On this post- helping Maui, the original supermodels back in September Vogue, a cute long shirtdress, a book to check out, and my secret food market in Aptos that has great housewares too.
How’s your week been? We’ve had some lovely weather, and got to the beach one day.. One of my kids – Griffin went on three day backpack trip in the Sawtooth Wilderness in idaho. My other Jackson was on a long road trip to Arizona to take his girlfriend back to med school. I was worried a bit this week, but everyone made it back okay.
I am just shocked and saddened for the people of Maui. I was watching the news and it’s unbelievable how the historic downtown of Lahaina and the neighborhoods were just gone so fast. It was heartbreaking and at the end of this post, I’ll share some different ways we can give a little and help out.
Table Throws and Foggy Beach Walks..
To escape the heat Max and I did a day trip to our favorite beach called Sumner, in Aptos. It was a foggy morning, but it burned off by noon…I love the hike on the trail up to Seascape from the beach. It feels like a small workout, but not too much.. and then I can get a sandwich at my favorite Seascape Foods at the Shops.
The shop is a little gem with has the best things like these hanging planters, pretty baskets, and I always find beautiful throws and other charming housewares. The food selections are excellent and they have a bakery and a deli. A great place to get food for a beach day.
I went home with a lovely blue and creme throw.. and also got my brie and apple sandwich for a beach picnic!
I am using it on the dining table with a big basket filled air plants and a driftwood stick.. Trying for a sort of summer vignette, I added one of my seashells.. I need to attempt ironing it again. I’ll probably use this on the arm of the couch or folded over the chair for some color.. It could also be a cute on a small round table. Do you do this with textiles and throws? I am always on the hunt for cool ones.
Looking for place to grab a coffee on the way back we found this excellent spot called Loft Coffee. It’s near Cabrillo College and they an airy lofted building and lots of outdoor spots. I had their Fog drink which was Earl Grey latte made with macadamia milk- so good. The people working there are also wonderful. Check it out if you are by the beach.
On My Radar…
I’ve been enjoying reading Ready For Absolutely Nothing by original What Not To Wear’s Susannah Constantine. It’s about her posh upbringing among royals that was dysfunctional yet wild with totally absent parents. There is some on her parent’s personal struggles and also some naughty parts, but some of it is laugh out loud funny and a good escape right now. I always loved her and Trinny’s What Not to Wear and miss it.
This blue stripe shirt dress is a classic and I love the stripe. We can wear it now and in fall.. Can I vent a little? I hate the way Anthro styles things. This could be so cute with chic flats or loafers or sneakers. They try and make things look edgy, but the problem is you can’t really see the item well- or how to really wear…definitely not with rubber boots! Another option is like a duster jacket over leggings and a tank.
I have a class reunion coming up in a few weeks and started thinking what would be comfy and not too fancy for a sort of casual evening gathering. I love this sundress, and the black eyelet material is lovely. With a cute pair of black sandals it might be just the thing.
I have had my eye on this Wave Duvet Cover for a while and it’s on markdown on Serena & Lily’s Warehouse Sale and I and thinking of getting it before it’s gone.. The shams are also darling and would be cute with any bedding!
September Vogue & Return of the Supers
I let my subscription to American Vogue lapse a while ago. It just wasn’t inspiring me to be honest. I am excited to see the OG models- Christy, Naomi, Linda, and Cindy are back recreating a cover by Peter Lindbergh they did in 1990. Sadly Tatiana Patitz who was at top in the original, passed away in January. I adore these girls as they are all my age or near it and I loved the Vogue of the 80’s and 90’s.
I will actually buy this September issue and see if it excites me…There is also an Apple TV special about the models coming out in September.. Vogue released this cute clip of them interviewing each other.
Linda was always my favorite. I think they worked a lot harder than models do now, but they were also more recognizable. Things have changed in some ways for the better. Naomi said the biggest change is now things are more inclusive and we see models of all ethnicities, shapes, and ages, which was really missing back then. Now I probably could not tell you the name of any top model.
It’s fun to hear about how they worked..
Home of the Week
Carmel real estate is always a treasure trove and this week I had to share three that are so good..
This Carmel cottage is just a few blocks off the downtown and though only 600 square feet, they did an impressive job using the space and making it feel larger than it is, and oh so charming.. though it is over a million dollars. I’m crazy about the kitchen.
If you’ve got 14 million to kick around this place has the best view in Carmel on the beach..
Lastly, this old school charmer that is right near Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch Inn and looks a lot like it.
Helping Maui
Maui holds a special place in the heart of my family and many in the West Coast who go there often for holiday. If you can help there are a lot of good people on the ground who can use your donation, even if it’s small.. World Central Kitchen is feeding people meals already and you can donate here to help them.
There are also other organizations like Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund part of Global Giving, which has a 4 star Charity Navigator rating and says, ‘All donations to this fund will support wildfire relief and recovery efforts in Hawaii. Initially, the fund helps first responders meet survivors’ immediate needs and then will support longer-term recovery efforts run by local, vetted organizations in impacted areas, particularly those working with low-income, historically underserved communities.’
There is also a page to take you to Maui Mutual Aid which helps the disabled and disadvantaged, and also gives to the Maui United Way, and Maui Strong Fund.. all helping and you can specify which area you want your donation to go.
This page on KITV Hawaii may have the most comprehensive list of places to give to and how you can donate your Hawaiian Air miles to people stranded that live there, how to help college kids and much more.
UPDATE: I am adding the Maui Food Bank here, as this is apparently a big need and many people are not only homeless, but without the jobs they held in Lahaina. You can give any amount here.
If you missed it, Cindy and I did Signature Style for August on Tuesday and it was all about linen pieces that can carry you into fall and how to wear them. My post here and Cindy’s here.
Last week’s post was on rompers and easy summer looks, how to live a Blue Zone lifestyle, and starting a reset before fall.
Thank you for being here and have a lovely weekend,
Kim
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Thank you for posting all the links to help those affected by this tragedy. You are the only one that I have read that has these links.
Thank Rita I was just trying any way I can help. It breaks my heart and I think it’s even harder with them being an island- to get what they need easily. So many have lost absolutely everything they had. I don’t know what Maui will do to help them all in such a small space. People don’t realize the island is not that large.
Good morning Kim,
Happy to hear that the boys made it safe to their destinations. I am a worrier too and it makes me nervous when my loved ones travel.
It is heartbreaking to see Maui. So many lives lost and many still missing. Lahaina gone. Thank you for sharing the links for organizations to donate, several are new to me.
A day at the beach is always fun and relaxing. Even better if you get to shop before you go home. Your new table square looks beautiful and I love the air plant!
Vogue lost me long ago. I am not sure why but I just like the magazine less and less. Although I do read some of the article on line here and there. As for the Super Models, they were all amazing. I remember the days when these ladies were on every cover. Now the magazine covers are filled with celebrities. Nothing wrong with that, but I preferred the old days. This may be controversial but I wonder what the magazine would be like without Anna Wintour, maybe it’s time for a change. Honestly, she seems like a “mean girl” the way she is portrayed and I don’t like it.
As for the houses! The 600 sq ft house is beautiful! You are so right, great use of space. Heavy price tag. But should we win the lottery maybe.
Looking at real estate is always fun and you pick some beauties!
Have a wonderful weekend Kim. I hope that you are still making time to relax, read and enjoy some down time.
xo Elizabeth
Elizabeth,
Totally agree about Anna W – she doesn’t seem nice…and think Vogue needs a reset. I also agree the celebrities on the cover do not interest me. I’m really there for the fashion.. I love house browsing! So far no lottery winnings, but I am ready!
Hope you’re enjoying your weekend too. xo
Thanks for all of your stories, this morning. I’m so glad you are sharing about ways to help Maui. My heart is half in CA and half in HI. I have so many memories from going to the islands for 60 years and owning a house in Kona. Funny story….one night in Longhi’s resto in Lahaina, a man offered to buy my dress! I was young and cute and had on a really fun dress that I guess he wanted for his woman. Needless to say, I didn’t oblige! I worry about the huge banyan tree and Pioneer Inn. My heart has been heavy this week.
How did we get to almost the middle of August?? Keep enjoying the rest of summer!
I have read that the magnificent Banyan was scorched but will survive, a bright spot amongst all the devastation.
I heard that too. Trees can be resilient. I hope it will come back!
Thanks Wren! I know you are a Hawaiian girl. Aw love that story about the dress.. I am hoping the tree can survive.
I know hard to believe this summer flew by.. I sort am looking forward to fall. xo
Great post! I just wanted to add that a friend who lost everything in Lahaina says that donations to the Maui Food Bank would be greatly appreciated. This charity gets five stars and the donations go directly to those that need it. Many on the island are affected. Power outages have caused a lot of food to go bad. Many who worked in Lahaina but don’t live there have lost jobs.
Mahalo
Leslie thank you I am going to update that above and link to it. I didn’t even think about all the jobs lost. That is tragic and we haven’t even heard about that. I can’t imagine how hard that’s going to be.
I’m thinking about the people in Maui too. The loss of life especially is so tragic, and shocking. Anything we can contribute will be very much needed, and appreciated. I know how much generosity helped my own community.
I live in Louisville Colorado. On December 30, 2021, a wild fire raced through my community. Two people lost their lives, 1100 homes were destroyed, and thousands more were damaged by wind and smoke.
More than 18 months later, there are many homes being built, but there are also many empty lots for sale. Most homeowners found that they were drastically underinsured.
I suggest that everyone consider wether they live in a “Wildland Urban Interface”. This is from the FEMA website:
“The WUI is the zone of transition between unoccupied land and human development. It is the line, area or zone where structures and other human development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels.”
In the case of Louisville CO, and our neighbor, Superior CO, it was a grassland fire, not a forest fire.
If you do, you too are at risk. Make sure your insurance coverage reflects the real cost of replacing your home, and belongings. Check with your insurance company to see how long they will pay your living expenses while you rebuild. No one in our community was able to build within the typical one year time frame. For many it will be 2+ years.
Find out how to catalogue your possessions for insurance purposes. Many who were already devastated had to document everything in order to recoup replacement expenses. It meant tens of thousand of dollars difference to people, who were already underinsured.
Another tragedy that hurts my heart, is that it’s estimated that 1,000 pets were killed in the fire. We weren’t home when the fire raced toward our house, and we weren’t allowed back in, since there were evacuation orders. My sister, and brother in law ended up parking across the golf course from my house in the middle of the night, breaking in, and rescuing my cat. My house didn’t burn, but the fire came within 4 houses of mine.
Lisa thank you so much for all this..This is very needed.. I still remember this happening to your community and how fast it happened. I’m so glad you’re okay and your cat was rescued. The pets are what matters. That breaks my heart. You bring up so many things we all need to know- and may not. Also climate is changing and insurance companies are refusing to cover people…
I will share this on my stories if it’s okay with you. This may be helpful to others in a similar area.
I think so many in Maui will struggle as it’s an island. How hard it will be to get all the materials needed there to rebuild and also house all those people displaced!
Thank you Kim,
Please do share anything that you think is helpful.
Thanks Lisa. I will share on my Instagram story.
Hi Kim, I thought of you and your family when I first heard of the Maui fires, I know that you go to Hawaii quite often. We have donated to a local charity.
I love Susannah Constantine! She has a great podcast called My Wardrobe Malfunction and one of the episodes is with Lady Anne Glenconner, who was one of the late Queen’s attendants at her coronation, and who has also written a couple of interesting books about her own life. Lady Anne was a great friend of Princess Margaret, and Susannah used to go out with Princess Margaret’s son!
Aw Patricia it’s so sad! That’s so nice of you to give. I forgot that Susannah had a podcast! I will look for It ! I’d love to hear the Lady Anne one! I know what a life she has lived.. I remember her dating Margaret’s son. Some interesting tidbits about her!
Thank you for posting the links for Maui! As a Californian, we went there often. My heart is broken for the people of Lahaina. They lost everything!
Happy to hear your son’s trip went well! I still worry when my son is traveling and he’s in his 40’s! He either calls or texts me when he gets home.
I’m not too far from Carmel. It’s homes are exquisite. Love the small cottage, great use of space! Thank you for your excellent post today.
Rhonda I think we Californians have deep connection to Maui. I know I try not to worry.. It’s a mom thing right?? You live near Carmel? You must love it. It’s so pretty! I can never get enough of the houses!
Aw thank you.. Have a good weekend!
Hi Kim,
Thank you for the post. I recommend Maui Food Bank too. Our good friends invited us one year to Maui for a week during my daughter’s high school as the two girls were besties, and l have many lovely memories of both families going to Lahaina for supper and ice cream,walking around on a balmy summer night. It is just so devastating what has happened.Like many my heart is heavy right now.
To change the mood while all this is going on,I’ve been watching on Max Bobby’s Triple Threat a fun cooking show highly recommend.
Take care Kim 🙂
Francesca what lovely memories ! I can understand how Lahaina holds a special place in your heart. I will check out Max Bobby! Sounds fun.. I need that. xo
Good morning, Kim! So envious of your beach getaway … looks like heaven. Love that striped dress too … and agree about Anthro styling! I’m still a loyal subscriber to American Vogue but every year I consider letting it lapse. Waiting for the September issue to land in my mailbox and excited to see the OG’s back where they belong. The heyday of the Supermodel was, well … super. And I miss those days. I don’t think I could name a current supermodel either. Maybe Kendall Jenner, but is she really? I don’t know. Very excited for this issue … is it too early to start stalking the mailbox. Thanks for the heads up about Susannah’s book. I’ve wondered where she is and what she’s doing now. Huge fan of the original What Not to Wear with Trinny … so good. Wish they’d bring it back. It’s hard to fully grasp the tragedy in Maui. Devastating. I hope the build back efforts are swift … but for too many there will be no return to life as they once new it. Thanks for the links. Wishing you a lovely weekend. xo
The Maui fires hit home with me as well. We lived on Oahu (and then Maui) for months while my husband worked and we waited to sell our property (our home was burned to the ground in the 2017 Santa Rosa Tubb’s Fire) and recoup our money from the insurance company. Maui is a special island on this earth and we love it. We just made a donation to the World Central Kitchen and will be donating more to Red Cross and/or Maui Strong (Hawai’i Community Foundation). West Maui is without services, food and water. My heart breaks for them.
Sally I am so sorry about your home being lost. I cannot imagine how that was and you must feel some trauma seeing this sort of thing again. Wonderful you were able to be in the islands while you were waiting and got to know them well I bet.
I know I can’t believe they are without water and everything. Thank you for caring. xo
Hi Kim,
The news from Maui is just so sad. Devastating. I can’t imagine, although we came close we were so lucky 3 years ago. 900 homes lost and as of today only a handful have been rebuilt. Our insurance cost doubled but I’m thankful we still have coverage. I will definitely be donating and appreciate you posting the links.
My girlfriend lived right near Sumner beach and we’ve walked it often.I like going to Seascape Resort too, for a drink and to sit on the patio and enjoy the view from above. We’ve had many New Year’s brunches there, too. Something about being at the ocean in the winter that I love . Also I agree, the little grocery store has the best food and fun merchandise.
I’ remember those super models! They were a part of our lives growing up. Now, even with all the social media etc. I have no idea what is going on!
I totally relate to the worrying. Maia leaves for San Diego on Monday and I will not rest until I get a call from her when she gets there safely. I hate this part of being a mom!Glad your boys are safe.
Hello to you, enjoy the weekend.
Xo Heidi
Heidi I remember how traumatic it was for you guys and how close the fires came to your house. You are good to help! I see now thatch has even been raised. How nice she lived near Sumner! New Year’s Brunch sounds fun.. actually anything there.
I hope Maia has a safe trip and a good time… I know it’s hard when your kids are on the road! xo
Hi Kim! Loved watching the video with the OG super models. Funny you should say that about Anthro styling . I rented an Anthro long shirt dress through Nuuly, and they had it styled open to the navel with shorts. NOT how I have been wearing it, haha! Love your new throw, and I say go for the Serena and Lily sheets! I have never been to Hawaii, but it is hard to believe how a whole town could be obliterated. What a summer this has been all over the place. Have a good week!
Molly was kind of fun to hear them talk about what they once had to do modeling.. LOl that is funny this same shirtdress, the top pic shows a bra (not a sports one) and shorts with it totally open.. I don’t think most are wearing it that way. Free People is worse. Getting a picture off the actual garment is impossible.. They have everything styled to be skanky and not cute. xo
Hi Kim,
A comment first to get the heartbreak communicated back yo you. Hawaii/Maui and the other islands have always held a special place in all of our hearts. It’s so beautiful, peaceful, and laid back. To see the pictures on the news and interviews are heart wrenching. This type of devastation is completely unimaginable. The loss of life, the injured and all the people that lost everything brings me so much sadness. Kim, thank you so very much for mentioning all the organizations where we can support. We have not decided which one yet, but hopefully Sunday we will make a decision. All the people, places of business, jobs lost all are in my prayers,
They need so much help.
Onto a much brighter note. I enjoyed seeing the steps at Summer beach and the steps to the beach. It feels so magical Ca. . I think the last time
I visited Aptos was in the seventies. I recall it being a wonderful arty type of town.
To finish off the day with a special treat of a fancy coffee.
I so get it being concerned with your guys and their safety. Once they have returned you can again sleep at night. I’m that way with all those I care about and love. It’s nice that you care deeply.
Katherine the islands really do hold a special place in our hearts…I think West Coast people have so many connections there..That is so good of you to give. I know every bit is truly needed.
Aptos is really a cool spot!!
I know I hate being a worrier!
Hope you have a good week. xo
Great post Kim! I am so so sad about the horrific scenes and news from Maui. We were just there in January. Love your scenes from the beach and love you too. Looking forward to someday soon when day when I can blog again!
Gray, It’s just heartbreaking and so many of us here on the west coast know people there and have family..
Aw missing your blog. I know how tough you have had it lately. Take care. We will all still be here when you get back to the blog. xo
I worked and lived in Lahaina in 1979. I worked at the pioneer Inn and I just can’t believe the devestation. Southwest Airlines is offering Maui residents and tourists $19 fares and allowing people to bring their pets for only $1.00. They are also offering super low fares back to the mainland. Several of us flight attendants donated to a huge clothing drive and bought tons of shoes and toiletry items. Southwest flew all the boxes over ( out of SJC) and our Maui flight attendants made sure they got distributed to families in need. It’s amazing all the people that are pulling for Maui.
Wow that is so wonderful you all did that. Martha that should be on the news! I didn’t know you lived there and I am sure it really hurts even more seeing what was destroyed in such a short time. I cried tonight listening to people still looking for family and those who spent hours in the ocean trying to get away from the flames.. Southwest is a great company and so good of them to do that. You are too. Thank you Martha. xo
Agree with all the posts here, thank you so much for the links to help Maui!
My grandparents immigrated to the US from Spain and the ship docked in Lahaina, more than 100 years ago. They stayed there for 10 years, had a few kids and then came to the Bay Area and had some more.
My husband and I got engaged in Lahaina. We’ve been to Maui many times since then.
The silver lining is that the natives, locals and visitors will rebuild, and hopefully we will let the native population lead in this endeavor. (See this link from Naomi Klein, referencing “The Shock Doctrine”, excellent book)
WCK is my go-to donation site as food and shelter are needed first after every disaster. Check with your employees to see if you can get a match, my company matches $3-for-$1 which is fantastic.
Thank you for all you do xoxo
Oops, here’s the link: https://www.newsweek.com/naomi-klein-how-not-exploit-disasters-70821
Thank you Valetta! Will read this.
Thanks so much Valetta for all this. Wow Lahaina must have a very special place in your heart. I am so sorry.
I have been reading a lot about the rebuilding and one hopes that people will not take advantage and buy these properties from under those who held them at a cheap rate and take advantage. Many have been owned by naive families.
I should have mentioned for people to see if their company matches. My husband’s does and we always give there. $3 for every $1 is amazing. World Central Kitchen is a great charity always on the ground it seems right away where they are needed most.
Thank you ! xo