Sicily completely changed my life

Well I don’t want to tell you more than what the lovely Elena @elenaciprietti told to me. So, here we are with a long and new great story from #whatitalyis •• “My name is Elena Ciprietti, but don’t let the name fool you — I’m not actually from Italy. I was born and raised in The Bronx, New York, but knew I wanted to live in here the second I stepped foot in Italy for the first time over 8 years ago. I’ve been living in Milan for over 3 years now and I’m the Digital PR Manager at Musement, an Italian start-up that lets travelers discover and book activities around the world. I’m often told that I’ve become a real-deal milanese, but it’s my americana accent that usually starts the “why would you leave New York for Milan?” conversation. Italy has shown me an appreciation of life and enjoying the beauty in each moment. That there is beauty everywhere, in every person you meet, every town you explore, every piece of art you see, every plate of pasta you eat. I’ve learned to slow down and take each day at a time, savoring each minute of it instead of worrying about the past or the future. My trip to Sicily this summer completely changed my life. My mother’s grandparents were born there (so yes, I do have Italian blood!) and I have always dreamed of visiting the beautiful island. #Caltagirone, where I took this photo, is a small town known for its ceramics — where even the famous 142-step staircase is filled colorful and decorated with hand painted tiles. I was amazed at the resilient elderly locals who climbed the staircase everyday, always smiling and happy to share interesting details about their beloved town.” •• From Sicily, tons of suns for all of you. Ciao! @roccorossitto