My birthday fell earlier this month, and luckily my parents and grandparents believe you’re never too old for “birthday money.”  I’ve been putting it to good use on the Internet in a small shopping spree these past several days and thought I’d share my goodies!  First, a print from Etsy seller dkim that I’ve wanted since sometime in 2006:

Next, this beautiful umbrella from Pare Umbrella.  I almost purchased a black one with a tailored case, but at the last moment I decided that I object to black umbrellas on the basis that they’re too common.  Forgot all about this decision until I actually opened the umbrella box at my house today, and saw its festive green stripes!:

(Also partial to this particular model because its called “The Mani”, and I used to have a friend named Mani.  Short for Manijeh.  Yes, this is generally how I make decisions….)

Also, this wonderful teacup painted by Irana Douer in Argentina (and thanks to a tip-off from the always-charming Nice):

Finally, two Ebay purchases that I couldn’t resist.  Stunning yellow shoes from Marcello Toshi.  (With heels so high I can’t possibly walk in them, but on the plus side they were $19.99 instead of $200+.)  And some vintage kimono fabric from Japan that I adore.  (“Huh, Ed, what fabric buying embargo? … I … uh, … I just … uh, … I plead the Fifth.”):