Fleur-de-Lis

Arturo Rios Hat Art

2012-02-09T16:00:00.000Z

Hat art <3

Short Hair

2012-01-29T11:52:00.001Z

"with short hair you begin to crave pearl necklaces, long earrings, and a variety of sunglasses. and you brush your teeth more often. short hair removes obvious femininity and replaces it with style. when it starts growing out a little and losing its style, you have to wear sunglasses until you can get it to the hairdresser. that's why you need a variety. short hair makes you aware of subtraction as style. you can no longer wear puffed sleeves or ruffles; the neat is suddenly preferable to the fussy. you eye the tweezers instead of the blusher. what else can you take away? you can't hide behind short hair... you may look a little androgynous, a little unfinished, a little bare... but your face is no longer a flat screen surrounded by a curtain: the world sees you in three dimensions."

- joan juliet buck for american vogue, c.1988

{via The Glamourai]

Minuit à Coimbra

2012-01-14T01:42:00.000Z

Cole Porter - "Let's Do It"

*Back to blogging*

20's party at Café Santa Cruz

New Shoes

2011-07-17T11:28:00.001+01:00

New shoes from Marlboro. Birthday present :)

Poitiers

2011-06-30T14:16:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone! I'm really sorry for being away for so long but I've been seriously busy with work - And that's actually a good thing ^^

I'm at Poitiers - France, for two weeks, in a special set of Seminars about Medieval History. It's truly amazing, the city is gorgeous and I have already tried THE macarrons and THE croissants (not the escargots...). I'm very happy to share some photos with you and I hope you all love them and excuse me for being away from the blog :)

I hope you are all ok*

***

Between parchemins and seals

2011-05-24T17:15:00.000+01:00

Dear readers,

I'm sorry for my absence but I truly am filled with work..which actually is a good thing, right?

These images (from we[heart]it) are how my life looks right now, working with medieval seals, parchemins, and amazing imaginary.

I hope everyone is ok and I promisse I won't forget your gorgeous blogs and I'll visit you all asap ^^

***

Spring

2011-03-19T19:13:00.000Z

Hello everyone!

Spring is arriving to my garden...

So I've decided to share some inspiring photos of my flowers and fruit trees ^^

And Max being nosy!

***

Lello Bookshop

2011-03-15T15:41:00.000Z

Sigur Rós - "Hoppípolla"

Hi everyone! I know that posting only an article per week is not enough but, for now, that's all I can manage to do.. So, I hope these photos from Lello bookshop, that I've visited when I went to O'Porto two weeks ago can make it up for my latest absence. You can found all info about this amazing place online (and more images too), but the general opinion is that "Lello Bookshop is the world’s 3rd most beautiful bookshop". Built in 1906 by an engineering professor, Xavier Esteves, the building has an extraordinary architectural staircase and shelves packed with old and new books. Visiting this shop is a unique experience for everyone who loves books, art, heritage, culture and amazing architecture.

Oh, and for those who want a better look, here it is a 360º view ^^

Because I wasn't allowed to take more than 1 photo -.- (don't know why) and because it was completely full of people, these are the best photos I took while escaping the furious faces the manager was giving me. I hope you enjoy them and wish you all a great week*

Beauty tips {Part VII} - new products

2011-03-08T15:45:00.001Z

Hello everyone! I've prepared a different post than usual, to continue the previous beauty tips posts. I hope my tips are usefull and so you know, all of them are based on my own experience, so I have no comercial or advertising purposes.

I've told you several times how I prefer natural and homemade treatments, not only they don't have artificial components but also they tend to be a lot cheaper than anything you buy, plus, usually you can use the ingredients several times (like sugar, or lemons, perfect for exfoliating ^^)

But for today, I'm sharing some advise in terms of products I've recently acquired which I'm really fond of.

First of all, for the skin care:

I always wash my face with unscented glycerine soap without any chemical additives, that I buy in the pharmacy. You can feel that the skin is dry, but in fact is the best way to clean the face skin without the risk of any allergy.

After washing my face with this soap (and sometimes a aloe vera cleansing lotion by the body shop) I always use this Aloe Vera Soothing Moisture Lotion SPF 15 also by The Body Shop. Is also unscented and very smooth, so the skin doesn't get oily at all.

When it comes to epilation, I told you once about the threading technique. I try to do it as often I as need, but as you imagine is not always possible. So, I don't use epilation creams in the face because I often get allergic reactions to the chemicals, or even hot wax, because as you know, it can do serious damage to the sensitive and more fragile skin of the face. So, when it comes to face epilation (nobody likes a lady with a moustache), when threading is not possible, my mum found out this great chocolate wax, very smooth and not hot at all. So it's very simple to prepare at home (in the microwave) and to do it yourself without getting all red and with irritated skin. For the eyebrows, tweezers are the best option to keep them in shape.

When it comes to body epilation, I have to confess I was very skeptical about this product I'm presenting here. I've first saw it at Laura's blog (hey darling* ^^) and I was curious with her review, so I've decided do order it on their website. Everything Laura said was true. So I present you: Bluebeards Revenge. Quoting her words: ”From the first shave my legs were smoother than they had been in a long time, and re-growth seemed to be about 50 per cent slower than before.” Also, the fragrance is great, is so practical and it lasts for months! I've got mine by January and I still have more than half a bottle. In theory, shaving makes the hair thicker, so I've never done it before. With this product, I'm more than happy with the results and I honestly recomend it to everyone.

At last, my hair product tip is this New Nutri Keratin bath also with silicone. To use with wet hair, is very smooth and it smells like peach. The hair doesn't get oily at all and it's perfect for dry hair like mine. I must confess, to avoid allergies, I also use the unscented glycerine soap to wash my hair and then I apply this product. I very happy with the results and I never had any allergic reaction ever since. Plus, is a Brazilian product and they usually have great quality in their beauty and health products in general, often with very low prices.

As far as I've saw while writting this post, all products are easily found online, at Amazon or in the brand website (or at the pharmacy) and they are all cheap. For instance, I've paid only 3€ for this New Nutrice bottle and only 1,5€ for the soap. The BluebeardsRevenge was more expensive, 12£, but it lasts like 6months or more.

So, these are my tips for today, and I hope you've found them usefull!

***

Addiction

2011-02-22T16:32:00.000Z

Cliff Richard - "Move it"

Hello everyone! So...It's time for me to confess: I have an addiction. I don't smoke, I rarely drink, and I don't go shopping for clothes that often to call it an addiction. My problem is...

Amazon.com.uk.

Yes. I have to admit that since I found out the wonders of buying books on Amazon, it's a non-stop activity for me. So, allow me to explain. It's difficult for me to find good books about Heraldry, even more when they are no longer published. So, most of the books I need are only found online and imagine my "problem" when I find little treats which I can't find anywhere else, just for 4£ or so.. so, yes. It's an addiction, but at least a good one :)

Today I've received another great item. "Simple Heraldry" is the cutest book ever about Heraldry for everyone. A person who simply doesn't know anything about the subject, can easily understand the basic rules and principles. It's a book from the 50's, so obviously there are much more modern options..but this one is special for these unique illustrations. Funny, simple, cute, and full of colour. I bought this book for 0,50£..well, I have to say it's more than a bargain, don't you think?

***

P.S. I'll try to do an outfit post soon ^^

Rampant Lion

2011-02-07T14:29:00.001Z

Alter Bridge - "Make It Right"

Dear readers (if there are any ^^)

After two years of work I finally can share the good news! Last week I had my final presentation and got my Masters degree! It's such a relief to see the end of a process that also means the begining of a new path. It was a very important day to me so I have to thank to all the people that were there for me during this time, even when I thought couldn't do this. Thanks for all the motivation words, for reading my work a thousand times and for listening about heraldry and bishops and mitres and rampant lions and etc etc, for almost 2 years! Good news: there is so much more of this to come (hehe), so ok, I'm a Heraldry freak, but I'm happy for that :)

I hope you're all ok and I promisse I'll return properly to the blogosphere!

***

Photography after the Workshop

2011-01-30T17:52:00.000Z

Dear readers, these last weeks have been so hectic with work and traveling to Lisbon and Porto for professional and personal reasons (as you could see in the post related to my Grandma), that I almost forgot to even open the blog. I hope I have a little more time after wednesday to read your posts and comment :)

For now I leave you all this simple video with some photos I took for the previously mentioned photography workshop. I hope you like them. This workshop was really interesting and I have to say I've learned a lot, not only about technique (I only take photos in the manual mode now) but I've also learn to think more about photography and who I want to be as a photographer, even if it's in a amateur point of view ^^

Btw, if you are interested in having more info about the photographer who gave this workshop, Susana Paiva, or about photography in general, my advice to visit the portfolio project link, which is an educational platform, coordinated by Susana Paiva,and find out great images and much more for everyone with this passion for great photography*

Thank you all for the lovely comments and I'll try to update soon

***

Fernando Lemos

2011-01-18T14:17:00.000Z

David Fonseca - "Hold Still"

Through these next two weeks, I'm having a photography workshop which started last friday. Due to that, I've realized that I've never shared with you some of my favorite photographers. So, this post is dedicated to Fernando Lemos (José Fernandes de Lemos) a painter, sketching artist, photographer and poet, born in Lisbon in 1926. His surrealist inspiration, great technique and perfect aestethic sense, made his pieces some of the most inspiring work I've ever seen in photography.

***

Grandma Bela

2011-01-14T15:14:00.000Z

Billie Holiday - "I'll be seeing you"

Sometimes there is no better thing that find treasures which once belonged to our great-grandparents or close family. Yesterday me an my parents had to pick some of those treasures at my Grandma's home.. Now she's living with us and the other house has to be empty.

My Grandma has dementia and many times she can't even say a full sentence to me. I take care of her everyday and sometimes are easier than others. It can be very exhausting and frustrating, phisically and emotionally . It's been more than a year now that she is like that, but sometimes I look at her and I can have a glimpse of the sparkle she used to have in her eyes. I've spent many moments with her while I was growing up. She used to make me the most gorgeous dresses (including my baptism dress), as she used to be a milliner (I don't know if this name is correct - well, she made night gowns and dresses at an atelier).

She used to be kind, sweet, gentle and had many stories to tell me. Now I try to keep that memory with me, everytime I say her goodnight - and sometimes she answers me back :)

It's not easy I tell you, but it also gave me a new perspective of life and family, patience and perseverance. Don't think I never loose my patience with her, because I do! It can be hard when a person you love, in this condition, just doesn't know your name or just screams at you, but soon I remember that it's not necessary to be mad at her. She will always be my Grandma Bela and I love her no matter what.

So yesterday It was a very emotional experience and somehow it maked us travel in time. Yesterday I rambled through my dad's youth, my Grandparents wedding, my great-grandfather trips... And so I would like to share with you some of those little moments and treasures that i'll re-use from now on. From bags to delicate écharpes, gloves or the huge amount of forgotten photographs, primary school diplomas from my Grandma to her seweing machine from Singer...

Well, I hope you enjoy this as much as I do.

Wish you all a good weekend

***

Lucky Brand - Wishlist

2011-01-09T12:51:00.000Z

Air - "All I Need"

I've never been that kind of girl who wears tons of jewelry, and until recently, I wasn't very comfortable about wearing huge rings. Well, as you all know, that obviously changes when it comes to my cocktail rings.

So, about this post. I must confess I have never heard about this brand until last week, but then again, we can't just know everything. While I was reading the lovely Ilse's blog, I came across her most recently wishlist, and then I met the amazing Lucky Brand jewelry. Their rings are just perfect, amazing, gorgeous, victorian-like, with medieval resemblances, oh..whatever you want to call them..the point is: I was addicted to them the first moment I saw them on her blog and then on e-bay.

Since I obviously don't have the money to buy all ( or even one, for now ^^) of this precious tresures that I'll show you here, well, I just wanted to share them and dream for a bit :)

I hope you like them as much as I do and well, maybe someday I can purchase some of these (and feel like a fabulous medieval Lady) ;)

So, here they are, my favorites. Together I leave the links to the e-bay page of each one, so you can see other views of them all with more detail:

this Gemstone Ring, remindes me a great King's ring!

the Mega Emerald Ring

the Amethyst Ring

the Ojai Ring

the Star Power Ring

the 3 Piece Stack Rings

And this little treat, not from Lucky Brand, but a great ring anyway, this Fleur-de-Lis Ring ^^

Hope you are all having a great weekend!

***

Happy New Year & 2010 review

2010-12-31T14:35:00.000Z

Hello everyone! I know I know, I've been missing a lot here... I hope I have more time next week to take photos and share some traditional recipes with you :)

This post is all about the best things that happned to me this year, favorite movies, music and books, moments and lessons. I hope you all enjoy!

Favorite movies I've seen in 2010:

* An Education

* Ágora

* A single man

* The kids are all right

* The boat that rocked

* Easy Virtue

* Alice in Wonderland

* Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - part I

* Inception

...

And I'm sure there are many others I can't remember right now ^^

Favorite books in 2010:

I usually read a LOT but, as many of you know, this was the year I wrote my thesis, so obviously most of the books I read are and were about Heraldry and specific literature for my work.

Among many great authors, I loved the perspectives of Michel Pastoureau and Bruno Heim. These were my two favorite authors in terms of Heraldic investigation.

Also, I loved the latest Blake & Mortimer and Blacksad, again, two of the comic book collection I prefer the most.

Favorite moments/experiences in 2010:

* The macarons my cousins gave me,

* My Easter trip to the interior of my country,

* Writting my thesis,

* Get to know great and inspirational Heraldry investigators,

* Publish another scientific article,

* little moments with my parents, Charlie, Van, K., and João Pedro (apesar de estares no Brasil!) :)

* so many cooking experiences!

* So many great songs...

* etc, etc..

Bad moments in 2010:

* Losing Britt..

* Charlie's accident,

* Being sick so many times,

* Feeling frustrated with dead-ends in my investigation so many times,

* this complicated December.

In the end, I have to admit: I've learned a lot with the bad moments so they turned out to be life experiences that made me grow up a bit more. I've learned that people are not what they seem, I've learned to solve so many problems and turn them into something proactive and I've learned that life is just beautifull, even when everything looks bad. Life has good and bad years, but it's our obligation to turn the bad moments into lessons and turn obstacles into doors to new perspectives.

So, If you ask me if 2010 was a good year? I have to say yes. Although it wasn't easy. But who cares? I feel fortunate just to find the alternatives to turn everything better, and to smile everyday :)

*I wish you all a Happy New Year*

Merry Xmas

2010-12-24T13:07:00.001Z

Jamie Cullum - "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"

Hello everyone! These last few days escaped through my fingers so fast that only now I realize it's already the 24th of December. I'm so happy to tell you that everything is better, despite the total recovery still requires a bit more time. I was thinking about a more interesting post to share with you, with some decent photos, but I just haven't had any time, helping out here at home, gathering with some close friends (obrigada pela visita João Pedro ^^ e pelo breve almoço Van e K.) and help Charlie with some last minute Christmas shopping.

Also, I want to thank you once more for the lovely comments and e-mails with supportive messages through these more troubled times :)

With all these car trips and rides, carpooling and waiting for my parents I've actually re-discovered my passion for reading the newspaper. "Público" is my favorite, but I've also had time to update my Vogue readings. So, these are my not so interesting news. All I want is to wish you all a Merry Christmas, with happiness, peace, love, and share great moments with the ones we love.

I promise I'll do a better post soon and that I'll update my visits and comments to all of your great blogs :)

Merry Christmas

***

(all images via we[heart]it)

Xmas Wishlist

2010-12-02T11:13:00.002Z

Christmas Carols - Westminster Abbey Choir

Hello everyone! I can't believe is December already...and Christmas is just around the corner - just 3 weeks!

For me, this is much more than presents. My favorite moment is when we decorate our home and our huge tree, when the house smells like baked cookies, to feel the songs that my dad and I sing and whistle all day long like two maniac Christmas elfs...oh well, to feel life and happiness, feel the cold cheeks and warm feet, see the fireplace and watch movies in the sofa with a fluffy blanket.

The fact is, I only begin my Christmas celebrations in December, despite the decorations all over the place in the middle of October. It's ridiculous!Chrismas = December...the end.

So, now that it's definitely December, I thought I should make a wishlist of gorgeous things I've been seeing around.

You all know how much I love The Body Shop, so you can imagine how I much I loved their new "baked to last" makeup collection! They really baked the makeup so it can lasts for more than 8h! And the colors are amazing. My favorites are these two eyeshadows, nºs 1 and 2.

Then I saw this amazing gloss, very similar to the Chanel one I've been looking for. I believe this color is called "pale-pink" but i'm really not sure...

A more futil thing, but completely luxurious, is this spray shimmer. Doesn't it looks perfect? It's a shimmer that can be used on the body, face and hair, directly or mixed with some moisturizer cream. Hmm... Anyway, I don't think I would buy or even use this one very often, AND it's 19€...so it's just a precious thing to look at.

Apart from these items, I always love to get some more of that Shea shower cream, I've presented here before. Always usefull ^^

Then, I must confess, I must be the only person I know who really likes to receive socks for Christmas :) Mine are getting so old it's almost a shame to wear them.

Also, because I have an old person taste, I enjoy wearing socks like these:

And these:

Yes, I know I'm a bit weird about my socks taste :) Charlie sometimes says I already was born a Grandma!

The point is: Chunky knits are always welcome, and when it comes to sweaters or scarves, I prefer just one or two colors, and the simpler and neutral the best! Bottom line: cable knits, fisherman sweaters and chunky knitted turtlenecks are my thing...love love love ^^

Boring, I know. But that's how I like it. With a pair of skinny jeans or leggings, boots and a pair of gloves - for me it's just perfect to a casual winter outfit*

So, these are my passions and choices for this Christmas and winter in general. Despite that, the best Christmas gift is to be happy and healthy, have the ones we love at our side, and, if it's possible, find a job in Heraldry/ Art History and/or my PhD scholarship. Those are the things that really matter, right? In the end, It's all about family, love, friends, and see our work recognized and valued by our pairs.

Hope you're having a great week :)

***

Blog problems

2010-11-25T15:34:00.001Z

It looks that my blog needs urgent care. I don't know what happened but It looks hideous, so I'm working on it. I'm sorry and I'll try to do it asap*

.
..
...

(centuries later)

Ok, so I've tried to fix it the best I can... I hope you like this almost imposed blog makeover. I've tried to make it look clean and simple, so If you have suggestions, please feel free to say :)

Well...must confess it was time for a change anyway!
As we say here: "Há males que vêm por bem"
**

Chateau Brutal

2010-11-19T13:35:00.000Z

Hello again Ladies* Before the weekend I also wanted to share this video with all the non-portuguese readers. This is a recent portuguese advertise commercial (to a mobile phone promotion) that I really like...and you obviously know why :)

Hope you enjoy

***

Pitanga

2010-11-16T18:40:00.001Z

Sex and the City

"Created and produced in Portugal, this 100% national brand was born with the dream of aligning in perfect harmony the design and excellent finishing touches already associated with Pitanga products.

The brand’s complete image is defined by a casual chic spirit for women that are cosmopolitan, independent, and unassumingly feminine. Pitanga personifies the beauty of every woman in each creation, offering an elegant choice for city life where details make the difference."

I've already told you about my lovely cousin Manuela, who presented me to the wonderful world of macarons. What I haven't told yet, is that she is also in the fashion business. She modeled for many years and after graduating as a fashion designer, she is now the Criative Director of the amazing brand named Pitanga, at Lisbon. She designs not only the most cute and feminine shoes, but also bags, clutches, accessories and many other pieces revealing of a very elegant taste. I invite everyone to visit the website, also in English, and take a look at the pieces she already designed and some of the great reviews the brand is having on several magazines*

Here is a small sample of the collection, and for those who have Polyvore, check out Manuela's page :)

Hope you like it!

***

I know a country... / eu conheço um país...

2010-11-10T14:45:00.001Z

Orelha Negra - "A Cura"

Dear Readers,
The text that follows is not intended political propaganda or advertising. The intention here is based on an email I've received recently where some Portuguese have an idea of the national context in a positive way, contrary to the usual incessant criticism with negative and pessimistic arguments.
I am Portuguese and often do express my dissatisfaction with the current economic and political situation, which has hurt us all, especially (speaking for my context) in a cultural and educational level.
However, we should enhance and encourage a proactive thinking and make things really change. Intelligence manifests itself when we make others think by the power of words and I'm glad that these authors successfully listed some of the many things which make us proud of our country.
This blog is a personal space where I express my opinions without any advertising, political or religious purposes, and much more than fashion or photography, it is also about life, culture and society, yet, not as often as other subjects. For those who aren't Portuguese or/and never came here, well, I hope you get a good idea of this wonderful little land in the extreme point of Europe.
Here I leave this text and I hope you enjoy and take pride in Portugal where, according to my cousin Manuela, is also where are made the best macarons in the world :)
(btw, the song is a new portuguese project, hope you like ^^)

"- I know a country that has one of the lowest rates worldwide concerning mortality of newborns, rather than the EU average.

- I know a country which has established a company that is world leading in technology processors.
- I know a country that is a world leader in the production of felt for hats (I bet Joseph Beuys would like it ^ ^)
- I know a country that has a business that invents games for mobile phones and sells them to dozens of overseas markets.
- I know a country that has a company that devised a system whereby you can choose, on your phone, the movie theater to go to, where you want to see the movie and the chair where you sit down.

- I know a country that has a company that invented a biometric payment system at the gas pump.
- I know a country that has a company that invented a lightweight gas cylinder which has won international awards.
- I know a country that has one of the best ATM systems worldwide, enabling non-existent operations in Germany, Britain or the United States, for example.

- I know a country that has revolutionized the financial system and has three top five banks in Europe.
- I know a country that is very advanced research and production of energy through the ocean waves and wind.
- I know a country that has a company that analyzes the DNA of plants and animals and sends the results to those of the entire Europe.
- I know a country that has developed innovative management systems for customers and inventory, targeted at SMBs.
- I know a country that has many companies working for NASA and European Space Agency.

- I know a country that has developed a very convenient and practical way to pass the toll motorways.
- I know a country that invented and produces an anti-epileptic medication for the world market.
- I know a country that is a world leader in the production of cork.
- I know a country that produces one of the best wines in the world.
- I know a country that invented and developed the world's best system for pre-paid mobile phones.
- I know a country that built a set of excellent quality hotel projects throughout the world.
- I know a country that is second in broadband net in Europe.

- I know a country that has a capital with a fantastic cultural events that are as good as any city in the world. That has unlimited potential for tourism with restaurants for every budget and some delicious food, and lodging for all budgets and of reasonable quality.
- I know a country with a unique story that linked all the continents commercially like no others, in human history in the sixteenth century.

- I know a country that defeated his fellow Spain by force of will of a man called Nuno Alvares Pereira and allowing peace to the nation to embark on maritime discoveries.
- I know a country that is developing a drug that prevents and combats obesity.
- I know a country that produces the best shoes in the world.
- I know a country that produces the clothing used in Formula 1 and by NASA astronauts.
- I know a country that produces the best GPS software in the world.
- I know a country that makes the best lasers in the world, used in medicine and aerospace engeneering.

- I know a country that has a monument that has 6 organs, the only worldwide (Mafra Convent).
- I know a country that produces the props used by Hollywood film industry.
- I know a country that has the greatest variety of cuisine in the world.
- I know a country that created the unique color palette for color-blind reading.
The reader, possibly did not recognize this country ... PORTUGAL!

But it's true. All what you read above was made by companies founded by the Portuguese, developed by the Portuguese, led by the Portuguese, based in Portugal, will work with technical and Portuguese workers.

These companies are, for example: Efacec, Fepsa, Ydreams, Mobycomp, GALP, SIBS, BPI, BCP, Totta, BES, CGD, Stab Vida, Altitude Software, Out Systems, WeDo, Quinta do Monte d'Oiro, Brisa Space Services, Bial, Activespace Technologies, Deimos Engenharia, Lusospace, Skysoft, Portugal Telecom Inovação, Grupos Vila Galé, Amorim, Pestana, Porto Bay e BES Turismo.

There are still large multinational companies installed in Brazil, but led by the Portuguese, with Portuguese technicians, known for his success with the mother homes at Portugal as Siemens, Bosch, Vulcano, Alcatel, BP or even Portugal and Mc Donalds, who developed and perfected in Portugal a system to quantify the type and meals that are sold each and all outlets of the brand in the world.

This is the Country of success in that we also live in, but we just say that the country is bad, one who did not accompany progress. It is time to show the world our successes and be proud of that.Let's change our minds to help others.Let's take the first step and talk things positive and optimistic."

by Nicolau Santos, (also adapted by Luís Pirão and José Lopes)

Visit Portugal Website

Caros Leitores,

Este texto que se segue não tem como objectivo propaganda política ou publicidade. Pretende-se aqui, com base num e-mail que tem vindo a ser divulgado, fazer os Portugueses terem noção do contexto nacional de um modo positivo, contrário à usual e incessante crítica pessimista e negativa.
Sou portuguesa e também manifesto muitas vezes o meu descontentamento para com o panorama actual, o qual tem prejudicado todos nós, sobretudo (falando pelo meu contexto) a nível cultural e educacional.
No entanto, devemos incrementar e incentivar um pensamento proactivo e fazer com que as coisas realmente mudem. A inteligência manifesta-se quando conseguimos fazer os outros pensar pela força das palavras e por isso congratulo os autores desta lista que, com sucesso, enumeraram algumas das muitas coisas que nos fazem ter orgulho em ser Portugueses.
Este blog é um espaço pessoal, onde manifesto as minhas opiniões sem qualquer incentivo publicitário, político ou religioso e, muito mais do que moda ou fotografia, é também acerca da vida, da cultura e da sociedade, ainda que não tenha artigos desta índole com tanta frequência. Aqui deixo este texto, e espero que gostem e que tenham orgulho em Portugal, onde, de acordo com a minha prima Manuela, tembém se fazem os melhores macarons do mundo :)

"- Eu conheço um país que tem uma das mais baixas taxas de mortalidade mundial de recém-nascidos, melhor que a média da UE.

- Eu conheço um país onde tem sede uma empresa que é líder mundial de tecnologia de transformadores.

- Eu conheço um país que é líder mundial na produção de feltros para chapéus (Aposto que Joseph Beuys iria gostar ^^ )

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma empresa que inventa jogos para telemóveis e os vende no exterior para dezenas de mercados.

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma empresa que concebeu um sistema pelo qual você pode escolher, no seu telemóvel, a sala de cinema onde quer ir, o filme que quer ver e a cadeira onde se quer sentar.

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma empresa que inventou um sistema biométrico de pagamento nas bombas de gasolina.

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma empresa que inventou uma bilha de gás muito leve que já ganhou prémios internacionais.

- Eu conheço um país que tem um dos melhores sistemas de Multibanco a nível mundial, permitindo operações inexistentes na Alemanha, Inglaterra ou Estados Unidos, por exemplo.

- Eu conheço um país que revolucionou o sistema financeiro e tem três Bancos nos cinco primeiros da Europa.

- Eu conheço um país que está muito avançado na investigação e produção de energia através das ondas do mar e do vento.

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma empresa que analisa o ADN de plantas e animais e envia os resultados para os de toda a Europa.

- Eu conheço um país que desenvolveu sistemas de gestão inovadores de clientes e de stocks, dirigidos às PMES.

- Eu conheço um país que tem diversas empresas a trabalhar para a NASA e a Agência Espacial Europeia.

- Eu conheço um país que desenvolveu um sistema muito cómodo de passar nas portagens das auto-estradas.

- Eu conheço um país que inventou e produz um medicamento anti-epiléptico para o mercado mundial.

- Eu conheço um país que é líder mundial na produção de rolhas de cortiça.

- Eu conheço um país que produz um dos melhores vinhos do mundo.

- Eu conheço um país que inventou e desenvolveu o melhor sistema mundial de pagamento de pré-pagos para telemóveis.

- Eu conheço um país que construiu um conjunto de projectos hoteleiros de excelente qualidade pelo Mundo.

- Eu conheço um país que é segundo em net de banda larga na Europa.

- Eu conheço um país que tem uma capital com eventos culturais fantásticos que fazem frente a qualquer cidade do mundo. Que tem potencialidades turísticas ilimitadas com restaurantes para todas as carteiras e com comida deliciosa, assim como alojamento para todas as bolsas e de razoável qualidade.

- Eu conheço um país com uma história ímpar que ligou todos os continentes comercialmente como alguma vez havia sido feito na história da humanidade no século XVI.

- Eu conheço um país que venceu os seus compatriotas espanhóis pela força de vontade de um homem chamado Nuno Álvares Pereira e que permitiu a paz para a nação se lançar nos descobrimentos marítimos.

- Eu conheço um País que está a criar um medicamento que previne e combate a obesidade.

- Eu conheço um País que produz os melhores sapatos do mundo.

- Eu conheço um País que produz os fatos usados na Fórmula 1 e nos astronautas da NASA.

- Eu conheço um País que produz o melhor software de GPS do mundo.

- Eu conheço um País que faz os melhores lasers do mundo, utilizados na medicina e na indústria aeroespacial.

- Eu conheço um País que tem um monumento que tem 6 orgãos, sendo o único no mundo (Convento Mafra).

- Eu conheço um País que produz os adereços utilizados pela indústria cinematográfica de Hollywood.

- Eu conheço um País que tem a maior variedade gastronómica do mundo.

- Eu conheço um País que criou a única palete de cores para leitura de daltónicos.

O leitor, possivelmente, não reconheceu neste país aquele em que vive... PORTUGAL !!!

Mas é verdade. Tudo o que leu acima foi feito por empresas fundadas por portugueses, desenvolvidas por portugueses, dirigidas por portugueses, com sede em Portugal, que funcionam com técnicos e trabalhadores portugueses.

Chamam-se, por ordem, Efacec, Fepsa, Ydreams, Mobycomp, GALP, SIBS, BPI, BCP, Totta, BES, CGD, Stab Vida, Altitude Software, Out Systems, WeDo, Quinta do Monte d'Oiro, Brisa Space Services, Bial, Activespace Technologies, Deimos Engenharia, Lusospace, Skysoft, Portugal Telecom Inovação, Grupos Vila Galé, Amorim, Pestana, Porto Bay e BES Turismo.

Há ainda grandes empresas multinacionais instalada no País, mas dirigidas por portugueses, com técnicos portugueses, de reconhecido sucesso junto das casas mãe,como a Siemens Portugal, Bosch, Vulcano, Alcatel, BP. Portugal e a Mc Donalds (que desenvolveu e aperfeiçoou em Portugal um sistema que permite quantificar as refeições e tipo que são vendidas em cada e todos os estabelecimentos da cadeia em todo o mundo).

É este o País de sucesso em que também vivemos, mas nós só falamos do País que está mal, daquele que não acompanhou o progresso. É tempo de mostrarmos ao mundo os nossos sucessos e nos orgulharmos disso.Vamos mudar a nossa mentalidade para ajudarmos o nosso país que tanto precisa de nós, vamos dar o primeiro passo e falar coisas positivas e optimistas."

Nicolau Santos, Luís Pirão, e José Lopes

visitar portugal - website

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(all images by google)

modcloth love

2010-11-08T15:13:00.000Z

The Boat That Rocked Soundtrack- "Judy In Disguise"

Hello Ladies! Today I had a lovely comment by a new reader in the USA, Collette, the person behind the statements in fashion blog. Not only is a great blog, but she is also doing this amazing Giveaway related to ModCloth clothes. I don't know if many of you know the modcloth website, but in fact is a great online shop with vintage and retro related items. I was in love at first sight with so many pieces that I could only show a few here. It's great to dream for a while.

Living in my town, is often hard to find great vintage pieces, even more because until a few time ago, my style was more called "nerd" than in-fashion, well, that's not even important, we always should follow our own style no matter fashion statements. For me, those are only guidelines that we can incorporate in our own way of combine the outfit.

Anyway, with all of this I just wanted to share this amazing site - I think is a great opportunity to get all those vintage pieces we dream of, but that we can't find anywhere near. Lucky those who live in London and Paris :) Or well, maybe that's only a problem in Portugal, where everyone seems to find us "vintage lovers" weird ;)

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Walk in the Park

2010-10-25T16:09:00.002+01:00

Carla Bruni - "L'Amoureuse"

Hi Ladies* Some days before leaving to Lisbon, Charlie took me for a walk in our city, perfect to enjoy the autumn weather. We've visited the city park and we also went downtown for a cup of tea. It was perfect and I took many photos. Unfortunately some of them had some issues with the light in the park after the sunset, because it all became yellowish...well, I tried my best and I hope you like :)

Here are some details of Santa Cruz, a church I really like, also National Pantheon for our first two kings. The architecture is sublime and, although I don't have photos of the cloister and interior of the monument, I promise I'll do so once I can take proper photos as this monument deserves.

Also, just in the side of this church, there is a really amazing coffeeshop, from the XIXth century, with Manueline style revivalism, that can be observed in the magnificent details in the photos ^^

So, as I've told you...yellow... sorry for the bad photos, maybe I can take some more during the day so you can see the park as beautiful as it is. Also known as the City Park (Parque da Cidade), the real name is actually Manuel Braga Park, and it was planned in the 1920s. It's a very romantic and inspirational place to visit.

Going crazy with the leaves on the ground...

I'm back in town with lots of work to do, but I'm feeling optimistic and energetic with ideas and projects in my mind, so, I leave with a great smile and wish you all a great Monday :)

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Water

2010-10-15T12:26:00.000+01:00

Blog Action Day

Blog Action Day is an annual event that unites the world's bloggers in posting about the same issue on the same day. The aim is to raise awareness and trigger a global discussion around an important issue that impacts us all.

" First and last, the purpose of Blog Action Day is to create a discussion. We ask bloggers to take a single day out of their schedule and focus it on an important issue. By doing so on the same day, the blogging community effectively changes the conversation on the web and focuses audiences around the globe on that issue. Out of this discussion naturally flow ideas, advice, plans, and action. This year, with the theme of Water, we are eager to shed light on this often-overlooked topic. "

So, no matter if your blog is about food, fashion, photography, poetry... Today, we should all think about the importance of this element in our lives and how can we help the ones in need having healthy water resources. How can we save water in our everyday life, with so many little gestures.

Let's stop and think about the beauty of water, about its importance, not only to our comfort but to the environment, to keep the balance.

Water has always been an inspiration to many people, artists, musicians, but in fact, it's an inspiration to every single one of us. Water is life and everyone should have access to it, not by priviledge, but by their own right.

Let's stop, and think about this for a while

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(all images from we[heart]it)