I don't have much of a location to test this out. It's either my flat, college or work. Mundane I know.

Right, so I may have a bit of a social life but I don't bring my camera with me for fear of spills, hits and losses. And then there's me passing out.

I'll post more proper ones soon.

by seeing London IV

2011-12-10T23:25:00.000Z

Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park.

At first I'd be like " wow. look at those rides, let's ride some"
then I'll be "I'm not sure anymore but I paid for this so I guess I'm going in"
then when I'm on the ride I'll be like "GET ME OUT OF HERE.. HEEEELLLPPPP ANYOOONEEE!"
then finally after the whole ordeal I'll be like "LET'S DO IT AGAIN!!!" while simultaneously laughing and crying like crazy. End of story.

I've never seen such a park that huge before. There were shops, rides and an ice rink for the public's enjoyment. I definitely had my fill of the thrill.We only rode the really gut-wrenching ones which was worth the money. *cough* £7 each *cough* I felt like my soul was still up there in the chilly air so I had some mulled wine to ease myself (which I particularly did not like).

never been so ominous

2011-12-09T23:15:00.000Z

I will now consider these as early Christmas gifts to myself. (and counting...)

01 - multi-colored watches to brighten up my mundane black jacket which I always wear on these winter times. brrrrr.

02- Samsung Galaxy Y. My first android phone and it's about time. I really like how small and compact this phone is, since I'm the back pocket kind of person. It runs on Gingerbread and I'm really glad with its speed but very bummed with its battery life. I guess I use it too much?

03- Samyang 8mm Fish Eye Lens. I've always wanted one and I want my photos to look funky at the same time. I know I just bought a Sigma lens last month but I can't help it. Haha

I guess I've been resorting to materialism to fill a gap in my life. I miss home.

be the cartoon heart

2011-12-08T22:51:00.004Z

Hurricane Bawbag. 38mph of non-stop wind is scary.

I can hardly see with my hair whipping all over my face as well as the the cold air stinging my eyes. Made me wish I had goggles on. I was hoping for dear life that I don't get hit by a trash bin or worse, a trampoline.

I hope everyone stays safe.

coming back like you always do

2011-12-08T01:05:00.000Z

"It killed me to see you getting always rejected,
but I didn't mind the things you threw, the phones I deflected.
I didn't mind you blaming me for your mistakes,
I just held you in the doorframe through all of the earthquakes."
-The Antlers, Two

live a little longer

2011-12-05T17:18:00.000Z

soft kitty warm kitty little ball of fur happy kitty sleepy kitty purr purr purr

Our London looks.

like i'm made of paper

2011-12-04T18:06:00.000Z

The Rail Bridge.

something in the wires made the lightbulbs break

2011-12-01T16:16:00.000Z

I was stressing out so much after having to make a 3,000 word essay in which Google could not help me. It involved a lot of critical analysis and that means having to actually use my brain which I managed to squeeze some juice out. Since that's all over, they'll probably have to make us more but not anytime soon.

Sacrebleu it's December. These shots were taken in Edinburgh City Centre. Shops, mulled wine, ice rinks and child-safe rides have popped out for everyone to enjoy. There seems to be no sign of snow for the moment but there is a whole lot of 20mph wind.

by eating in London

2011-11-30T09:16:00.000Z

Just some of the delectable treats we had during our trip. We had some chinese, italian and fast food in between as well.

Obviously our taste buds had the time of their lives. :)

by seeing London III

2011-11-29T10:57:00.000Z

London Eye.

I've only just admired this from afar, and by afar, I would mean from my television screen when I used to watch NatGeo with my dad. There was a good offer on the tickets too so we just had to hop on it and enjoy the view. It took about half an hour for the full cycle. There were 10 more people in the pod and I didn't mind. That day was a bit foggy- I could slice some of the fog up and eat it for dinner. haha The skyline is too beautiful whether day or night.

by seeing London II

2011-11-27T23:04:00.000Z

Camden Town.

I was told beforehand that people in this town don't want any photos taken of them or their shop so I had to do some undercover stuff. haha The shops and food stalls are all lined up to create a bustling atmosphere- the kind that tourists, like myself, would thrive in.

I got myself a shirt, keychain and furry snood. Very typical indeed. I was really tempted to buy more but my luggage can only hold so much without the zippers tearing out from its seams.

by seeing London

2011-11-25T11:55:00.000Z

buckingham palace, fountain in front of palace, unidentified building (hehe), palace guards, waiting in the metro, trafalgar square, countdown timer for the Olympics 2012, the big ben and river thames, stranger, tower bridge

glimpses

2011-11-22T23:50:00.000Z

4 days. 3 nights. London. Friends. These are glimpses on our first day. Just you wait for the tourist-y photos to come up. I'll probably be showing loads of poses and teeth.

Almost missing our early morning flight was such an awful feeling since we kind of took our time buying perfume and drinks. We got to the plane breathless but still smiling. Well, the rest are all in the photos that will be posted soon.

(I know the color tones seem inconsistent but what the heck :) )

after midnight

2011-11-21T23:30:00.000Z

Xavier, musician. Listen to his cover of Blink 182's After Midnight in soundcloud.
Or just stalk him in Twitter. haha

once upon a time we fell apart

2011-11-16T15:03:00.000Z

At South Queensferry on a gloomy Monday.

walk a little walk

2011-11-15T01:04:00.001Z

At Illegal Jack's South West Grill with X and D for some tacos, buritos and nachos.

I had some tacos and had 3 different meat in the 3 shells because I'm such a carnivore. I hate how the stuffings in my tacos run away whenever I try to sink my teeth in them. Haha I'm just a sloppy eater I guess.

I was so stuffed, I kind of felt sleepy after. I think it was either the dim lights or the overpacked stomach that caused the dozing off. It was a really good place to eat after a whole afternoon of strolling around with a 570g camera around the neck.

yeah, the fake's out

2011-11-13T21:27:00.000Z

Because stretching my actual ear would just not suit me.

when the feeling is chronic pt. trois

2011-11-09T19:34:00.000Z

Photography by Kirsty Murray
W: www.kreativephotography.co.uk

Don't make me point out the common denominator in all the photos. :)

I'm thinking of making a list for stuff to buy for the family back home. I'm just waiting on my new bank card to finally arrive and that's when I can finally splurge out the cash. Yes I lost my wallet but this lady from the bar messaged me in facebook saying that she had it, so yey! Thank you kind stranger.

when the feeling is chronic pt. deux

2011-11-07T21:16:00.001Z

Photography by Kirsty Murray
W: www.kreativephotography.co.uk

I had to put in a new banner for this blog since I basically had none for the past few months.
This time I was inspired by Coldplay's Mylo Xyloto. I used Photoshop CS3 for both the font style and the banner to come together.
The font, Every Truetype is a Wisefont, can be downloaded here.
The splash background used in the album cover is here.

when the feeling is chronic

2011-11-04T21:23:00.000Z

Photography by Kirsty Murray

W: www.kreativephotography.co.uk

We've exchanged emails for a while and by a while, I meant during the summer, but alas, the seasons are upon us and we had autumn to work with. It was a lovely afternoon with her and her talent at the meadows.

to swallow the night

2011-11-01T22:38:00.000Z

My friends and I wanted to do one of those haunted tour guides in the royal mile but ended up getting confused because of too many people. The heavy rain showers didn't help either. It was fun looking at all their costumes though. I just wish my hands weren't so shaky by then I could've taken decent photos.

We went to the closest graveyard and scared ourselves to bits. That's how we roll on Halloween.

candy talks to strangers

2011-10-30T12:01:00.003Z

They're celebrating pa's birthday and our hometown's fiesta back home, and I'm stuck here not eating all the goodness our kitchen has to offer. Bummer.

On a good note, I will be heading to London soon with friends and I can't wait. I will be getting my tourist on.

a light to burn all the empires

2011-10-26T20:18:00.000+01:00

18:02-23:40

I guess what I needed was just the night, the town and the people in it.

caffeinated sunrise

2011-10-22T20:17:00.000+01:00

How coffee is beautifully made by a lovely friend.

She has all these gadgets and all these intricate measurements. At first I thought it was time-consuming but looking at it made me see all the love and goodness that both coffee and a friend offer and contain.

Random fact about me: I have a thing with burning my tongue a lot of times though so I prefer my coffee lukewarm. Haha

the ice skating experience

2011-10-15T23:58:00.000+01:00

Born and raised in a tropical country means I know only the sun and rain. So when my friend told me that we'll go skating, I thought she meant roller blading. Only then did I realize that she meant ice skating. I was excited to finally wear those blades but the fear of falling has gotten to my head more than actually enjoying the whole thing.

I was just glad that I can stand on ice with those blades but actually moving in the ice rink got me so shaky that I eventually fell a lot. I learned all the basics from her though so I was glad she was there. Kids circling around me was kind of intimidating but I didn't care anymore, I just want to skate! haha Everyone else had to endure my swearing (in my native tongue) and Ola found it funny the whole time. Well, if I listened to myself I would be in hysterics as well. I had to always think to bend forward, knees together, lift leg, move gracefully and not to panic.

And when I can finally skate, I panic. Typical me.

the beatles, a puzzle

2011-10-12T09:47:00.000+01:00

The afternoon after a very heavy birthday party at P's, we spent the morning cleaning up and opening up her gifts. Lo and behold someone gave her this amazing present. She had to clear the coffee table for this baby and after a bout 3 hours of solving, we got the borders of the puzzle solved. Not bad.

make damn sure

2011-10-10T18:02:00.001+01:00

What my stomach has succumbed to lately. Aside from the usual booze.

see the thorn twist in your side

2011-10-05T11:19:00.000+01:00

(to see .gif version click here)

She invited me to come over and celebrate her friend's birthday and meet some Portuguese-speaking guys. I thought there will be drinks and cigarettes around but I was wrong. These group of friends are different from what I'm used to. They introduced me to my first shisha. They taught me the ropes and they were cool enough to do some of those smoke rings. Inhaling the mint is so soothing, exhaling it is just as calming. Who knew this could be a better alternative than cigarettes? I don't smoke and I don't know how to really. I can't wait to try more flavors. We went out to party later on. Their fancy footwork on the dancefloor is impressive.

she's long gone

2011-10-01T19:27:00.001+01:00

I finally found the time to do this, blogging and outfit post.

It has been a while because everyday has been a mix of cries and smiles. I guess majority of the cries are boy problems. After being hurt so many times, I've felt my heart slowly turning into an igneous rock which is a good thing for me. On the other hand, my smiles have been a result of gaining new friends who excessively parties. But hey, I don't get that drunk and pass out on the streets. Oh no no. I'm the responsible drinker type (who tends to cry hysterically at times).

happy 22

2011-09-26T20:53:00.001+01:00

I coudn't be any more happy when I celebrated my 22 with them. I was definitely pressured to do something for my birthday because people kept asking me about it. So everything was done at the last minute, from the venue, cooking to the drinks. Thanks to everyone for making this possible. Seriously, thanks.

'Twas a happy birthday indeed.

happy 22

2011-09-25T00:20:00.000+01:00

Thumbs up, clasp hands together, smile big, laugh the night away with friends. A glimpse of my birthday on the 21st.

and i put myself at ease

2011-09-20T20:00:00.000+01:00

And I fall asleep and dream of alternate realities.

why would you tape my conversations?

2011-09-13T17:05:00.000+01:00

Oh look a .gif! I've always wanted one of me. Haha

There's so much I want to say but I can't. There are stories that will forever be in the 'draft's section. Unless of course Blogger picks up the control over the privacy of a post but until then, hello drafts!

Vampire Weekend- Oxford Comma

done, done and i' m on to the next one

2011-09-05T22:15:00.001+01:00

Un-photoshopped. Un-lightroomed. Yet still a beaut. Edinburgh had some fireworks display last night but I was working so I can only see it from the window from my client's house. It's better than nil. *sigh*

This is me trying to fill in from all the days that I'm not blogging. So I have started year 2 at college and I really hope the plan for this year will go smooth. Everything will have to speed up twice as fast for us now. I need to put my 80% in it as well. While the 10% goes to work and the other 10% for partying. The latter has been very tempting lately. My twitter account would know.

there’s nothing wrong with just a taste of what you paid for

2011-09-02T12:45:00.000+01:00

August 27,2011 - Panic! At The Disco

Brendon's vocals are unbelievably killer. His cheeky moments between the crowd and the band members are just hilarious. They played tracks from their previous albums and the crowd were just as lively with their beer in hand. They came back for an encore and played two more songs. The venue is pretty small for such a big band though. Anyway, it was a fun night, seeing him shirtless and singing to George Micheal's Careless Whisper (just when I thought I'd be sick of hearing that song, I wasn't at all when he was the one singing it..haha)

it's the tick of our time

2011-09-01T00:51:00.000+01:00

The original plan was to go to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park but the unexpected turnabout in the weather has caused the animals into hiding. Instead, the Stirling Castle was an awesome alternative for us to enjoy a day out. All in all, it was fun seeing the different areas in the castle and how people have lived in it. I imagine spirits lurking around the mossy hallways and damp tunnels more often actually. We also planned to go to St. Andrew's University but time was not in our favour. Oh well, there's more to come.

I borrowed my friend's 10-20mm lens and fell in love with it. This is just perfect to capture the landscape of the castle so perfectly. I also like how 'warped' a person looks when they are in the edge of the frame.

fringe 2011

2011-08-29T11:40:00.000+01:00

The month-long international festivity has ended and even if I didn't go to that much shows, the streets were just as interesting to be in. All the shops, art, acts and people give so much life to the place, it would be a sin to just stay in my flat if I have a day off from work.

i'm too young to feel this old

2011-08-24T23:40:00.001+01:00

Self-pity striked me last night. Pathetic really.

"I never ever cried when I was feeling down.
I was always too scared of the sound"
Kings of Leon- Cold Desert

we only part to meet again

2011-08-22T23:44:00.000+01:00

If the banner in that bridge that Ola hung up didn't suffice, we're not kidding when we say "WE WILL MISS U MAIDER". She'll be going back to her original home, Spain, and I already miss her at work. She is such a genuine and funny person to partner up with during shifts. She is just too cool for words really. (this is me wishing I had her red hair and tattoos..haha)

Spent the night with good friends for some drinks and music. When I see all of us laughing and having a good time, I feel blessed to have met them. I've never met such an eclectic group of friends.

The city feels just as alive at night as it is in the day. It's too beautiful for words really. I just wish I had a wide angle lens to capture the skyline. In time, I will.

i'm in the grip of a hurricane

2011-08-21T16:48:00.000+01:00

After her two days of rendezvous at London (where I should have been as well /facepalm), she brought me home a souvenir. It was delightful to see this gift laid in the shelf just waiting for me to open it.

Thanks muchos!

my beloved was weighed down

2011-08-20T16:11:00.000+01:00

It was our friend's birthday and we celebrated by drowning ourselves in chlorinated water with six other strangers all trying to keep fit while we were like kids just keeping afloat.

is there room for one more song?

2011-08-18T12:44:00.003+01:00

01 panic! at the disco tickets for next saturday is ready (hello gig number 2!)

02 mango fruit passion and conversations with an agnostic

03 an extension tube that he didn't make use which is now mine (thanks kuya!)

so shoot a star on the boulevard tonight

2011-08-17T08:28:00.000+01:00

Photo from Brian

When the car is running and we know no sleep, we were off to the beach side at North Berwick. I was just really glad that I finally got to touch sea water after the longest time. It was pitch black and still beautiful. I had sand on my shoes and between my fingers and I didn't mind. I just hoped we could swim in it. But the freezing temperatures are unbearable at that time of the night or even at day.

What a midnight run.

an expo

2011-08-10T16:46:00.000+01:00

I went to the Scottish Parliament today to see some of the most riveting and inspiring events captured by professional photographers all over the world. This is the World Press Photo 2011 where most of the time I was cringing in pain from some of the disturbing events. I left that expo feeling sad from all the painful truth but still inspired.

You can go to their website to know what I actually mean as I cannot take photos of their actual work because I might get sued if I do. :D

http://www.worldpressphoto.org/
"WE EXIST TO INSPIRE UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD THROUGH QUALITY PHOTOJOURNALISM"

i wanna give this imagery back

2011-08-09T12:21:00.000+01:00

The first week of August came by in such a blur. It's a blur because all I did was work for 8 days straight. I'm not complaining though, I just wished I had some time for myself in between all of those. I didn't even feel the festival spirit here in Edinburgh yet but I really should.

This month equates the Edinburgh Festival Fringe:

"The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and takes place every August for three weeks in Scotland’s capital city.

Every year thousands of performers take to a multitude of stages all over Edinburgh to present shows for every taste. From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival caters for everyone and includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, musicals, operas, music, exhibitions and events."

I have gone over their show guides to find some free shows. And wow there's a lot.

dreaming of revelry

2011-08-07T00:08:00.000+01:00

I was looking through my photos and I don't think I've shared this before.

This idea was from http://faceyourpockets.com/ and the process is to scan yourself and your treasured items and share it online. I like how clever and artistic people got with this project. My scans are soooo 2009 and I should really make an updated version. Having my face scanned actually felt warm and painless. Opening the eyes while scanning can be a bit sore though because of the very bright light.

Go ahead and give your pretty face and your valuables a scan. Provide me a link of your photos because I want to see yours. :)

these streets have too many names for me

2011-08-03T23:51:00.000+01:00

I just want to get lost some more. I'm getting used to my poor sense of direction paired with a strong sense of wonder.

Paolo Nutini- These Streets

the crowd buzzing quietly

2011-08-01T08:44:00.001+01:00

I've lived in Edinburgh for 6 months now and I still feel like a tourist. Everything looks so much better with my brand new glass eyes.

01 My friends and I went to the National Museum of Scotland's grand re-opening and I was particularly keen to see the dinosaurs and space exhibition.

02 a solar system model with lovely details of the galaxy

03 might actually try climbing up The Scott Monument

04 getting some snooze at the park

05 too adorable to resist. both the flowers and the kid.

bend the light, pretend pt. deux

2011-07-30T00:08:00.000+01:00

Photographed by Joanna Blusiewicz (at the Royal Botanical Garden, Edinburgh)

Flickr, Facebook, Blogger, Viewbook

This series of 'Lucille' (which is my real first name) by Joanna has ended now but she has more to show you on those links above. Her dreamy and oftentimes cinematic photos are inspiring and breathtaking.

bend the light, pretend

2011-07-27T09:16:00.017+01:00

Photographed by Joanna Blusiewicz (at the Royal Botanical Garden, Edinburgh)
Flickr, Facebook, Blogger, Viewbook

The weather was just perfect for this and the various locations are just too beautiful. I remembered strolling during the winter and in an eerie sense it was lovely as well.

Also, my chances of getting a scholarship was trashed when I got the rejection letter. Ouch. I have to rise above this though. To keep the sadness away, I went to the city with my camera to just soak in all the people who were hustling and bustling. It's a miracle I didn't do any retail therapy because I was inches close to taking out my debit card and just splurging.

Le resist.

all of the streetlight eyes pt. deux

2011-07-25T10:30:00.015+01:00

Photographed by Joanna Blusiewicz
Flickr, Facebook, Blogger, Viewbook

I haven't taken my camera out to the city but I will soon. Still reading the manual because I want to capture more than just using the 'auto'mode. I might finally understand all the lingos and what sort of magic they possess.haha

What a noob.

time goes, you say?

2011-07-22T14:56:00.002+01:00

via from the movie, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

Time waits for no one.

That is exactly the reason why I cannot wait until my birthday to buy myself a camera. Sure I may have had Bubba last year and sure I may have said that I wanted the Canon Eos 60D, but fortunately enough, Canon released a new model on February 2011 which is a bit like the 60D but only cheaper and just as awesome. It's the Canon Eos 600D which I bought from amazon.co.uk.

So it was perfect timing that I was skype-ing with my friends when the delivery man had just buzzed my flat and I swiftly opened the door for him while grinning like a mad woman, waiting for him to hand me my goodies. I slashed the box open with my house keys and out came flying the brown papers and bubble wrap.

Finally, after months of saving up, I have my 600D aka. Gaspard. This is the raw-est image of me about to unbox while causing a ruckus.

And now I'm hungry from all this excitement. Time to whip up some sandwich.

UPDATE: within the hour, I made some video test shots.

all of the streetlight eyes

2011-07-20T18:46:00.001+01:00

Meeting new people in a foreign land will always go hand in hand. That's why it's been such a pleasure to meet Joanna, a lovely Polish photographer, for a shoot out at the city and to the gardens (well, more of the latter soon).

It's been really great to listen to her travel stories and learning so much about her style and manner in photography. Her down-to-earth nature made every shot feel comfortable.

See more of Joanna's talent:
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forever on paper 2

2011-07-15T20:49:00.000+01:00

Drawn by Madz

If my life was in cartoon motion, that is my other me. She would live her life. I would live in mine. I wonder whose life has more design and substance. We'll converse in dreams to find that out.

Muse- Guiding Light

stripped to the core

2011-07-13T12:46:00.000+01:00

When work doesn't consume me, I devour this and more.

the catalyst

2011-07-09T19:38:00.000+01:00

Amidst a gray day, I had my coral tights to make the rain go away.

circle the rain

2011-07-06T23:44:00.000+01:00

The expected downpour didn't stop us from enjoying our day out shopping and sight -seeing at the National Gallery of Scotland, St. Giles Church, Waverley train station, Hollyrood Park, Edinburgh Castle. Then just basically lolly-gagging at the Royal Mile.We were on full-on tourist mode. haha

forever on paper

2011-07-04T20:58:00.000+01:00

Drawn by Madz

I remember sitting beside her in class and seeing her draw animated version of my friends and I. Even her doodles are amazing that I would beg her to give me the scrap of paper she doodled on.haha She puts so much dimension and detail that it would be silly to disturb her during her 'artist at work' mode. Digital art is all the rage, I know, but nothing compares to good 'ol pencil and paper.

If you want a portrait of yourself carved in paper, Madz would not hesitate to be challenged. She would love to capture every curve, hair strand and smile with the talent she has. So contact her for more information: madm_boone@yahoo.com

pluck not the wayside flower

2011-07-01T06:41:00.001+01:00

I miss heading out from home to be greeted by hundreds of these orchids. It's a struggle just to even find the gate...but it's a beautiful struggle.

Photos taken by mom's friend.

you fall, my pride

2011-06-29T20:18:00.000+01:00

"now the hungry lion roars

and the wolf behowls the moon"

From the city to the park and to places in between. It was a beautiful day out with friends.

hooded jacket- H&M; shirt-Primark; shredded shorts- Primark; gray tights; blue denim shoes; bag-H&M

no such thing as too much fun

2011-06-27T23:36:00.000+01:00

June 26-Kings of Leon, Edinburgh, Murrayfield

I cannot pretty much fathom how awesome KOL were. The chugging guitar riffs, heart-racing drumbeats and Tennessee vocals are perfection. This is me overstating everything 'coz it's my first concert to go to. The opening acts were Zac Brown Band and The White Lies. They were really good. I might actually listen to them.

When KOL finally arrived on stage, I had to stand up because I can't just tap my feet to their music the whole time! I had to stand up and rock out! I bet the couples beside me were quite freaked out.haha From the opening to the ending and then to the encore, it was pure rock and roll. Everyone was clapping and whistling for 5 minutes straight until they finally came back to the stage and sang about 5 more songs which ended with some matching fireworks. I wanted to scream out "your music reverberates deep into my soul" but all I could say was "WOHOOO!" and "YEAAHH!!". They played some tracks off their previous albums which I didn't know but I was still singing along. (well, at least attempting to). The crowd was just so energetic.

"I don't know what it is about Scotland," he smiled "with you guys there's no such thing as too much fun." -Caleb Followill

we are allowed to get us something

2011-06-25T18:30:00.000+01:00

I willed my mind to believe that I was going to see Kings of Leon live.

I didn't have the ticket back then because it was out of my budget (£60). So I devised a plot to let the universe conspire with me. This involved cancelling all work that happens to fall on the concert date, listening to their songs non-stop, telling myself (and others) that I'm going, and tracking down the cheapest ticket that I could find on ebay. And voila!, I won the ticket for £21 and the ever so efficient delivery man had it the next day. This is my first concert to go to and I'm pretty much psyched to see them live tomorrow.

I'm so glad the collaboration worked.

Kings of Leon- The Immortals

Lord of the Flies

2011-06-23T23:07:00.000+01:00

It has been years that I kept seeing this book across the shelves of numerous bookstores, and only now have I read it. I was pretty much devastated after reading this. There is nothing literal about the title. It's a story set during World War II about a group of schoolboys stranded in a deserted island who only have themselves to survive. The lack of society and societal rules is a struggle for the boys as they are confused as to who should be 'chief', who makes the fire and who hunts.

The minute details of death, sacrifice and hunting made me feel their pain and angst so I guess that's why this is the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. The symbolism in this story is true to the past as it is to the present. Think of it somewhat like the Lost series but only involving children. What an enjoyable read this has been.

“Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man's heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy.” (Chapter 12)

laughing on the windowpanes

2011-06-20T18:01:00.000+01:00

An afternoon with carbs and our new baby boy friend. His British accent is just to die for.

every car you chase

2011-06-15T14:22:00.000+01:00

From a barbecue party to a lovely day out at the city to eating out at KFC to getting called up in the middle of the night to have a pizza by the beach. Ahhhh these awesome moments are just awesome. Who knew so much can happen in a day?

happy tummy, sad calves

2011-06-12T22:36:00.000+01:00

When a friend of a friend has a birthday, my appetite becomes monstrous. Toffee cakes and sandwiches are just some of the goodness that their flat were filled with.I left with a very happy tummy. Thank you friend of friend. :)

I do not regret the calories. I can always shed off some of the weight with all the walking since traysikads are non existent here. Hello humongous calves!

close your eyes and see the beauty

2011-06-11T20:05:00.000+01:00

I don't like standard beauty - there is no beauty without strangeness. ~Karl Lagerfeld

I'm tired of the usual blonde and blue eyed models on the cover of fashion magazines. I'm tired of actresses on the covers. Show me someone with curves, with gap-tooth, with androgyny. Someone should definitely shed some light on unconventional beauty. When will that day come.

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner

2011-06-08T14:26:00.001+01:00

I would be more interested if it was Jane's life really. I know this isn't much of a review but I find the story too bland. I guess teen fiction doesn't suit me anymore. For the exception of Hunger Games Series though.haha

free as my hair

2011-06-06T10:30:00.000+01:00

Because I feel the need to let the frustrations out. I choked up when you told me no.

she paints her fingers with a close precision

2011-06-02T19:45:00.000+01:00

Things that I need to remind myself to not do while waiting for a bus on a bus stop:

suddenly bursting into a song number, most especially a love ballad, with matching hand gestures and facial expressions
fart inside the pod
stand behind or beside someone (depending which direction the wind is going) who smokes
forgetting my bus card
checking my reflection on the different buses passing by 'coz the other person behind the glass might freak out
getting distracted by luxury/ sports cars that the actual bus might pass by me
getting distracted by beautiful people on the other side of the road who're waiting for the bus as well

Well that's me. My bus stop bloopers are just endless really.

dear i fear

2011-06-01T00:56:00.001+01:00

nothing is worse than holding back

2011-05-30T21:29:00.000+01:00

A friend of mine was invited to a gathering at the Himalayas Vegetarian Cafe and I just happened to tag along. In a social setting, I would naturally crawl in a shell and put my "smiley" face on but I was glad they were all so welcoming and accepting. I gradually felt the ease and when I saw a stack of tarot cards on a table, I believed that things were going to get interesting. When the man said "who wants to go first?", both of us did the usual point and "you go first!" move. I went second but that didn't stop us from learning what our true selves were saying to us.

For my first ever tarot card reading, I was truly amazed. The reading wasn't really about determining what my future will be because the future is always changing nor was it about material things. It was about being aware of my deep spiritual being and in what state I'm in. I couldn't fathom how my reading was so full of hope that I could have burst with joy when I left that gathering. Basically, he said that I have that God-given power in me that needs to be unleashed and to be shared. I have the self-knowledge and wisdom to pursue for the things that I need to know. I'm not quite sure about the full of wisdom part though. He mentioned a lot more, but those words really stuck to me. I felt quite enlightened after that and I'm pretty much determined to respond to that revelation.

After some tea, cookies, massages and music, we had to go. What a beautiful experience it has been to have met them.

deja brew

2011-05-28T04:58:00.000+01:00

Just as what the coffee cup just said, "enjoy"
*insert slupring noises here*

Deja Brew: The feeling that you've had this coffee before. ~Author Unknown

never knowing if there's solid ground below

2011-05-23T17:38:00.000+01:00

I've officially moved to another flat. It took a lot of muscles to move those luggages from one part of the neighborhood to another though. Good thing, the place was just a walk away. Just imagine my friends and I dragging baggages from the streets to the park and everywhere else. We saw a fox while we're at it too!haha I've only just stayed in my previous flat for 3 months and I had to move due to conflicting demands and some racial harassment.

I've moved in to a lovely flat with wonderful people in it. The first night was still the adjustment stage. On the second night, I was fully adjusted. My transition phase is that quick really. I have yet to really organize my things but as long as I have a roof over my head, that's all that matters.

literature calls me forward

2011-05-18T19:19:00.000+01:00

It's an amazing intellectual mind-percolating feat for me when I finish a book. And when I finished 3 books in 2 months that was another step up the notch for me. I aim to read about 4 books a month (1 book per week which would equate to about 52 books a year! Ooooohhhh.) . But with all the college work, actual work and then the internet, I would either be too tired or too distracted.

I'm so glad the libraries here in Edinburgh have this interconnected database system available online. I could just reserve a book and then collect it from my nearest library. When I attempted searching from their database, I was overwhelmed how they have it all. I couldn't stop searching all those classical literatures that I've always wanted to buy from a bookstore but I can't 'coz they were too expensive. Since it was too price-y to buy books, I eventually borrowed from libraries. My library card then gets worn out from the over-use. Oh the good times.

See how my real life is so exciting? Lalalala.

it feels like 14 carats but no clarity

2011-05-13T18:43:00.000+01:00

The metal barrier separating us from the scorching heat of 800 degrees Celsius gave us a glimpse of what cremation was like. I had to tip toe just so I can actually see the roaring fire swallowing up the body. I don't mean to sound insensitive but it was fascinating really. It reminded me of that last scene from Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. I almost hoped that someone would break into a musical right then and there.

Visiting a crematorium was unnerving but since it was part of our lecture, I shook off all the goosebumps. I also expected zombie-like people working in there but alas, they were normal beings who does really well in their job. By the way, there's a lot of science and math put into their work. The embalmer lady we met had her gruesome stories to share about the bodies she works on. The photo above is the make up she puts on the deceased to make them look presentable during their service. While the second photo is the cremated remains which will then be crushed to tiny bits to get to the actual 'ashes to ashes'.

It was an eye-opening experience. This had me contemplating all the way home. How chilling and empty it might be to live a life where you have not actually lived. Best to watch After.Life to know what I mean.

make bridges between people

2011-05-09T22:41:00.000+01:00

How Skype can break down the problems of distance and communication with just a video call or better yet a group video conference is astonishing. Despite the timezone differentiation from Scotland to Philippines to New York, it's always so worth it.

But then...
"Electric communication will never be a substitute for the face of someone who with their soul encourages another person to be brave and true." -Charles Dickens

01 calling mama to give her my love for Mother's Day.

02-03 awesome friends- Elys, Jacky, Jer

today i don't feel like doing anything

2011-05-07T00:08:00.000+01:00

Wearing a beanie is a perfect excuse 'coz I'm sometimes too lazy to wash my hair.
Dun dun dunnnn...

the grass is anything but green

2011-05-04T17:17:00.000+01:00

Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere. -Albert Einstein