I took this shot of Ilona when I went to visit her in Provincetown a few weeks ago. Ilona made her polka dot skirt from an old bathrobe, her necklace is a vizor flipped upside down, and she customized her shoes by painting intricate patterns and swirls in silver and blue paint. At 97, Ilona also continues  to swim and paint everyday. Lately she has been busy with signings for her magical book of wisdom and poetry. If you haven’t already checked it out you can find copies HERE.

I’ve been visiting my dear friend and star of the Advanced Style Documentary and books, Ilona Royce Smithkin, in Provincetown for a few days. The other day she had a packed book signing for her wonderful book Joy Dust. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, copies are available HERE. At 97, Ilona’s spirit shines brighter than ever. She radiates joy with  each twinkle of her brilliant eyelashes! I am so grateful for the time we get to spend together and am inspired to live each day with a little more sparkle.

Anyone who has the privilege to spend time with Ilona Royce Smithkin, has had the rare opportunity to witness a true artist. Someone so full of life, authenticity, brilliance, and artfulness that each moment with her makes you want to live a little more thoughtfully, generously, and colorfully. With one word, or bat of a magical lash, Ilona can put the most seemingly difficult situations into perspective. I am incredibly lucky to know and call Ilona one of my dearest friends. She has changed my life in innumerable ways and I want to wish  her nothing but the utmost joy and peace on her 97th Birthday. Ilona, thanks so much for accepting me into your life and helping to inspire the lives of so many! We love you Ilona!!!

I try to visit Ilona every year at her summer place in Provincetown. This time I was lucky to spend a whole week soaking in all of her wonderful wisdom and positivity. Ilona has been painting and drawing everyday and will be having a show of her portraits of famous Provincetown artist at the museum this summer. If you happen to be near Provincetown this summer stop by The Karilon gallery at  447 Commercial Street to see some of Ilona’s work!