Author: livelifeandlove

Hi! I’m Mari. My blog is all about me, my experience, wildlife, photography, travel and adventure, culture, tradition and other people that will give you a better perspective of the time in which you live. In here, You’ll discover the things I love most and passionate about. I usually focus to more educational and informative topics expressing my own thoughts using my own words, ideas, and honest statements. Included here are my collection of facts and dreams with beautiful photographs to make it visible for your inspiration and browsing pleasure. I would like to share my stories with the world, with photographs that will serve as a support to see what I’m describing as you read it.This is to share reality and show the best and good things in life. To the photograph itself, can make your own thoughts and my feelings visible to share with you and my site serves to store my thoughts and ideas. Of course, I can tell a lot of things by looking at the photographs alone following my explanation to achieve my purpose eventhough, photographs can speaks for itself, the author can simply fill up the missing part of it. This is what I want to do in my life, to write, share my learning and stories to make you a part of it. When you come to know more about yourself, you’ll know what you can offer to the world. This is what I can offer to you! I feel great to share with you not only my interesting stories but also to inspire you viewing spectacular and timeless photos. Read my articles about the birds, with my conservation message,and my lifelong dedication and contribution to wildlife.Thank you readers for the positive feedback.I have learned a lot from you. Note: If there is any oversight may have been made is unintentional and will be corrected. If there is any resemblance to any actual place, events, locales or persons is entirely coincidential.

5 Most Beautiful Temples in Thailand

By livelifeandlove on January 29, 2020

Maximizing our trip to discover the top tourist spots in Thailand is a must! With countless stunning and intriguing locations to explore, you’ll find a mix of culturally rich attractions, including historical landmarks, ancient ruins, the beautiful blooms of Chiang Mai, elephant shows, and some of the best Thai food around. It’s tough to fit everything in and refine our itinerary, but we definitely can’t skip the sacred sites,the spiritual heart of the world with a deep history. Visiting the religious shrine, the Sanctuary of Truth, and various monuments brings me a sense of peace, tranquility, and enlightenment.

Representing Thailand’s identity, the house of worship dedicated to human faith. We set off on a quick and easy loop hike to check out all five of the famous temples in Thailand. As we wandered around, it was hard to believe how these incredible structures were constructed, especially with their stunning spiritual statues. Thailand boasts over 40,717 temples, with 33,902 still in use today. Each temple has its own unique charm, and while the exteriors are truly majestic, it’s tough to see everything in one go. Many of these temples showcase influences from Indian, Chinese, Burmese, and Cambodian cultures.

I was really strucked by the stunning temples, which are beautifully adorned with intricate carvings and gold accents. Outside, you’ll often find impressive murals and massive statues. A temple serves as a sacred space dedicated to worship, acting as a home for a deity. In Thailand, the majority of the population practices Buddhism. Temples are a significant part of many religions, each telling a unique story that symbolizes various aspects of Buddhist belief. These temples typically feature towering structures with multiple levels to explore.

Tips and Reminders to all visitors visiting the temple

A temple is a sacred space for Buddhists, and it’s important to show it the respect it deserves. Visitors need to dress appropriately, but if you don’t have the right clothes, the temple offers outer garments that you can borrow and return afterward. (At other temples, there’s a 20 Baht fee for washing borrowed clothing.) Remember to treat Buddha images with the utmost respect using them as tattoo designs is considered disrespectful. Also, stepping on or climbing Buddha statues is strictly forbidden. Just a friendly reminder!

Note: ”Wat means ( Thai language) city of temples or place of worship.

5 Most Beautiful Temples in Thailand

Wa Maha That Temple

Wa Maha That Temple is a royal temple that houses the Buddhas relics. It is located in the central part of Ayutthaya. It was built in the early Ayutthaya kingdom early 20^th BE, the temple was the object of full attention receiving occasional additions and restorations. It is stated in Ayutthaya’s Royal Chronicle that the construction of Wa Maha That’s main pagoda (Prang) started by King Borromaracha in 1374 and completed During the reign of King Ramesuan. The pagoda collapsed during Songtham’s reign and renovated in 1633 after King Prasat Thong ascended to the throne.

Ayutthaya fall in 1767, the monastery was set on fire during the Burmese attack. The abandoned pagoda fell in decay during the reign of King Rama v1, only the symmetrical base and staircase remains.

Wat Arun

The temple that towers over the western side of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River is called “The Temple of Dawn,” inspired by the Indian deity Aruna, who represents dawn. Wat Arun is the most iconic site in Bangkok. I’ve never encountered anything like it, the temple is adorned with seashells and porcelain tiles. The God of Dawn is quite impressive, especially during sunrise or sunset, with so many intricate details up high.

Wat Lokayasutharam

This temple is quite fascinating and boasts the 4th longest reclining Buddha in the ancient city of Ayutthaya. The standout feature is the serene Buddha, which is set in a spacious area. Hearing my friend’s stories about this historical site really motivated me to explore all the stunning temples Thailand has to offer.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A holy temple located in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, sits atop Doi Suthep, which rises 1,000 meters above sea level on the city’s west side. To reach the temple, visitors must climb a naga staircase featuring 500 steps, following a long, winding road up the mountain.

Pattaya Buddha Mountain

This is the largest carved Buddha statue in the world, standing at 109 meters tall and 70 meters wide. It was created on the Chi Chan mountain cliff in 1996 using laser technology to mark the 50th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign. His Majesty King Bhumibol named this impressive sculpture “Phra Buddha Maja Vajira Uttamophat Satsada,” which translates to “The Buddha that enlightens and shines with brightness and sublimity.” The statue is depicted in a seated position, styled after Pang Man Wichai as Phrawarachabopit.

The Pattaya Buddha showcases a blend of Lanna and Sukhothai artistic styles. Adjacent to the cliff, there’s a lovely prayer garden, providing a spacious landscape for visitors to meditate. The entire area is large enough to welcome a significant number of people who come to visit the temple mountain.

Note: For more breathtaking images of Thailand’s five temples, check out the next post where you can find full details and a complete gallery of Thailand’s temple collection.

I appreciate you dedicating your time to read my blog!

Kaibigan Movie Holds Successful Premiere

By livelifeandlove on December 6, 2019

Jesse and Christian Perkins also known as the Perkins twins received support from celebrity friends, family and fans at the Red Carpet Premiere of their movie, Kaibigan. Hosted by by Rico Robles, the Red Carpet Premiere was held at SM Megamall cinema December 3, 2019, Tuesday. Weather may not have been good but despite the bad weather, the Red Carpet Premiere was a huge success.

Some of the cast were on red carpet for the screening and premiere night of the Perkinspiredflix original film. Stephen Andrew Baldwin, an American actor, producer, director, author. He is the father of model Hailey Baldwin, wife of singer Justin Bieber) plays a significant role in this movie, ‘’Kaibigan’’ Jean Garcia cast as the role of Beth Anderson, Mocha Uson as a reporter in this movie, Victor Basa and many more….

Kaibigan is an inspirational movie starring Filipino-American Jesse and Christian Perkins (flaternal twins) were born in the Philippines to an American father Tarny Perkins from California and a Filipina mother Tess Pazziuagan, is a former flight stewardess from Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Tess is also a former classmate of mine. I’m a big fan of the Perkins Twins, I was amazed to see how their acting talent and nice vocals shines through . I’m excited to see your next movie again. Congratulations Jesse and Christian Perkins and to the proud parents, Tarny and Tess.

Kaibigan Movie

NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

I recommend that you watch this movie

A must- see movie the “Kaibigan” There are exciting and impressive sequences in Kaibigan but in the end is the most memorable touching scene, you’ll also find facts that will surprise you, it’s an inspiring movie with meaningful life lessons to learn and to satisfy every film enthusiast.

Tarny Perkins, father of the Perkins twins thanking everyone who watched the film, Kaibigan.

Red Carpet Premiere of the movie KAIBIGAN

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Wildlife/Animals/Pets

Cat Watching The Lion King

By livelifeandlove on November 26, 2019

My cat loves to watch the American musical film,”The Lion King”. He even tried to touch and hug one of the main characters, ”Simba” Note: Don’t forget to watch my cat video displaying his emotional expression from the sad scene of the movie The Lion King on tv. Coming soon, see you next post..

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Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Brilliant Red Dragonfly Pictures

By livelifeandlove on November 7, 2019

I’ve photographed my morning visitors, it’s a daily ritual to welcome all winged insects such as honeybees, butterflies and of course, today’s subject is a sleepy one, a brilliant red dragonfly or Red-veined darter Dragonfly landed on a small tree trunk. Using only a single subject and constantly changing position to consider the best creative angle to choose from. Let me show you the result, it’s a fresh shoot taken this morning.

Stunning Pictures of Red-veined darter Dragonfly

Brilliant red dragonfly or Red-veined darter Dragonfly is not widespread, it is rare here in the Philippines.

You can clearly see the three distinct segments here.

This is the best advantage of macro you can see and discover what is hidden behind.

The center of interest is the visual appeal of the dragonfly.

When photographing dragonflies, it usually requires macro to see tiny details that even the naked eye can’t see.

How I wish to create a clear detailed dragonfly image.

Morning atmosphere is just right this time. Following the basic rules, Macro photography is not always as easy as you think but it is rewarding.

Point of focus to my subject to which I think is suitable for my morning hobby. Just a closer shot from a distance.

Morning light works well this time. I just hope you’ll enjoy viewing my dragonfly images. Thank you for visiting my website.

Double-Boiled Winter Melon Soup with Assorted Seafood

By livelifeandlove on November 2, 2019

The Double-boiled Winter Melon Soup with assorted seafood standing on a large holder for support. The winter melon shell is a very attractive serving bowl for soup although it’s quite heavy and tough but it can hold up to the heat of the soup. Peking Garden, 4th level, Greenbelt 5 Makati City serves the best Double-Boiled Winter Melon Soup with Assorted Seafood. The big size is suitable for 10 to 12 persons, it is a hot clear soup almost boiling when served. The most delicious soup is when you bring up the total hotness on the table, the natural freshness of seafood and vegetable brings up the good flavor.

Peking Garden, 4th level, Greenbelt 5 Makati City

Double-Boiled Winter Melon Soup with Assorted Seafood, the shrimp tails hanging over the edge of the winter melon bowl.

It’s not oily, it is clear and tasty as I’ve mentioned previously, you don’t see any tiny floating particles on top.

Individual serving, Small bowl of Winter Melon Soup.

How it was served? The Double-Boiled Winter Melon Soup brought inside the room by the server.

The winter melon flesh It’s still smoky hot!

Wheeled by the server using a service cart ( 2 shelf cart with wheels) along with soup bowls and a ladle.

The server carefully ladled in assorted seafood inside the shell and scraped the flesh of winter melon using a long-handed cup-shaped spoon followed by the clear soup to fill each bowl. For our finale, picking a piece of shrimps over the edge of the winter melon bowl.

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

Best Selection of Fruits for Growing Teens and Kids

By livelifeandlove on October 24, 2019

One way to encourage a family member to eat fruits regularly is to buy some and store it in the refrigerator. Once they arrived earlier than expected especially during hot days,they go directly to the refrigerator and see something refreshing that will attract their taste buds, it would be tempting for them to take a bite of fresh cold fruits. Another way to make it easier for them to pick it up, make it readily available and ready to eat.

While it’s simply tempting to young kids and growing teens from buying junk foods, fruits make the best alternative for them, it is a good source of fiber, vitamins and natural compounds that helps the body to fight against diseases. For moms out there, when shopping food or planning family meals, vow to be organized, explain the nutritional value and make buying fruits a weekly habit. Be open to special requests, you ask your kids to make a list of their favorite fruits. It’s good to serve fresh fruits any meal of the day better than turning into unhealthy junks or fast food items.

Sliced fresh fruits with some selection. For the kids, it’s a choice of their favorites. Choices to choose from; kiwi, strawberry, dragon fruit, oranges, apples, grapes, avocados or any fresh fruits with the natural sweetness.

Shown here, our daily selection of fruits for good health and everyday freshness.There’s no substitute to self-prepared fresh fruits, it requires only 10 to 15 minutes of your time to serve these kind, just a short time preparation without cooking at all. What a handy effort to rush on. You may also want to add more ripe fruits and additional drops of Pineapple sauce, Yogurt, Ice cream, Cherry syrup and Sweet honey flavor is good too.

Have fun and enjoy eating fruits!

Thank you readers/ viewers for visiting my website! See you next posts!

Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera~Palace of Memory

By livelifeandlove on September 20, 2019

Time and date: 6 PM, Tuesday, September 10, 2019 At the Art Lounge Manila, a new location for Mario de Rivera, a Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter, to exhibit his work, he just held the Grand Opening of his One-Man Show. Many came to take in the creative display, as it provides viewers with a wealth of visual stimulation.

Nearly a hundred friends, art collectors, and family members attended, including other well-known figures from the art world.

Highlights of the exhibition include hand-drawn Champagne toasts, a discussion by artist Mario de Rivera about his inspirations, a live performance by a ballet couple, and a slide display of his son Lorenzo’s breathtaking paintings. Creativity appears to be inherited. It was hoped that Lorenzo’s artistic prowess would one day be on par with that of his famous father.

Artistically, Mario de Rivera is well-established at this point. Since then, he has participated in both solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally. Many auctions have featured his creations. In 2003, de Rivera beat over over a thousand international competitors to take home the Excellence Award at the Beppu Contemporary Art Exhibit in Japan, and in 2000, she was named one of three finalists for the Phillip Morris Award in Manila.

Art Lounge Manila Ground Level Podium ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

A catalog richly detailed that shows all exhibition pieces of de Rivera.

The variety of de Rivera’s paintings on display here exemplifies the appeal of modern visual arts.

The patronage of art enthusiasts and private collectors, in addition to the notoriety of numerous exhibitions in the mainstream media, social media, and blogs, has expanded in recent years, contributing to the paintings’ robust structural quality.

To your achievement, we raise our glasses! Mario (second from right) and his wife Luz are the toastmasters. To keep up with the growing demand, I wish you the best of luck. Cheers!

Thanks to Mario de Rivera’s keen eye, we are able to perceive the hidden reality of objects side by side, thanks to the contrast created by the whirling colors and the dazzling accents on the pure color. Style and form, rather than subject matter, are what make a photograph beautiful.

Me with the Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter Mario de Rivera and Ninica del Rosario (Mario’s cousin).

Taken during the Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory at Art Lounge Manila. (right ) Mario de Rivera, Ninica del Rosario, Me and Edgar Pazziuagan.

Added entertainment that evening, a Ballet duet live performance.

Stunning Paintings of Mario de Rivera

The scope of the whole collection, de Rivera produces the kind of art that suits the purposes of its particular time.

”The Black Dragon River”

”The Dry Season Afternoon”

”Between Sumba and Shanghai”

”Between Diu & Makassar”

”Anapolas Indias”

Atty. Baniqued, (left) Ninica del Rosario, Dr. and Dra Lim also graced the Gala opening of Mario de Rivera Palace of Memory.

Impressive Table Setting full of fantastic party appetizers and tasty finger foods.

Champagne and sparkling wine on the table

Having a solo show of artworks marks the achievement of huge success! The power of art inspired the viewers. I was enjoying the evening with friends around; Ninica (Mario’s cousin) and Edgar P., we all enjoyed the accomplishment of seeing Mario de Rivera’s work on display.

Thank you so much Ninica del Rosario for your kind invitation.

Congratulations to Mario de Rivera on his solo exhibition at Art Lounge Manila!

Art Lounge Manila proudly Presents Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory Grand Opening: September 10, 2019/ 6 PM / Exhibit runs until September 24, 2019/ The Podium Ground Level, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave Tuao Cagayan

By livelifeandlove on August 15, 2019

Entering the town of Tuao, the first thing you’ll notice is this welcome sign at the left side of the road. This entry sign, “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave” leaves a beautiful impression of the town as well as describing the positive attitude of the people of Tuao Cagayan. According to social media posts of my cousins, Tuao is where people are proud to live and visitors are always welcome here.

Welcome entry sign of Tuao Cagayan. The Municipality of Tuao, is a 1st class municipality in the province of Cagayan

This beautiful welcome entry sign of Tuao Cagayan says a lot about their town, it is a catching phrase visual reminder and it’s a local pride!

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

Creative Ways to Serve Fresh Strawberries

By livelifeandlove on August 2, 2019

Strawberries that are picked fresh have the best flavor. They also look perfectly ripe and moist with redness. Often, we only consider the fruit’s sweetness, which is significant, but many fruits have additional qualities as well; they may be sweet, scented, nutritious, colorful, and healthful. Strawberries have everything!

The nice kind of strawberries grown in La Trinidad, Benguet, were all planted in rows, a foot apart from one another. La Trinidad has good soil and a climate that is conducive to various types of crops. Strawberries are popular, and they are also my personal favourite.

At the La Trinidad strawberry farm, you can pick your own strawberries. Owners will guide strawberry pickers and charge 500 pesos per kilo. It is expensive when compared to the public market prices in Baguio City. Heavy farming and collecting takes place from March to April, when the fruits are abundant. The benefit of picking on your own is that you can feel the enthusiasm and fresh aroma surrounding you, which gets you even more enthusiastic. It’s worthwhile!

Strawberry fields of La Trinidad, Benguet

Growing in numerous rows, the strawberry field is a great illustration of a tidy environment. The white blossom that is visible here is the strawberry flower, which will shortly develop into a white fruit. Details: The fruit next to the blossom is not entirely white, rather it is partially red and white. Fruits are white while they are unripe, but they progressively turn red as they ripen. A strawberry can only be picked when it is completely ripe.

Freshly picked strawberries in a box

I’ve made a variety of arrangements with fresh strawberries, including the traditional grouping of strawberries, letters made out of strawberries, and heart-shaped strawberries on a platter. Here are some suggestions for serving it at the center table on a platter. Serving strawberries in the garden or backyard while having a barbecue outside is also a good idea when guests are present.

I made delicious fruit salads with these fruits, and they also look good when combined with other fresh fruits. Along with being a tasty dessert and a healthy snack, it works well in shakes, ice cream, jams, and jellies.

My Valentine masterpiece

I’ll show you an example of how to please your loved one on Valentine’s Day. This is a simple piece of art that features fresh strawberries as the centerpiece of the table. It is appropriate to serve strawberries on this special day because the red color and heart shape, as well as the sweet fragrance, represent love; it is similar to serving your love with these fragrant fruits.

Strawberry Valentine

This is a big Valentine party arrangement on the table.

Heart-shaped Strawberries

Lovely Strawberry Hearts

A heart-shaped arrangement strawberries on a platter.

Modern Ways to Serve Strawberries

Rounded Form or Circular-Shaped Strawberries

To create a circular form, it is best to choose the firm and the ripe ones.

Strawberry Robot

My illustration of a Red Robot using strawberries, this is a big strawberry robot. It’s just a funny arrangement of fruits.

Strawberry Alphabet

I’ve arranged strawberries using the letter M it represents the first letter of my name on a platter, you can create one for you too.

Strawberry Pink Sprinkles

Strawberries in a Cocktail Glass

Unequal-sized strawberries, the big one must always at the center. This kind of arrangement will create specific mood on the table.

The freshness inside, strawberry slices with other fruits.

Strawberry Cocktail Delights

I used a pristine white plate to highlight the red hue of the strawberries and show off new ideas for serving them on a platter.

Serving fresh strawberries on the table without removing the stalk, it serves as a holder as you eat and it would be easier to pick it up, that’s the natural way to hold a piece of strawberry.

Strawberry Fan

Strawberries with other fruits.

The trendy arrangement of strawberries.

This method of serving will highlight the freshness of the fruits.

One way to introduce strawberries as a visually appealing snack and dessert on the table.

Individual serving of fresh strawberries

You will enjoy the freshness in its natural state more if you pick your own strawberries and eat them with your hands. You can serve it fresh by simply washing it, leaving the stem and calyx intact to demonstrate freshness and to show the entire fruit. It’s just a ready-to-eat fresh fruit. You only need to pick, wash, and consume. I sincerely hope you will find ways to give this presentation a try at home.

Thank you for reading my blog!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Viewing the Sunset Through an Airplane Window

By livelifeandlove on July 31, 2019

Whenever I travel, I prefer the window seat because it gives me the best viewing spot, it’s the best corner that offers a variety of views to savor from beautiful landscapes to a field of greenery, towering mountains and cliff, sunrise and sunset scene and other water forms to name a few..

The best seat that I can enjoy is the window seat, this is the best space to enjoy the constant changing views above and if given a chance, aside from others land forms, you’ll get to witness the sunrise or sunset too, this might be the reasons why most passengers would rather sit in the window seat than the aisle. The small space provides a bit of privacy for relaxing and entertaining without even bothering seatmates, it is a better pick especially if your flight is short. My flight time from Taipei to Manila is just 2 hours, my flight departure from Taoyuan International Airport around 5 PM. With a flight mode adjustment, I was able to take few pictures done with permission , I was only given 3 minutes to shoot the sky clouds above and luckily, the good timing to shoot the beautiful sunset.

The green sky at night. Green flashes, yellow and orange combination lasted only for a second.

Magnificent Sunset from the Plane Window

Viewing the beauty of the world from a higher altitude, it’s my dream to produce beautiful aerial photography shots. This is a hand held photos with some degree of accuracy but to few, it may be very confusing, certain locations causing just as an approximate details like somewhere around.

Fly with me to experience the changing colors of twilight. This is really interesting, you’ll witness here from the start of sunset till darkness, the beauty from beyond twilight hours..

Sunset from an airplane window, taken on my flight journey from Taipei to Manila.

It was already the start of sunset time, I took this shot one hour after departure.

Blanket of clouds getting thicker and bolder . Sunset colors; the light blue-green flashes with yellow and orange lights about to merge together. Colors of the sunset result from a phenomenon called scattering.

The transition of colors is about to form…

Flying above the flat clouds

Reddish-orange color is about to appear. Reddening of the sun at sunset time.

Shifting sunset colors into a new dimension.

Scattering of light blue colors with yellow sun rays.

Taken halfway between Taipei and Manila. Getting dark slowly. This is a very colorful sunset perhaps the long wavelengths of light that provides variety of colors.

Watching and photographing the passing of time, the romantic colors and the soft glowing of lights is an inspiration to connect with nature.

The sun is about sink below the horizon, leaving mostly blue, yellow, red and orange light remaining. The light is still visible for awhile and complete darkness took place after this last picture.Taking a few minutes to appreciate the skyline, it was a peaceful time for me to see how the day ends on board.

This is a rare opportunity to capture the sunset from an airplane window. I was lucky enough given the chance to experience once in a lifetime activity.

Thank you for reading my blog!

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