Dwelling

I'm walking to my apartment, headache knocking at my temples, stomach clenched in discontent, the usually soothing breeze pushing oppressively on my body. Returning to my apartment means the start of many hours of work. I replay my mental to do list as if this will somehow make me feel better, or give me some sense of control, or perhaps just to dwell. As I approach my apartment and reach for my keys I see a group of three young girls in the parking lot across from my building. They are spinning in circles, twirling like whirligigs in the warm evening wind, completely consumed in their moment together. Given my brooding state, it seems so surreal - a happiness oasis forever just beyond my next step. Fortunately it's not an oasis at all, and the message is not lost on me. 

Almost an hour later, my dancing muses still grace the pavement below my window with primitive pirouettes. Dwelling in their movement, their laughter, their friendship, and their floating skirts. Was there ever a more worthy thing to dwell upon?

Lazy Sunday: Reading Up

It's another Sunday night of homework, laundry, and putting away groceries for me, but if I were to have a lazy Sunday this week it would look something like this. It must be the recent holiday that has me yearning to learn more about the issues we're facing domestically and educate myself about the current affairs and cultures of others residing on this fine planet of ours. Of course, educating oneself is best done from a stylish chair in a contemporarily well-lit room while donning a pair of old-school specs. Sipping a cocktail may dim your wits, so I'd opt for some fresh squeezed grapefruit juice to keep your mind, and palate, sharp. Naturally, when the time comes to join some equally enlightened companions for a deep discussion about the most fascinating tidbits you learned, you'll reach for your minimalist wooden briefcase to tote those dog-eared issues of the Economist and the New Yorker for quick reference. 

Yes, you can really buy this unique beauty of a briefcase designed by Japanese industrialist Takumi Shimamura. Check out the details at this roughly translated webpage. 

What will you educate yourself about this week? 

Fourth of July Inspiration

We've entered the fine month of July and that means 4th of July celebrations are upon us. Need a little outfit inspiration? There are so many ways to wear red white and blue, and show your own brand of patriotic style for that matter, without opting for rhinestone encrusted flag sweatshirts or George Washington novelty socks. Here are a few visual pairings to inspire your own take on patriotic fashion when the holiday hits.