Wandering in Whimsical Wonders: Crystal Palace Gardens of Porto, Portugal

It's been so long since last time I've visited the gardens of Porto's Crystal Palace, I almost forgot what a gorgeous and soothing place it is to be. These gardens were at first created during the 1860's, along with the construction of the original Crystal Palace building. Although the Crystal Palace itself has been (very sadly) demolished and given place to the current Rosa Mota pavilion, the gardens remain as a haven right in the heart of the city; the open designed spaces invite for snug sunbathing and the old, luxuriant woods whisper memoirs of a long past time. There is a semi-natural lake where the ducks and gooses swim and there are peacocks wandering around people in a wide and neverending avenue of centenary linden trees with breathtaking views upon the Douro river. There are dripping romantic grottos embedded in quiet verdant nooks and palm trees that reach for the sky. Alas, taking a walk through these immense gardens is like a journey to our deep inner selves.

I am currently working on a historic garden conservation project for the Crystal Palace within my Master's and managed to convince my boyfriend to come visit the gardens and enjoy the sun with me yesterday afternoon. Since he's such an indoor person, going out together is a really rare thing for us. We are total opposites in this matter; while I would grab a backpack and throw myself to places unknown every weekend if I could, he prefers to stay home cozy and at pleasure. Needless to say I keep telling him that for a person who enjoys nature and camping and stargazing so much, we spend way too much time indoors. Anyhoo... here are some pictures of the amazing gardens we've visited together for the first time in 6 years!

Also, today we celebrate Mother's Day in my country. I don't think I will ever find the words to describe how grateful I am for everything and all the love my mother has given me during these 24 years of life. I love my mom! We're having a family late snack to celebrate. Shellfish in such a gorgeous Spring sunday sounds the best! Yummy. But first, I'm off for the hard part... studying. Yay.

Buterfly wishes,

Ana ❤

An inspiration for loving yourself (for who you are)

Hi there! I know, it's been a while again.

I've been living the last couple of weeks in a literal race against time. There are just so many (way too many) things I wanna do with so much little time to spare. I have LOTS of plans for Wilwarin Designs, including two new collections to be launched this Summer (schhh, don't tell anyone I said that.) and, I hope, my very first jewelry show. On the other hand, I'm thrilled with my third Etsy sale; that makes three different sales in less than a month! It's such a wonderful feeling, I don't think there are words to explain it. Seeing these little treasures which were created with so much love with my bare hands traveling to the other side of the world... it's like sending away a little piece of me, to meet whole new places and new people. I cannot describe it!

My latest international order, fondly packaged and ready to ship. 

Wilwarin Designs aside, I have also been preparing myself for a little change, as I am always eager to learn new precious lessons and grow as an individual.

There is actually someone who's been inspiring me very much lately. A girl - a CUTE, talented girl - who's only a couple of years older than me, but with so much to show and to give. She appears to be such a wonderful person, never afraid to be whoever she is, and everybody loves her just for that! I'm talking about Lindsey Stirling, a young violinist from Utah, USA. If you are from the States, then probably you've heard about her, most probably from America's Got Talent in 2010 (quite a long time ago, but oh well!). Her violin skills are amazing and you will be thrilled with her performance and personality, which can be enjoyed in her many videos. She often posts new ones, be it original songs, covers or medleys, live performances or even talkative videos about her life and her best moments. This is one of my very favourite songs of hers:

"The greatest value comes from loving yourself for who you are. I've been teaching this idea to myself for years so I hope that by showing what I've learned, others can find the same freedom and joy I have."

~Lindsey Stirling~

I, too, have been teaching the same to myself for years now - with the difference that I've actually been struggling a bit... Since the day I came across Lindsey on Youtube some months ago and, thus, her wonderful personality, she serves me as a reminder of a simple way to be happy.

I'm looking forward to bring you good news and more, great updates on Wilwarin Designs. In the meanwhile, be sure to enjoy Lindsey's music and my Mother's Day Sale, which has been extended until May 13th (23:59 WET aka GMT + 1). Have a lovely weekend everyone!

Mother's Day Sale!

It's been a while! Sadly I've been quite busy with other matters during the last few days and I don't have much time or energy to create and write. However, there is a very special day coming, and I wanted to start this current week in a great way; starting today and until May 6th, ALL ITEMS at my Etsy store are 10% off!!!

All you need to do is to type the coupon code 'MOTHERSDAY' (also published at my shop's page) during checkout.

I have many unique and special pieces craving for an owner at the moment and I hope you will take a portion of your time to browse my work and store. Who knows what little treasure can conquer your heart. :)

Order now to ensure delivery in time of Mother's Day!

Much love,

Wilwarin Designs.