This past Wednesday, my family and I had the pleasure of going to Chimayo (a tiny little town in northern New Mexico) and visiting the Chimayo Shrine, which was constructed around 1816. I had a lot of fun with the family, we rarely take road trips so this one was much appreciated.
While visiting, I channeled my inner rodeo girl and sort of sneaked in a picture on top of the buffalo, which I guess you're not supposed to do because the sculpture is in "holy" ground but I just couldn't resist! I blame it all on the motorcycle jacket...it brings out my naughty side...ha!

It really was such a lovely day. We had a picnic right next to the Chimayo church, the cool air was blowing, and it was so quiet and serene. I definitely miss it! On our way back we stopped by a camel "looking" rock formation. I can't remember the exact name of it, but there's a casino right in front named after it. People in New Mexico love casinos!

What I was wearing:

Motorcycle Jacket - Thrifted
Olive Green Sheer Blouse - Thrifted
Black tights- Target
Lace-up Combat Boots - Ross
Etienne Aigner Leather Bag - Thrifted

"Found At The Thrift Store" Is a new section in which I'll show you exactly that..what I found at the second hand store! There really isn't anything else to do in town except to go out and see what good deals you can find. I'm so happy I finally listened to my family and went to the stores with them because I usually hate shopping but now I'm obsessed!

Here's what I have found lately:

1. Egyptian Inspired Earrings - $0.49
2. Tribal Jacket - $5.99
3. Leaf Shaped Earrings - $1.40
4. Le Pliage LongChamp Handbag - $0.99
5. Impo Black Loafers - $4.99
6. Etienne Aigner Genuine Leather Bag - $1.40

I would like to introduce you to Chris and Kirk Bray, the men behind Billykirk. Billykirk is a company that produces incredible leather items and their pieces are truly made to transcend time. Lately, I have become obsessed with thrifting and that indescribable rush you get when you find something that is unique and timeless! When I found this video I was really able to relate because when you know you have something that other people might not have in exact detail, it becomes your "go-to" item and life gets just a little bit happier.
I also love this video because it reminded me of my brother and I, and how we united forces to create something we are truly passionate about. So yea, check it out peeps!

P.S.
I'm thinking of photographing all my finds at the thrift store and posting them so be on the look out for that!

[click on pictures to watch videos!]

Picture taken by - Eddie A.

Lately, I have been going crazy because of the lack of cultural experiences I've had in the past year. I really miss going to museums, concerts, plays, multicultural nights, etc. I'm still getting to know ABQ and what it has to offer so when I discovered this little piece of heaven earlier today I definitely felt as if nothing was missing in my life.

The following is an amazing mini concert put together by MADE, a project...or group of projects that are sure to leave you in awe! This is specific one is a combination of three artists: a singer, a violinist, and a painter. The combination of the three is astounding. Here's the actual description given by MADE:

"Moments with ALOE BLACC, Mihalj “MIKI” Kekenj & JAYBO – The Songs.

In the Spring of 2011, a composer, a painter and a singer came together at MADE to create a moment.

Aloe Blacc´s original music was interpreted by Miki and his string-quintet, who translated the soul & funk songs into classical music compositions.

The string-quintet version and the lyrics of Aloe’s song “I Need a Dollar” inspired Jaybo to create his own visual interpretation of the song as an art piece."

This mini-concert which features an amazing string-quintet with soulful R&B influences will make you feel jealous of every single person who was able to attend! Below, I will include the link to the first of six videos. Take the time to watch them all and I guarantee you will not be disappointed!

MOMENTS WITH ALOE BLACC, MIKI AND JAYBO: "TAKE ME BACK" PART 1/6

July is a very important month! Not only does it mark my birthday and when my family and I moved to New Mexico but it also now marks the beginning of a new monthly section on my blog which will highlight the most attractive men in the last 30 days! Now, by attractive I don't only mean the best looking or best dressed but men who are not afraid to show their intellectual side, hard working attributes, or breath-taking performances! Let's begin this month's list, shall we?

1. Ryan Gosling
Ryan had been pretty much under my radar until about a few weeks ago when he kept popping up on my Tumblr dashboard and I couldn't avoid seeing him in almost all night talk shows promoting his new movie "Stupid, Crazy, Love." Who knew Ryan Gosling would become a fashion icon? I certainly didn't see that one coming!
I was also able to watch him in the mystery thriller "All Good Things" along side Kirsten Dunst, and let me tell you...it was such an amazing story! His acting has definitely evolved since The Notebook and I just can't wait to see his upcoming films!

2. Marcus Mumford
This amazing singer has earned a spot on my list because of his musical qualities...and, of course, his good looks! I haven't been able to stop listening to Mumford and Sons' latest album "Sigh No More" ever since I was able to get my hands on it! The lyrics are just fantastic, so true, so warm, so touching. I also love watching Mumford and Sons performances on YouTube, I think if a band had to bring folk music back into the spotlight it definitely should be them.
Marcus also has a little blog on the band's website where he makes book recommendations to all the fans, he doesn't update often but the recommendations so far are really great! A man who likes to read for pleasure...now, that is a pleasure all on itself!

3. The Mast Brothers
Rich and Michael Mast are two brothers whose passion of chocolate made them take part in the fantastic world of chocolate making, a world in which they are now stars! I watched a video on Vimeo about three weeks ago about this fantastic family business and on how they make their vibrant chocolates. Whenever a person has such a passion for something in their lives, I think that makes them automatically attractive! Take a look at the video, I think you will fall in love with them and their chocolates too. Who wouldn't? Especially with those unique wrappings...they're just so out of the ordinary... I wish I could eat one everyday of the week!

4. Matthew Gray Gubler
So if you know me personally you most likely know that I have this thing for smart, witty, dorky, and awfully well dressed men and I think Matthew pretty much fits the description 99.999%.
The other day I was watching TV (which is something I hardly ever do anymore) and his show "Criminal Minds" came up...aaaah I love his character, it sort of reminds me of the male version of Bones! So that's why he deserves to be on this list....just for being fantastic all around!

5. Rupert Grint
This month my dad scored free tickets for the last Harry Potter movie ever! I said to myself "Italia, this is the end of an saga...a saga that has lasted for 10 years...you HAVE to go!" To be honest, I had never been an HP fan, I've never read the books or watched all the previous movies but what else is better than a free movie and did I mention that it was in 3D? My first 3D movie!!!
So my brother and I decided to go and to prepare I watched as many HP films as I could to sort of catch up on the story and oh my goodness, I fell in love with Ron, Rupert Grint's character. He is just so clueless all the time and loves to eat...he's just so funny! He also seems to have a bromance in real life with Tom Felton which makes him totally adorable!

6. Christopher Waltz
I've been a Christopher Waltz fan ever since Inglorious Basterds, in which he plays a scary nazi villain. This week I was watching the Green Hornet and I was just amazed at how well he can play any character...he makes the Green Hornet bearable along with Jay Chao who plays the sideckick Kato.
I absolutely love a good, down to earth actor who can make me enjoy any movie he is in!


Here you have it, the six men who have made a lasting impression in the past 30 days. Tune in next month to see who makes the list!

Rack Kingdom. That's the name of the newest adventure my brother and I have embarked on. We had been deciding for the last few months whether we wanted to do it or not but, at last, here it is...or well...a preview of it. We will be selling vintage clothing and bags/purses, so hopefully all of you will be able to find something you like.

I'm not going to lie, I am having a blast being part of this project! Can't wait to have it ready for you all!

I hope everyone is having a GREAT summer!

Much Love,

Italia.


picture taken by- Eddie A.