The Saddest Kiss That Ever Was…
Apparently, I have issues with abandoned candy (see Urban Decay.) I warn you, this is strange commentary.
Saturday was a bright, unusually warm day in the Third Ward. We were out shopping, lunching and doing the Saturday thing. While strolling leisurely down the sidewalk, I saw something in the distance. I immediately recognized the golden foil wrapper, the little paper flag and the adorable drop shape of a Hershey kiss on the ground. At first I thought, “What a shame. That chocolate would’ve been delicious.” But on second thought, it struck me as the saddest thing I’d seen all day; one lonely Hershey kiss melting into the winter sidewalk. You might be thinking…c’mon, thats ridiculous. But is it? I think not and here is why:
1. This little bit of heaven is called a KISS. A kiss is the ultimate symbol of love and affection toward another. There is a reason we give these tasty morsels as gifts on Valentine’s Day.
2. The kiss appeared to be purposely placed upright directly below a copper drain. What heartless jerk would abandon a kiss so carelessly? Would they also abandon a puppy?
3. Through harsh Wisconsin weather and the drippy torture of the drain, this little kiss tried his hardest to be strong. His flag stood tall and his wrapper glistened in the light as if calling out to passers-by, “Take me home. Savor me. I’m still just as good as the other kisses.” What a champ.
Alas, I did not take the little guy home (because thats strange) but I did take his photo. I’m declaring him the official Hershey Kiss of Valentine’s Day 2009. Now kiss someone you love and never neglect your chocolate.
Urban Decay: Garbage or Coloring Your View?
This shiny, heart-shaped sucker was inside a planter outside my apartment. I despise, loathe, detest littering, but for whatever reason this flash of red caught my eye on the way to vote. I stopped to take several photographs of it which made me wonder: did this bit of garbage improve my day? There is ironic beauty in the striking color, the symbolic shape, the idea that someone tossed their “love” away and the fact that the sucker was still just garbage. The point is that there is beauty and history in all things…take a moment to observe your environment. While you’re at it, give a hoot…don’t pollute.
Fall Colors Revamped
Good news! You are not limited to wearing brown, forest green and mustard corduroy this fall. You don’t have to decorate the kitchen with harvest themed hand towels either. Bright, lively hues are totally in. While traditional colors are certainly acceptable and prevalent, you don’t have to ditch the mint scarf that you wore all summer. Brights are too much of a stretch? How about plums, warm grays and muted blues? You have no reason to be drab, so don’t.
I generally don’t shop at Pottery Barn, but I must say they do try hard. There is something to be said for effort. How I wish all things were colorful, clean and thoughtful (this includes people.) I was happy to stumble across this cheerful, nicely lit candle display occupying a quiet corner of an otherwise crowded, noisy mall. www.potterybarn.com
Anthropologie might be the most pleasant shopping experience anyone can have. The aesthetic is perfect from start to finish, a sensory rollercoaster that makes you sad when you have to leave. I love Anthropologie and these cute measuring spoons. They make me want to get all domestic and bake something. www.anthropologie.com
Bayview Carrots
The Bayview Outpost Natural Foods has beautiful produce. I love the colorful, meticulous displays. 2826 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 www.outpostnaturalfoods.coop
