Live Life and Love

Making a Bitter Gourd Crocodile

By livelifeandlove on June 30, 2026

During my visit to the vegetable garden, I discovered that bitter gourd was plentiful, climbing across all the trellises and wires. There was more than enough for my cooking and an idea struck me to create a vegetable craft art piece in the form of a bitter gourd crocodile to utilize it. I took my time selecting the best form.

Bitter Gourd Crocodile is a delightful form of vegetable art specifically a popular vegetable carving craft that transforms bitter gourd into a crocodile. The uneven, rough texture and elongated shape of the bitter gourd serve as an ideal natural canvas for depicting a reptile. This is not the first occasion on which I have engaged in vegetable crafts transforming them into animal shapes. Previously, I have also successfully created fruit carvings, such as pineapple boats and bowls, watermelon and melon salad bowls, fruit farm landscapes, beautiful mini fashion dresses, bicycles, Pequin eggplants and many more. I typically pursue this activity during my free time at home particularly while waiting for my beef to cook until tender.

Materials required to make a Bitter Gourd Crocodile:

A long green bitter gourd; I selected a firm, elongated one to facilitate the crocodile shape. A small, sharp paring knife, which I have previously used for my fruit carvings. A small chopping board. A toothpick to keep the mouth open, and instead of using peppercorns, I opted for an old transparent button with a black line around the edge to resemble the eyes of a crocodile. That’s all you need.

I selected the finest gourds to ensure they were suitable for the tail and body. The elongated one was perfect for the tail, while the rounder ones were excellent for shaping the body.The shape was ideal for mimicking a crocodile’s skin and size.

This is the result of my vegetable art crafts, although it does not perfectly resemble a crocodile.

The bitter gourd plant is where I harvested everything needed to create this vegetable crocodile art. It thrived directly under the sunlight.

Creating this type of carved art was a fantastic idea for the day.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Singapore Cable Car – Mount Faber to Sentosa Island

By livelifeandlove on June 25, 2026

The Singapore cable car provides an exceptional opportunity to experience a bird’s-eye view of the city, soaring 100 meters above the ground and offering a stunning 360-degree panorama of Mount Faber, the harbor, the verdant landscapes and beaches of Sentosa Island. Our cable car experience started at the peak of Mount Faber and proceeded to the Sentosa station. The two interconnected lines provided us with a fun and enjoyable way to explore. It is an excellent way to observe the tropical jungle canopy and sandy beaches from an elevated perspective.

I was enjoying the ride and capturing beautiful photographs as we traveled around. I had such a great time capturing these moments. Check out these stunning photos I snapped while inside the cable car!

Singapore Cable Car

View of the HarbourFront Cruise Bay

The Siloso Beach is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, and it’s home to some of the best bars and restaurants. Even though it was really hot at the time, it made me want to experience the beach.

We were greeted with a breathtaking view of Palawan beach in the distance, making the journey even more enjoyable.

From our cable car, you can easily see the Adventure Cove waterpark.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Mount Faber Line is the stunning view of the rainforest, connecting mainland Singapore to Mount Faber. The ride was smooth and peaceful, and I loved every moment of it as I took in the stunning panoramic views from beginning to end.

I will return to Singapore this August and November, and I am confident that I will enjoy even more attractions, food, and everything else that Singapore has to offer.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

Goodnight

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Fashion/ Health/ Beauty | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Recipes for busy moms/Fruits/Desserts/Salad/Decorative Ideas

Good Dieting/Healthy Eating Approach

By livelifeandlove on June 13, 2026

Currently, numerous health issues are emerging. Some individuals refer to these as natural changes associated with aging, while others categorize them as deficiency diseases, advocating that proper nutrition is the most effective treatment. This underscores the necessity for us to be fully conscious of our dietary choices and to adhere to healthy food guidelines.

It is quite alarming to learn about the exorbitant costs and lengthy durations of certain treatments therefore, I make a concerted effort to limit my selections even when they are my favorites. I aim to ensure that the alarming health concerns currently prevalent do not affect me. It is crucial to distinguish between what I truly require and what I do not; for instance, monitoring my intake of proteins, fats, and sugars, as many tend to shun sweet desserts due to the unhealthy nature of sugary and dairy products.

Diet Sharing

This is a test to steer clear of fatty and sugary foods. Simply eat within reasonable limits. When it comes to meat, moderation is key, as consuming too much can be hard on digestion. If you come across new recipes, feel free to try a few, but having a variety of food preparations is preferable.
To lead a healthy lifestyle, I recommend focusing on low-calorie foods, which have no strict intake limits, allowing you to choose and eat freely.
It is advisable to limit foods high in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and sodium. Additionally, diets that consist of large amounts of highly processed foods, which often have high levels of sodium, sugar, or unhealthy fats, are associated with negative health outcomes.
It is essential to remember that free sugars and sodium form the basis of a healthy diet.
My dietitian consistently reminds me to maintain a minimum of 1,200 calories each day, as this is my daily threshold. Starting and ending your meals with low-calorie options is equally beneficial.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Photographers Corner | Travel and Adventure

The Ultimate Cebu Bucket List: 12 Most Beautiful Attractions You Must Visit

By livelifeandlove on June 8, 2026

Cebu, often referred to as the “Queen City of the South” the Philippines oldest Spanish settlement and serves as a hub for commerce and tourism. With its historic landmarks and modern urban development, it is becoming increasingly popular among tourists due to its breathtaking waterfalls and a remarkable combination of world-class beaches, striking geological formations and housing the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country. For those travelling through the Philippines, Cebu ranks among the top 10 tourist destinations that should definitely be on your bucket list.I am not new to this place, this is my fifth visit to Cebu. However, each time I come, I discovered something new and it is becoming increasingly progressive as well.

I have countless unforgettable experiences that I am thrilled to share, highlighting all the stunning attractions I have visited. From exploring the pristine tortoise waterfalls of Kawasan and thrilling outdoor activities, to basking on the sun-drenched white beaches of the Sumilon sandbar, and even witnessing the vibrant celosia flowers blooming against a serene mountain backdrop of Sirao garden, I have also enjoyed peaceful meditation in a Taoist temple, to marveling at the grandeur of Roman and Greek architecture at the Temple of Leah and taking in the 360° panoramic view from the Tops observation deck overlooking Cebu City. Additionally, the tranquil experience of underwater free diving, swimming alongside majestic sea turtles, and the immense joy of swimming with millions of sardines during the Moalboal Sardine Run, as well as the breathtaking experience of swimming with whale sharks in Oslob have all contributed to my love for this place.

Here are the stunning tourist attractions in Cebu that you will soon experience,an unforgettable adventure awaits!

1. Kawasan Falls & Canyoneering Badian provides an exhilarating outdoor experience along the Kanlaob River in Badian, Cebu, known for its Gatorade blue waters that originate from an underground mountain spring. The entire activity lasts between 4 to 5 hours from beginning to end. The adventure commences with a walk into the lush tropical jungle. You will get to enjoy thrilling activities such as trekking, swimming, sliding, and optional cliff jumps as you make your way through a picturesque limestone gorge. The experience ends at the breathtaking, vibrant turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls.This is the most exciting adventure I had this summer. It was genuinely unique, featuring various activities all in one limestone gorge. For adventure enthusiasts, this is definitely for you.

2. Moalboal Sardines Run, you will encounter a destination renowned for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. You can snorkel just a short distance from the shore to witness the renowned sardine run and swim alongside sea turtles. My initial experience of seeing millions of sardines with my own eyes was unforgettable, as I swam alongside the majestic giant sea turtles.

3. Oslob is a coastal town located at the southern end of Cebu, Philippines, famous globally for its reliable, year-round whale shark sightings in the small barangay of Tan-awan. It was my first experience swimming with whale sharks. The whale shark activity includes swimming, snorkeling, or free diving next to these gentle giants in their natural environment. I woke up at 3 AM to prepare for the trip, aiming to arrive in Oslob by 5 AM, before the cutoff time of 12:00.

4. Sirao Garden situated in the picturesque highlands of Philippines, a lovely floral haven commonly referred to as the ‘‘Amsterdam of Cebu”. Renowned for its vivid celosia flowers and decor inspired by European aesthetics, it serves as a favored spot for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers.

5. The Temple of Leah is an impressive monument inspired by Roman architecture, located in Busay, Cebu City. It was commissioned in 2012 by businessman Teodorico Adarna as a tribute to his late wife, Leah. The temple boasts expansive staircases, brass statues, a museum, and stunning views of the city. Situated on the hills of Cebu City, the Temple of Leah overlooks the sprawling city and the beautiful mountains. It serves as a symbol of everlasting love and commitment. Often referred to as the ‘Taj Mahal of the Philippines,’ this remarkable structure is more than just a temple, it’s a magnificent expression of love that stands the test of time.

6. TOPS Cebu is a distinguished five-story skyline complex situated in the mountains of Busay. Elevated 2,000 feet above sea level, it provides stunning panoramic vistas of Metro Cebu and the adjacent sea. The complex boasts award-winning architecture, the renowned viewing arches and more than 20 varied dining and lifestyle choices. What a truly magnificent view of Cebu! It is here that we enjoyed our lunch at the elevated restaurant above. The scenery from Tops was incredibly stunning, and the fresh air in that location inspires one to explore for photography opportunities.

7. Cebu Taoist Temple entrance is a miniature version of the Great Wall of China, showcasing pagoda-style roofs, dragon sculptures, and vividly painted prayer halls. It serves as a vibrant place of worship, celebrated for its classic architecture and panoramic views of the city. Cebu Taoist Temple is a tranquil, multi-level sanctuary situated 110 meters above sea level in the affluent Beverly Hills neighborhood of Lahug. This temple was the last attraction we checked out during our trip to Cebu.

8. Magellan’s Cross is an important historical and religious site situated in Cebu City representing the inception of Christianity in the nation. It was planted by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan on April 21, 1521, and serves as a symbol of the Spanish expedition’s arrival and the baptism of the early leaders of Cebu.

9. The Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, located in the heart of Cebu City. It houses the miraculous, canonically crowned image of the Child Jesus, originally gifted by Ferdinand Magellan to Rajah Humabon’s wife in 1521.

10. Tumalog Falls is a stunning, ethereal waterfall situated in Oslob, Cebu. Renowned for its soft, draping waterfall that flows over a large moss-covered rock cliff, the surroundings are filled with vibrant bamboo and age-old trees, creating a peaceful and highly esteemed location. The surroundings were stunning, and I thoroughly enjoyed capturing pictures here, resulting in some of my best photos.

11. Sanctuary Castle/ Simala Shrine Situated in Sibonga, Cebu known as the Simala Shrine officially called the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist. This extraordinary, castle-like Catholic pilgrimage destination is home to the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, attracting thousands of worshippers in search of spiritual comfort, healing, and divine assistance

12. IL Corso Filinvest Malls is a prominent, resort-style coastal lifestyle mall located at the South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu City. It seamlessly blends shopping and dining experiences with stunning sea views and spacious, airy surroundings.

I can confidently assert that Cebu is a paradise that never fails to leave me in awe, consistently leaves me speechless. You might also wish to have the same experiences that I had there. If you are a thrill seeker in search of a connection with nature, Cebu is the ideal destination for you to discover which will surely meet your expectations. Be sure to include Cebu in your bucket list.

This isn’t the conclusion of my Cebu adventure. I plan to create individual blog posts for each tourist destination. This way, I can fully showcase the beauty of these tropical locations, focusing on specific details and the best spots for photography.

Thank you fellas for taking the time to read my blog! Goodnight everyone!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Photographers Corner | Travel and Adventure

Nature’s Masterpiece:Chocolate Hills of Bohol

By livelifeandlove on June 2, 2026

This summer, I seized the opportunity to visit Bohol once again and as always , I never skip the must-see spots, I made sure to experience the highlights of the day which included a trip to the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary. We headed to the Chocolate Hills first, the sun was blazing and the heat was intense but we still made our way up to the viewing platform to get a clear panoramic view of the hills. It was a true taste of nature and a delightful chocolate experience.

The Chocolate Hills are a stunning geological structure located in Bohol often referred to as the Giant Truffles of the Philippines distinguished by their smooth, uniformly shaped conical structures.They are the third National Geological Monument in the country. Acknowledged as a national geological monument, it is regarded as one of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines. They bear a striking resemblance to the shape of Hershey’s kisses chocolates. I really wish those hills were made of real chocolate.

Chocolate Hills

Why they are called Chocolate Hills

The reason for the name Chocolate Hills is due to their unique appearance. Based on my research, the development of the conical hills began approximately one million years ago when the limestone platform rose from the ocean and became terrestrial land. The limestone displayed fractures or joints in a rectangular configuration and it was through these weak points that rainwater and streams started to erode the limestone sculpting it into the evenly spaced haystack or cone-shaped hills we see today.

Ascending a concrete staircase, the ascent comprises roughly 220 steps leading to the primary observation deck, which provides panoramic 360-degree vistas of the surrounding hills.

Blanketed in lush green grass that transforms into a chocolate brown during the summer months. The natural geological formations created by Mother Nature in Bohol. There are over 1,260 hills scattered across more than 50 square kilometers.

In this photo, one can see the viewing deck from the left perspective, the ample viewing platform offered a refreshing breeze. It was quite pleasant and breezy at that elevation allowing us to relish the full panoramic vista of the hills.

Where is Chocolate hills located?

The nearest towns to them are Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan but the main viewing complex situated in Town of Carmen. Bohol, Philippines

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog! Goodnight!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Photographers Corner | Travel and Adventure

Paradise Found: Sumilon Island Sandbar

By livelifeandlove on May 28, 2026

In the Philippines, during the summer months from March to May, nearly everyone seeks a getaway destination to explore. There are numerous beautiful tropical island destinations to select from. Having already completed our getaway to places such as Coron, El Nido, Puerto Princesa, and Boracay, we decided to try another getaway destination for a new experience. This time, our top choice is Cebu and Bohol. So, here we go!

Initially, I considered traveling to the Maldives and the tropical islands of Bali; however, I have decided to first explore what my own country has to offer. It is preferable for me to discover all the beautiful islands within my homeland before venturing elsewhere. You may not realize that the tropical island paradise in my own country could potentially surpass those found in other locations. Our first adventure exploring the islands kicked off in Cebu. After that, we hopped on the Ocean Jet, sailing away from Cebu and heading towards Bohol to keep the adventure going.

Since our trip is a day tour, the van picked us up and took us to Oslob. From there, a boat transported us to our paradise island destination, the Sumilon sandbar. The enchanting experience of island hopping at the Sumilon sandbar! There is an abundance of beauty awaiting discovery.

Sumilon Sandbar is the most stunning tropical paradise I have experienced this March. The beach features powdery white sand and crystal-clear electric blue waters. This is the reason why numerous tourists flock to Cebu, establishing it as a favored destination for beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

I could not resist the warmth of the sun, feeling embraced by the allure of this breathtaking paradise. I ran barefoot, feeling liberated to appreciate the beauty of the island.

The Sumilon Sandbar is a shifting expanse of soft white sand located off the southeastern coast of Cebu, near Oslob. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and its constantly changing shape due to the tides and seasons, it is recognized as one of the best destinations for day trips and snorkeling in the Phils.

One of the things I adore about this island is the stunning natural beauty of the surroundings. The long stretch of the beach, with its beautiful white waves crashing and sea birds soaring above, creates a picturesque view, complemented by large boats in the distance. Unfortunately, we could only explore for two hours due to our limited time before heading to the next attraction in Cebu.

Here are a few photographs capturing moments while exploring this tropical paradise. A cherished memento from my journey in this tropical haven. A delightful narrative of my adventure to take back home.

From these images, a story unfolds that you can easily connect with and it will soon persuade you to explore the same tropical island paradise, the Sumilon Sandbar.

Island hopping magic at the Sumilon sandbar! There’s so much beauty just waiting to be discovered. Here are a few photos capturing the joy of exploring this tropical paradise. A lovely keepsake from my time in this beautiful place. A wonderful story from my experience to take home.

What to bring: As I prepare to visit a beach destination, I also select my attire, which includes light summer dresses that complement the atmosphere, Light towel, trendy hat, breezy resort wear, and stylish one-piece swimsuits. Additionally, I ensure to pack my sunblock, which is essential along with a well-fitting mask, snorkel, fins, and reef-safe sunscreen to safeguard my skin. Naturally, I also bring my GoPro camera for capturing underwater moments.

How to get there: The easiest way is to fly directly to Mactan-Cebu International airport. From Cebu city, you need to travel to Oslob. Once you arrive in Oslob, There’s a boat transfer to take you to Sumilon sandbar.

I’m blessed to witnessed the beauty of Sumilon sandbar this summer. It’s a photographers dream come true.. If you wish to fully experience the sandbar, plan your visit during low tide to swim, snorkel, and take in the expansive views of the Cebu coast.

My adventure will not end up here, more Cebu attractions next posts..

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog!

Goodnight Fellas!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Photographers Corner | Travel and Adventure

Stunning Sunset Over Manila Bay

By livelifeandlove on March 10, 2026

March is generally regarded as the beginning of summer. This month, which spans from March to May, is perfect for capturing sunset and other landscape images. These images showcase my first efforts in landscape photography for March 2026. Although sunsets last only a few minutes, they make for wonderful subjects to capture. The best way to showcase the beauty of a sunset is through photographs, as they accurately depict its splendor, revealing a variety of colors in close-up views.

As the sun dipped below the western horizon, it painted the sky with vibrant colors during the golden hour, signaling the end of the day.

I have captured sunsets from various angles across different locations. Exploring wild and uncharted areas is invaluable, but some of the most captivating spots for sunset photography in the Philippines include Manila Bay, Bayview, and Harbour View Park. These three locations are often referred to as the “Photographer’s Backyard” and are my preferred sites for capturing sunsets.

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Technology/ Learning Tips

Lunar Eclipse Visible in the Philippines

By livelifeandlove on March 9, 2026

The ”blood moon” during the Lunar Eclipse was visible throughout the Philippines. On the night of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, I took these photos. The eclipse lasted for 59 minutes, almost an hour. I began watching the sky at 7:10 PM and fortunately, the night sky was clear, allowing me to see and photograph it from the perfect spot.

The moon turned completely red around 7:20, and it was incredibly dramatic to see against the clear sky. It was truly spectacular.

I took these pictures at home, and I also used some of them for my Facebook reels. I’m really happy that I was able to photograph and witness the blood moon because I have no idea when it will appear again and I’m not sure if it will be visible from my location anytime soon.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Photographers Corner | Travel and Adventure

Chasing the Beautiful Sunrise

By livelifeandlove on February 27, 2026

This breathtaking sunrise marks the start of a new day. It turns the sky into a dynamic canvas of yellow, pink, and radiant gold, often shrouded in morning mist. When I see the sun rising above the eastern horizon, it energizes me, fills me with hope, and brings the invigorating scent of cool morning air to begin the day.

The golden hour and shimmering golden rays fill the sky with dreams, while my heart brims with hope. It serves as a reminder of a new day to be grateful to God for the gift of life, waking up each day to rise and shine.

Chasing the beautiful sunrise is an inspiring and common practice that represents new beginnings. What about you? How would you describe the sunrise?

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Road 99 Bends Tianmen Mountain Winding Road Zhiangjiajie

By livelifeandlove on February 8, 2026

Road 99 turns or 99 Bends in Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie,Hunan Province China is renowned for its 99 sharp hairpin bends that climb the mountain. It’s a well-loved yet challenging and thrilling drive that showcases significant highlight providing breathtaking scenery rising from an elevation of approximately 200 meters to 1,300 meters.

Road 99 turns or 99 Bends

This image clearly illustrates the winding road that ascends steeply from the mountain base to the higher peak, featuring a total of 99 continuous bends, which include several 180-degree hairpin turns.

The Tianmen Mountain Winding Road Referred to as the Number One Wonder Road in the World this route, exceeding 10 kilometers in length, ascends sharply from an elevation of 200 meters to 1,300 meters above sea level. It features 99 uninterrupted curves.

Note: I snapped these photos while we were riding the Tianmen Mountain cable car to the top which gives access to some amazing high-altitude views. It was raining at that time which made these photos a little blurry. It was hazy and the temperature dropped below 3°C you could see the clouds from the mountain peaks were really misty and foggy.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

Goodnight Fellas!

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