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!
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
Creating a Welcoming Guest Room
Be my guest! It's finally the summer season which means many of us will be doing some travel of some variety. It may be a luxury resort, a tour, a road trip, a camping adventure or visiting friends and loved ones for a vacation. With that in mind, I've been in the mood to update our guest room for summertime guests.
Creating a Welcoming Guest Room
Be my guest! It's finally the summer season which means many of us will be doing some travel of some variety. It may be a luxury resort, a tour, a road trip, a camping adventure or visiting friends and loved ones for a vacation. With that in mind, I've been in the mood to update our guest room for summertime guests.
Start with freshly laundered, high thread count (read smooth) sheets. I love to use all white sheets in our guest room for a fresh feel. I add a lightweight comforter, either down or hypo-allergenic (best for those with allergies). This bold black and white duvet cover captured my eye the other day and I'm liking the additional pop it gives the room. I layer on a colorful coverlet, this one is DKNY, folded at the lower edge of the bed which can be added for cooler nights to adjust the level of warmth.
I always add fresh flowers~tuberoses, freshly cut roses or white lilies have lovely scents. Gardenias are fresh and fragrant from our garden during the summer season. I like to float them in a pretty vase or bowl.
My mom, Jeri, is a flower lover and had fresh flowers from her garden in the house, most days, while I was growing up. This small tradition definitely makes life a little more beautiful.
Lightly scented candles (don't forget the matches!) are another favorite touch.My current favorite is the Dayna Decker candle. I always include an alarm clock but hopefully, no one will need to use it during a relaxing visit.
This glass dish is originally from my husband's family. Scott's mother had labeled it (using tape and waterproof pen) with this caption 'Daddy State's candy dish 1800's'. Labeling family heirlooms adds is an instant reminder to the family of the history of the piece. A history that might otherwise be forgotten.
Fluffy white towels are always a must in my house. Magazines for early or late night reading is a nice touch to deal with insomnia. I often include a travel magazine for dreaming about the next adventure. Putting items in a welcoming basket is a good way for your quests to know you thought of them in preparation for the visit. This Kai perfume oil smells like a tropical holiday in a spritz.
When I travel I easily get dehydrated so a carafe of water within easy reach is essential to quench the dreaded midnight thirst.I like to change out the photo based on who is visiting. Our girls are our most frequent overnighters so I love to use this one from our trip to Cabo San Lucas in 2007.
On a tray, I include some favorite spa items like the MOR body butter, sugar scrub, and fragrant soaps.
A light summer weight robe is also a nice touch to avoid any 'mishaps' around the house. #tmiThis chic number in Greek key motif is one of my favorites.
A corner chair is always handy for conversation or putting on shoes.
This little sparkler was a find from Target.
The vintage print and two petite florals painted by my mom, Jeri, many years ago are special to me. Aren't they sweet?
My final tip~Stock up on toiletries and extra supplies for guests in the guest bathroom. I always supply toothbrushes & toothpaste, lotions, deodorant, band-aids, anti-bacterial ointment, and aspirin.
Typically my recommendation is that a weekend or long weekend is the perfect length of time for a visit. You know what they say about how guests and fish alike don't you??(After three days they both begin to stink.......ha ha ha -just jokes here!!;) I tend to follow that rule when I am a guest in someone else's home as well.
Leave 'em wanting more.... also a great motto for life!
If you are welcoming guests this summer or being a house guest yourself,here's to long lazy mornings catching up over coffee, walking and talking, belly laughs and shared sunsets, with a glass of wine, enjoying those you love.
Are you having house guests this summer?
How are your travel plans shaping up?
Color Story: Coral Crush
I'm seeing shades of coral everywhere this season and I'm especially noticing how well it pairs with
shades of blue-from navy to turquoise.
I'm seeing shades of coral everywhere this season and I'm especially noticing how well it pairs with
shades of blue-from navy to turquoise.
This navy trellis wallpaper is super chic playing off the coral ikat.
Coral seems to play well at the cafes in Paris
Coral pairs beautifully with shades of mint
and turquoise
I needed a colorful start to our new week and coral did the trick.
Do you wear corals?
What are your favorite shades this season?
Al Fresco Life and Living Outside
Al Fresco Life
The al fresco lifestyle is all about taking life outside. It's finally spring (joy!) and that means we are gearing up for the season of throwing open our windows, carrying our movable feasts to dine alfresco, the alluring possibility of lazy afternoon naps on the patio and warm evenings under the stars is on the horizon.
In Italian alfresco means "in the cool". Love that!
It may be a fresh, sleek space with natural elements
or a classic, luxurious elegance with warm wood tones and a roaring fire.
There are elements of each photo that appeal to me. I've done outdoor living spaces of different styles over the years~from South of France to Cottage Garden to a sleeker, more modern version in our current space. We are working on an update and I will share more on that soon (yep-a do it yourself project-more honestly a do it 'himself' project).
No matter what my style of outdoor living space becomes I do have some essentials:
*Candles are a must to create an ambiance in my outdoor spaces.
*The sound of water~ a water feature, water fall or even a tabletop fountain~ creates a relaxing mood
*Fragrant plants (citrus, night blooming jasmine, tuberoses are all lovely)
*A throw blanket to ward off an evening chill
*A pot of herbs to pick for grilling or adding to alfresco dishes
*I love to add a curtain to a deck or patio space to soften the look-even in sleeker styles
*A fire element. Yes, to candles and the next step would be a flickering fire bowl or fireplace to set the mood.
What is your favorite style of outdoor living? Do you spend time zhushing up your space to get it ready for the season? Any tips?
What are your must-haves?
Here's to our upcoming al fresco season~are you like me? Can hardly wait!
Tips for Creating a Home Spa Experience
There are some weeks when there is nothing like a little time to yourself to help rejuvenate and restore. Taking an hour or so of quiet time, paired with a soothing at-home spa experience, is one of my favorite ways to refresh.
My home spa
There are some weeks when there is nothing like a little time to yourself to help rejuvenate and restore. Taking an hour or so of quiet time, paired with a soothing at-home spa experience, is one of my favorite ways to refresh.
I have a few 'home spa' musts~
*Luxurious, plush white cotton towels
*A comfy, absorbent robe like this from Barefoot Dreams
*A cozy wrap for staying cozy between treatments
*A fragrant candle (like my Dayna Decker here)
*Soothing, calming music (Spa channel on Satellite or anything 'Chill' on spotify)
*Facial Masque-Caudalie is a favorite that I picked up in Paris
*Clean scented soap that lathers like this from Peter Thomas Roth
*Body sugar scrub and body wash (MOR is my current favorite)
*Richly moisturizing body cream from Peter Thomas Roth
*Dry oil for body from Nuxe
*Mia by Clairsonic for face-it's changed my skin!
Kai Glow body oil spray-like a mini vacation on a tropical island
A favorite scent such as Kai.
To find the perfect Day Spa, yoga or pilates spa I use Spa Finder:
It's the perfect way to send the most luxurious and nurturing gift card to someone you love.
Another must have for spa time is a splash of spa water. I slice lemons and cucumbers and place in a pitcher with cool water. It's refreshing and has detoxifying and diuretic properties.
I've had these for 10 years and I am still enchanted by these vintage perfume bottle prints.
Now if you'll excuse me, there is somewhere I need to be.........
creating-home-spa-experience
Are you like me? A little soak and a little spa therapy makes a new woman out of me.
Ambient, candlelit and luxurious............
![Wine Country Getaway [Napa Style!]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a66444d017db2e6975e076e/1527984208254-1ZJ5T4O1T43P817SUFSR/DSC03099.JPG)
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 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)!
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?
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.
