Beads, [Braids], Shells, & Things...
Inspirations for summer from a classic.
I was in LA when the Knicks defeated the Spurs for the NBA Championship that took 53 years to see out. Now, I’ve been living in NYC for the past 11 years and even though I think I’ve earned the right to identify myself as a “New Yorker”, it wasn’t until all of the hoop-la of the impending championship that I never actually felt like I could rightfully call myself that. I still very much felt like a poser. (And I also want to say true to my Atlanta roots.) But the energy around the city was electric. It’s still somewhat lingering on as the month closes out. And for once in a very long time, I had quite the FOMO of not physically being in NYC to experience the kinetic energy first hand.
On my flight back, I watched Spike Lee’s Crooklyn – one of my top five favorite movies of all time. I don’t need any reason to re-watch this classic. It’s quite a go-to for me, especially during the summer. But this particular moment felt even more fitting. During its 115 minutes, Crooklyn takes you on a journey throughout Bed-Stuy – centering around Troy Carmichael, as she navigates family dynamics around her rambunctious brothers and her loving parents, who are trying to get on the same page for running a household. All set during the summer of 1973, which ironically was the last time when the Knicks won the NBA championship.
Crooklyn always takes me on a journey of emotions. From lots of laughter, to tears, and then more laughter again. But Aunt Song’s southern demeanor, coupled with her confusion and curiosity over Troy’s hairstyle has always stuck with me. “Beads, braids, shells, and things,” is how she referred to Troy’s hair; even after she took it out. And with that simple line is what inspired this week’s newsletter. Beads, shells, and things are what I’m constantly leaning towards throughout the summer and I am sure you are too. Here are some things I’m eyeing.
Beads…
Shells…
Things…
Happy summer!
xo Kia
oh fun!