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Weekend Meanderings- Outdoor Throws, Makeup Tips and a Chanel Inspired Cardigan

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On this Weekend Meanderings..Some outdoor updates with a solar sail, the perfect outdoor throws to cozy up with, a beautiful book on creating a memorable table, the best makeup tips, and a transitional summer to fall cardigan I am obsessed with…

It’s that time again for all the good things that popped up on our radars this week with Elizabeth and Juliet.

Hard to believe it’s already August and kids are starting back to school in a few weeks. Where did the summer go? Time to go out and grab those fleeting summer pleasures before fall sneaks up on us. Have you been to the beach lately? Have you had an evening ice cream cone or taken a picnic to the woods? Have you set out a chair and watched the stars at night with your family or enjoyed a summer gathering with neighbors? If not, get to it!

Backyard Update

Well before summer is over, we are finally getting a few things in the yard done.. Better late than winter right? That is so us!

We have an oddly shaped yard with a pool with a lap lane, that wraps around the house. Our patio, right off our main space, is almost like an island, surrounded by water. It’s an Ipe wood deck and while I love it, it can be hard to get all the furniture on it and also have a space for an umbrella…and with multiple ones it’s lame and crowded..

L-shaped in ground pool

Earlier this year, I looked into a cantilevered umbrella, so we wouldn’t have the umbrella underfoot, but the walkway where it would go, isn’t wide enough. Max came up with the idea of a solar sail. I wasn’t sure, as it has to be stretched across the pool and anchored on a fence..

It came Saturday, and he put it up on Sunday! I am pleasantly surprised how much we love it. My only complaint is I would have preferred white, but he though neutral was a good color and ordered it without spousal approval.. Ahem.

We may order another in white. These sails are from Amazon and make the patio feel like an outdoor room, and gives us much more space, without the umbrellas underfoot.

We are enjoying it in the mornings more now out here as things don’t get so dewy. Max on his lunch hour…

outdoor Solar sail from Amazon on Patio

I’ll try to get a whole yard photo, but you can kind of see how it’s working…

Amazon solar sail on over patio in beige

Throws and folding table at TJMaxx’s /Homegoods

Each year I seem to want to change up the throws outside. They get pretty beat. That said I also don’t want them to be too pricey. I think I may have found the best compromise at Homegoods (aka TJ Max), with these 100% cotton throws from Portugal…

Serena & Lily Pacifica Sofa and outdoor pillow

I love the slightly nubby weave on them, and the variety of designs in soft grey and blues. I have a few on the backs of the couch and more in a basket. Everyone likes wrapping themselves up them in the morning sipping coffee or at night. I like that they are from Portugal, where they have a lot of high quality textiles.

Also I found this Panama Jack brand folding wicker/wood outdoor table and I love it. It’s not online, but I noticed there are still a lot of them left in stores and they are $49!

Serena & Lily Pacifica Sofa in Driftwood
Our sofa is the Pacifica Sofa in Driftwood from Serena & Lily. It’s actually $1100 off now.. It’s a good time to get any outdoor items!

In the throws, I have this denim blue one , below and this stripe and this chevron one. They have some great ones in store that are similar with a small stripe. It’s a great time to grab these cotton ones as I see they are beginning to make way for the heavier fall and winter throws already!

outdoor cotton throw
Cotton throw from Portugal
TJMaxx Throw from Portugal

Recovering Outdoor Furniture Pieces

I’ve had a furniture set for many years outside my office door that needs new cushions. I decided to recover them in new Sunbrella fabric and have the stuffing redone as well. It’s one of those things I’ve been meaning to do for two years. Isn’t that terrible?

Do you ever have a project like that and it just sits and for some reason you never do it? Well this week I did it! I’m so happy and I will have a nice little sitting area just for me, outside my office doors..

This is the sad state currently..

I found a local shop, Krupps Upholstery in Campbell, a family owned business with father and his son, a veteran that just did 8 years in Iraq, and is now studying business at San Francisco State. Super knowledgeable and kind people.

I loved their service and help with my set and I choose this Sunbrella Sailcloth Salt fabric, below left, for my three pieces- two chairs and an ottoman…

Sunbrella Fabric in Sailcloth Salt
Sunbrella Fabric in Fretwork Pewter.

I also have them making two, 24 x 24 pillows in this Sunbrella fabric, above right , called Fretwork in Pewter.

Stay tuned and I will share the results. I just wanted to mention them in case anyone is thinking of reupholstering, especially older outdoor cushions.

A Loving Table book for entertaining inspo..

A Loving Table book

I’ve been meaning to share A Loving Table: Creating Memorable Gatherings , a gorgeous book I bought myself a month for so ago. It’s all about entertaining and creating a beautiful table. There’s a a wide range of styles in here and all are a feast for the eyes..

Rust and white table setting.

The book includes fantastic looking recipes as well. This is a great gift for a friend or anyone who enjoys entertaining and living well.

I keep meaning to take a cup of tea and grab a corner to indulge in every story and plan a few special meals.

pink and blue table with fish plate
black marble table and black candles

My Mersea bag

I know summer is almost over, but I finally ordered one more woven bag for myself that was on my radar. I also spied a very chic blogger at our conference, carrying one, so I finally clicked and bought the medium Medina Market basket with the off white handles…

Mersea medina Market Basket Tote

I love it and of course put my tassel on it. I mentioned this on the linen post too, but someone just asked so I’m sharing it again.

Mersea medina Market Basket white
Mersea medina Market Basket

The small size is darling for a dinner date, the medium for an everyday tote, and the large for a travel bag or the beach or some people use it as a file holder on their desk. I love the saffron color and there is also a jade, indigo and black handle versions.

Mersea medina Market Basket

By the way, if you still want one of these cute tassels, they have them in fall colors as well. I am thinking of getting a new color for my fall bags..

Wool purse tassels on Etsy.

Instagram Makeup Pointers ..

My new obsession on Instagram is Kate Albert, who has the best makeup tutorials that are simple for a pretty, not heavy makeup look.

Did you know you are supposed to press your foundation into your skin, not rub it or sponge it? Already using her tips, my skin looks so much more natural..

Kate Albert Makeup tips Instagram

A Summer to Fall Piece to consider..

This hoodie/Chanel inspired sweater has made it’s way onto my radar and I’m thinking it could be my first purchase for my fall wardrobe edit. Could this be the sweater Coco would create had she lived in California today? I’m loving it. It would be pretty now over a black tank dress, and later on with white jeans, and come fall with black denim…

Anthropologie Maeve zip up Chanel inspired Cardigan

This week was also time for our monthly Signature Style -and if you missed it, it was all about linen clothes and chic pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Well that is my weekend meanderings for this week.. Please check out Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs to see what good things they are sharing…

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Thank you for being here!

Kim

If you missed my last Weekend Meanderings, I did a recap of my jaunt to Georgia, shared a great summer dress, my favorite new vase that looks like an art piece for $39, and my favorite kind of day out in Palo Alto for consignment shopping and lunch!

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month and every Saturday for Weekend Meanderings.

Some links will generate a small commission here, which helps make this blog possible. Thanks so much for your support!

Weekend Meaderings- Summer Whites, Kitchen Pendants, a Sunscreen You’ll Love & More

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It’s time for our Weekend Meanderings with Elizabeth and Juliet. I hope your week has been good. Mine flew by, but there’s a few new things around here so let’s get to it..

My New Pendants!

I wrote the week before last about finally making a decision for new kitchen pendants and these Serena & Lily small Headlands Bell Pendants seemed like a fun choice and the price was great (still on sale for $278). They came quickly and Max was able to put them up for me one night this week! I wasn’t sure if they would be too beachy, but I actually LOVE them. I’m very happy with the look and they kind of soften up the kitchen which has a lot of sharp angles. At night they give off a pretty look to the ceiling too.

If you’re looking for pendants or a light for a room, they come in a few different sizes and shapes also in a black and the quality is very nice for the price!

Summer bath refresh..

I recently added a few new things to our main bath and one was this little ladder towel bar and a vase from Target.

Serena & Lily has one of these ladders, but they can also be found here at Anthro, here and here. Mine was a Homegoods find.

They no longer have this vase (or not online that I can find), but this is a similar one I also have from Target and I love the texture. Since this is under a skylight, and get a lot of sun, I added a dried faux eucalyptus branch in the little vase..

Easy summer white dresses

I am getting ready to go to a conference in Atlanta next week with blogging pals, Juliet, Annie and Mary Ann and was trying to find light dresses to take. I know it’s going to be very warm and humid..I was forced to do the mall thing and actually fell in love with two dresses, this unique shirt dress by Club Monaco with pretty stitching, a unique gather in the back and cool pockets.

I also found this Rail’s Jasmine dress. I am normally not a fan of these elasticized waists, but this dress has a relaxed fit and the prettiest details and a built in slip on the bottom.

Below, I’m in the Rails dress…and a bit sweaty and wrinkled..I had just gotten back from an outdoor lunch when Max snapped this, but you can see the length. It’s a nice run about dress and to take for travel. The skirt has a built in slip. I bought a small. but I’m usually a medium. I’m 5’3 and 135. I’m wearing my favorite Tory Burch espadrille slides I bought a year ago. They no longer have them, but I am considering these which are this year’s version of her espadrille slides..so cute!

White accent for the home

This shorter version of a garden stool popped up on Amazon and reminded me of my grandma’s 1960’s home. I like the shorter look and how nice to pop a plant on, or have two flanking an entry door, or to hold a pile of towels in a bathroom, or maybe two under a console table? Just a few ideas for this cutie.

A pretty San Francisco Townhouse in Frederic magazine

I love Frederic magazine by Schumacher and they always have inspiring homes. This 1920’s San Francisco townhouse in the Presidio Heights neighborhood by SF designer Allison Caccoma  and updated by architect Andrew Skurman is one of them!

The owner is a lifelong collector of unique pieces and had Pinterest boards of how she wanted every room. With the most gorgeous arched windows and pretty terraces, it’s a dream. I’m crazy for the terrace above, with its the brick laid on the side in a zig-zag pattern and the beautiful doors. The owner has a mix of things from all periods and styles, which is very modern and personal.

The cutest summer totes

If you aren’t familiar with Mersea and their Moroccan totes, they are worth checking out. They are beautifully made and come in three sizes and a few colors and designs.. I love the white versions of their Medina Market basket. The small is perfect for a little handbag, the medium for a tote to hold more for a day out or a trip and the large is great even for storage and many use it for files! Love the cute details on the leather tab too..

Chantecaille Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation

In summer I really don’t want to much makeup on and I am also lazy. I found this light compact foundation that also has decent coverage and makes my skin look so nice. I just puff it on quickly with the sponge and use a fingertip for areas I want a bit more coverage. It’s a water-based foundation formula with smoothing and anti-pollution skincare ingredients that blur imperfections. It also comes with one refill for the compact. I have been using the Vanilla color. This is the perfect summer foundation! For each cushion compact or refill sold, a bottle of milk for a baby elephant is bought at the wildlife refuge Chantecaille supports -another lovely thing!

Supergoop family size pump

My friend Stacy who I play tennis with, always knows the latest and greatest and told me about this wonderful sunscreen by Goop Play Sunscreen SPF 50, which is so good and comes in a family size pump. It’s a fast-absorbing, non-greasy, water and sweat-resistant, and broad-spectrum SPF 50 lotion for the face and body.

I now have it in the pool bath/mudroom space where everyone uses it on the way out. I love how it feels on, not sticky or thick and is easy to rub in. It smells good, doesn’t leave a white residue, and everyone seems to like it. So important because I want us all to use more sunscreen here in California!

The Lady Di Look Book

This isn’t in the white theme, but I had to share this new release which looks very good..

This new release, The Lady Di Look Book: What Diana Was Trying To Tell Us Through Her Clothes, by Eloise Moran looks to be a really fun read.. and a must for any anglophile and Diana fan. It takes a deeper drive into Diana’s clothes and finds the meanings she was trying to convey, plus many interesting tidbits about her life we didn’t know before, added in with beautiful photos. There is a sample on the Amazon link and it looks great. I’ve already pre-ordered. It comes out next week!

Micro Weddings

Are you a fan of small weddings? The last pandemic years have encouraged so many to go small instead of the usual big overblown and pricey bashes. I personally love an intimate wedding and we had one too. This year especially a lot of people have chose to go small thanks to date and venue shortages, and they are just tired of waiting. I think you can have a stylish and smart wedding with all your dream details for a small group. Micro weddings are the latest things and Juliet is on it! Her niece just had a very chic and sweet ceremony and reception for twenty with so many good ideas that Juliet wrote about it this week. Cute Sophie and Chad, below..

Well that’s my meanderings. Please stop by Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs and see what’s on their minds this week..

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Thank you for being here!

Kim

If you missed last week, I shared designer Ulla Johnson’s beautiful Montauk home and her fashions, Wimbledon spectator style, Tahoe hikes to try, and more!

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month and every Saturday for Weekend Meanderings.

Some links will generate a small commission here, which helps make this blog possible. Thanks so much for your support!

Weekend Meanderings- Nancy Meyer’s Remodel, Wimbledon, a Day Out in Danville & More

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It’s time for our Weekend Meanderings with Elizabeth and Juliet ! It’s been a week so this extra holiday weekend is much needed by all here in America I think.. We are heading to Tahoe for a few days and I hope we will to get some quality nature and family time in and if I’m lucky some reading by the lake..

A few good things this week..

Nancy Meyer’s Home Remodel in AD

I was very excited to hear Nancy Meyer’s own Provençal style Los Angeles home was going to be featured in Architectural Digest this month after my Instagram friend in the Netherlands alerted me. Thanks Sally!

This article delivered with many beautiful photos of the home and Nancy herself. In the article Nancy tells how once she was an empty nester in the house where she raised her daughters, she felt it was too large, so began building a smaller replica of her home next door. In the interim two years while it was being built, she had fun changing up the original with paint and little tweaks, and fell back in love with it, stayed and sold the new build. The California classicist, Mark D. Sikes did the design with her and there is more about how they worked together in the July issue of the magazine.

You could say her style is California elegant- lots of white, punctuated natural elements like rattan, a little black here and there, stacks of books, pretty pillows, lovely pieces of art, and fresh flowers. This is good living at it’s best and her interiors always look comfortable and inviting! I’m all for this kind of style that’s homey more than showy.

Are you a Nancy Meyer’s fan? If so I am interested to know what’s your favorite film or interior? My favorite is It’s Complicated, and the Santa Barbara home of the baker heroine played by Meryl Streep. The whole article and all the photos online here or in the July issue of AD.

Wimbledon Chat

Are you glued to the television like we are during Wimbledon? I have been trying to limit myself to one match a day, sometimes I record it and watch in the evening. I’m rooting for all the young players who are making it up the ranks. Emma Raducanu who won the French Open is one of my favorites.. How do you like her $37,000 worth of pearls and diamonds she is wearing? Apparently she is sponsored by Tiffany! I just wonder how much sun and sweat those kind of pearls can take?

Also loving Coco Gaufe and I am a fan of Tsitsipas only because he looks like my teen crush Bjorn Borg who adorned my teenager walls.

Vogue has a fun piece with the best on court looks at Wimbledon over the years. You know they are very strict still and you are supposed to wear white and only white, no exceptions, and no accents! They still ask people to change clothes. Some of my favorites from the article.

Lunch date in Danville

Last Friday I met Juliet for a working lunch and a little shopping. I hadn’t been to Danville in about twenty years and it has changed a lot. The little downtown is very charming and there are many sweet shops and restaurants. We stopped in two of them, Eye for Pretty a wonderful home shop, and Flaunt, that has home and beautiful clothing. Flaunt is owned by Ashley, who writes the fun blog, Modern Glam Home. Both are great shops and Juliet and I were dying over so many things..

Juliet at Eye for Pretty, above

Flaunt below .. I loved this dress on Juliet in the blue stripe with little lemons. It was made for our Ms Spritzer..and she looks good in everything !

Juliet made us reservations at the cutest restaurant, Locando Ravello, where I had caprese salad and she had a chicken parmigiana.. I highly recommend the very authentic and delicious Italian food here. Normally you’d want to sit outdoors in the cute patio, but that day was nearly 100, so we opted for inside.I plan on coming back here with Max some summer evening.

I loved the blue decor, which reminded me of Sorrento. The caprese dish was so delicious, it inspired me to recreate it in a small version on our Travel Inspired Appetizers, earlier this week, in case you missed it.

Serena & Lily Sale

I know I have mentioned Serena & Lily sales before, but I get a lot of inquiries about my house things like my Montara Mirror below, and I like to let people know when their things go on sale. Right now the entire site is 20% off – use code SPLASH.

It’s also a great time to get their towels which I love, and I am seriously considering three of these Headlands Pendants for above my kitchen island. My current ones are no longer functioning, and these have a pretty look and decent price too..

From the S&L website.. I kind of love this look..

The Serena & Lily sale ends on July 5th.

Our rights…

Thanks to all who read and left messages, many very personal about the overturning of Roe last week. I was so moved by the comments and some private messages, which I will share on stories. I am collecting them all. Women amaze me, what we go through in our lives with pregnancies, births, and also those living with the trauma of sexual assault..

More of us than not, have had struggles with all of these things and yet we are stoic. So many move through life and others don’t even know what scars we are carrying. It blows me away the bravery and toughness of women and the selflessness. That’s one reason why taking the right to decide what happens to our own bodies and consequently, our lives, for half the nation is beyond cruel.

This article about the participants of a years long landmark study was a shocking and sad comparison of what the lives were like in later years for the women who were denied abortion, compared to those who were not.

Amy Odell’s Back Row ( an excellent blog) this week, exposed the hypocrisy by some companies who say they’ll support women needing abortion help, and yet have money going to PACs that support lawmakers who have be vocally opposed to Roe.

An article we all need to read on Global Citizen- ‘What happens in nations where abortion is banned? Lessons from around the world.’

This page has all the abortion funds in the United States by area, so you can choose to help a fund near to your home, or perhaps one that needs more support.

Well that’s my meanderings for this week. Please stop by Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs and see what’s on their minds this week..

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Thank you for being here.

Kim

If you missed last weeks meanderings, living like an Italian, California casual dresses, a day trip in Aptos, a cite Santa Cruz cottage for sale and more here.

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month and every Saturday for Weekend Meanderings.

Some links will generate a small commission here, which helps make this blog possible. Thanks so much for your support!

Weekend Meanderings- a California Road Trip Cookbook, Dining Room Refresh & More

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Hi and welcome to my Weekend Meanderings with Elizabeth and Juliet. This month has been flying by. I have been loving our June weather and some of these cooler days. I can hardly believe it’s Father’s Day weekend already. Are you doing anything special? We are making Max a breakfast of French Toast per his request and then a BBQ with my dad and my boys.

On Sunday Max is meeting up with his guy friends to Circumnavigate Lake Tahoe for Science. This is a public kayak event and part of UCDavis TERC or Tahoe Environmental Research Center. The trip is a 7 day thing, but Max is just joining friends for one day of it. It’s meant to celebrate the beauty of the lake, raise awareness of threats to the lake, help do some research, and hear from scientists. Funds help raise money for Tahoe. You can read more about it here. Sounds really fun and if you can’t do this year, maybe next time? I love this organization dedicated to preserving Lake Tahoe. They also have an Instagram page to follow, so you can stay on top of events.

Nigella’s Madeira Cake

Both Max and my dad love this cake, so I will be making it for our barbecue. I am sure I shared it before, but it’s the easiest and one of the most delicious cakes. It is also spectacular served with fresh strawberries in summer.

This comes from one of my first and most favorite cookbooks, Nigella’s How To Be a Domestic Goddess. I don’t think it worked for me, but I did dutifully work through a lot of the recipes and the Madeira cake, which is basically a lemon pound cake, the first recipe in the book and a winner. The crust is amazing and this cake tastes even better the second day..if it lasts that long!

It’s an easy cake to lug to a gathering. It’s lovely for tea or a birthday and makes a sweet gift too. Go to Nigella’s site for her exact recipe that is printable, and make sure to toggle to US measurements if you need cups vs. grams. If that seems tricky, this is a screen shot of the recipe from my Cookery Bubble on my Instagram from the book.

I see on the comments someone has tried this cake with oranges as a stand in for lemons and I will try that next time! The Domestic Goddess Book is now 20 years old, but still ahead of others with its modern look and simple recipes accompanied by great stories. Still one of the best!

The Forest Feast Roadtrip Cookbook

Speaking of cookbooks, I also just bought the wonderful new Erin Gleeson Book, Forest Feast Roadtrip, chock full of recipes from all the best spots in our amazing state.

Erin lives in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but traveled the state during the pandemic with her young family and stayed in California’s most gorgeous places. Some of my favorite spots like Humboldt, Tahoe, Sea Ranch, Santa Barbara, and Palm Springs and others are featured in her book. Yummy recipes reflecting the tastes of those areas and along with the stunning photos in cute Airbnbs make this a must have in your California cookbook collection!

This book has over 100 vegetarian (not vegan) recipes all I am excited to try! If you’re not familiar Erin has a whole collection of her Forest Feast cookbooks, which are a treat with her watercolors, photography and healthy recipes. You can follow Erin on Instagram too.

Erin’s Santa Cruz Mountain home and her fantastic cookbook library. #goals

We’ve been making the date shakes non-stop from this book this month and they are delicious!

Dining Room Refresh

I’m slowly working my way through the house things I’ve been putting off and I thought I’d share a small change I love in the dining space..

I had a light wool rug I moved to our living room and to replace it, I had bought a darker polypropylene rug, which was supposed to wear well, but hated it. The space just felt dark. I knew I wanted something lighter and prettier here with my iron and steel table.

I found the Alamere rug on Serena & Lily. I like this for three reasons, it is a jute/wool flat weaves, the price was not outrageous, and it is reversible. I’ve been stalking it for a while and I am really pleased with it. I think it improves the space and lends a luxe look the other just couldn’t thanks to the soft colors and a raised pattern.

I also was in need of window help here. We had light woven panels, but they gave little privacy and we needed more sun filtering on hot days. I just ordered custom linen Roman style shades for some other windows (more on that soon), but custom made drapes for this long expanse start above $2,500! As I just spent money on the shades, I had to save somewhere else. I was going to order some basic white panels from Pottery Barn, but then happened on these unique panels at the Cupertino Homegoods.

I’m not a huge Homegoods fan, because I am always looking for quality, but sometimes they have just the thing. Something about these just spoke to me, and they were nice. They have a raised ogee shape that is a bit fringy. They are a dark smoky blue and are even marked down. They are Rachel Ashwell brand. Up close, this photo is making them look grey, but they’re more smoky blue.

I brought them home and four panels worked with my space. I also kept two of the woven panels for sheers in the center when I want just a little light diffusion. The panels are 96 inches and puddle a bit, which gives it even a more romantic feel and look….

So for a total of $80 I now have new drapes too. I guess you’d say this room is a little high, little low, but that’s kind of my favorite way of decorating! You can find the panels here. You can find more pretty curtain styles by Rachel Ashwell here. Her things seem to be of a nicer design and quality.

Flutter Sleeve Tops

On the hotter days I have been wearing a few flutter sleeve tops that feel pretty and feminine. I have found some here and there, and though I don’t have the most toned arms, I hope the pretty shoulder details make up for that. I just spotted this Flutter Blouse from Cloth & Stone, one of my favorite brands and it checks all the boxes for me with soft material, looser fit and well stripes..I love the fabric.

Persuasion

I was very excited to see a new film of Jane Austen’s Persuasion is out this July in theaters starring Dakota Johnson. Persuasion was the first Austen book I ever read. I remember the exact summer I read it, lounging in my parent’s yard as a college student… and it’s a wonderful book. I don’t know if the film does it justice as I see they’ve added some modern language to it.

Either way, it looks like a fun film and if you’re looking for a different summer read, this is a great time to read or reread the novel, before the film comes out.

Black Outdoor Pillows

I’ve been wanting to refresh the outdoor pillows and though I shared this post with many outdoor pillow choices, I still needed something with black to go with my yard. Annie Selke had these cute modern ones which will give my patio a graphic pop.

There is also this fun pattern on One King’s Lane, and this dotted one at Annie Selke which reverse to the opposite pattern.

The post a few weeks ago with more outdoor pillows here!

Juneteenth

Did you know this Sunday the 19th is also Juneteenth? This year will only be the second time we as a country celebrate it as a national holiday. Biden signed it into law last year, but people have been celebrating this date, marking the emancipation of African Americans from slavery in Texas for a long time.

I just found this great list of films to stream that better show the reality of being black in this nation. I think it’s a great time to take a few nights this summer to watch some of these..and share one of those films with family as well when kids are home.

Also on Instagram I follow the most eloquent woman Lynae Vanee, who does a weekly rant in her parking lot. She is funny and straight up. She’s a scholar in African American studies and I love her take on the state of the world and history and she is one to follow if you want to understand better the black experience in America. Love her and you can follow her here.

Well that’s my meanderings for this week. Please stop by my lovely pals Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs and see what’s happening in their spaces!

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Thank you for being here. Have a lovely weekend,

Kim

Last week’s post had my summer go-to’s in sunscreen, shorts, body lotion, the best warm weather jacket, a beautiful pink kitchen, easy summer dress and more.

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month and every Saturday for Weekend Meanderings.

Some links will generate a small commission here, which helps make this blog possible. Thanks so much for your support!

Five Ways to Bring a Summer Feel to Your Home

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Today I’m joining a fun group of bloggers for Project Design.. and today’s subject is Summer Decor Refresh. Having a deadline to share ideas here got me into gear getting the house freshened up. There have been a few things laying around, piles of winter blankets, wool pillow and a lot of clutter we just don’t need.

Summer has come upon us so fast. I noticed our local schools are out and everyone seems to be breathing a sort of collective sigh. Kids are playing in sprinklers, people are taking late evening strolls and lining up for ice cream in the evenings. This time of year goes fast, so why not make our homes have that happy vacation vibe too? Have some fun with this and think of it as ‘staging’ your home, but for your enjoyment… some ideas I’ll share.

Ways to bring a summer vibe to your home..

Bring the outside in. Get some pretty woven baskets ( I like these from Target) and drop in a snake plants or a monstera which are low care and look fantastic. I just added both of those plants. Think beach house. On my coffee table where plants tend to die, I added a faux green branch and a driftwood stick we treasure in a modern glass vase. The natural stick with the faux looks richer and gives a fresh pop to the table.

I also just got this Beaufort Tray I’ve been coveting from Serena & Lily and it was just what I needed here to lighten it and give it a California feel. I added a coral on top of these books and have some of my favorite shells scattered about. Pottery Barn also has these lovely real shells that you can add to vases or bowls.

Lighten up. Clear the floors and put away extra rugs. I love the feel of bare floor underfoot in the summer and rolled my extra throw rugs away until colder months. My faux fur throws and wool blankets got stored and we now have our linen and cotton throws by the sectional and in our basket. I love this PB throw which is perfect for a summer chair or sofa.. My wool and heavy pillows are replaced with some lighter block print and linen ones.

In my dining room I changes out a darker rug with a light colored cotton/wool Kilim style rug I’ve been saving for… which just arrived! I love as it lightens the whole house. Nice that this is a two-sided rug that I hope will last a long time!

Soften your bedding. This is a nice time to change out your duvet or heavy comforter with a cotton matelasse quilt and crisp white sheets. I’ve just taken all my older white sets out of storage and washed them with oxyclean to brighten them up. I tie them with a ribbon and place lavender sachets with them. I love white sheets in the summer. This Celeste Cotton quilt is my summer bed cover and in the winter I layer it with my duvet. Love this and it feels like a cloud.

Declutter. Go through the house and see what items can be put away for the season. Too often we live with ‘stuff’ because it’s just always there. If you walk through your home and try and put away one or two things on each surface. Summer is all about breathing room. If you must have stuff out, try basketizing things. A pretty basket can help corral mail, papers, keys and things and and looks calmer. I also switch up my books and put any summer themed books front and center.

Add in natural materials. Think island living type of materials, which give a vacation vibe. This is a good time to pull out baskets, rattan pieces, cane anything, and things with a woven feel or natural wood. I have my market baskets and hats by the door with my linen pillows I have collected over the years from Patine in Santa Cruz. I find the coolest baskets can be found at thrift and second hand stores, so keep your eyes open for those unique pieces.

I moved a floral print and a rope basket by the door. I have a faux air plant here and a chunk of coral on my books here. If you style your home as you would a vacation getaway, it will have that feel!

Don’t forget the kitchen. I love my black dishes and things, but for summer they go in the drawer and I pull out my Italian pottery bowls from Positano. Also helping with the holiday home feel are my travel souvenir tea towels, summer themed cookbooks, and a couple new plants with trailing vines. Don’t discount the produce section for decor. I love big bowls of summer peaches and apricots and baskets of tomatoes and pots of basil. They also make the kitchen smell amazing.

Give a summer welcome. Add fresh plants to your porch or entry to set the tone for your home. An easy care geranium or asparagus fern needs almost no effort and feels summertime pretty. I like extra baskets for your delivery packages or flip flops. If you need a mat, I love the look of a braided grass coir mat. You might consider adding a lantern or two with an automatic candle for that evening flicker.

I find if your treat you home like a holiday house, your summer days can feel like a vacation!

Summer home things I love…

Please go hop on over to these fab blogs and see what spring refresh ideas they have for your home. All of these women have such great ideas and style…


CARLA ASTON DESIGNED

CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN

CLASSIC CASUAL HOME

MOST LOVELY THINGS

Kim

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Weekend Meanderings – Spring Table Ideas, Hawaii Travel Essentials and More..

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It’s Weekend Meanderings time with Elizabeth and Juliet, and our chance to share some good things that have come to our attention this week! I hope yours has been good. Here’s what’s been on my brain..

Spring Table Ideas

Have you been thinking about Spring tables and gathering? Easter and Passover are on the same weekend this year and I am trying to plan my Easter brunch table setting ahead of time for once. I’m usually rummaging for my bunnies and tablecloths the day before… How old am I? I am still attempting to adult better at my age!

The last two years, we have been in the yard, but I think we can safely be inside with our small family, so in an effort to better adult, I just bought this lovely tablecloth from a great site called Furbish. They have many fun choices in tablecloths, and the quality is very good. How cute is this print for summer alfresco dinners as well?

I am still playing around with the mix of napkins and plates and thinking along the lines of soft pink and spring green colors using my mom’s pink Spode dishes she bought for Easter many years ago at Horchow. I will be thinking of her when I use them. I may add another one plate on top or green napkins.

They also have napkins and placemats in the same fabric. Check out Furbish for darling home things and spring table items! I love their whole site. Right now they have a 20% off all tabletop with code SPRINGREADY.

Also on my radar for Easter- the new gingham tablecloths from Serena & Lily. I love the baby blue and spring green colors. In case you missed them they are lovely. When I was a girl one Easter in the 70’s, I had a long pink gingham dress and I will always associate gingham with springtime!

Two years ago, at Easter, I used a vintage fabric remnant of my grandmother’s for the table with eggs, tulips and moss for the centerpiece.

I’m noodling the centerpiece, but loving the look right now of massed glasses or containers of flowers and plants..

Sue Bond and her tablescapes

The most gorgeous and inspiring tablescapes can be found on South African designer Sue Bond’s account. I found her through Cindy Hattersley, who had a great post here about her. Sue just moved to London and her house and tables are stunning. There really isn’t anyone comparable who has such fantastic style. More is more with Sue and it works. This is her Mother’s Day table in the U.K., but I think it could work for spring and Easter in a similar version of sorts.

You could do white vessels and vases, many small daisies or greens in pots. I love her bunny too and all the shades of green. It’s a lovely mix, not perfectly matched and how beautiful it is! Follow Sue’s gorgeous account and homes on her Instagram.

We just got back from a quick four night trip to the Big Island of Hawaii to celebrate Max’s 55th birthday. We really are so lucky to be so close in California and we arrived at 9:30 a.m. on a Friday after leaving here around 7:30 a.m. ,and the days there felt really long. It was just the right size getaway for two. We did a lot of reading, relaxing and just soaking up all the beauty there. I am still so thrilled with the flowers, the scents, and the amazing birds and nature every time we go.

I wrote more about what to pack for a trip to Hawaii last year when we did a larger family trip here, but on this kind of small jaunt, you just need some good basics- swimsuits, a couple of coverups, a hat a few sundresses and you’re set!

My essentials for short Hawaii trip..

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 sunscreen for the face is my new thing! This is all you need on an island getaway. I just gather my hair into a bun and wear just sunscreen most days. The aesthetician who did my facial in Hawaii, said she loves it for the glow, no white pallor and good ingredients.

Kai eau de Perfume, a cult classic and created to evoke the scent of creator Gaye Staza’s childhood in Hawaii, it has a tropical and gardenia scent and I love it for a trip there.

I ended up getting in this swimsuit from J. Crew, in Safari and is now on sale for $69 -(I’m tempted to get the peach too.) This suit is beautifully made and holds you in, but still looks sleek.

This BloqUV Sunblanket is something I use so much! It can be a pareo or laid it over my legs while I’m under an umbrella, or wrapped around my neck and shoulders when the sun gets too much. It has a cooling feeling and the SPF 50 blocks 98% of the UVA/UVB rays. I go nowhere in the sun without this. It folds up very small and can always be in your handbag too. There’s an array of colors to chose from.

Last year I bought a black Banana Republic hat that I have worn everywhere and now they have a new version. These hats are so nice and don’t crush with travel.

My little woven Pot du Miel from Claire V. is my favorite for nights out and I bring a strap if I want to take it on a day of exploring. It’s back in stock and this cutie comes in a couple new colors. It’s the perfect spring/summer evening bag and travel buddy. I pack my hat in my carry-on upside down and put this guy in the crown and stuff it with socks and small things, so they both keep their shapes.

A long white gauzy dress is a perfect item for coverup and evenings too. I like the new longer coverups and I noticed so many younger women are opting for long versions and larger hats too. I can’t find the same white one I have, but this J. Crew one is close and comes with a slip, or wear it without the slip and it’s a coverup- and it’s 50% off with code SPRING.

Eberjay has the prettiest nighties and one of these would be comfy and easy to pack and perfect for a warm destination.

Right before I left I was excited to get a mani/pedi for the trip in Ole Caliente from Essie! A fresh manicure was so nice after rarely getting them in the past couple years.

A great new show

I have just begun, As We See It, is about Jack, Violet and Harrison, three twenty somethings on the autism spectrum trying to figure out life, jobs and love. It’s funny and uplifting and the three main characters are played by autistic actors which I think lends to the authenticity of this show which has 93% on Rotten Tomatoes and can be found on Amazon Prime here.

Well that’s my meandering for this week now please pop over and see what great ideas my friends Elizabeth and Juliet have for you…

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Wishing you all a beautiful weekend, and thank you for being here!

Kim

If you missed the last Weekend Meanderings, on melon colors, a Magnolia Home for Target finds, a great blondie recipe and more, you can read the full post here.

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month! Thank you so much, as Bloglovin seems to have stopped working and I no longer post as much on Facebook and plan to do less there.

Some links may generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

Weekend Meanderings, Gallery Walls, A Pretty Tote & More..

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It’s Weekend Meanderings time with Elizabeth and Juliet, and our chance to share some cool things that have crossed our radars this week! Thank you for being here. I feel like I blink and we are here again and this week with the time change..WHY? But on to business..

Today I’m sharing a few tips on creating a gallery wall. When we did our home remodel, right before the pandemic, we removed the big interior wall to let more light flow from the front to the back of the house. Doing that left us with a long wall in the main living space. I wasn’t really sure how to deal with it, and for a good year or so, we left it blank. The idea of a gallery wall seemed to be a way to fill the long space with some personal pictures and art. My worry was how to make it look good?

Let me say I am slightly shy to share this as I am still tweaking it and filling the blank spaces, but I do think the overall tones and idea work for my white and earth toned house with black accents.

How to Create A Gallery Wall

-Find a statement piece for your center. I had a black and white art piece that was my focal point that I worked around.

-Gather other art or objects that can work with the main piece. For me, that was a San Francisco print of the Golden Gate, an ink drawing of a Victorian House, and a modern art print- all black and white and one with some tan.

-Choose 2-3 colors to go with to pull it all together. I kept it all black, white and tan or a light wood tones to unify these pieces.

-Add in family photos made to look arty. I had a cool vintage black and white photograph of my husband Max as a teen, taken by his mom for a photo class. Going with that cue, I used a photo of my boys as teens in a kind of surly (truly), pic from a vacation in France. It sort of looked like an album cover. I used the IPhone filter and changed it to black and white and did the same with photos of their faces. I cropped the pics to half their faces, and printed them all out on our regular printer. This is an easy trick and can make your photos look vintage and your wall will be unique and personal, but still look like ‘art.’

-Choose frames that pull it all together. Since all the photos were black and white, I went with a few in black, but mostly light wood frames from Target, to add an earthy, warmer feel and stay in our 3 color scheme.

-Collect your art and objects and lay them on the floor to find a harmonic look. I still felt the need for objects that were softer, so I added in a few woven discs . You could do this with round mirrors or anything that adds more texture and another shape to your grouping.

-Begin to replicate it on the wall starting with the largest object and work out from there. I used Command Strips for some things, but small nails for most, with my husband helping. Yes there were a few holes and pencil marks left, much trial and error to be honest.

-Remember this is a gallery look, so it doesn’t need to look perfect. Free form and and off-center is okay.. Perfectionists, this may not be the thing for you. It’s an organic look.

-Add to your gallery and change it up over time as your find new things. Just this past month I changed the main picture to this big black sea fan print. I also added in a new basket from World Market and removed another. I’m also going to enlarge some of the frames with the photos. Before the new pieces..

If you’re looking for wall baskets, Pottery Barn has this lovely collection, below.

I hope this helps! Have fun and give it a try.

My First Spring Dress Purchase

One thing I could use more for the warmer months is dresses that are easy and pretty. This FarmRio dress came in my email this week and I ordered it for a little getaway coming up. I loved the print and fortunately being 5’4 it didn’t swamp me and hit at ankle length in size small. It’s comfy and roomy and I think it will be a piece to wear for years to so much. The quality and fabric and pretty ties with beading, make it even more lovely in person.

A Pretty Tote

More pretty blues! I love the idea of a lightweight tote to take on vacation that can double as your day bag as well as at the beach. This H&M Jacquard tote fills the requirements, has a fun holiday vibe and isn’t some expensive bag that you need to worry about while you’re swimming, at the beach, or at the park with your kids. (It does kinda has the Dior vibe though!) I love the palm trees. I can see using this all spring and summer with sundresses and sandals and well everything.

OKA

Are you familiar with this wonderful British home decor site OKA? They have some beautiful things that would give your home some of that eclectic English vibe. I’m in love with this pouf, or floor cushion as they call it, in the prettiest pattern and lapis color. I just think it would be wonderful by the fire or just about anywhere you want to be able to put your feet up…

EXTRA STUFF..

I just bought this beautiful book, San Francisco Cocktails for the husband’s upcoming birthday. This is a beauty packed with history! Did you know San Francisco has a big connection with Lima, Peru, where most ships stopped coming through from the east around Cape Horn? The Ghiaradellis and others started there, and brought some traditions with them. This book has great photos and craft cocktails from the coolest SF restaurants and all the way down to the San Jose (yes you heard that right), and even Los Gatos. Definitely one for your bar or for that person who loves the Bay Area, San Francisco and it’s history.

I know a lot of you are Serena & Lilly fans and they just notified me that they extend their Spring Sale Event until next Tuesday, 3/22. You can get 20% off everything except sale. My friend just ordered this beautiful pendant for above her dining table.

I also have this version in my entry. A great time to get beautiful quality lighting or rugs.

If you’re in the market for pendants, Mary Ann of Classic Casual Home, wrote a great post this week,

13 Great Pendants to Update Your Kitchen. All of them are gorgeous, and she has some good advice as always!

Ukraine is on the top of my mind everyday and in Juliet’s post today she mentioned and linked to a Frontline documentary, Putin’s Road to War. I saw it this week and I can’t recommend it enough about the madman and how we got here. Please take the time to watch it. I also follow many Ukraine Accounts like Eyes on Ukraine with daily news on the situation from the ground, and the official account of Ukraine on Instagram, and NATO. Arnold Schwarzenegger made a 9 minute plea to Russians this week which we can only hope gets out to them, and I thought it was so good.

Thanks for being here. Please pop over and see what ideas my friends Elizabeth and Juliet have for you this week..

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Wishing you all a beautiful weekend, and thank you for being here!

Kim

If you missed the last Weekend Meanderings, on tennis clothes, entry rugs, a pretty home and more, you can read it here.

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month! Thank you so much, as Bloglovin seems to have stopped working and I no longer post as much on Facebook and plan to do less there.

Some links may generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

My New Office, Puffy Purses & Weekend Meanderings

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Hello and happy weekend. It’s our weekend round-up time with Juliet and Elizabeth and I’m sharing a few things that popped on my radar this week..

My little office space is finally done and thought I’d share. After a wait, my desk chair arrived and the whole thing came together pretty easily once I made the decision to make this small space my own. I had originally wanted this space, which was our former kitchen, to be a small conversation or game spot for my kids, but that really didn’t happen. Since it’s been sitting here kind of unused, except for when I popped in here and read, it really became the perfect spot for a small study. My friend April suggested it, and once it was in my brain, it took off from there.

It kind of began with the rattan bookshelf from Serena & Lily which fit in a small niche here, and then this rug, ordered last year, seemed perfect and whimsical. After Christmas, I finally went for it and bought a desk and a chair. All my personal favorite furniture pieces are in here -a cool piece of art, a couple of swivel chairs, a white lamp I love, and a rattan chair with a cozy throw so my co-worker, Ms Cat, can snuggle nearby. I have a little succulent plant in a white pot, a vase that holds my pencils and pens, and a tray for odds and ends. My shelf has some of my Domino magazine collection, rope baskets to hold cords, etc, and some of my favorite design books. I also have a pouf to rest my feet up on if I want!

My glass desk I chose to keep the area light and as it’s in front of my French doors. I wanted this one from Williams Sonoma, but after seeing the reviews and photos of this one from Living Spaces, I chose it for the slightly smaller size and quite a price difference. They also have a nearly identical one on Wayfair in two sizes. I was very happy with the heavy glass and sturdy frame. My desk chair was also pretty affordable and on sale now and I liked the sherpa look in here with my mix. It’s adjustable height and for me is perfect for support and sitting working many hours.

These are some of the pieces that I used in my office and I tried to add similar choices in other price points..

Clockwise from top left: Love this white lamp , white rope baskets (on sale), Serena & Lily denim rug (similar to mine), and this denim rug, another flatweave denim option, my Balboa bookshelf, this cane bookshelf, and this Pacific Bookcase, Studio McGee boucle pillow, and swivel chair (similar), Anthro vase/pencil cup.

It seems like this week flew by… and our kayak trip to Sausalito last weekend turned out to be a lot of fun. We just kind of meandered along the harbor and went down the house boat ‘streets’ which was great house gawking. Only a sea lion came near and most boats were out in the boat lane. Afterwards we had lunch at a darling spot called Le Garage right at the harbor and it was French bistro food with very a fun vibe, views of the boats, great music and people watching.

After lunch, we drove through Sausalito and it was bustling on a sunny February day. We vowed to go back soon and check out all the little spots with views of the city. If you haven’t been to Sausalito in a while, this is a lovely time of year to go. You can combine it with a kayak or a stroll across the Golden Gate and make a day of it. More photos are on my Instagram.

A story of a local Eichler remodel made its way into Elle Decor this week and this home is a beauty. Built in 1971 for a Stanford professor who was a friend of Eichler, it’s been updated by a new family with four young girls using the spaces in new ways, fresh colors and a mix of patterns and textures. It is so uplifting!

I think this sort of happy, eclectic interior is something we will be seeing a lot more of. People are in their homes much more now and we want light, bright and joyful, don’t you think? I’m sure the kids growing up here are loving it. The mom also sounds very cool and someone who just got a more unisex shoe- the ballet flat, added to the Emoji spectrum, so it’s not just a stiletto for women. I applaud that. The whole story and photos here. The interior was done by the talented Jessica Davis. You can follow her also on Instagram here.

As for fashion, I’ve been obsessing now on puffy bags-quilted ones particularly. I found this quilted tote at Bloomingdales and loved the shape and lightness. I didn’t know it was a dupe of a very expensive Khaite bag! Here I am wearing it -(used my son’s room.)

It also comes in a cream and a smaller cross-body version and other colors. I don’t know how to describe why it’s so appealing, but it has something of a generic chicness to it that I dig and I am tempted to get another.

This is the Khaite bag, nearly identical except it’s leather and this is vegan ‘leather.’

It’s also $2,300 vs $98.

I also noticed Frances Valentine has a version of a quilted ‘puffer’ bag too, and it’s quite cute.

I think these lightweight and easy bags will get even more popular as they feel like nothing to carry and a kind of label-less which I think people want more and more as the designer bag market is so over saturated.

Do you watch Vogue’s Beauty Videos? I love them and was excited to see Brooke Shields, who is also 56, on this week. She’s very real and it’s nice seeing people without their makeup. I can feel better about all my spots and blotches and I like her tips ..

I worked for 6 years in cosmetics at Nordstrom back when I was going to school and I still am a bit obsessed with skincare and makeup. I’m wondering if you all would be interested in some of my favorite skincare and makeup things if I do a post? I eventually left that job to do an advertising position, but continued to freelance and do makeup for weddings and a few events for a while. It was a fun time in my 20’s and I met so many cool people and learned loads about skincare and makeup… Perhaps more stories for another day!

Now please go see what great ideas my friends Elizabeth and Juliet have for you this week..

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

Have a beautiful weekend!

x Kim

You might also like : Signature Style: Leopard in the Wardrobe, our Signature Style post for the month was last Tuesday and a lot of fun.

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month! Thank you so much, as Bloglovin seems to have stopped working and I no longer post as much on Facebook and plan to do less there.

Some links will generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog

Last Minute Books and Other Good Things

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I know I am still sending a few last minute things that fell off my radar … I was surprised how many books can still be delivered before December 25 if you order today. I thought I’d do a roundup of my faves and a few new good ones that I want too!

Also, if you’ve got your head down and missed it, today is the last day for the additional 15% off the Sale items at Serena & Lily and two things I love are on it, this Tivoli Pillow Cover, just $79 plus the additional, and the Norfolk Bath Towels, which are beautiful quality and now $14-$29 and additional discount..Other good things to grab are the Cobble Hill Pillow and my Blake Console is too. Use the code CELEBRATE If you order by today you can get this FEDEX’ by the 24th, but I suspect most people would be buying for themselves.

Now onto the books.. I’m trying this boutique widget to make it easier for you to just click on the item. Let me know how this goes. And please below add any good book recommendations you have loved this year. I’ve added a lot of cookbooks as they are my favorites..

I hope things are going well this week. I’m running out to grab a few last things before rain begins here for a while.

I’ll be back soon with a Christmas or New Year’s dinner post idea for you!

Have a great day,

Kim

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month! Thank you so much, as Bloglovin seems to have stopped working and I no longer post as much on Facebook and plan to do less there.

Some links will generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

Friday Finds

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Happy October! Today just a quick post to share a few good finds I’ve had on my radar and mentioned on the gram in the past week. I haven’t done one of these for a while, so I thought I’d cull everything together in one crazy post!

So far I’ve only filled my Centerpiece Bowl from Crate & Barrel with gourds and little pumpkins on the island. Last year I had these guys in another wooden bowl.. I guess I sort of go with a similar theme, wooden containers always!

I’m getting excited for fall clothes and just bought this shirtdress at J.Crew. It’s now on sale which I missed. I love how they styled it here.. ( hard to see, but it has pin tucks.) I’ll report back when I receive it… I also bought this necklace…

In the interim, these corduroy shorts by Carve have been my go-to. Love them for fall days with sweaters and sweatshirts. I like the mid-rise and 4 inch inseam. They have a retro vibe and comfort I really love. I bought mine at REI, but I don’t see them there anymore, but they can also be found here at Amazon.

There are so many pretty colors I may get another pair. I like the thyme and tan and cinnamon shades. You can also buy them here at Title Nine where they also come in a longer 10 inch inseam.

I wore the shorts for day all over Tahoe last weekend. It was so nice to be back there again after two months of scary fires and smoky weather. It’s a beautiful time to go to Tahoe and they need the tourists badly. We did some bike rides and picnics and just enjoyed fall walks.

I wore the shorts with my Frame scalloped black sweatshirt – one of my favorite things.

Frame has a beautiful fall collection this year. Everything is chic, casual, and modern. The whole collection here. I want to add a few more pieces to my wardrobe. They are a bit more pricey, but beautifully made and classics with a twist.

While I was in Tahoe, I found these cute mugs for the cabin. I adore the Swiss Cross pattern for mountain homes and these mugs were at a shop in Truckee and , but can also be bought here.

Looking for them online, I found this cozy Swiss Cross throw I will get for the bottom of the guy’s beds at the cabin.. or maybe here at home. They are highly rated and come in a grey too. It’s a great look folded on a the end of a bed or on the arm of a couch.

Amazon does SOMETIMES have good things and occasionally I find stuff. Two other things I’ve loved from there lately..

One is these wooden beads that popped up when I was buying some floor cleaner! They looked nice and so I figured why not? They are surprisingly even cuter in person and I have them on a book stack in the media room..

My other new obsession from Amazon is this soap called Hand Ritual. Made in the CALIFORNIA! The bottles look great, smells light and lovely and my hands feel soft. My designer Debbie who did the space planning for the home brought the soap over when she took photos of the house and I was hooked. It’s also vegan, plant based and cruelty free. Looks cool in the guy’s bathroom..

I finally bought this book – Danielle Rollin’s A Home for All Seasons. I was looking for a book to inspire me with the holidays coming and this is a great one. Clearly most of us don’t have the funds she does to entertain, but I am finding the way she lives- the beautiful organization of the pantry and linen closet, along with the beautiful desk and stationery and pens something we could all do in our own way. Why not make every space lovely? This gets me motivated to make my house just as organized and pretty.

Don’t forget if you have been waiting on any Serena & Lily purchases they are having their big fall sale now, until October 5th. They are having 20% off most everything. I am buying a few more of their gorgeous towels. I have loved the softness, and quality so much! Two years later they are still soft and not fraying one bit. Use the code NEWSEASON until October 5th.

Have you all been watching more shows? Max and I have been getting into more since fall has come. We broke down and got Apple TV and it’s been worth it for Ted Lasso alone. That show has to be the most uplifting program I’ve ever watched – and who doesn’t need that now? I’m just trying to figure out how to get my dad to be able to watch it also. The Morning Show we have started and while not as upbeat, it’s full of good acting and fab homes and the wardrobes of Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon which I’m loving.

Remember this sweater from my jean posts? Well Mary Ann from Classic Casual Home just bought it in petite and she looks great in it with boots. I think it’s appealing with the flowers. It’s rare to see a nice cashmere sweater with a good print. A few other friends have bought it too. I just wanted to share cute Mary Ann’s way of wearing it. She bought it in a petite and it comes in plus and regular too.

I am sorry I’ve been slow posting the last month. I have been easing into fall, but have two posts coming in the next weeks- a cozy home collaboration and talking about leather- or faux leather, for Signature Style so stay tuned.

Have a beautiful autumn weekend !

Kim

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