summer's end

It's that time of the year again; when the unbearable summer heat somehow manages to become even more unbearable. Even though I'm bound for cooler temperatures, it's always bittersweet to part with everything I love about being home. Each passing summer gives off a bit of a different vibe for me, and this year's was particularly strong. I've been fortunate enough to visit two uniquely beautiful places that have each given me a handful of experiences to reflect upon as I begin the final half of my college career. Italy allowed me to travel alone and rediscover the enjoyment found in both solitude and company, and helped me clarify the relationship that I currently have with creating art. I only just returned from my second big adventure of the season. Peru was a place so deeply rooted with culture and an element of ancient spirituality that I found refreshing, and learning about those aspects helped me draw even more meaning from the Andean landscape. Eventually, I'll get around to typing a few words and sharing a few pictures from that beautiful week. But at this point, already well into the month of August, all that's left for me to do is pack, clean, and maybe accomplish one or two more things on the list initially concocted in my brain back in May.

cinque terre

Riomaggiore is the Southernmost town of Cinque Terre, and it was also where I stayed during my time spent in this part of Italy. I can't say that it was my favorite of the five towns (each of them beautiful and unique), but evenings spent on the bar overlooking the Mediterranean and the view of the terraced garden from the hotel window have definitely made it a memorable part of my trip. Ultimately, it was where most of my time was spent in Riomaggiore, whether it be wandering the steep streets or sitting in the hotel bed, shutters open, drawing. Fortunately, my days were not limited to this small fishing village. Over the course of the week, I was able to spend my time exploring and returning to each of the five towns.