It’s Weekend Meanderings time with Elizabeth and Juliet, and our chance to share some cool things that have come to our attention this week! I hope your week has been good. I’m on the mend from Covid, which I came down with on Easter.. Thankfully I tested before my dad popped over for Easter Brunch. I thought I had allergies! It’s smart to do a test if you’re gathering and feel as thought you have seasonal allergies..You never know right now.
Have you used table throws?
I was sad to take down my Easter table, but I had bought this Marrrakesh Embroidered Table Throw from Pottery Barn a few weeks ago, and was excited to use it. I love how the clementines and the wood bowl warm it up. Having a black table is nice, but sometimes I feel like a pop of bright.
Have you used table throws? I kind of like that they show some of the dining table and have a more casual feel than a full tablecloth. I can use them on my outside table too as they can go on any size which is convenient. Pottery Barn seems to have the best collection and about 18 of them here.
I really like the lovely embroidery on this one.
Earth Day
I love Earth Day and also this yearly reminder to try harder to do the right thing for the planet.
On 2020, I wrote a blog about the history of Earth Day on it’s 50th anniversary and its founder Gaylord Nelson, who has connections to my alma mater, San Jose State, and Wisconsin.
Read all about Earth Day, it’s history and more small ways to make a difference each day on my post here!
You can join in this weekend’s Earth Day events that are happening all over the Bay Area! I wish I could get to the Earth Day Festival in SF. This weekend there are clean up days, talks, fairs and celebrations here all detailed here.
If you can’t get to one, grab a bag pick up trash on your local beach or walk, start using your own shopping bags, water bottle and coffee mugs and say no to straws and plastic bags and bottles as much as you can! It’s the little things done by us all that make a difference. Buy used and upcycled and less and better quality when you shop.
Straw Totes
In the Earth Day mindset, I though sharing a few great woven market totes might be in order. During the pandemic a lot of us fell out of our wonderful habit of carrying reusable bags to shop. People got weird about it, and frankly there never was a lot of proof that Covid was carried by bags at all, but at the beginning we didn’t know did we? Can we all please go back to bringing our bags? That made a HUGE impact on the earth.
A great idea is to use a cute market bag as your purse. I did this all last summer with this inexpensive woven tote, just like the French women do. I lined the bottom of it with a few of my favorite nylon shopping bags folded up, and voila, I always have shopping options. If the tote can’t fit all my groceries, the bags in the bottom will.
I use mine for travel, tennis and as my handbag. Great for a day out at the Farmer’s Market too. They come in so many sizes. Choose a one that will work for your budget, but also that you feel comfy to carry on a daily basis.
The straw bag has style cred and the girls carrying one that costs $20 are as equally chic as Gucci logo one in my opinion. Have fun and personalize it with a scarf or a tassel if you want. For the big open totes, I throw my wallet and keys in a zipper pouch and toss in. Some of these have pouches that come with them or fabric inserts that tie on top if you like…
Here’s a few that I thought were lovely..
Just like my collection of white shirts, I think it’s kind of nice to also have a little collection of straw bags. Look at this great display of my Instagram pal, La Dolfina’s home. She has a vintage shelf ( maybe from a department store) and her bag collection! Some gems in there. She’s one of my favorite antique hunter/collectors and her account is here.
And don’t forget our friend Contessa and her fab collection of totes that go with her caftans we shared on this post. By the way, she’s in the caftan business now and is selling beautiful monogrammed ones! Go check out her site and see before they are gone on this post.
White Shirt Foundations..
If you caught post this week about my love for white shirts, someone asked what to wear under them. A good skin-toned bra is ideal and is okay if it shows a little, depending on your comfort. Getting a bra as close to your natural skin is the best and my favorite that has support, and a lot of comfort and a nice smoothing back is this Wacoal Bra, below. This option by Chantelle is also highly rated for under t-shirts and things and this by Spanx has more skin tone colors.
If your white shirt is extra light and sheer, you can opt for a silky camisole, or a thin white tank or in something like a slub cotton for comfort and breathability. They are an important wardrobe staple you can layer. This from Banana Republic is the softest tank, not tight, and just the right length and weight for layering under something and comes in more colors. Hanro also makes excellent pieces and has this cotton seamless tank and this cotton v-neck camisole. All three below…
A new fish taco recipe
Looking for something fresh to cook? Well this week Max has done all the cooking and always loves trying new things. Today he made the best fish tacos from Once Upon a Chef, one of our go-to cookbooks. This recipe is totally different to us. He made a delicious crema for it and also pickled his own onions for it, which made it outstanding. He bought fresh cod and we thought this is one for our regular rotation – and so colorful!
The recipe is not on her site, so I am sharing here. Find the recipe in her book, Weeknight/Weekend.
Many more wonderful recipes on her website.
National Parks on Netflix
Have you seen the new Netflix series, Our Great National Parks? It’s produced and narrated by former President Obama and the first episode takes place in Indonesia, where Obama’s mother moved them for a few years the he was young. It’s so good and I can’t recommend it enough. Our world is unbelievable.
Guncle
If you’re looking for a new book that’s funny as well as heartwarming, read The Guncle! It’s the story of a gay uncle who is a former sitcom star living in Palm Springs who ends up caring full time for his young niece and nephew. The dialogue is hilarious and he is a fantastic character. I really am enjoying it.
I’ve been on the mend from Covid, but improving every day. I just feel fortunate to have not gotten this for almost two years, and now with the vaccine and booster it’s bearable. I have had three days where I took Advil for aches and fever and sore throat. I drank many mugs of tea with fresh yard lemons and honey and lots of chicken soup. I also sat in the sun as much as I could. I hope you are all staying well!
Well that’s my meanderings for this week now please pop over and see what great ideas my friends Elizabeth and Juliet have for you…I’m always learning so much from those two!
PINECONES AND ACORNS
MAKE MINE A SPRITZER
Wishing you all a beautiful weekend.
Thank you for being here!
Kim
If you missed last week’s post with the Mark D. Sikes collaboration with Anthro, Liberty x J. Crew home collection and a great California playlist, and more- find that post here.
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So glad you’re feeling better, Kim. Good morning! Love the idea of a table throw, and as queen of throw throws how did I not know?! I’m a huge fan of totes as grocery bags. Ok I’m a huge fan of them for anything … and these are some amazing options. As usual, I want every single one. The National Park series looks so good and I can’t wait to see it. As for tee shirt bras … I need new ones and this is very timely. As usual you’ve got me covered. And now I’m off to see those famous Chicago penguins. Have a wonderful weekend! xo
Juliet, Love the totes too.. Writing this is always a danger. I told myself I could add a new one, but hard to choose! I know spring is a good time to refresh the foundation pieces I think. Have the best time in Chicago!!! xx
Glad to hear you are feeling better! Love Once Upon a Chef and the fish tacos sound great. Will have to buy her book now!!! Also thanks for the tip on Our National Parks. Always on the lookout for something new to watch. Be well!
I have used the table throw over a tablecloth in the past.
Thank you for the mention and I too have used BASKET BAGS for years…….I love the AFRICAN ONES great for GROCERIES!
CAFTANS CAFTANS CAFTANS…………are in FASHION finally again after years of not being so WITH IT!
I have a client who bought 8 and will be using as her SUMMER UNIFORM!What a GREAT IDEA!
I remember I sold you a vintage one with FLOWERS years ago……from the HENHOUSE!
I am thrilled to be collaborating with TRISH who KNOWS HOW TO SEW!
AND OH MY GOSH………LA DOLFINA.
IT IS A SMALL SMALL WORLD!
XXX
Elizabeth, You always inspire me with your basket bags! I do remember that cute vintage caftan. I think it was lost in out move which makes me so sad! La Dolfina.. She is a sweet person and haven’t seen her posting for a long time. xo
Kim, thankfully you are on the mend! Makes sure to take it easy so that you don’t wear yourself out and are open to another infection. How wonderful to have your husband making scrumptious meals to keep up your strength. I have that cookbook and love the blog too! Always delicious and beautiful images.
My husband is actually smoking ribs right now for dinner. I will be making blue cheese coleslaw and fresh picked strawberries for dessert.
I’ve not used a table throw, I typically use a vintage tartan blanket on the table from my collection(from summer to winter). Yours is beautiful! Pottery Barn has so many fabulous block prints this season that you might like. I also featured a company/shop in India that does all hand made pieces, the links are on Friday Favorites.
Your woven baskets are beautiful! Make sure to check out TJMAXX and Marshalls too, even aline, they have some inexpensive beautiful bags.
I am going to try your idea to use my bag as a purse/carry all this summer. It is such a great idea.
I love a white shirt, so classic and crisp. I think they look great with everything.
Elizabeths bags and caftans look fabulous on her.
If you enjoyed National Parks be sure to watch the National Parks on PBS by Ken Burns, breathtaking.
Have a wonderful weekend, loved seeing all of the interesting things on your radar this week. Take care and be well. xo
Thank you Elizabeth! I know I am grateful Max is taking care of me. Your dinner sounds so delicious. I am curious about blue cheese coleslaw. Tartan blankets sound like a unique table covering! I agree Pottery Barn and your Etsy shop you linked to had some great things. I do check out Homegoods. Our hasn’t maybe soon? I did watch the Ken Burn’s parks show too. The Obama one is about parks all over the world, but also some in the U.S. Both great shows. Loved your post – and the Friday one too. xo
Hi Kim,
glad to hear You are getting better from Covid. I think if we are all reaching herd immunity- The severity of the disease iseems to be getting less . My daughter had it for about a week in February and besides having a dry cough and feeling a little tired she said it wasn’t too bad.
As usual, I love everything you post. I have always loved table throws. ( and that shot of yours on the table in front of the French doors is fantastic !) I have picked up some beautiful ones in Indonesia , China and Vietnam. I have also picked up some gorgeous scarves and I end up using them as a table throw! Kind of double duty. I have used market baskets a lot, especially at farmers market- I have a fabulous bag I bought in Bali. It’s the square shaped and line in the most beautiful boutique fabric. I have an old coach wicker purse with leather handles and a leather buckle and I keep pulling out every year, I keep thinking it won’t last but it still does. I can only hope I get one more season from it.
Now I’m off to search for the Camisole from banana republic- I have some linen shirts that I like to wear a camisole with! Have a great week, and I hope you’re feeling much better.
Xo martha
Hi Martha, So hope you are right about herd immunity! I have had it over a week now, and with three bad days.. The rest not too bad just tired- and still positive unfortunately!
I think the table throws are cool too. So awesome you can collect beautiful things in your travel job. I love that. Your bags sound wonderful too. Let me know how the camisole thing works out.
I hope you are resting and taking care this weekend. I am moving pretty slow too. xo
I love your blogs and always seem to take your advice and order one of your suggestions which I ordered one of the MANGO straw bags. Love it!! Heal quickly and rest!!!!
Xoxoxoxo
Julie
Hi Julie I ordered one of there Mango bags too! I thought they were cute for the prices right? Hope you like it. Thank you for ordering from here too.xx
KIm, get well so you can go straight to the post office to send me those floral sandals!! Or better yet, can you’ll me the brand? Thanks! Arlene
Hi Arlene! The flower sandals are Gucci slides I’ve had about three years.. So comfy and still going strong after a zillion wears.. They seem pricey, but cost per wear, they are worth it. This is a link to them. x Kim
https://rstyle.me/+OLepa1fL3HfC3GvvvhLzxw
Happy to read that you’re feeling better. I keep hearing that these new variants are so highly transmissible that we will all likely contract one at some point. My husband and I feel very fortunate to have dodged the bullet thus far.
I love white shirts too, but sadly they don’t love me. I look washed out and awful in white. If only it were as easy to find ivory or ecru shirts and blouses in as many styles as you showed! Hello, retailers, are you listening?
I started using a Turkish towel as a table runner. So simple and a bargain to boot.
The fish recipe looks wonderful. On the list of things to try!
Hi Sarah, I’m starting to believe it after getting this. I have been so careful the past two years, but also know others who recently got it, who are like me. Stay safe.. this isn’t fun and hanging on. So I know it’s not as easy to find ecru shirts is it? I’ll keep my eyes out for them!
A Turkish towel is a fantastic idea. I have a bunch of them as well and they are pretty. What a cute beach/casual vibe for a spring or summer table! Thanks for that idea. xx
Hi Kim,
I’m glad you’re feeling better. Take it slow and really kick this thing. Lucky for you Max is handy in the kitchen. I’m inviting myself over for the next batch of fish tacos!! (JK)
Love those market bags, I have one that I keep by the back door. Great for Farmer’s market day! And so many other things, too! I’m always transporting a million objects and it’s nice to have one bag to stow them in. Makes life easier.
The table throws are fun, I didn’t know I was on trend when I’ve been using fabric and tablecloths that are a little smaller than the table to add color and texture.
“The Guncle” has come up often, I’m going to need to read it! I got a bunch of new books for my b-day but this one will be on my reading list when I’m done with those!
Take care of yourself!
Xo Heidi
Hi Heidi.. Yes we will aadd these tacos to our entertaining ideas! I do love your market tote. It’s super cute. Using smaller tablecloths- even ones meant for card tables or fabric remnants could work! I’ve done both. The Guncle is a fun read. xx
I just discovered your blog through Southern Hospitality and am happily reading my way through some of your posts. I was born in San Francisco, grew up in Houston and have spent the last 22 years in Austria with my (now) Austrian husband – we just got married last year. In Austria, recycling is a huge issue, something I had to get used to when I first moved overseas. And my husband and I always take our own bags with us when grocery shopping. So many people do in Europe.
Hi Alison! Thank you so much for being here. Wow what a cool life you have led! A native Californian, yay.
I love Austria! We have spent some of our best times near Salzburg. I want to see more of it. I admire the Europeans so much and they were WAY ahead of us doing all this. I remember visiting 16 years ago and everyone had their own grocery bags ..something we really hadn’t even tried. Thanks for chiming in here. xx
Glad to hear you are feeling better Kim! Thank goodness you took the test before your dad came over. I have been using mostly placemats and/or chargers lately with a table runner but I really like the throw idea vs. a tablecloth. I love our new dining room table so don’t like to cover it up.
La Dolfina was the first blog I ever read which eventually let me to yours I believe. (probably through Adrienne) I do miss Terri’s blog I just love her she is so creative and hooked me with her Chinoiserie/Costal design..
I made fish tacos last week, mine are baked in panko but your recipe sounds good too. I use Rubio’s sauce (a blend of yogurt and sour cream) Will have to try yours next time.
Linda
Hi Linda! I know so happy I did not infect my dear dad. The table throw is kind of a more modern idea if you like your table and don’t want that full tablecloth look right?
La Dolfina was one of my first blogs, and Adrienne’s! Terri is the most creative and I miss her.
I haven’t hear of Rubio’s sauce. I’ll have to give it a try.
Wow Linda thanks for being a long-time reader. xo
Happy to hear you are feeling better Kim! Can you imagine if you weren’t vaccinated and boosted?! Now you’ll have lots of antibodies!
I always love your style and finds! So many cool straw bags! It’s time to get mine out for the season! I’m going to order that book! It sounds like a perfect summer read!
xx