African Elephant Hair Bracelet

Have you heard of these bracelets? Snook's grandma just gave her one and it's remarkably beautiful. They are crafted to resemble the originals (now illegal) that were woven from African elephant hair. The bracelet's legend dates back more than 1,200 years: It was believed wearing one would bring strength and good fortune. The four knots symbolize sun, wind, fire and water, and the four strands running through them represent the seasons. Thinking I could use a whole (legal) armload!

My New Happy Place

Last week, I needed to shop for a special gift for my mom (Happy Retirement, Mom!). So I decided to check out a newish boutique in town called Rosamariposa. While there, my heart did about twenty backflips because I found my mom a perfectly whimsical gift, AND I found some of the most unique and stylish jewelry I've seen in a while at seriously rock bottom prices. We're talking $5 earrings and $10 necklaces aplenty. For imported, all natural, and sustainable pieces that beg to be worn. When I asked the owner about her prices, she just said, "I like to keep things simple." That's my kind of simplicity. I let Snook have my camera to keep her occupied while I shopped. Here are some of her images, but I urge you to take a look at the website for a slightly less abstract take on why I'm so enamored. There are also cute shoes, bags, tunics, scarves and hats, sans the sticker shock you'll experience at most boutiques. It really is a very happy place that I pretty much am looking for any excuse to go back to.