Curated Hotel: The Sonoma Mission Inn + the Surprising Power of a Surprise!
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott’s birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, “Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!”.
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
A Holiday Getaway
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott's birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, "Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!".
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
We had a mixture of showers and sun on our drive over to wine country. With the early rains here in Northern California we were pleasantly surprised to see how beautifully green the fields were already. Our first stop was at St. Anne's Crossing Winery in Kenwood. This picture perfect spot is a member of the Wine Club we belong to. We had a delicious tasting with a number of award-winning wines. Next off, it was just a short drive to the famed Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. I could see that my birthday boy was very pleased with his surprise!
For dinner we headed out to OSO, the brainchild of famed chef David Bush on the historic Sonoma Plaza. Oso was recently rated one of the top restaurants in Sonoma and I had a feeling Scott would appreciate the rustic modern feel and the foodie style menu. The small plate selection was amazing and the service was friendly, yet impeccable. We had the pleasure of complimenting Chef Bush on his success and the outstanding dining experience.
After a leisurely morning strolling the grounds and an indulgent breakfast at Sante, we headed through the countryside into Sonoma for some shopping and a Mediterranean-style lunch at La Salette.
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is the quintessential wine country resort. I have stayed here several times over the years but this stay was by far my favorite. I highly recommend their large menu of spa services if you have the time. The resort has recently been updated and I appreciated the extra amenities of luxurious linens and Le Labo bath products. Our getaway, and the destination, was such a fun surprise to my husband. If you are looking for a way to delight someone you love I recommend the surprising power of a surprise getaway.
To Stay: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
To Sip: St. Anne's Crossing Winery
To Savor: Oso, Sante, La Salette
For more on travel to Wine Country
Are you finding any places especially festive this time of year? I'm booking travel for clients and I love to hear your recommendations for holiday cheer.
All Images Heather Lindstrom
Thank you to the Sonoma Mission Inn for a suite upgrade and welcome bottle of sparkling wine.
A Stylish Wedding at Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy
On the next leg of our summer in Italy, Scott and I found ourselves in Siena, the embodiment of a medieval city and jewel of Tuscany, on a lazy July afternoon.
A Stylish Wedding in Siena, Italy
On the next leg of our summer in Italy, Scott and I found ourselves in Siena, the embodiment of a medieval city and jewel of Tuscany, on a lazy July afternoon.
This was another golden, cloudless day strolling the Piazza del Campo. Locals and visitors enjoyed the slow pace of a warm afternoon. Children frolicked with pigeons on the moss-covered pastel bricks.
Our mission was to select the daily dose of gelato: gianduia (chocolate/hazelnut) for me and a double scoop of limone and stracciatella for Scott.
We happened upon a stylish scene and enjoyed watching the wedding festivities unfold.
Undoubtedly, Italy boasts some of the most elegant, stylish people-watching in the world. There are times, while traveling, where a moment just captures our attention and the camera helps it come to life. This was one of those moments for us, in Tuscany, the jewel of Siena.
Now that's amore!
Ciao!
Contact me to book your dreamy getaway to Italy.
Signature Style: Fall Edit
Have you given much thought to your signature style? The older I get the more I feel the desire to hone in on my unique style, have laser focus on what I have that works (and what doesn’t), clear the clutter, donate to those in need and simplify my style. Rather than more is more, I’m taking a less is more approach: less clutter, less mindless purchasing and more refinement of my style. This is my vibe, especially for this stage of reinvention in my new lifestyle.
Signature Style: Fall Edit
Have you given much thought to your signature style? The older I get the more I feel the desire to hone in on my unique style, have laser focus on what I have that works (and what doesn't), clear the clutter, donate to those in need and simplify my style. Rather than more is more, I'm taking a less is more approach: less clutter, less mindless purchasing and more refinement of my style. This is my vibe, especially for this stage of reinvention in my new lifestyle.
I pulled some style inspiration from my "Fall Style" Pinterest Board for the gallery:
Do any of these looks speak to you of fall?
Signature style: Fall Edit
Notes: Must haves - Asymmetrical sweaters for layering, a camel trench, a structured shoulder bag, an on trend mini-bag, silky blouses, slim cut pants, leggings, a knit tunic, boots- knee length and booties - and statement jewelry. I often choose stacked beads or bangles, with gold details and mixed metals. Camel, caramel and chocolate are fun when popped with bold colors, like sunflower or pumpkin. Blush and dusty rose remain strong for the season. If you do a feminine look (like the skirt above) edge it up with a textured sweater or leather jacket and boots. There is power in a monochromatic look. Stripes add a bold edge. The navy and black pairing is always sophisticated, and often unexpected. It's all about the boots for fall!
There is nothing like slipping into my leather boots, for the first time in fall, to feel like the season has truly arrived! We are in for a big storm here in Northern California this weekend and boots will be a must for me. Have you donned your boots this season?
We have a quick trip to Lake Tahoe planned in the near future.
The leaves should beautiful this time of year. Those boots will come in handy!
What is your signature style for fall this year?
xx,
Curated Hotel: A Chic Afternoon at Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano
We leave the seductive, photogenic Amalfi Coast with one last peek; a chic afternoon on the terrace at the luxurious Le Sirenuse Hotel. The iconic hotel, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, has launched a thousand fantasies, mine included. Who can forget those scenes in ‘Under the Tuscan Sun‘ with Diane Lane and Raoul Bova filmed in Positano and Le Sirenuse? There are no words to describe the relaxed luxury of a world-class hotel like this. I’ll let the images tell the story.
We leave the seductive, photogenic Amalfi Coast with one last peek; a chic afternoon on the terrace at the luxurious Le Sirenuse Hotel. The iconic hotel, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, has launched a thousand fantasies, mine included. Who can forget those scenes in 'Under the Tuscan Sun' with Diane Lane and Raoul Bova filmed in Positano and Le Sirenuse? There are no words to describe the relaxed luxury of a world-class hotel like this. I'll let the images tell the story.
First, may I interest you in a glass of rosé?
To keep things from becoming too serious, the staff brought around mini ice cream bars, on silver platters, no less.
Though Scott and I didn't stay at this luxurious hotel on this trip, we stayed just one address up. We shared the same views, amenities and ice cream bars as those staying at Le Sirenuse for one-fifth the price. This is just one of the travel tips I'm excited to be sharing as a guest travel/lifestyle blogger and travel consultant over at Style Maniac today with the fabulous Doreen Creede. Be sure you stop by Doreen's stylish site; I've been a fan since before I started blogging four years ago.
We are meandering our way through Italy.
Contact us to book your dream travel to Italia and Le Sirenuse with VIP perks and upgrades!
Boating to the Dreamy Isle of Capri
I have daydreamed of Capri. Cerulean blue waters, pastel buildings, brilliant hues of bougainvillea and windswept trees gracing the terraced landscape. The lemon-scent mingling with fragrant notes of wild rose and sea air. I could feel the gentle waves of the bay lapping against the boat. I am mesmerized.
You will be greeted with this picturesque scene at Marina Grande when you arrive by boat.
The Dreamy Isle of Capri
I have daydreamed of Capri. Cerulean blue waters, pastel buildings, brilliant hues of bougainvillea, and windswept trees gracing the terraced landscape. The lemon scent mingling with fragrant notes of wild rose and sea air. I could feel the gentle waves of the bay lapping against the boat. I am mesmerized.
You will be greeted with this picturesque scene at Marina Grande when you arrive by boat.
From here visit the beaches with flanked by colorful umbrellas, rent a boat to tour the island or stop in at one of the stylish cafes. When you are ready to see more of Capri, catch the funicular railway up the mountain to the soul of Capri and La Pizzetta.
Take in the breathtaking views, enjoy a Caprese salad at a trattoria with a view, shop the stylish boutiques and enjoy more of the European chic vibe of Capri. We took a bus up a very winding road to AnaCapri, high atop the island. In the warm July weather, we found there to be fewer tourists and more of a chill vibe in this area.
After lunch at a lovely café, we took a stroll through the statue-lined gardens at Villa San Michele.
The views from here are breathtaking.
Capri Style
Be sure to make time to grab a glass of Sancerre at Piazza Umberto, and enjoy some of the most stylish people-watching in the world. Celebrities mingle with chic Europeans in this destination. Rumor has it the night life in Capri is legendary. Ultra-luxe yachts line the harbor, especially in summer, from which the celebrities are known to come out only at night for dining and to party the night away.
The ironwork and decorative details of AnaCapri captured my eye.
Capri Vibes - 2016
Fitting in with the Capri crowd with our black and white filter. If ONLY that could work in real life on some days, right? ;) For our next visit to the Campania region of Italy we will plan to spend a few days on the magical Isle of Capri. Heavenly!
Signature Style: The Power of Shoes + Iconic Beauty of Italian Shoes
I recently went through my shoe closet to see just how serious this addiction is.
I must confess, I have a thing for shoes. On a bleak day last February, I did something I've long wanted to do. Inspired by the classic book on organizing by Marie Kondo, "The Life-Changing Magic of tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing", I had a burning desire to start decluttering with my shoe collection. As I hauled out, let's round it to 45 pairs of shoes (please don't judge- shoes are my thing!), I realized the right pair of shoes can have a transformative nature. I spotted the Grecian gold stilettos that transport me to the island of Capri simply by slipping them on, the leopard print flats that make me feel instantly sporty, the nude booties that are comfy AND go with everything in the fall and winter, and the flat black riding boots that make me want to crack a whip into the air in the English countryside. Care for a spot of tea? I spotted the black shoe/boot that may not be an "all day" shoe but make me feel instantly a bit edgy and sexy. Yep, the right shoe can do that, have you noticed?
As I stared at this collection, curated over time, I realized these shoe, sandal, and boot 'soldiers' have carried me through many chapters of life. Some of them are looking a bit worn, but so am I. From dress up date nights, to running in heels during my career as a school psychologist, to walking the halls of a hospital when dad was ill; these shoes have walked with me. I had to take a few moments to reflect, to ponder what I needed to keep and what I was ready to let go of. In the end, about 8 pairs made their way to donation or consignment. I recommitted to a few pairs I had forgotten about. I decided I am not ready to let go of the memory, or the transportive power, not just yet.
And yes, when Scott came home to this scene, he thought I'd lost my marbles. ;)
I don't have many super fancy pairs of shoes though some of my friends would disagree with that. I do have a couple of gifted pairs from St. John, where my sister, Dorie Swanson, was a designer for many years. St. John Knits is an American brand, located in Orange County, yet their shoes are made in Italy. These beauties with the sparkling "anklelace" (it's not a necklace) have made their way from my closet to a party and have been tried on by more than a couple of friends. My beautiful friend, Lena, slipped them on during my retirement party. Don't they look fab on her?
Shoes made in Italy are part art, part architecture.
In the memorable words of Carrie Bradshaw, from Sex and the City, when she saw a fabulous pair of stilettos, "Hello Lover!".
In my book, quality shoes are the first item to consider when building a signature style. On a practical note, our weight may fluctuate, but shoe size tends to stay the same over time. I conclude that shoes are an excellent investment. They are also perfect mementos to bring home from travels--especially from one of my favorite places: Italy.
My number started at 48 pairs. What's your number?
Are you a shoe aficionado like I am??
5 Surprising Things I've Learned in Retirement [Pt. 5]
5 Surprising Things I've Learned in Retirement
1 - It's surprising, I only need about 1/3 of the current wardrobe in my closet. Most of those pencil skirts, silk blouses, short jackets and mid-height heels are simply not as necessary with my new lifestyle of working from home. Hello consignment shop and donations bags for the items that don't thrill me! I will need to spend some time creating my casual/active wear day-to-day style but I'm not in a huge rush. For now, I'm weeding through what I already have and no longer need. That process always feels good.
2 - Integrating my work office and my home office spaces was more difficult than I anticipated. Odd little things like which stapler, pencil cup or desk accessory to keep for my home office space gave me pause. Some of these tools had been my daily essentials, in two separate work spaces, for many years. Figuring out what to keep and what to get rid of took some time so I decided not to rush the process. I'm finally completely unpacked and organized into my home office space.
3 - It is no surprise that waking up to an unstructured schedule reduces a tremendous amount of stress. It's a bit like a perpetual week of Sundays and it's a life changer! I feel like I can now plan my days, weeks and life with more intentionality. One of my main goals has been to restructure my priorities and fitness is right at the top. One of the best changes is that I've added a consistent yoga/Pilates schedule to my week and have even started scheduling them in my calendar. When I make an intentional appointment it helps with my commitment. Though it could be tempting to loll on the couch and watch reruns of "Flipping Out" or "Below Deck", I'm finding my days are quite busy and productive.
4 - When you make a big life change, and leave a day-to-day workplace behind, you can't know how much you will stay in touch. I'm happy to report that friends/colleagues from my former workplace want to connect. I've been surprised at how many texts, calls and invitations I have received. It feels good not to be forgotten. I also find that I'm more of a "Yes" person now. My husband (the more spontaneous one) loves that I agree to more gatherings and events now that I'm not as stressed out with work.
5 - Despite the euphoria of retirement -- real life intrudes -- no surprise. Whether it's a medical issue, as with our sweet kitty, Jack, or the ongoing concern for a close family member struggling with serious addiction issues, real life is that rude awakening sometimes. It is easier to be consumed with worry, or attempt to solve problems beyond control, when you have more free time. It's important to stay focused on life balance, especially when serious issues creep to the forefront. Keeping that balance is one of the main reasons Scott and I committed to turning off the phone and celebrating our 16th wedding anniversary last weekend. It was lovely and thank you for the wonderful wishes!!
Have you been surprised by anything lately??
The Life Changing Power of "I Do"...Happy 16th Anniversary, Baby!
On a warm and sultry California evening, in a lush garden, we each said two simple words, "I Do". That was sixteen years ago. Today, we look back and reflect on how much those two little words changed the course of our lives.
On a warm and sultry California evening, in a lush garden, we each said two simple words, "I Do". That was sixteen years ago. Today, we look back and reflect on how much those two little words changed the course of our lives.
As we celebrate today, I feel like my sentiments in this post continue to express how I feel. Add to it an additional four years of life experiences, adventure, travel, nurturing and growth. Never more than today, I love you with all my heart, Scott Lindstrom. Happy Anniversary, baby!!
"I Do!" The two most life changing words I've ever uttered. I'm so glad you said them too.
PS - It doesn't hurt that you look like a movie star in a suit!
The sparkling surprise last year.
Cheers to the journey of love!
