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Signature Style-Five Hats to Love

July 6, 2021 By kimwheeler 18 Comments

Today I’m joining up with my Signature Style compadres Cindy Hattersley and Sarah London for some chat about hats! Summer is here and this is the opportunity to add a hat to two to the repertoire and why not? Hats not only are an excellent way to save your skin, they give you instant style cred and let you stand out in a good way..

You may be one of those people who aren’t hat people. My own mother wasn’t a hat fan. She said she didn’t have a good face for hats. I don’t believe that is possible. The truth was she felt a little shy in them I think. There’s a hat for everyone and you just have to find what feels good on you. If you get used to popping one on as you leave the house, after a while you won’t even give it a second thought. I love having them by the front door- and they make cute decor too.

Hats have always held bit of romance for me. Even as a very young girl I’ve been in love with them. One of the first memories I have of someone with a hat style I wanted to emulate was Jane March in the film, The Lover. It’s a semi-autobiographical story by Marguerite Dumas about a young French expat in 1920’s in Colonial Vietnam. I recently rewatched it and honestly had forgotten how racy it was. (Well the title, no duh.) I just remember obsessing on the style of the young woman and how she wore a man’s hat as her signature at a time when women did not do that.

Jane March left in The Lover and a photo of myself around the same era trying to emulate the Jane March look, but backpacking..I was almost not going to share this, as I’m clearly pretty goofy and nothing like Jane..

Something about wearing a man’s hat is great too. They are often more roomy, made tougher and cost less, so don’t bypass them. Even better, see if you can borrow one from the men in your household, if you are so lucky to have a hat wearer in proximity.

Five Hats For Your Wardrobe

A wool felt hat will last forever and can be worn all year. My all-time favorite hat is a men’s felt hat that was bought in a hardware store in Wengen, Switzerland. I have worn this hat all over the world. A felt hat is great all year long and I wear mine in both summer and winter. Just last night, I wore it on the beach to watch fireworks.. It’s my camping hat and farmer’s market hat and for days I am exposed to more sun than usual or cold. I’ve worn it with a sundress as well as hiking gear. I particularly like it when walking in the woods to keep inadvertent things, (okay bugs) from dropping onto my hair. I keep it in my car most of the time so it’s always available. I think this hat looks cute on my husband too.

This hat by Brixton is a wool like mine, packable and comes in a pretty tan and a black. The tan looks very luxe and the black is chic and versatile..

And Madewell has this cute felt rancher hat ..

During summer I naturally gravitate to straw and woven hats and natural materials and it’s wonderful many more are online and in shops.

My latest is this straw hat I bought with my friends in Soquel. Below, Cindy Hattersley and I did a little hat shopping after lunch with friends Heidi and Mary Ann. I was trying on a Tula Garderner’s Hat from Wisteria Antiques and Garden Shop in Soquel, and Cindy has a lovely one too. Which is why you have to pop on over to her blog after this.

I’ve been wearing this ‘rancher’ hat in Tahoe this summer for biking and on the beach. I just think it’s a staple hat everyone could use. It has a little straighter feel and rises on the sides. Oh and someone called it the Bo Derek hat, so that sealed it for me. Could I just put the hat and magically be Bo?

Similar to my hat above is this Jesse Woven Rancher.

Anthropologie has this Braided Fedora

Also cute..this Lack of Color brand hat.. Love the shape, color and the leather cord. (You need this for biking and windy days.)

And then there is the Sage Hat by California company Wyeth, made with an adjustable interior sweatband so you can customize the fit and a cord. Did you know they are called stampede straps? I kind of love that and somehow it gives me visions of being like Jesse in Toy Story.

I also have worn a unisex Panama Hat by the lovely Montecristi Panama Hat Company in Napa for years. I have had three of these and adore them. If you can get to Napa, it is worth the trip to go to the fun shop and meet the lovely family that runs it. They are wonderful people who will help you fall in love with a hat that suits you. They are a very humble family, but they have big stars and celebs that always make a stop at their shop when in the Napa Valley.

If you can’t get to their shop Cuyana has one hand crafted in Ecuador for a good price.

These hats have gone all over with me, but they aren’t crushable so you need to do carry-on with them – aka wear on the plane!

I also love this man’s hat by Wallaroo and of course great price and so cool. I noticed a few women posted pics of themselves wearing it, so others are doing this too.

Can you just see this for with a sundress and sandals or even a white blazer and a skirt? Very Ralph Lauren to me!

Another great option is a woven Fedora Hat and it’s the other hat I bought this year. My black Banana Republic Fedora has been great and IS crushable. On the way to Hawaii recently it got loose on the TSA and was terribly smashed between two trays! My heart sank when it emerged from the X-ray machine, but came out unscathed. A great little hat! Also comes in a natural and 40% off currently, so about $34!

Lastly, a cool new hat that has come on my radar and intrigued me is a rollable hat from Anthropologie like these Woven Visor Hats. They look like a regular hat on, but are easy to throw on like visor, can accommodate a ballerina bun, as one reviewer said, and as they roll, super transportable. Your head does get some sun, but sometimes you want the air ventilation. I guess it depends on the hair and person. This comes in a black and a soft mauve too. Great idea to have rolled up in your purse and ready to go when you are unexpectedly caught out having lunch or anything in direct sun. I tried one at our local Anthropologie and they feel great and do look quite cute!

There are so many fun and chic hats out there. Don’t be afraid to start trying them and find what you like. They are wonderful for keeping your complexion less spotty here in California where we get so much more sun than we realize every day.

I’d love to hear what your thoughts are on hats. Are you a hat person or not?

Cindy Hattersley and Sarah London , my Signature Style pals both wear hats brilliantly and have so much style.. Please pop over to their blogs and see what their take on hats is. I’m sure you’ll be inspired by these ladies!

Thanks for stopping by!

Kim

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Remodeling – The Social Front Patio

May 20, 2021 By kimwheeler 14 Comments

If there’s one thing we took away from the past year, it was appreciation of home and our own spaces. Being forced to spend more time in our abodes than ever before, home has become a more happy spot than it once was for a lot of people. Many of those who were constantly ‘out’ or going places, found themselves with serious home time and as a result some took the opportunity to create something more cozy and appealing.

In our own little cul-de-sac in Northern California, that has meant using all the spaces of the home, and that includes our front yards as well. The previous ‘just for looks’ front yard has shifted to a space people want to be out in. It’s gives you an opportunity use a previously underutilized area, and also connect with neighbors in a socially distanced or closer way!

I’ve been meaning to write about this trend for a while since we decided to add a front patio to the home remodel in the late stages. I knew I wanted French Doors in the front, but they made no sense if there wasn’t a patio for them to open out onto. After looking at many homes in the Willow Glen section of San Jose, I decided I wanted a small patio and a Mediterranean type of low wall that could be used for seating as well. We figured we might as well use some of that front yard for actual enjoyment, instead of more plants. We removed the grass and added new native landscaping and the patio seemed to work well with that. We feel lucky to have put it in just before the pandemic.

This is few photos of the before and after of our front yard.. We lived here for ten years before remodeling. Taking out a huge Sequoia that was dying and also lifting the foundation, created an uneven look, so with the remodel it was an opportunity to rethink the whole space.

This was right after plants were put in..

And today the plants after almost 2 years..

Coincidentally, three of our neighbors also added front patios, two in the past year. Our neighbors Ben and Becca were the first. They have a great corner lot. Their rounded and slightly elevated patio/entry just sets off their house beautifully, which has also been updated with all their pretty landscaping.

Before and after..

Isn’t this lovely? They really use their patio and enjoy being out there, having a coffee or a glass of wine after dinner on just keeping watch on their three kids having fun on scooters and such on our street..I just love the pretty stone they used on the patio and their fireplace here.

Our neighbor Wen, who is studying design, besides working, created her own space too. Wen has school age kids who often did their class work outside during the pandemic. Previously, it was a small porch and lawn.

Before and after..

They have enjoyed the views of the mountains from the front and being outdoors the past year. It is a very spacious area now, and she still has plenty of yard.

Next door, my neighbors Ginger and Tao have two younger ones and spend evenings and weekends with their small tykes taking their first steps and learning how to ride a bike, while they garden, or chat with family. Their parents often come for extended visits and enjoy the sunshine out there too!

Before and after..

I like the modern furniture and clean vibe of their home. This space was previously part of the driveway!

One benefit of having a front patio is the ability to relax, and if you have kids you keep an eye out while children play. Another is grabbing a bit of sun or fresh air. For us, it’s our cooler months patio as the backyard is darker in winter, but the front porch is an enjoyable place to savor a book and a cup of tea to just warm up on a cold day.

What I love very much about these front spaces is the ability to connect more fully with your community. Thanks to the patio, we know our neighbors even better since this pandemic began. Every evening we were out in the yard- or on a stroll and there is always some nice chatting! We talk about plants or how big kids are getting. It’s just really nice having a space that connects us to them- and to see them in theirs.

The other benefit- using the property you own! How crazy is it that some of us sit in a small house, and have a spacious front yard that sits looking like country club and filled with fertilizers to keep it like a carpet, and is going unused? Why not use the space? If you can get rid of the grass, even better. My neighbors all kept some grass for their small ones to play. You can have both if you want to.

You don’t need a house to do this. Even just placing a chair or bistro set in the front of your patio, in a condo or apartment looks inviting and you’ll be tempted to take a break out there and get social. When I was last in Europe, this is a big thing, a ritual each evening I noticed. Rome was one place that people dragged chairs out to each doorstep and each night enjoyed a bit of conviviality with neighbors and passer bys. They say people who live in cultures where they socialize daily live the longest. Just love this article about Italians.

Here are other inspiring front spaces that have been transformed..

My talented friend Annie, creator of the blog, Most Lovely Things has always done inviting front porches and her new home in Connecticut is no exception. It’s a beautiful home just four houses from the beach, and Annie created a space to hang and also connect with the neighborhood. Annie says, ” People are always out on their porches and neighbors know each other and help each other. I feel like it builds community.” Annie lives on Long Island Sound and her front porch is a lounging space, but she has also used it for dining with friends on colder days. I love how Annie made this feel cozy and inviting.

Annie even set a table out here on a day there was a chance of rain last fall. It is always so much more fun eating outdoors…

Sometimes it’s easy as adding a chair to front to give your home more curb appeal- and a reminder to use the area! This Home of actress Minnie Driver’s in Elle Decor is made so inviting by these chairs…

This home on Houzz, Brandon Pass architect, has the roof extended with a pergola and a whole living area built.

This contemporary home in Orlando has a ready to socialize vibe..

This front patio below, is so simple, just slightly elevated and surrounded by plants and lawn from Newport Beach based, Black Band Design.

I also love this patio added to the update of a 1969 ranch home in Denver.

This Orange County home was updated and given a space with a simple roof extension.

When searching for front patio spaces, I found the inspiring account of the talented Kelly Vandenberg on Instagram and love her whole house! The front patio is especially lovely..I love how inviting this looks in an entry area.

I hope this has been helpful and a little inspiration if you are planning to remodel..or just use the front spaces of your home more!

Kim

P.S. landscape on my house by The Garden Group and design by Carla Olivet.

Here’s a few items for the front patio I love..

Summerland Lanterns, The Lorde Sconce, Mojave Indoor/Outdoor Pouf, Palm Pillow Cover, , Cayman Lanterns, The Seaview Rug , Capistrano Outdoor Mirror, Dip-Dyed Planter, Capri Striped Bistro Chair ,Faceted Outdoor Tumblers, Marrakesh Outdoor Dining Collection and Bennington Pillow Cover (on sale now)

Photos NorthernCalStyle, unless linked to another source.

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Fun Kitchen Styling Tips!

February 10, 2021 By kimwheeler 33 Comments

Today I am joining a talented group to share some ideas for styling your kitchen space. Most of us have had a LOT of time at home and the new year is a great time to change things up. Have you had the same things on the counter for the last month, years- or more? Well maybe it’s time for a lift…

My Top Tips for Styling the Kitchen..

Declutter. You need visual calm and that means less. Store oils, spices, etc out of sight if you can.
Choose 2-3 colors and repeat them in the accessories in this space.
If you’re going to have a lot of things- i.e plants, cookbooks- try to group them together.
Use unusual and pretty catchalls or baskets to bring a little style to utilitarian items.
Replace kitchen towels often, and try to stay in a color way or two.
Add a piece of art to the kitchen to bring a homey feel, less scullery.
A small counter lamp adds a warmth and an ambiance to the kitchen overhead lights just can’t.

First of all, do you have a lot of clutter? Things that you use daily, but you have them on the counter? Try putting some of them away for a while, for some visual calm. Yes I use my olive oils and salts daily, but they are in the cabinet. Less clutter means more zen and less to manage/dust too. If you need those within reach, maybe rearrange cabinets and drawers? The new year is a good time to clean each drawer out, throw away things that haven’t been used in the past few years, (egg slicer I’m looking at you,) and generally rethink the space usage in your kitchen. There are no musts, only possibilities. We get stuck in ruts. Break out and reconfigure the kitchen drawers. You can change!

Start with what inspires you and add it to the kitchen. Maybe it starts with something pretty you see you adore. I fell in love with this vase, brought it home then searched my cabinets and pulled out a cheese board with grey-blue tones, towels in the same color and a pitcher with blue to give the kitchen some cohesiveness. The vase gave me my starting point and got me excited to change things up.

Cookbooks are great and I have a lot, but I usually have just a few out I am currently into. They are good to give height to things with open shelving too. You can place a bowl on them like I did here with an easy air plant, or lemons or a clipping from your yard.

I have a big serving board that is hard to store, so my solution is to keep it on the island. It makes the plant and a bowl with some citrus have more impact and height. The ceramic bowl is a special gift from a dear friend. I think styling the center of an island is tricky. People tend to have large things in the center, but as we eat on here a lot, I like to have something that’s moveable.

I like plants for the natural element.This asparagus fern is what I have now with a pot from my local OSH store. Below I had a plant from a shop in Santa Cruz previously.

I have my utensils corralled in this container from Target. Many of these are olive wood spoons from trips in France and are dear to me. I think finding a unique crock is a way to show some flair in the kitchen. Last year I was using a large black lantern from Crate & Barrel. I have also used pots from the garden section, baskets, garden urns and silver pieces. Whatever holds what you’ve got and works with your decor. I have even seen small waste baskets that could work too. Get creative!

On the open shelving I have plates from the Joanna Gaines collection from Target in black and off white and a set of nested baskets I use frequently for serving bread, etc. The plant picture I think keeps the California feel.

I just added the faux plant to fill in space at the top left where nothing else would work. I am generally not a faux plant person, and intended to rip the plant out and just keep the pot, but it seems to look kind of cute here so I left it. Faux plants are great in those spots with little sun and are hard to reach.

My corner sink has a space for plants and they love the light here and extra splashes of water! I tried to keep them in white and light colored pots to unify the space and make it visually cleaner.

I’ve been using this basket for our paper towels since the day one accidentally fell in there and fit perfectly!

On the other perimeter counter I have a Serena & Lily tray with towels and lemons, a bust planter from Anthropologie and my lamp. I sometimes move this tray to the top of the stove.. It’s another space we don’t utilize and it can look cute with a tray and a vase of flowers even. Just remember not to use them on a warm stove!

UPDATE: I found a source for these cute towels that were a gift from Ireland. They are by Ulster Weavers and can be bought in the U.S. at British Importer, The Bee’s Knees . Ulster Weavers has a shop on Amazon, but currently the towels are not in stock, yet they have a matching tea cozy.

A small counter lamp adds warmth to the kitchen. When the cooking and cleanup are done, this light is on and the overheads are off. I can’t stand the surgery bright cap lights on, and they destroy any ambiance in the house in the evening too. They are great for tasks and that’s about it. In the early mornings it’s nice to have the warm light and in these dark afternoons as well.. Look for a one that can fit on the counter and find a lower warm wattage bulb to bring a cozy feel to your space. Lots of great small lamps here.

I have tried to generally stay in the same blue-grey and chartreuse type tones with the kitchen towels. I go with the Marie Kondo stacking method when I am motivated!

My two rugs are the hardworking Serena & Lily Seaview Runners in grey. I just ordered the second one for the other side of the island. They clean so easily and take a lot of wear.

One other thing that makes things look cleaner is hiding outlet covers. I do so using vases, cutting boards, etc like below…

This was fun and I hope I didn’t drone on about the kitchen. I’m never sure if I am sharing too much or not enough! I am no expert, but I do enjoy making the space look nice. I am working on a separate page with all the house materials from the remodel coming soon to the blog!

If you have questions about today’s post, here a few of the things I used or are similar to my kitchen…

Lillian Medium Vase, Grey Seaview Runner, Spinnaker Tray, Balboa Counter Stools, Caravan Linen Tea Towels, Gold Utensil Holder, Stonewear Dinner Plates, Bust Planter, Amara Table Lamp , Footed planter ,Teak Spatula and Spoon Set, Ceramic Stoneware Bowl, Braided Handwoven Bread Basket,

More ideas for styling your kitchen today on these wonderful blogs..

CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN

Kim

Links may sometimes generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog.

Summer on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore – My Favorite Spots

August 29, 2020 By kimwheeler 22 Comments

Many of you followed along on Instagram our recent four day getaway to Lake Tahoe, and liked the photos, so I thought I’d post about our first real family getaway in the time of COVID. It was wonderful to finally leave the house for a few days after months of staying put. We squeezed it in just before the youngest son left to began his freshman year at University of Utah.

We are living in such unprecedented times, who knows what is safe and what is risky right now? Each family needs to decide for themselves. A road trip to Tahoe and staying in a rental seemed fairly safe to us. The challenge was avoiding the summer crowds of Tahoe, so we did takeout, cooked in our rental and ate at outdoor restaurants with good safety protocols. We wore our masks all the times we were out among others, did an extra cleaning of the rental upon arrival and left the windows wide open for a full day after we arrived.

As a girl, my family took us to Lake Tahoe for vacations and I have the best memories of those simple summers. My parents would rent little cabins or A- frames often at a beach area called Chamber’s Landing. I have a special affinity for the West Shore of Lake Tahoe thanks to those times. It has a lot of history, many charming old cabins and homes and the most beautiful beaches. I love the gorgeous trees and pine smell that hits you as soon as you arrive and the incomparably blue lake never fails to stun me with it’s beauty.

On this trip we started our days with a morning activity and then hung out afternoons at the lake, swimming, reading, paddle boarding and some sunbathing. We cooked some dinners in and also went out two nights. The highlight of this trip was renting a speed boat the last day and letting the guys try waterskiing. It was a slow and relaxing vacation with a lot of downtime, beautiful sunsets and just what we needed before taking the youngest off to college. I even brought my watercolors to work on. I’m just a beginner still, and I need a lot of help, but it was fun to try painting in the open air.

A few snaps of the trip…

Our rental was in a group of houses with a private beach and shared pier.

Our lawn and beach area. I love the Adirondack chairs that everyone has in Tahoe!

Our coffee spot in the morning. The rental was pretty worn, but it did have a great location.

I loved walking down this beach to see all the lovely lakefront homes. The rocks on this side of the lake beautiful, but very deep and hard to walk in!

We enjoyed a few happy hours on the end of our dock and watching the pretty boats go by..

Some of my favorite musts when on Tahoe’s West Shore..

Tahoe House– a combo of a Swiss Bakery, Deli and gourmet food shop, this treasure has been a mandatory stop on a Tahoe trip for years. I always buy a souvenir for the kitchen or one of their wonderful jams or sauces to bring home as gifts for house or pet sitters. Their lattes I dream about!! We were fortunate to get coffee there a few morning on this trip.

Fire Sign Cafe has outstanding breakfast and also lunch on an expansive lawn that has distancing while you eat under the pines. You can get food to go at their window here too.

Chamber’s Landing is an iconic Tahoe institution. Situated on a beautiful beach, the bar here was the first boat house built on Tahoe in 1865. The beach is used by the many who have vacation homes in the adjoining development. There is now a grill to have the most delicious (best of our trip) outside dinner- socially distanced, with a fantastic lake view. Many people like to come before dinner and take photos with boat house and sunset in the background. Save this for your last night and you won’t regret it!

Next to our rental was the SWA Watersports which rents speedboats, jet skis, paddle boards, private charters, fishing boats and lessons. They have a great protocols during cover- everyone wearing masks, sanitizing and keeping groups separate. We felt good about renting there and recommend doing this or chartering a boat if you don’t want to drive one yourself while you stay in Tahoe! There is no better way to see or experience the lake!

My Apolis market bag was perfect for this car trip and boating!

West Shore Sports Carries bikes and SUP or stand up paddle boards to rent right in Homewood, also with locations in Sunnyside and Sugar Pine Point. They are open every day weather permitting.

Jackson paddle boarding. Mornings and evenings are the best time to try as the water is calmer- same with water skiing.

West Shore Cafe & Hotel is located right next to the SWA Watersports and has a great deck to grab dinner or a cocktail over the water, located right across from Homewood Ski Resort. The cute red umbrellas are busy all day with boaters coming in, but they are very good with masks and well spaced tables.

For a hike with a view, Ellis Peak is easily reached from the West Shore and is of moderate difficulty, but has panoramic views. Griffin and Max did this hike and took a few beautiful photos. More on the hike details on the All Trails link.

Sunnyside is another don’t miss Tahoe stop with an enormous deck to have one of their famous drinks or Hula Pie! During winter months there are cozy spots to have a hot drink by the fire inside. Reservations are helpful as it is one of the most popular places.

via Sunnyside https://www.sunnysidelodge.com

Rafting down the Truckee River is a tradition that families have done forever. It’s an easy five mile float down the river where at the end you can have a lunch at River Ranch Lodge on a patio over the river. We chose not to do this as the river was choked with people when we drove in and we thought it wasn’t smart during COVID. Hopefully when the summer crowds thin or this pandemic is over, you can do this more safely. (photo via Truckee River Rafting.)

There is much more to see on the West Shore by driving south on highway 89. There are parks like The Hellman Ehrman Mansion at Sugar Pine Point State Park, (also a fun place to kayak and picnic) and historic Camp Richardson. Vikingsholm is a particular favorite of mine, a Scandinavian style home built in the 1920’s with materials from Tahoe using old world craftsmanship.

Vikingsholm is built in a medieval style home and if you take the tour you learn more about the style, furnishings and its owner Mrs Knight. It’s set at the bottom of a steep one mile hike on beautiful Emerald Bay. Mrs Knight, built another small house on an island in the middle of Emerald Bay to take her friends for tea. The home fronts a public beach that has a view of this island and is a nice place for a picnic before you do the hike back up to the parking lot. This is something to do very early in the day on warm parts of the year as the hike back up can be strenuous. Tours may be closed during the pandemic, so check the website for Vikingsholm.

One day we went into Tahoe City to shop for souvenirs and get lunch. The Granlibakken Taco Truck has awesome street tacos and authentic Mexican and we took our lunch across the street to Commons Beach. This beach is great for families as it is very shallow for a very long way out. It also has a playground (closed during COVID) but can be crowded. There is a great little local artist co-op fronting the beach there called ARTIsan Shop. It’s a non-profit for local artists and a great place to pick up art, photography, glass woven things, ceramics and so much more – many Tahoe themed.

Also in Tahoe City the Pineapple shop is a go-to for cute Tahoe tote bags, jewelry and home decor things in the Cobblestone Center. I also LOVE Kalifornia Jean Bar which has locations in Truckee, (a charming nearby village if you have time), and in Squaw Valley Village. They sell this sweatshirt with the cool Tahoe spots and many adorable Tahoe shirts.

Where to Stay on Tahoe’s West Shore..

Airbnb in Tahoma/Homewood and the West Shore.

These VRBO rentals are the ten closest to Chamber’s Landing of their listings.

Granlibakken Resort is another place that I hold dear in my heart. I learned to ski on their crazy steep Olympic training hill back in late 70’s and my kids spent many winters sledding here and having hot chocolate at the hut at their sled hill. All the condos here are independently owned and nestled in the prettiest forest locations. There is also a lodge, restaurant and bar as well as a conference center. It has a super location just off 89 in Tahoe City. When renting here ask for an updated condominium. The breakfast buffet cannot be beat before a day of boating or skiing.

West Shore Cafe & Hotel, as mentioned above also has a great lakefront suites and rooms and a hopping restaurant and bar, located just across from Homewood ski resort.

The Cottage Inn is on a fantastic stretch of beach and looks funky and charming. I’ve never been, but their video makes me want to go for a weekend!

Sunnyside is also great lodge with a restaurant right on the lakefront.

On the way into Tahoe you will pass the Olympic Village from the 1960 games. There is a lovely resort- Squaw Creek near the entrance which has all the resort amenities and a huge pool, shops and places to eat and a lot of beautiful hiking as well as proximity to Squaw Valley Village. Plump Jack Inn is also near the village here and is a luxury boutique hotel. (Note: It is currently closed until winter due to the pandemic.)

Please leave any Tahoe favorites of your own in the comments! I’d love to hear what memories you might have of this magical spot.

Thanks for coming along. More on Tahoe in winter on my older posts about Squaw Valley and Plump Jack Inn and also – My Winter Lake Tahoe favorites.

Kim

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Photos property of NorthernCalStyle unless noted.

A Little Memory of My Grandma

May 1, 2018 By kimwheeler 41 Comments

Last Saturday we said goodbye to my Grandma Jody at a celebration of life we held at her church she went to since 1939. It was a bittersweet day, because she had a wonderful long life ( almost 101!), yet we loved her so much, it was hard to say goodbye. I was so busy last week getting things ready for the celebration I hardly had time to think too much.

We had a beautiful service and a catered lunch after in the church hall and lounge. It was really lovely and we decorated with pink tablecloths, pink tulips and in the church we had her favorite plant – pink fuchsias. We made sure the food was overflowing as a sort of tribute to her. She loved to entertain and feed people! Last week my father found more fabulous photos of his mom and I used them to make two great big collages with the help of my son Griffin and my son Jackson made a slideshow for the lunch.

It was nice to hear from so many who appreciated her and loved her and some cute stories about her too. I was doing pretty good until the end of my piece I read about my life with grandma. I got choked up thinking about the cute phone messages she’d always leave me.

Here is what I read and some of the newly discovered photos of her…

1930’s

“I came across a card recently that said, ‘The day you were born, the world had to make room for a little more fancy.’

That struck me as a fitting tribute to my grandma Jody. She was what my kids today call ‘extra,’ She appreciated the pretty, the fancy and the beautiful in life. Looking back on her photos and making these collages with my son Griffin, she was one to wear hats, sparkly shoes, gleaming fabrics and bright colors and prints. As a kid she was fascinating to me. I loved spending hours with her at her house where she would let me choose what lipstick color of the day would be from a drawer full of 30+ colors immaculately ordered in rows by shade. Her closet was a kaleidoscope of dresses by color and her shoes sat above in plexiglass boxes by heel and type. She was hugely organized and every drawer in her home had a purpose and a Martha Stewart look to them. She had a wrapping station above her washer and dryer before such things ever existed, with satin ribbons on a bar crafted for her by my grandfather. She even had an overnight train case packed for adventure ready to go at any moment. When she came to babysit my brother and I, she brought that case along with an array of beautifully flowered swim caps we could choose for her to wear with matching swim suits when she swam with us in our pool. She loved swimming!

With her son Ray, (my dad), myself and baby brother Pete, 1967.

Summer days as a child spent at her home could consist of learning how to make a chef’s salad, misting many of her hundreds of house plants, brushing one of her seven cats who lounged about her home and its atrium, learning how to set a proper table for lunch, and sometimes just watching her soap opera, ‘The Edge of Night,’ with her while we drank gallons of sugar sweetened Lipton instant ice tea.

She was an accomplished seamstress and many hours were spent making special outfits to wear to family birthday parties, for Easter ( a holiday she went all out for ) and even making small tennis dresses for me while I played in her huge button box. She dearly wanted me to sew like her, but sadly I never did. She loved a party and was a fantastic hostess who worked on events for weeks, and had recipes in the quadruples for big parties and church events. To her the biggest sin you could make was sending someone home with an empty stomach. She claimed if there was just enough food for an event, that meant someone went home hungry!

Probably dressed for some sort of party!

I have been very lucky to have been very close to my grandma Jody my entire life. When I was born, I was the first grandchild and she was younger than I am now, only 48 years old. She was an enthusiastic grandmother and had my mother and I with her for a week after I was born and when my brother Peter came along 16 months later, she had two cribs in her home at once for us.

My own earliest memories with her are doing something she called ‘having one of those days together,’ where I would go along while she did errands, and she would put me in the front seat of her metallic tourquise Buick Riviera with my own specially made booster seat that matched the silver leather interior. We would pick up her dry cleaning, drop things off at the cobbler, stop at the pharmacy, and so on while I popped protein pills from Jack LaLane she kept in the glove compartment. Later we would have a ladies lunch out, something I never got to do at home and I would order the diet plate which made her laugh and consisted of cottage cheese and half a pear or peach. Sometimes we would go by a children’s store and I would get to choose something special like a pretty umbrella or a frilly slip, things that were an indulgence of sorts, and I would not normally get, but only after we had visited her friends in the nursing home.

Easter dress in the 50s.

This was one thing I learned early from my grandmother- to care about the elderly and be present and spend time with those who are lonely or ill. She was so dedicated to her older and ill friends. She spent many years helping the elderly ladies at her church get there and when they couldn’t go, visiting them. Her church’s spring tea and other events like that became a huge part of her life, especially after my grandfather died and she made sure to include us too. I always knew that the church tea was coming or it’s annual bazaar and it was important to her. I credit my own mother, Suzanne who is no longer here, to helping me be close to my grandmother. I often got the call, even when I was young and busy with my own life saying, “Grandma is hoping you’ll be there,” and “Grandma is looking forward to seeing you.’ So I thank my mother so much for that.

As a child of the depression, she learned to appreciate everything she had. Her attitude could be described as Pollyanna like and she always saw the glass as half full. She never talked of her years as a kid as hard, though when the depression hit she had to go along with her family who moved with the harvest every year packing fruit and vegetables. She attended high schools in Oregon, San Jose and El Centro, but saw the time as fun.

She also absorbed all she learned from the many summers she spent in Lake Chelan cared for by her dear Grandma Eaton. Her grandmother taught her how to garden, make healthy foods from scratch – like sauerkraut from a big barrel in the yard, and she learned sayings like, ‘Beauty is as beauty does,’ and ‘You’ll get more flies with honey.” Those she also shared to me more times than I could roll my eyes at.

It is hard to imagine life without her. I never thought I’d be age 52 and still have a grandmother. She’d always say, ‘Kim I want you to write that down, so people will remember these things.’ So yes I remember much of what she went through. The world changed probably the most during her lifetime. The phone, the radio, cars, television, flight, the internet – all came about during her lifetime. She has stories of listening on the porch to the radio when Lindbergh crossed the Atlantic, and also hearing about Amelia Earhart.

The things though I will remember the most are what she imparted to me without saying. Those things are, spend quality time with those you love, make an effort everyday, in how you dress, how you eat, and how you treat others. Also -appreciate what you have and keep the good thoughts in your heart and enjoy being with people. Grandma was the ultimate extrovert and after a family gathering or a church party would call me a day later, often leaving a voice mail if I wasn’t there and say, “Honey I am still in a rosy glow from it all,'”

I think this may be the day she got engaged. She is holding a ring box and has her ring on. She was married in 1937.

Grandma left with her mom Edith and sister Nora.

Snapped on the street shopping with her sister Nora in San Jose, 1930’s.

With daughter Wendy.

With my dad Ray in the early 40s.

Camping at Seabright beach, early 50s with my Aunt Wendy.

Family shot early 50s.

With my Aunt Wendy and her dolls and a cat. Love the Spanish style home with it’s succulents- Fullerton, California 1950s.

Their newly built in pool, San Jose 1950’s. Love the matching swim suits and rubber flip-flops!

With my aunt, 1950s.

Hosting a backyard pool party.

A black tie event 1960s. I love her white flocked tree which you can see on the corner here. One year she had a pink one.

Horseback with my dad, 1940s.

Family photos from the 50s. Note my dad’s flat-top below. he says that was cool?

Possibly in their first home, downtown San Jose, 1930s. I love the curtains in the arched entry!

Thanks for letting me share her with you all. She always enjoyed all the comments from years past.

Kim

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California Weekends- What to Pack for Carmel and Monterey

May 6, 2012 By kimwheeler 13 Comments

What do I wear- and pack? That is the first thing on my mind is when I am planning a getaway to the Carmel/ Monterey area. It can be tricky as it’s a California coastal area, but more often than not can be cool, though sunny. As we are very casual in California you’ll see a lot of looks like this outfit above, worn by Ashley Olsen which is so Carmel to me, with a laidback luxe feel.

The original post on this was written in 2012, after a little getaway to Carmel to celebrate my husband’s birthday. It has become so popular I have updated it over the years. As a Bay Area and Northern Cal gal we get there a lot, so I feel qualified to advise. The photo above, in Pebble Beach, was from my latest trip there, October 2019. Fall is actually a warmer time than summer often!

You’re going to love this area and if you pack the right things, enjoy it too. This updated post has some newer links and photos to help you plan a trip in 2021 and beyond!

Carmel is one of the most gorgeous places on the planet and I am continually thrilled by its beauty on each trip. I am so fortunate to live here in Northern California and be nearby. When I say Carmel, I also mean the whole Monterey Peninsula area, which encompasses Carmel by the Sea, Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel Valley in the hills to the East.

You could be staying in the warm and sunny Carmel Valley, but will most likely end up at some point in the foggier and cooler town of Carmel, too. For this reason you need to pack for two climates! I kid you not . If you don’t believe me try spending a day in town here and you will see how many Carmel sweatshirts are sold to tourists. It’s not unusual to see winter coats and sweaters worn here especially during summer time. Carmel Valley, up the road about 20 minutes from Carmel is a warm wine region and not unlike Napa and Sonoma. So you really have to think before packing.

Most of my visits to Carmel I have wandered around like Jennifer Aniston above, with sandals, yet burrowed up in a big sweater!

Carmel is a cosmopolitan place where people dress very well, but casual. Carmel Valley tends to be a horsier set where as Carmel by the Sea, is a little more luxe. Monterey where the aquarium and Cannery Row are, is super casual.

Bottom line…This is the capital of casual chic. People dress well, even though they are dressed down.

What to pack for a weekend in Carmel and Monterey. . .

White jeans. Even in winter. They look great with heavy sweaters and pea coats.

These white cords from J. Crew are perfect for Carmel, also this thicker white cropped pair, and these vintage straight ones.

I love this look of Linda Wright and her daughter- both making white denim look chic in cool temps..Look at Linda’a Instagram for a lot of inspirational looks with white denim..

Other white denim looks that could work for Carmel…Dressier here like below..

Alternatively, khaki or black jeans ..

These black jeans similar from J Crew are cute and versatile -with sandals or boots and you can dress them up for dinner..And these classic straight legs from Frame are a versatile choice that will feel great too.

Blue jeans of course…

I love this relaxed version and this one .This pair by Frame is a new classic that will flatter all sizes.

I love the mix of straw bag and sweater – and sweater plus sandals..A little summer and winter together works by the sea.

I love this classic straw bag with a leather handle by J. Crew – the perfect tote to pair with your sweater and for travel.

This woven leather bag is another casual tote that’s luxe looking.

Button down shirt in white or denim for day. Great for layering with chunky sweaters. Can also double a a cover-up by the pool if it’s longer.

A great classic white button down here. And great quality by Frank & Eileen.

Comfy flats. I always have a pair of ballet flats and a cute pair of tennis shoes.

I love a good white sneaker and Vejas are so California classic and neutral in all their variations. Perfect for up and down the hills of Carmel and a day of walking. Also more Vejas here and here.

These suede Pumas are another cute option too..

And these New Balance are quite popular..and also a neutral.

Ballet flats are another good thing to have on hand and a good a sneaker alternative. Love the look and shape of these Sam Edelmans, which come in a few colors..and also these classics by Tory Burch and these are a modern update on the ballet flat with many pretty shades.

Flip flops for the pool or beach. I have this pair of Tory Burch that have lasted years. They make everything look California casual chic and upgraded. Great to wear to the spa or breakfast as well.. Right now they have these..

If you want to go a little more luxe this Gucci pair is very Carmel…

Throw in a pair of heeled sandals for evenings if you feel like dressing up. Streets are hilly in Carmel by the sea. Heels can work for dinner only if you aren’t walking there . Heels will look ridiculous during the day and are impractical with the hills here and the beach.

Cozy cardigan or wrap for cool days and around the room as a robe over your night clothes. Any cashmere wrap is also perfect for that and layering! This sweater is similar to below..

Even warmer light quilted or puffer jacket, moto jacket, blazer or trench to layer. These Herno puffers are gorgeous and very popular in Carmel. If you need something less pricey Uniqlo has other great options.

Here I am a few years ago with my son wearing a scarf and my trench coat in late summer!

A cashmere wrap is a wonderful idea for this area to ward the chill off in evenings and for an extra layer. This one by J.Mclaughin is lovely and will be a travel piece you can count on wherever you go.

Swimsuit. I always prefer a tankini or a bikini with a rash guard to layer. This is a flattering tank I love and another by Tory is a classic and beautifully made suit and this is universally flattering and and cute.

Cute cover-up, ( I love this shirt style , in so many pretty prints from J. Crew and also this shorter one ) hat for the beach walk and tote for the pool or spa if there is one. I have this hat I always take to Carmel and a close copy is here.

For dinners dress warmly. Almost all evenings are cool in Carmel, once the fog rolls in. A pretty blouse paired with or soft sweater with nice denim is the norm.

I think you can’t go wrong with a black pant/ sweater combo for dinners – chic and warm.

A chunky cable-knit or similar sweater. Cute with shorts- or jeans, depending on the day.

One casual skirt or shorts should the weather turn warm. One of my favorite looks is denim shorts and a long-sleeved T or sweater. Perfect for places by the coast where the weather is sunny yet cool. This Anthro khaki skirt is cute with sneakers or sandals, as would be this embroidered denim cutie.

One handbag that can go from day to night. A cross-body could do double duty.

Cozy pants and soft T-shirt for lounging around the room. PJs could also work. I do like to have something cute and warm with me to wear to breakfast without getting dressed for the day yet.
Yoga pants or leggings and a wrap sweater could work with a soft T for breakfast. Add boots to your leggings and a swingy sweater or poncho and you have an outfit…

This Barefoot Dreams Coastal Cardigan is a nice option and layering piece, especially for Carmel. This sweater jacket from J. Crew is a chic and warm, also their cashmere poncho.

Boots are worn year-round in Carmel. I didn’t pack mine last August and was so mad at myself. All the gals wear them in summer too. Of course people have Uggs, but a classic tall black boot like this, in black looks chic and preppy too. Also this brown boot is very Carmel Valley.

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