Followers

Follow on Bloglovin

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Gallimaufry#138

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
Meet Panko, Son#2's Pomeranian
Saw this on FB, and it reminded me of my neighbours from hell. 😂
Ever wondered if there’s a world record for vacuuming? My OCD neighbors seem to be in constant training for it, turning their home into a non-stop cleaning marathon. 

DINNER - mini bowls
Bai Wei Mini Bowl is a popular restaurant chain known for its small, flavorful bowls of Chinese comfort food. The restaurant focuses on serving a variety of mini-sized bowls that allow customers to sample a range of dishes in one meal.

Menu items typically include a mix of traditional and modern Chinese dishes such as noodles, rice, soups, and various toppings. The concept is to offer a diverse selection of flavors in smaller portions, which is perfect for those who enjoy tasting multiple dishes or prefer lighter meals.





Gunung Lang, Malaysia
Shinrin-yoku, or "forest bathing," is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in nature to promote physical and mental well-being. It is not about exercise or hiking, but rather about being present in the natural environment and engaging all the senses to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest.

The concept originated in Japan in the 1980s as a form of eco-therapy, encouraging people to slow down and reconnect with nature to reduce stress and improve overall health. Scientific studies have shown that shinrin-yoku can lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone), and enhance mood and cognitive function. By taking the time to mindfully walk through forests, observe the natural surroundings, and breathe in the fresh air, individuals can experience a profound sense of calm and relaxation, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

Finding peace among the trees
I always have a fascination for stained glass, especially in holy places. The way it transforms ordinary light into a kaleidoscope of colors and stories captivates me. Each pane, meticulously crafted with intricate details and vibrant hues, seems to breathe life into sacred spaces, filling them with a divine glow. Whether it’s the resplendent rose window of a cathedral or the intimate tableau in a humble chapel, stained glass weaves a tapestry of wonder. Its luminous language speaks of faith, beauty, and the sacred mysteries that echo across centuries. Within those hallowed walls, I find solace—a seeker bathed in iridescent grace. 

Salisbury Cathedral


                                          
Cologne Cathedral


In the quiet corners of a cathedral, bathed in the glow of stained glass, mice are busy with ecclesiastical activities...

Choir practice
Some say it's the acoustics, others the enchantment of the cathedral's ancient stones, but those who have heard these diminutive choristers unanimously agree: no choir can match the celestial melodies of the Mouse Choir of Salisbury Cathedral.

Church cleaning
Bible Study
Note: These images are intended to be light-hearted and whimsical, inspired by the saying "As poor as a church mouse." They are created with the utmost respect for all cultures and religions and are not meant to offend anyone. The goal is to bring a smile and share the charm of these adorable AI-generated mice engaging in various activities.

#AIart #GenerativeArt #NeuralNetworkArt #ComputerGenerated #AlgorithmicVisuals #DigitalCreativity #MachineLearningArt #SyntheticIllustrations #AutomatedDesign #CreativeAlgorithms #AIEnhancedGraphics #AlgorithmDrivenArt #DigitalGenerativeArt #AIGeneratedGraphics #ComputationalCreativity #CreativeCodingArt #DeepLearningImagery #VirtualArtwork #CreativeAI #ArtificialIntelligenceArt

Friday, July 26, 2024

Gallimaufry#137

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
Dove made of stones
Lunch - Teochew congee
Teochew congee, distinct from the typical Cantonese-style congee, offers a unique approach to rice porridge with its lighter and broth-like consistency. Unlike the creamy and thick texture of traditional congee, Teochew congee features whole rice grains suspended in a clear, flavorful broth, creating a soupier texture where the grains remain firm. This variant is prepared by boiling rice with a generous amount of water for a shorter duration, preserving the grains' shape and bite. 

FROM THE TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Yellow taxis in Athens

HOLLYWOOD

In high school, our English class was often a blend of mundane grammar lessons and literary analysis. However, there were occasional moments that broke the monotony, sparking our imaginations and transporting us to places we could only dream of. One such moment was when our English teacher asked a student, one of the lucky few who had just returned from a trip to the United States, to read her essay about her recent adventures.

We sat at our desks, a mix of curiosity and envy swirling within us. Travel overseas was a luxury afforded only to the wealthier students, and for most of us, the idea of boarding an international flight seemed as distant as the moon. The United States, with its sprawling cities and cultural landmarks, was a land we knew only through the lens of Hollywood films and TV shows.

As she began to read, her words painted vivid pictures in our minds. She described the towering skyscrapers of New York City, the bustling streets filled with yellow taxis, and the serene beauty of Central Park. But what truly captivated us was her account of visiting Hollywood.

Hollywood. The name alone conjured images of glamour and stardom. For us, a visit to Hollywood was the ultimate bucket list item, a dream nurtured by countless hours spent watching movies. It was the land of movie stars, red carpets, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She described walking down the boulevard, seeing the names of legendary actors immortalized in the sidewalk, and posing for a photo in front of the famous Hollywood sign perched on the hills. Each sentence she read heightened our longing, making us yearn to experience it all firsthand.

 Listening to her essay, we felt a mix of emotions. There was a tinge of envy, yes, but also a shared awe of her experiences. Her words transported us from our classroom to the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles, allowing us to live vicariously through her adventures. It was a reminder of the vast world beyond our small town, filled with possibilities and wonders waiting to be explored.

For a brief period, our classroom transformed into a gateway to the world, and we left with hearts full of wanderlust, each of us secretly hoping that one day, we too might stand beneath the glimmering lights of Hollywood.

Fast forward to 1990, and that long-held dream finally became my reality. I found myself in Los Angeles, walking down the very streets I had imagined so vividly years ago. The winter sun cast a gentle light, offering a pleasant warmth amidst the cooler air. As I strolled along Hollywood Boulevard, my heart raced with excitement. I took in the sights and sounds, the bustling crowds, and the street performers adding to the lively atmosphere.

Then, it happened. I stopped in my tracks and looked down. There, gleaming under the Californian sun, was a star with the name John Travolta. I could hardly believe my eyes. This was the man who had danced his way into our hearts in "Saturday Night Fever" and "Grease," whose movies had been a staple of my youth. Standing there, I felt a rush of emotions—joy, nostalgia, and a profound sense of accomplishment. It was as if I had stepped into a movie myself, one that had been playing in my mind since that day in English class.

I stood there for a moment, soaking in the significance of it all. The years of dreaming, the stories we shared, and the endless daydreams had led me to this point. I realized then that dreams do come true, sometimes in the most spectacular ways. As I continued my walk, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that somewhere, my high school self was beaming with pride and disbelief.

Hollywood had once been a far-off fantasy, but now it was a tangible reality. And in that moment, standing in front of John Travolta's star, I felt like anything was possible.

Mann's Chinese Theater

The Chinese Theatre, originally known as Grauman's Chinese Theatre, has a rich history marked by several name changes reflecting its ownership and branding over the decades.

Grauman's Chinese Theatre was opened on May 18, 1927, by showman Sid Grauman, who also built the nearby Egyptian Theatre. It quickly became famous for its opulent design, inspired by Chinese architecture, and for hosting high-profile movie premieres.

In 1973, the theatre was sold to the Mann Theatres chain and was subsequently renamed Mann's Chinese Theatre. This period saw the continuation of its tradition of hosting major film premieres and events.

In 2000, the theatre reverted to its original name, Grauman's Chinese Theatre, when the partnership between Mann Theatres and the original owners was reestablished.

In 2011, the theatre underwent another rebranding when TCL, a Chinese electronics company, acquired naming rights. It is now known as TCL Chinese Theatre. This partnership brought significant renovations, including the installation of an IMAX auditorium, making it one of the most technologically advanced theatres in the world while preserving its historic charm.

FLAKE 99

At 62, with so many unchecked items on my bucket list, I sometimes wonder if some things can only be experienced once in a lifetime and never again. Take, for example, the simple pleasure of a Flake 99 ice cream in London. I remember that autumn day so vividly, the grey and hazy London sky, the gentle breeze carrying the laughter of children playing nearby. I was standing by the Tower Bridge, enjoying the soft serve ice cream, creamy and cold, with the signature Flake chocolate bar nestled on top. It brought an inexplicable joy, a fleeting moment of pure bliss

Now, years later, as I reflect on that memory, a pang of melancholy washes over me. The places I long to revisit seem farther away, not just in distance but in time. I find myself haunted by the idea that some experiences are singular, unique in their occurrence, never to be replicated again. The list of things I hoped to do grows longer, while the days left to do them grow shorter. And I wonder, with a heavy heart, if perhaps the true beauty of those moments lies in their impermanence, in the bittersweet reality that they can never be fully recaptured, only cherished in memory.

The thought that I may never visit London again and savour a Flake 99 fills me with deep sadness. The city that held so many firsts and unforgettable experiences now feels like a distant, unreachable dream. It is this realization that makes those memories all the more precious and painful, knowing they may remain just that—memories, never to be relived.




There are many theories as to how the 99 got its name.

Here's an extract from BBC NEWS.

The ice cream in question has gone by that name since 1930, when Cadbury's launched a shorter version of its Flake bar - called a Flake 99 - for the ice cream trade.

Which does rather seem to blow one theory - that the bar is exactly 99mm long - out of the water. The UK is only now edging towards metrification - 70-odd years ago, everything was in imperial measures.

Ditto the suggestion that back in the day they cost 99p. True in the 1990s, but in 1930, nothing cost 99p - it was pre-decimalisation, remember.

Another theory goes that the initials of ice cream are IC, which is one way to write 99 in Roman numerals. But the convention is to write it XCIX - but it's possible this was ignored or not known.

Found this in Cadbury's FAQs
In the days of the monarchy in Italy the King has a specially chosen guard consisting of 99 men, and subsequently anything really special or first class was known as "99" - and that his how "99" Flake came by its name.

#AIart #GenerativeArt #NeuralNetworkArt #ComputerGenerated #AlgorithmicVisuals #DigitalCreativity #MachineLearningArt #SyntheticIllustrations #AutomatedDesign #CreativeAlgorithms #AIEnhancedGraphics #AlgorithmDrivenArt #DigitalGenerativeArt #AIGeneratedGraphics #ComputationalCreativity #CreativeCodingArt #DeepLearningImagery #VirtualArtwork #CreativeAI #ArtificialIntelligenceArt

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Gallimaufry#136

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸
Maneki-neko
The Japanese lucky waving cat, known as "Maneki-neko", is a popular figurine believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owner. The term "Maneki-neko" translates to "beckoning cat" in English, and these charming statues are commonly found on counters in businesses, shops, and restaurants.

Origin and Significance

The Maneki-neko has its origins in Japan, dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). According to legend, a poor temple priest took in a stray cat and cared for it despite his meager means. One day, while the priest was praying, the cat raised its paw, seemingly beckoning to a passing samurai. Curious, the samurai approached and, at that moment, a lightning bolt struck the spot where he had been standing. Grateful for the cat's intervention, the samurai became a benefactor of the temple, bringing it prosperity. Thus, the Maneki-neko came to symbolize good fortune and protection.

Design and Symbolism

Maneki-neko figurines come in various designs, each with specific meanings:

  • Raised Paw: The cat's raised paw is interpreted as a welcoming gesture, inviting good luck and customers. A raised left paw is thought to attract customers, while a raised right paw is believed to attract wealth and prosperity.
  • Color: Different colors of Maneki-neko represent various types of good fortune:
    • White: Purity and happiness.
    • Gold: Wealth and prosperity.
    • Black: Protection from evil spirits.
    • Red: Health and protection from illness.
    • Pink: Love and romance.
  • Accessories: Often, Maneki-neko are adorned with a collar, bib, and bell. These were traditionally worn by wealthy cats in the Edo period. Some also hold a koban (a gold coin) which represents wealth.

Placement

Maneki-neko are often placed near the entrance of businesses to welcome customers and bring good fortune to the establishment. The figurines may also be found in homes, where they are believed to bring general good luck and prosperity to the household.

Cultural Impact

Beyond their practical use, Maneki-neko have become a cultural icon, symbolizing good luck and a positive outlook. They have been embraced not only in Japan but around the world, appearing in various forms such as keychains, piggy banks, and even as motifs in popular culture.

In essence, the Maneki-neko is more than just a decorative item; it is a beloved symbol of hope, fortune, and protection, embodying a piece of Japanese tradition and folklore.


Dinner - seafood paella

FROM THE TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Cinque Terre
One of the most enchanting sights in Cinque Terre is the laundry hanging out to dry. Strung across balconies and between buildings, the brightly colored clothes flutter in the gentle sea breeze, adding to the quaint and rustic allure of the villages.

Let my AI mice bring this charming village to life on my canvas.

Clothes sway gently in the salty breeze, drying under the warm Italian sun. It’s a snapshot of everyday life, where time slows down, and the world feels cozy and inviting.

Amsterdam
In a country where there are more bicycles than people or cars, mice can often be seen riding tiny bikes themselves, pedaling through miniature bike lanes alongside their human counterparts

Remember the Flying Dress phenomenon I shared on Gallimaufry#119?
image source - SantoriniDress
This delightful trend began on the sun-kissed Greek island of Santorini, where azure skies, white walls, and flowing dresses blend seamlessly. The undisputed queen of these ethereal photos is Evgenia Volokitina, who founded SantoriniDress with her husband Kirill Babenkov in 2016. Their vision? To capture the essence of elegance and freedom as dresses dance in the wind. Since then, this trend has spread to other tourist hotspots like Dubai, Tulum, and Italy.

Against the backdrop of Santorini's iconic blue domes and pristine whitewashed architecture, the Santorini flying dress pose has become a coveted item on many Instagrammers' bucket lists, mice included.

#AIart #GenerativeArt #NeuralNetworkArt #ComputerGenerated #AlgorithmicVisuals #DigitalCreativity #MachineLearningArt #SyntheticIllustrations #AutomatedDesign #CreativeAlgorithms #AIEnhancedGraphics #AlgorithmDrivenArt #DigitalGenerativeArt #AIGeneratedGraphics #ComputationalCreativity #CreativeCodingArt #DeepLearningImagery #VirtualArtwork #CreativeAI #ArtificialIntelligenceArt