Musings
She's Bacccckkkkkk
My ears are still humming with the delightful news that the one and only CKB will be re-launching CK Bradley in the form of "Camilla Bradley". It was just yesterday that I walked all the way to the local cobbler in the pouring rain for a last-resort effort in hope that they could fix the zipper on my CKB ditty bag (see here). The cosmetic bag I've had for years has accompanied me on countless travel adventures, regatta road trips and weekend escapades. I can't picture life without it. And the CKB cocktail dresses, belts, totes and skirts...well, that's a whole other list of mischievous memories.
My first summer in college I "interned" for Camilla, which was one of the most colorful times in my life (literally and figuratively). Although I did learn a great deal about "da business", I learned a few life lessons from CKB:
- How to whip up the most delicious yet lethal cocktail party punch
- How to master the game of strip twister, as puppies are barking and pet birds are flocking about in the living room while belting out the lyrics to "Call On Me"
- How to start a blender with a.....chainsaw.
- How to create a photo shoot anywhere, at any time, with anyone. Creative incentives for eager participants always help.
- A retro onesie ski suit never goes out of fashion.
- It is possible to "one-up" any guy with your athletic equipment, cars and toys.
- Don't taunt CKB with parsely....or do.
- When in doubt, don't be doubtful.
Congratulations to my friend, mentor and inspiration, Camilla, for carrying on your vision. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us!
Holiday Classics
One of my favorite aspects of the holiday season is the decorating. Decorating for the holidays can be so fun and easy; I often find that the small things can make a big impact. My go-to's include fresh garland and paper whites, perhaps a nod to my Mother's own holiday favorites. My all-time favorite holiday dining room is the above, designed by Mary McDonald and equipped with gorgeous garland and potted paperwhites amidst a traditional design scheme. Coincidentally, it looks like a carbon copy of the dining room in my childhood home - right down to the layout, moldings, chandelier and antique buffet.
Paperwhites not only make a beautiful (and fragrant) centerpiece, but a lovely holiday gift. They are typically grown from bulbs in a bed of soil or rocks and are fun to nurture and watch grow. Visit here to buy your own!
Side Note: As soon as I finished this post, I was greeted by a package from my Mother. Inside: a Ziploc bag full of dirt, two clay pots and amaryllis bulbs for holiday planting. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree...
The Power of Penmanship
Hand written notes and letters are some of my most prized possessions. There is something about a cherished friend, family member or lover taking the time to put a pen to paper to convey their thoughts to you - it is so wonderfully romantic, respectful and tender. Over the years, I've collected all of the heartfelt letters I've received and will often re-read and reflect on them. They remind me of certain events in life, whether sad times, moments of accomplishment, or simply someone reminding you why you're special to them. The collection is kept in an old wooden box of my Mother's that once housed sea shells from her honeymoon in Greece, and a letter from my Grandfather congratulating her on her engagement to my Father.
Every Christmas, my parents would gift my sister and I with a new box of personalized stationery. We usually groaned because we knew it was only a nudge to get started on our post-Christmas thank you notes. In retrospect, it was one of the best lessons my parents have instilled in us. Now, I truly believe stationary is one of the best investments one can make.
I think we can all take more time in life to write to those we care about. When was the last time you did?