Styling like Mary Poppins

Last year I found myself chuckling at all the women carrying around parasols in the summer sunshine.  How much could an umbrella really keep you cool?  But I'd see them all the time. 

There are parasols for sale at lots of shops around town.  Most of them advertise UV protection.  They tend to be dark in color and could easily be confused for an umbrella.

I decided to join the game and see if the small umbrella really makes a difference in the hot sunshine.  Instead of buying a parasol off the rack, I had one made for me using one of my mother-in-law's kimonos.  There is a company (well, I'm sure there is more than one) that takes kimonos and creates bags, purses, parasols, and so much more.  If I was going to walk around with a parasol, it needed to be beautiful. 

We are right in the middle of Obon - a Buddhist custom to celebrate loved ones that have passed on.  This was the perfect time to carry this parasol to honor my mother-in-law who passed away over 5 years ago.

As we venture out with the parasol, I totally feel a difference in the heat.  Just having my head consistently in the shade helps immensely.  It is a pain to carry the parasol all day, but I think it is worth it.

After being hesitant to "join the club," I'm so glad I did.  I enjoy the little bit of relief the parasol provides.  Since this particular parasol has sentimental meaning for me, I know I will carry it again and again.