Brunch Style: Living on the Fringe with Uno Alla Volta
I have a new appreciation for brunch dates of late. Scott and I headed to one of our favorite brunch spots in Chico last Sunday, Two Twenty Restaurant, at Hotel Diamond. We were crushing on the 1955 Bel Air wagon parked out front. Nothing like cruising to Sunday brunch in style!
On the Fringe with Uno All Volta
I have a new appreciation for brunch dates of late. Scott and I headed to one of our favorite brunch spots in Chico last Sunday, Two Twenty Restaurant, at Hotel Diamond. We were crushing on the 1955 Bel Air wagon parked out front. Nothing like cruising to Sunday brunch in style!
It was a warm day and a flouncy dress was the best choice to keep my cool. I grabbed my new suede Florentine Fringe Clutch to mix up the look with a 70's vibe. This clutch is handcrafted in Florence, Italy, by Elisabetta and Alessandra for Uno Alla Volta. I'm wearing my favorite grayc glass necklace, as usual!
Translated from Italian, "uno alla volta" means "one at a time". This brand creates unique, artisan collections from around the world and makes them available conveniently online. I'm a fan of their luxurious leather bags, Murano glass jewelry and home decor pieces. With our travel to Italy last summer deeply embedded in my memories, I always appreciate a touch of Italy here in California.
For more on Uno Alla Volta.
The Florentine Suede Fringe Clutch was gifted to me by Uno Alla Volta. All opinions expressed are my own.
Retirement for Two: "So What Do I Actually Do Now?"
I’ve received so many comments and emails about my retirement series as I made the leap from school psychologist to launching my Curated Travel business, a year ago. From making the bold decision, to steps along the way, saying goodbye, even my changing spending habits, I chronicled my journey this last year in these posts: Retirement Series. There are a number of readers who are planning on retirement in the near future and curious about how it feels to go through this experience. It’s been fun to share our experience.
Retirement Update:
I've received so many comments and emails about my retirement series as I made the leap from school psychologist to launching my Curated Travel business, a year ago. From making the bold decision, to steps along the way, saying goodbye, even my changing spending habits, I chronicled my journey this last year in these posts: Retirement Series. There are a number of readers who are planning on retirement in the near future and curious about how it feels to go through this experience. It's been fun to share our experience.
As of early July, we started a new chapter in this journey and that is retirement for two. At one point, Scott and I contemplated retiring at the same time, but it's safe to say we are happy that I've had a year in between to build my business. A huge benefit of us each having 20+ years in education is receiving a retirement pension and we are both grateful for that resource in our retirement.
It's been a relaxing summer, and we've had lots of pool time, trips to farmer's market, trying new recipes, cooking together, and spending time with family and friends. We've been embracing a slower paced life. Now that Scott is finally retired, we have SO much more flexibility in our schedule. Truly the flexibility with time is the very best thing about the retirement lifestyle. Oh, and the major reduction in career stress too. The first morning after he finally moved out of his office, and it was all over, Scott and I were sitting in bed with coffee and he asked me, "So what do I actually do now?" He was serious, but it cracked us both up!
Scott is a man with many hobbies and interests - cycling, guitar playing, singing, writing, Christmas decorating (in season-thank goodness!), and spending time with family and friends. He is also now dabbling in yoga, cooking for me and considering pickleball (that's a thing for retirees in Chico). He may even show up here on the blog from time to time to share more of our travels. He is also building a consulting and training career to continue supporting kids, families, and professionals. Of course, becoming grandparents in November is our most exciting chapter ever!
We're definitely having fun figuring out the new normal around here. I've also realized that it is pretty tempting to spend less time in my home office now that I have this man hanging around with so much free time. We are looking forward to more travel in our future (all that flexibility), and we have a celebratory "retirementmoon" coming up for Scott. I'll look forward to posting on our Jamaican getaway in the near future.
If you are contemplating the leap into retirement, or a change in career, I highly recommend it. Plan and prepare the best you can and then take the leap. It is totally worth it to be bold and follow your dreams!
Let's talk travel! Feel free to book a complimentary curated travel consultation in the sidebar
or email me at Curated Travel .
Ocean Vs. River Cruising: Which One is for You?
When it comes to taking a cruise on river or ocean, it’s pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to explore interesting ports.But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences?
One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members.
Ocean vs. River cruising: Which one is right for you?
When it comes to taking a cruise on river or ocean, it's pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to explore interesting ports.
But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences? One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members.
That smaller scale translates to all areas of the river cruise. You dine on a regular schedule at tables with other passengers (wine is included in the price of the cruise). Instead of 50 different things to do on board, amenities tend to be more modest with river cruises — think libraries, a workout room, cultural programs, and free Wifi vs. ten kids’ playrooms, glitzy Broadway shows, and a skydiving simulator. There tend to be fewer kids on river cruises, making them popular for couples seeking quiet and relaxed time together.
You stop almost every day at a new port with river cruises, often for walking tours through quaint towns with little tourist traffic, and you’re always in view of land. With ocean cruises, you can go days without seeing land, and ports of call and excursions tend to be more exotic and high-adventure.
Because of their larger size, ocean cruises offer plenty of options for many ages, from young kids to octogenarians, and they are often more able to accommodate a wide variety of special health needs. For this reason, they tend to make the best option for multi-generational family gatherings that include young children. For the traveler who is into high-octane adventure, ocean cruises provide a wide variety of activities on board, as well as exotic and more daring day excursions.
River cruises do tend to be more expensive per person — but that price also includes more things. Ocean cruises have a lower sticker price per person, but you are often charged extra for alcohol and other amenities.
When you’re getting ready to plan your next on-the-water trip, here are a few questions to consider:
- How many people are traveling? What are their ages?
- What time of the year do you want to travel?
- Do you need the amenities of a mega ship — spas, gyms, a dozen restaurants, and many activities? Or are you looking for something calmer, more intimate and easy-paced?
- Are you seeking authentic intercultural experiences? Or do you prefer more familiar settings?
As always, I’m here and would love to discuss your next cruise or vacation. We can look at all the moving parts of your upcoming trip — what you need, what you want, what your dream is — and together we can come up with a cruise you and your loved ones will remember fondly for the rest of your life.
For more info on this cruise or others with Princess: Princess Cruises - Eastern Caribbean Explorer
Contact Heather to book your next getaway!
CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados
I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future. While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.
While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.
DREAM DESTINATION: Cobblers Cove, Barbados
I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future. While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.
While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.
The details about Cobblers Cove Hotel
Cobblers Cove Hotel offers 40 guest suites (560 square feet) in six two-story white buildings with green trim, and in the three-story pink Plantation House built in the 1960s. Suites have balconies or ground-floor patios accessible through louvered doors and furnished with cushioned reclining chairs, footstools, and cocktail tables. Ceiling fans and air conditioners are available in all rooms. Living rooms contain sofa beds, wing chairs, two-chair dining sets, coffee tables, desks--all ivory-colored rattan--and wet bars. Bedrooms have caramel-colored rattan furniture and white bedspreads. Walls throughout are cream-colored, the ceilings white, and the floors terra-cotta tile accented by straw area mats. Bathrooms contain twin-sink marble vanities and shower/tub combinations, with bathrobes available. The resort is designed for rest and relaxation. Suites contain no televisions, radios, CD/DVD players, or VCRs though all are available on request.
Cobblers Cove overlooks a stunning white sand beach and man-made breakwater with an array of marine life. For relaxing on the beach or by the freeform swimming pool there are comfortable and elegant sun loungers and umbrellas. For those wishing to be more active, there is a variety of activities from tennis to water sports.
Activities
Water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and Hobie cat sailing are complimentary, as well as a fully lit tennis court. Independent operators offer personal watercraft activities off the beach and parasailing and scuba diving nearby.
Spa
At the Sea Moon Spa, therapists trained exclusively in Pevonia Botanica, an all-natural line of skin care products for men and women of all ages, ethnicities, and skin types, tailor treatments to each individual guest after a careful assessment of the skin’s condition.
De-aging, exfoliating, stress reduction, and massage are some of the services offered. Tropical fruits such as mangoes, papaya, and pineapple, are known for their ability to soothe and moisturize the skin. These fruits enhance the complexion and deliver a youthful glow while being free of the harsh ingredients, chemical irritants, and emulsifiers found in many conventional beauty products.
The hotel is a member of Relais & Chateaux. To learn more or book Cobblers Cove contact us!
A Bridal Brunch in Newport Beach: Roses and Rosé at Zinqué
The setting was picture perfect. The rustic table, embellished with nosegays of white roses tucked into vintage urns, laced with delicate greens, and crowned with intertwining wreaths of greens and tulips from above. The vibe was definitely roses and rosé with chilled bottles of Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé adding a blush of color to the table. This was a labor of love and creativity as Dorie created the one of a kind tablescape and arrangements through her popular design business, Broadway Botanicals.
Roses and Rosé: A Bridal Brunch
It was a warm and sunny July day in Newport Beach and the perfect time to celebrate an upcoming family wedding with a bridal brunch. My sister, Dorie Swanson, hosted the brunch for her future daughter-in-law, lovely Caitlin, at Zinqué in Lido Marina Village. It was such a treat to catch up with this branch of my family and get acquainted with Caitlin's mom and sister for the first time.
The setting was picture perfect. The rustic table, embellished with nosegays of white roses tucked into vintage urns, laced with delicate greens, and crowned with intertwining wreaths of greens and tulips from above. The vibe was definitely roses and rosé with chilled bottles of Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé adding a blush of color to the table. This was a labor of love and creativity as Dorie created the one of a kind tablescape and arrangements through her popular design business, Broadway Botanicals.
(Click gallery for slide show)
Zinqué was a delicious choice for this special brunch and I highly recommend it for a hip, French-inspired bite or sip by the water.
The Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé that Dorie selected for the brunch comes in a beautifully embellished bottle, carved like a rose, and perfectly suited as a favor for guests to take as a reminder of our beautiful lunch celebrating the bride-to-be.
As you can imagine, we are looking forward to a beautiful wedding in the very near future!
Simple Steps to Take If You Want to Restyle Your Room
Every so often, it can just feel like it’s time for a change, especially if the interior of your living space has looked the same for a long time. It’s easy to have a vague picture of a newly designed room in your head that will make your decorating itch go away, but it’s an entirely different challenge to make that dream part of your home. There are many different challenges that people face when deciding how to restyle a room, but there’s no need to worry about any of them. Each can be met with ease if you approach them with thoughtful decisions. The key is to take your time. If you want your room to be perfect, you can’t rush it!
Simple Steps to Take If You Want To Restyle Your Room
Guest Blogger: Kacey Mya Bradley, Lifestyle & Travel Blogger
Every so often, it can just feel like it’s time for a change, especially if the interior of your living space has looked the same for a long time. It’s easy to have a vague picture of a newly designed room in your head that will make your decorating itch go away, but it’s an entirely different challenge to make that dream part of your home. There are many different challenges that people face when deciding how to restyle a room, but there’s no need to worry about any of them. Each can be met with ease if you approach them with thoughtful decisions. The key is to take your time. If you want your room to be perfect, you can’t rush it!
1. Rearrange Your Furniture This is the easiest and cheapest way to solve your problem. Don’t spend a bunch of money on getting new interior decorations and paint cans before rearranging your furniture. This can help reframe your mindset on your living space and might make you feel like you can relax without heading to the store. Try restructuring the layout of your room by placing your furniture around a focal point. This can be a TV, a fireplace, a dresser, anything you think will stand out or be the center of attention. Even if you think it may look terrible, get out some sliders and move your furniture to places you wouldn’t normally put them. You may find that this simple act gives your room a facelift and more time to save money for the next big re-decorating session.
2. Find Your Style Interior design isn’t just something that happens without a theme. You might want to place very little in your room to keep it open and warm, but even that falls under the decorating style of minimalistic. If you try rearranging and get assured that you need to start a room from scratch, first you need to find out what style fits your personality the most. You’ll also have to consider if the room theme you choose will work best for what purpose the room serves. For example, you might like the look of decorative antiques that add texture and history, but if an office space is cluttered with thrift store treasures, it may not conduct a good environment for you to produce your best work. Know yourself and know your theme, then go with what works best for the room.
3. Invest Your Money The idea behind a good restyling is that you’ll be thrilled with the results and won’t want to spend the same amount of money or more in the near future. Furniture is a huge factor in this. A couch or bed frame might look great with what you want your room to become, but will the material last long? Ideally, you should know what makes furniture a good investment because you go spending your money. That couch should last you five to ten years, and that bed frame even longer.
4. Get the Right Paint Choosing a new paint color for your room can be the most exciting and terrifying part about decorating. It gives the look of your room new life, but there are about a million shades of your favorite color to choose from. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to help pick out the right color for your room, and none of them involve trial and error.
5. When in Doubt, DIY Sometimes even with the best decorating, rooms can feel like they’re missing something. If you find yourself in this situation, fix your uneasiness with a Do It Yourself project! These can be as little as homemade picture frames or as big as house renovations, and there are some basic rules to follow to stay safe and create something perfect. Don’t have a history in crafts? You can still do a DIY project, just choose one that you’re confident in!
Whether you’re restyling one room or multiple, starting out can make you feel like you’re constantly hitting roadblocks if you don’t know where to go. No matter what the purpose of your room is, following steps like these will help you figure out exactly what you want and how to get it without draining your wallet. All it takes is an idea of what you’d like and you’re ready to go.
Thank you for sharing this stylish post today, Kacey!
SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe
We are in full-blown summer mode here by mid-July, at least here in Northern California. Are you feeling it too? Soaring temps, late evening sunsets, bountiful fresh fruits and veggies, backyard BBQs, lazy days - perhaps even the luxury of a poolside nap - all speak to the vibe of summer. During our road trip last week we experienced a mini-heatwave even on the coast in Newport Beach. It's official: the summer vibe is here!
SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe
We are in full-blown summer mode here by mid-July, at least here in Northern California. Are you feeling it too? Soaring temps, late evening sunsets, bountiful fresh fruits and veggies, backyard BBQs, lazy days - perhaps even the luxury of a poolside nap - all speak to the vibe of summer. During our road trip last week we experienced a mini-heatwave even on the coast in Newport Beach. It's official: the summer vibe is here!
I find myself reaching for flowy dresses, maxi skirts, palazzo pants, and loosely woven pieces to help keep me cool. I wore a black off the shoulder number to an outdoor party in the sun and realized light or white is my definitely my best friend for summer temps. I'm such a fan of caftans, wrap skirts and off the shoulder blouses. Stripes are feeling fresh and fun this season. I found this gallery of summer style inspiration on my Pinterest boards for summer 2017.
Travels are in high gear and I'm enjoying so many of the colorful travel photos on Facebook and Instagram. One of the bonuses of social media is being able to keep in touch with the goings on of family and friends. I LOVE it!
I'm also thankful for the most lovely birthday wishes I received over the weekend. Thank you, dear readers, for sharing the birthday love with me.
A Sunny Afternoon at the Parisian Flea Market - Porte Vanves
Paris is adorned with a number of colorful flea markets or brocantes as they are often called. On our first trip to Paris, in 2003, Scott and I spent an afternoon at the famed Clignancourt flea market, also known as the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, and thought to be the largest flea market in the world. We shipped home a small container filled to the brim with chandeliers, sconces, trays, perfume bottles, prints and charms from Paris long ago.
Paris is adorned with a number of colorful flea markets or brocantes as they are often called. On our first trip to Paris, in 2003, Scott and I spent an afternoon at the famed Clignancourt flea market, also known as the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, and thought to be the largest flea market in the world. We shipped home a small container filled to the brim with chandeliers, sconces, trays, perfume bottles, prints and charms from Paris long ago. On this trip, we stopped in at the smaller scale weekend market of Porte Vanves, near the apartment where we stayed. Aside from an eclectic mix of silk scarves, china, cutlery, jewelry, watches, books, and just about anything your heart desires, the people watching was fantastique. The saxophone solo was an ambient bonus to our sunny afternoon at the brocante in Paris.
My finds from the Parisian Brocante
These are a few of the treasures I gathered at Porte Vanves. A colorful silk scarf, a jewel-encrusted mirror, a couple of cocktail rings, a gilded framed mirror and a small statue. The gilded mirror and a small statue (not pictured) remind me of the charming Parisian apartment where we stayed during this trip to Paris. The petite Porte Vanves also makes finding small gifts to carry home an easy option.
For more on Vanves read Treasures and Trinkets at the Vanves Flea Market on Paris Perfect.
Are you a fan of shopping at flea markets?
Which one is your favorite?
