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Carmel Spots, Fall Closet Reset & More

September 20, 2024 By kimwheeler 39 Comments

On this post, part one of my closet cleanout program, new spots to check out in Carmel, and fun Bay Area events happening now.

We had a beautiful week with some very fall like weather. I even wore a sweater and jeans on one day. I got so excited on Monday, that I decided to go get my mumms for the fall porch and get my pumpkins too. I even got myself a pumpkin latte. I really have missed clouds and cooler days.

I found the best tricolor mumms at Home Depot for $24.99. They come with some nice black planters, but I dropped them in my Target baskets that are still going strong. I have added plastic trays in them to keep them well watered. I dug out last year’s autumn leaf wreath I bought at our local Bunches florist. It is real leaves that are sprayed and it fared pretty well in the garage. (Similar wreaths here.)

I also want to thank you for the beautiful and thoughtful responses last week regarding the election and why I am supporting Kamala. I was not expecting so many passionate and inspiring comments. You all have gotten me even more excited and hopeful for this election and the future. I know some weren’t happy with me, but I’d rather lose some followers than lose more human rights. I know in my heart I am trying to use my platform for good and hopefully a better country for the next generation. Next week Max and I are going to write postcards with others to swing states!

Organizing and Resetting Your Closet in 3 Parts!

Friday on Instagram, I shared Part 1, of a three part series on getting your closet in order for fall. Instead of my usual fall closet cleaning video, I thought I’d share the process in my own closet.

Part 1 tasks are:

🔸1. Remove and store summer things.
🔸2. Deep clean, vacuum, dust and refresh.
🔸3. Look at trends and find what speaks to you. Shop your own inventory and and gather things together that are current that YOU love.
Example-I dug out leopard pieces I had-some forgotten, that I am excited to wear this season and grouped them together so I’ll be excited to wear them and work them in my looks.

You can take this in small bites and you needn’t spend a whole day. Start with one task and make it fun. Doing this twice a year helps you know what you have in the closet. That means you’re going to dress better and shop smarter.

It’s super important to change up the closet at least twice a year. I don’t have an extra closet, so I store clothes by rolling them and storing in extra travel bags and storage boxes. This way the closet has room to breathe and you can see what you want to wear now, and not have to paw through summer dresses in the middle of December. Transitioning the closet twice a year is a chance to assess what you wore or didn’t before you put things away.

Remember this one question that helps keep a better curated closet. The question isn’t, ‘Is this something that fits perfectly or looks great?’, but instead..

‘Will I choose this item?’ If not, let it go! We have way too many things in the closet we just never choose. Saying goodbye to those things can be freeing and a closet with less is calming and better curated.

You can watch Part 1 here. The next two parts will be coming, so follow me on Instagram if you aren’t already.

New to me Carmel Spots!

Max and I got away for our anniversary (28!) to Carmel a few weekends ago. We stayed at our favorite spot Bernardus Lodge. ( More about the lodge on this post from last summer.) We left late Friday, which was dumb as it took us three hours to drive what is normally and hour and a half. Still, we had a nice dinner at the bar there and had some fun people watching a beautiful wedding that was also happening.

Loved the flowers at this Bernardus wedding.
Poolside at Bernardus.

Saturday, we decided to do something a little different and after a relaxing breakfast, we chilled by the pool for the early part of the day and read. Bernardus is in Carmel Valley and sunny most of the time! After lunchtime, we drove to Carmel by the Sea to shop and walk about and have dinner.

On the way, we stopped at The Crossroads, shopping center by Safeway to grab coffee at Carmel Valley Coffee Roasters, which is always good and has a sunny patio. Next door is River House Books, a must stop family owned independent bookstore! This shopping center is underrated and has some great little spots including a stationery store (so few left), and a home decor spot called Consignment by the Sea. I need to get back as they had gorgeous things in the window. I see they also just opened Breadsong, a sourdough bakery and coffee bar that transforms to Steakcraft at night. I will have to check out on the next trip.

In Carmel, we parked off the main street and I spotted two new places- Somewhere and Eco Carmel. Eco is on San Carlos and attracted me with their darling resident dog…

Eco has all the green living things you could want, including pets and babies. They had some beautiful paper lamps too. Interesting items. I bought a baby gift and beeswax food covers, as I hate using plastic wrap and mine were getting old.

Somewhere in Carmel is another darling shop, also right off San Carlos. I would say if you want a quality Carmel memento, this is the place. I am in love with the sweatshirts which are super soft, made in California. The bags and hats are also great souvenirs. They have cards, art, books and more. I bought a lavender Carmel sweatshirt and it is dreamy. (Also more expensive than I thought, but in my defense, I didn’t have my readers on!) I want one of the woven bags.

I also got to Anthropologie there, which is always good. Tried these Colette front pocket jeans and this Cloth & Stone white shirt. (Their shirts are the best.) Loved the hem detail on the jeans. I put both on hold as we were headed to dinner and forgot to go back!

Max made us reservations at a charming spot called The Treehouse Cafe. It was upstairs and run by the nicest family. it’s a Mediterranean menu and food was delicious.

Afterwards we watched the sunset at the beautiful Carmel beach.

I hope you get to Carmel this fall. It’s my favorite time of year!

On My Radar…

I cannot wait for this book, Lady Pamela to arrive. Designer India Hicks has been sharing fascinating and hilarious stories about the life of her adorable mother, Lady Pamela Hicks, on her Instagram. This is a visual biography and the preview on Amazon is fantastic. Her mum was Lady in Waiting to the Queen, and married to designer David Hicks, and led a fascinating life.

I did an impulse buy and bought myself an Hermes set of 12 emery boards after reading a traveler’s list of things she loved. She said they were they best and came in a darling Hermes box. I added nail polish while checking out and both were a fun surprise to get in the mail this week. The polish Jaune Imp is so nice and perfect tone for a fall pedi/mani. I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on it.

I adore this BOO sign set that you can stake into one big pumpkin or three! Great price for $22 and you can use for many years. Since we don’t have kids at home now, this is easier than carving!

These glass pumpkins at Terrain are pretty and I love that they have hollow bottoms for a string lights!

Other Good Things

Three cool local events you may want to attend…

Golden Gate Park’s Botanical Garden’s Flower Piano is still going on and this is the last weekend. You can experience the pianos and open air music while visiting the Botanical Gardens, or go to the Flower Piano Lounge where there are special artists and drinks and food. It sounds wonderful!

From October 16 – November 3, 2024, Filoli Estate in Woodside will be having Nightfall at Filoli, a bewitching Halloween experience. It begins with a candlelight walk through the historic manor house and then you wander the specially lit grounds with jack o’lanterns, photo ops, and Jack’s bar with seasonal food and drinks. I would love to do this! I’m sure it will sell out fast.

Thread the Change is a Fashion Show Fundraiser happening October 6, at The Peninsula Country Club in San Mateo. This is a fundraiser and awareness program focusing on the importance of sustainability and ethical labor practices in the clothing industry created by students from local high schools. The event will feature educational presentations, speakers, a runway show featuring “Quiet Luxury” fashions from local stores, and refreshments. The event supports My New Red Shoes, one of my favorite local charities, that helps meet the basic needs of children and their families by fostering financial stability in their homes.

On last weekend’s post I shared early fall fashion pieces to consider, a twist on strawberry shortcake, a cool Kamala shirt, and more.

Please stop by Juliet and Elizabeth’s blogs for more weekend fun..

Make Mine a Spritzer

Pinecones and Acorns

Have a lovely weekend!

Kim

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Filed Under: Style

ON MY RADAR...

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Michelle says

    September 21, 2024 at 6:44 am

    My Kamala t-shirt should be arriving any day now—I’m so excited! And I also sent my sister one for her birthday. I can’t wait until we’re together so we can take a pic! Last weekend, my husband called me from Costco to say their huge mums were in. I had him grab two and I’m slowly converting my porch over to my fall decor. It’s really hot still where I live so I’m watering those mums like crazy; fingers crossed that they survive for the next few months.

    Also wanted to mention how much I enjoy your travels. My son is now in college in CA so I hope my husband and I will have some opportunities for future visits to see him but then also explore some other parts of your state. Have a lovely weekend!

    • kimwheeler says

      September 21, 2024 at 6:52 am

      Michelle, Yay! So cool you and your sister will both have them! I love that. You have to take a picture and save this special time in history. I forget about Costco! I bet those are good ones.
      I hope you get some chances to explore California! Wishing your son a great year at school.There is so much to see.
      Happy weekend!

  2. Mary says

    September 21, 2024 at 6:59 am

    Hi Kim, always enjoy your blog! My blue Kamala tee arrived the other day and I love it so thanks for letting us know about them. Like you, I’ve been writing postcards to support a candidate in the Central Valley🤞 And today,,,,I’m going to a clothing swap sponsored by Sister District. The cost to register is $20 – $40, based on a sliding scale. You can bring up to 10 items of clothing or accessories and then hopefully find some things to come home with.
    Such a fabulous idea I think..
    Again, thanks for all that you do.
    Warmly
    Mary

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 5:11 pm

      Mary I would love one in blue too! Thank you for the postcards to Central Valley, much needed I bet.
      The clothes swap sounds cool. I am going to look Sister District up. I did it with a group a few years ago.
      It is a great idea and we need more of those!
      Thank you for the sweet words! x

  3. Melissa Austin-Weeks says

    September 21, 2024 at 7:15 am

    Good morning Kim. I always enjoy your posts. Your sentiment of “rather lose followers than more human rights.” Your posts are like sitting down with a friend and catching up. Have a lovely weekend.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 5:05 pm

      Melissa thanks so much! That makes me so glad. Have a great week too! xo

  4. Francesca B says

    September 21, 2024 at 7:52 am

    Hello Kim,
    Such a lovely post thank you for all the gorgeous shots of Carmel. Happy Anniversary!!
    I so love reading your blog and l really like how you speak your truth with regards to politics and every aspect of life. Bravo !!! We are all at a critical junction here in the States.
    The dip in temperature is so welcome here in SoCal and l booked my hubby and l a short stay in Big Sur in November. Cannot wait for long walks and being deep into the woods. Your bit about closet cleaning is perfect l will tackle that today and order the Pam book. Perfect!
    And last year l ordered those Target planter baskets and they are so nice, so thanks for the Home Depot tip. Happy weekend, enjoy!

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 5:04 pm

      Thank you so much Francesca! Yes I so agree this is such a critical time for . Appreciate your support.
      Oh Big Sur sounds amazing. I hope it’s wonderful. It’s such a great place for the soul.
      Doesn’t the Pam book look good? Waiting for my copy. Good luck with the closet. So glad the planters are still going strong.
      Happy week! xo

  5. Melody Caldwell says

    September 21, 2024 at 8:44 am

    After years of enjoying all of your posts, especially the tribute to Joni Webb, and never commenting, I am compelled to comment now. Thank you for your insight and information, etc. about Kamala Harris. I have been so upset about the direction our country has been taking over the last several years and just can’t believe that truth is not important. Kamala Harris is my hero and her taking up the abortion rights topic is so important. I still find it hard to believe that Roe v. Wade was repealed two years ago. I am sure it is hard to put your political views where everyone can comment – good or bad, so thank you again. FYI, if you are interested, Rachel Maddow had a great program on last night call From Russia with Lev. It was so informative and conclusive into the whole Hunter Biden Ukraine Trump impeachment sage. If you have any interest, I highly recommend it. I also enjoy your posts about Los Gatos and Carmel, etc. and we lived in the East Bay (Danville area for over 30 years) before retiring in the Foothills. Thank you again.
    Melody Caldwell

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:56 pm

      Melody, Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. Gosh I still miss Joni Webb so much. She just was funny as heck and always on the right side of things wasn’t she?
      Kamala is my hero too. We have a woman championing our human rights, and it feels like we are all with her. She sees us. I also cannot believe it’s been two years since our healthcare rights have been removed. It’s a great knowing there is a woman fighting for us against two incredibly misogynistic men.

      I just looked up the From Russia With Lev show. Looks good and I’m going to try and catch it this week if I can. Thank you for recommending that. How in the world is Trump even a candidate when he’s colluded with the worst people?

      I’m so glad you found me up there in the Foothills! We California gals are of like minds.
      Have a wonderful week! x

  6. Cynthia Dean says

    September 21, 2024 at 9:57 am

    Hi Kim, Your post today came at a perfect time. My 3 college roommates will be visiting from Southern California and we will be spending a day in Carmel. It is always fun to learn about new shops and restaurants. Fall is the perfect time to go! I also flip my closet in the Spring and Fall. I have a very small closet and do not have room for my entire wardrobe. It is always a great opportunity to eliminate things I no longer wear. This last Spring I made a little bit of money by selling my clothes I was not keeping to a local consignment store. I will wait a couple of weeks though to flip, it looks like we are back in the 90’s next week. I love your porch, I need to do mine, while Trader Joe’s still has a good selection of pumpkins. I always look forward to your weekly meanderings! Thank you for doing what is right and speaking from your heart. I sure hope this election turns out the way I am hoping. I am definitely worried. We are displaying our Kamala sign proudly in our front yard!

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:42 pm

      Hi Cynthia, What a fun idea for you and your roommates. You will have such a great time in fall.
      Yay you for doing the seasonal closet flip! No wonder you are always so well dressed. It helps so much to keep your inventory in check!
      I know hard to believe we will be getting hot again. I keep wanting to put my comforter on the bed, and realizing not yet…

      Thanks for supporting Kamala and yard sign! I know how you feel about the elction. I am hoping the good in this world will win out over evil. xx

  7. Dawn Lucy says

    September 21, 2024 at 10:27 am

    Carmel is one of my fav places! That cute pic of the dog in the window put a big smile on my face. Love your tips for a closet clean out too. I just got a few new fall things and it’s making me so excited for some cooler weather!

    OXOX
    Dawn

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:37 pm

      Mine favorite spot Dawn. Isn’t that the cutest doggy? I am very excited to wear some sweaters and things. I am so over the summer clothing. xo

  8. Juliet says

    September 21, 2024 at 12:38 pm

    Good morning, Kim! Love your KA MA LA t-shirt. For years, before she became the VP candidate, I pronounced her name incorrectly. Jim still struggles … so I’m thinking of getting it for him. He ordered the cutest lawn sign but it hasn’t arrived. Congratulations on 28 years of marriage and probably more together. That’s an accomplishment. Happy you got away to your favorite spot. I know I say this everytime, but I’m long overdo for a visit to Carmel. And fall seems like the perfect. time. There’s always something interesting happening at Filoili and I love that they have the sense of humor to turn into a sort of haunted house. That QL fashion show looks awesome too. So many fun events around the Bay this time of year. The question about ‘will I reach for it’ is such a good one. Even if something fits and I like it, if I don’t wear it then something’s not right and it makes sense to say goodbye. Hope you have a lovely fall weekend! xo

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:36 pm

      Juliet, Thank you. Well, to Jim’s defense, it is easy to pronounce wrong. Oh yay for the lawn sign!
      Yes you need a Carmel trip in fall! SOOO pretty now.
      I know the ‘ Will I choose it?’ is the best question ever for letting things go!
      Hope you had fun in wine country. Cannot wait to see! x

  9. valletta says

    September 21, 2024 at 2:33 pm

    Love your posts, as always.
    Love Bernardus, we go every year, would love someday to retire to Carmel Valley, with a ranch and lots of animals. A dream!
    Ordered some beads online and we’re making KAMALA friendship bracelets with the nieces and nephews. I think they are getting excited about their first vote, the momentum is real! We talked about a road trip to Vegas to volunteer / door knock in a swing state, since CA is reliably blue.
    My house was built in 1926 so I have major closet envy. We do have a basement though (and attic and detached garage) so I have to get creative with storage. Just lost 15 lbs of post menopause weight though so I’m feeling pretty good about picking up some new jeans. Thankfully my flare / bootcut styles are in this year and lots of good options out there. Thanks for great post!

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:33 pm

      Valetta, I love the idea of retiring in CV! Isn’t it a dreamy spot? You get the proximity to Carmel, but the sunshine too.
      Love that you are making friendship bracelets with Kamala with your nieces and nephews! I am so glad to hear about the young people voting. A door knock trip in a swing state would be so fun. I love that Jane Fonda was out doing it in a swing state this week.

      Our home is small and the closet not huge either so I hear you. Congrats on feeling great! I am working on eating better and more hiking. The struggle is real. Have fun with the jean shopping!! You’ll look on trend in those flare ones.
      xo

  10. Elizabeth says

    September 21, 2024 at 2:44 pm

    Thank you for speaking out! I hope you did not lose too many followers. I love your travel reports. I will be down the Bay Area soon visiting my daughter. So, love your reports on the Bay Area shops.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:26 pm

      Elizabeth thank you for the kind words and support!
      I hope you enjoy your trip down here. I went to Point Lobos this weekend and will share next week. That’s a great spot too.
      xo

  11. Sheila in SF says

    September 21, 2024 at 9:09 pm

    Great post! Always so entertaining and full of places and things to enjoy. Love Carmel I celebrated my birthday there last February. Tell me how to get involved with the postcard writing..
    Kamala is our light in shining armor! Happy Anniversary looks like a fun time in Carmel.
    Cheers.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 4:20 pm

      Hi Sheila! Thank you. Carmel is the best place for a birthday!

      I just looked up the postcard writing and there are more opportunities here at Vote Forward to send to swing states:
      https://votefwd.org/campaigns
      Kamala is giving us so much hope now! Can’t wait for this election to be done.
      xo

  12. Susan says

    September 22, 2024 at 7:08 am

    Hi, I am one of the people who responded to you last week regarding your jump into political commenting. I want you to know that I spent 25 years in the Bay Area (Saratoga) working fulltime in public education and raising three children. When my oldest got married and announced she was pregnant, we moved to be nearer to her (still in California). Your blog was attractive to me because it brought me back home where I still have friends and family. Unfortunately, as I said last week, I cannot continue to be a subscriber if you are will be continuing political commenting. So I guess I am one of the followers you won’t mind losing and I am sorry to hear that. So in closing, I have something to say, what has Kamala done for us the last four years? Have you talked to your parents lately or your husband’s parents lately, what do they have to say about the state of our nation?. Can they afford the cost of the food they used to buy, the price of gas, or even the electric cars that they want us all to drive? It is not the same country we used to live in, sadly it is much worse.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 22, 2024 at 3:56 pm

      Susan,
      I’m glad you commented today as it gives me a chance to share some facts with you that you may not be aware of. I hear you about the price of things, but Biden has done an amazing job with inflation. Inflation is up the world over, but we have the lowest inflation compared to many countries and among the G-7 nations, we now have the lowest. ( Harris is not the president, Biden has been and it’s his policies.)

      ‘Under President Biden, 6.6 million jobs have been created—the most jobs created in a single year under any U.S. president in recorded history. About 87% of the jobs lost during the worst of the pandemic have been regained. The unemployment rate fell to 4.0% in January 2022—down
      from a pandemic high of 14.7% and 6.4% when President Biden entered office—exceeding
      experts expectations.’ source :https://www.jec.senate.gov

      I think it’s safe to say Americans are doing well. People are buying and traveling at record rates. Since the whole world is affected by inflation, I think we know we cannot pin it on one person to change that, though Biden’s policies and his American Rescue Act, was a big part of that. So has his infrastructure and Jobs Act, which has been a huge job creator and will continue to be for the next decade.

      By the way Trump’s tariff plan,(something he still doesn’t get), is going to raise the average household cost about $4,000 dollars. Tariffs are paid by our nation, and are passed down to consumers. This is a deep delve into what his tariffs will do to the supply chain, jobs and families from the Cato Institute:

      https://www.cato.org/blog/trumps-tariff-plan-will-raise-prices-consumers-just-bastiat-warned-170-years-ago

      When you ask me to ask our parents how they are doing, my dad loves how well his stocks are doing and drawing more each month from his funds. My dad still has his healthcare, BUT JD Vance said, ‘We want to make those who are younger and healthy pay less than someone older or with health issues who should pay more.’ I don’t think that would be good for him or seniors. They also want to remove the pre-existing condition clause of the ACA, which has protected so many of us.

      Our mothers are sadly no longer with us, but both of them would be adamant that we support anyone who would look out for women and families. Both came from a generation where women did not have choice. They would never want us to go backwards, knowing women who struggled with unwanted pregnancies and birth control options.

      It’s pretty shocking that you -a women, and a former educator, are okay with a man who has been the source of removing women’s choice and essential healthcare. Two women alone in Georgia have died from these draconian policies and more in Texas. In a new report out just yesterday, maternal deaths skyrocketed in Texas by 56% since the new abortion ban. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/womens-health/texas-abortion-ban-deaths-pregnant-women-sb8-analysis-rcna171631

      This man is a liar, a con artist, and a convicted sexual assaulter. He tried to cheat after the election, and he refused a peaceful transition of power and leave when he lost. He incited a violent mob and coup.

      Yet YOU a woman and former teacher want the man back in office? That shocks me. You have a daughter too. Would you want her to navigate pregnancy in a state where if she miscarried, her doctor could not give her a D&C? She would be at risk of death and her fertility ended by infection and sepsis? This is happening now thanks to TRUMP. Can you believe these red state women are getting healthcare that is akin to a third world nation?

      So in the words of my brilliant grandmother Jody who died just before the 2016 election, ‘I’d vote for a rock before I’d vote for that man.’

      I wish Susan you would get informed. Please do better.

      • Heidi says

        September 23, 2024 at 11:28 am

        Bravo Kim!

        • kimwheeler says

          September 25, 2024 at 6:01 pm

          Thanks Heidi xo

      • Ruth says

        September 29, 2024 at 4:40 am

        I applaud you most fervently for this. We who live right next door in Canada, as well as millions around our world are watching this election with fear and trepidation. Harris – Walz is the only choice. Please keep educating naive Americans who have been duped by the one who shall not be named, along with his greedy – power- hungry allies in the GOP.
        (btw – thank you for your wonderful blog, and the time and energy it must take to craft such interesting reading.)

        • kimwheeler says

          October 5, 2024 at 7:10 am

          Hi Ruth, Thank you so much. I know I have had so many friends from overseas worried about us and who cannot believe Trump is allowed to even run again. It’s super upsetting and the normalization of him by the media is part of the problem! He is not a normal candidate and this isn’t just Republicans vs Dems. This is a man who rejects the constitution and refused to leave the oval office. Thanks so much about the blog too. xo

  13. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    September 22, 2024 at 7:16 am

    Good morning Kim!
    You are one of the few authentic bloggers that I know, never ever let anyones comments get you down. Write and stand for what you believe in.
    Happy 28th Anniversary, how wonderful to take a weekend away to celebrate all that entails. I have not been to Carmel in years, flying from the East to west coast is a bit trying. It took us almost all day to get home from Colorado on Friday. I am still exhausted and under the weather from that.
    You need to go back to Anthro, that shirt and jeans look beautiful on you. Cloth and Stone are one of my favorites for shirts.
    So many great tips for cleaning your closet. As I age, I need less and less and it makes no sense to keep extraneous stuff around.
    Have a wonderful week Kim,
    xo

  14. Linda Henderson says

    September 22, 2024 at 8:07 am

    I am 100 percent with you on Kamala. Thank you. As many of your other subscribers have mentioned, I too very much enjoy your travel info and photos. Just great! Keep up the good work.

  15. Karen H. says

    September 22, 2024 at 12:12 pm

    Hi Kim, and Happy Anniversary! Your blog is always full of interesting things to do and read. Carmel is one of our fav places to visit. I enjoyed discovering a new to us restaurant…the Treehouse Cafe. Looks so fun and the food looks delish! Also, thanks for the tip about the Crossroads Shopping Center. Definitely on list for next visit. We are optimistic about Kamala influencing the swing states. I realize there will be those who still believe that women should not have control over their bodies, or that the president has control over the prices of food and gas. Please continue your lead in educating others on these issues. Thanks to you and another reader for pointing me to the historian and professor, Heather Cox Richardson.

  16. Heidi says

    September 23, 2024 at 11:41 am

    Hi Kim,
    I always love your posts, when I finish reading I feel more informed, and inspired too! I appreciate how you lay out the facts and supply sources of information for those who want to dig deeper.
    I wish more people would actually understand the truth, and not just the ridiculous rhetoric and outright lies that are flying around right not, re Trump and what he stands for. (and what we as a nation stand to lose if he wins the election, god forbid.)
    Anyway, don’t get me started, moving on…
    I love the fall season, and look forward to getting my mums and pumpkins. I can’t put them out too early or the squirrels and other critters will get to them. Last year I picked up a pumpkin to move it and it was hollow, from having been eaten away from the inside and the bottom up. What a surprise. So now I know and will wait until about 2 weeks before Halloween, and hope they last through Thanksgiving. I guess I can put up the fall wreath though they cant’ get to that! Every time I think about changing things to the cozy fall decor ( the throws, snuggly knit pillows etc) it gets warm again. Today is supposed to be mid 80’s. Ah well.
    Carmel is great this time of year, less tourists clogging up the sidewalks, and beautiful weather. I will try to get down there soon. I’m busy getting ready for my big art show in a few weeks, then I’ll be free to do more exploring. Hope to wear a sweater and boots while doing it, too! I love dressing for the cooler weather! I have somehow acquired a bunch of new things that I’m eager to wear!
    Take it easy Kim, enjoy your week.
    Xo Heidi

    • kimwheeler says

      September 25, 2024 at 6:04 pm

      Hi Heidi! Thank you. I know this election is not something to take lightly and the other side is not only criminal, but deranged and gunning to remove more of our rights. Glad you care too.
      Wow no way ! Those squirrels can really wreak havoc can’t they? So far wee have been fortunate with that, but when my son was at Santa Clara U they had the same thing on their little porch pumpkins. They had a real issue with those guys!
      Best of luck with the art show and hopefully you’ll have cool temps and a cute sweater on. xx

  17. Katherine says

    September 23, 2024 at 2:57 pm

    Hi Kim,
    I always look forward to your sharing, I took quick glances throughout the weekend. Just had too much going on. Our big event was supporting one of my dear friends husband’s celebration of life. The best kind of people ever. I got a taste of what Assisted Living is all about, and for some only that were in wheel chairs my take away is that is where you go when you are preparing to die. Not everyone for sure, only those in advanced age. My forever friend is older than I’m but she still looks as beautiful as ever, and the inside is the same. Enough of my share.
    I loved seeing the pics and EVERYTHING you shared about Carmel, it’s such a magical piece of Heaven. The Bernardus looks like a very special place to celebrate your anniversary. Happy belated, nice to hear you did something special, and your birthday too. Max knows how to treat you like a Princess. My favorite pic that I LOVED is the sunset Carmel Beach with you two in it too. What a great shot.
    It’s good that you treat yourself and don’t cheat yourself in wowie style. The Hermes nail file and nail polish is a Princess thing for sure, I love it. I never knew that Hermes had nail files and nail polish. I guess I live permanently in a cave. I know my Jen said a friend from our hometown in SF gave her a Hermes scarf for her birthday. Can you imagine? That is a generous, but uncomfortable gift to receive.
    The Eco Carmel shop with the fur baby dog in the window was priceless, too cute. I’m glad you did not have your glasses on and bought the Carmel sweatshirt, that will look dreamy on you. At the end seeing you in CA cool jeans with your cap on told it all,
    being like going with the flow and just breath and chill type of vibe. The things that you did try on at Anthropology looked so good on you, it’s good to know that others forget things too.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 25, 2024 at 5:59 pm

      Katherine, Hope the celebration was nice. I bet those at the assisted living really appreciated you guys being there. Thank you about the anniversary! Ha I didn’t knwo about the nail files and polish. Just a fun impulse, but a one time thing!
      Wow and Hermes scarf is quite a gift!
      Lol I know good thing I don’t shop without my glasses too often.
      Hope you are getting some cooler days there in AZ! Been watching the temps.Take care!! xo

  18. Dani Vandiver says

    September 26, 2024 at 9:36 am

    Hi Kim,
    I love reading your Blog and this one was my favorite as I’ve kept going back just looking through the pics of Carmel. We live in Ojai, CA which is around 4-1/2 hours away and try to get up to Carmel a couple of times a year as it is my favorite place on earth. I so want one of those Pebble Beach sweatshirts you showed and it kills me I’m not able to go and get one!! I think the next time we visit we should stay in Carmel Valley as we are always inclined to stay downtown Carmel.
    I’m right there with you on the Kamala vote and feel nauseously optimistic that she will win. I’m going to look into the postcard writing as I only learned about it here and what a great idea.
    Thanks for such fun reading!

    • kimwheeler says

      September 30, 2024 at 8:39 pm

      Hi Dani! Thank you so much. Carmel is lovely, but Ojai is one of my very favorite spots too! I need to get back there. Yes if you like those sweatshirts you should get to Somewhere! They are the nicest sweatshirts. Absolutely try and stay in Carmel Valley if you can. It’s just an easy drive into town and they have a darling little village too and restaurants. I am partial to Bernardus, but Carmel Valley Ranch is also gorgeous and Quail Lodge is cute too.
      Yay for more postcard writing! I am feeling the same. We have to keep positive and do all we can! xo

  19. Austin TX says

    September 27, 2024 at 2:08 pm

    I love these items “on your radar!” My husband and I just spent 15 days driving on the PCH (well most of it) from San Francisco to LA in the first 2 weeks of September… stopping in all the small towns between and it was as lovely as your blog describes. I just found your blog and Instagram page right before this trip so it was exciting to see your photos and read all your recommendations. We’re planning another trip to Carmel and around to spend a little more quality time on the beaches and in the shops. Thanks for the Kamala tee and all your other items. I love your style.

    • kimwheeler says

      September 30, 2024 at 9:28 pm

      Wow that sounds like a lot of fun driving the PCH! Great time to go also. I think there are so many gems in the small towns of California. I’m so glad you like it and you found the blog too. Oh glad you are getting back to Carmel! It’s the best.
      Isn’t the Kamala tee good? Aw thank you!

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Blogger, writer and explorer sharing about my native California, and parts farther afield. Join me here where I chat about things to love in the worlds of design, fashion, home, travel and culture.

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Yes we are having a heat wave, but let’s talk abou Yes we are having a heat wave, but let’s talk about fall shopping..because I’m so ready for all things like cute polo sweaters, pinstripe pull on pants, soft sweaters, mocassins, bandana trimmed jeans, embellished barn jackets, lacy skirts, and all of it! 🍂🍁

If you feel the same, go directly to my Fall Wish List post and Cindy’s too. 
You can find the links in our bios or story or comment LINK! 
@northerncalstyle 
@cindyhattersley 

Let’s visualize chilly fall days!
Reality check on what’s really going on around her Reality check on what’s really going on around here! I’m so excited I am finally getting a Crate & Barrel atmoire/chest I’ve been looking at for three years. 🤯

In order to make it all work, we had to move everything around like Jenga and hope it fits.  I’m liking having this older chest in my office and the chairs back where Griffin’s couch was.
Some people have opinions, and hate any changes, but I’m ignoring them despite the meows!!!🐱
Have you ever been to a Firmdale Hotel? On the wee Have you ever been to a Firmdale Hotel? On the weekend blog, I’m sharing a gorgeous design book by the proprietress and designer, @kitkempdesignthread and her style.
She’s got her own dreamy hotels, rugs, wallpapers and more. Kit’s a genius of mixing color and pattern without fear, and adding in craft art pieces that give it all a wow factor. 

A few pieces of hers, like pillows -plus things to add to your house with a similar look and feel are on the blog.
If you want some fresh inspiration, it’s all on this post.
Link in my profile @northerncalstyle 
#kitkempstyle
There’s so many great things at Sézane right now, There’s so many great things at Sézane right now, including my dress (perfect for early fall) and all the cute new bags, scarves to fall in love with, and always great jackets. 

Sézane had changed up their style and so far I am loving their new look and cool collection for autumn.
More details in the weekend post!

If you aren’t subscribed, link in my profile.
@northerncalstyle 
#sezane @sezane #fallvibes
Summerland is cutest little town off California’s Summerland is cutest little town off California’s Highway 101. So many people have never been, including myself until last week when we stopped and I fell in love! 

The number one place here is the famous @godmothersbooks which had been on my list, and is a gathering spot for the community, besides two levels of the best collection of books and a cute courtyard cafe.

Next door is the @summerlandbeachcafe 
and three incredible home stores- @porch_summerland, @thewellsummerland, and @botanik_summerland Botanik. There is much more, but we had to get back on the road. I need to get back there and explore more.

Pop over to the blog and read more about this hidden gem of a town, that’s deserves a stop on your next California adventure. 

Link is in my bio
@northerncalstyle 

#summerland #godmothersbook
Thirty years ago today Max and I were married! Tim Thirty years ago today Max and I were married! Time has seemed to fly. It doesn’t seem so long ago my friends Ani and Chris told me I had to meet this guy Max.  Our first date was Mrs Doubtfire!  We talked until 3 am!  We were pretty inseparable after that, though we were pretty opposite. 
I learned to scuba dive and backpack for him -and he learned to love (okay abide) museums and Jane Austen films! 
We had so much fun raising our boys. He is the best person I know and I feel so lucky. 
Love you @trinidadmaxon
Did you know Venice’s Abbott Kinney Boulevard is a Did you know Venice’s Abbott Kinney Boulevard is an experimental spot for new retail and shops? We spent a few hours there last Saturday with our son Jackson who’s recently moved to LA. There’s so many fun concept stores and new brands to discover!
I bought a handbag for fall from an adorable brand @ciao__lucia and Jackson loved the shirts and pants @cookman.usa. We loved @ourplace with bright cookware and kitchen equipment. 
More details about my bag -and the cool brands on the weekend blog.
Link in bio⤵️
@northerncalstyle 

#abbotkinney
I have no words. Such a beautiful inspiring human. I have no words. Such a beautiful inspiring human.  I can’t listen to Dolly’s voice and song here without crying. ☹️🩷
I am grateful she was part of our lives. May her memory inspire more folks to be even half of who she was. 
#dolly 
@daily_dolly_parton
Happy Saturday! Don’t you love a little lamp on th Happy Saturday! Don’t you love a little lamp on the counter? I’m a fan of the soft light glowing as the day starts and later as twilight comes.  This one from @shophuntandbloom is perfect in size for my bar or a kitchen. I discovered H&B looking for plates for my kitchen wall. 

The weekend newsletter is up and I’m sharing my cute new lamp, a fig couscous, some gardening and more. 

Link to lamp on the blog link in my bio
@northerncalstyle 
or my story or comment lamp!💡

#counterlamp
Maybe jewelry is our gateway to an updated fall lo Maybe jewelry is our gateway to an updated fall look? Today on the blog, Cindy and I are sharing the trends, styling ideas, and some of the coolest pieces we have found in the jewelry space- and yes some of these pieces have an 80’s feel. 

Jewelry is getting bold, after years of ‘quiet luxe.’ I’m here for it . Let’s get louder!

Dig in the drawer, wear what you own, and mix it up. ✨Some ideas for that too on August’s Signature Style. 

Link in our bios
@northerncalstyle.com
@cindyhattersleydesign.com
Today on the blog, I’m sharing the best summer sal Today on the blog, I’m sharing the best summer salad you will ever make. This is a longtime favorite from my friend Alex who is an incredible entertainer. She always makes everything California casual, and seemingly thrown together, but it tastes and looks fabulous! 😎

This salad uses the best of summer so make it soon!
The salad 🥗 is…
~Washed butter and a mix of greens (not bagged right now)
~Watermelon cubed
~Baby tomatoes halved 
~3 ears of white corn (slice off uncooked and rinsed.)
~Red onion sliced
~Toasted pine nuts 
~Feta cheese crumbled ( I substituted mozzarella here as my feta went bad.)
~Poppyseed dressing. Yes bottled. Sorry, but it is so good. I used Brianna’s as the original recipe calls for it. 

Assemble and toss gently with the dressing. Top with pinenuts and blue corn chips crumbled are good too.

Alex’s salad is a great one to share at a gathering because it makes so much and can also be a terrific dinner with a protein added. 

The full recipe on a card to save is on the blog, along with other delicious summer food ideas from five friends.
Pop on over to the blog and visit my pals 
Links as always in our bios..
Mine⬇️
@northerncalstyle 

@makemineaspritzer 
@most_lovely_things 
@cindyhattersley 
@classiccasualhome 
@pineconesandacorns
Every summer I have to have at least one visit to Every summer I have to have at least one visit to Garwoods where the beauty of the lake is laid out before you and it feels like the Riviera with people boating in and families enjoying summer lunch on the beach here. 

The epitome of summer.☀️

@garwoodslaketahoe

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