In my strange little mind I have come to the decision that certain items make you a grown up. Yep, that's right, I'm defining myself by the objects that surround me (or rather, will surround me when I am indeed, a grown up). And, I would like to add, if I see people with these items I get super jealous/I'm super impressed by them. Race me to the finishing line in becoming an adult!
#1 The Candle.
Specifically, one in a glass jar. More specifically, a Diptyque candle.
I bought my first Diptyque candle the other week. It was something I was unbelievably excited to do. And when I finally plucked up the courage to spend a silly amount of money on essentially a block of wax with a wick, I can safely say I never felt more grown up and sophisticated. Ever. It's taken me two more weeks to light it. And that was a great moment.
I got the mimosa scented one. It's delicious and fresh and zesty. I'm quite a fussy person when it comes to candles and smells (if you want to buy perfume for me, ask what I like, or good luck choosing the right scent. Seriously) and this little candle is perfect for me. They aren't over powering and I love the simplicity of the packaging and jar and everything.
Can you tell I'm excited?! Get one. It will be the best decision you make. And they're not just for women, my friend enjoys a bath with his candle flickering away on a regular basis. And he's definitely a man.
#2 The Bialetti Espresso Maker
Mel told me I was a food snob the other day and whilst I wholeheartedly disagree with this (I simply like good food, from a good proper farm) I will be the first to admit I'm a bit of a coffee snob. Not a fan of the instant stuff. I'll drink it at silly o'clock in the morning before waking the girls up but if I can avoid it, I will.
Anyway I've decided I need to invest in one of these babies. A few of my friends have them and they really do make the most delicious coffee. Super fresh and not at all bitter (I hate bitter coffee- why should you need to add sugar?). Now, the actual process of making coffee in these things still baffle me, but I think if I want good coffee I'm going to have to learn how to use one. I'm fairly certain it'll be worth it.
#3 Art Work
I'm not referring to a generic Jack Vettriano print of the dancing couple, no, I'm talking about a real piece of art. Not necessarily by a famous artist (I definitely will never have enough money to invest in something like that- though, if you're looking to invest in something and you have a great budget, then art is your answer) I'm more thinking a good local artist who potentially has promise. I have loved Sarah Britnell for many years now. It's probably not for everyone and it's quite commercial (I do love a good piece of concept art too) but I think if you have the right surroundings, this artwork will look great in a kitchen, utility room, boot room, whatever.
This is pretty great too- unknown artist however. Shame.
I think I'm going to start with this print first though. I'll give the real art a few more years, and a few more pennies.
#4 The Organiser
Leather bound, smelling of importance, with my initials engraved on it. I want it.
This little (it's actually quite large) number by Smythson has caught my eye. I think it would look perfect in my handbag, or clutched in my arms, en route to my very important meetings. My friends bought me a beautiful fountain pen with my initials inscribed on the lid for my 21st and I feel it needs an equally beautiful pal to keep it company. And I think this would be just the ticket.
Just look at its splendor! Even the pages are glimmering in a coating of gold... Oooo aaahh!
#5 The Coffee Table Book(s)
I love these. And seeing them in other people's homes makes me so excited. I recently bought The New York Times' '36 hours in Europe'. It's a great (big) book documenting how to spend a long weekend in your favourite European city, doing things that aren't the cliche. I hate cliched tourism. Urgh. I also bought this super beautiful guidebook of Marrakech- I keep waving it under Mel and Sarah's noses to remind them to book flights/a hotel. It'll work eventually.
I really fancy this book on Scandinavian interior design too.
So there you have it. If you've got some of these items and you invite me round to your house, then I'm going to be a very happy, and impressed, bunny. I have a selection of these things, and I shall endeveaour to collect them all. It might take me a few years though.
We can all attempt to be adults but sometimes that isn't fun. As my friend just told me, he can be an adult or just hide, maybe I can do that for a bit too? Either way, I'm still going to get these things. Then at least I can pretend to be an adult, and that's almost it.
L.
