Over the holidays, I had the incredible opportunity to journey through Asia. Each moment was filled with wonder, inspiration, and profound gratitude- especially for all of my customers, whose patience and support made this adventure possible.
My husband, John, lived in China for many years- he’s shared countless hilarious- and sometimes terrifying- stories about his time there, and he was eager to show me the places where those memories were made. We also brought along my niece, Tori, who studied Mandarin in high school. This trip was meant to be a graduation gift for her, but Covid had delayed our plans until now. Finally, this was the year to make it happen!
I’m thrilled to share some highlights from our trip and give you a glimpse of the beauty, culture, and spirit that I encountered in this extraordinary and fascinating country.
Thank you for letting us close our little shop so that I could go on this epic adventure.
Our journey began in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve, where we were fortunate to witness the extravagant fireworks display over Victoria Harbour: a dazzling spectacle that felt like the perfect way to start our adventure!
We next took the bullet train to Kunming, known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its mild climate and lush greenery. Here, we stayed near the enchanting Green Lake, where locals practice tai chi at sunrise and sing opera to the ducks. Kunming was by far our favorite city in China, and the delightful part was that we encountered no other foreigners!
Kunming is also the home to one of John's best stories, of losing his key and climbing into his apartment via a window- and then getting stuck.
We also had a spontaneous tea ceremony by a woman from the Pu-erh region selling her family tea. She entertained us for hours and we walked away with so much tea that John had to catch a ride on her moped to go to an ATM.
In Lijiang, we were transported to ancient times via the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and unique flavors of the night food market. As I strolled through the cobblestone streets, I couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship evident in every detail- of the architecture, trees, food artisans, and the silversmiths creating their wares in their shops!
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Shangri-La was dreamy, but very touristy! Nestled in the Tibetan Plateau at 11,000 feet, this region’s stunning vistas left me in awe- even if the local tourists did not (apparently, dressing up in the style of the local minority and having yourself photographed is a thing there... and VERY popular).
We visited the Songzanlin Monastery- a grandiose Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated among snow-capped mountains. It was an unapologetic celebration of color, art, and spirituality.
Our final stop was Beijing, a city of contrasts and history. Walking through the Summer Palace was ethereal, and exploring the Forbidden City brought home China’s imperial past. A fitting conclusion to a journey that has given me endless sources of inspiration.
Then we stopped at the pearl market and I found some little strands- stay tuned for those!
In Beijing, we stumbled across a spaceman reptile and creature petting zoo, where John and Tori both held tarantula's while I yelled "NO" involuntarily, and ran away.
But I did hold a lizard, and it was a very cool reptile.
Returning to Hong Kong, we closed the loop of our journey- and stopped by a jade market!
Before we flew back home I was filled with gratitude. This trip wasn’t just about exploration- it was about new perspectives and fresh inspiration, and I’m eager to put that into my work. I have a renewed sense of purpose. Thank you for giving me the space to travel creatively.
On our way back home, we flew through Los Angeles and witnessed, from the plane, the devastating fires raging across the region. The sight was both sobering and humbling- a stark reminder of the challenges so many are facing at this very moment, and the resilience of communities coming together in times of crisis. It adds another layer of gratitude to my journey, as I reflect on the privilege of experiencing such beauty while recognizing the hardships others endure.
Thank you.
