Heather Lindstrom 7/29/13 Heather Lindstrom 7/29/13

How to Create Resort Wear Out of a Bra & Belt (when your luggage is delayed)

Having no luggage for the first 4 days of our Caribbean vacation was a good reminder to always be prepared with well stocked carry on luggage. If you followed our trip to the Dominican Republic in July you will know that our journey took some unexpected turns.

Making a cocktail dress out of a bra and a belt when your luggage is lost on Stylemindchic Lifestyle

Cancelled flights in San Francisco following a plane crash, and an unscheduled red eye to New York City, were just the beginning. The afternoon and evening of Day 2 were spent with a quick trip into Noho and a little slice of heaven at Piccola Cucina in a major heatwave.

Darn those men-they still look good after the red eye--day 2. #boyfriend #luckyduck

This was me-day 3 of our trip same clothes/no luggage, at the airport in Newark. With a hot shower, good night of sleep and my 'survivor' makeup essentials* I was feeling okay (a hat will hide a multitude of issues). #blessthehat

Another flight, tropical humidity through customs, a long drive with a cranky driver, finally arriving sopping wet at the resort and I made a decision. It may have been more like a declaration...... I told my husband, Scott, "We are going in to the gift shop and not coming out until we are dressed in something else. Period."

There were itty bitty titty bikinis (no thanks!), a moo-moo that was road weary and one little flowy mini number that made my husband laugh. I felt a bit like a pinata.

That's where my fabulous DKNY bra comes in. In desperation (and a desire not to spend $200 on a moo-moo), I searched the rack of sarongs. Haven't I always praised the sarong as it 'rights' what is so wrong'?

How to create resort wear out of a bra and belt?

Thanks to my rather fashionable DKNY black bra (with gold detail), my black 'take me everywhere' belt, an extra necklace in my purse and gold sandals (Scott had put in his carry on last minute due to weight restrictions at the airport), I fashioned a new outfit that could take me to the beach and out to dinner at the resort.

Finally-something Fresh!!!

Next time my carry on bag will most definitely include:

Toothbrush/paste
Medications if needed #holyhotflash
Swimsuit (if beachy vacation)
A small size anti-frizz hair serum or cream
scarf/sarong
*The makeup essentials in my purse created my 'look' for 4 days.

Here's what I learned:

Lip color can add a touch of color and definition to cheeks and shimmer for the eyelids A touch up stick can hide a multitude of skin flaws and under eye 'baggage' Pressed powder smooths the look and adds some 'texture' to puffy hair. An eye pencil adds definition to the eyes-even without mascara I was lucky to find a sample pack of Chanel Vitalumiere in my purse (I had meant to take it out but was so thankful it was there-and in nearly my shade!) Body Lotion can serve as day and night moisturizer and even lip balm at night Hotels generally stock toothbrushes and sample paste at front desk.

I'll admit, Day 3 I broke down and bought a bronzer at the pharmacy.

I was in the Caribbean after all.

Finally, our luggage arrived!!

Let's head to that gorgeous pool.....

And the only lounge chair at the pool had 'caution' tape since they were building a pathway.

It was non-stop adventure on this first leg of our journey.

We decided to head to the beach.......... #makeitwork!

Wishing you smooth travels and always having just the right bra-just in case.

xx, Heather

Heather Lindstrom 7/25/13 Heather Lindstrom 7/25/13

Curated Hotel: Paradise Found at Zoetry Agua Punta Cana in Dominican Republic

Five days into our Caribbean vacation in the Dominican Republic we found it…..pure bliss. Our journey started with a flight to San Francisco just following a tragic plane crash–cancelled flights and an unplanned evening in Manhattan. Lost luggage and a tropical storm did not deter us from seeking our much needed R and R.

Five days into our Caribbean vacation in the Dominican Republic we found it.....pure bliss. Our journey started with a flight to San Francisco just following a tragic plane crash--cancelled flights and an unplanned evening in Manhattan. Lost luggage and a tropical storm did not deter us from seeking our much needed R and R.

Our first stop was Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana.

Smiling staff greeted us, after our 4 adventure-filled days of travel, with a fresh cool cloth, a glass of crisp champagne and a 'Welcome Home!' A perfect signature statement for the Secrets/Zoetry/Unlimited Vacations brand. We did indeed feel at home...finally. With a spa day, 24 hour room service and a tropical storm (that ended up being a sprinkle) we weathered the storm just fine. We were in paradise after all.

Our next stop was the Zoetry Agua Punta Cana.

This intimate, luxury spa retreat boasts just 51 suites. The concierge check in service, again with cool cloths, champagne and 'Welcome Home' was the perfect start to our 5 day stay. #tropical paradise

Just a few of the luxuries include free laundry service, daily champagne delivered to your room, 24 hour room service with an extensive menu, 3 times daily maid service, free wifi and unlimited international phone calls (though we did not make use of that service those with little ones at home did). Yoga classes, spa treatments, wellness consultations and healthier fare are all apart of the concept at Zoetry.

Cane thatched roof sanctuaries are the signature statement of this tropical hideaway. It is said that a number of movie stars and high-profile types come here for a completely private getaway, often taking a helicopter right to the beach on property. Rumor has it Cameron Diaz crashed a wedding party, and Beyonce and daughter Blue Ivy recently shared a mini-vacation here, so we fit right in ;). With 24 hour room service and spacious, spa like suites and balconies, there is almost no reason to leave the privacy of your suite (well maybe a couple of reasons).

Among them, world-class dining in intimate settings is not to be missed.

The lazy river pool winds through the resort with glimpses of private sun beds for napping and lounging.

The sugary sands of the Caribbean are soft and creamy under your feet.

The air is a gentle whisper on your sun-bronzed skin

and yes, it is truly......

paradise found.

My favorite travel companion/husband, Scott, often shares his take on our travels with Stylemindchic.

Scott's note:

Moving past the misadventures of our journeys, which make for frustrating moments and unexpected costs, but great stories... Between the beauty of the beach, being bathed in the moist tropical, air, the rustic but luxe thatched-roof rooms, and the fact that there were less than 100 all-adult guests, the setting at the Zoetry created an amazing balance between private relaxation and intimacy for Heather and me, and a sense of family connection with the guests and staff alike. (Staff was great at Secrets, but the pool party scene and crowded resort was not the scene we needed this time.)

A highlight of travel for me has always been the people we meet. There's something about vacation time that puts everyone in a chill, happy, friendly mood, and the fabulous conversations and shared experiences add heartfelt memories to incredible travels. "Where are you from, isn't this place incredible, what are you drinking?" This gets it started and leads to ongoing poolside stories--as much or as little as you want to engage in--shared dinners or beverages after dinner, and, this time, Bachata lessons! The good news, Bachata is an easy step to the right, 1-2-3-4-clap, step to the left, 1-2-3-4 clap. At least that's how it starts. Soon, you are watching the instructor wiggle his butt "gracefully", and being reminded it's been a long time since you did a formal dance spin in shoes that stick to the floor. The solution? Another rum Sangria! Or maybe even a MamaJuana (Yes, that's MAMA!) cocktail.

We are grateful to those who made our time there over-the-top good (including my birthday girl, Heather.) You know who you are!

So... Dominican Republic, we loved you. You and those at Secrets and Zoetry made this truly unique in our traveling and resort experiences--something we continue to hang onto days after arriving home. Okay, so the fact that we still have a few days off helps, but I'm blaming my ever-present smile on the Zoetry.

Aaah... time for another float at sunset and a tall glass of bliss.

If you are seeking a little sun and sizzle or ready to bask in rest and restoration this is your place!

I hope you've enjoyed the glimpse into our Caribbean getaway.

What is your favorite place for a little rest and relaxation?

Have you ever been to the Caribbean?

Heather Lindstrom 7/16/13 Heather Lindstrom 7/16/13

Birthday in Paradise at Zoetry in Dominican Republic!

I've always been secretly happy that my birthday is on July 15th and smack dab in the middle of summer. It means I've never had to go to school and usually not to work on my birthday.

This year the timing was perfect for my birthday as we are enjoying our last couple of days in the tropical paradise of Dominican Republic.

My favorite birthday companion #spoiled me a bit

With a significant number of difficulties marking the beginning of our trip this phase at Zoetry Agua has been completely sublime.

This little guy has kept us company during breakfast on our terrace.

Some spa time made the birthday girl very happy.

I'm not politically minded and I thought it was fun to see that Jon Stewart had 'favorited' one of my tweets.

Our dinner with some of our new fabulous friends from the pool. We laughed and bombed out at a merengue dance lesson together later.

Thanks for making my birthday perfect and hopefully we will all end up at Zoetry again someday!

I just wanted to say a quick thank you for so many lovely birthday wishes on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and text.

I feel truly blessed this year that my world has expanded in so many

incredible ways. The connections I've made with Stylemindchic Life mean the world to me.

Happy Birthday to my lovely mom today! Though we are separated by distance our birthdays always

stand side by side (she always tells me I was an early birthday present).

Looking forward to celebrating together.

Thanks for stopping by Stylemindchic Life!

Can't wait to catch up with everyone on our return.

xx,

Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!

Heather Lindstrom 7/13/13 Heather Lindstrom 7/13/13

Paradise Found at Zoetry Agua in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If you've been following Stylemindchic blog, and this journey to Punta Cana, you know that the early part of our trip was not an easy one. We had more than our share of delays due to the plane crash and lost luggage for days. We finally got our luggage and swimsuits when a tropical storm was forecast so the pool and beach were closed. There were challenges all around......(and a few bright spots too-an unexpected night in Manhattan and Juan at the spa, Clare and Carlos at Secrets-thank you).

As of yesterday we have finally arrived at our true paradise. Zoetry Agua Punta Cana here is pure relaxation, tranquility and zen bliss. We finally feel rested for the first time and intend to make use of every moment of the rest of our vacation. I will post more on this incredible place and if you are seeking relaxation, peace, luxury, privacy, gorgeous beaches with a healthy vibe this could be your place too. So far our favoritedestination ever.

And now, back to my vacation

(although posting from our thatched roofed terrace overlooking the lazy river and ocean is my idea of the perfect spot!).

My view from the terrace

Heather Lindstrom 2/25/13 Heather Lindstrom 2/25/13

Wine Country Getaway [Napa Style!]

Just a week ago Northern California was experiencing temperatures 15-20 degrees above normal which is pretty perfect for a long weekend. Scott and I had a getaway planned to Napa so the timing was good. On a sun-splashed day we got up early, threw open the sunroof and made the 2 1/2 hour trip to Napa. As we were driving over, I had a memory of a lovely estate off Silverado Trail. It sat high on the hill, with cypress lining the drive. The flagstone terraces flanked a perfectly placed vanishing edge pool....at least that is how I remembered it. I made it my mission to find it.....and we did!

Just a few miles up Silverado Trail, on an eastern hillside, just as I remembered it.......Signorello Estate.

That pool.......

Jacqueline, so much fun, set us up in her 'office' by the pool. She gave us the best start to our Napa Weekend.

Thank you Jacqueline (it was our pleasure)!

Signorello Estate

We had made reservations for a couple of nights at the Andaz Napa where we greeted with the utmost in friendly and professional service. There is no counter for check in at the Andaz, instead we were assigned a staff member for a seated check, via iPad, on the couch with a glass of wine.

Our suite at the Andaz Napa was wine country luxurious with a sitting room, see through fireplace and a sleek spa style tub and marble shower. The linens were pure luxury. We had stayed here previously when it was the Avia. In making the switch to Andaz (a Hyatt brand) I would say it has only improved in amenities and service.

We dined at the famed Celadon in Napa by the river. I have been a big fan since Celadon first opened in 1996 and a close friend of mine and Chef/Owner Greg Cole introduced us. This Michelin recommended gem of a restaurant delivers outstanding 'Global Comfort Food' and Greg's passion for food and wine continues to shine. I have hosted a bridal luncheon, a birthday party and other special dinners at Celadon and they always treat us with the best of care.

Taking an after dinner walk along the riverfront we happened across some live music at Silo's. We were not even close to being the oldest ones in the crowd which was a bonus (we live in a University town of Chico so that tends to be the norm). It was definitely the perfect night on the town in Napa.

This terrace at the Andaz Napa is the perfect spot for relaxing.....

Zuzu, one of our favorites for friendly, casual tapas dinner near the river.

New friends around the fire pit~perfect start to our evening!

Though the river is unusually low this year this is a great view of the new Napa Riverfront area. It's a mixed use blend of gourmet restaurants, boutiques and luxury town-home living. I've always been intrigued by mixed use projects such as this, it feels like a European style of living. Another new favorite this trip was a brunch at Grace's Table. They have excellent reviews and our dishes were wonderful with an international flair. The weather was so warm they opened up one wall of the restaurant for patio dining.

Miner Family Winery, one of our favorites.

"You know it's great wine if your smile turns purple!"

Wine Notes from Scott

A few things come together to make for a great tasting experience. Of course, the wine comes first. There’s just no sense spending time where the wine is not excellent or a style you love. Big, complex reds? Citrusy Sauv Blanc? Chardonnay with mineral or butter or oak? The other factors that make it for me are setting, and staff friendliness/expertise… oh, and cost. A friendly and generous host can make for a ton of fun. A packed room can be a pain, but it can also be a party. A tasting room with a patio or a view can make for a fantastic, lingering taste experience. For this trip, our first destination was Signorello, perched on the hillside with a spectacular view (here’s a little vid that shows the beauty:

History, wine and culinary education at it's finest!

It became our only destination that afternoon because it was a slow day—only two other couples there—our amazing “ambassador”, Jacqueline, hooked us up with a long, casual, poolside tasting. The wines were fabulous, ranging from crisp Seta, Chards on the mineral side, juicy Cabs, and their amazing, big and complex Padrone. We walked away with a 2007 Cab for a special future night. Other tastings: Miner Family—always interesting blends, along with the usual excellent standards (Stagecoach Cab!). Tasting here feels like family, and their patio encourages you to take your time. Our prizes? An Odyssey and an Oracle—medium and big red blends. Stags’ Leap: what can we say? Great Cabs, a beautiful, rustic setting, and crowded (it was a 3-day weekend). There are more tasting rooms popping up in town, now, so we hit a couple neighboring our hotel: pureCRU and John Anthony. PureCru had some good wines, but John Anthony’s were really good, and we had more fun there with Rozzy pouring. Again, with all the great wine in the valley, I’m going back for the fun!

I was wrangling photos with a funky tech thing (can anyone relate?) so I'm grateful Scott had time for some writing today. In previous posts I have shared my love for both the Napa and Sonoma Valleyin wine country getaways.

Do you have a favorite go to spot for a getaway weekend?

Heather Lindstrom 8/14/12 Heather Lindstrom 8/14/12

Getaway Rome & Umbria!

Glimpses of our trip from iconic vistas in Rome to the rustic, natural beauty of Umbria.

Oh Roma! We got up at 3:00 am and took four flights just to get a glimpse of you....

and you are so worth it!

This visit we stayed right in the city center with beautiful views.

Our room with a view~Rome June 2011 {The Trevi Collection}

Chico, California to San Francisco to Washington D.C. to Rome in a day!

Too excited to be jet-lagged--let's enjoy cafe life.

We stayed just a block or 2 from the Spanish Steps

Dinner on the Terrace-couldn't be happier, seriously!

Making new friends-everywhere!

Oh....the gourmet delights!

Iconic Trevi Fountain

Night scene near the Spanish Steps

Off to Umbria.............

From Big City Rome.....to tranquil, rustic Umbria, less traveled than Tuscany, and

filled with incredible hill towns just waiting to be discovered.

La Casella, an Eco Resort in Umbria where we stayed for a week. Rustic Umbrian village with a unique charm. It is a 45 minute drive into the villa on a gravel road. The simplicity and beauty were a unique experience. No phone, no email, no web, no English TV.....how do you say 'unplug' in Italian?

Our villa......pristine pool

The Simple life~bread, cheeses, vino, peaches and tomatoes, olive oil and aged balsamic, sweet basil......

a splash of lemoncello to end the night.

Orvieto, Umbria

(Scott-We rented this car at the train station on our way out of Rome. The line was a bit long, but became a party, of sorts. Yes, you too can drive in Italy! Not that hard, and loads of fun driving down the tiny streets in the center of an old hill town. Oh, and when you score a parking place like this, be sure to look for a meter, because parking tickets DO follow you home to the States. Note the blue "P" in the background.)

Our new wonderful friend, Franceso. Authentic specialty foods and the freshest produce of Umbria. Check out his website and be sure to visit him in Orvieto!

L'Antica Piazzetta Umbria~perfect afternoon on the patio.

Sleepy little town of Fabro. No English spoken here, but a woman suggested we go find the keeper of this church, and he would show it to us.

How do you say "You are welcome!" in Italian? We saw this guy every time we turned around.

This was the view from our table at dinner in Todi.

Another glimpse of the view-I can't help myself!

Loving the cafe' lifestyle

Gelato--a must have!! (Cioccolato, please.)

Perugia

Imagine driving on streets like this through beautiful towns of Cortona, Orvieto, Todi, Citta della Pieve

New friends~Colleen and Kevin from England ......

Lovely evening!

(Scott remembers that at 2:30 a.m. we looked at the time, and realized we might be annoying the neighbors!)

So much fun and so wonderful to hear of their adventures and their horse farm.

Enjoying the cafe life in Umbria.

More on the next chapter of our adventure another time....to Lucca, Italian Riviera and Paris from here. Scott, thanks for commenting as a guest blogger.