Tag: torontoblogger

Top 5: Luxury Handbag Wishlist 2023
So apparently, I’m a handbag collector now because my closet has grown significantly over the past few years. Mostly during quarantine, which technically means I can blame the lockdown for all my online window shopping… that eventually turned into cart checkouts.

I know, I know! I can’t help it.
A favourite hobby of mine is shopping.
It’s in my blood. I’ve accepted my fate.

And I can’t be mad at it.

📷: Pinterest

Now, before we get to the good stuff, let’s get the pleasantries and catch up out of the way.

If you are new here, welcome!
If you are a returning reader, I hope you’re doing well. I know I said I’d be writing more and only posted 2 blogs last year, but at least my ghosting didn’t last as long as the last MIA.

On that note, Happy New Year! Hope you had a lovely 2022.
Hope 2023 is going awesome for you so far.

I had a bit of a rough start, but we are trying to get our boujee ass on track, make that shmoney so we can continue looking and living fabulously. Plus, I’m itching to do some traveling this year – potentially solo travel – because I need to refresh and reset my nervous system.

Side note: Did you know that was a thing? Resetting your nervous system because it harbours trauma which is a reason why we have anxiety? So much to learn… but I digress.

📷: Pinterest

Ok let’s get to the fun stuff!

Here are some pretty little things that have been on my radar.

Some of these you may consider basic or older styles, but I am trying to be more selective with my purchases so I can build my curated handbag collection.

Right? I said curated. I’m trying to be fancy, but also because I know that sometimes I get distracted by trendy or colourful things, when I simply require a black leather bag and yet, all I have are rainbow sequins.

📷: Pinterest

Now without further ado, and in no particular order, here are my top 5 handbags for 2023 that are on my current wishlist. Plus, some honourable mentions that may be a more affordable option with a similar style.

Top 5 Luxury Handbag Wishlist

Gucci, Aphrodite
Surprisingly enough, I’m still yet to make a handbag purchase from one of my favourite luxury brands. And with Alessandro Michele’s recent departure from Gucci, I do want to add one of his designs to my collection before they’re completely off the shelves. I’ve always eyed the GG Marmont shoulder bag or the super mini Dionysus, but for some reason never made the commitment. And now that I’ve waited this long, I can’t justify paying that price increase knowing what I could have bought it at. Side note: have we seen current the prices of Chanel?? Deceased.

I was going to settle for an Ophidia GG mini bag, which I’ll probably still get since I like that the canvas material makes it a more casual, everyday bag, but then the Aphrodite was introduced. And this is one I think I’m ready to commit to.

While I prefer the price of the shoulder bag, I do like having the option of the removeable long strap and chain handle of the small shoulder bag. Though, I’ll be happy with either or.

Honorable mention:
Maison Margiela, Glam Slam Hobo

I’ve always been a fan of John Galliano’s extravagant designs while he was at Dior. And while the Maison Margiela style is not for everyone, I do love their line of glam slam bags.

I currently own the mini red carpet and I think the look is so cute. Plus, the leather is so soft and cushiony. So when I saw they recently released this hobo style, I knew I might have to add this pillowy goodness to my collection.

When it’s on sale of course.

Givenchy, Mini G-Hobo
Givenchy will always have my heart when it comes to handbags. I think I’m up to 5 now. I really didn’t know much about the brand until Riccardo Tisci came into the picture and I laid my eyes on the Antigona. Some may think it’s old news, overrated or played out, but I think it’s become such a classic style for the brand.

Then, to be honest, I wasn’t really feeling any designs from Givenchy after Tisci left, but it wasn’t until recently that my eyes are starting to perk up again. Seems Mr. Matthew M. Williams has gotten me curious about the direction of this brand with a few of their newest pieces. Some designs are still questionable for my taste, but so far I’m really into the mini Voyou. While I love a good shoulder/crossbody option, I do love a grab and go look, and this mini G-Hobo looks like it’s it for me.

Seriously, that blue? Ex-squeeze me? I think we found our 6th member of the group. I know I’ll probably have to baby the bag because of the colour, but I love how simple and no-fuss the design looks. Like, just take my money already.

Honorable mention:
Kara, Crystal Fringe Bean

I’m a sucker for sparkles so anything with a little (or a lotta) rhinestones and bling will obviously catch my eye.

And Kara is doing it right. This brand’s embellished handles has been on my radar, but what got me about this style is the way these crystals will cascade off your shoulder like a sparkly waterfall.

My only concern is the crystals getting caught in my hair or clothes, but I would rock this with a simple cotton t-shirt and jeans/leggings vibe and then have this to make my outfit pop.

Mugler, Spiral Curve
Ok, so the only thing I really knew about Mugler was their iconic Alien perfume – which surprisingly I don’t own. Then, it wasn’t until I saw Kim Kardashian at the 2019 MET Gala that sparked my curiousity in the brand’s clothing designs. Shortly after, I started seeing this name more and more with their show-stopping spiral leggings (that I’m sure half the people out there are wearing Fashion Nova dupes). While I do love them, if I’m being completely realistic, at the end of the day I have no business wearing these anywhere I need to go in life. So a bag would be a better suited introduction to the brand.

Now… enter the Spiral Curve handbag. This is the first handbag designed for Mugler and all I can say is yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!

I know this bag is probably looked at as trendy because of the the design, but that’s what I love about it – the curves. It looks so futuristic and alien-like, which is genius for the brand – for obvious reasons.

I’ll have to see this bag in person to actually get a feel for the structure and design. Plus, I want to know what the inside looks like because I have no gage if this bag can actually hold a wallet or cell phone. Though, another thing I’m a sucker for is denim bags. There’s just something so cool and casual about them, yet they go with everything. So this mix of denim and leather on this design just makes sense to me. And it would make more sense if it were in my closet.

Honorable mention:
Jacquemus, Le Bisou

We’ve all seen the Chiquitos take over our IG feeds the past couple of years. Honestly, I wasn’t a huge fan of that bag, but I did like the Bambinos line. However, I didn’t want to jump on the bandwagon just because.

Then they came out with this. There’s something about this specific handle that I’m drawn to and it will get bonus points if it’s removeable so I can attach my own crossbody chain.

My only hesitation is how skinny the bag is. I really don’t carry a lot, but I also don’t want my phone or Fenty lip gloss to be poking at the leather.

Celine, Ava
@s_pasquali
Celine is another brand that I never noticed until the Luggage Tote and Box Bag took over all the handbag collection videos I used to watch on YouTube. And I know there are a lot of die hard Phoebe Philo fans out there because of it. Omgosh, maybe YouTube is what subconsciously contributed to my growing closet? Damn, the power of the influencer.

Previously overlooking this fashion house, I think with the switch up from crossbody to shoulder bags and the simplicity of their logo, I’m finding myself drawn to the Ava line. And it wasn’t until I saw this bag in person that I had to put it on my wishlist. You know, we’re a logo ho at heart.

Honorable mention:
Ganni, Knot

This is a more casual take on the crescent moon shaped bags with a fun twist with the knot detailing. If you’re not feeling the black, it does come in a lot of bright, fun colours. There is a mini pink one that obviously calls to me, but we’re trying to be more selective, remember?

Also, there is this crinkly, velvet textured version which is pretty cute if the baguette size is too large for you.

Valentino, Locò
@tamara
The rockstud era of Valentino is what drew me to the brand. I once considered buying their signature Rockstud Ankle Strap pump for my wedding in rose gold sequins instead of leather, but the $1400+ price tag wasn’t doing it for me. Plus, I ended up finding the sale of a lifetime with my wedding Loubous. See here to read all about that!

I always admired Valentino’s rockstud bags, but it wasn’t until they introduced the Roman Stud version that I really wanted one. And then, Pierpaolo did the whole Pink PP Collection thing? Stop. That whole line is my fashion spirit animal.

Now, I did manage to get my hands on the delicious Roman Stud small quilted shoulder bag, which then opened up my tastebuds for more. So next I’m eyeing something in the Locò line. I do prefer the razzle dazzle of sequins, but my credit card is bringing me back down the earth with the canvas Toile Iconographe. So if this ever goes on sale, we might have to add to cart!

Honourable mention:
Fendi, Baguette

Ok, this is probably the only exception to my honourable mentions as this isn’t really a more affordable option. However, if I’m being true to my wishlist, it’s honestly a toss up between this mini Jacquard FF Baguette and the Valentino Locò.

Baguettes are having their moment, especially since the 25th anniversary celebration. So, it’s only right to add a piece to my collection. Plus, Fendi was founded in Rome, which is where I like to shop when we go to Italy to visit family, so it’s pretty much part of my heritage. And I can’t upset my ancestors, right?

And thus concludes our list.

Of course, it’s still early on in the year so I don’t know what other goodies or fashion collabs and/or surprises will be coming out in the following months, but so far I think I have a decent list. And I’m going to try to stick to it. Meaning, I’ll try not to buy any other luxury handbag design this year that’s not on the list. Try being the key word.

I’m hoping to be a little more selective this year, hence my pursuit of the curated closet. Especially if I go to the outlets or anything, I’m going to have to tell myself no. You know how those 60% off Kate Spade or Coach sales usually get me. We’re practicing will power this year.

Anywho… what’s on your handbag wishlist? What recent additions to your collection have you made? Or, do you currently have a curated collection? Leave your comments below!

On that note, I’ll see you soon in the next post. I’m saying soon, so I can hold myself accountable and make sure I continue posting.

And again, hope 2023 has been treating you good so far!

xo
Stephanie

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Top 5: Luxury Handbag Wishlist 2023

by luxeandloaded March 16, 2023

Current Mood: forBitches (…am I that b*tch?)

by luxeandloaded August 5, 2022

Hello. I missed you ♥️

by luxeandloaded June 3, 2022
March 16, 2023
Current Mood: forBitches (…am I that b*tch?)
How do you discover a new brand?

I love seeing what’s new in luxury and learning what’s trending out in the fashion world. And I while I have my trusted go-to brands I enjoy browsing online and obsessing over their runway looks, I also like to mix up my style with some up and coming/underground brands (which are realistically more in my price range).

And what’s sometimes the best way to discover something new?
Accidentally.

I first came across forBitches earlier this year when I was online window shopping on italist. I was looking for a new brand to obsess over and wasn’t feeling the ones that were being fed to me on social media. Not knowing where to start, I scrolled the designer list, came across ‘F’ and there it was – ‘Forbitches’.

I laughed to myself and clicked on the name as I was curious to see what was designed for these so-called ‘bitches’. And with one glance, I loved the concept instantly.

Plastic Barbie looking purses and shoes.

Like, excuse me? Tugging at the heartstrings of my 8 year old self?
How dare you. I want it all now.

Unfortunately, I had just been on a handbag shopping spree and didn’t need another one to add to the collection. Especially, since I knew nothing about this brand other than I liked the name.

So I did my research.

Italian designer. Label is a play on his real name ‘Forbice’.
Designs inspired by toys and dolls.
Very girly. Very nostalgic.
Literally a life size Barbie bag.
I. Need. This. Now.

Now, I can already tell this brand is not for everybody. Once it grows in popularity, I predict the traditional luxury world will describe it as very kitschy. Or, gaudy. Or, even childish. And after scrolling through their IG, I wasn’t sure if it was for me either.

Though, something about that bow bag was calling me.

So, I put it on my mental wish list in hopes I would have an excuse to buy it for the summer.

And low and behold, a wedding invitation arrives in the mail weeks later. Of course, I had no idea what my outfit or shoes would be, but I knew damn well what bag I was bringing.

Now that I needed this bag for ‘wedding purposes,’ I had to make sure it was practical as it was cute, but where in the heck would I find this bag in-store? Unfortunately, while it’s so easy to discover new things on the internet, it’s not always tangible or available in your area. So I couldn’t try it on and get the full picture.

There were also no YouTube videos or reviews on this bag. And the select few I found, almost no one opened the bag to show what could fit inside. People… always open the bag and show us what can fit!

So once again I had to be my own guinea pig and blind buy – just like the time when no one was doing lash extensions and I wanted to try them, but had no experiences to fall back on so I just had to go and hope my lashes didn’t fall or burn off. Well, after that success, almost everyone around me started getting extensions and then they blew up to what they are today… but I digress.

After scouring the internet and social media, I finally found someone who showed they could at least fit their phone and credit card inside. Perfect! I found the best deal on italist, clicked ‘order’ and let me tell you, I was not disappointed when it arrived in the mail.

Even the little booklet is comes with has this nostalgic Barbie doll pamphlet feel to it!

Love everything about it.

I decided to wear all black to the wedding, so this bag would definitely go with my LBD. Also, on casual days, if I wanted to throw on pair of jeans and a t-shirt, I know this would be a super cute accessory.

Hello?
Do we see the black bow with the pop of hot pink for the handles?

Obsessed.

I’m not going to lie, there were moments I thought that maybe I should go more elegant or traditional with a sparkly clutch or Alexander Wang/Benedetta Bruzziches style bag for this wedding. That maybe I would be that girl who everyone questioned my taste and secretly made fun of my plastic bag. That perhaps this was a bit too childish for me.

However, Wang was out of my price range and I’m still on the fence about purchasing Amazing dupes/imitations of luxury goods (I just can’t bring myself to do it yet).

So, I didn’t go that route.

And honestly, I don’t care if people make fun of this bag because I love it.

Yes, I am that b*tch with the Barbie bag.
And this was made forBitches.

Now please enjoy some more pics below.
Until next time!

xo
Stephanie

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August 5, 2022
Hello. I missed you ♥️
Ok, sooo… what happened?

I can’t be the only one to wonder, what the heck happened these past 2 years? Like, one minute I’m sitting at my work desk answering phone calls, the next minute our city goes into lockdown. From what I recall, I happily packed up my things to take home, thinking we just landed an awesome 2 week March break. Then next thing you know – cue actual world pandemic and fast forward 2 years.

Like, whaaat?

It’s been pretty much surreal. I don’t need to reiterate, as majority of us probably experienced the same thing, but all I remember was going in and out of multiple lockdowns, learning to work from home, binging Tiger King, tie dying, trying IG coffee trends, TikTok hacks and accumulating an amazing wardrobe of cozy sets and athletic sweats.

Matching set: Aritzia

Now, let’s catch up.

2020? Manageable.

As mentioned above, it was all tie dye, sweats and dalgona coffees.

2021 on the other hand? A nightmare.

Ok I’m being dramatic.
Or, maybe not.
But it definitely wasn’t the best of years.

Within a year, I had worked 3 different positions in the same company, essentially landing the ‘dream job’ that, I guess, I had been working towards my whole career with them. While I am grateful for the experience, it was challenging to say the least. The restructuring of departments and various positions basically gave me a workload that previously would have been a 6 person job.

Many sleepless nights. Many bathroom cry breaks.
These became weekly rituals.

I was officially burnt out and running on empty.

Then once I finally found myself in the groove of things, they let me go.

📷: Pinterest

With all the changes that happened/were happening within the company it was expected. I was prepared, but it was still surreal to hear those words.

They say everyone should get fired at least once in their life. That it builds character and… (insert whatever quote here about life lessons and the universe). At least for my sanity, it wasn’t because of my performance or incompetency. I know I’m super creative and have a damn good work ethic. And no one can take that from me.

📷: Pinterest

What else?

Well, not only was I grieving the loss of my job, I was also grieving the loss of my bestie.

Oh yes, within days of each other I found myself jobless and petless.

When it rains, it pours.
Right?

Last year was a pretty rough year for my little furry friend. We enjoyed a nice last summer together, but sadly I had to say goodbye after 13 wonderful, floofy years. As stressful as it was learning a new position while working from home, I am super appreciative for the fact that I was home and was able to spend those extra moments with her. Screw coffee breaks when you have pet the floof breaks.

Those were my favourite.

Anyways, I’ve been a little lost since then. It’s like a part of my identity is gone, but I’m trying to navigate what my next chapter should be. Or, even how to start it for that matter. It’s taking a little longer than expected, but as they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

In the meantime…

Hello again. Sorry for ghosting you for 2 years, but I’m hoping we can pick up where we left off. There’s so much to say… and so many shopping goodies to share 😉

Until next time, please enjoy some of my favourite floof pics.

Talk soon.

xo
Stephanie

My girl, Cookie 😇♥️

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June 3, 2022
FAB FINDS Feat. Bath & Body Works
I’ve said it before – sales will forever be the death of my wallet.

Yes, I technically am the sole culprit, but retailer emails are definitely the accessory!

Though, it’s worth for my inbox to be flooded with subscriptions because sometimes they offer such great deal for insiders! – I just don’t need triple daily reminders *ahem* Groupon.

Left to Right: Limoncello, Cactus Blossom, Watermelon Lemonade & Midnight Blue Citrus

Based on the feature, you’re all probably expecting this to be a candle haul, but it’s not. And I surprisingly don’t own any B&BW candles. I know everyone goes nuts over their 3 wick candle sales, but I’ve had my eye on something else.

Recently, I’ve been in search of a new freshening room smell. My only scent had been bae’s old Eucalyptus Mint from Bath & Body Works.

And I officially can’t stand it.

So I made my way over to B&BW in the mall and spent ten minutes spraying all their fun scents in the air. Then I realized you can pretty much smell the cap without creating fragrance overload, but also… they have fragrance cards – oopsies!

Anywhos, they only sell the standard mini size now for $8 (1.5 oz). Which I thought was reasonable to try. So I narrowed it down to 2 – and just before I purchased it I said to myself,

‘I bet these are going to go on sale soon’

And 2 weeks later they did.
For $3.50.
So I went back.

I bought more of course!

They have so many options to choose from that are nice for all year round, but I wanted especially for Spring/Summer. I find them great to add just a little spritz of fresh aroma to any room when it needs a pick me up – hello, stale winter air anyone?

My faves at the moment are Cactus Bloom and Midnight Blue Citrus.

And honourable mention goes to Watermelon Lemonade… mmmm so yum.

I even got one called Happiness. It’s a more masculine scent for bae, that he can keep in his car.

What are your favourite sprays? Did any of you catch the sale? Let me know in the comments below!

But first, check out all my new scents!

xo
Stephanie

Watermelon Lemonade & Midnight Blue Citrus

Limoncello & Aloha Kiwi Passionfruit

Aromatherapy: Happiness

Midnight Blue Citrus & Endless Weekend

Bath & Body Works – Concentrated Room Spray
Limoncello
Cactus Blossom
Watermelon Lemonade
Midnight Blue Citrus
Aloha Kiwi Passionfruit
Endless Weekend
Aromatherapy: Happiness

Original Retail Price: $8 + tax each
Sale Price: $3.50 + tax each
Savings: $5.08 each

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March 31, 2019
Casual-tees

I’ve only ever worn t-shirts at home while bumming around. Though lately they’ve become a staple in my every day wardrobe.

Especially when I travel. They’re good on hot days where I can wear them on their own. And they’re good for cold days when the chilly weather calls for layering.
Dress them up, dress them down. Tuck them in, or leave it out… Damn. I feel like I just wrote a line for a song. I may have a #1 in the makings people. You heard it here first!

Sidetracked.

As I was saying…
Now, I have always been a Guess girl. Except, I usually opt for their more obvious girly and fashionable clothing, but I’ll admit they’ve got some nice men’s t-shirts. So it helps when bae has a few casual tees that I can ‘borrow’ – and sometimes keep in my closet. And since I like my t-shirts baggy, and loose fitting, it’s perfect! Sometimes I help him decide what shirts to purchase by deciding what looks good on me. Cuz let’s face it, bae’s wardrobe is my wardrobe. That’s just the rules of the universe.

And as we know, travelling calls for some early mornings. And sometimes deciding what to wear can take up some precious time.

So when in doubt, I go for a simple logo tee. You can’t go wrong with that!

xo
Stephanie

Shirt – Guess

Shirt – Guess

T-Shirt: GUESS
Shorts: Forever 21
Shoes: Nike

T-Shirt: GUESS x A$AP Rocky
Ripped Jeans: Forever 21
Shoes: Superga

November 6, 2017
(Playing) Fashionista in Venezia

A major reason I was uber excited to take this trip to Italy was so I could get new pictures and content for Instagram. We live in a time and age where updating social media and creating great content is absolutely vital when trying to gain or maintain a following. I mean, do it for the gram, right?

Now, I don’t usually plan complete looks when I go on vacation. I kind of throw pieces into my luggage and hope for the best. Most of the time it doesn’t work out – which is the perfect excuse for a shopping break! Though, depending on the itinerary and if there is a special site I’m visiting or activity I’m doing, I may have a special outfit in mind.

For Venice, I had this one unworn floral blouse that’s been sitting in my closet for at least a year – story of my life. And when packing I knew, that was the blouse I wanted to wear for taking pictures in front of San Marco. It just has the perfect flow and aesthetic to match the beauty of the piazza. Pigeons and all.

On our last day there bae and I woke up bright and early and were out the door by 7am. Mission: to get some nice pictures at San Marco while avoiding the loads of tourists that may block my perfect shot.

So it was only fitting that wear my floral blouse and take some OOTD pics.

xo
Stephanie

San Marco

Blouse: Forever 21
Shorts: Forever 21
Shoes: Forever 21
Sunglasses: Givenchy

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October 1, 2017
Venice Steals My Heart

There’s something in the air that makes me fall more in love with Venice every time I visit.

Maybe it’s the history. Maybe it’s the culture. Maybe it’s the art or luxury. Or, maybe it’s the sense of mystery you come across as you walk through the narrow streets.

Whatever the reason is, my heart belongs in Venice.

Early morning by the Rialto

I had never stayed there overnight until this past trip. I usually lodge in nearby cities, like Padova or Mestre, but this time around we spent three nights in this beautiful city and I only wish I had done so earlier.

We rented an apartment which was walking distance to the train and bus terminal, so carrying luggage wasn’t such a hassle. Though, going up and down all those bridges, can get annoying. So it was good to have some man power – thanks bae!

It was also very affordable. Three nights split amongst two couples brought the total to around $380 per couple. Which is a steal, since some hotels can charge that a night! Plus, it gave me a chance to pretend I lived there, even if it was for that short period of time.

Morning views ♥

Waking up every morning to a ringing bell tower and terracotta rooftops was a dream. There was a grocery store around the corner from our apartment so we were able to make breakfast in our straight out of IKEA catalogue kitchen. And with the all day outings, it was convenient to be able to walk home instead of racing against time because you had catch a train back to your hotel.

Saving Venice for last was the perfect way to end our trip. It is inevitably one of my favourite cities I’ve visited and continues to steal a piece of my heart every time I go.

Check below for a few pics I snapped!

xo

Stephanie

Venetian masks

Venetian masks

The Rialto

Piazza San Marco

San Marco

Piazza San Marco

Views of the Gran Canale from the Rialto Bridge

My spirit animal. If only I had room in my luggage to bring you home!

Tip: If you want to capture moments with as few people as possible, then go early mornings. We made our way over the Rialto to Piazza San Marco before 8am. There were already people there, but most tour groups were present by 9am. So I was able to to get some nice solo shots and OOTD photos which you will see in an upcoming post. Stay tuned!

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September 5, 2017
Hiking to the Heavens

I’m not one for camping, but I don’t mind going on a nature hike every once in a while. Especially when the views are gorgeous, it’s totally worth the climb.

Now, in Tivoli, there’s a cross that sits on top of a hill that overlooks the town. And I always see it from the train station, but never thought it was reachable. Until one year I went hiking up that trail with my dad and bae. We took a wrong turn and didn’t end up at the top, but after seeing the view, I told myself that next time I’m getting all the way to the cross.

And that I did.

It’s quite the hike since I’m no mountain climber and definitely wasn’t wearing the right shoes (bad moment to break in my new Keds!), but after following the marked path, we reached the croce.

Happy with my accomplishment, it was nice to sit down and soak it all in. There was something humbling about the experience because sitting below the cross were a bunch of papers with hand-written prayer intentions. It made me feel almost connected to those people because even though their home is halfway across the world from mine, we’re all still human and experience the same feelings of life, love and loss.

prayers from Tivoli

prayers from Tivoli

As bae was off shooting a music video with my brother-in-law, it gave me time to take some photos and really appreciate the scenery in front of me. And I don’t know if I was just on a vacation high, or reading some of the prayers, but I swear I had an epiphany. There’s something about being away from home and engulfing myself in a different culture that allows me time to reflect and be stress free, just for a moment.

The past year has been a little difficult for me. Especially from last summer to the first couple of months of 2017. I lost my grandmother and pet chinchilla within 2 months of each other last year. My grandmother had been living with my family on and off since I was about 5. And my chinchilla was my first pet that I had for almost 10 years. So it was really hard to cope, but I had to push through those feelings because there were so many other things happening around me that I didn’t have time to pause and actually mourn.

So I put it aside. I focused on other things like work, because I was hopeful and holding out for a position that I thought I was a candidate for. After months of being told to be patient, and applying and going through the interviewing process two separate times, I didn’t get it.

And that crushed me.

I was so overwhelmed with disappointment that all those feelings I bottled up were starting to surface and I broke.

I desperately needed to get away. I needed a break. So I was counting the days until my trip. And it really helped. Plus, something major happened on this trip that I’ll go into more details in future posts, but I’m thankful I had the opportunity to travel and refresh my mind. And being at the top of Tivoli looking down made me realize I am so small in this world. I can’t wait or count on others to tell me my worth. I have to do it for myself. Appreciate myself. Believe in myself and what I want to accomplish in this life. It’s not going to come easy. I have to work for what I want. Maybe harder than others, but I don’t want to waste anymore time. I don’t want to be stuck in a place just going through the motions. I want to start living my best life, so I can experience more moments like I did climbing to the top of that cross.

The pictures don’t really do it justice, but here are some of the photos I took looking down upon Tivoli.

xo

Stephanie

Tivoli

Tivoli

August 13, 2017
A Sucker for Sunsets

There’s something about a sunset that’s so calming and peaceful. Watching the way the blue sky changes colours within seconds. Blending and intertwining with one another without separation as if they all fit together perfectly. So picturesque.

Though, what I love most about a sunset is the moment the sun touches the horizon. It makes me think it’s something attainable. That if I were to quickly run to the ends of the earth, I’d be able to reach out and feel it with just the tip of my finger… but then I remember that’s impossible because the earth is round. And the earth and sun are in space. And space is infinite. Which freaks the crap out of me. Because how that is possible?!… No? Only me having those thoughts? Anyways!

So I stop thinking about it and come back down to earth.

One of my favourite places to see the sun set in Tivoli is at the Panoramica. Just at the top of these 75 steps from my dad’s house, it’s a long walkway covered by trees to one side, but the other side overlooks all the towns below since Tivoli sits on top of a hill.

And so, watching the sun set here is something I always look forward to. It gives me a moment to pause whatever I’m doing or, wherever I’m going, and just admire.

Here are some of the moments I caught from my most recent trip.

xo

Stephanie

La Panoramica

Sunset in Tivoli

Sunset in Tivoli

Sunset in Tivoli

July 2, 2017
Home Away From Home

I grew up with the privilege of having travel bugs for parents. We haven’t been all over the world, but I’ve been lucky enough to have visited some amazing cities and experience different cultures.

Though, one place that will always be a second home to me is my father’s hometown of Tivoli. He was the only one of his family to have moved abroad and so we go back to visit when we can.

Situated just east of Rome, it’s a lovely town that sits on top of a hill filled, with ancient history, picturesque views and a lively community. Plus, the gelato at every corner is a total bonus!

Here are some moments from my recent visit. Enjoy!

xo
Stephanie

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

*Note: All photos were taken by me and mostly captured during the early mornings.

June 25, 2017