I ‘ve always been fond of fall. As nature takes on quite dramatic transformations in the most beautiful way possible, I guess, that’s how I also start feeling alive again, inspired, eager to up my productivity, excited to create, charged up to intensify my physical training. I love the most when I get outside, and I am able to breathe in that first fresh, crisp air, long missed after suffocating in the disgustingly hot and humid Toronto summer. That’s right, you heard me; it would be an understatement to say that I do not like summer, I would actually use the “h” word here even though I know it would be a sacrilege given the longevity of the cold and dark months in Canada. Don’t get me wrong; I too love to see everything becoming green and lush again, but if it’s gonna be accompanied by unbearable heat and sun with skin cancer written all over it, flocks of mosquitos in the countryside, no, thanks, I think I can live without summer altogether. A cold beer goes down smoothly even in the winter anyway, especially after a good run! It’s important to focus here on what really matters, right?
Thank you Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine!
This season also makes the knitting needles and yarn feel more natural in my hands, and the abundance of colors offered within every view inspires a cozy palette for the fall fashion. (I wrote more about it here.) I don’t think it’s a coincidence that I started an online shop for my mixed media fashion jewelry which features knitted beads precisely one autumn a few years back, but this year, the celebration of the season became extra special when I received D package. On its cover, it said: ” Congratulations! You’ve been published!” enclosing the “artist complementary” issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine from the United States.
My Gosh you guys, I’ve been published! Thanks to managing editors who reached out to me earlier this year, there is a 4-page article about Sgravalli in their latest issue, featuring two of my statement necklaces and a story I was asked to write. You can review it here, slide through pages left or right.
I am feeling so humbled to be invited to be a part of this publication among many other so talented artists and their amazing work. I cannot thank enough Kelly, Amber and the entire team of Stampington & Company for collecting such a pool of inspiration packaged in this fancy magazine, which is just one of the many in their production. In the United States, you can pick up this issue until the end of November of 2018 at any of the Barnes and Noble stores or many specialty craft stores, and for us here in Canada and the rest of the world, the magazine can be purchased online. Follow the link right here.
One small step at a time
You know, after I started running marathons, I started understanding other life events the same way. What happened here is just the perfect example; while I hope my story will inspire somebody else to pursue their passions, I must say that this recognition inspired me as well to keep dreaming, keep doing, progressing one small step at a time, because many small steps will accumulate to a mountain of success and everlasting joy. In all this, I cannot forget about my family and friends, especially those back home in Europe, whose love, trust and encouragement stood the test of time even after 12 years of living apart, who were the first ones to support me in giving my passion a shot. This is particularly dear to my heart because there were also those who had everything against it, to put it politely.
So, remember who you are, dear friend, remember what makes you happy, remember your dreams, be smart, culture patience, work hard, celebrate even the smallest accomplishments and surround yourself with positive folks.
This October, my birthday sure feels happier as a published artist, but it will always be happy as long as I have my loved ones in my life. 42 and fabulous! Life is good.
Cheers!