• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Californians at Home
  • Home & Decor
    • Our California Remodel
    • Shop My Home
  • My Travel Guides
  • My California Closet

Northern California Style

Northern California Style

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Californians at Home
  • Home & Decor
    • Our California Remodel
    • Shop My Home
  • My Travel Guides!
  • My California Closet
    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Januarying, Pretty Shoes, Cath Kidstone, and More

January 9, 2026 By kimwheeler 47 Comments

On this post, re-setting for the new year, some pretty shoes, Cath Kidstone’s bright home, and more good things.

How’s your January going? Well I had high hopes for 2026. So far it’s been a rough start for America. I’ve got more thoughts on the end of the post here. I hope you’re getting outside, taking in some nature and maybe good books when you can. Some of us are more affected by the state of things. Some of us saw a video of a woman shot this week and it’s hard to think about much else.

The kittens and I have been tidying things up. I enjoyed a few nice afternoon reading with my orange buddy curled up to me. I still have the pink tree up and I was waiting for Griffin to come home, but he was stuck in Berlin with bad weather. I’m hoping he gets home this weekend. Now that the rains have stopped, we can put away the rest of the holiday things, and get a little hike in!

Januarying

I’m making it a word. It’s a thing. We’re trying to rebalance and look ahead and ease slowly into the year. January gives us an excuse to coast a bit and assess before we start back at everything.

One of the things I do about this time of year is a mini reset of my house and my eating. It’s not a resolution, but helps motivate me after eating my weight in chocolate, cheese and bread last month.

Eating reset

Just a couple of things I have done lately.

My grandma Jody always said we should look what is season and nature tells you what your body need to eat. Right now we have a lot of citrus, so I use it to freshen the house, and also add it to my salads, drinks, and as a snack. My dad brought me over a big bag of his tangelos and I’ve harvested a lot of my Meyer lemons. I’ve been enjoying those Satsuma oranges that have the knobby tops. Maybe that is a California thing, but they are so good.

Sunday or Monday I make a pot of oatmeal, and eat it all week. I cut up carrots, celery, cauliflower, radishes, and jicama to snack on daily with hummus on hand to dip for extra protein.

It feels healthy to start mornings with a little bit of lemon squeezed in hot water. I am lucky to have Meyer lemons in the yard, and I squeeze some every day in a warm glass of water before I make an oat milk latte. Every morning I have a small amount of oatmeal, a 1/3 cup of greek yogurt, and a big heaping tablespoon of peanut butter. I mix them together and add whatever berries we have, walnuts, and sliced almonds. It’s yummy and has a good amount of protein to start.

For lunches I have been eating a turkey and avocado sandwich on whole wheat pita bread. I like toasting the pita. I first slice about a 1/4 off of it, and put in the toaster. I then prop it open with the part I cut off to let it cool. It makes it sort of crunchy. If you get the whole wheat ones, they have 5 grams of fiber and I love the nutty flavor. I stuff it with a fistful of dark greens, a slice of provolone, half an avocado, and a big slice or two of turkey. I add a few of our cut veggies to the plate. It fills me up and I don’t really get hungry at all.

For a snack that has crunch and is lightly sweet, I have found these Trader Joe’s Trail Mix crackers. They have some protein and hit the spot dipped into some hummus for an afternoon snack.

I have a new teapot I am crazy about that Max bought me for Christmas, and I will have some herbal tea or green tea during the day.

For dinners I make salads with protein (lentils or chicken) and roasted veggies. I get a big box of dark baby greens, and one with crunchy lettuce like romaine. I also roast a big sheet pan of mushrooms, butternut squash (already cubed), small potatoes, and a red onion. We have them with a protein or add them to salads with chicken. We aren’t perfect, but doing a few of these things helps reset us a bit.

What I really need to do is get back at walking more and strength training. It’s been SO rainy and cold. I feel like I’ve been a sloth. Weekends are supposed to be dry for a while, so it’s a great time to get a nature hike in. Right now, being outside really helps my mental health with all that is going on. Don’t discount your walks. Every time I get lazy, I think of my 86 year old dad who goes almost 2 miles every morning!

I’m reading

A book for a fraught world…This week I began – Raising Hare. It’s a memoir by a young political advisor who inadvertently ends up raising a wild hare while holed up in the Cotswolds during the pandemic. It is a great escape from the busy world. This book is about slowing down, and how much love and joy can be found in simple things. So good reading it on some of these darker afternoons with a cup of tea.

I also have been indulging in A Place Called Home by Cath Kidstone. I found this at our local Barnes & Noble. It’s all about her country home and how it evolved over the years. I love the detail and love for all she used in this bright and cozy home. It’s a few years old apparently, but a still a best seller and I can see why.

You can also watch a tour of Cath’s other bright home in London’s Notting Hill below… and see it in House & Garden. Photos by Paul Massey.

Shoes and Jacket

I just took stock of all that I bought in 2025, and I bought very few things, but most of them were nicer quality. I sometimes waited a month or so to save for a more expensive, but nicer item. I hope to continue that trend. All I bought I adore and am excited to wear. I truly think if you wait and buy better things, and less you’ll build a beautiful collection of clothes.

Last week I shared I had ordered this Rails jacket I had my eye on. It arrived and I love it! It is still 30% off. I bought a small as it runs slightly large. I like the quality of Rails. The things are well made and always a chic spin on classics. I love the patch pockets and the fun fringe. You can wear this as a top too. I tried it with these slim jeans and a fuller leg pair.

MARION PARKE SHOES

Back in December footwear brand Marion Parke reached out to me to ask me if I would like a pair of their shoes. I choose leopard sling back flats that are gorgeous and unique. I bought my usual 8 and they were comfy right out of the box. They are maybe the nicest shoes I have owned. Aren’t they cute with the jeans and jacket?

Just for my readers you can get 15% off with code KIM15 .

If you want a shoe that is going to last years, feel good, and look beautiful – this is a great brand. Marion started as a foot and ankle surgeon, so she has knowledge of women’s feet and comfort is her priority, but these shoes are stylish too. The full Marion Parke collection here. Aren’t they pretty? I wore them with a red sweater for Christmas too.

Minneapolis

I cannot finish this post without mentioning the shooting of American mom Renee Nicole Good, in her neighborhood by ICE this week. I am still in shock about what happened. She could have been any of us. Seeing ICE target her neighbors, she drove by to stand with them. She was waving them to go through and then a few hot headed men told her get out of her car. She talked nicely to them and then attempted to turn and go when she was shot three times in the face. The fact is, she never put these men in danger. Trump and his lot, quickly labeled her an agitator and lied that she had tried to run the man over. Luckily we have many videos that refute that, and this NYTimes analysis is one of the most thorough I have seen.

We are spending billions of our tax dollars to terrorize Americans in tactical gear, with guns in masks. I shared this NY Times photo on my Loud Daughters because it really shows how intimidating and scary these men are. After they terrorized the neighborhood, they took down people at a nearby high school. The whole Minneapolis school district had to close for the week to protect students. If you saw this happening in another nation would you think it was okay?

Photo via NYTimes

Of those detained this year by ICE under Trump, 73% have had no criminal record and only 5% had a violent conviction. Obama deported 3 million illegal aliens with no violence and did not target people or racially profile. They used immigration records. Imagine that.

Did you know ICE is recruiting people with ads like, ‘Want to deport illegals with your absolute boys?’ They’re also using software to send ads to the phone web browsers and social media feeds of anyone near military bases, NASCAR races, college campuses, gun and trade shows. I’m sure you can see where I am going with this. They are targeting men who are young and who are pro-gun, and the alpha male sort, often insecure, not unlike the top men in this administration. Below are actual ads running by our own Homeland Security paid for by us.

If there’s anything that is making us all unsafe it’s insecure men. Trump, Stephen Miller, JD Vance, Rubio, and others are inferior baby men. Imagine if we had leaders who were empathetic and confident in their selves in charge. Maybe it needs to be women.

Will the ICE officer be held accountable? If he isn’t I hope we are marching in the street as a nation. I sure as hell will be out there if so.

Please watch this small video by the poetic Robert Arnold. He does a beautiful job of boiling all the noise down into what matters.

I could say so much more about Venezuela (OMG) and Greenland, but I’m sure you’re overwhelmed by now. Go to my @louddaughters for more on it all.

If you missed last week’s post, I shared a few of the things we did on the break, pretty neutral pillows and throws for a fresh start, a book to read now, a show to stream, and a sweater and jacket to grab before they are gone.

Cindy and I will be back later in the week with the first Signature Style of the year with sweaters to fall in love with.

Wishing you a good weekend with extra hugs,

Kim

Please stop by Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs for more good things…

PINECONES AND ACORNS

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

To get Northern California Style by email, subscribe to the blog here for a free post in your inbox every Saturday.

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

Filed Under: Home & Design, Weekend Meanderings

ON MY RADAR...

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Susan M says

    January 9, 2026 at 11:50 pm

    I am with you about post Christmas weight having devoured a large box of Sees chocolates (my sister brings them from America). Am now trying to be good, but it is so hot, I am hooking into cordial with soda water. Those shoes are really beautiful, I bought some Pretty Ballerina silver Mary Jane’s (very comfy) in Europe and the most exquisite pointed red patent leather flats (from Florence) with a white flower, but they really hurt my feet.
    The shooting of that young woman in the face is absolutely horrific and cannot believe anyone could defend that agent’s actions. The military and law enforcement agencies are there to protect its citizens, but now citizens need protecting from them. It is a shameful state of affairs.
    Good luck Kim with your get fit regimen.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:20 pm

      Susan See’s candies are the best! Cordial with soda water! I haven’t heard of that.
      Ooh those sound like pretty shoes. You have to be comfy though too.
      You are absolutely right about that Ice agent. xo

  2. Mary Ann Pickett says

    January 10, 2026 at 6:13 am

    Ok…I am chopping up veggies for the fridge in pain sight today. Love you in the Rails jacket. And the shoes are an investment but you will have them forever.

    • Mary Ann Pickett says

      January 10, 2026 at 6:14 am

      I meant plain sight…as in the first thing I see. At least all the Christmas cookies are gone.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:02 am

      Mary Ann thank you! I agree the shoes are a good investment and won’t go out of style, but will make any outfit. WE need more pieces like that!
      Isn’t that Rails jacket cool?
      Enjoy the veg. I am always so happy with myself when I’ve taken the time to chop them all. xo

  3. Annie Diamond says

    January 10, 2026 at 6:25 am

    Kim- I love your approach to resting your home and what you’re eating… januaring is the perfect term! I’ve started slower than I’d like to my January reset! But it’s starting!
    Those shoes are gorgeous! They could elevate any outfit with a simple switch of shoes and bag! They are so perfect for you!
    It is so horrifying what is going on in our country and how some keep defending the president and his administration is just beyond comprehension.
    Xo
    Annie

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:00 am

      Thank you Annie. You inspire me so much with your food and beautiful living. Yes Januarying is it!
      I caan see you in those shoes too.
      Thank you for caring about what is happening. It’s breaking my heart right now.
      xo

  4. Susan says

    January 10, 2026 at 6:42 am

    Before I ask my mundane question, I must comment on that powerful video by Robert Arnold. It put a lump in my throat, but I am so glad that I watched it. Thank you for sharing it.
    I am intrigued by your oatmeal and yogurt breakfast combo. I would not have thought to put those two items that I enjoy eating together. I presume that the oatmeal is cold when it is stirred in?
    Also, I LOVE your clothing style. Those shoes are fabulous.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 8:58 am

      Susan thank you. I think Robert is wonderful too. It really got to me.
      Sorry I warm my oatmeal and then mix in the cool yogurt. I guess it makes it more room temp, but still good.
      Oh gosh thank you! Love those shoes so much too. x

  5. tiffany says

    January 10, 2026 at 7:25 am

    Thank you Kim for introducing me to Robert Arnold. He is just amazing. Thank you too for continuing to say out loud what we all are thinking. You help to make sense of it all. And, you help expand my cultural world in so many interesting ways.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:10 am

      Tiffany I really love how he is so thoughtful.
      Aw gosh thanks so much. I am struggling with making sense of it all too. xo

  6. Francine says

    January 10, 2026 at 7:26 am

    Your post was just what I needed this morning. I love your concept of Januarying! A more inspiring way to approach the first month of the year. Thanks for speaking out about the daily horrors of the present administration. The murder of Renee Good has shocked me to the core. We just can’t let this pass.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:11 am

      Francine thank you for being here. Yes I thought we need to January because resolutions are too much this early in the year.
      I know we can’t let her death be in vain. I hope change can come and these goons will be shamed out of towns and cities. x

    • Peggy says

      January 11, 2026 at 7:28 am

      As a mother and grandmother of my family that live in the Minneapolis/St Paul area I’ve been on pins and needles! My friends say “ stop watching the news” ( I watch PBS) but I’m not one to put my head in the sand ! I’ve marched in every No Kings rally in my area and WILL NOT GIVE UP until this lot of pucks are gone !!

      • kimwheeler says

        January 16, 2026 at 9:21 pm

        Peggy I can imagine you must be worried. I would be.
        Yay stay strong. I feel like all of us are against this. xo

  7. Nicole says

    January 10, 2026 at 8:31 am

    Kim- I love your term “Januarying”. I agree with what you say about insecure men. Insecure people ruin everything. Unfortunately, I feel that there are many culpable women in this administration. I wonder why do they have these beliefs? It is a curious thing. Is it who they are or is this like some Darwinian way to be appealing to men they feel are powerful, but have yet to realize are the opposite? Just scared, insecure Jello souls walking around talking tough. Oh lord please give us *true* strength, grace and hope for these times. I am deeply saddened by recent events. You’re right- I feelmot could have been me or so many people I know not realizing the implications.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:16 am

      Nicole thank you.
      Yes insecurity has harmed so much. YES the women don’t get a pass. The blow-up dolls of this administration are a HUGE part of this mess. Trotting them out to be the explainers and excusers of the cruelty and hate, they are just as guilty- and insecure. No one else would take these kind of jobs. Jello souls. God that is spot on!

      I’m with you.. The truth, hope and faith is not much to ask for.
      Truman said ‘The truth is all I want for history.’ I wish we had a more men with his integrity.
      xo

  8. Jill says

    January 10, 2026 at 8:34 am

    Thank you for the Robert Arnold video. You are always so thoughtful. I can’t believe what’s happening to our country. I’m so sad. I love the shoes and your thoughts on January. You are a bright spot in a dark time. Take care.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 10, 2026 at 9:17 am

      Jill I am glad you liked the video too. It really got to me.
      Aw thank you. Sending hugs to you. These are dark times and this community is a safe spot for us all. xo

  9. Patricia says

    January 10, 2026 at 10:24 am

    Hi Kim,
    Januarying – yes, it is indeed a thing! Thank you so much for the reset motivation. Unfortunately I can’t do the decluttering and cleaning that I normally would – I have a slight fracture in my right wrist after what was truly a pratfall at home! I’m learning to do a lot of things with my left hand! But I love your meal ideas – I’ll pass them on to my husband. ;0)
    Mostly though, thank you for sharing Robert Arnold’s video – it is heartbreaking and beautiful. I’ve shared it on Facebook, I hope many others share it too. Every time something like this happens, be it a mass shooting or an individual person being caught up in dreadful state violence, I hope that this time, it will make a difference. But with this administration, with only Trump’s ‘morals’ as guardrail, well, I think we all know what that means. I pray that, when this is all over, not only Trump but also his henchmen- and women get their comeuppance, ideally room and board in prison. xx

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:24 pm

      Hi Patricia, Oh no! I hope you are taking care. I have had wrist fracture before and they are tricky, Hope the hubs can do the heavy work for you.
      Isn’t Robert good? I appreciate his voice right now. Thank you for sharing.
      I am afraid the ‘my own morality’ guardrails means we are on a collision course towards disaster with Trump.
      I am hoping for the same as you. xo

  10. Cath in Coastal BC 🇨🇦 says

    January 10, 2026 at 10:38 am

    Kim, here I am keeping cosy on this blustery very wet morning, reading your post with such mixed emotions.
    Firstly, on colder winter mornings ,when I need my breakfast to last for a few hours, porridge is made with added dried fruits, nuts , spices and a quick splash of milk and maple syrup. Heaven in a bowl ! Can keep me nourished right through my midday Pilates until a later light lunch at 2:00. Secondly, I discovered Cath Kidson in 2019 while visiting the UK , the Heathrow shops and in Windsor. Loved her colourful fifties style floral dresses thinking I would be wearing them here in sunny weather. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the opportunities of enjoyment as I had hoped, and kept just one that I must wear and love more. Consignment helped, as someone else must have found the other two. So interesting to see her beautiful personal home, and I agree with her love of an eclectic mix of pictures. I find things on my travels which are framed once home , and give me so much pleasure with the associated memories.
    I watched in horror at the recent events , and felt so keenly Robert Arnold’s eloquent and empathetic words. I totally agree with the descriptions of the men and women who think they are “in charge”… there will eventually be a reckoning and hopefully all will be humiliated and remembered as the worst of your America.
    Thank you , as always Kim, for adding a deeper dimension to your writing. I applaud your honesty.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:29 pm

      Cath, I love your version of oatmeal. I am going to try that. Love the maple syrup idea. I know it’s good for you versus sugar.
      How nice you had some of Cath’s clothes. I did not know about them. Glad you kept one! Totally love art with memories too. Let’s hope the reckoning happens. Some days it is harder than others to believe in it.
      Aw thanks Cath. Lovely to hear from you.
      Hugs

  11. Cath in Coastal BC 🇨🇦 says

    January 10, 2026 at 10:42 am

    Cath Kidston … needed the ‘t’.
    Feel free to edit my former post , Kim.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:29 pm

      I knew! xo

  12. Sue says

    January 10, 2026 at 1:09 pm

    Thank you for linking the NYT video. I hadn’t seen it and I think it’s very comprehensive.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:30 pm

      Sue I thought it was excellent too.

  13. Sarah says

    January 10, 2026 at 1:54 pm

    Thank you as always Kim for your thoughtful comments. The NYT video you shared, along with others I’ve seen, paint a pretty clear picture of what transpired. I’ve also read that the shooter had previously been dragged by a vehicle in a different incident, which makes his decision to position himself in front of a vehicle even more idiotic. The machismo factor combined with weapons and encouragement from our “leaders” is a lethal nightmare. This was so heartbreaking. Let us hope there will be justice for Good. I for one am not holding my breath.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:45 pm

      Sarah, Agree totally with you. The fact that this man is not even arrested or being charged after shooting is unacceptable. The machismo factor is exactly that… We are living it and it is getting worse.
      xo

  14. Francesca B says

    January 10, 2026 at 2:29 pm

    Hello Kim,
    Sending NY love to you and yours. Like many l have to recharge my brain after reading the news and go outside and walk amongst the trees and re focus on the natural world. My husband said to me today this year is shaping up to be worse than the last one.
    Love your tips for clean eating and taking care of yourself. I will do that!Thank you!

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:46 pm

      Hi Francesca ! Good for you getting out there.
      I know we have to take good care of ourselves in this state. I am afraid your hubs could be right. xo

  15. Diane says

    January 10, 2026 at 2:45 pm

    Thank you for the Robert Arnold video. Was not aware of him. My life has spanned presidents from Eisenhower to today and I never ever thought I’d live at a time when I couldn’t recognize my own country or feel such embarrassment about our loss of decency, morality and humanity. Doing what I can in my community and state to resist and protest the unlawful desecration of our constitution and the corruption of our government .

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:48 pm

      Hi Diane. I know it is a sad time for America.
      Thanks for caring and resisting. If we all do something, I do believe we can change things! xo

  16. Katherine says

    January 10, 2026 at 7:25 pm

    Hi Kim,
    The kitties look so sweet together. They look like good pals.
    The tea pot looks wonderful, a useful practical gift.
    Wow, all your vegetables look great.
    The Rails jacket and your leopard shoes look amazing. You rock.
    I have been heart broken what happened to Renee Nicole Good. It’s SHOCKING. These Ice people are thugs. What the Felon came out saying, calling Renee “domestic terrorist,” and the horrid things said against her and his administration added extra fuel to the fire. Come mid term elections hopefully we will see a big change.
    I did take a listen to the video it was very touching.
    Hopefully Griffin will be back soon. Sounds like he’s had a great holiday with his buds.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:49 pm

      Katherine totally feel the same. We have to hope the midterms save us from this menace.
      I hope you are taking care and AZ is having nice weather.
      Sending hugs.

  17. Linda Salazar says

    January 11, 2026 at 8:49 am

    Always look forward to your posts. 🤗 Looks like you are off to a healthy start this year!
    I make steel cut oats a few times a week, I add some chia seeds, walnuts, fruit and almond milk. In-between we eat avocado toast with a fried egg/tomato and a little sriracha but my favorite are my yogurt bowls. Organic low-fat plain yogurt, Purely Elizabeth granola, slivered almonds, strawberries, cacao nibs, and a little drizzle of honey. I try and make sure I have protein and calcium with every breakfast. I also make a smoothie every morning. My sandwiches are similar to yours adding sliced tomato, occasionally tuna instead of turkey. My husband’s co-workers always comment on his sandwiches!
    Love the Rails sweater and those shoes are adorable. A little jealous because I can no longer wear pointed toe shoes. Started to get hammertoes a few years back. (thanks dad for my long skinny toes)
    I was so upset after the shooting in Minneapolis. It was so obvious that it was intentional especially after the agent called her an expletive after he shot her. No way was it justified and the gaslighting coming out of the White House is totally disgusting. We all know what we saw and that agent was not hit. Witnesses also dispute what the administration is saying. Happy to see many protesters out yesterday., all over the country. My neighbor that’s the head of a local group was on the news yesterday at one of the protests that she attends every Saturday. I need to make it a priority this year to attend some myself and get my husband out there too. Heather Cox Richardson also said right before the shooting that the only way for us to get our country back is going to be up to the people. We must rise up!
    I have seen that particular Robert Arnold video but have watched a few of his other videos as well. He is spot on.
    Linda

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:55 pm

      Wow Linda your breakfasts sound so good! I am saving your ideas. I have to try the cacao nibs too. I think protein and calcium really are good for us. So far the shoes are very comfy, but I know we each have unique foot things!
      The shooting is heartbreaking . I think so much about her children and wife. You know calling her that name after he did it not in self defense, but in anger.
      Heather is right on. The only way we are going to make change is if the people demand it. Trump works for us and we can rise up in huge numbers. What is it going to take?
      xo

  18. Juliet says

    January 11, 2026 at 8:50 am

    Kim! Laughing over the eating your weight in chocolate and cheese, comment. I hear that. You’ve motivated me to buy some veggies and through together a pot of soup. It’s so darned cold and I guess it’s going to be freezing all week. Although freezing is a relative term, this is freezing for us. Anyhoo, it’s been a tragic start to 2026, and I thought last year was bad. Renee Good’s murder feels like a pivotal moment, but I think that and about so many – they’re piling up – atrocities committed by this administration against its citizens, and then we just move on. It enrages me to see those ICE ads. Yesterday there was video of an ICE agent slipping on ice (ironic) causing his gun to discharge (the safety wasn’t set). One cannot fathom our government unleashing untrained, unvetted, masked, secret police into the public domain to terrorize us. Enough of that. I adore your Rails jacket … and leopard slings. You look tres chic. You always look tres chic. Thanks for the books recs. Raising Hare looks like a comforting read. I need to do a deep dive on Cath Kidston. Obvi. xoxo

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 10:03 pm

      Juliet it is sadly true! I cut myself off from the chocolate now and the cheese.
      You are right, the atrocities are piling up and it has just been one year. How will we get through this with this man?
      Hope you can enjoy more of your books. We need the escape now.
      xo

  19. Linda Henderson says

    January 11, 2026 at 9:39 am

    I was so happy to see that you enjoyed Raising Hare. A bookseller recommended it and I found it to be so lovely. And I am always grateful for your thoughts on the state of our country and what we can do. I am 72 and have never been so worried.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 10:01 pm

      Linda it is so good!
      You are not alone about the state of things.
      Take care. xo

  20. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    January 11, 2026 at 2:47 pm

    Good evening Kim!
    I love the term Januarying, it is perfect. Winter is a time to slow down contrary to what social media would have us believe. We are supposed to hibernate, rest, relax and regroup. Our bodies need it and it gives us energy for Spring.
    Love your food reset! Oatmeal is one of my favorites too, it’t warm and comforting.
    Your new shoes are gorgeous! I am sure that you will have them for years to come and they look beautiful with the jacket!
    I did not purchase a lot either in 2025, and what I did buy I wear. I find as I age I need less and less and I am leaning into that.
    Enjoy the slow time friend.
    xo Elizabeth

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:59 pm

      Elizabeth,
      I so agree, we need less! Just things we really love too.
      Yay for hibernating. xo

  21. holly says

    January 11, 2026 at 9:11 pm

    Hello Kim,
    I am reeling from Renee Nicole Good’s murder as well. When I thought it cannot possibly get worse, it has. I have lost my balance and breath. I am lost at the moment.
    Januarying is a great addition to our language and I will use it in my practice. Follow the earth’s cues. Slow down. Nurture myself and loved ones. Listen to the quiet of the earth. Pause. Hug my soul as I breathe in the colder days. Sleep in. If I rise early, be careful with those moments in morning darkness. Don’t rush. Watch my footfalls as I venture on my morning dog walk. Be mindful that Mother Earth is resting and respect her quiet. Pause again. Soon we will all start to rise to the warmth and light but today, embrace the dark and hushed blanket. A gentle gift. Love it.
    I am so grateful for your recommendation of the book. I have had wild baby bunnies in my life and they are that gentle gift. Wild animals teach so much. My dog would argue this but then he is a silly boy and a joy. Even he is learning.
    Keep posting with your insights and soul. I miss you when you take a break.
    Be well.

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 9:58 pm

      Holly, This is beautiful. I am keeping this to read again. I am trying to do all these things.
      Are you a writer? You should be. I could read this every day.
      Thank you for the inspiration to take our time starting this year.
      Hugs to you

  22. Heidi says

    January 12, 2026 at 7:57 pm

    Hi Kim,
    Well it’s all just too much. If I couldn’t walk the beach I think I’d be super depressed right now. Instead I’m just depressed. The thugs that are ruining this nation are eventually going to have a mighty comeuppance. But in the meantime it is absolutely heart wrenching and so scary. I am so ashamed of this country right now. What the heck is happening?? Masks and weapons make little dumb boys feel like big shots. They are pathetic. We will stop them. Keep marching on!
    On to nicer thoughts. That jacket and the shoes are divine and I am feeling so much envy! They will be a part of your wardrobe for a very long time!
    I feel like I want to stop purchasing things and clear out the cobwebs in my closet. It’s gotten out of hand!! I need you to come help.
    I have lemon envy too, wish my little citrus trees wouldn’t keep getting attacked by critters. All the fruit is gone. I keep a basket of (purchased) lemons on my kitchen island, and always put lemon in my water. I make my own granola and hummus but haven’t been eating very healthy for a few years now. Need to get back to making breakfast and having 3 meals a day again, instead of my 1 meal and snacks. It’s nuts how a breakup will affect every little thing. I just need to get on with it I guess.
    I put out white and beige cushions annd throws, and everything feels calm again after the Holidays. The cats are loving my soft throws. They make little nests with them and always look so comfy! Wish I could join them!
    Ok, hope you see this, I know I read your posts a little late, but at least I saw it before your next one comes out!
    Xo Heidi

    • kimwheeler says

      January 16, 2026 at 10:06 pm

      Heidi, I know it is pathetic. We are run by insecure men at the top, and now in ICE. We need the men with brains to stand up with us. Let’s hope this all is galvanizing more of us.
      You have to take care of yourself Heidi. You do so much for others.
      Keep on with your yoga and good food this year. xoxo

Primary Sidebar

Welcome to Northern California Style

Welcome to Northern California Style

Featured Posts

My New Modern China Cabinet, and the Santana Row Lunch Event

The New Sezane Bags, Kit Kemp Style, and More

A Fig Couscous, a Cute Counter Lamp, and A Marin Home Tour

Clare V.’s French Home and a California Book & Scarf Giveaway!

Summer Alfresco Lunch With a Hawaiian Vibe

Tips from a Gardener’s Daughter – Start a Tomato Garden and Get Healthier

Get My Posts by Email!

Archives

Categories

Footer

Don’t Forget to Follow!

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.

Currently Pinning

  • Dining And Living Room Makeover Before And After
  • Simple Pear, Fennel And Spiced Pumpkin Seed Salad for Fall
  • Sunday Faves: Paris Edition, Souvenirs, What I Wore & Charming Hotel
  • Sunday Faves: Paris Edition, Souvenirs, What I Wore & Charming Hotel
  • Kim Wheeler of Northern California Style Home Tour | Most Lovely Things
  • Kim Wheeler of Northern California Style Home Tour | Most Lovely Things
  • Kim Wheeler of Northern California Style Home Tour | Most Lovely Things
  • Marketing photo for OSF Emma.
  • Old navy gauze shirt and skirt with turquois jewelry
  • jewelry looks for fall 2026
I’m hosting a fun fall shopping and styling event I’m hosting a fun fall shopping and styling event with @teamxblmvalleyfair next Thursday 3-5.  We’ll have some treats and a little surprise. It’s fun and a great time to get something for your wardrobe you’ll love!

If you haven’t yet gotten acquainted with Ba&sh yet, this is a great time to check out this brand I am obsessed with!

Bring a friend and make a day of it!  You can RSVP to Leslie at @teamxblmvalleyfair or let me know - or just pop by!
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

Copyright © 2026 · Northern California Style· Blog Design by Little Blue Deer