Happy New Year?
- Jamie Banks
- Jan 12, 2016
- 4 min read
I have a complicated relationship with the month of December. It’s the time of the year my husband and I take our annual vacation (yeah) and the time of the year my mom died (boo). Not to mention the holidays which can be yeah or boo depending on the situation. This year I was feeling pretty good, vacation went off without a hitch and Christmas was actually relaxing. Then the bottom fell out.
I got pneumonia on December 27th - I have never been so sick in my life. My husband was a saint - he donned one of those hospital masks and fed me drugs every four hours until I felt better (4 days later). In an ironic twist, I was feeling well enough to take the Christmas tree down and asked my boo to bring the decorations down to the basement. He did and in the process missed the last step on the stairs and broke his ankle - can't make this shit up. Now it’s my turn to take care of him. When the ball dropped on New Year's Eve I thought, Is this really a happy New Year? It was a good reminder right off the bat that there are going to be setbacks, but I am choosing to look at it that we have experienced all the bad luck for the entire year and can cruise from this point forward - yippee!
What will the New Year bring? Well, I have decided to change my ways in 2016…not a complete overhaul, but a few things. First up: travel. Those who know me are painfully aware I am a homebody. Give me my remote, my couch and my dogs and I am a happy girl. This year however I am intrigued by two destinations: Mexico City and Hong Kong. Something about the folklore and history of Mexico City intrigues me, both in textiles and architecture. Hong Kong, also known as the World’s City (I have no idea what that means) is rich in fashion and beauty (think of all the products I can bring back). Their obsession with image fascinates me and I want to soak in the culture and people watch and get inspired (for a few days, let’s not go crazy). The likelihood of me making either of these trips is 50/50 but I figured if I write it down the odds will rise. What would I pack for these destinations?
MEXICO CITY - AYE AYE AYE - WITH A SUN HAT AND SOME FLATS? YES PLEASE.
HONG KONG - OK, MAYBE WITH SOME PANTS...
My next item to address is my spending (sigh). I am still going to shop, but I am going to make an effort to ensure my purchases this year are meaningful (sorry Zara, this means we are on a break). I have a ton of clothes and want to make sure I am choosing quality pieces that hold some significance and will stay in my closet for more than a season. Case in point, on our annual vacation to Cabo San Lucas I saw a super cool utilitarian backpack. I of course wanted it right away. But after further examination it’s not only kickass looking, but also made by local Mexican artisans. I will always remember where it came from since Cabo holds a special place in my heart and I like I helped the local economy in the smallest of ways. Win-win (ganar-ganar).
In direct contrast to the above item I vow to up my jewelry game this year. I am loving all the interesting mix and match earrings and multiple ring looks currently dominating my fashion magazines. The look of an ear cuff and mismatched baubles is super chic but I haven't been courageous enough to fully commit. What I love about this movement is it's totally fun and creative. Anyone can do this and show a different side of their personality. Think of it as a conversation starter. Look at your earrings and pair similar metals or complimentary colors. I like some with a bit of an edge like below (shocker). I am even considering another ear piercing (sorry mom) to maximize my fun.
As for rings, I don't have the pretties of hands but I love me a statement ring. The bigger the better and I'm intrigued by the mix of a couple big pieces on one hand. I will heed my advice from above and make sure I love the pieces before I buy, but I have been visualizing this combination taking my wardrobe up a notch this year.
All in all I'm feeling optimistic about 2016. I am healthy, happy and doing what I love to do. Are you? I would love to hear what you want to accomplish this year - let me know and maybe I, or someone I know, can help. We are always better together. Bring it 2016.
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