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Weekend Meanderings – The California Look Book, Plaid Jackets, and the Legendary Nut Tree

October 15, 2022 By kimwheeler 51 Comments

On this Weekend Meander.. my fall front porch decor, more plaid jackets to consider, including Katie Holmes latest, organizing your jewelry, a Christmas jewelry tree project to prep for, a French hair product you’ll love, and revisiting the legendary design of California’s Nut Tree restaurant.

It’s that time of the week where I share all that is on my radar along with Juliet and Elizabeth! The week seems to have flown by as the college son was here and already off, but we had some fun doing a day trip to foggy Carmel, and a little shopping for new pants..and sneakers. I made cookies and we had a nice lunch out.. And now I’ve got laundry and a quiet house again.. I miss him, so I got busy with the porch and things..

It’s fall on the porch..

Yes, it’s halfway through the month of October, but I finally got my front porch the way I want it. It’s simple, but has a little autumn vibe. I found my mums at the local Ace Hardware and used these seagrass baskets from Target that usually house my hydrangeas. Even the cat came out to inspect it..

Benjamin Moore Florida Keys Blue Front Door paint

I bought a dried leaf wreath from our local florist, Bunches. I love that the leaves are real and preserved so hopefully it will last a few seasons. I also like that it’s pretty simple.

Benjamin Moore Florida Keys Blue Front Door paint

I thought the rust color would pop nicely with the door. So far, Max’s spider has stayed in the garage rafters.. I am hoping he forgot about it!

Jewelry Seasonal cleanout and trends…

Since we talked about cleaning out the closet for fall and two weeks ago the beauty cabinet, this week I am tackled my jewelry drawer! So many of us have piles of jewelry and rarely go through it. Since this season trends have a retro feel, it’s a good time to shop your own jewelry drawer first! I have some of my jewelry on my dresser top so I remember to wear it, and the rest in my top drawer. (Back in 2016 I wrote this post about having fun displaying your jewelry.)

jewelry displayed on statue on dresser

Go through what you have and separate by metals and then by type. I bought my velvet jewelry dividers at Homegoods a while back (similar ones here) and I love opening a drawer and seeing it all. If you can dedicate a drawer to your jewelry that is great. I have bigger necklaces on trays. This is also a cute holder if you don’t have a drawer.

velvet jewelry organized
jewelry chains organized
jewelry organized

I mentioned in my Signature Style Fall Edit post, I have been wearing a few pair of my mom’s hoops from the 80’s. I think they are made by Trifari and the others are Monet. Some of the older costume jewelry is fantastic quality, nothing like you find today.

Some of the newer trends are wearing many necklaces and bead necklaces along with your chains. Those 70’s and 80’s simple and twisted hoops our mothers wore non-stop are back also. I have also spotted vintage looking clips as well as dangly evening earrings with more tailored day looks… Whatever it is, if something speaks to you, dig it out and start wearing it again. Jewelry makes your look so have fun with it.

mixing my chains with beads..

Madewell and J.Crew have lots of classic looking hoops if you need a pair for fall..I particularly love these from Odette New York in brass made by hand for J. Crew.

The Jewelry Tree Project

Some of you may remember this Christmas tree made of costume jewelry that was my grandmother’s that I now treasure. I adore it and fixed it last year with a few vintage buttons and things where it had lost a piece or two. These are so beautiful and I get so many compliments on mine, I thought it would be fun to try and recreate one myself..

vintage Jewelry Christmas tree in frame

I’m not a crafty kind of person, but I have been obsessed with these vintage holiday jewelry trees and I thought it would be a fun project I can share in November, but we need to start collecting pieces for this now..

Last year when I shared my tree, I had some others share their own jewelry trees that they treasure. Some are gorgeous. This was a trend in the 60’s and 70’s and one family was lucky to have one made for each kid that I shared on my Instagram from BB Hamilton…

Jewelry Christmas tree in frame

They are unique things of beauty and could one day be an heirloom for your family… If you like the look of these, start looking for costume brooches, earrings and other bits that you might want to use in one of these. Buttons can work and any kind of jeweled bits..Check the local Goodwill or yard sales for pieces and start collecting.

The other thing you’ll need is a frame and some fabric you will want to do this on. Good choices are velvet, like my grandma’s or wool or other winter looking fabrics.

I will share more details in November when we can work on these, but start keeping your eye out now! You will find more inspiration and ideas on this Pinterest link and also here on Etsy where they are selling many vintage ones for a lot of money.

Jewelry Christmas tree in frame
Jewelry Christmas tree in frame

The California Look

I was a my local bookstore Kepler’s last weekend and spotted this beautiful book, The California Look. The book is the photography of Fred Lyons who knew Frances Elkins and Tony Hail, Michael Taylor and John Dickinson, who decorated with fresh modern looks in the post-war era, specifically, Northern California. I did know about Michael Taylor and his influence, but did not know as much about the others. This book is a peek into those beautiful homes.Many are from Atherton, Woodside, San Francisco and wine country.. One is even from Sugar Bowl!

I’m especially a fan of Michael Taylor’s beautiful aesthetic which is bright, light and mixes modern and natural elements so perfectly.. Do these not look like a home from today?? The man was ahead of his time. If you’re a Northern Californian, or just a fan of California casual with elegance, you will adore this book!

More plaid jackets

Alex Mill plaid jacket

This week I spotted a stunning fall plaid jacket at Nordstrom.. If you’re still looking for a lovely piece for the fall wardrobe to give everything that Ralph Lauren vibe, this jacket by Alex Mill is gorgeous and I can attest to it’s quality. I tried it on and love the way this feels on, not stiff or heavy, with a lovely cream lining with stripes you can turn up. It’s not cheap, but it’s one of those pieces you’d have in the wardrobe forever..

Alex Mill plaid jacket silk lining
Alex Mill plaid jacket at Nordstrom

I tried it on quickly as we were shopping for the son.. This was a small which was perfect and I am usually a size 8.

I ordered this Madewell one and it’s on the way, so if I don’t totally love it, I’ll return it for this Alex Mill one.

Katie Holmes was spotted recently in a plaid jacket..always giving the cool girl vibe with her under the radar pieces.and I love that! Not a label in sight on this girl.

Katie’s blazer is by Reformation, a sustainable brand that uses old stock material. I also love that.

katie holmes in Reformation  plaid jacket

Phyto 7 Hair Creme

Years ago when I worked in the beauty department at Nordstrom, I used to be the rep for the French haircare line, Phyto. I grew to love this plant based line that had a cult following. I had forgotten about it, and recently found it again!

Phyto 7 french hair creme

Some products were so popular, and hard to get people would come in and buy 12 tubes of their favorite, and back then, this stuff wasn’t cheap. Most popular were the Phyto Defrissant, for curly haired people, and Phyto 7 and Phyto 9, which are hair cremes you leave in after your regular wash/condition.

Phyto 7 was my favorite as I have fine, colored and damaged hair and it made a huge difference. The best way to describe it would be that your hair can have the shine and luster a child’s hair does. Phyto 9 is a heavier version for people with thicker, coarser dry hair.

I use about a dime size in my wet hair mainly on the ends and on the front strands when it’s towel dried and them comb through to distribute. It’s also perfect for a travel bag when you don’t know what kind of products you’ll find or if you must deal with a hotel blow drier from hell.. This stuff makes your hair look and feel beautiful. I also love to work it in and just let air dry sometimes! Phyto also has a sun line and the after sun shampoo is wonderful to take on a vacation. You can find the whole line here.

The lost age of the Nut Tree

If you are Northern Cal native near my age, you may remember the original Nut Tree roadside stop that once stood where the current hideous block of big box stores and fast food stops called the Nut Tree, now exists off Highway 80. The original fruit stand, which was very special, began in 1921, and was later transformed by the family and a visionary designer in the 50’s.  In 1978, the San Francisco Chronicle called the roadside attraction an “oasis of taste.”

The Nut Tree original menu
The original Nut Tree menu designed by Don Birrell

I am often wistful for the original stop, as it was a memorable kind of wonderland on the way to Lake Tahoe from the Bay Area. My husband especially remembers the train and the small airport and airplanes that hung from the ceilings.. He does not remember the details I did, but it was designed to be a full on experience, from the plates to the food, as well as the beautiful architecture and furniture.

The Nut Tree dining room 1970s

I recently came across an article about how this roadside marvel came to be in Sactown Magazine, by writer Leilani Marie Labong, and the history behind it is fascinating. The original Power family who owned it, found visionary graphic artist Don Birrell, a graduate of CalArts in LA, where many of the Disney illustrators like Mary Blair emerged, to help them create this nirvana. Birrell’s vision was implemented in every way, from the Eames furniture, to the flowers (the whole Nut Tree design was a forerunner to ‘flower power’), to how the tables were set and even how the food was arranged for recipes.

The menu was ahead of it’s time, with it’s own orchard, and very farm-to-table. According to the article:

The Nut Tree’s farmers tended 200 acres of fruit orchards and row crops to supply the onsite food programs, and in fact the train ride skirted this farmland on its route between the toy store and the airport. In 1978, former New York Times food editor Raymond Sokolov called the Nut Tree a “crucible of California style” and “the region’s most characteristic and influential restaurant.” 

Sactown Mag

As a kid, one of the fun parts of a stop there, was taking the train to see the airport and back to the toy store. The gift shop even sold the Eames chairs from the restaurant and the Dansk dishes that were used.. There was also a candy store and a cookie stand where you could buy cookies as big as your head made from the family’s honey cookie recipe. I remember begging my mom for one and I think the answer was usually no..

The Nut Tree cookies 1970s

The Nut Tree was what happens when you care enough to put thought into all the choices of a business. It’s so rare to see such a thing in today’s world of fast food and chain restaurants.

The Nut Tree gift Shop
The Nut Tree, 1958 – 1989 -Notice the kitchenware display on the wall.. Why does this remind me of Small World in Disneyland?

I wish there to be more places like this. Maybe it’s because I am a design obsessed person, but I know for many, the Nut Tree stays on in our minds. It’s a shame it’s gone forever, but the wonderful details, some that I never even imagined, live on in this beautiful piece that is a tribute. The writer Lelani Marie Labong won an award for it.

The Nut Tree airport

Does anyone else remember this magical spot? I wish my kids could have experienced it!

You can also buy the Nut Tree book, by one of the Power children, available at the Vacaville Museum and here.

The Nut Tree book

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 and I hope your weekend is great!

Kim

If you missed last weekend’s post , I shared some new things I’ve added to the house this season, folding screens, puffy purses, a gorgeous book on home, and a way to help more people vote.

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.

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Filed Under: Uncategorized, weekend meanderings

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. La Contessa says

    October 15, 2022 at 5:51 am

    Hair product!!!
    Did you hear me yesterday having a conversation with myself?!!!Thinking I should chat with my hair lady about something to put on this head that is taking it’s time to turn GREY!!
    Which number would you recommend for me!?
    I will make that purchase!
    Nut Tree …….
    Memories too of driving to Tahoe!We didNOT stop often as it was not even half way from where I grew up but I do recall the train but not the airport!I have something from there that I found in my days of being a vintage/ antique dealer!!!!
    It is a small round cutting board that I just Loved as it brought back those memories!With the Tree Logo and name!
    My Mother Never wore Hoops!!!
    But I am much older than YOU♥️
    Xxx

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:34 am

      Elizabeth, I would start with the 7, unless you feel your hair is really coarse and thick and curly…and I don’t think it is. You can even use when it’s dry. I know we did not go to the Nut Tree as much as I would have liked as it wasn’t cheap and we often had sandwiches that we ate at the old rest stops.. remember those? Hold onto the Nut Tree souvenir! They had a show at the Vacaville Museum and it may still be on, with a lot of that stuff! All was specially designed! xo

      Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:35 am

      Oh yes my mom was a big 70’s person with bell bottoms, hoops and all that! She lived in jeans…but was extremely neat and stylish. x

      Reply
  2. Jackie says

    October 15, 2022 at 7:28 am

    Let us know about that Madewell blazer…I am iffy on the brand so curious. Funny you mentioned phyto …used to be my splurge hair products. I got my hair cut early 90s at the hot salon at the time …Pipino Buccheri on Madison ave in NYC and they were aghast at my long permed and highlighted hair lol. They were like never do both! You can’t perm and do bleach! Needless to say they chopped all my hair off and sent me out the door with Phyto products and a Mason Pierson brush. I went home and cried my eyes out but came to terms with it and styled it straight like they did and it was a turning point for me as it looked so much better. I used to use the spray which came in a small brown hard plastic bottle. Can’t remember what it did or name but it had a unique scent. I used phyto 7 to get my hair super straight I believe … moved away from it because it was only sold in certain stores and not easy to get. Online shopping has changed all that so I will have to revisit. Thanks for the flash back moment! Also the nut shop looks like a wonderful place to have experienced.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:31 am

      Hi Jackie! I will report back.. it feel like it’s on a slow boat.. Been waiting a while for it.

      Oh my gosh what a story about the salon in NYC! I can just see that as we all had permed and bleached hair at some point ..I like how they were about healthy hair with the good brush and the Phyto products! Yes they still sell the hairspray too.. and a volume spray which was fantastic before others had them. I bet it was that. It’s called Phytovolume. I know hard to find this now and so excited they had it online. Thanks for sharing the story!

      Reply
  3. Linda says

    October 15, 2022 at 8:30 am

    Oh my gosh have you brought back memories.
    My high school boyfriend had his private pilots license and we used to fly up to the Nut Tree for lunch. The train ride was always a treat. I agree with you that there aren’t many places left to inspire.
    I remember the old Wisteria in Santa Cruz when the majority of the inventory was imported. We couldn’t wait to get there to shop. I still love it now with their new, clever merchandise and plants.
    Thank you for your blog, you are very informative and write about things I’m interested in.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:27 am

      Linda that is such a great story! And a high schooler flying a small plane to lunch! Wow you guys were living large. I don’t even know if that could happen now. Love that.
      I didn’t know Wisteria has changed! Would be fun to know more about that.. the history and those houses with all the merchandise.
      Aw thanks so much. I find things that I hope are interesting and fun. xo

      Reply
  4. Wren says

    October 15, 2022 at 8:40 am

    Such good meandering, musing and memories this morning! First, your front porch looks great with that pop of orange in the wreath and kitty photo bombing, since it’s black, was purrfect (excuse the bad pun). Last winter, I ordered a houndstooth check oversized blazer from JCrew. It took forever to get since it was apparently coming from an outside source. It’s by Moon, of Quality British cloth and at a size 4 kind of overwhelmed me. But I liked it well enough that I took it to be tailored and I’ll be happy to have it this year since I think I’ve only worn it once. The Nut Tree…..as soon as I read those words, I thought cookie! Isn’t it funny that’s what I remember about that iconic place. I think I must have been younger than you when I was there since that’s what stuck when I think of that place that seemed to be out in the middle of nowhere. Thanks for the round up of topics; you always find interesting things to share.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:24 am

      Thanks so much Wren! I know the cat was an unexpected bonus. Ooh I have to look up Moon! Sounds like a cool blazer.. You have a good eye for those special pieces. I love that your association with Nut Tree was the cookies..They must have been good. I know they were pretty- and huge! Thanks Wren xo

      Reply
  5. Linda says

    October 15, 2022 at 9:25 am

    Awwww the Nut Tree! Fond memories of this unique and magically spot, sadly nothing of the caliber exists today, thanks for sharing.
    Love your porch!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:22 am

      Thanks Linda! I know wish there was still something like that!! Maybe one day.

      Reply
  6. Dawn Lucy Ross says

    October 15, 2022 at 9:40 am

    Oh my gosh, The Nut Tree! So many memories! I loved playing in the little raised huts! Love your post and especially the classic plaid blazers! SOOO good!!!

    OXOX
    Dawnn

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:21 am

      Dawn, so cool you remember that! I don’t recall the huts! I will ask Max if her does. Thanks aren’t the plaid blazers cool? xo

      Reply
  7. Carla Aston says

    October 15, 2022 at 9:41 am

    My aunt had a jewelry tree, it was on a styrofoam cone base, at 2 feet tall. When she got older that was the only Christmas tree she put up but it was so charming. Love these!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:20 am

      Carla, I love those ones on the styrofoam too! I would love to try and make one. They were selling them at a Christmas fair at our Filoli estate here a few years back and some were literally going for $1,000!! Hoping I’ll need less jewelry for the framed version..

      Reply
  8. Sarah says

    October 15, 2022 at 9:44 am

    I may have to try Phyto. I haven’t colored my hair since December 2019 but the transition to gray is going slowly. And painfully. In my mind I still have stick-straight light brown hair, but in a certain light I can see the wiry gray hairs of every length sprouting out, like a Medusa halo. Yikes.
    Great article on The Nut Tree! Wish I could have seen the place. My family lived in Concord 1964-65, and I remember seeing the signs.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:19 am

      Sarah, That is so great you’ve gone natural. You might love the Phyto as you can smooth it over dry parts of the hair too without weighing it down too much. Yes the Nut Tree was the coolest..

      Reply
  9. Bibi says

    October 15, 2022 at 10:04 am

    Ah the Nut Tree…I remember peacocks in the glassed-in aviary in the dining room. So cutting edge at the time! It was a regular stop driving home from skiing in Tahoe. As a kid I don’t think I appreciated it enough

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:17 am

      Bibi, They wrote about the aviary! It sounds amazing…I wish I remember better. We stopped on the way back from Tahoe too.

      Reply
  10. Judee Biggles says

    October 15, 2022 at 10:36 am

    I fondly remember The Nut Tree on our way up to Tahoe. Our daughter loved the train and the giant cookies! When she went ofc to college, I started a southwestern food business (Santa Fe Savories) and the Nut Tree bought my products. I did many demos there, and a wonderful company to work for.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:14 am

      Judee wow how cool is that? I love that you did business with them. I heard they were very selective. In this article, Dole said they set the standard for all the pineapples they sold.. They had to be Nut Tree quality, so your Savories must have been a high caliber! Are you still selling? What a wonderful story. Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
  11. Laura says

    October 15, 2022 at 11:50 am

    Kim, how is the fit for the Alex Mills jacket? It looks boxy but not too long. Love the plaid but trying to avoid an oversized look.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 11:52 am

      Laura, I would say it’s classic..not oversized to me. That photo was a small, so it’s not tight. I am usually an 8 and it gave me room to have a sweater under it too. Length was good for myself. I am 5’4 and 135ish. Hope that helps! Lovely workmanship and material..

      Reply
  12. Beth says

    October 15, 2022 at 1:23 pm

    Kim! So very glad you posted about the incredible article on the Nut Tree – what a flash from the past. Our family stopped there countless times over countless years, and in fact would sometimes just hop in the car and drive up there for fun. We lived in Orinda, not too far away, so no need to use going to Tahoe as an excuse. It really was an extravaganza, wasn’t it? I remember the airport very well, the train, the food, the toy store. All such vivid memories. By the way, the Vacaville Museum sells a fun cookbook called, “The Nut Tree Remembered”, which really brought the menu back to me…… Again, many thanks. Have shared this with many people – all Nut Tree fans.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 5:14 pm

      Beth how wonderful! Love that you guys were so close to go for the day. It really was an experience wasn’t it? It lives on in my mind like Disney sort of..and I wish my kids could have had a day there.. Thank you I will also check out the book from the museum. They had a great exhibit last year and I wish I had gotten there. I had no idea! Aww and thank you for taking the time to comment and share!

      Reply
  13. m in HI says

    October 15, 2022 at 1:48 pm

    Came over from Juliet’s blog.
    Favorite Nut Tree treats- the taffy bars on a stick. Gosh I wish I had a physical picture. We would enjoy the chocolate or the strawberry ones. Also the mini loafs of bread such a unique item before the public could purchase the mini loaf pans themselves. Thanks for bringing up such fond memories.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 5:11 pm

      The taffy bars sound so yummy! Hearing about the mini bread in the loafs brought back a memory of seeing those too. Oh thank you too for coming over and leaving this note! So love hearing these memories..

      Reply
  14. Mary-Ellen Krull says

    October 15, 2022 at 1:53 pm

    Kim,
    You always have the most interesting things for us!
    I have some “costume jewelry” from my mother and some items if my own that would work for the framed Christmas tree. Maybe I will get inspired to put one together as it looks like it would be fun.
    The Alex Mills jacket is lovely. I usually wear a 10-12 which would be the L but it looks like you sized down. It is worth a try since Nordstrom has free shipping and returns. Let us know what you think of the Madewell one!
    One of the inconveniences of living in a small coastal NC town is that shopping is almost impossible. All the stores I bought from previously are two hours away. Good thing I am planning to wear what I have (with a few exemptions) this season.
    Thanks for a great post!
    Mary-Ellen Krull

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 5:05 pm

      Hi Mary Ellen! Yes hold onto those jewelry pieces. This may be a wonderful way to keep them used in a special way.. that can last a long time!
      The Alex jacket I was surprised the small size fit.. at least I thought it was small. It does say relaxed fit so I think you might be medium.. I’m still waiting on the Madewell one. I can’t wait and the weather is turning cool..yay. I had no idea your shops were so far away from your town. That is hard and you probably rely on online shopping more..xo

      Reply
  15. Lisa says

    October 15, 2022 at 2:13 pm

    I bought that Madewell jacket and I love it. It is very versatile, can be dressed up or down. If you decide to keep it, Madewell has a ribbed turtleneck in the color ‘castle rock’ that looks really good under it. Gives it a distinct Ralph Lauren look.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 4:59 pm

      Lisa so happy to hear that! I can’t wait to get mine and am heading over to the look for the castle rock turtleneck! Sounds perfect. xo

      Reply
  16. Donna says

    October 15, 2022 at 4:11 pm

    Loved this post Kim! I ordered the Madewell blazer because of your last weeks post. It looks so good! I really hope it fits well, Ive already decided to have it tailored if it doesn’t. Love the colour! Ive been collecting bits and pieces for a jewelry tree. I think they are just beautiful! Thrilled to think others are doing it too. I thought I might be a fuddy dutty to want one. Really enjoy your blog and am amazed by the variety of topics you write about. So enjoyable!thank you!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 15, 2022 at 4:58 pm

      Donna I love the color too and I hope it looks great. I’m waiting patiently for mine too..Yay I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought Christmas trees made of vintage jewelry were cool! Aww there is a mixed bag here right? Glad it’s fun… and thanks so much!

      Reply
  17. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    October 15, 2022 at 6:09 pm

    Kim,
    First I have to start with The Nut Tree! I have never heard of this magical wonderland but oh I know I would have loved it. Those cookies!!!! Someone please tell me that they had one and it was delicious. What an amazing and enchanting place, you are so right, way ahead of its time.
    Your porch is perfection! Love the simplicity and the fall colors against the blue of your door.
    Plaid!!!! You know me, I love plaid. I have lots of plaid blazers but can never get enough of them. I am off to check out the ones that you found.
    As for the jewelry tree, my mother-in-law made one of those in the 60’s and she gave it to me, it is one of my prize possessions! I cannot wait to get it out and take a picture to share with you!
    Hope you are having a wonderful day! xo Elizabeth

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 16, 2022 at 5:41 pm

      Elizabeth doesn’t it sound like a wonderland? It kind of was a small Disneyland without the rides. You have to share that jewelry tree with me when you can! Have a great week. xo

      Reply
  18. Juliet says

    October 15, 2022 at 6:16 pm

    Kim! So many things to discuss. The Nut Tree! I loved it too. It was a definite marker of the distance from or to home on road trips to Tahoe and beyond. My mother lived for the Nut Tree, but I don’t recall the detail like you do. Just a feeling of great excitement to be driving by the big sign or better yet making a stop. My mom made an annual Christmas shopping pilgrimage with friends. But always during the week so I missed. Was the Candle Factory located there? I think so but can’t recall. Speaking of nostalgia. Money jewelry. It’s not around anymore, right. It used to be so prominent in all the department stores. I love your Christmas jewelry tree and wish I still had my grandmother costume jewelry to create one of my own. I just bought the California Look book this week too. We’re on the same wavelength. Great post today …. so many fascinating topics and there’s not enough room to comment on them all. xo

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 16, 2022 at 5:40 pm

      Juliet, That must have been a fun spot to go for lunch and shopping with friends for your mom. Yes someone else said there was a candle factory there..
      Mooney jewelry was cool.. Should we discuss? I still have some.. The California Look book is great..As Bay Area gals it’s right up our alley. Most all the homes are from there. xo

      Reply
  19. Michelle says

    October 16, 2022 at 8:22 am

    The Nut Tree! Such great memories, I can’t even put the right words together.
    My Dad was an Airman, and after he retired many of his buddies were still stationed at Travis. We were in Vacaville every weekend with families whose loved ones were in Vietnam. Large groups of us would go to the Nutree for happy distraction. And it sure was. I still remember one performer in the gazebo area who we all loved, Mike Iseberg (I hope that’s spelled right!) We would buy our cookies and rock sugar sticks and dance the early evening away.
    We usually ended up at Pietro’s pizza parlor afterwards, where we wrote to the POW family’s whose bracelets we wore. The Nutree provided so much joy and distraction. I’m buying the book now!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 16, 2022 at 5:38 pm

      Michelle, Thank you so much for sharing this. I had no idea it was such a gathering spot..but it seems natural if someone was a pilot! It was so good that this little spot provided a diversion in what was some fraught times right? You wrote to the families of the POW’s? Wow. Times I am sure you will never forget. Thank you so much for sharing this. Now it seems even more special a spot!
      And I remember those rock sugar sticks!

      Reply
  20. Linda Salazar says

    October 16, 2022 at 11:21 am

    Love the jewelry Christmas tree! So unique…I only have a few pieces of my mom’s jewelry (mostly costume) but I did have a diamond from her old wedding band made into a solitaire necklace. I wear it most of the time.
    Love the blazer on you. I had a black and white houndstooth jacket years ago in the 80’s. I remember it was $150 at Saks and I did not tell my ex how much it cost. My boss at the time used to call it “my horse blanket”. 🤣
    Linda

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 16, 2022 at 5:33 pm

      Linda that was a great idea making her solitaire into a necklace! I made one of those diamonds on a string necklace with my mom’s anniversary band. I also wear mine every day. It makes me feel close to her.
      Isn’t that blazer perfection? I remember the black and white houndstooth jackets being popular and had one with shoulder pads.. Yours must have been nice one. Horse blanket? He sounds like a few guys I once worked with! xo

      Reply
      • Linda Salazar says

        October 16, 2022 at 9:58 pm

        Love your necklace idea too! My blazer had shoulder pads too. I had another wool blazer in sort of a mustard/gold color. The same boss asked if I started working for Century 21 real estate. Remember their jackets?? It was all in fun but he loved to comment on my clothing. But it was the 80’s so I guess I understand, I can’t believe some of the things I wore back then! I bought a lot of clothes at The Limited around that time.

        Reply
        • kimwheeler says

          October 18, 2022 at 3:35 pm

          OMG Linda you are brining back a joke my friends used to call me realtor when I wore my mustard jacket to work in the 80s! Oh gosh I had forgotten about the Limited! That was the place wasn’t it?

          Reply
  21. Karen H. says

    October 16, 2022 at 4:01 pm

    Oh my gosh, The Nut Tree! Kim you are a jewel for bringing us this great article with pictures.. So many memories of fun times going there. We lived in Walnut Creek and would make a day out of it. Loved to have a late lunch or early dinner. My kids were very young at the time and would beg for the cookies; I think they only got them when their grandparents splurged on them. They always loved to ride on the little train. I would love to peruse the home decor area and I would buy a cookbook or some cute kitchen item, or the mini loaf breads. My husband and I spent time reminiscing yesterday after seeing your article. Thanks for the wonderful memories! P.s. Yes, there was also a candle shop at that location

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 16, 2022 at 5:29 pm

      Karen wasn’t it special? I love that you made a day of it. The home area looks so neat..I wish there was something even close to it now. I’ll tell Juliet about the candle shop too. I’m happy to hear it brings good memories to you too!

      Reply
  22. cindy says

    October 16, 2022 at 6:44 pm

    Kim, I love learning about the history of the Nut Tree!! I must get that book about Michael Taylor etc. It sounds wonderful, Love the houndstooth blazer too. As always a fabulous post!!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 18, 2022 at 3:33 pm

      Cindy it was such a speidcal place and a real bummer it is gone. I think you will love the California book. xo

      Reply
  23. Gray says

    October 17, 2022 at 7:11 am

    Thanks for the heads up on the Phyto products. I might try #7 – I have very straight hair that gets platinum highlights every 5 weeks. I do love another line from France – Avéne. I also love your chains/beads mix. At this point, I the only delicate necklace I ever wear is a necklace with my son’s initial, because “I feel bad about my neck…” 😉
    Great Post!

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 17, 2022 at 2:09 pm

      Grat, I think you’ll love the number 7! I also love Avéne products! The face balm for sensitive skin is so good… and the water spray.
      Thanks I just got that lovely necklace from Cindy and the beads are super old from a gift shop in the Sacre Coeur in Paris! Isn’t that funny? I just dug them out. I also hate my neck.. xo

      Reply
  24. Kelley Wright says

    October 17, 2022 at 11:48 am

    Yes, the Nut Tree! My sister and I always looked at it to and from Tahoe. We would stop every once in a while, but that was a huge treat. We never got to eat there, but did get to see the attractions and browse the shops.

    Reply
    • kimwheeler says

      October 17, 2022 at 2:07 pm

      Kelley, I’m not sure if we ever ate in the nice cafe either.. But we did stop and get treats and ride the train! I still remember going to Tahoe with you guys and the cute A-frame we stayed in. Great memories riding a horse and walking to the sore for ice cream with you. Hope all is well. xoxo

      Reply

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A quick chat about summer sandals and accessories. A quick chat about summer sandals and accessories. Yesterday I was at @toryburch and picked up a few pieces I’ve had my eye on for my summer capsule. All of them will be great for travel too. Tory does accessories so well and there were too many cute things. 😍

Since Cindy and I just did our Signature Style sandal posts, this clip has some tips for what to think about when choosing a sandal to your summertime closet mix.

If you haven’t checked out our posts, the link to my ‘Summer Sandal Edit’ is in my bio. And on Saturday’s weekend blog, I’ll share these pieces and some similar ones in different price points. 

#sandalseason #summeraccessories #toryburch #summersandaledit #sportsandals
On this month’s Signature Style, Cindy and I are On this month’s Signature Style, Cindy and I are talking all about sandals as it’s June… I know it doesn’t feel like it though!

I am sharing my summer sandal edit and I picked some of the best in strappy black sandals, which look so chic with white jeans or simple sundresses. I also found, some very comfortable and cute, modern slip ons as well as the new offerings in linen and other cool materials from Birkenstock. Of course, I couldn’t leave out espadrilles which are always a favorite and have that French holiday feel. 

Hop on over to our blogs and see what we’ve got for you. It’s a great time to add at anew sandal to your summer capsule and give everything an updated feel. 
As always links are in our bios and stories..
@northerncalstyle 
@cindyhattersley

#summersandaledit #sandalseason #summerstyle #signaturestyle #madewell #birkenstock #californiastyle
A little reel of the pretty @bernarduslodge in Car A little reel of the pretty @bernarduslodge in Carmel Valley. We try and get here at least twice a year for a little weekend retreat. 

It’s in the perfect location as you can enjoy all the charms of Carmel -and soak up the sunshine while you’re at the resort just up the road from the coast. The rooms, pools, gorgeous gardens, and mountain views are soothing. It’s my happy place and if you are near Carmel, I can’t recommend it enough. 

#carmelvalley #carmel #carmeltravel #centralcoast #bernarduslodge #northerncalifornia #northerncalstyle
On the weekend blog I shared my favorite summer gr On the weekend blog I shared my favorite summer green salad. It’s the traditional with a few twists to make it have more flavor and crunch. A nice option for a Memorial Day barbecue if you’re having one today.. Link with details in bio.
@northerncalstyle 

We had houseguests and now a free day, but the weather has been dark and cool for this summer kick off.. 😕 Hoping you all get some time to enjoy this extra day off. 

I am thinking today of all those who gave their lives for our nation and democracy. ❤️ Their families are especially on my mind. 

#summersalad #californiatable
On the Weekend blog.. a @rails Summer capsule! I b On the Weekend blog.. a @rails Summer capsule! I brought some of these beautiful pieces with me on our weekend away in Carmel and loved how well they all work together!
More deets on the blog plus where we stayed and some pretty snaps of Carmel in bloom.

Don’t forget to visit my pals Elizabeth and Juliet too.

 Our links as always, in our bios or stories:
@northerncalstyle 
@makemineaspritzer 
@pineconesandacorns

Have a beautiful weekend .
This is a perfect time for a trip to Carmel-Monter This is a perfect time for a trip to Carmel-Monterey Bay as everything is blooming and the magic carpet in Pacific Grove is at its peak beauty! 

The beautiful flowers in the charming towns and the on cottages make it such a treat to visit. We had a fun two days and I’ll do another little reel on our pretty hotel in Carmel Valley. 

Have you been to Carmel in the springtime? It’s a bucket list item! 🌸

#carmelbythesea #carmel #pacificgrovemagiccarpet #pacificgrove #montereybay #ourgoldenstate #visitcalifornia #flowerstagram #californiadreaming
I splurged and bought myself this pretty planter f I splurged and bought myself this pretty planter for my favorite plant. This is from @beachwoodhome in Carmel which has beautiful things. It’s in the Carmel Plaza and I always love popping in there to see what’s new when I’m down there.

This plant is a peperomia plant which is so easy to keep alive! Yay. It loves to grow in cool shapes and needs just a few ice cubes here and there..

Hope you’re all having a good start to the week! 

#easyplants #houseplantsofinstagram #bluepottery #carmelbythesea #californialiving
Have you been to Tahoe in the summer? It’s just Have you been to Tahoe in the summer? It’s just magic. These are a few snaps of my Tahoe look, but on the blog I have more ideas and great pieces for you to consider when planning a summertime getaway there. 

You will find it’s very relaxed with an old school charm. Chill is the vibe and it’s all about comfort and California casual. Tahoe is all about enjoying the incredible nature and beauty up there! 

Find it all on my what to pack post with six of my friends sharing their destinations too..
Link in bio @northerncalstyle 
More on stories also!

#tahoe #laketahoe #whattopack #californiatravel #californiatrip #westshorelaketahoe #lakelife #oldschoolsummer #ourgoldenstate #californiadreaming #visitcalifornia
Hard to believe it’s almost summer, and are you Hard to believe it’s almost summer, and are you all ready for a vacation ?  I have the perfect blog for you today..a fun collaboration with six others, sharing their packing tips and outfits from their special spots in the country.. We’ve got Tahoe, Napa, Valley, Paso Robles, Santa Cruz, Florida, New York City, and North Carolina! 

These packing lists and outfit ideas plus favorite spots not to miss, make these posts savers! 

My blog is what to pack and what to wear for summertime in Tahoe- which I can’t wait for. 💙

All our posts are linked in our bios.. 
me/Tahoe @northerncalstyle 

Annie/New York City @most_lovely_things 

Juliet/Napa Valley @makemineaspritzer 

Dawn/SantaCruz @fashionshouldbefun 

Cindy/PasoRobles @cindyhattersley 

Elizabeth/North Carolina @pineconesandacorns 

Mary Ann/Florida @classiccasualhome 

See what my friends recommend to pack and do for your summer getaways! 

#packingtips #whattopack #travel #traveltipsandtricks #tahoetravel #californiatravel #ourgoldenstate
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mamas and to all t Happy Mother’s Day to all the mamas and to all those who mother and nuture! 💐I hope everyone is getting appreciated and spoiled today.. I spent some time at a lovely lunch with the family yesterday and am enjoying the garden today.. except for the hurricane winds! 

I can’t wait until my youngest Griffin is back home for a bit from college. My favorite days are the ones when we are all together as a family again.  I love being with Jackson and Griffin more than anything and they just make me laugh so much!  I feel so lucky to have very kind sons …except they make me feel so short 🤣..and I couldn’t be prouder. 💛
On the blog today.. How to style white denim!  I’m excited to partner with some lovely ladies today and we are all sharing our ways to wear the closet classic- white jeans! 

I am showing what I’ve been wearing lately and some of my favorite pairs as well as a few cool options that have come on my radar!  It’s all about finding what works for your body and choosing the right fabric etc.. 

Are you a white jean fan??

Please visit my friend’s blogs ..All our posts are linked on our bios..
@northerncalstyle - me!
@most_lovely_things - Annie
@classiccasualhome -Mary Ann
@cindyhattersley - Cindy
@sherryhdesigns - Sherry
@lavieongrand - Noelani

#whitedenim #whitejeans #whitejeansoutfit #whitejeanstyling #whitejeansforever #whitejeanseason #californiastyle
If you miss the weekend post and still need some M If you miss the weekend post and still need some Mother’s Day gifts I have some fun ideas for you.. I love market totes- especially with flowers in them, beautiful wraps, some inspiring books for summer living, and a few other little luxuries.. 

If you need some local fun, I will be a the Palo Alto @Rails store on Saturday where they are having a Mother’s Day event with 20% off and a gift with purchase! Stop by and say hi.

Pop on by my blog post for all the details and more gift ideas… 

Don’t forget to visit my friends, Juliet and Elizabeth if you miss their weekend posts too..
 Our links as always, in our bios or stories:
@northerncalstyle 
@makemineaspritzer 
@pineconesandacorns

#mothersday #mothersdaygift #giftideasforher #californialiving #momsday

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