On this post- considering rompers and easy summer looks, how to live a Blue Zone lifestyle, and starting a reset before fall!
This week was a downtime for me which was nice. I had to stay in with a windshield repair and our street getting repaved. I realize I spend a lot of time out and sometimes I need to stop and look around.. There is a lot I can and should do here and I avoid it! One thing is clearing out drawers and closets and reassessing what I use and don’t.
Your Seasonal Reset
Does it seem like i just wrote about this? Well yes and I will keep doing so every quarter because you have to keep on top of this stuff…. We are getting ready to go into a new season, so take the down times to reassess and clean out, and make goals.
A seasonal reset doesn’t have to be a big thing, it can be as simple as taking a big shopping bag and going drawer to drawer and throwing things in it you are no longer using- or haven’t for years. A friend I hugely admire, who lives a beautiful life, told me she did that weekly and I imagine you get good at it.
While under house arrest due to the street work, I decided to start with my bathrooms and purged old shampoos, lotions, soaps and samples, cosmetics that are past their prime (a year or more), and just basically sitting unchosen and unused. Don’t feel guilty- get rid of it. Like I said with closet clean out if you haven’t chosen it, ( my favorite word for to help with purging), you probably won’t choose it later, so say goodbye.
Just make sure you separate everything at the end and recycle the plastic containers. If you have issue with that, you can offer things to a local Freecycle group, or even put it out on their sidewalk if it’s a full bottle of something. I haven’t tried that though.
I wiped the drawers with a fresh lavender non toxic cleaning spray and washed the containers with soapy water. I washed all the makeup brushes and let them flat dry in the sun. This is a good time of year to do that.
It seems like a lot of work, but later when you open the drawers and see the nice order and the fluffy clean brushes you’ll feel like it was a gift to yourself! That’s all I tackled so far, but it was satisfying and I’ve told myself I am beginning my reset.
I might do another post with my favorite brushes and skincare. I think I did it before, but maybe it’s time for an updated one.
Lifestyle Reset-Blue Zone Tips
Do you follow Dan Buettner the Blue Zones guy? I especially love his Instagram with daily tips from the Blue Zones of the world. Blue Zones are places where people live the longest- ‘consistently reaching 100’ according to the CDC. Dan works with National Geographic and identified five geographical areas where people not only live longer, but also are healthier without chronic diseases.
Blue Zone people eat a mostly plant based diet, including plant based proteins like beans, lean meats and fish, and no processed food. These people also drink in moderation, have lots of regular social interaction, are involved with or live near their families and have less stress!
We can try and incorporate some of their habits into our daily lives.. These people don’t work out per se, but are very active. Gardening and and walking a lot keeps them young and flexible. Getting low to the ground while gardening- or sitting on the ground as Okinawans do, to stretch or to rest, keeps balance into old age, so very important!
Get out there and start gardening and eating the veggies and fruit will help. My grandma who lived to almost 101 gardened and my dad who is 85 gardens. My dad is still delivering his garden bounty to me, I am so thankful.
Dan is having a new televisions show coming at the end of August on Netflix…
Right now you can watch Dan’s CBS Interview earlier this year which was good. He has a lot of simple ideas for living better… ( and hey it goes with our reset mindset!)
He has a cookbooks- this one looks the best.
Dan says people in these cultures eat the equivalent of one cup of beans a day. That sounds like a lot of beans.. Do we have to live on burritos?
Just kidding, but I was thinking about this and remembered a great pasta with beans I used to make when my kids were small and I was unable to shop and needed to use what was in the pantry and I thought I’d share… I just made it and Max and I said it’s one of our favorites and we need to get this back into our rotation. It’s comfort food, but healthier.
White Bean Dip and Pasta..
This is a faux alfredo of sorts. It’s got the fiber and protein of cannelini beans and I use gluten free pasta now ( I like the brown rice and corn versions ), and add toasted pine nuts, and fresh basil that I julienne for more flavor and texture.
For a dip, you can also do the same with the beans in a mini-prep or food processor and make it into a dip consistency and salt and pepper to taste then add a drizzle of olive oil and toasted nuts. It is great with veggies.
You will have have to tweak it a little to get the consistency you want, but once you get it the way you like it, you’ll throw it together fast.
Cannellini Bean Alfredo
Ingredients
- 1 12 oz pkg pasta- gemelli, ziti I like a pasta with ridges to catch the pasta. The corn+brown rice gluten free options are so good and what I used here.
- 1 box or can cannellini beans. I like organic.
- 2-3 T milk or water of your choice. I use oat.
- 2-3 T olive oil
- 1/4 C Parmigiano -Reggiano + plus extra to garnish. I have a block and use a rasp to grate.
- 1/4 C Pinenuts toasted.
- 1/2 C Fresh basil julienned.
Instructions
- While pasta is cooking, toast pinenuts over a low heat until slightly browning and set aside. Rinse cannellini beans and blend in a mini-prep, blender or food processor slowly adding milk or water until creamy and beans are not visible. Avoid making it too runny. Add a tablespoon of the olive oil and a 2-3 tablespoons of the grated cheese. At this point I also add a small amount of sea salt and pepper to taste.Drain the pasta and rinse. In the warm pasta pan, add the bean mixture and then add warm drained pasta on top and mix. Adjust the consistency with more olive oil or water if needed. Toss with the julienned basil and more cheese and add the pinenuts and drizzle with a thin amount of olive oil before serving.
Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits- are having a moment and I’ve been thinking about getting one for fall. I thought I’d dip my toe in the pool and try a short one. I was drawn to this pink color and it is surprisingly comfy. It is sold out in this color, but still here on sale in a pretty khaki.
I’ve worn it twice now out to a brewery with friends and out to run errands with flip-flops. I love the modern feel of it and they are very forgiving. ( I also cut off the flaps to hold the sleeve up so annoying.)
What are your thoughts on jumpsuits? I will share a few fall options in later posts, but I found another pink one here ( good for the Barbie movie too. LOL)-and the chic short one below at a good price…
On My Radar
I need more easy dresses I can throw on and go for warm days. This Madewell eyelet number is cute in white or a soft blue with pockets and is on sale this weekend. I just ordered the white.
I bought a friend Chanel Handcreme and the lip balm as she needed a little luxury and it accidentally was delivered to me. Well that was a nice mistake, as I had them resent, and decided to keep the package for myself! I love the hand creme, which comes in an egg shape container and I keep next to my bed. . It brightens your hands as well as moisturizes. It would also be nice for a handbag.
The Chanel Healthy Glow Lip Balm in the package is ideal for summer! I want to try all the shades now. The color stays on surprisingly well and feels good. I bought light and want to try deep too. I have to say, I have NEVER been disappointed in a Chanel skincare or makeup product. They are worth the money.
I loved there look of this short jumpsuit ( does romper sounds like it should be on toddlers?). It’s a simple denim one from Mango that you can dress it up with pretty sandals and a few chains or it’s a great daytime look.
If you missed it, Juliet joined Annie for another tartine this week and it looked like the perfect summer appetizer with prosciutto, brie and strawberries and Annie did salted butter and chocolate..
Last week’s post included a new book with fresh ideas on kitchen renovations, our stay at the historic Claremont Hotel in Berkeley, easy chic shorts, a glamorous outdoor birthday bash, and chat about the Barbie movie..
I’ll be back on Tuesday with Cindy for August’s Signature Style! I can’t believe we are in August already. If you don’t want to miss it, make sure you are subscribed – you can click the link at the bottom to sign up.
I hope you have a good weekend!
Kim
Please visit my pals Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs..
MAKE MINE A SPRITZER
PINECONES AND ACORNS
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Good morning Kim!
It sounds like you had a busy “staycation” perhaps unplanned but maybe a sign from the universe to slow down and enjoy your beautiful home, family and cute cat!
I need to do a major clear out of my closet and drawers. You have so many good tips and I love the idea of a “chosen” piece. As we age and life changes our “go to” piece and taste change so we no longer need the things we used in the past. Sometimes though it is hard to get rid of some of these pieces.
I am not a make-up girl, although I have it I rarely use it. My go too is eyeliner, lip stick/gloss and occasionally bronzer. I have never had good luck with foundation, I alway look orange. But I do love face masks and hair care, probably because 9 years ago I lost alot of hair, had fragile nails, and my skin was wonky from poor diet.
I have been a follower of the Blue Zone story, diet, for years and have that cookbook. I think, that diet is just one small part of their longevity. Life long activity and socialization are so important, as you mentioned gardening, walking, etc.
My mother-in law is 96, she is amazing, just like your grandmother and I think her longevity is due to many things including socialization, continued education, and movement. My dad is 84 and plays softball 4 days a week, he bowls, plays shuffleboard and lots of other things all year long.
I love beans! I like them in salad, dips, on pasta, in eggs and of course a burrito!
You look fabulous in jumpsuits! You definitely need another for Fall.
Have a wonderful weekend!
xo Elizabeth
Wow love hearing about your MIL and dad Elizabeth! They sound busy and that is so cool. Your dad plays softball 4 days? Wow!! I love it.
I know it’s taken me a long time to build a proper diet. I really try hard not to eat a lot of sugar and rarely drink and meat is easy for me as I’ve never like it. I just have to try and find a way to get more beans in.. I agree in salads and soups is the easy way.
I hope you have a lovely weekend! x
Hi Kim
I have been meaning to purchase the blue zone cookbook!! I am so happy to hear that you hate those tie up straps on shirts too. I thought it was just me!! I am pinning that pasta!! I can’t wait rompers. I am too long waisted!
Cindy I just ordered this one. He has a new one, but that was less appealing to me.
Aren’t those tie up straps dumb? They had to go. Thanks let me know if you like the pasta.. Rompers can be tricky. I a short waisted so maybe finally there is something that works for me. I do think the longer jumpsuits may be good for longer waisted gals. x
Yes, I do follow Dan Buettner and have read his books. The Blue Zone lifestyle makes many good points on living well. I love to make the recipe for granola that was in his first book. I have to laugh about the beans, but they are so good for you! We eat a lot of them as we eat mainly a plant-based diet. You have motivated me to do some cleaning out and donating “unchosen” clothes and cosmetics. It always feels good to do a clean-out. I didn’t comment last weekend, but I saw the Barbie movie with my daughter…we are trying to convince my 19 y.o granddaughter to see it. It was so good! I loved the message that this film made and the impact it has had on women. Loved reading about your stay at the Claremont Hotel. My high school had our senior ball held there in 1968. My husband and I stayed there a few years ago during the Christmas holiday season. It was so festive with several decorated Christmas trees. Definitely spend some time in the charming town of Berkeley. Xx Karen
Karen I like what he has to share! Beans are great.. I am trying to get more beans in our meals. Yay for the cleanout! I love the feeling.
I hope your granddaughter gets to the film! Wow how wonderful your ball was at the Claremont! I have to get there at the holidays!
xo
Kim, you look fabulous in your pink jumpsuit! I hope you wore it to see Barbie! Your pasta looks so good! Thanks for the shout out!
xx
Annie aww thank you.. Kind of fun. I am sad I didn’t get it until after Barbie! Maybe I ned to see it again. xo
Kim, that romper is adorable and would have been perfect for the Barbie movie. I love the idea of a romper … but haven’t indulged. Yet. I worry about having to visit the ladies room in a public space, but with your cute short romper that wouldn’t be an issue. You have good legs, I do not. Still, I care less about my legs these days and love the freedom of a short ensemble. So cute! I a lot of time cleaning out my closet this week I didn’t have the energy to tackle the bathroom drawers … but you’ve inspired me. Cleaning brushes is so important. I love your little blue and white jar for your brushes. Great tips on recycling. I’m going to do this today. The Blue Zone seems to have alluded me until now. So I’m following Dave and will watch the Netflix series. A cup of beans a day does seem like a lot, but I love your pasta recipe. Beans and pasta are the best combo. I’m also a fan of bean soups. Looks like it’s going to be warm this weekend … hope you stay cool and have a great one! xo
Darn I wish I had it! I think I need to go back and see the Barbie film again..Juliet you have the besets figure, but gosh we are all so critical of ourselves right? We should just be comfortable! Screw perfect.
I love bean soups too… Kind of excited for fall clothes and food! I’m so over the heat.
xo
Your Grandma was this in your fathers side?
To live to 101 is really something. Not many are blessed to live that long. Gardening and moving the body/back around I hear over-and-over from my Honey Bear. Also your dad is blessed he’s in good enough shape to garden. Lots of lifting of heavy stuff too. It makes a big difference if you come from good genes.
Wow, you have been the “white tornado.” So good to take your friends lead and clean out, discard,
and clean your brushes. Give yourself a big pat on the back.
You look comfortable in the pink jumpsuit, like the color plus it suits you.
Also thank you for the other things you shared.
🌸🦚🌸
Yes that was my dad’s mother! You are so right, gardening is a lot of bending, and lifting and twisting too. Thanks Katherine! hope your week is great. xoxo
Thanks for the Blue Zone info. Not ready to take it all on, but it’s inspirational and aspirational. LOVE the recipe. Can’t wait to try it. Jumpsuits/rompers are definitely out with an older bladder, but I loved them when I was younger and the pink one looks so cute on you.
hi Sheila- Merle! Well even if you don’t start it’s interesting to know what these zones are doing. No way can I do it all either! I hope you enjoy the recipe… Yep the jumpsuits are a challenge with the bathroom.. I can so see you as a jumpsuit girl with your modern style. xo
Really enjoying your posts—always chock-full of interesting info! Im liking the jumpsuit trend, too. Looks pulled-together but also casual and comfy!
Thank you Carol! I’ so glad. Love the jumpsuits- especially the casual ones! xo
Haha well I am sort of being forced to clean out around here since we have to move out for 6 months for the remodel. I decided to sell my mom’s sterling flatware on eBay. (a little side hobby of mine) I don’t really use it and I have a really nice set from Pottery Barn that I forget to use because it’s stored in the dining room. I sent my friend a text to take a Home Goods tray off my hands, and she was eager to have it. So I am slowly starting to go through things. Definitely need to go through my makeup and beauty products…I keep my makeup brushes in a blue and white porcelain cup like yours. 😊
I guess we live a semi Blue Zone life. Eat very little red meat, I try to cook vegan at least twice a week. (my daughter was vegan for about 7 years) We eat a lot of salmon too and occasionally chicken. We exercise and work in the yard as well, although I haven’t been outside as much this year with all the rain. My husband used his weed whacker so much this year a piece broke and that thing was not cheap!
Enjoying our weather at the moment, the nights are staying cool so at least I can go for my morning walks a few days a week. Last September is was so awfully hot and humid I couldn’t walk for over 2 weeks. At least I have a treadmill and exercise bike too so I can put on the a/c!
Linda
Linda, That was really helpful to me when we moved twice for the remodel… I poured before and after I didn’t want to being so much stuff back to the new place. It was huge. I would have been carrying a lot more things with e had we not done that. Great idea giving to friends!
I love the porcelain cups for brushes!
You two sound very active and healthy. I am with you when it’s too hot to walk, I hate it. So far we; eve still had cool nights and mornings and I am hoping we don’t get a heat wave. Keep up what you are doing!
Hi Kim,
The pink romper is absolutely adorable on you! I am very interested in the Blue Zone and longevity. I need to get out and walk more! My 81 year old Uncle in Walnut Creek has walked several miles a day – for years – and he is incredibly healthy! If you’re ever in WC, and see an elderly man wearing a cowboy hat and walking, that’s him. Everyone knows him – ha! Thanks for the great post. Have a fabulous week!
Thank you Karen! I am interested in the Blue Zones too. Yay for your uncle! That is wonderful he does that… how cute and wear a cowboy hat! My dad walks two miles every morning too.
I think that is the key isn’t it? Have a good week. xo
I SEE IAM WAY BEHIND……………
I WILL TUNE IN FOR SIGNATURE STYLE TOMORROW!
XXX
Don’t worry! I think you will like it as it’s about linen. x
Hi Kim! Love the pink jumpsuit/romper! It looks better on you than it does on the model! Also, glad to know I am not the only one who hates those tabs for holding up the sleeves. Why are they on everything these days?? Thinking of trying the hand cream since I have been looking for a good one. Definitely interested in the Blue Zone show. Thanks for the tip!
Molly you are sweet. I loved the color. Aren’t those tabs dumb? I love the handcreme!