On this Weekend post- Earth Day, a new Ethos stores, the perfect spring and summer sandal, an empowering book, a charming San Diego beach house, and thoughts on the Brooke Shield’s documentary.
How has your week been? Some exciting news is my dad got a new cat! His sweet cat passed away a month or so ago and he’s been missing her. We’ve been sort of looking, but this week we went to the Humane SSV Shelter in Milpitas and came home with a new pal. So it’s been a busy week helping my dad and his new cat get acclimated.
The Humane Society of Silicon Valley
I didn’t know how beautiful our new shelter is and I was blown away by the beautiful space and the way the animals are treated. I was used to seeing animals in shelters in cages, and it is not like that there. The HSSV is the world’s first model shelter -attaining all the standards put forth by shelter vets. I loved seeing the big field for dogs to run and play outdoors. When you go in animals are in rooms with windows, not cages and also have other recreational spaces. There is so much natural light. This video shows more if you don’t know about how special it is..
Meet Herbie! Dad and I walked the cat area and we were walking back when we noticed Herb. He had a key outside his door which meant he as friendly and you could visit him, so we went in and found he’s a real sweetheart. He is five months old and is just getting used to dad’s home now. I will keep you all updated. If you’re looking for a new friend, shelters all over the country are full and reaching a crisis point this year.
A fun San Diego beach house
If you haven’t seen it, the king of beautiful blue interiors, Mark D. Sikes updated a long time family beach house on the San Diego coast that is French Normandy style and is as charming as you would expect.. See the whole house and story on AD online here and in the magazine this month..
Earth Day…
This weekend is Earth Day and it’s a great time to rethink ways we can all make a difference in our small habits. We don’t have to do everything, but small things add up. I also feel a responsibility as a blogger, as I recommend things to buy. I try hard to choose things that you will have for a long time in the closet and home. I’m very much advocating for building a wardrobe and home that you will love for years with quality things as the building blocks and occasional updated accessories.
It’s been a game changer for me thinking this way. I also want us all to look at what we already have and use it in new ways. Shopping vintage and resale sites is the way to fantastic way to get gorgeous pieces and have more style- with things that are already on the planet
This is my original 50th anniversary Earth Day post filled with the story of how Earth Day origins and all kinds of things you can do to make an impact in small ways.
More Earth Day Events around the Bay Area here, Golden Gate park’s big Earth Day event, and I also liked this on the origins of Earth Day.
Did you know that within five years of that first Earth Day we had the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act , the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and also the EPA put into place?
At the same time, the movement went after congress members who had the worst environmental offenses and voting records calling them the ‘dirty dozen’ and largely got them defeated on the next election. We could be doing so much more than we are now, if we were as motivated as the founders were.
Just looking at this photo of the original Earth Day is inspiring…
The New Ethos Stores- Just in Time for Earth Day!
Have you heard of Ethos stores? These stores are low-waste living shops that focus on curating refillable and reusable alternatives that minimize our impact on the planet. This is one in Capitola and we just got one in Los Gatos. I was super excited so I ran down there Thursday afternoon to check it out for you all. This is the store we have been waiting for..Finally a place where you can buy in bulk. You may bring your own containers or purchase there. No more plastic containers ! We need these shops everywhere.
Not only is it good for the earth, the products are nice quality and affordable. I took a walk through the store which has all the soaps and cleaning products you use, plus beauty things like shampoo, cleansers, body and face creams and sunscreens, hair treatments, and even tooth products. You can buy brushes and reusable towels, wraps, and cottons for your face.
There is so much good there! Please stop by and check them out. Even though I had no containers, I decided to buy a micellar water and a sprayer and a wool dryer ball.. The water cost me $3 and the container was about the same.. So the prices are good and the water worked well and smelled great. Next I plan to get some hand soap and dish detergent and counter cleaner… You can follow them on Instagram where they share what they are all about. Have you been to one of these bulk stores near you and what do you think?
On My Radar
I need new sneakers and I wanted something stylish and comfortable I can wear all day. These these Top Spin Sneakers by Cole Haan will be comfy, have a little heel and come in a pretty navy too. These would look great with so much -slacks, dresses. I just can’t decide what color. More options here.
I’m not a big H&M person, but occasionally I will cruise through and see what’s happening there. This cotton/linen shirt dress stood out is part of their greener initiative and is of recycled fabric. I loved the sleeves which make this dress stand out. The quality and sewing was nice and I bought a Medium which hit me right above the knee at 5’4. I think this will be a great dress for the beach and warm weather days with slides. The black and pink versions are nice too.
I also spotted these adorable sandals that have a modern feel and a bit of a retro 90’s vibe. I feel like I had a similar pair of these from J. Crew back then. I love the tube like straps which are comfy and the block heel. They have a nice foot bed and feel like a pricier shoe, and are a classic style that will last. I hate heels, so these are an option when flats are just not dressy enough. These feel so good on I am considering the beige/nude color too before they are gone.
The Brooke Shields Doc- What are your thoughts?
I just finished the Brooke documentary. So if you haven’t watched and plan you may want to skip this paragraph… Come back and let me know your thoughts if you are a woman of our age.
I was shocked watching the first part. It brings back the misogynistic culture we grew up with. Objectifying women and all that..
I remember hearing about the Pretty Baby film, but had forgotten the facts around it. Putting an 11 year old girl in that film, playing a prostitute make me feel ill, and those who allowed it to happen in the name of art and a famous director, were all culpable. That would never fly now- thank God. Same with Blue Lagoon and Endless Love. Those films! Of course I saw the Blue Lagoon.. we couldn’t wait my friends and I.
Brooke’s time in college helped her gain confidence to make her own decisions and get validation that she was more than her appearance. Later, how she jumps into a relationship with another controller, Andre Agassi. I had no idea about him..She also admits to being raped by a famous producer and yet has never revealed the creep. I wish she would…I had also forgotten how Tom Cruise shamed Brooke for talking about her postpartum depression and getting therapy and meds for it. Wow just mind blowing he did that. I commend her for writing a book about something so horrible to struggle with, and that many had little information about at the time.
A lot of what happened to Brooke, happened to a lot of women of our ages. Women were valued on their looks, no apologies. If we had forgotten that age, we are reminded on this show. It’s hard to watch the cringy commentary and questions from people like Mike Douglas and others.
Brooke beyond all odds has remained normal, well adjusted and down to earth. She still looks like herself and natural. You see her paddling around her house on this show, with glasses and yes wrinkles and spots and not trying to look like 30 year self, unlike others in her field.
Perhaps the most memorable is the discussion she has at the dinner table with her very normal daughters. They say the films she made as a child, would not be okay now. She agrees and then proffers that many young women are choosing to exploit themselves on TikTok and Instagram, exposing very much, while very young, for more likes and attention. Sadly true.
Will we one day look back one day at all that in the same way we now view what was done to Brooke?
I’d love to hear what you all think if you watched it. The documentary is on HULU and I had to subscribe, ( I did the cheaper option with a few commercials), and you can cancel after.
An Empowering Book
Speaking of women, I saw someone recommending Claim Your Confidence this week. I read the reviews and it’s supposed to be uplifting and a fun read with a lot of good stories of the author. This book is all about finding courage and building confidence in all parts of your life. Someone said make sure to share it with another woman afterwards. I just ordered mine.
On last weekend’s post, the best blueberry muffins ever, Tahoe, updating old cabins with paint, some new J. Crew winners and the Brooke Shield’s documentary.
I hope you all have a sunny weekend,
Kim
Please visit my pals Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs..
MAKE MINE A SPRITZER
PINECONES AND ACORNS
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Once again you have provided us with a thoughtful and well-researched posting. I look forward to your posts and the information you share.
I will be shopping from Ethos stores. Had not heard about them so thank you for sharing.
Wishing your father and Herbie a very happy life together.
I did watch the Brooke Shields documentary. My take-away from it is that she is incredibly smart, strong, honest and beautiful in spite of being exploited for profit in by others. She raised herself and she did a great job.
Carolina, thanks so much. Yes check out the Ethos stores! Such a brilliant idea… and thanks about Herbie.
I so agree. Brooke really did raise herself didn’t she? It goes to show you can survive a lot and come out stronger.
Lydia Fenet spoke to a women’s conference I attended while still working. Her story is amazing… plus – love those shoes!
Leila that is so great! She sounds like a really interesting woman. I know love the shoes too! x
Thank you Kim for such an interesting post. All good wishes to your Dad and Herbie, what a gorgeous cat. I always get our cats from shelters and the Humane Society is amazing.You know if you shop at Amazon you can type in their name and buy them supplies from their shopping list of needs. One of our cats has a clipped ear as he lived in a cat colony off the streets and this is how he was “tagged “ after being neutered, and it’s extreme and sad to see, but he is so incredibly affectionate and greets you at the door if you have been gone a while. He loves humans! I did not know it was Earth day and thanks for posting about the shop. Must watch the documentary too. Happy weekend !
Hi Francesca! I didn’t know that about Amazon. Thank you so much! Herbie is taking a while to get adjusted as he had an extra 6 weeks at the shelter battling ringworm. The good news is he had a lot of extra foster time and playtime with the other kitties. So he just had his neutering the day before we got him.. He’s shy and we are hoping he’ll adjust. I love that you had a street kitty that is now a house cat! So sweet he comes to the door to greet you! Love to hear what everyone thinks of the doc. Have a great weekend! xo
Kim,
So much interesting and important content today! I saw your dad got a cat on Instagram; that’s so sweet that you made a day of it! I love that!
I have yet to watch the Brooke Shields documentary, but I still read your commentary, which makes me want to watch it even more!
xx
Herbie!
Reminds me of the little VW bug number 54!
We women have come along way in our lifetime!
We still have WORK TO DO!
Great Post !
Xoxo
Ha we have been calling him the LOVE BUG! He purrs a lot.
Haven’t we women been through so much? I am waiting for a world with female leaders of nations..lots of them. Hopefully in my life time. Yes still more work and belong the next generation. xo
Great post today, Kim! I’m boarding a plane … and wanted to let you know it was totally enjoyable, made me think, and made me smile … welcome Herbie! Happy weekend! xo
Juliet I will be living vicariously!! Have the best time.
Great post and full of lots of info! Welcome to Herbie, nothing
like a kitten. We just went through a similar experience as
my daughter recently lost her cat. We went to our Arizona
Humane society and adopted a darling kitten named Jasper. He is
a love machine and so full of energy. He will keep your dad busy
and amused. I have spent so much getting him toys to keep him
engaged and just love watching him grow. Great companion
for my daughter. These facilities do so much for these
animals and need our support however we can help. Herbie
will adjust with lots of love and attention as he builds trust
in his new home!
I don’t do H&M much either, but I occasionally find something
that is cute and well made. They do take clothes back to recycle
which is good. Anyway loved the post.
Thanks Char! And thanks about Herbie. Jasper is the cutest name too. I know may dad has is hands full! Aren’t these humane societies great? I love that H&M recycles the clothes that is a good thing. I believe the dress I bought was from their recycle initiative.
Aw thanks and have a good weekend!
Hi Kim,
I did listen to the video, the Humane Society in the Silicon Valley is very impressive. What a caring and loving environment for dogs, and cats and what other creatures they might care for.
Herbie (cute name) has the sweetest little face, just adorable. I am sure Herbie will come around to your dad. Cats as you well know do, once they feel safe, and some are shy and not so cuddle bugs. I love cats. It’s too bad they are miss understood.
I have not seen the Brooke Shields documentary yet. Know her childhood was not good to say the least and how she was exploited. It’s wonderful that she survived all the horrid drama and is functioning well hopefully today. I like to focus on how beautiful people are on the inside and not the exterior. Women today are still abused in so many way.
I have not heard of Ethos stores. A smart and with-it concept. Perfect for CA where the mind set is pro environment.
My neighbor friend’s birthday is today. She turns 8 OH. She was not born on earth day but her birthday now lands on that day. She adds to the planet.
Enjoy your weekend.
Warm hugs.
Hi Katherine, Thanks I am hoping Herbie and dad work out. It’s taking a bit and he’s very shy, but it’s only been a few days..
Aw how fun to be an Earth Day baby. Have fun with your neighbor. You are so right, some people definitely add to the planet- like you! Sending hugs.
Hi Kim,
Aww, Herbie is adorable. So nice that he has a loving home now.
Your posts are always thoughtful and informative. I remember the first Earth Day, at school we were all really into it, doing aluminum can drives and getting recycling started on our high school campus. It felt like things would change for the better if we all pitched in, and they did. But there are always folks out there who are more concerned with their bottom line $$$ than the bigger picture of the health of the planet. It’s distressing to see how much has been neglected, or the drive to reverse some legislation to favor big corporations vs. saving our environment. Ugh.
Cute sandals! I like them a lot and look forward to wearing them. I think the nude color looks better in the pictures that it did IRL. Your striped dress is adorable and I know you’ll get a lot of wear out of it. It was fun shopping with you!
Xo Heidi
Heidi I remember all the Earth Day’s at school when I was small – and my kids also. I feel like the momentum is going away and I hope people get back into realizing how important this all is to our survival..
We had fun! So glad you got the sandals too. They are so chic! xo
Happy Saturday Kim!
Herbie! I love the name, I thought the same as Elizabeth, Herbie the Love Bug! So happy for your dad, it is always nice to have a loving pet to keep you company. This animal shelter is AMAZING! I wish they were all like this.
The Mark D. Yikes beach house is beautiful! As is his collaboration with Schumacher and Anthropologie.
Ethos looks like a cool store. I’ve stayed many times at hotels that have large size bottles of lotion, shampoo, conditioner, etc instead of the small ones. I think this is along the same lines and such a great idea.
As you said, we don’t have to do everything but if we all do something its a good thing for the Earth. Happy Earth Day by the way! Love your history lesson, I forgot some of the things you mentioned.
I love buying vintage! I have purchased a few dresses from H&M and have had them for years. I am just buying less and less as I age and like you share things on the blog that I use, mostly books. But as Cindy H, mentioned a few weeks ago in a blog comment, sometimes she shares(as I do) things that look good, have great reviews but does not actually buy or own them.
As for Brooke Shields, I’v not watched the documentary but I have read a interviews. I feel sorry for all of the things she went through and I think so many in Hollywood have been through the same, controlling parents, abuse, etc. Judy Garland, McCauley Caulkin comes to mind. Her mom sounds like a piece of work and I believe that Drew Berrymore mentioned that she had a mom that was a little similar.
I also agree with Brooke Shields, Tik Tok and social media exploits children and allows parants to do the same, all in the name of $$$.
Love meandering with you! Happy Weekend my friend!
xo
Elizabeth
Yes agree. I think there should be an age limit on social media.. You should have to prove it too. Herbie! I can’t think of anything, but the Love Bug.. Those were of an era weren’t they?
Yay for buying vintage! Have a lovely weekend. xo
Herbie is very cute! Our last dog was a rescue from Bahrain, someone that was deployed over there found her wandering the street as a puppy. We adopted her at 2, and had 14 great years with her. It’s almost been one year since we had to say goodbye. We haven’t yet gotten another dog, we will probably wait until my husband retires. When we got hit with the flu and Covid back to back this winter (both of us at the same time) we kept saying we were so glad we didn’t have a dog to deal with!
It’s funny that San Diego home came up in my instagram feed the other day. I love Mark D. Sikes, I have both his books although I admit I liked the first one better, including the photos of his own home. I can’t keep up with how many times he has redone his! I guess when you are a designer and have no budget… 😆
I have only seen a few clips of the Brooke Shield documentary, but I did see the one with her daughters. Yes, they couldn’t believe she had done that film. I still remember watching Pretty Baby in my early 20’s at my boyfriend’s house. I remember at the time being a little taken aback by her being so young given the nature of the film!
Hope you are having nice weather. It was hot this weekend…ready for it to cool down a little.
Linda
Linda wow what a great story about your dog being found by a service member! I’m sure she had a wonderful life! I can understand waiting.. A new pet is a lot and you need to have the time! I agree Mark’s first book was the best.
I know Brooke ! It is upsetting to see how young women were treated back then..
Have a lovely weekend!!
Happy weekend Kim! Love your newsy posts. Wow, what a beautiful animal shelter in Silicon Valley. I pray all those sweet animals get a loving forever home. Herbie is beautiful and he will be a great little companion for your dad. Wishing them the best, and a speedy adjustment. I haven’t yet seen Brooke’s documentary. It was shocking to me at the time that they would subject this young girl to act in this exploitive film. So many people are culpable, including her parents. I have always liked Brooke Shields, and I’m so glad she is speaking out on her difficult life struggles. Xo
Hi Karen, Thank you! Isn’t that shelter wonderful? I feel the same about all the animals there… Hoping Herbie and dad do well too. I know the Brooke doc just was a reminder of what the heck we let happen.. agree about the parents. I also think she’s such a down to earth and likable person too! xx
Another fantastic post, thank you so much, I appreciate how much time and effort this takes 🥰 And thank you for adopting your dad’s cat from the shelter, may they have many years of companionship together!
Valetta, Thank you so much. I do hope my dad and his cat have a long time together too! x
I’m so glad your dad found a little buddy to take care of!
And btw I love my Cole Haan sneakers…wore them all over Japan for miles (!) and they felt great! Highly recommend, but yes, it’s hard to choose a color!
So glad you like them… I mean if you wore them all through Japan that says a lot! They look so cute too. Agree, I can’t decide which color! xo
Hi Kim! Another great post! I love how you take a stand on all the important issues. I agree with a story you posted on IG that we don’t need to be perfect environmentally, we just all need to make some efforts. I think I get an A+ for shopping vintage and antique for my home, haha! Definitely want to watch the Brook Shields documentary and I can’t wait to spend some time with the Mike D. Sikes AD spread. That place looks dreamy! Have a great week!
Thanks so much Molly, just trying too share things that really matter to me. I mean things have gotten crazy in this nation.
Yes I keep telling my kids, we don’t have to be perfect, just try and it all matters… You do the best job shopping gorgeous vintage pieces. xo