PEI is where I grew up, and no matter how long I’ve lived away, a part of me will always be there.

Right now, that distance feels unbearable. My mom is at home in palliative care after we learned she has a massive tumour on her right lung. I want to be beside her. I also know that every visit will make what is happening more real.

When my dad died suddenly at 79, there was no time to prepare.

Losing him was a shock that changed everything in an instant. With my mom, I’m facing a different kind of heartbreak: knowing what is coming and having to watch someone I love move toward it. I honestly don’t know which is harder.

At the same time, my son has gone off to university in Edinburgh. I’m so proud of him. Watching him begin this new chapter is everything I hoped for, even as I miss him terribly.

And at home, our daughter Victoria, who has non speaking autism, will continue to need us in ways that don’t end when a child becomes an adult. Her life and care are woven into every decision we make.

Some people call this the squeeze generation. You’re caring for your children while your parents need you, too. But “squeeze” sounds almost too tidy for what it feels like. My heart is in Edinburgh with my son, at home with Victoria, and across the country with my mom. Wherever I am, part of me feels I should be somewhere else.

And all of this is happening while I’m going through menopause and trying to make sense of the changes in my own body and life. Some days I can carry it. Other days, the emotion catches up with me when I least expect it.

I feel deeply blessed. I’ve had an amazing life. My mom is receiving wonderful care at home, and I’m grateful for the people who care for Victoria and love her as we do. Gratitude is real. So is the exhaustion. So is the fear, the guilt, and the sadness that can eat away at you quietly from the inside.

I’m sharing this because we don’t talk enough about this part of life. We celebrate children finding their way into the world, and we try to be strong for parents nearing the end of theirs. In between, there are people trying to hold both with love.

If you’re in that place too, I see you. It’s a lot. And it’s okay to say so.

The post The Squeeze We Don’t Talk About appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Meet ARISTAEOS Colostrum + Hydroxytyrosol, a unique nutritional supplement that brings together two ingredients inspired by very different moments in nature: bovine colostrum and olive leaf extract.

The result is a simple addition to your everyday routine, designed to fit easily into smoothies, cool beverages, or yogurt.

What Is ARISTAEOS?

ARISTAEOS combines premium grass-fed bovine colostrum concentrate with olive leaf extract containing hydroxytyrosol.

Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth and naturally contains compounds such as immunoglobulins, proteins, peptides, lactoferrin, and growth factors.

The formula also incorporates hydroxytyrosol, a naturally occurring polyphenol found in olives and olive leaves that has been studied for its antioxidant properties.

According to the product information, each serving contains:

• 2 grams of premium grass-fed bovine colostrum concentrate
• 2 milligrams of olive leaf extract
• 0.3 milligrams of hydroxytyrosol
• 60 servings per container

Why Combine Colostrum and Hydroxytyrosol?

What makes ARISTAEOS interesting is the combination of two ingredients with different origins.

Colostrum naturally contains a complex mixture of proteins, peptides, immunoglobulins, and other bioactive components.

Hydroxytyrosol, meanwhile, is an olive-derived polyphenol that has attracted scientific interest because of its antioxidant activity.

Rather than adding several different products to your routine, ARISTAEOS brings these ingredients together in one daily formula.

How to Add It to Your Routine

One of the easiest things about ARISTAEOS is how simple it is to incorporate.

The brand recommends mixing one scoop into:

🥤 A cool beverage
🍓 Your morning smoothie
🥣 Your favorite yogurt

For a simple morning ritual, add a scoop to your favorite smoothie and enjoy it alongside breakfast.

You could also keep the container somewhere visible in your kitchen as a reminder to make it part of your daily routine.

A Wellness Ritual Inspired by Nature

ARISTAEOS draws inspiration from two very different parts of nature.

Colostrum represents the beginning of life, while the olive tree represents longevity, history, and Mediterranean tradition.

The company’s story is also closely connected to olive cultivation. According to the brand, its founder, Thomas Lommel, became interested in the history and mythology surrounding the olive tree and later developed Aristaeos Cooperativa Mediterranea, a Mediterranean cooperative centered around olive cultivation.

This connection to the olive tree is reflected throughout the brand, from its ingredients to its visual identity.

More Than Just Another Supplement?

A good wellness routine doesn’t necessarily need to be complicated.

For many people, the hardest part of creating a consistent routine is simply making it convenient enough to repeat every day. That’s where a simple powder supplement can fit naturally into an existing habit.

Instead of creating an entirely new routine, you can pair ARISTAEOS with something you already do:

Make your morning smoothie → Add one scoop → Enjoy.

Simple habits are often easier to maintain than elaborate routines.

Final Thoughts

ARISTAEOS Colostrum + Hydroxytyrosol offers an interesting combination of bovine colostrum and olive-derived hydroxytyrosol in a convenient daily powder.

Whether you’re building a more intentional morning routine or simply exploring new wellness products, its easy-to-mix format makes it simple to incorporate into everyday meals and beverages.

As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to read the product label and consider your individual needs. Supplements aren’t a substitute for a balanced diet or medical care, and it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional if you have questions about whether a particular supplement is appropriate for you.

One scoop. One simple ritual. Inspired by nature. 🌿

The post ARISTAEOS Colostrum + Hydroxytyrosol: A Simple Daily Wellness Ritual Inspired by Nature appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Before breakfast, we were already climbing rocky trails, taking in incredible views, laughing with friends, and realizing that we were standing on what was once an ancient volcano. 🌋

A Morning Above Edinburgh

Located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat rises about 251 metres (823 feet) above sea level and is the highest point in the park.

The climb takes you through a beautiful landscape of rocky paths, green hills, open grasslands, and dramatic volcanic rock formations. And once you start looking around, it’s easy to forget that you’re only about a mile from Edinburgh’s city centre.

The higher we climbed, the more spectacular the views became.

Below us was Edinburgh stretching toward the Firth of Forth, with the coastline and surrounding landscape visible in the distance. On a clear day, you can even see across toward Fife. 🌊

Did You Know We Were Walking on a Volcano?

One of the coolest things about Arthur’s Seat is its history.

The hill is the remains of an ancient extinct volcano, with volcanic rocks formed approximately 340 million years ago. Much later, Ice Age glaciers shaped the landscape, carving the hill into the dramatic form we see today.

So while we were enjoying the views and taking photos, we were actually walking across a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and glaciers millions of years ago. 🌋❄️

That definitely made the hike feel a little more special.

The Views Were Worth Every Step

There were plenty of moments when we stopped just to take everything in.

From the higher points, Edinburgh looked completely different from above. The city, coastline, hills, and sea all came together in one incredible panorama.

And honestly, the views were one of the best parts of the experience.

There was something peaceful about standing on the hillside with the wind blowing, looking out over the city and the water, while everyone around us was taking their own little moment to appreciate the scenery.

Exploring the Ancient Ruins

Arthur’s Seat isn’t just about hiking and beautiful views.

Around the area are ancient remains that show people lived and defended this landscape thousands of years ago. There are ancient hill forts around the summit that date back roughly 2,000 years.

We also came across dramatic stone ruins that made the experience feel almost like stepping into a different chapter of history.

And then there’s one of Edinburgh’s strangest stories…

In 1836, 17 miniature coffins were discovered hidden on the hillside. Their purpose and origin remain uncertain, making them one of the city’s enduring mysteries. 👀

I have to admit, learning little details like this makes exploring a place so much more interesting.

More Than Just a Hike

What I loved most about Arthur’s Seat was that it wasn’t simply a hike to a viewpoint.

It was a little bit of everything:

🏔️ Adventure — climbing rocky trails and reaching the summit
🌋 Geology — walking across the remains of an ancient volcano
🏰 History — discovering ancient fortifications and ruins
🌊 Nature — enjoying the hills, coastline, and wide-open views
📸 Memories — taking photos, laughing, and enjoying the experience together

And yes… we actually climbed an ancient volcano before breakfast! 😂🥾🏴

Sometimes the best travel days aren’t the ones that are carefully planned down to every minute. They’re the mornings when you put on your walking shoes, head outside, and discover just how much history and beauty can be found in one place.

Arthur’s Seat gave us a little workout, incredible scenery, fascinating history, and plenty of memories to take home.

Edinburgh, you were beautiful from up here. 💙🏴

📌 Quick Arthur’s Seat Facts

• 📍 Location: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, Scotland
• ⛰️ Elevation: 251 metres / 823 feet
• 🌋 Origin: Remains of an ancient extinct volcano
• 🕰️ Volcanic rocks: Approximately 340 million years old
• ❄️ Landscape: Later shaped by Ice Age glaciers
• 🏰 History: Ancient hill forts date back around 2,000 years
• 👀 Mystery: 17 miniature coffins were discovered in 1836
• 🌊 Views: Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, coastline, and surrounding countryside

Sometimes, all you need is a pair of good shoes, a beautiful view, and a little adventure. 🥾💙

The post We Climbed an Ancient Volcano Before Breakfast: Exploring Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh 🏔️ appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

There’s something special about exploring London with the people you love. From iconic landmarks and beautiful streets to good food, museums, shopping, and plenty of laughs along the way, our London trip gave us so many moments to remember.

A Day of Exploring London

Our adventure was filled with some of the best things London has to offer. We spent our days walking through the city, taking in the beautiful architecture, discovering new places, and, of course, stopping every now and then for photos.

One of the highlights was seeing Tower Bridge up close. It was even more impressive in person, and naturally, we had to take a family photo with it in the background.

We also visited the Tower of London, where we enjoyed learning about the city’s history and seeing some fascinating exhibits. One of our favorite stops was the museum, where we came across incredible dinosaur and animal fossils. It was a fun change of pace from sightseeing around the city.

Shopping, Streets & Little Discoveries

London is such a fun city to simply walk around. Every street seems to have something interesting—from historic buildings and beautiful storefronts to little corners that make you want to stop and take a picture.

We also enjoyed some shopping along the way, including a stop at Ralph Lauren. Sometimes the best travel memories aren’t necessarily the big attractions but the little moments in between.

Of Course, We Had to Eat!

No London trip would be complete without trying some classic food.

We enjoyed a delicious plate of fish and chips, along with some other tasty treats. After all the walking and exploring, sitting down for a good meal was definitely something we looked forward to.

And yes, there were plenty of drinks, conversations, and laughs along the way. 🍻

Getting Around London

One of the fun parts of the trip was experiencing London like locals do. We took the Tube, walked through busy streets, and enjoyed seeing the city from different perspectives.

Even riding the Underground became part of the experience. There’s something exciting about navigating a huge city together and figuring out where the next adventure will take you.

Making Memories Together

What made this trip special wasn’t just the places we visited. It was being together.

From silly selfies and sightseeing to sharing meals, shopping, walking around the city, and simply enjoying each other’s company, we made memories that we’ll carry with us long after leaving London.

Travel has a funny way of reminding us that the moments we remember most aren’t always the perfectly planned ones. Sometimes it’s the unexpected laugh, the great meal, the long walk, or the photo you almost didn’t take.

London Highlights

🏰 Windsor Palace
🏯 The Tower of London
🏛️ The British Museum
🎡 The London Eye
🫖 High Tea at Claridge’s
🎭 Les Misérables

Until Next Time, London!

The post London: Our Fun Family Experience 🇬🇧 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

We were so grateful to have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see the incredible transformation taking place at the Centre. What we saw was more than a construction project. It was a glimpse into the future of creativity, learning, art and community on Prince Edward Island.

A $65-Million Transformation

The Confederation Centre of the Arts is undergoing a $65-million revitalization—the largest transformation in the Centre’s 60-year history.

Walking through the construction site gave us a whole new appreciation for the scale of what is being created. From the unfinished spaces and exposed infrastructure to the plans showing what these areas will eventually become, it was exciting to imagine the finished Centre.

There is something special about seeing a place before it is complete. You get to see the hard work, the vision and all the little details that will eventually come together to create something beautiful.

And knowing that this project will provide even more opportunities for creativity, education, connection and Canadian culture makes it even more meaningful for our Island community.

A Family Legacy That Will Live On

For our family, however, this revitalization is especially close to our hearts.

One of the most meaningful parts of the project is the Michael S. Schurman Family Studio, which will carry Dad’s name forward.

My mom and sisters made this beautiful donation in his memory, helping create a space where children, families and artists will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, learn new things and simply enjoy the arts.

Standing inside the space and seeing the plans for what it will become was an emotional moment for all of us.

It is difficult to put into words what it means to know that Dad’s name will be part of a place where future generations will create, discover and be inspired.

Dad would be so incredibly proud. 🤍

Seeing the Vision Come to Life

Our behind-the-scenes tour gave us the chance to see areas that most visitors would never normally get to see.

We walked through spaces that are currently filled with construction materials, equipment and unfinished walls, while holding the plans and images that show the beautiful spaces they are destined to become.

It was almost like looking at the Centre’s past, present and future all at once.

And, of course, we couldn’t resist putting on our hard hats and getting into the spirit of the tour! From exploring the construction site to taking photos together, it was such a memorable experience.

We were also lucky enough to enjoy the views from above and see Charlottetown from a completely different perspective.

Something Special Is Coming to PEI

Projects like this are about so much more than buildings.

They create spaces where people can gather, children can discover their creativity, artists can share their work and families can make memories together.

For us, this project also represents something deeply personal—a way to honour Dad while creating something that will continue to inspire others for years to come.

We left the tour feeling incredibly grateful and excited to see the transformation continue.

We can’t wait to come back and see the Michael S. Schurman Family Studio and the rest of the revitalized Confederation Centre of the Arts once everything is complete.

Fall 2026 can’t come soon enough!

Until then, we’ll treasure being able to say that we got a little behind-the-scenes glimpse of what is to come. ❤️

Follow along as this incredible chapter unfolds for Confederation Centre of the Arts and for PEI. @confedcentre

The post A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Transformation of Confederation Centre of the Arts appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

🐮 Welcome to Cows!

From the moment we arrived, Cows Creamery was impossible to miss. The fun cow-themed signs, colorful details, and the iconic cow on the roof immediately put us in a happy vacation mood. 😍

Of course, we had to take plenty of photos! From posing beside the giant cow to capturing our colorful ice cream cones, every corner seemed to have the perfect photo opportunity.

Ice Cream First… Everything Else Later!

And then came the most important part – the ice cream! 😂

We each picked our flavors and enjoyed our cones while soaking up the beautiful Prince Edward Island scenery. There’s just something extra special about eating ice cream while traveling, especially when you’re surrounded by friends and sunshine.

And yes… we had to document every single scoop! 📸🍨

Memories With the Girls

What made the experience even more fun was sharing it with friends. We laughed, took photos, explored the creamery, and enjoyed the little moments together.

The colorful Cows Canada mural inside was another favorite photo spot. Standing beside the giant cow made us feel like kids again!

More Than Just Ice Cream

One thing we didn’t expect was how much more there was to discover inside. Cows Creamery also has a selection of cheese, butter, and other local products, making it a fun stop for anyone who wants to bring a little taste of PEI home.

We couldn’t resist browsing the shelves and checking out all the delicious-looking goodies.

A Must-Visit in PEI

Our Cows Creamery experience was more than just grabbing ice cream… it was a fun, colorful, and delicious part of our Prince Edward Island adventure.

If you’re visiting PEI, add Cows Creamery to your itinerary! Come for the famous ice cream, stay for the fun atmosphere, take lots of photos, and maybe bring home some cheese or butter, too. 🐮🍦

Good friends + beautiful PEI weather + delicious ice cream = a perfect travel memory!

The post Our Sweet Cows Creamery Experience in Prince Edward Island 🐄🍦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

That’s exactly the feeling we had spending the day at Twice as Nice.

But this wasn’t just a day of browsing through consignment racks. We were there to style, curate, experiment, and have a whole lot of fun with fashion.

More Than Consignment

There’s a certain misconception that consignment fashion is all about finding something secondhand and calling it a day.

We see it differently.

Consignment is about discovering great pieces and giving them a fresh point of view. A beautiful blouse can look completely different when paired with the right denim. A statement jacket can become an everyday favorite with a simple change of accessories. And that dress you’ve passed over before might suddenly feel completely new when styled in a different way.

At Twice as Nice, we had the chance to play with pieces, put outfits together, mix textures, and create looks that felt current, stylish, and completely wearable.

And honestly? That’s the fun part.

Styling Is What Makes an Outfit Yours

One of my favorite things about fashion is that the same piece can look completely different on two people.

Together with Amy Caine (Owner)

It’s not always about the label, the price tag, or whether something came straight off a store shelf.

It’s about how you style it.

Add a great belt. Layer a jacket. Change the shoes. Switch up the handbag. Add a little jewelry. Suddenly, a piece has a whole new personality.

That’s what makes consignment so exciting. You get the opportunity to find pieces that already have a story and make them part of your own.

Great Style Doesn’t Have to Be Brand New

One of the biggest takeaways from our day was just how fresh consignment fashion can feel.

There were pieces that looked timeless, pieces that felt completely on trend, and plenty that could easily be styled alongside things already hanging in your closet.

And that’s the beauty of it.

Great fashion doesn’t have to be brand new.

Sometimes it’s about finding something special, styling it in a way that feels modern, and making it your own.

For anyone who loves fashion but also loves the thrill of finding something unexpected, consignment shopping can be incredibly rewarding.

Fashion Is More Fun With Friends

Of course, the clothes were only part of the experience.

Doing all of this with friends made the day even better. There was plenty of trying things on, giving opinions, putting unexpected pieces together, laughing at the outfit experiments, and celebrating the finds that just worked.

Fashion should feel fun.

It should be about experimenting without taking yourself too seriously, trying something outside your comfort zone, and finding pieces that make you feel confident.

Sometimes the best style moments happen when you’re simply having a good time.

Consignment, But Make It Chic

Our day at Twice as Nice was a perfect reminder that style isn’t about constantly buying more. It’s about curating better.

Find the pieces that speak to you. Mix old with new. Experiment with proportions and textures. Add your favorite accessories. Most importantly, wear it with confidence.

Because chic isn’t necessarily about what’s new.

It’s about how you make it yours.🤎

A special thank-you to Amy Caine, owner of Twice as Nice, for welcoming us and making our day of styling, shopping, and discovering beautiful consignment pieces so much fun! ✨

📸 Follow: @twiceasniceconsignmentoakbay

The post Consignment, But Make It Chic: A Day at Twice as Nice appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

On a beautiful Saturday morning at 8:00 AM, we joined a yoga class led by Candice, one of the incredible instructors from Spinco Victoria. From the moment the class began, her calming voice set the tone for the morning. She created the perfect balance between relaxation and movement—it felt peaceful and grounding while still giving us a great workout.

What made it even more memorable was the setting. We were practicing yoga high above the forest at Malahat SkyWalk, surrounded by breathtaking views of Southern Vancouver Island. As the morning sun rose over the mountains and ocean, we stretched, breathed, and moved through our practice while feeling completely immersed in nature.

 

Why Malahat SkyWalk Is So Special

If you haven’t visited yet, Malahat SkyWalk is one of Vancouver Island’s most unique attractions. Located just north of Victoria, the experience begins with a beautiful elevated boardwalk winding through the treetops before leading to a stunning spiral tower that rises nearly 250 meters above sea level.

The Malahat Skywalk Spiral Tower (Victoria, BC)

From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of:

• Finlayson Arm
• Saanich Peninsula
• Mount Baker
• The Gulf Islands
• Dense West Coast forests stretching as far as the eye can see

Being up there before the crowds arrived felt magical. We were practically the only ones on the SkyWalk, making the experience even more peaceful and intimate. There was something surreal about practicing yoga in the sky while taking in some of the most beautiful views on Vancouver Island.

A Little Diet Coke Moment

The morning was made even sweeter thanks to Lisa, who surprised us with matching Diet Coke hats she picked up during a recent trip to Scottsdale, Arizona. If you know us, you know our love for a little Diet Coke moment, so naturally we wore them proudly and snapped plenty of photos.

The matching hats quickly became the unofficial accessory of the day and added a fun touch to an already memorable morning.

Lunch with a View at The Eyrie Resort

After yoga, we headed to The Eyrie Resort for a scenic lunch overlooking the mountains and ocean.

The views were absolutely spectacular. Sitting by the windows, enjoying fresh food and good conversation after a morning of movement, felt like the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of Vancouver Island.

My meal was packed with fresh greens, avocado toast, perfectly poached eggs, and vibrant vegetables—a nourishing choice after yoga. Between the incredible food, stunning scenery, and wonderful company, it was one of those afternoons you wish could last a little longer.

A Perfect Vancouver Island Morning

This experience was such a wonderful reminder of how important it is to make time for movement, friendship, and being outdoors.

Yoga in the sky, breathtaking views, matching Diet Coke hats, and lunch at The Eyrie Resort—it truly was one of those picture-perfect Vancouver Island mornings that fills your cup in every way.

If you ever have the opportunity to attend a special event at Malahat SkyWalk, don’t hesitate. Whether you’re there for yoga, a walk among the treetops, or simply to take in the views, it’s an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the beauty around you. ✨

Location: Malahat SkyWalk, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
After-Yoga Lunch: The Eyrie Resort at Malahat Summit
Instructor: Candice from Spinco Victoria
Vibe: Peaceful, energizing, scenic, and unforgettable. 💙

The post Yoga in the Sky at Malahat SkyWalk appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

They become memories. They become places, seasons, family traditions and little pieces of home that stay with us no matter where life takes us.

For me, COWS is one of those things.

So when I started thinking about how I wanted to celebrate my 55th birthday, I knew I wanted something fun, nostalgic and meaningful.

And I chose a theme that might seem a little unexpected.

COWS. 🐄

But if you know Prince Edward Island, you probably understand.

COWS isn’t just ice cream. It’s part of the Island experience.

It’s Cavendish. It’s summer. It’s waffle cones. It’s family outings. It’s that feeling of walking around PEI on a beautiful summer day with a scoop of ice cream in your hand.

For me, COWS is also a little taste of home.

Why COWS Felt Perfect for My 55th Birthday

Turning 55 naturally made me think about memories.

The older we get, the more we realize that some of the most meaningful things aren’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive moments.

Sometimes it’s a smell.

A song.

A familiar place.

Or a taste that takes you right back to another time.

For me, COWS brings back that feeling of being on Prince Edward Island.

It reminds me of summers, Cavendish and all those little moments that make PEI special.

So instead of choosing a traditional birthday theme, I wanted to celebrate 55 with something that represented fun, home and nostalgia.

COWS felt absolutely perfect.

And the more I learned about the company, the more I realized there was so much more to COWS than the ice cream cone we all know and love.

From One Little Shop in Cavendish to a PEI Icon

COWS began in 1983 in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, using an old fashioned family ice cream recipe.

The idea was simple.

Make really good ice cream.

Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest way to produce it, COWS focused on rich ingredients, traditional methods and creating something genuinely indulgent.

What started as a little ice cream shop eventually became one of the most recognizable brands associated with Prince Edward Island.

And that Island connection is still a huge part of what makes COWS special.

So Why Does COWS Ice Cream Taste So Good? 🍦

Let’s talk about the ice cream.

Because honestly, this is where COWS really shines.

COWS says its ice cream is made with 100% Prince Edward Island milk, fresh cream and real eggs. It contains 16% butterfat, and its traditional recipe is churned slowly with limited air incorporated into the mixture.

You can taste the difference.

COWS ice cream doesn’t have that light, airy texture you sometimes get from mass market ice cream.

It’s dense, silky, rich and incredibly creamy.

Then there are the flavours.

COWS is known for loading its flavours with things you can actually see and taste. Think English toffee, chocolate flakes, caramel, cheesecake pieces, fruit and other delicious additions.

It’s not shy ice cream.

It’s the kind of ice cream that makes you stop talking for a minute because you’re too busy enjoying it.

And Then There’s the Butter 🧈

I have to talk about the butter.

Because if you’ve ever spread COWS salted butter over warm bread and thought, “Why does this taste so much better?”, you’re not imagining it.

COWS Creamery makes butter using PEI milk, continuing the same commitment to quality that runs through the rest of the brand.

There is something wonderful about really good butter.

Put it on warm bread.

Add a little salt.

That’s it.

Sometimes the simplest foods are the ones where quality matters most.

COWS Cheese Might Be the Hidden Star 🧀

Now we get to a part of the COWS story that I think many people don’t know about.

The cheese.

COWS expanded into cheese making in the 2000s, and one of its most famous cheeses is Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar.

The inspiration came from traditional cheddar making in the Orkney Islands of Scotland.

Avonlea is made in the traditional clothbound style and aged to develop its flavour and character.

Instead of a mild, ordinary cheddar, you get something much more complex.

It’s firm, nutty, tangy and full of flavour.

And I love that this part of the story still connects back to PEI.

The milk, the Island, the craftsmanship and the traditional approach all come together in one beautiful piece of cheese.

The COWS T-Shirts Were an Unexpected Success

And then there’s the part of the COWS story that has nothing to do with dairy—and somehow became just as iconic.

The cow T-shirts. 🐄

In the 1980s, COWS employees began wearing cow-themed shirts. Tourists started asking if they could buy them, and in 1987, PEI graphic artist Marc Gallant created the whimsical cow designs that became a huge part of the brand’s identity.

What started as something fun for employees became an entire merchandise phenomenon.

That’s very COWS.

They’ve always managed to combine really good food with a sense of humour.

So Why Does COWS Taste So Different?

I think it comes down to a few things:

PEI milk.
COWS says PEI milk is the only milk it uses for its ice cream.

High butterfat.
That 16% butterfat level contributes to the rich, creamy texture.

Less air.
The ice cream is churned slowly with limited air incorporated, giving it that wonderfully dense consistency.

Traditional methods.
Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest production method, COWS has held onto the old-fashioned character of its original recipe.

Real ingredients.
Fresh cream, real eggs and substantial mix-ins make the flavours feel indulgent and satisfying.

Put all of that together and you get something that tastes very different from ordinary mass-market ice cream.

But I Think There’s Another Ingredient: Memory ❤️

And this might be the biggest one for me.

COWS isn’t just ice cream.

It’s PEI summers.

It’s Cavendish.

It’s walking around with a melting waffle cone in your hand.

It’s the smell of fresh waffle cones.

It’s a beach day followed by ice cream.

It’s Charlottetown.

It’s family vacations.

It’s Anne of Green Gables country.

It’s that feeling you get when something tastes exactly like a place you love.

COWS has become so closely connected to the Prince Edward Island experience that visiting one of its Island locations feels like part of the vacation itself. COWS currently lists locations in places including Cavendish and Charlottetown, as well as several other Canadian cities.

And if you grew up on PEI, I think that connection goes even deeper.

A tourist might taste really good ice cream.

But someone with PEI memories tastes summer.

The COWS Formula

Maybe that’s why I keep coming back to this simple idea:

PEI milk + quality ingredients + higher butterfat + traditional methods + a little Island nostalgia = ridiculously good dairy. ❤️🐄

From ice cream to butter to cheddar, COWS has managed to turn something as simple as milk into a genuine PEI experience.

And honestly?

I’ll take a scoop of COWS in Cavendish on a summer afternoon over almost any fancy dessert.

Give me a waffle cone, a beautiful PEI day and a flavour that’s packed with chunks of something delicious.

That’s happiness.

Have you tried COWS?

What’s your favourite flavour—or are you more of a butter and cheddar person?

Tell me in the comments. 🐄🍦🧈🧀

The post COWS, PEI & Turning 55: Why I Chose COWS as My Birthday Theme 🐄🍦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

The good news? You can achieve a similar polished look for a fraction of the price. This week, I’m sharing three of my favorite designer-inspired Amazon finds that capture the essence of iconic luxury bags while keeping your budget intact.

1. The Woven Tote: Quiet Luxury for Everyday

A woven tote is one of those bags that never goes out of style. It’s roomy enough for work, travel, or weekend errands while instantly making any outfit look more sophisticated.

The luxury version features handwoven leather craftsmanship with a price tag of over $10,000.

The Amazon alternative offers the same oversized woven aesthetic for around $70, making it an easy choice for anyone who loves effortless elegance without the splurge.

Why I love it:

• Spacious enough for work or travel
• Neutral color pairs with everything
• Classic woven texture
• Perfect everyday luxury-inspired tote

Luxury Price: $10,500
Amazon Alternative: Around $70

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Woven Tote Here:
👉 AMAZON WOVEN TOTE

2. The Designer-Inspired Duffel Everyone Is Talking About

Weekend trips deserve a stylish travel bag.

If you’ve admired the iconic patterned luxury duffels seen at airports and weekend getaways, you’ll love this affordable alternative.

The Amazon version features:

• Lightweight design
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Spacious interior
• Chic travel-ready look

At only $39, it’s an easy addition for anyone who wants their travel accessories to look polished without spending designer prices.

Perfect for:

• Weekend trips
• Gym sessions
• Carry-on travel
• Road trips

Luxury Inspiration: Goyard Travel Bag
Amazon Alternative: Around $39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Duffel Here:
👉 AMAZON DUFFEL BAG

3. The Woven Shoulder Bag That Looks Surprisingly Luxe

One of the biggest handbag trends over the past few years has been the woven leather shoulder bag.

The designer version sells for around $3,000, but I found an Amazon option for approximately $35 that captures the same minimalist, modern aesthetic.

What makes this bag stand out?

• Soft woven finish
• Clean silhouette
• Gold zipper details
• Neutral enough to pair with almost everything

It’s the perfect everyday bag when you want something elevated yet practical.

Luxury Price: $3,000
Amazon Alternative: Around $35-$39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Shoulder Bag Here:
👉 AMAZON SHOULDER BAG

Why I Love Finding “Look for Less” Pieces

While I appreciate beautiful designer craftsmanship, I also believe that personal style isn’t defined by a price tag. Thoughtfully chosen affordable pieces can create the same elevated, timeless look while leaving room in your budget for travel, family experiences, and everyday life.

These finds let you enjoy current trends without overspending, and that’s always a win in my book.

If you’ve been looking to refresh your wardrobe without investing thousands, these Amazon finds are definitely worth checking out.

Whether you’re shopping for:

✔️ A woven everyday tote
✔️ A stylish weekend duffel
✔️ A chic woven shoulder bag

…there’s a designer-inspired option that delivers the look for less.

Luxury style doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.

Happy shopping!

The post Luxury Designer Bag Alternatives: 3 Amazon Finds That Look Designer for Less (2026) appeared first on Living Hollis Style.