Live Life and Love

Filipino Figure Skater, Michael Christian Martinez

By livelifeandlove on April 28, 2014

After meeting the Guinness Book of Record Holder, Gina Gil Lacuna, Here’s another famous, Michael Christian Martinez, a young figure skater and the first Filipino to qualify for the Sochi Winter Olympics. The pride of the Philippines is only 17 and the youngest skater who competed during that time.

Following the event lately, the Philippines hosted ISU WORLD DEVELOPMENT TROPHY 2014 at SM Megamall Skating Rink last April 21-26 participated by 11 countries. I was there during the last day of the event. I even met some skaters from other countries during the Junior skating free style. I really thought, it was already late when I arrived. I’m glad, was able to catch up 30 minutes before Michael will skate. The last day was the awarding of winners and the highlight of the event, a night exhibition of Michael.

It was my first time to see Michael skating live at SM Skating rink. Wearing a full black outfit, looks handsome and in perfect form. It was very entertaining to see all his graceful movements on ice with the loud music of,’’A Time for us.’’ I did video while photographing at the same time. (Video footage to be published soon) Only 17 of age, tall and slim, he was the most admired skater that night. He won the hearts of the crowd especially the teenagers around.

Holding my camera at one corner of the rink, I did horizontal and vertical shots, it’s really hard to catch the center of interest in order to get a good view. The corner was not an easy spot, the thick glass of the skating rink is blocking my view. However, catching Michael’s fast movement on ice is the center of my interests.

Michael Christian Martinez (Filipino athlete in the Winter Olympics) performing live at MEGAMALL Skating Rink. Here are some of Michael’s skating movement, exciting moves on display. It’s hard to catch up the Axel speed.

2 Comments

SUNFLOWER FARM

By livelifeandlove on April 23, 2014

After my 3 days vacation in Tagaytay, one of the best features that I will highlight here is the Sunflower field. It’s not that hard to find this common kind because it is wild form. As you know, sunflowers can withstand the dry conditions of the soil. I’ve noticed that sunflower grow and spread faster especially if the space is not limited.

With the rich soil and temperate climate of Tagaytay, all the subdivision vacant plots was loaded with these flowers and some growing salad vegetables. Exploring the farm under full bright sun makes me feel exhausted, the heat of the sun was so intense that makes my skin bit darker. However, the sky clouds seemingly low and blue in color, thought it would make a beautiful background to produce lovely shots.

Gardening was much improved over the years, the presence of different species of flowering plants and wild forms have flourished. If you follow the routes going to the tropical forest, you’ll discover unique varieties with wide range and colors.

Sunflower produces wide golden-yellow blooms which is abundant throughout summer. From the name itself, of course, sunflower is a summer flower that loves the sun. Attractive as it looks, big lovely splash of golden-yellow petals makes the best decorative background in the farm. For me, every garden must have the wild side, the attendance of wild sunflowers must be present for the garden to look brilliantly natural.

Would love to take home some, I want a sunflower garden of my own. I’ve collected some dried sunflowers so I can get seeds from it. Sunflowers can be raised from seeds. I’ll bring it home and scatter those seeds in the garden.

Here are some of the photos I took during the first day of my vacation there. Lets get started!

(Click on images to view larger)

Nature’s view, it was wild and lovely in full golden yellow.

Wild blooms, rows of yellow wild and free.

You can see here, the clear view, beside the field is a summer house.

Sky viewing with the sunflowers. I feel like cutting these flowers, it would probably looks lovely over my left ear.

Here’s catching higher view, the sunflower plant is taller than me.

I’ve seen sunflowers around so many instances but, closer distance makes the difference.

I have to raise my camera in order to include the sky background.

Wide spread, my individual photo of sunflower.

How I wish to pick up some for my vases but, I didn’t bring any gardening tools, the stem was so hard.

I’ve seen giant sunflowers so many other instances but closer distance makes a big difference, you can touch it and see closer to the pollinating insects nearby.

I’m glad ,all shots came up to be beautiful, the clear blue sky make candid shots to bring out the beauty of the sunflowers.I hope you’ll like it. More garden flowers of Tagaytay next, my journey continues next posts.

6 Comments

Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | Fashion/ Health/ Beauty

Wear Something Appropriate

By livelifeandlove on April 16, 2014

Continuation of….VALENTINE’S DAY: WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO WEAR? WHAT TO GIVE?

What to wear?

It depends on places you want to go to. You can wear anything but it’s good to wear something appropriate. Buying is not important, you can make yourself presentable without spending a single buck. You can make yourself extra special from head to toe using your own effort, that will make you look different if you know how to mix and match your old clothes.

It’s fun to make your own style and trendy look, you can wear attractive blouses or tight jeans to pair with or colorful dress would also be good. All you have to do is to check your closet, bring out all attractive items and accessories. I’m sure you’ll find something that fits you well. Focus to change everything like your hair style because your hair is your crowning glory that will lighten up your face and the clothes you are going to wear will change the whole of you. You can pony your hair to look young and girly, wear attractive head bands or pretty hair clips. Soft and wavy hair is also good or, just a straight hair look.

Being beautiful and presentable is good to look at. I’m sure, you want to have a photo collection of the event and do the close-up selfie shot afterwards. I remember a friend of mine, She hates to repeat the same clothes that was already photographed earlier. It was an expensive set-up to change all the time. Just enjoy the day with your escort, Make this day a day to remember.

Leave a comment

Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | Technology/ Learning Tips

BUYING GIFTS AND TIPS

By livelifeandlove on April 14, 2014

Continuation of VALENTINE’S DAY: WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO WEAR? WHAT TO GIVE?

What to give?

Gift is not important, your presence and personal greetings on that day is indeed a big gift. However, if you want to buy one, it must not be very expensive. Here are some suggestions on what to give.

1. Heart–shaped chocolates with red ribbons and card attached

2. A dozen of roses or just a piece is also good

3. A box of Jelly candies

4. Favorite book

6. D-I-Y cards

7. Basket full of strawberries, any fresh fruits is welcome

8. Stuff toy; Cute red bears and heart-shaped pillows

Gifts are just something to remember, It’s just a one day event. Just like shoes, bags, shirts or anything, it will surely end up in the closet. The roses particularly or any kinds of fresh flowers, 2 days after, it will end up in the trash can unless you know how to make potpourri out of it, or you can use it for book marking. The point is, you can’t keep it for a long time but, memories you can save. The warmth of giving will always be remembered.

You can just imagine how many occasions in a year, from baptism graduation, birthdays, Christmas day and a day to remember love is Valentine’s day. Giving gift is just a good deed of being a thoughtful you!

Buying Gifts

Others, they keep the budget and get ready for this important occasion. If you are ready, shopping must be done earlier in order for you to hunt for a reasonable one, malls might be full and too crowded. You can also wait for a monthly midnight sale. Big malls offered selected items cutting down prices from 50% to 75% to attract buyers.

Always buy something that fits your budget to avoid spending more that can stretch your monthly allowance. Price is always an important factor to size things up particularly the branded items is a temptation. If I buy something expensive, I always compare it to other brands before making decision to purchase it, I don’t want to regret it later. Others prefer a luxury gifts without checking the difference, on the other hand, some are cutting their expenses according to their budget.

It happened once when I bought a pair of jeans and colorful blouse, I really thought it was a cute one but, when I arrived home to refit it, It came up to be different. It fits well but, I noticed there’s an itchy thing inside my blouse that makes me so uncomfortable. I regret buying all those things then, it was a lesson learned previously.

If you don’t have the time to go out, go online shopping. You can choose almost everything from shoes to bags, shirts, jeans, accessories to name a few.

Leave a comment

My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Feeling of Love in Romantic Setting

By livelifeandlove on April 11, 2014

Love feeling that takes place in romantic setting

Low clouds and afternoon mist provides dramatic effect before the sunset. A young man sitting alone serves to highlight the colorful shadow before sundown. What is the young man doing in this area? No one bothered him except me for a few moment chat with him. What brought you here? And he replied,”Just to see the sunset’’ What is so special about the sunset? He answered, It gives refreshing mood away from hectic school schedules and assignments.

For few questions, I’d like to get a possibility from him to open a love story but,I refrain myself from asking too many questions because it might be awkward to answer such things. There was no early arrangement made to interview since it was only a chance meeting. He was busy texting while talking. I guess, curiosity made me so, he’s here to release all his worries. After having him talked as he wished, he left holding his mobile on hand. With just a few steps away, He turned his back and said, I think, I’m already in love! Ohhh! that’s the point I’ve been waiting for…

How could you forget something just as for me to repeat his name as he walk away.. I can recall other details with the facts that came in the corner of just a short conversation.It seems to be a typical love story revolving around teenagers of today.

An outdoor experience. A good setting where you can get more hours to refresh and think about what the next move.

Beautiful scenery, Manila Bay along Roxas Blvd.

I agree, this is the perfect place to relax but, if you ask me to relate the atmosphere here, I can just describe it as a lonely daybreak. I mean, at least, you must have a meaningful smile even if hectic school assignment arises! It’s just a part of education and for you to learn and grow up!

Looks like a solitaire but I don’t see any grim expression on his face.No matter what we go through life, to love and to be loved, it’s meant to make life worth living.

Far from the buzz of the university crowd. Sometimes, It’s more calm and peaceful to be with yourself for awhile.

Among my favorite places to go, I really believed this place is the best refreshing area that’s why I was also here at that time.

How wonderful to view the same area at this time of the day. It’s makes a big difference if you stay home and enclosed yourself to a room with only 4 wall corners to view every time. That would be very boring, isn’t it?

Taken 30 minutes before the sunset.

This refreshing sight is a wonder of nature. If you see these scenic views you’ll forget all your worries and what lies beyond… It would be a meaningful experience to view the sunset. It will help you appreciate and understand Mother Nature. And you? How do you refresh yourself? and where?

2 Comments

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

HIBISCUS VARIETIES

By livelifeandlove on April 10, 2014

We call it ”Gumamela”, a common kind of flowers grown in the Philippines. The most popular one is the Chinese Hibiscus which is red in color and generally the ”Rose of China”.Today, there are many varieties of hibiscus to choose from, all different in colors sizes and texture. We also have the single type and the doubled flower of every size and shape. Some hibiscus was discovered growing wild in tropical regions. These are sun loving flowers, they can tolerate high levels of light and the kind of flowers found throughout the year in any garden or in native habitat. Always seen around because it’s extremely easy to grow in any types of soil. Here are some photos of hibiscus flowers taken during my free time.

(Click on images to view larger)

Leave a comment

Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects

PHALAENOPSIS AMABILIS

By livelifeandlove on April 3, 2014

Phalaenopsis Amabilis, a shade loving orchids with clear white flowers. Grown under the tree, there’s no direct sunlight which is favorable to these type of orchids. I just love that lavish blooms in clusters.

We have had a collection of orchids like; Cattleya, Miltonia, Phalaenopsis and particularly the Odontoglossum. Some rare species of hybrids, the most popular and common ones but, I don’t know why they disappeared one after the other. Others grown in fir slabs, pots for my window decorations, baskets and coconut trunk.

I think, I have failed to give continuously the special attention of caring and watering or might be over-watering. I noticed every time the presence of mould, circular marks and black dried spots on the leaves that quickly spreads throughout killing the whole plant. Is it a virus infection? I don’t know. I cannot even distinguished which one was attacked by virus and sunburn, the sign looks almost the same. Sometimes I was thinking of our location, it might be too hot, that makes it very hard for them to reach the required temperature.

Of course, I know the basic requirements but the problem is the irregularity of watering and sometimes it’s over-watering. I was too busy for other things every time then, it’s only now that I have the interest again to care for some flowering plants. It’s summer, Is it the right time to start? What do you think? Which one is suitable and which one is not? I need help!

(Click on images to view larger)

It’s an outdoor orchids, these one is clinging to the tree trunk that serves as convenient support.

If ever I will collect again, just to make sure I will choose the species suitable to the kind of atmosphere here.

Leave a comment

Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects | Wildlife/Animals/Pets

PRIVATE HAWK MOTH

By livelifeandlove on March 26, 2014

Private hawk moth

The kind of moth that will come as something of a surprise, it’s another night flyer, a private hawk moth found near the garden decorative light. Just like other moths, I guess this moth was attracted to the garden lights. I’ve observed that hindwing is more attractive and colorful than the forewing. I’ve never seen one like this before. You can only see the color of the hindwings while flying. That makes it completely different to that of the butterfly, the butterfly forewing and hindwing colors are the same. I simply believed, our garden here is a natural one housing all different kinds of insects. Perhaps, without these insects, it wouldn’t be a garden anymore.

The private hawk moth hindwing is partly hidden. You can see the dark pink and light pink dotted combination of the hindwings.

The natural color of the forewings.

Note: (Click on images to view larger)

Leave a comment

Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | Fashion/ Health/ Beauty | Technology/ Learning Tips

VALENTINE’S DAY: WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO WEAR? WHAT TO GIVE?

By livelifeandlove on March 24, 2014

People buy gifts to any occasion like; Birthdays,Mother’s day,Father’s day, Christmas day and Valentine’s day was no exception although, it will only lasts for a day, it’s the time for boys especially the teenagers would choose a girl to pair up with. Following the hearty day with gift-giving of flowers, cute red bears, chocolates, exchanging love notes, sweet text messages, phone calls, and romantic dating. The day before, may be a whole day session of thinking and planning on where to go,Perhaps, you no longer needed to be coach, but, there are some suggestions you need to know just to ensure a wholesome Valentine’s day. It’s good to plan ahead of time.There might not be enough hours on that day that you’ll find yourself confused and rushing on where to go and what to give and what to wear. Whether you are single, loveless or married, whatever,t’s great to show your love on this day. Always remember that Love is…what you make it. Here are some tips on what to do before the occasion. This is applicable to any occasion not just Valentine’s day. Before anything else, Let me begin with few don’t’s.

What to avoid:

1.Set aside any problems first. Don’t discuss any problems from the past and present. Remember that this day is a special interests to both of you.

2. Avoid any embarrassing moments.

3. Skip tough conversation. However, if conflict arises, your partner might respond differently that may hurt your feelings. Stay cool and lower your tone to handle it safely. Learn to hug and make up a few words and tell him/her how you love him so much. Save the trouble, that’s a good sign of relief to make up before the day ends.

Where to go?

For the Lovers: What thrill and excitement do you have in mind? If you are going with a special date that you may want something romantic? Treat your partner to a candle dinner for two, or a dinner in a restaurant with a romantic view of the sunset. This is the right setting wherein you may want to propose or you may want to bring out the feelings you’ve been keeping for a long time. Any place with beautiful scenery while eating is perfectly good. The location would simply make your day romantic and memorable.

Family Celebration: A restaurant with large serving wherein you can enjoy different kinds of foods. A buffet or eat –all- you- can restaurant is a good choice. It would be a good treat to surprise all family members.

For the Internet Explorers: Make it heard, first hour greetings is great. Give free electronic greeting cards, stickers and photos taken a day ahead. You can make personalized greetings in Photoshop editing, using your own photos, add meaningful captions and humble words. You can attach your emails and send it through application. You can also inbox beautiful messages with love songs attached, get it U-Tube. Revive your play lists and do the Facebook tags.

For Single and the Loveless:

This is what you call a humble sacrifice if you don’t have a pair during Valentine’s day. Of course, it’s gonna be lonely without your love but, don’t waste your time inside your bedroom. Always remember that, your family is your true love. The good thing about being single; you are in the best situation to have a freedom to do everything, a complete full time for yourself. However, you can invite your bestfriend or group of friends to take a stroll on this day, it might be a night out to grove, that’s the best time to wear your dancing shoes or, you may want to sing, bringing our your golden voice that wasn’t heard for a long time. Karaoke bar with group of friends is fun! Choose a group more likely who have the same interests as you. A wholesome dinner with your family is surely appreciated too.

Note: To be continued…it was such a long blog! See you next post

Leave a comment

Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects

ROSES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

By livelifeandlove on March 18, 2014

Roses, as highly recommended during Valentine’s day, it’s the time of the year that million of rose lovers throughout the planet remember their favorite presents for their loved ones. If not chocolates or cute stuffs, it’s roses because majority prefer fragrant flowers as a gift. Giving such, is particularly appreciated. It creates an attitude of praise between the sender and the receiver.

How it works? Let’s make a bit review.The sender wants the best gift to represent the character side and nature of the receiver that she’s lovely and sweet. These flowers will represent and reveal the exact personality of the receiver. It speaks for it. However, on the other side, the receiver simply thinks that the sender is not only thoughtful and loving as well. It will reciprocate the same admiration to both sides.

It’s a practice believed that roses are spice of love and soon it brings a spice for life. Clearly, it’s a symbol of love. Me, myself still receiving the same kind of flowers from the same person up to the present. It’s just like saying, I’m still lovely and sweet after all these years, Honestly speaking and not to be proud off, still I am! LOL!

When getting to know more about someone,giving roses is a great way to catch attention or, you may want to start a relationship all over again. I’m sure you’ll earn a good impression while it lasts.

Leave a comment

The Lights of CHRISTmas/Taguig People’s Park

Avatar-Beijing Tour

Rope Swing Over the Deep Emerald Sea

The Secret Lagoon: El Nido, Palawan

Filipino Figure Skater, Michael Christian Martinez

SUNFLOWER FARM

Wear Something Appropriate

BUYING GIFTS AND TIPS

Feeling of Love in Romantic Setting

HIBISCUS VARIETIES

PHALAENOPSIS AMABILIS

PRIVATE HAWK MOTH

VALENTINE’S DAY: WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO WEAR? WHAT TO GIVE?

ROSES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS