Just a girl and her dog.  I'm Kate.  A recent law school graduate, painter, amateur seamstress, cook, and someone who from a young age delighted in all things beautiful.  I live in Austin, TX for the moment but am getting ready for a big move to Washington, DC...
Beauty to me is not only the classical things, but the obscure and chaotic moments in life that change the way you see the world.  I adore food (especially those involving cheese, chocolate, or bread) and can often be found in a kitchen whether my own or a friend's teaching them the little tricks I have learned. I created this blog in 2011 as a way to make something of my own because I was longing for an outlet while in law school.  I love my books, but you have to get out of your own head and create something now and then.  The Brown Umbrella became a way for me to catalog the meals I cooked, things I made, and other amazing finds along the way. 

Wailua 
(aka Lua, Beans, Lu Beans, Beanbag, Stinkybutt, or whatever else pops into my head)

The faithful sidekick, and vital partner in The Brown Umbrella.  She has an inner circle and once you are on the inside, you are golden, but until then it is best to ignore her.  She likes frisbees, swimming, and all forms of snacks.  Plus she knows some tricks.