Spring Break Project: Building Progress on Our Frame House in Latvia

7 May, 2024 | Frame House | 86 seen

As the chill of winter slowly gives way to the warmth of spring, it's the perfect time to roll up our sleeves and dive back into the construction of our dream frame house in Latvia. 

During this Spring break from British International school in Tbilisi, which fell between the end of March and the beginning of April 2024, our team made significant strides in bringing our vision to life.

First and foremost, we focused our efforts on enhancing the structural integrity and comfort of our home by installing floors for both the first and second stories. This milestone marked a crucial step forward, transforming our skeletal frame into a tangible space where memories will soon be made.

In addition to laying down floors, we dedicated time and energy to beautifying the exterior of our abode. 

One of the most visually striking achievements of this Spring break was the completion of the front side of the house. By meticulously attaching planks, we not only added a layer of protection against the elements but also imbued our home with character and charm.

Recognizing the importance of natural light and ventilation, we enlisted the expertise of a skilled windows specialist. This professional meticulously measured the openings for our windows, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal functionality. With this crucial step taken care of, we can look forward to inviting the outdoors in while maintaining a cozy and secure living environment.

In harmony with the season of renewal, we seized the opportunity to introduce elements of nature into our surroundings. 

Alongside our construction efforts, we planted strawberries and apple trees, envisioning a future where our garden blooms with fresh produce and fragrant blossoms. These green additions not only contribute to the aesthetics of our property but also serve as a testament to our commitment to sustainable living.

As we reflect on the progress made during this Spring break, we are filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Each nail hammered, each floorboard laid, and each seed planted brings us one step closer to realizing our vision of a warm and welcoming home in the heart of Latvia. With each passing season, our dream takes shape, fueled by passion, perseverance, and the promise of new beginnings.

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, we eagerly anticipate the next phase of our journey, knowing that with each passing day, our frame house becomes more than just a structure—it becomes a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring beauty of creation.

Renee set up her first pop up store. Who nows maybe in days she will become a wonderful sales person?!

Discover the Charms of Kuldīga: Venta Rapid, Flying Fish, and Old Brick Bridge

30 April, 2024 | | 63 seen

Tucked away in the picturesque town of Kuldīga, Latvia, lies a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with historical charm: the Venta Rapid and Old Brick Bridge. Set amidst the tranquil surroundings of the Venta River, this enchanting destination offers visitors a glimpse into Latvia's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

At the heart of the experience is the Venta Rapid, one of Europe's widest waterfalls and a spectacle to behold. Here, the Venta River cascades over a series of limestone rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of rushing water and mist. During the summer months, the air is filled with the sound of cascading water, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely walks along the riverbank.

Spanning the Venta River is the iconic Old Brick Bridge, a historic landmark that dates back to the 19th century. Constructed from red brick and adorned with elegant arches, the bridge exudes a timeless charm that transports visitors back in time. Originally built for horse-drawn carts, the bridge now serves as a pedestrian walkway, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.

One of the most unique features of the Venta Rapid is its resident population of flying fish. These remarkable creatures, known as European smelts, navigate the turbulent waters of the waterfall with ease, using their powerful tails to propel themselves through the air. Visitors can often spot these airborne acrobats leaping from the water in pursuit of insects, creating a spectacle that is both mesmerizing and unforgettable.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Venta Rapid and Old Brick Bridge are steeped in history and folklore. According to local legend, the bridge was built by the devil himself, who agreed to construct it in exchange for the soul of the first living being to cross over it. However, clever villagers outsmarted the devil by sending a dog across the bridge first, saving themselves from eternal damnation.

Today, the Venta Rapid and Old Brick Bridge continue to enchant visitors from near and far, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Kuldīga or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Latvian countryside, a visit to this charming destination is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Tbilisi Market. Jiu Jitsu. Hiking in Birtvisi

25 April, 2024 | Living in Georgia | 64 seen

As the vibrant hues of spring paint the landscapes of Tbilisi, each weekend becomes an opportunity to immerse oneself in the city's blossoming beauty. With the warmth of the sun kissing the cobblestone streets and the scent of blooming flowers filling the air, my recent weekend escapade unfolded into a symphony of unforgettable moments.

Kicking off the weekend on an energetic note, intense Jiu Jitsu sessions provided both physical challenge and mental clarity. The dojo echoed with the sounds of focused determination as practitioners honed their skills, each movement a testament to discipline and resilience. Engaging in this martial art not only invigorated the body but also instilled a sense of inner strength and fortitude.

Venturing into the heart of Tbilisi's culinary scene, the Dezerteer market beckoned with its lively atmosphere and an array of fresh fruits and veggies. Amidst the bustling stalls adorned with colorful produce, I delighted in sampling the season's bounty—crisp cucumbers, succulent strawberries, and juicy peaches, each bite bursting with flavor and vitality. This vibrant marketplace not only tantalized the taste buds but also offered a glimpse into the rich agricultural heritage of Georgia.

On Sunday morning a tranquil hike at Birtvisi Canyon provided a serene retreat from the urban bustle. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rugged cliffs, the canyon's winding trails offered a welcome respite for weary souls seeking solace in nature's embrace. With each step, the rhythmic melody of birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves infused the air with a sense of serenity, grounding me in the present moment and igniting a profound appreciation for the natural world.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the landscape, I reflected on the beauty of life's simple pleasures. In a city where ancient traditions harmonize with modern pursuits, each moment becomes a canvas upon which memories are painted with vibrant hues. From the intensity of martial arts to the nourishment of fresh fare and the tranquility of nature's embrace, this weekend journey in Tbilisi has been a testament to the richness of the human experience.

As spring continues to unfurl its petals, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead, each one a chapter in the ever-evolving tapestry of life. In a world brimming with possibilities, every weekend offers a chance to embrace the beauty that surrounds us and savor the sweetness of existence.

Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs: Nature's Masterpiece on Latvia's Western Coast

23 April, 2024 | | 33 seen

Perched dramatically on the western coast of Latvia, the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs stand as a breathtaking natural wonder, captivating visitors with their rugged beauty and commanding views of the Baltic Sea. Carved over millennia by the relentless forces of wind and water, these majestic cliffs offer a glimpse into the geological history of the region while providing a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

I keep returning to the Jūrkalne seashore bluffs whenever I have the chance and while I'm in the area. The last time we visited Jūrkalne was after the Easter worship service at Puze Church, back at the end of March 2024

Rising up to 20 meters above the azure waters below, the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs offer a striking contrast between the lush greenery of the surrounding forests and the deep blue expanse of the sea. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes along the cliff tops, following well-marked trails that meander through dense woodlands and open meadows, offering panoramic vistas at every turn.

One of the highlights of a visit to the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs is the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Baltic Sea. As the golden hues of twilight cast their warm glow upon the cliffs, visitors can marvel at the beauty of nature's spectacle, a moment of tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty.

For the adventurous at heart, the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs offer ample opportunities for exploration and discovery. Rock climbers can test their skills on the rugged limestone cliffs, while kayakers can paddle along the base of the bluffs, admiring their towering grandeur from a unique vantage point.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs are also steeped in history and folklore. Legend has it that these cliffs were once home to ancient pagan rituals, and traces of these mystical traditions can still be felt in the air. Visitors can explore the nearby village of Jūrkalne, where quaint wooden houses and winding cobblestone streets offer a glimpse into Latvia's rich cultural heritage.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation, the Jūrkalne Seashore Bluffs offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As you stand atop these ancient cliffs, gazing out across the boundless sea, you'll be reminded of the enduring power and beauty of the natural world.

Spring Break in Latvia 2024

18 April, 2024 | Travel guides | 52 seen

Welcome to our latest adventure: "Spring Break in Latvia"! We're thrilled to share with you the beauty and excitement of our recent journey through this enchanting Baltic country. From the vibrant festivities of Vilgāle to the tranquil landscapes of Puze, our trip was filled with unforgettable moments that we can't wait to recount.

Our journey kicks off in Vilgāle, where we were greeted by the electrifying sight of fireworks illuminating the night sky during the Easter holidays. The air was filled with excitement and joy as locals and visitors alike came together to celebrate this cherished tradition. From colorful parades to traditional feasts, Vilgāle truly knows how to embrace the spirit of Easter.

After the hustle and bustle of Vilgāle, we sought serenity in the quaint village of Puze. Here, we immersed ourselves in the serene atmosphere of a church visit, marveling at the beautiful architecture and soaking in the tranquility of this peaceful setting. Puze provided the perfect escape from the chaos of modern life, allowing us to reconnect with our surroundings and find inner peace.

No trip to Latvia would be complete without exploring its breathtaking natural landscapes, and Jūrkalne did not disappoint. We spent blissful hours strolling along the seashore bluffs, feeling the cool breeze on our faces and marveling at the sheer beauty of our surroundings. The rugged cliffs and pristine beaches of Jūrkalne left us in awe of Mother Nature's majesty, reminding us of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.

Our adventure took a playful turn in Jēči, where we joined in on an Easter egg hunt that brought out the child in all of us. Laughter filled the air as we searched high and low for hidden treasures, bonding with locals and fellow travelers in the spirit of fun and camaraderie. The joy of discovery and the thrill of the hunt made for an unforgettable experience that we'll cherish for years to come.

As we journeyed through Latvia, we had the opportunity to explore a wealth of historic sites that truly brought the country's rich heritage to life. From constructing our frame house in Capšu Zeme to tending to the trees at a historic manor house, every moment was steeped in history and tradition. Places like Valka, Ērģeme, and Miciņi provided glimpses into Latvia's past, allowing us to connect with the land and its people on a deeper level.

Our "Spring Break in Latvia" was more than just a vacation – it was a journey of discovery, connection, and renewal. From the excitement of Vilgāle to the tranquility of Puze, we experienced the full spectrum of emotions and came away with memories that will last a lifetime. We invite you to join us on this thrilling adventure through the heart of Latvia, where every moment is a chance to reconnect with old friends and make new ones along the way. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the video of our unforgettable trip – and don't forget to give it a thumbs up!

Amber Fort, India

17 April, 2024 | Tourism objects | 96 seen

Amer Fort or Amber Fort is a fort located in Amer, Rajasthan, India. Amer is a town with an area of 4 square kilometres, located 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.

 Located high on a hill, it is the principal tourist attraction in Jaipur. Amer Fort is known for its artistic style elements. With its large ramparts and series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks Maota Lake,which is the main source of water for the Amer Palace.

We had a chance to visit Amber fort back in the end of 2023, during our about 3 weeks trip to India. As we were quite tired from Jaipur city tour, I insisted actually not to visit this site, but just to take a few photos from distance.

Amer Palace is great example of Rajput architecture. Some of its buildings and work have influence of Mughal architecture.

 Constructed of red sandstone and marble, the attractive, opulent palace is laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard. It consists of the Diwan-e-Aam, or "Hall of Public Audience", the Diwan-e-Khas, or "Hall of Private Audience", the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace), or Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over a water cascade within the palace. Hence, the Amer Fort is also popularly known as the Amer Palace.

The palace was the residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families. At the entrance to the palace near the fort's Ganesh Gate, there is a temple dedicated to Shila Devi, a Goddess of the Chaitanya cult, which was given to Raja Man Singh when he defeated the Raja of Jessore, Bengal in 1604. (Jessore is now in Bangladesh).

 Raja Man Singh had 12 queens so he made 12 rooms, one for each Queen. Each room had a staircase connected to the King’s room but the Queens were not to go upstairs. Raja Jai Singh had only one queen so he built one room equal to three old queen’s rooms.

This palace, along with Jaigarh Fort, is located immediately above on the Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) of the same Aravalli range of hills. The palace and Jaigarh Fort are considered one complex, as the two are connected by a subterranean passage. This passage was meant as an escape route in times of war to enable the royal family members and others in the Amer Fort to shift to the more redoubtable Jaigarh Fort.

Annual tourist visitation to the Amer Palace was reported by the Superintendent of the Department of Archaeology and Museums as 5000 visitors a day, with 1.4 million visitors during 2007.

At the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in 2013, Amer Fort, along with five other forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Puzes Lutheran Church

16 April, 2024 | Churches and Monasteries | 33 seen

Puzes Lutheran Church, a historic landmark, stands proudly in the village of Puze, located in the Ventspils Municipality of Latvia. Built in 1692, it has been a focal point of the community for centuries. The tower, added in 1806 following a devastating fire, rises above the picturesque landscape, serving as both a symbol of resilience and a beacon for worshipers.

My Godmather Raēla Rozīte is a priest of this church since 1989. I first visited Puze church and a worship service during Easter of 2024 when pastor Raēla Rozīte held a ceremony together with my mother, also pastor,  Sarmīte Fišere.

Above the entrance, four stone coats of arms from 1692 adorn the facade, each bearing testament to the church's rich history and significance. Despite the passage of time, the church has undergone careful restoration, with efforts commencing in 1986 and the congregation being fully reinstated by 1988.

The church's magnificent organ, crafted in 1844 by the skilled hands of Hermanis Liepāja, fills the sacred space with melodious hymns. In 1990, the organ underwent comprehensive restoration and expansion, ensuring its continued presence as a cornerstone of worship.

Legend intertwines with history in the tales surrounding the church, including the story of a baron purportedly selecting a young maiden for entombment within its walls. Adjacent to the church lies the final resting place of Johann Heinrich Kaluza (1799-1881), a revered scientist and entomologist. Notably, from 1835 onward, Kaluza also served as the pastor of Puzes, leaving an indelible mark on both the church and the community it serves.

Adding to the church's splendor is the altarpiece "The Descent from the Cross," painted by K. Vēbers in 1879, which stands as a testament to the enduring faith and artistic heritage of the region. Today, Puzes Lutheran Church continues to stand as a cherished landmark, welcoming visitors and faithful alike to experience its rich history and spiritual significance in the heart of Latvia's countryside.

From Online Bid to On-Site Discovery: Our Journey to Unveil the Property in Saldus

10 April, 2024 | Real Estate | 42 seen

Embarking on a real estate investment journey often involves navigating through twists and turns, with each step bringing us closer to our ultimate goal. For us, the story of our property in Saldus began with a successful online bid back in 2022—a pivotal moment that set the stage for an adventure filled with anticipation and excitement.

Securing the winning bid for a property in Saldus was a testament to our dedication and strategic approach to investment. However, as months turned into years, the tangible realization of our acquisition remained elusive. Despite our best efforts, unforeseen obstacles hindered our plans to visit the property and witness its potential firsthand.

One such setback occurred last spring when our rental T-cross found itself ensnared in the mud, thwarting our attempts to reach the property. Despite the setback, we remained undeterred, viewing it as a temporary setback on our path to discovery.

And so, armed with determination and a renewed sense of purpose, we embarked on yet another attempt to unveil the property in April 2024. This time, our efforts bore fruit as we successfully navigated the terrain and arrived at our destination.

Stepping onto the grounds of our property in Saldus, we were met with a sense of exhilaration and accomplishment. The journey that had begun with a simple online bid had culminated in this moment—a moment of triumph and validation.

As we explored the property, we were struck by its inherent beauty and potential. From the picturesque surroundings to the solid construction of the buildings, every aspect spoke volumes about the opportunities that lay before us.

But beyond the physical attributes of the property, it was the sense of possibility that truly captivated us. Standing amidst the tranquil surroundings of Saldus, we couldn't help but envision the myriad ways in which this property could be transformed into a thriving investment.

Looking back on our journey, we are reminded of the resilience and perseverance that fueled our pursuit. Despite the challenges and setbacks, we remained steadfast in our commitment to realizing the full potential of our investment.

As we reflect on our experiences, we are filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to embark on this adventure. From the excitement of securing the winning bid to the satisfaction of finally setting foot on the property, every moment has been a testament to the power of determination and vision.

Moving forward, we are eager to continue our journey of exploration and discovery, knowing that the property in Saldus holds the promise of endless possibilities. With each new challenge we encounter, we are reminded of the resilience that lies within us—and the boundless potential that awaits on the horizon.

A Day of Building and Recording: Installing Hardwood Floor in Latvia

4 April, 2024 | Frame House | 43 seen

As the sun rose over the picturesque landscape of Latvia, I found myself immersed in a fulfilling day of both physical labor and creative expression. With the mission of enhancing our frame house, I embarked on the task of installing hardwood flooring. But Thursdays are not just for construction; they're also for sharing insights and knowledge with the TerraMatris community. Join me as I recount a day filled with craftsmanship and content creation.

The rhythmic sound of hammering echoed through the serene surroundings as I set out to transform our home. The process of installing hardwood flooring is not merely about laying down planks; it's a labor of love that adds warmth and character to any space. With precision and patience, each piece was carefully placed, creating a seamless tapestry of natural beauty beneath our feet.

As I worked, memories intertwined with the present moment. I recalled the advice of craftsmen past, passed down through generations, echoing the importance of attention to detail and craftsmanship. From measuring twice and cutting once to ensuring proper alignment, every step was executed with care and dedication.

Amidst the steady progress, the aroma of freshly cut wood mingled with the crisp air, invigorating both body and soul. Each strike of the hammer felt like a tangible manifestation of progress, bringing us one step closer to the realization of our vision for the space.

With the hardwood flooring taking shape beneath my hands, the day transitioned seamlessly into another facet of my passion: sharing knowledge with the TerraMatris community. As the CEO and Founder of TerraMatris, it's essential to continually engage and educate our audience on the intricacies of the crypto world.

With laptop over rocksheet, I embarked on the creation of a YouTube video, eager to delve into the latest developments and insights within the realm of cryptocurrency. From market analysis to investment strategies, each recording serves as a beacon of knowledge for both seasoned traders and newcomers alike.

The creative process flowed effortlessly as I conveyed my thoughts and expertise to the digital realm. Behind every frame lies a commitment to transparency, integrity, and innovation, principles that guide TerraMatris in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of crypto finance.

 As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound sense of fulfillment that accompanies both physical labor and creative expression. From the installation of hardwood flooring to the recording of insightful content for TerraMatris, each endeavor serves as a testament to the power of passion and dedication.

In the tapestry of life, every thread represents a unique experience, woven together to create a masterpiece of growth and transformation. Whether building a home or a digital presence, the journey is defined not only by the destination but by the moments of joy, learning, and connection along the way.

So here's to Thursdays filled with craftsmanship and creativity, where the beauty of hardwood flooring meets the boundless potential of digital discourse. As the sun sets on another day in Latvia, I look forward to the adventures that await, both within the walls of our home and beyond.

Rainbow restaurant in Jaipur

28 March, 2024 | Restaurant reviews | 313 seen

Rainbow restaurant in Jaipur was a restaurant we were talking by our tour guide after wandering around the city of Jaipur for a few hours. 

Really delicious Indian cuisine and that KingFisher beer. As I was vegeterian and on intermittent fasting during our times in India I sticked with some simple fish masala and garlic naan accompanied by beer. Really delicious.

 Simple but elegant interior at Rainbow Jaipur restaurant

If there is a thing I discovered in India - then garlic naan with fish curry is among the top.

After having our lunch break we continued our discoveries in Jaipur before returning back to New Delhi in the evening.

City Palace of Jaipur

26 March, 2024 | Tourism objects | 219 seen

The City Palace, Jaipur is a royal residence and former administrative headquarters of the rulers of the Jaipur State in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

I had a chance to visit city palace of Jaipur in India back at the end of December 2023, during our about 3 week trip to India. We came here by foot from the Jantar Mantar observatory of Jaipur.

The palace complex lies in the heart of Jaipur city, to the northeast of the very centre. The site for the palace was located on the site of a royal hunting lodge on a plain land encircled by a rocky hill range, five miles south of Amber.

Construction started soon after the establishment of the city of Jaipur under the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who moved his court to Jaipur from Amber, in 1727.

Jaipur remained the capital of the kingdom until 1949—when it became the capital of the present-day Indian state of Rajasthan—with the City Palace functioning as the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

Luckily I didn't saw any snake this time, but music coming out from the flute was absolutely brilliant. It

The construction of the Palace was completed in 1732 and it was also the location of religious and cultural events, as well as a patron of arts, commerce, and industry. It was constructed according to the rules of vastushastra, combining elements of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.

I kindly asked guards to take a selfie

It now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and continues to be the home of the Jaipur royal family. The royal family has around 500 personal servants.[citation needed] The palace complex has several buildings, various courtyards, galleries, restaurants, and offices of the Museum Trust.The MSMS II Museum Trust is headed by chairperson Rajamata Padmini Devi of Jaipur (from Sirmour in Himachal Pradesh).

 Princess Diya Kumari runs the Museum Trust, as its secretary and trustee. She also manages The Palace School and Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh School in Jaipur. She founded and runs the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation to empower underprivileged and underemployed women of Rajasthan. She is also an entrepreneur. 

We spent some good time here. Quite touristic place, but very interesting too.

France / Paris / Marseille / Disneyland

21 March, 2024 | Travel guides | 51 seen

In the summer of 2023, my family embarked on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of France. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the serene lavender fields of Provence, our journey was a whirlwind of discovery, laughter, and cherished memories. But it wasn't just about experiencing the sights and sounds firsthand; it was about capturing those moments on film to relive and share with others.

Our adventure began in the City of Lights, where we immersed ourselves in the rich history and culture that Paris has to offer. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the artistic wonders of the Louvre, every corner we turned revealed a new treasure waiting to be explored. With our camera in hand, we documented every awe-inspiring moment, from sipping espresso at quaint cafes to strolling along the Seine at sunset.

But our journey didn't end there. We boarded the high-speed TGV train and whisked away to the vibrant port city of Marseille. As we soaked in the Mediterranean charm and sampled the local cuisine, we couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the French Riviera. From the bustling markets to the historic landmarks, Marseille captivated our hearts and inspired us to capture its essence on film.

Next, we ventured into the picturesque countryside of Provence, where endless fields of lavender stretched as far as the eye could see. Amidst the fragrant blooms and golden sunsets, we reveled in the tranquility of rural France, pausing to capture the beauty of nature in all its splendor. Each frame told a story of serenity and simplicity, reminding us of the beauty that lies beyond the bustling city streets.

As our journey drew to a close, we returned to Paris for a special celebration: Renee's 5th birthday at Disneyland. Amidst the laughter and excitement, we watched our daughter's face light up with joy as she experienced the magic of Disney. And as the fireworks illuminated the night sky, we knew that this moment would be forever etched in our hearts and captured on film for generations to come.

Now, as we share our video with the world, we invite you to join us on our journey through France. From the enchanting streets of Paris to the tranquil countryside of Provence, our film is a testament to the beauty and wonder that await those who dare to explore. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. And don't forget to give us a thumbs up if you're captivated by the magic of France. Bon voyage!

How To Generate Captions (Text to Speech) in Adobe Premiere Pro

20 March, 2024 | Digital Photography School | 55 seen

Lately I have been amazed by  the power of AI  and its capabilities in converting gibberish text-to speech into usable and readable articles. I keep recording YouTube videos for our Crypto hedge fund channel, I like YouTube as it generates auto caption from my spoken text. I then re-use this text with ChatGPT, making readable blog articles. 

Unfortunately, sometimes YouTube doesn't generate auto captions, don't know why, it happens. Thats how I discovered that Adobe Premiere Pro has function to export text to speech, which then can be reused again in the same Chat GPT, for example.

In this article I will share how to generate captions in Adobe Premiere Pro:

Open Adobe - > Create New project - > Import video -> Drag and drop your video to the timeline

Make sure your video is selected on the timeline, then from the actions windows (left upper corner) make sure to select Text and click on Create captions from transcript.

You will be prompted with a windows offering to customize your transcription settings, play around, or leave the default.

It may take few seconds to generate captions, now to make them usable you just need to export them

From the Captions window click on the three dots (...) - > Export and choose your preferred file format.

As I'm using captions for generating blog content, I then just paste this text in Chat GTP and play around.

Hope it helps!

Jantar Mantar observatory in Jaipur

19 March, 2024 | Tourism objects | 50 seen

The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur is a collection of 19 astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur, Rajasthan. 

The monument was completed in 1734. It features the world's largest stone sundial, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is near City Palace and Hawa Mahal. The instruments allow the observation of astronomical positions with the naked eye. The observatory is an example of the Ptolemaic positional astronomy which was shared by many civilizations.

I first visited this observatory back in December, 2023 during our about 3 week trip to India. We were taken here by a tour guide and spent some good two hours here. 

The monument features instruments operating in each of the three main classical celestial coordinate systems: the horizon-zenith local system, the equatorial system, and the ecliptic system The Kanmala Yantraprakara is one that works in two systems and allows transformation of the coordinates directly from one system to the other. It has the biggest sundial in the world.

The monument was damaged in the 19th century. Early restoration work was undertaken under the supervision of Major Arthur Garrett, a keen amateur astronomer, during his appointment as Assistant State Engineer for the Jaipur District.

The name jantar is derived from yantra a Sanskrit word, meaning "instrument, machine", and mantar from mantrana also a Sanskrit word "consult, calculate" Therefore, Jantar Mantar literally means 'calculating instrument'

The observatory consists of nineteen instruments for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking location of major stars as the Earth orbits around the Sun, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and determining the celestial altitudes and related ephemerides.

Built from local stone and marble, each instrument carries an astronomical scale, generally marked on the marble inner lining. Bronze tablets, bricks and mortar were also employed in building the instruments in the monument spread over about 18,700 square metres. It was in continuous use until about 1800, then fell in disuse and disrepair. Restored again several times during the British colonial rule, particularly in 1902, the Jantar Mantar was declared a national monument in 1948. It was restored in 2006. The restoration process in early 20th century replaced some of the original materials of construction with different materials.

How To Sell Covered Calls with Solana on ByBit

14 March, 2024 | Investments | 303 seen

ByBit is my new favorite crypto trading platform, I switched from Deribit to ByBit around August 2023, with the launch of TerraMatris crypto hedge fund. 

I like trading on Bybit because, unlike on the Deribit, options are settled in USDC, not in crypto itself, which makes it much easier to calculate and actually grow the portfolio.

In this article I will shed some light on how I'm selling covered call options on Solana using ByBit trading platform.

Book my Covered Calls Course | How to Generate Income from Options

Before that, make sure to check out my previous articles about options selling with Solana

• I'm making $0.21/daily* by selling covered calls on Solana coin
• How to Sell Covered Call Options with Solana on Deribit?

First things first - ByBit re-introduced Solana options on March 6, 2024, about a week ahead the Deribit, despite Deribit was the first announcing Solana options, already back in October 2023. In short both Deribit and ByBit already had Solana options, but they stopped issuing new contracts shortly after FTX crash back in November 2022.

Now, once we are done with history, lets dive in: 

As I already had 1 SOL coin in our crypto portfolio, it was no brainer to go and start generate some income from it, as we were   buying small bits with Solana during the past few weeks we had a nice buying price of slightly under $100 per coin, while the actual coin price was about $130. We were already gaining 30% from this holding (Sadly, we didn't bought 100x more) and now I just wanted to squeeze out some extra USDC by selling call options. 

Your case will be different, a popular covered call trading strategy is buy/write, something I would recommend to be really careful, especially with crypto. 

Once the Solana options were once again enabled on ByBit I opened following, 2 days to expiry call, option on Solana coin

Sold 1 SOL-8MAR24-146-C for 0.6

Let me translate that for you, on March 6,  I sold one call contract on Solana and with expiry on March 8, 2024 (2 days to expiry)  with a strike price of 146 for what I was rewarded with 0.6$ per contract. In total 0.60 (before commissions)

What happens next?

On the expiry date, March 8, 2024, SOL is trading under $146 per coin -  options expire worthlessly and I keep the premium and start over - if SOL trades above $146 on the expiry date, I pay the difference in USDC. Say SOL trades $150 on the expiry date, I will need to pay the difference between the spot price and strike price, which is $4.

But as our actual buying price for one SOL coin is just $99, we will actually make a huge gain of $47.

Now, as we already had SOL in our long term crypto portfolio, I look on  his covered call writing strategy as a form of passive income, and actually not encouraging on aggressive buy/sell approach. Something i have done a lot in the past, especially on stocks, unfortunately with quite mixed results.

But if you have few SOL laying around, why not generate some income from them?!

At Terramatris crypto hedge fund we sell both put and call options to boost our portfolio performance while investing in different crypto assets. Visit our website to learn more.