As I write this, I’m in a nostalgic and reflective state of mind. Not only is our family’s two-month long Italian summer coming to an end, but my birthday is this week and I’m stepping into a new decade (with heels on, of course).
I could not have asked for a better prelude to my 40s than spending quality family time in the Italian countryside, surrounded by majestic mountains, acreages of wheat, trees of juicy figs, flora swaying with the wind, and being greeted by the most welcoming group of locals, always ready to lend a hand.
This summer has been a gift of pause and the intentional act of slowing down. The expression “la dolce vita” is often used to describe enjoying life and its pleasures, but for the Italians, it goes way beyond the popular saying. For them, it’s truly a state of mind that’s practically ingrained within their DNA.
Thankfully, I was able to fully embrace “la dolce vita” myself by going on long walks through the winding paths, learning Italian, journaling (something I haven’t done in a long time), meditating in nature, eating meals with no end in sight and allowing my two boys to run wild and free without an ounce of worry, knowing that the “nonnas” of town always have a plate of fresh pasta ready for them.
Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I felt this stress-free and it gave me the opportunity to reflect on the past decades and the one that’s about to commence. Each decade has been representative of unique life chapters. The teens, well, let’s not go that far back, but the 20s were about independence, adventure, and the bliss of naïveté. I lived and worked in Beijing for ten years, exploring and learning about an entirely new culture. My 30s were marked by relationship transitions, moving back to Boca Raton, starting my brand, Protect My Shoes, and, the biggest blessing of all, becoming a mother. It was a decade of taking chances, finding my voice and truly believing that what’s meant to be will happen.
And now, the 40s… What will this decade serve up? Although I can’t control the circumstances that life throws, I am committed to bringing more of “la dolce vita” spirit into my daily routine. This means being intentional with both my time and the people I spend it with. Less is more! I noticed this shift in mindset already taking form the past two years, evaluating my priorities and making conscious changes to align with my heart and mind.
This brings me to another milestone in August. I’ve been writing for bocamag.com now for three years. I remember as if it was yesterday how anxious I felt writing my very first article as the new official style columnist. It was daunting at the time and, quite frankly, I didn’t think I would still be writing three years later. However, as I have grown more confident in my writing, it’s been such a joy to contribute to Boca magazine’s overall content offering. As I eliminate some to-do’s on my list, I am intentionally excited to continue covering all things fashion, decor and lifestyle for the publication’s digital platform. My style choices have certainly evolved throughout the years and although the future brings the unknown, one thing’s for sure, my love of fashion will forever be a constant.
There is a great quote by Peter Hagerty that says, “Life is a journey, and if you fall in love with the journey, you will be in love forever.” Today, when I wholeheartedly blow those birthday candles, I will feel a deep sense of gratitude for everyone who has been a part of my journey. To our readers, thank you for reading my articles. Your support means the world to me and I wish for us all to have a slice of “la dolce vita” today and everyday.
For more from Olivia Hollaus, click here.
