Happy Saturday, friends … it’s May!
And, it’s time for the weekend post with Kim and Elizabeth, our weekly roundup of inspirations and goings on. Today I’m sharing a few snaps from a lovely home and garden tour, beautiful linen-blend shirts on sale, a viral, collectible juice glass in cute dog motifs, and a new book to inspire seasonal entertaining – hello summer.
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Things are moving full steam ahead over at the Folly. We had more discussions round our landscaping plans, with Snowberry’s being an inspiration. Pippa and Maggie look forward to resuming their backyard lounging activities.
Let’s get to it …
Lafayette Lifestyle Tour
Last weekend was Lafayette Juniors Lifestyle Tour, an annual fundraiser with this year’s beneficiaries including Child Abuse Prevention Council of Country Costa County and Sweet Beginnings Diaper Bank. As always, it was lots of fun. Five recently renovated and newly built homes showcasing indoor and outdoor living and entertaining spaces. I didn’t take as many photos this year, with so many people milling around it’s tough and I threw in the towel. A few highlights …
This was my favorite kitchen. It has a beautiful walk-in pantry … what a dream.
This backyard felt like an oasis in the middle of a forrest.
White Barn Home created a table setting in one of the homes. This screenshot from a video isn’t as crisp as I’d like but you get the idea. It was a lovely setting; Niece Shelby said it was very natural and earthy. I like the use of potted basil as a centerpiece.
A couple of pretty bathrooms …
I love this kitchen island and took note of the wood finish as Folly inspo. The cabinet color is Black Horizon.
The sweetest moment on tour was this book nook. Swoon.
Talk about backyard bliss … this one had it all from lovely seating area and outdoor kitchen, to a stunning pool and spa, raised bed gardens and a bocci court.
One of the homes on tour is on the street I grew up on. A friend of mine lived there so I’d been in the house many times but when I walked in I didn’t recognize anything. Turns out the original house was torn down and rebuilt. Very nicely I should add.
And the backyard felt much larger than I remembered. They have a lovely covered patio, big outdoor kitchen and fireplace area. And a new feature … an ADU functioning as a home office.
It was fun to run into friends along the tour, including reader Monica and her husband Phil visiting Lafayette for the first time. They’re from San Francisco and aren’t very familiar with the East Bay. They both retired recenlty and are determined to get out of the city more to explore the Bay Area. I love that … and I’m inspired to do the same.
Ok, the last house had a gorgeous backyard. Had it been a warm, sunny day I would have been tempted to dip my toes in the water.
What I Wore
I decked myself out Frank & Eileen. Not intentionally, it just worked out that way.
Jacket | Henley Tee | Pants | Espadrilles | Tote | Scarf | Necklace | Earrings
Banana Republic Factory Linen Blend Shirts + More
My car went in for service this week and happened to be ready right at lunchtime … so I talked Jim into a quick bite before dropping me off. Aren’t I clever? It gets even better. We landed at Puesto in the Veranda shopping center, which happens to be home to some great factor outlet stores: J.Crew, Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic. Jim loves Banana Republic, so after lunch he was easily steered in for a look … everything is 40% off. While he perused the men’s section I did a quick scan of the women’s side and there a lot of great stuff for the warmer days ahead.
This linen-blend popover shirt with high-low hem is right up my alley.
Same for this striped linen-blend button down. I came home with both. I mean at 40% off it would have been dumb to say no.
These bucket hats are super cute and remind me of my dad who wore them for tennis and yard work. They come in four colors, ecru, denim, desert rose and spring green and I need a new walking hat for extra sun protection. Their straw buckets are good too.
Speaking of straw, I’m declaring this tote a summer vacation essential. Jim said, “don’t you have one like that at home?” I don’t know what he’s talking about, but with the costs at the Folly skyrocketing I shut my mouth and moved on.
These fit and flare linen-blend dresses look beautiful, and versatile … day, night, vacation, wherever. Also, these Bermuda shorts, and these boatneck tanks all got my attention.
Over on the men’s side, Jim found these crew neck tees, also 40% off. He goes through white tees like I go through hot cocoa mix so he’s always up for a restock.
Hosting for All Seasons
My IG friend Tonya Parker of The Real Chic Life, recently shared floral designer, Kery Jackson’s new book Hosting for All Seasons: Creating Thoughtful Gatherings, Year-Round on her Instagram. Having never met a decor or entertaining book I didn’t love – and need – of course, I ordered immediately. It’s expected to land on my doorstep Monday and I can’t wait. Floral arranging is a skill that alludes me (truthfully, most creative skills allude me) but I’m determined to improve and a new book brings renewed hope.
The idea of entertaining – in any season – feels very far off right now as the Folly plods along. I’ve come to terms with the harsh reality that there will be no entertaining happening this summer. But it’s never too soon to start planning for fall, the holidays … and next year. Follow Kery on Instagram here.
Anthro Icon Glasses
Niece Sammi sent me a set of these adorable Anthropologie Icon Juice Glasses with Jack Russell motif. Maggie, of course, is thrilled. Pippa, on the other hand, is slightly offended.
Ok, so I’m not going to pretend I knew anything about this apparently viral Anthro icon glass series which has become a collectible. Thanks goodness I have nieces who keep me semi with-the-program. In the event you’re also the dark, here’s more ~
“These whimsical 17-ounce Icon Juice Glasses are made using hand-pressed glass beads and handblown glass, resulting in 28 unique designs (and counting) from tennis balls to bow-tie pasta. Because they’re handmade, you’ll notice that no two are alike in size. Anthropologie also releases limited-edition versions for the holidays that tend to sell out faster than you can click “Add to cart,” so you won’t want to sleep on them when they drop. There are also other styles in the Icon Glass collection, from a confetti version to a chic martini glass begging to sit on top of your bar cart to a cute double-walled version.”
The Dog Icon release includes three breeds; Jack Russell, dachshund (hey, Elizabeth!), and terrier.
And, there are so many other themes that are part of the collection from food & drink to sports to island. I may have a new obsession!
The Devil Wears Prada II
It feels like we’ve been waiting for The Devil Wears Prada sequel for 20 years. Because we have. Ha! Did anyone see it yesterday? I’m going tonight.
I rarely go to the movies anymore, but this is definitely worth the effort … theater-worthy. Don’t you love the new theaters … with reserved seats, reclining seats, and food and drink ferried to your seat? But even with those perks a movie has to be really good to get me to the theater.
This morning I received a marketing email from AYR breathlessly announcing that “the shirt Miranda wanted” (presumably in the new film?) is back in stock. Ok, I fell for it and clicked the link. I have to say the face-framing blue Italian Oxford shirt is pretty darned good and I can see Meryl/Miranda wearing it. Anyway, I’m curious to see how the shirt fits into the movie. If you know, tell.
Don’t you love Meryl Streep? She wore Anne Hathaway’s cerulean blue sweater from the first movie on a recent appearance on Stephen Colbert. And talked about recognizing her worth this week on The Today Show.
Odds & Socks ~
- Everything at Serena & Lily is 20% off … I believe the sale goes to May 5th.
- If only I had shelves I’d snap this up.
- And, if only I had a table 😅 this beauty would be on it.
Current Favorites ~
And that’s what I have for you today. Last week we talked about a great place to source stone in the Bay Area, our day trip to Grass Valley and a new tinted lip serum that I love, as well as an update on the Folly; catch up here.
Let’s see what’s inspiring Elizabeth and Kim.
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What a fun time you’ve been having. I need to get out more. I am however, enjoying sunshine on my newly power-washed deck and new seat cushions for the deck chairs. It must be hard to say no to all the fun things you are finding if only you had a shelf or table. Resist! When you finally move in later this year you will know what you really need and want for decor items.
Now let’s talk about Jim. The question “don’t you have one like that at home” should just be struck from all men’s brains. Honestly!
Karen! My life at the moment is not nearly as fun as it looks. Trust me. Is there anything better than a freshly power washed deck or patio? I think not. As for Jim, I don’t know what to say … the BR tote and the one I have at home are vastly different. I think these nuances are lost on him. Sigh. xo
The drink glasses are really cute. Thanks for sharing. I’m sorry to hear you rarely go to movie theaters. I realize there are so many films that are super heroes or horror films that I pretty much skip over but there are still good ones out there. I love a little Indy theater that curates foreign (International) films and smaller American films that will be blockbusters but are so worthwhile. Also, I love the screenings of classic films. I’m afraid movie theaters are on a downward spiral. Too many people streaming at home. Nothing like watching on a big screen though. Enough of my movie thoughts. p.s. I really liked your Frank and Eileen outfit.
Linda! I’m afraid you’re right about the movies. I used to go every week. I’m not sure when that changed. The proliferation of superhero movies and the like definitely contributed. Why are smart, romantic comedy’s so few and far between? I’ll keep my eyes and ears open for local showings classics and indie films that deserve good box office. That reminds me, our towns local movie theater, closed forever, is undergoing a major renovation and I’m very excited about the grand opening. As for F&E, thank you. The brands price point is a little higher, but pieces I wear over and over again. Comfy too! Happy weekend. xo
Juliet! Really enjoy a good home tour!!
Beautiful pictures and you’re the perfect Frank & Eileen model…V CHIC!
Super excited to see Devil Wears Prada…
Thanks for putting amazing art out in the world each week my talented friend!
XX K
(Have you watched the NYT interview w/ T Swift? OBSESSED)
Kymmie! Thanks for the reminder, I’ve seen bits and pieces of the interview but not the entire thing. Today! Also, enjoy TDWPII … can’t wait to hear what you think. xoxo
Hi Juliet — I remember living in the 450sf guest cottage with two dogs and two cats, waiting anxiously for the house to be done. I was complaining to my builder one day about my under-counter refrigerator and he kindly told me to get my fridge and we plunked it in the middle of the unfinished living room, ha. The end is in sight for you and, as with me, it will be worth the wait. I discovered BR Factory a couple years. Their clothes are classics, and they have the best sales. Love the fit and flare dress in particular. I am also excited to see The Devil Wears Prada 2. Such a great cast. Have a lovely week!
Molly! I love that … big refrigerator in the middle of little living room. Game changer! I know is near, I hope I can maintain by pleasing personality until the end. Ha! xo
Juliet, I Leo seeing these houses through your eyes. I was so excited last week when you said you would be featuring this. I love the kitchen and the back yards! I need a bocci ball court or maybe the pool.
Love your Frank & Eileen outfit, beautiful as always.
I thank you, but my credit card does not for the heads about about the linen at BR. I ordered a few shirts.
I guess I must be out of the loop I did not know about these adorable glasses! I will need those too!
I hope that you have a wonderful weekend, enjoy your flower arranging book. You have lots of talents my friend and you showcase them every week.
xo
Elizabeth! You need those glasses stat! Ha! xoxo
Love a good home tour! That built-in cozy reading nook! LOVE! pinned!
Thanks, Annie … isn’t it the best?! xo
Fun running into you and Jim on the tour! I didn’t take many photos, but one of the few I did take was of that book nook. I’d never get anything done if I had that! The other photo was of the swim-up pool bar at the Pine Lane house—like a resort in your own backyard. Looking forward to seeing Devil on Thursday.
Monica! I’d get nothing done either … what a fantastic use of space! xo
Always love your content…thank you! Quick question: have you ordered your Starbucks cocoa mix lately? Last time I ordered, the price had significantly jumped up. Today, not available. I have regularly ordered on your suggestion for my daily mochachino…my days won’t be the same.
Sue! Funny you should mention that, I was online trying to buy it this morning and it’s vanished. What?! I found one source but the cost has sky rocketed. Also, it won’t be delivered for two weeks and I’m completely out. Oof. Man the panic stations … we need our cocoa!!! xo
Juliet, Fun to see this home tour! You always get to them and know the best ones. I love the picks from the BR Factory store over by your place. We have stopped there on the way back from Tahoe and it’s such a good store! I need that popover shirt and off to order it.
I have the AYR in that blue and it is hands down my favorite shirt of all time. I need the white one like you have. I didn’t know about Kery! Will follow her and want her book.
Those glasses are adorable. You need them! Elizabeth needs the doxie ones too.
Always so many good things you find. Hope you have a good week. xo