This past winter we traveled to Vietnam and were inspired by the beautiful H’mong and Dzao women of Sapa Vietnam. On the weekends crowds flock to the Sapa market where you can find the women selling handmade textiles, jewelry and souvenirs. The young women we met were real characters, always smiling as they carried colorful goodies on their back. Though they were sweet, don’t be fooled. They make their living through their street smarts and expert ability to sell you just about anything they hand-make. Before you know you it, you have bartered and purchased much more than expected ;)

We took a hike through the rice terraces where a group of H’mong women tagged along and helped lead the way through the terrain which was quiet difficult. Their hands never stopped moving, every time we stopped for a water break they pulled out their needlework. Their textile techniques include; cross stitching, weaving, indigo dyeing and batik. We love their vibrant textiles against the muddy green rice terrace landscape.

Just got back from one of the most enchanting places in the world, New Mexico. The state get’s it’s captivating recognition from it’s desert, Native American culture, magic, spiritual superstitions, and science fiction – all of which make my heart flutter and really hit home. The traditional designs of the native culture are prominent in the use of pottery, jewelry, textiles, architecture and artwork that reflect the history and stories of the tribes. My favorite place to visit  handmade turquoise and silver jewelry is Skip Maisel’s. Here you can find works of art from the Apache, Hopi, Pueblo, Navaho and Zuni just to name a few. Nemat Galleries is a great place to find one of a kind vintage Navajo and oriental rugs.

The most beautiful experience while visiting, was the small and hidden chapel of Old Town Albuquerque in a secret alley founded in 1709. The Chapel is made of traditional adobe where you can find prayer candles and notes to loved ones on the alter. The quite beauty of the space is lit from one window which is a large circular geometric stained glass in vibrant colors. We love the bold turquoise, greens, blues and red accents mixed with the architecture of the soft adobe clay.

Also, two things not to miss is the Frontier Restaurant’s Green Chilli Stew. It will knock the socks off you and the location is also perfect for people watching.  Peep inside of the Rattle Snake Museum in Old Town – cool fossils, dino’s and reptiles.

Can’t wait to go back and visit family. Next time we are coming back with some hand painted pottery! Saving up! #broke

Summer love is in the air and a wedding in Palm Beach was the perfect excuse for us to take a little 3 day weekend trip and have some fun in the sun. The Art Deco architecture of the mansions and condos is always a favorite to see while cruising along the shoreline. I loved the pallet of all the Florida pastels and soft colors of the ocean mixed in with the bright tropical flowers used in all the gated entry ways.