Divatosity

This necklace has been on loan from my mother's jewelry box since 1992. This necklace has seen me through me 4 colleges, 5 states, a few boyfriends, and countless events. Originally, I promised to return this necklace to my mother after college graduation. Yet for some reason, I cannot bear to part with this necklace. The vibrant colors of this necklace glam up even the most conservative attire.

This photo was snapped last month during the midst of the chaotic Christmas season. I hosted my first Christmas in my apartment. I purchased my first Christmas tree and cooked the holiday meal. Strangely, I did not feel an ounce of stress. In fact, I was excited and honored to host the festivities at my place. There a couple of mishaps but, overall it was a great day.  

Courtesy of Freedigitalphotos.net This Christmas will be a little more festive than ones in recent years. Mostly, because I am buying a Christmas tree and making a good faith effort this weekend to decorate my apartment.  Last year, my apartment was sparsely furnished and we spent Christmas huddled around a folding table and chairs. The only Christmas decoration hanging up was a wreath. My lack of furniture did not prevent my guests from enjoying great food and lively conversation. This year, I have a couch, coffee table chair,  and TV stand. Word on the street is that an ottoman will soon grace my living room as well. But, most importantly I feel more at home here in this apartment than ever before.

 Earlier in the week, a couple of friends and I attended a Third Eye Blind concert. We stood in line for what seemed like forever. The icy November winds whipped around us and caused momentary lapses in our conversation. An hour later, the Texas based opening act Hydra Melody took the stage and I was impressed with their energy and the clever lyrics of their songs. Most notably, their haunting song entitled: "California" struck a chord with me. It made me think of the relationships which I had to break off during the early 2000's because of  my decision to move to California. The auditorium is on the chilly side and we spend a majority of the evening singing and dancing whilst wrapped up in our winter gear. Still, I had a blast singing along to the classic Third Eye Blind songs such as: "Jumper" , "Never Let You Go", "Semi-Charmed Life" amongst others.

I spied these flowers just a few weeks ago during an afternoon stroll in my neighborhood. I was surprised at the resilience of these flowers. Still hanging in there in the midst of autumn.

I first spied this lovely kimono about a month ago during our local Japanese festival. I was struck by its simple yet, ornate appearance. I recall years ago, wearing kimonos as dressing gowns and for date nights.  You can find kimonos on eBay , Etsy , Japanese specialty shops, thrift stores, and even flea markets.

 One of my favorite aspects of early autumn is sitting outside and watching the sunset with a mug of hot peppermint tea. Within a few minutes, the day's earlier stresses melt away. I am left with this feeling of quiet elation.