Tea Time Crime

Flower clips: Capelli, ULTA

It's been eleven years, but I finally found my way back to cozy mystery author Laura Childs.  In 2012, I got crafty with a book from Childs' New Orleans-set scrapbooking series called Frill Kill.  This time I moved on to a volume from her Charleston-based tea shop series entitled Haunted Hibiscus.  Yet the more things change, the more they stay the same.  Because in both books I was struck not by whodunit-related intrigue, but, surprise surprise, fanciful fashion:

"Racks of denim jackets, skirts, and slacks were jammed next to soft sea island cotton dresses and diaphanous beach cover-ups.  A circular rack had long ball gowns and filmy silk wraps to match.  Antique highboys spilled out offerings of jeweled belts, strappy sandals, hand-painted silk scarves, bangle bracelets, and beaded handbags." (223)   

This scene takes place at a "denim and diamonds" event in an upscale boutique.  Yet as much as it charmed me (and it charmed me a lot), I'd be remiss in not reporting that the piping hot cup of homicide that is Haunted Hibiscus heats up when an author is hanged in a haunted house.  It's a grim incident to say the least, so Childs' imagery of beautiful clothes, as well as that of heroine Theodosia Browning's picture-perfect Indigo Tea Shop, go a long way in dispelling the gloom.   

Much like, I suppose, a restorative cup of Earl Grey or Celestial Seasonings.

Fall From Space: Celestial Reasonings

Dress: So, Kohl's

Boots: Penny Loves Kenny, Amazon

Top: So, Kohl's

Bag: LC Lauren Conrad, Kohl's; Bangles: B Fabulous; Ring: Mixit, JCPenney

Fabulous Felt Autumn Elegance Barrette

Dress: Jessica Simpson, Amazon

Choker and barrettes: Kohl's

Ring: Mixit, JCPenney; Bag: Privileged, Zulily; Boots: Penny Loves Kenny, Amazon; Tights: HUE, Amazon

Skirt: Rewind, Kohl's

Bag: Mellow World, Kohl's; Ring: Charlotte Russe; Red and yellow bangles: B Fabulous; Zigzag bangle: Strawbridge & Clothier; Green bangle: Burlington Coat Factory

Shoes: Chase & Chloe, Zulily; Tights: HUE, Zulily

Top: LC Lauren Conard, Kohl's

Now that we're into November, it's finally starting to feel like fall.  And not just because it's cooler and leaves are actually falling from the trees.  But because Halloween is behind us, with Thanksgiving just around the corner.  So, wearing gold and boots and leaf-themed things feels less like a bit and more like real life.  I even busted out last year's Thanksgiving dress and made a new leaf barrette complete with a crescent moon.  And you know what?  It turns out that autumn, although not my usual cup of tea, is very colorful.  And also very nice.  

 

Harvest Moon Barrette Brooch

So, welcome fall!  I'm finally happy that you're here.

I'll miss you come December when I'm dragged, kicking and screaming, into Christmas.

The Fate Beyond: Moon Dreamer Creamer

Top: Self Esteem, Macy's; Skirt: Delia's, Dolls Kill; Shoes: Worthington, JCPenney; Bag: Charming Charlie

When people say "out-of-this-world herbs," they're usually talking about something stronger than tea.  But for me, the wonders of the galaxy never seem more majestic or clearer than when I'm curled up with a cup of Celestial Seasonings cinnamon apple spice.  (And no, as always, this isn't paid advertising.  Although also as always, Celestial Seasonings, I'm game if you are.)  

Knowing that you're part of something bigger than yourself (in this case, outer space, not tea drinking) is miraculous and yeah, kind of comforting.  It makes you realize that insulting your boss's husband's bowl cut, having an always mildewed tub, and/or inhaling Chunky Monkey when you're supposed to be eating kale chips aren't that serious in the grand scheme of things.  Unless, of course, cheating on your diet eventually leads to a heart attack that kills you.

That said, I really enjoyed the zen-ness of zoning out and making this celestial-themed jewelry.  The star, planet, and crescent moon charms made me feel connected to the universe and reminded me of those adorable '80s dolls known as Moon Dreamers.  Even if, unlike those dolls, they don't have hair that glows in the dark.

Celestial Star Necklace

Celestial Star Earrings

Celestial Star Bracelet

Now, if you'll excuse me, it's time to make my tea and howl at -- er, stare at -- the moon.  No need to consult your Farmers' Almanac to check if it's really out in my corner of the world tonight.  Because it's always there in spirit.  

Just like your zinger about the bowl cut.