On this post..My June must list, tomato garden tips from my dad, a charming California home refresh, pretty slip dresses, and my new bed I just ordered.
I had a busy week. It was so nice my youngest son Griffin was here for a while and now he’s off again back to Utah where he is working for the summer. I can’t believe it is already June. I just love the idea of summer.. and all the possibilities it brings! Do you feel the same?
I’m also working on my yard when my allergies aren’t killing me.. Anyone else suffering more this year with them? I also have the French Open on non-stop. I love it!
Things on my June list..
Start wearing a tinted moisturizer- or mix a bronzer into my moisturizer for a sunkissed look. (I have used this one which is also a sunscreen.)
Do a body and face scrub and hair mask one evening or weekend..
Wear my hair tied back with a silk scarf in a pony or a small bun with it wrapped around it. The warmer it gets, the less I want to blow dry. (Below with my new Rails top and a scarf.)
Add to my garden tomatoes (tips below), with herbs like basil and mint in patio pots.
Switch my bag out to a woven one. I finally ordered this that was on my list.
Buy a summer lipstick shade!
Start making sun tea every few days on the patio. (I love this Sport Tea Contessa got me hooked on.)
Commit to ice tea and a book in the yard at least a few times a week.
Plan to host at least one or two easy summer dinners.
After dinner walks or tennis and ice cream or gelato for dessert at least once a week!
Do you have any Summer musts? I look forward to summer like a kid and remember to make time to savor the little things that make it special. We can make it feel like vacation, even if we are home!
Tips for getting a tomato garden in..
To me nothing says summer like home grown tomatoes from the garden. Just the smell is enough to transport me. If you have never grown your own, give it a try. Even if you just have a container on the porch, you will enjoy summer much more with caprese or breakfast toast with your own bounty…
Dad and I got the tomato garden in about three weeks ago. My dad is a big gardener and he starts his own seeds from the heirlooms he grows the previous years. If he buys tomato plants, he is very picky. We only do organic gardening and once you get your plants in, it’s pretty easy going from there. Tomatoes are so easy.. and you will be eating them until October in California !
A few tips from my dad Ray…
- Start with amending your beds and adding some compost and turn the dirt over.
- Choose organic plants and give them space – like 2-3 feet to grow between plants and choose a place with at least 6 hours of sun a day.
- Remove the lower stems and leaves up to about 5 inches and plant them up to about 4-6 inches deep.
- Tamp down soil and create a little ‘moat’ around each plant to retain the water.
- Water deeply the first day or two.. After that only water when the plants look wilted. Morning water at the base, not sprayed on leaves is best.
- Stake the plants to keep them upright. After August you can dry farm them and stop watering. You will get some of the best tasting tomatoes that way at the end of the harvest.
On My Radar…
I bought a Jenni Kayne slipdress on Annie’s recommendations for a weekend in NYC and I love it so much I want another. I’m trying to choose between this Rio slip dress in bronze or charcoal or the chic striped versions in camel (above) or blue. . I love them under a blazer or small jacket or with a sweater tied over.
This tiered serving piece is something I spied at my local Pottery Barn. It has so many styling possibilities- for a kitchen counter or island, or kitchen table with a plant and also cute outside for alfresco entertaining with napkins, utinsels and such! This has such a summer feel. (A few people asked about the glasses on the photo and they are here.
We women have been raised to be pleasers, and to behave, and to feel guilty about the things we do for ourselves. I’m so over it… This book looks like a great read and inspiring and already has some terrific feedback. I’ll report back.
I just bought this little woven stool on Amazon for my bedroom makeover. I think it looks like a pricier brand… I was thinking under a console, or in the bath or even in my closet..or a corner!
A charming California home in House Beautiful
I loved how this house was left largely as it was, including the 1920’s built-in curtain rods and cool Moorish shapes of doors and fireplaces. I love the small prints mixed with soft palette in this thoughtful refresh. The interior design is by California designer Matthew D’Orisio and photos by Karyn Millet.
More about this charming Montecito home here or in the summer edition of House Beautiful…I especially love this banquette!
Finally getting to my bedroom..
The soft palette above with pretty prints is inspiring me in fixing up my bedroom…
It’s been nearly four years since our remodel and I finally chose a new bed -and it’s coming soon! It’s from Bernhardt. It’s got my California casual vibe I love. It’s quite popular and well rated on several sites, but bought it on Wayfair as I am a ‘professional’ ( is that possible?), so I get free shipping and the price was the best..
It has a slipcovered look… but isn’t. I know it looks a little plain, but it lets me change things up..
Beds can be very pricey now. This one isn’t cheap either, but seemed reasonable for a Cal King and will give me more to spend on a pretty rug, side tables and lights, and hopefully wallpaper-which is so true and really the fun part.
I would so appreciate recommendations for local wallpaper people. I know what I want, but wondering do I do my whole bedroom, or just the one wall?
Anyone have thoughts on that? I am very much a white wall person, but ready to make some subtle changes. Next week I’ll share my inspiration board for the space.. I ran out of time to finish it this week..
And Just Like That Season 2 Coming this month..
Another good thing about June… A fun escape to stream. I love these ladies and I hear there may be a Samantha Jones appearance. I’m glad to hear Aiden is back. I always like him..
If you missed last week’s post I chatted about Carmel in bloom, Bernardus Lodge in Carmel Valley, my Rails capsule wardrobe, a salad for Memorial Day gatherings, and more.
Juliet shared some darling ideas for a couples baby shower she just hosted here.
Mary Ann and Annie shared cute linen pieces and shared options in high/ low price points.
Coming Tuesday, Cindy and I will be sharing our summer sandal picks for June’s Signature Style, so make sure you are subscribed if you don’t want to miss it!
Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely weekend.
Kim
Please visit my pals Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs..
MAKE MINE A SPRITZER
PINECONES AND ACORNS
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Good morning Kim,
How nice to have Griffin home even if only for a little while. Hopefully between work and school he will be back this summer.
You June list sounds perfect, especially the lounging and reading part. Summer is so short you deserve to soak it up with a glass of tea and a book or hosting friends and family for a dinner in your beautiful back yard. I hope you take the time to pamper yourself more this summer Kim.
Your dads tomato tips are so good, I printed them out. This year I only have one plant and it has one tomato on it. I am a novice at this and will have to do more research for next year. I think I may be watering it too much, that is my MO, I always think everything lives better with more water.
That house is so quaint! I love the chintz sofa, the white washed beams and the ample reading lights!
Your bedroom is going to be beautiful. The bed is understated, comfortable and will add softness to the room. The little rattan bench will be perfect with it. I cannot wait to see your mood board! You have a beautiful style Kim and hearing and watching your vision come to life is going to be a treat.
I have ordered the book, thank you for the tip. You are so right about women….but that is a discussion that could take up the entire day.
Have a wonderful weekend Kim, enjoy yourself!
Hi Elizabeth! I know time with the kids goes too fast.Summer too. Like you said, I am going to try and enjoy it more.
Let me know about the tomato tips- if they are helpful. I know it goes against people’s thoughts on gardening on watering less, but if you do this it will make a difference..They don’t like a lot of water. That said, you guys have a totally different climate, so maybe it’s different there. Good luck. It’s great you already have a tomato ! I only have a blossom as it’s been cool here.
I know getting that book today! We need a chat about women with everyone. Happy weekend! xo
Kim
This post was filled with wonderful things. I love your new bed. My personal opinion about the wallpaper do one wall so you won’t tire of it, but I am a white wall person as well. That Montecito home is wonderful. I love the ceilings. It reminds me of our former home. I do miss those ceilings! Looking forward to our sandal posT!
Thanks Cindy! Very true about getting tired.. and it’s easy to remove. Ye the Montecito home made me think of your place! So rare to see those pretty ceilings. I am excited about the sandals too. xo
Cindy’s the pro so I’d heed her advice to only paper the wall behind the bed. Wallpaper can be VERY expensive, especially if you have to pay to have someone hang it but I often say my husband and I have our doctorates in wallpaper hanging.😊 Can’t wait to see your bedroom makeover.
Thanks Barb! I know I had my husband do the office wall and he did a great job! That said, he’s not keen on doing it again. Also that was peel-and stick which is pretty forgiving and removable..
Thank you I am excited to see what I can do to make it pretty and cozy.
Good Morning!
One wall more IMPACT!
Your garden tips sound very Spot on!
Dad knows what he is doing!
I just made that Ice Tea yesterday!
Glad you like it!
Xoxo
Okay vote for one wall..I can see how it has impact. Elizabeth is Giampiero growing tomatoes with the basil?
I love that ice tea! Thank you- and it’s healthy too, no caffeine. xo
I’m going to disagree with everyone and say full wallpaper not just one wall. I think the “statement wall” look is so dated! I think it looks so much more classic and settled if you do the entire room. Think older houses or English country homes. They really go for it, you don’t see wallpaper on just one wall
Heather, That is what I’ve been seeing lately- whole room enveloped in a wallpaper.. Almost like a cocoon. I can see doing it in the bedroom. This is one space I can see it in.. I don’t think I’d be changing it out, but I can see why people worry. It would be saer and easy to do just a wall, but then it can have a mural vibe.
Hi Kim!
Love your June list! Tell la Contessa I also made her tea and it’s good. Need something cold for these hot, hot Texas days besides Cokes and Big Red! Anyway, glad you got to spend time with your son and your dad. I think I will try growing tomatoes too…
Also, in love with those thick drinking glasses; do you know what brand? Take care and enjoy the summer…Lamar from Texas
Hi Lamar! I will pass this on to Contessa.. Agree and you can drink a lot of this stuff and know it isn’t bad for you on hot days!
Try growing the tomatoes.. and having heat helps!
Do you mean the glasses on the tiered tray?
I looked them up and these are here at PB:
https://rstyle.me/+IEfzW3NUg47m6hEhfMZrFA
Thanks for the note Lamar! So nice to hear from you and enjoy summer! xo
Happy Saturday Kim! Your dad’s tips are brilliant, and I want some tomatoes! I miss my dad, and his great gardening tips. Regarding the wallpaper, I think it depends on what paper design you use. Cindy is the expert so you may want to take her advice. That being said, I had my daughter’s bedroom papered on all four walls years ago, and I still love it. Her room is more of an English cottage look. If you read any of the British magazines, they love that look. Can’t wait to see the reveal when it’s completed. xo
Karen, Thanks I know I am grateful to have my dad. Thinking of you..
I agree love that cottage look! I bet that was lovely in her bedroom..I will ask Cindy her thoughts on wallpaper.
Thank you! xo
That book does look intriguing, I was certainly raised to be good! Looking forward to your report! Just was visiting my daughter who lives in the Bay Area. I just love the Stanford mall Rails store…I have been there twice, and both of us found some things. I learned about it from your posts, so thanks !
Hello Kim, can not wait to see your bedroom refresh. Love your style. I’m for all walls with wallpaper.
Hi Rita! Thank you for the sweet note!
Kim!
First, thanks for 2 mentions! The slip dress abs linen! That’s so sweet!
We are also watching the French Open whenever possible!
Your dads tomatoes— that’s so wonderful that he plants using the seeds from his heirloom tomatoes! Does he start by growing them inside and then planting outside? That makes the idea of buying tomato plants so boring, doesn’t it!?
Love that house you shared! Beautiful!
Xx
Hi Annie! Loved the dress you recommended so much.
I know I love that summer kicks off with the French Open, then Wimbledon in the middle and The US Open to close it out! Somehow, having tennis on is relaxing and quiet unlike other sports..
As far as the tomatoes, yes he starts the seeds on a heating pad in his garage in early spring.. I am lucky he does this and he has so many plants he gives them away to the others at his garden place her volunteers at. Wish you were nearby. I could share some with you.
xo
Hi Kim,
So nice you had your son Griffin at home. I imagine the time you had together went by way too fast. Great he is working this summer.
I love the new bed you have decided on. A huge decision. It will be so exciting to get it all set up.
You asked about the wallpaper. I’m not the expert in interior design. I think the safe way is paint, however wallpaper depending on the design and color could be pretty if the overall look is tranquil and peaceful. I’m thinking that paint is the safest way to go. I know wallpaper
can be very beautiful. You have excellent taste, you will know after sleeping on it. What does Max think?
It was great to see Ray playing in the soil and planting the tomatoes in your raised garden patch. He knows what he’s doing. How sweet that your dad is present to help you. What a beautiful gift he gives you.
Have a beautiful week.
Hi Katherine! I know the time with him flew by. I hear you about the wallpaper.. I did think of paint too! Wallpaper would have to be not too busy and soft.. I have a few ideas and I will share. Max doesn’t care and sometimes I wish he did a little. LOL!
I know I am really so blessed to have my dad in my life and near me!
Hope you have a lovely week too!
I wrote about that Montecito home too (great minds). I just love all the fabrics…and architecture.
You and I have similar tastes. I went with an off-white upholstered bed too and a wicker bench. That is a darling stool that you found…we need something in our guest room for people to put their shoes on.
I’m very excited about your sandal post as I’m sure I will want everything.
Mary Ann, Isn’t that funny we both choose to share that house? I just loved how they made it fresh and feminine and also coastal modern! I know that little bench looks cute, so I hope it works. Mine should be arriving. I like the combination of the off white upholstered bed and woven pieces in the bedroom too. xo
Hi Kim,
Your dad is absolutely adorable. I can’t wait to see your bedroom pieces and I’m so interested in the wall paper you’ve chosen! Ooh, the All Saints purse is such a great choice. I went back to Tommy Bahama in Newport and bought the white linen jacket. Now I have that and the khaki color. Love them!
Aw thanks so much Karen! I am so lucky to have him nearby. He inspires me with all he does to stay active.
I love that jacket and am thinking of getting a white or navy one too. I feel like it’s just so comfy and flattering for summer. so glad you like them too!
Hello, I always look forward to your posts! I’ve had my eye on the All Saints tote too – which color did you choose? I see it comes in several prints, and a solid tan. Wonderful tips on the tomato plants. And I’m for wallpapering all the walls, considering if you did just one wall in your office. Please send us updates on what you decide! Have a great week!
Hi Ann! Thank you so much.
I had a hard time choosing which bag and finally ordered the two-tone one here:
https://rstyle.me/+avLuPqeVLRjbP9AZySNqUg
I’m waiting for it to arrive.. I also liked the checked pattern and the solid. I think you can’t go wrong we with any of them..as it’s such a cute bag. I will report back on it!
I have been leaning towards all the walls. I did do the one wall in the office- good reminder. I really want that cocoon feeling in the bedroom.
Thanks hope you have a great week too.
Good morning, Kim! So sorry to be late getting here. It was a whirlwind weekend. Hope you had a great weekend and some ice tea and reading time. So sorry about your allergies … that’s got to be awful. Especially when the weather is finally getting nicer. We got our tomatoes in two weeks ago and I’m going to follow all your dad’s tips. Love your choice of new bed and can’t wait to see it once it’s arrived … hopefully it won’t be too long. I need to make a summer list because if it’s anything like this year it will come and go fast. Very excited for the Just Like that Second season. Can’t believe it when I heard about Samantha. And, of course, Adian. Going back to read from the start … so much good stuff packed in here and I don’t want to miss anything! xo
Hi Kim! Love your June list! All such fun ideas. The house you shared is exquisite! Love the colors and all the pretty patterns! I never watched the first season of the new Sex and the City. I should add it to my list! Can’t wait to see the end result of your bedroom redo!
Hi Kim, I must bookmark this post for your dad’s tomato tips – we decided not to plant this year (we just do containers on the deck) because we are going away twice this summer. I had no idea that you could/should leave them ‘dry’ after August!
I love the look of the woven bag you bought, really chic!