tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25109291806353524572024-03-13T01:40:46.816-07:00A WELL STYLED LIFE...style is more than what you wear, it's how you live your lifeJenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-37998835138906391812014-09-24T20:03:00.001-07:002014-09-24T20:03:47.720-07:00Style Essentials for Women Over 50<div>
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At 25, it's easy to shop for clothes and almost everything looks great on you. Youth forgives many faux pas, which are frequently seen as creative and chic. As you age, it's not as easy. <br>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">A quality handbag in proportion to your body. </span></b> I'm not saying <b>designer/logo</b> and I'm not saying <b>expensive</b>...I'm saying quality. What is a quality handbag? It has even stitching and there are no hanging threads. The seams lay flat with no puckers. The zipper works well and the hardware matches. Never carry a <b>knock off</b>..it screams insecurity!</li>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A good haircut is a true necessity!</b> </span>Your hair texture and face shape change as you age so your hair style needs to also. A flattering hair style needs to have movement. <b>Helmet hair</b> is fatal to looking stylish. Whether you choose to cover your gray or not is a personal choice and there is no wrong answer. Just be aware that if your hair and skin are the same tone, you may look washed out and need to intensify your make up. </li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghl4JaFl92w9lvNhBZ6JXk2c_enmb1R5hQEOJdUcrq-iaPxAZlN0TumxmXgaBOS8SR9Vg8UyXdSiLWoeUWxA5sSMZ0QXu9QppYGXI25cA19wZi9OTE8M9UQe2N4Bb2JW-e7-Ht7827qmEl/s1600/LBD.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="over fifty style" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghl4JaFl92w9lvNhBZ6JXk2c_enmb1R5hQEOJdUcrq-iaPxAZlN0TumxmXgaBOS8SR9Vg8UyXdSiLWoeUWxA5sSMZ0QXu9QppYGXI25cA19wZi9OTE8M9UQe2N4Bb2JW-e7-Ht7827qmEl/s1600/LBD.jpg" height="640" title="Little Black Dress" width="425"></a></div>
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Me feet are most comfortable in flats... for all occasions. Pay no attention to the wind trashed hair!</div>
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</div></div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/09/style-essentials-for-women-over-50.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-66435301245728007062014-09-16T08:53:00.001-07:002014-09-16T08:53:30.092-07:00The Joys of Sharing and Unplugging <br>
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Last week my husband and I took a short trip to Lake Tahoe for some down-time and much needed relaxation. Since we drove, I packed all the food we would need, into a cooler. I didn't want to leave the cabin other than to walk in the fresh air or sit under the trees on the back deck. I thought that would be enough to relax me.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tGm8q4OEZFVSUiqY4ZP8YYPqDr-L9xkXyXibBBOI4ZZxrtZqWCplLejuMiZhiw8MA8r4zWf9ZWxYe4ASZFvQKixh3XHvv5uCN2aoOyD6wlY20rOs3dOBcpcWM6vgo_m0OAofJIxN6qTi/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="relaxing holiday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tGm8q4OEZFVSUiqY4ZP8YYPqDr-L9xkXyXibBBOI4ZZxrtZqWCplLejuMiZhiw8MA8r4zWf9ZWxYe4ASZFvQKixh3XHvv5uCN2aoOyD6wlY20rOs3dOBcpcWM6vgo_m0OAofJIxN6qTi/s1600/photo+1.PNG" title="cabin at Lake Tahoe"></a></div>
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Of course my phone and iPad came along for the ride. I brought several books including Arianna Huffington's latest book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thrive-Redefining-Success-Creating-Well-Being/dp/0804140847" target="_blank">Thrive</a>.<br>
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The book encourages us to focus on our mental and emotional well-being, health, and practice slow-living. Self care as a measure of success, rather than how much prestige and money we have. She focuses on the importance of meditation, sleep, mindfulness, and our society's need to unplug from too much social media. Hmm....<br>
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I enjoy social media but I'm somewhat of an Instagram lover <strike>addict.</strike> I started snapping pics with my phone the minute we got to the cabin so I could <b>share</b> on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. I finally set my iPad to play classical music, settled down to read and came to this:</div>
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<b>"And by so-obsessively documenting our experiences, we never truly have them."</b><br>
<b> ~Sherry Turkle, MIT professor and author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alone-Together-Expect-Technology-Other/dp/0465031463" target="_blank">Alone Together</a> </b><br>
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Pause...what was I doing?<br>
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I decided to unplug, cold turkey for 24 hours! I actually used my Ipad to snap a visual of me powering off my phone...which I proceeded to share! That borders on crazy in my book!<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4BK1_9Ae33EYAqJLoqNfVqf27PZMlroz-E91ARe2kMRU3Bi_UFxYhlpPAbodOIhOHJuU-T-jM5oeamGZJyVCIabtnw3EMxkL0sV4G7l3BrgUqONaDiDRwn13hzvpsa-PFFyhe9UApJfC/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="unplugging from cell phone" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4BK1_9Ae33EYAqJLoqNfVqf27PZMlroz-E91ARe2kMRU3Bi_UFxYhlpPAbodOIhOHJuU-T-jM5oeamGZJyVCIabtnw3EMxkL0sV4G7l3BrgUqONaDiDRwn13hzvpsa-PFFyhe9UApJfC/s1600/photo+2.PNG" height="391" title="powering down" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-joys-of-sharing-and-unplugging.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-83956155256286349172014-09-14T20:13:00.000-07:002014-09-14T20:13:31.152-07:0010 Reasons I Love Being Over 50 <br>
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<li>I can <i><b>easily</b></i> let go of friendships that drain me. I no longer feel the need to tolerate poor behavior or dishonesty, just to keep a<b> </b><i><b>friend. </b> </i>I expect more from my female friendships than I did at 35. I should have had these standards back then, but I didn't...so there you go, part of being over 50!</li>
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<li>I never worry what people think I look like in my bathing suit. I simply don't care :) If I feel confident enough to put it on and step out, then I'm happy. Other people's opinion of my body or appearance is fading faster than my firm chin line. I'm comfortable in my own skin...even though it seems to be stretching in <b><i>interesting </i></b>spots. I've come to terms with my body, my age, my looks.</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My crows feet are a sign of the joy I find in life!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/09/10-reasons-i-love-being-over-50.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-78555001590278645472014-09-10T20:52:00.000-07:002014-09-10T20:54:34.106-07:00Be Your Own Muse<div style="text-align: center;">
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As summer winds down I've begun to clear my wardrobe of the flotsam and jetsam that always seems to collect at the end of a season.<br>
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You know...the white T-shirts that yellowed over the summer, the sandals that were seldom worn because they caused blisters at every wearing, the <strike>cheap</strike> inexpensive skirt that pilled beyond recognition after the first washing, (which made it too expensive, no matter the price)<br>
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I'm still anticipating several weeks of hot, <b>summer-like</b> weather here in California but because I grew up on the east coast, my internal clock tells me Autumn is right around the corner. </div>
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<b>After all, it's fashion week in New York!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwxk92g_04RXoMQkq925jw9Wy5fmr_8WQNvdQqx4XWNkYdv2plDQa3FaUOoiZRT7AKBC-5VwORfs2KYcnbbO_wArgyTBKcfii_yAHOzqqhfyQuK68dfIPTIZUkxtblVPCpr8Mvli4Jenv/s1600/NYFW14-finale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwxk92g_04RXoMQkq925jw9Wy5fmr_8WQNvdQqx4XWNkYdv2plDQa3FaUOoiZRT7AKBC-5VwORfs2KYcnbbO_wArgyTBKcfii_yAHOzqqhfyQuK68dfIPTIZUkxtblVPCpr8Mvli4Jenv/s1600/NYFW14-finale.jpg" height="504" width="640"></a></div>
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As I look over what I stored at the end of last winter, I'm gauging what stays and what goes.<br>
My personal style has been in the process of evolving for several months and I anticipate a change in how I want to look this fall. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Who will you be <i>next</i> season?"</span></div>
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</div></div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/09/be-your-own-muse.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-91039856125182186402014-09-07T13:03:00.001-07:002014-09-07T13:03:40.771-07:00What It Takes To Be A Grandparent<br>
A grandchild is usually involved in this equation. For me... it was James...who arrived late last year.<br>
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For some people, grand-parenting is being a wise confidant, trusted guide, and frequently sympathetic ear for a younger person. You needn't be related by blood to be a grandparent.<br>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/09/what-it-takes-to-be-grandparent.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-89544381995826209412014-08-22T21:04:00.001-07:002014-08-22T21:07:07.745-07:00The Importance of Your Voice<br>
My take-away from last month's BlogHer convention was about my "voice". Both my<i><b> audible</b></i> voice and my <b><i>written</i></b> voice. The authenticity of my voice. The value or perceived value of my voice.<br>
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I met so many bloggers with a honed...specific...laser focused voice, I came away wondering..."what is my voice?" Why am I blogging and do I even want to continue?<br>
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What exactly is a "Lifestyle" blog? Has mine become a journal of sorts with the occasional <i style="font-weight: bold;">rant </i> thrown in? It's certainly not evolved into what I intended it to be. For that matter, I'm not sure I had a clear direction in mind when I started this one.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMD77OChIb3arotqBTfTemx9KICrQTU6fIJWyPh1_NWNhmbnL0ycYyZOYB9TtoQK8ZIToFVHgMTs181BQEBVu5hT2r8LO8TETCvFv4xUah4EYGsobah9myVQQP16qW4dHMPt6w_hmco2r/s1600/San+Jose+skyline.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fairmont San Jose" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMD77OChIb3arotqBTfTemx9KICrQTU6fIJWyPh1_NWNhmbnL0ycYyZOYB9TtoQK8ZIToFVHgMTs181BQEBVu5hT2r8LO8TETCvFv4xUah4EYGsobah9myVQQP16qW4dHMPt6w_hmco2r/s1600/San+Jose+skyline.JPG" height="640" title="San Jose Skyline" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from my gorgeous room at the <a href="http://www.fairmont.com/san-jose/?cmpid=google_saj_search-brand-california_branded-e-suppl&s_kwcid=TC|1029531|fairmont%20san%20jose||S|e|40257177" target="_blank">Fairmont San Jose</a>.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-importance-of-your-voice.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-82044722095369220512014-07-17T10:30:00.002-07:002014-07-17T10:30:56.289-07:00Reality Bites...or Tips For A Patient Advocate<div align="center" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
<br>My life is not all sunshine, wine tasting and roses... Oh, did I surprise you? </div>
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<img alt="Tips on being a medical advocate" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WZlx-6uCY73AxZd-eKAaVg1FJHcQ2QShrnyFiZEovWi1Ukcnibi4qq-mAb54ecF2BaOHBYnazLvukKMAfOwAk-OssORiAtCmrL6A3SXNA97oI52whYZVB4ytK8PK_8_U5xRrygiRFMAe/" title="Roses" width="480"></div>
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<br><br>"Most patient advocates are women who have been through some kind of complicated encounter with the medical delivery system, either for themselves or a family member or spouse. “They know what it’s like to feel lost in the system."<br>~Forbes</div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/07/reality-bitesor-tips-for-patient.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-84548387383212180672014-07-15T08:10:00.000-07:002014-07-15T08:11:18.700-07:00Reunions in Napa Valley<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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We've just returned from another fabulous weekend in the Napa Valley. The occasion was a 70th birthday party for a dear old friend.</div>
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I say "<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana;">old</span>" based on the length of our friendship, not his age...although I admit my perception of <b>middle</b> a<b></b>ge resides on a sliding scale now. </div>
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<img alt="traveling in Napa Valley" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCtSiCMLb8KKhmo_ruyqGXoiLc5-kQx18hSL27XcRJf9J7rxK_kCgD7nF0ETQuF5weFCsfk7AwVz4lz10Ql9NQ1bfsIveVnfC8I14xlldQita6CjkQfwcTKRaAWP4Rb6bR7a_jhPRlsJT/" title="Tra Vigne restaurant, St Helena, CA" width="590"><br>
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Our reunion began at Tra Vigne in St Helena. It's vine covered, rustic stone exterior set the mood for our fabulous meal. I adore everything about Italian food and coming here felt like a trip to Tuscany. Nestled in the heart of historic St. Helena, <a href="http://travignerestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Tra Vigne</a>, serves outstanding Northern Italian cucina crafted from fresh local ingredients. </div>
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<img alt="stone lions at Tra Vigne" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-EtxJFq7LyiHa0176ltYSJBr1zb3hqEbHOG37d4aFXbepEXkp_OJOolL6cN8oWaakL4F_5HM5k62s8yUwEfx_3lxnm4drTXj1dYfrjVcpHp4d8xXpITUWtRbOag4YaI6OYS_PldzQw4k/" title="courtyard at Tra Vigne in St Helena, CA" width="525"></div>
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The entrance is flanked by two beautiful carved stone lions. <br>
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<img alt="fine dining in St Helena, CA" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE126w6msIRCTBLRjsljg6eP4dzKpruzx5GuLGRBZ4fAbhr9E5vag3PLDZT8QbYpzhG8NCPuwLSlHBfcJhfpaJ3ljYq_jHmXh1hCZoDt1ZDqEGFDmCa74bYTsH614iU4o_1Ys_LGJVEOPo/" title="entrance to Tra Vigne in Napa Valley" width="480"></div>
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I haven't seen my friend Silvia in almost twenty years and she'd probably shoot me for this picture, but it's the only semi usable one of us in front of the Lions.<br>
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<img alt="great restaurant in Napa Valley" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqdafBJ16Fh1fxxEqr_397jnNQlB0AaCxTsOW-LQ_eSNA3rKHtg_h-xILXzw6IcJpp1-UW72u23pR4nUOsVPH2zg56We2KqzJ6MiY2Ly0eZPqiTjbcAW0l43BRPGpvuYJwPolp3HgWo3D/" title="stone lions at Tra Vigne entrance in Napa Valley" width="480"></div>
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Pardon my "stork" pose. I refused to wear my walking cast for this trip so I'm hiding my surgical-tape wrapped toes:).<br>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/07/reunions-in-napa-valley.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-58680666805006906552014-07-08T17:50:00.000-07:002014-07-10T00:07:16.550-07:00Patriotic Pavlova<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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After my latest sinus infection, my Doctor suggested I stop eating all wheat, dairy, sugar, beans and alcohol.<br>
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She called it the Allergy Diet...I called it...<b> ludicrously</b> <b>impossible!</b><br>
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We had the whole family for July 4th dinner last week and because of my new restrictions I needed to be extra creative with the menu. I hate making foods I can't eat!<br>
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Of course the star of the day was our cutie pie. There were copious amounts of <strike>smothering</strike> fawning, over our grandchild James. I <b><span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">was</span></b> <strike>probably</strike> the worst culprit!<br>
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As I started dinner preparations, he crawled into the kitchen to keep me company. He's just learned to pull himself up to stand and found my maxi skirt most helpful :)) Such a brilliant child!<br>
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I gave him some wooden spoons and Tupperware... but he seemed much more interested in what I was doing. Lucy wasn't leaving my side either. She <b>braved</b> the beard pulls and tail grabs to stay glued to my leg.</div>
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</div></div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/07/patriotic-pavlova.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-21347898679070442332014-07-06T19:43:00.000-07:002014-07-08T13:01:22.206-07:00Chivalry is Alive and Well<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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My daughter has been visiting for the last ten, happy, jam packed days. Sandwiched between the family events...we managed to steal away for several Mom and daughter adventures. Always my favorite!</div>
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We spent several days relaxing in the Napa Valley...wine tasting, laughing and generally eating our way out of our summer clothes:). </div>
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My sister-in-law joined us at <a href="http://bouchonbistro.com/yountville" target="_blank">Bouchon Bistro</a> in Yountville, to help christen our trip. Crag legs, mussels, olives and wine began our delicious lunch! The atmosphere was bustling and fun, which got us right in the party mood. </div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/07/chavalry-is-alive-and-well.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-38494422835536029762014-06-14T16:56:00.001-07:002014-06-15T14:07:32.328-07:00Reality check and Fathers Day <div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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I haven't dropped off the map...I've just stumbled a<i><b> little</b></i> bit. </div>
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We spent last weekend with some friends at Lake Tahoe... which was predictably stunning and allowed us to escape the 100+ temperatures, here at home. Always a nice thing to do.</div>
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Just prior to leaving for Tahoe, I had a rather unfortunate encounter with my ottoman. I wish I could say the ottoman jumped out and attacked me. But it's been in pretty much the same location for 6 years... so this was entirely self inflicted and falls squarely into the klutz category. </div>
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I assumed I'd just broken a toe...which I've done before...so I ignored it. Not smart. After limping around all weekend...goggling my pain level... I finally I decided it was more painful than it should be. </div>
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I hobbled over to my Dr. where X-rays showed I'd actually broken a bigger bone, deep inside my foot.<br>
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<b>Validation and ugly footwear collided in his office.</b></div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/06/reality-check-and-fathers-day.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-43242252827103031772014-06-02T09:15:00.003-07:002014-06-02T16:14:55.524-07:00Brimming with This & That<div align="center" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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I haven't worn this Helen Kaminski <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/awestli-20/detail/B00KAZQJL4" target="_blank">(similar)</a> hat for several years, but it was perfect for sailing on the San Francisco Bay two weeks ago. It has adjustable ties which allowed me to tighten the band as we rounded Angel Island and hit the infamous <a href="http://www.modernluxury.com/san-francisco/story/sailors-guide-the-san-francisco-bay" target="_blank">slot</a> , with strong currents and winds usually averaging 20-25 knots. <br>
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Needless to say...this picture was taken as we <b>headed</b> <b>out</b>. By the time we got back to the dock my hair looked like 3 cats had been wrestling in it. </div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/06/brimming-with-this-that.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-12638380660743145252014-05-29T11:17:00.001-07:002014-05-29T11:17:18.811-07:00Motivation<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
<br>I am frequently pleased by some very simple things. I choose to think that's a good thing. <br><br>Having a shiny new IPad cover was at the top of my list this morning. It looked so pretty charging on my bedside table, surrounded by some white Peonies and a favorite candle...I was inspired to snap a photo. <br><br>Goofy...yes...but making my world a prettier place brings me joy. </div>
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<br>As I was checking my email with this new delight, I opened a comment for a blog I posted in January...which puzzled me. Why would anyone comment so late?</div>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/motivation.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-15821892713913891712014-05-21T20:22:00.001-07:002014-05-21T22:32:04.992-07:00Filling Your Heart With Joy<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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I spent last week with my only/first grandson, James.</div>
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I love my entire family, <strike>although there is that crazy Uncle</strike> .... How I feel about this little fellow is something entirely different. My heart is simply <b>overflowing</b> with love for James. I can't think of another way to express the feeling.</div>
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Did I love my own children this much? <b>Of course I did</b>, but it was love laced with concern. I stressed over the worries all parents have. Am I doing things right? Are they doing <i><b>what</b></i> they should, <i><b>when</b></i> they should?</div>
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While my daughter-in-law was expecting, my friend Cindy, (already a grandmother) predicted I would be forever changed by his birth. I admitted I would <b>love</b> him. Of <b>course</b> I would love him...but he's just a baby after all! I thought she was a nutty and probably exaggerating.</div>
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I was totally unprepared for the <b>intensity</b> of my love for him. It didn't explode in my heart the day he was born, as it does for parents.</div>
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It grew...and keeps growing. Things <i><b>may</b></i> change a bit as he enters those <b>inhuman stages</b> all children seem to go through, but I doubt it. <br>
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<b>Oh! ...were <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">my </span>children the only ones to do that?! Lucky me :) </b> </div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/filling-your-heart-with-joy.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-89458665424209786212014-05-15T23:21:00.000-07:002014-05-16T00:49:54.471-07:00Traveling In My Own Backyard<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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I love living in Northern California. </div>
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San Francisco is a short 30 minute drive, I can get to downtown Carmel in 90 minutes and Napa Valley is less than an hour drive away...going the speed limit. <strike>Which I seldom do.</strike><br>
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I am joining my fellow bloggers and Instagram lovers at <a href="http://www.skimbacolifestyle.com/category/skimbaco-travel" target="_blank">Skimbaco's Instagram Travel Thursday</a> , sharing some of my favorite posts from <a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/04/coming-attractions.html" target="_blank">The Napa Valley</a> adventure I had last month.<br>
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As I drove the small country roads, winding through rolling hills covered with luscious green vineyards...I could almost <b>feel</b> my blood pressure go down.<br>
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Blooming roses and wild California Poppies seemed to be around every turn. The deeper I got into the Napa Valley the more transported I felt.<br>
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Before I joined Instagram last year, I had very few photo's that captured my travel adventures and holidays.<br>
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I was the woman who carted her camera on vacation and <b>consistently</b> left it in the hotel room. It was too bulky, heavy and awkward to bother with. Now that I use my iPhone, I've become <strike>totally</strike> slightly obsessed with snapping and sharing on Instagram.<br>
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</div></div></div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/traveling-in-my-own-backyard.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-13503582260981057692014-05-12T12:43:00.000-07:002014-05-12T12:43:29.141-07:00I Really Do Like You<br>
Monday morning house cleaning... sort of.<br>
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This week I'm going to <i><b>attempt</b></i> to clear some confusion and clutter out of my email and electronic life.<br>
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I follow blogs in varying ways... none of which has proven very satisfactory. I've utilized friend connect, Bloglovin (detest that name), RSS feed...as well as by email.<br>
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<b>By email is my preferred method</b> because although I receive posts later than I like...at least I get them!<br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.399999618530273px; text-align: start;">Since no post is complete with a photo, here is a picture of the <b>gougères</b> my friend Terry brought as an appetizer to dinner Friday night. These French Cheese puffs tasted better than the entire meal I made!</span></div>
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Back to my point.</div>
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I'm loosing track of some blogs I<b> love</b> to read and getting <b>multiple</b> copies of others.... which I also love to read but don't need to get from three sources.<br>
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<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/i-really-do-like-you.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-88771354826326349112014-05-07T17:47:00.002-07:002014-05-07T17:47:50.488-07:00Randomness and Ballgowns <div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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We had a bit of a hot streak last week, so rather than taking the time to reorganize my entire wardrobe, I just switched my shoes boxes around. Why would I want to dive into the whole closet clean out when the sun was shining?<br />And in truth, living in California, most of my clothes are multi seasonal. </div>
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I unearthed these cute little, unworn, espadrilles I'd bought during my trip to Bordeaux...two summers ago. These cuties were lost in my closet because I don't have the box for them. There was no room in my carry on luggage for the box, so I left it at the shop. <br /><br />I am not a fan of pattern, but do have a fondness for stripes and polka dots so when these shoes screamed "buy me", I did as I was told. <br /><br />All my shoes are stored in their original boxes, with Polaroids of them on the side...so I can spot what's inside, at a glance. Yes, yes...I really need to get other hobbies.</div>
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<br />So since these shoes had no box, they had no proper place to live in my closet. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. </div>
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Yesterday I met Elizabeth, who everyone knows as <a href="http://vintagehenhouse.com/2014/05/06/top-five-things-that-drive-you-crazy/" target="_blank">Contessa</a> for lunch and a nice chat. As I drove up to park, there she was looking cheery and sunny in her bright yellow linen, yellow hat and bright blue shoes. </div>
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In contrast, I was in my standard vampire garb. I love my new Panama Straw hat from the <a href="http://www.panamahatsco.com/Store/" target="_blank">Montecristi Panama Hat Store</a>. I know it'll be one of my go-to hats this summer because it offers such great coverage, and you guessed it...it's black. </div>
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After a lovely lunch at the Blackhawk Grill we wandered down the shopping center to have a cappuccino. It was a warm, sunny, gorgeous day, so we sat outside. You <b>may</b> notice I'm not hiding under an umbrella, but I did manage to snag the seat in the shade! This is a lousy picture because our hats were shading us, but here we are in stark color contrast!</div>
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She came bearing a gift for me!! I love getting gifts and must admit, jewelry is one of my favorite kind of gifts. It's right up there above perfume and flowers. Thank you for my lovely bracelets Elizabeth!!</div>
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I'm reading this interesting book... <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Matter-Fashion-Iconic-Changed-History/dp/8854406503" target="_blank">a Matter of FASHION</a>, 20 Iconic Items that Changed the History of Style. Since I'm in the mood for light reading, and this hits the spot perfecty. </div>
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We're heading out tonight to an event at <a href="http://blackhawkmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Blackhawk Museum</a> which I'm confident will bear no resemblance to the recent <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2014/05/06/fashion/met-gala-redcarpet-beauty.html?_r=0" target="_blank">glamorous </a> event at a The Metropolitan Museum of Art. </div>
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And on a totally random note, <a href="http://www.naomipicks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Naomi</a> found this hilarious photo from that night.</div>
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One comment said "because celebrities are human too"!</div>
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This just makes me laugh and cringe at the same time. Where are these ladies' <i style="font-weight: bold;">people? </i></div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-51668684239769176352014-05-05T22:14:00.000-07:002014-05-05T22:20:23.832-07:00If I Could Change The World<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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This is my second post for the BIO group and I <b><i>suspect </i></b>I may be going slightly rogue from the group on this one. My immediate reaction to this month's topic was instant and passionate.<br>
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<b>"The top five things that drive me crazy. How to improve the universe...from my point of view."</b><br>
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<b>1- What drives me crazy... is uninformed ignorance and apathy over the fight against Lung Cancer.</b><br>
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I would eliminate the blaming and misinformation regarding lung cancer. You don't need to have smoked to get lung cancer...and yet people diagnosed with this disease are blamed for "bringing it on themselves". I had dinner, several years ago, with a six year girl who'd just had one lung removed. She'd <i><b>finally</b></i> been properly diagnosed with lung cancer. No one in her family smoked! I say finally...because her doctors took <b>way</b> too long a time to correctly diagnose her cancer. The thought of a six year old having lung cancer...never entered their minds, so she was repeatedly misdiagnosed until the only reasonable explanation could be lung cancer. She is alive and thrives today....a miracle.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Some of my photos from last years <b>Gala to End Lung Cancer</b> held at the <a href="http://www.fairmont.com/san-francisco/?cmpid=google_saf_search-brand-califonria_brand-p-suppl&s_kwcid=TC|1029183|san%20francisco%20fairmont||S|" target="_blank">San Francisco Fairmont Hotel</a>.</td></tr>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/if-i-could-change-world.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-74092990115415581682014-05-04T11:54:00.000-07:002014-05-04T11:54:42.589-07:00A Day of Wine & Roses <div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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Having a good limousine driver while touring wineries, is both a luxury and a necessity. I've never toured Napa with a chauffeur before now. I'm usually the <i>slightly</i> cranky, designated driver...so this was a wonderful treat!<br>
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Last week we had the good fortune to have Mike Johnson from <a href="http://www.nvtt.net/" target="_blank">Napa Valley Tours & Transportation</a> as our chauffeur. Mike, also known as "Napa Chauffeur" is well known for arranging fabulous itineraries. He specializes in small production boutique and cult wineries which give people a peek into the wine country they couldn't get with <i><b>just</b></i> <i><b>any</b></i> Chauffeur. His photos on <a href="http://instagram.com/napachauffeur" target="_blank">Instagram </a>are beyond spectacular and he was kind enough to send me a few to use for this post.<br>
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Our tour of <a href="http://www.pineridgewinery.com/" target="_blank">Pine Ridge Vineyards</a> was extraordinarily beautiful. Our guide was Mark, their director of sales.</div>
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He poured us each a sampling of a lovely <b style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">rosé...</b> then led us outside to begin our tour.</div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/05/a-day-of-wine-roses.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-75913226998399988792014-04-27T21:08:00.003-07:002014-04-27T21:13:24.326-07:00Precious Time<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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Ten friends. <br>
For the past 35 years we've been meeting every couple of months, rotating homes for group dinners and hilarity.<br>
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We stopped calling ourselves a <i><b>gourmet</b></i> dinner group... years ago.<br>
The truth was, we just wanted to be together...not require the hosting couple to work themselves into a frenzy when it was at their house. So we all began to bring a contribution to the meals. <br>
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We morphed into a gathering of loved ones. A family. <br>
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After dinner we would always settle down for a rather competitive game of trivial pursuit. Men against the women. Heated and hilarious, these games frequently lasted into the wee hours. <br>
Lately, we'd begun our dinners mid to late afternoon, so we could all stay awake for the games.</div>
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We met because one member of each couple had worked at the same company 35 years ago. Comten, a now defunct computer software company. <br>
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We called ourselves the Com-10. If an emergency came up...a couple could not attend and it was too late to reschedule, we joked at that dinner about being the Com-8. I remember one dinner where only 1/2 of one couple had to miss and her husband brought a cardboard cutout of his wife to sit on the chair across from him. </div>
<a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/04/precious-time.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-27505184749509692552014-04-25T12:44:00.001-07:002014-04-26T09:14:55.453-07:00Historic Merryvale Vineyards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my favorite stops on our tour of Napa Valley last week was <a href="http://www.merryvale.com/" target="_blank">Merryvale Winery</a>, in the heart of downtown St. Helena. Originally named Sunny St. Helena, it was the first winery built in Napa Valley (1933) after prohibition was repealed.</div>
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Walking past their grand fountain and vintage grape-crushing wheels, we were warmly greeted by Laurence Schlatter, whose family owns the winery. Just before we entered the building, the <a href="http://winetrain.com/" target="_blank">Napa Valley Wine Train</a> chugged past in<b> picture-postcard perfect beauty.</b><span style="text-align: -webkit-left;"> Hollywood couldn't have created a more perfect image. <i><b>Right then</b></i>, I decided I <strike>had to</strike> wanted to live in Napa Valley.</span></div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/04/historic-merryvale-vineyards.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-57301904941657785182014-04-21T15:04:00.000-07:002014-04-26T11:59:16.193-07:00Coming Attractions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I feel like I've been living out of my <span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>very small</b> </span>suitcase for <i><b>months</b></i>. I'd barely unpacked from 2 weeks in <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2510929180635352457#editor/target=post;postID=3018471539983339401;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=2;src=postname" target="_blank">Mexico</a> before I headed east to spend time with my <a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2013/10/scarf-tied-up-with-love.html" target="_blank">grandson</a>. Two weeks away...is a<i> very</i> long time for a little fellow...I was shocked by how much he'd sprouted. </div>
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Two days later I was <strike>stuffing</strike> loading my car for Napa Valley and the Bloggers In Napa Valley adventure.</div>
I hadn't met any of these women before and was anxious to put a face and voice to each one.<br />
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When I fly, I pack as little as possible, but when I drive...all bets are off. I brought at least 5 hats, uncountable numbers of scarves and enough clothes for a year. And even though this trip was to sunny, warm, Napa Valley... I wore my standard vampire garb. </div>
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I have <b>many</b> people to thank and thoughts to organize so I can share this experience...but honestly... I can't seem to get it together yet... so I sat down yesterday and made a little movie trailer about it. </div>
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This medium is not my forte, so it's a bit jumpy in <u>full screen</u> mode...but here it is. Watch the smaller version...with the volume on.</div>
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There is a <strike style="font-weight: bold;">huge</strike> schmaltzy factor to this little video...but I'm feeling pretty sentimental about this trip.</div>
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<a href="http://www.therichlifeonabudget.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne</a> of <b>The Rich Life On A Budget</b> worked tirelessly for over four months... to organize and put this entire trip together. No detail was left to chance and everything was seamlessly beautiful. I can't thank her enough for including me in this adventure.<br />
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I brought home memories of a lifetime!</div>
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More to follow, when I get my car unpacked.</div>
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Linking up with <a href="http://www.mispapelicos.com/2014/04/share-in-style-accessories.html#.U1v0HFVdW8B" target="_blank">Mis Papelicos</a> today.</div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-30184715399833394012014-04-12T08:35:00.000-07:002014-04-21T00:45:59.063-07:00Mexico in Two Bags<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
I'm in the process of unpacking from my two weeks in Mexico. The first week seemed to pass slowly...but the second week flew past...way too quickly. That's always the way with my vacations. </div>
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For the first several days, we stayed at the <a href="http://www.loretobayresort.com/en/" target="_blank">Loreto Bay Golf Resort </a> on the Sea of Cortez. </div>
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A good book, beautiful scenery, ocean breezes and a comfy chaise lounge in the cool shade of a palapa...is my idea of decompressing. I can't remember the last time my husband and I had a vacation where <b>nothing</b> is required...except relaxing. </div>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/04/mexico-in-two-bags.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2510929180635352457.post-30042092204314295022014-04-01T06:31:00.001-07:002014-04-01T06:32:06.330-07:00My Cruising Essentials<div class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What would you choose as your top ten items to bring on vacation? What if it's a cruise?<br />
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We've done several cruises on the Windstar Cruise Line, which are the perfect size ship for us. Less than 200 passengers. They can get closer into small ports...which is great... but don't have the resources and shopping opportunities that are aboard the huge ships.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyuOFusQ4vf5XVw8DK-oxxB-ibrX9N5DrI5hh2XluT2glxvojKrKTTsYpC-o5S3CB12vFPVfgNFBhMBGZwl1vVbcuguNeIDqqq7a88xgZgfi5yWjaYLeJx3krqSR8nG9ZBlsyCAM7T9PN/s1600/Windstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cruising Mediterranean" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyuOFusQ4vf5XVw8DK-oxxB-ibrX9N5DrI5hh2XluT2glxvojKrKTTsYpC-o5S3CB12vFPVfgNFBhMBGZwl1vVbcuguNeIDqqq7a88xgZgfi5yWjaYLeJx3krqSR8nG9ZBlsyCAM7T9PN/s1600/Windstar.jpg" height="400" title="Our Windstar Cruise" width="396" /></a></div>
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There are several essentials that I <i><b>never</b></i> go on vacation without. But for a cruise...that list becomes more critical because you're on the move...almost constantly...often in exotic places.</div>
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1- A <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Paperwhite-Touch-light/dp/B007OZNZG0" target="_blank">Kindle Paperwhite</a> loaded with several new books I've been anxious to read. At home my preference is paper & ink books. But for travel, the Kindle is <i style="font-weight: bold;">far</i> more convenient. I can also download other books anywhere I find wifi. It's not always easy to find a book you want to read, written in English, in a foreign speaking port.</div>
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<img alt="La Roche-Posey sunscreen" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkCX3681pO30YFwxoJyrFSjmL2c42G74-dF8wmiR1oeo1Ta7pITSCDDQ6rUqj7GX3f8TBG0Vk6KhSCqUUqW-T2SMKP1Pr34bAd5w1PDIOoEbPwRQ9gyu_izbJJkUGOKfnI8eQpilGQZal/" title="Shisedo sunscreen" width="564" /><br />
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2- Multiple bottles and brands of sunscreen. I had melanoma in my late 30's so I take my sunscreen <i style="font-weight: bold;">very, very seriously.</i> These are some of my current favorites. The <a href="http://www.lovelyskin.com/o/la-roche-posay-anthelios-50-mineral-ultra-light-sunscreen-fluid?ref=gbase&lsat=LSKIN20&gclid=CPriuNmJsr0CFRRsfgodPgUAMQ" target="_blank">La Roche-Posay</a> is a physical block, but virtually invisible on the skin. Most mineral sunscreens are <strike>nasty</strike> white pasty things. Not this one! The <a href="http://www.shiseido.com/urban-environment-oil-free-uv-protector-spf-42/0730852105126,en_US,pd.html&cgid=suncare&" target="_blank">Shisedo</a> one is a combination mineral/chemical sunscreen and also very clear upon application. I always keep this Neutrogena stick in my purse...for instant <b>back of hand</b> protection.<br />
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3- I always bring at least <b>one extra</b> pair of prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses. Obviously, they couldn't be replaced on a cruise and my trip would be <b style="text-decoration: line-through;">worthless</b> ruined if I'd only brought one pair and they broke or were lost. Another benefit is the ability...along with my hats and accessories...to make the same black dress look different.</div>
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4- I like to bring an over-the-door toiletries holder/organizer. A clear over-the-door shoe organizer works just as easily. Counter space is usually quite minimal on cruises unless you're traveling Silversea or equivalent.</div>
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5- For a cruise I like <a href="http://www.coolibar.com/product/Sun-Hats/Womens/Floppy/SmartStraw-Sedona-Sun-Hat/pc/2222/c/2271/sc/2196/156006.uts" target="_blank">this hat</a> from Coolibar because the brim is wide and the strap will keep it on my head in a strong wind. Mine is the far one you see in this photo in cream. I stack multiple hats inside each other and pack them upside down in my suitcase.</div>
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6- This is coming with me <u style="font-weight: bold;">every time</u> I travel from now on. I can't take credit for finding it. That goes to our always inspiring and brilliant friend <a href="http://slimpaley.com/2014/03/23/the-dusty-road-to-mandalay/" target="_blank">Slim Paley</a>. I was guilty of bringing a far inferior product until she mentioned this in her latest post. Thank you Slim! My alternative was pathetic.<br />
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7- A black Jersey Dress...the workhorse of my travel wardrobe! I'd bring at least one.</div>
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7- My cell phone. Ugly as it looks and sounds...all my contacts' information is stored on it. Plus it's smaller and lighter than my camera so I'm more likely to take it everywhere. My camera is a heavy production to haul around, so I frequently leave it behind.</div>
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8- Although I don't <b>do</b> water, I would bring a bathing suit. I don't sunbathe, I don't swim and I don't use public hot tubs...but for a cruise, I would always bring a couple of bathing suits.</div>
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9- A beautiful caftan to slip into at the end of the day. Loose fitting and elegant, it's perfect for having drinks on the deck or relaxing in our cabin. </div>
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10- Scarves, sarongs and wraps. I travel with tons of them. I'm currently lusting after <a href="http://usa.hermes.com/woman/stoles-and-shawls/shawls/cashmere-and-silk/red/configurable-product-242658s-38713.html?nuance=4" target="_blank">this one</a> from Hermes. I have a predominantly black and neutral wardrobe so I like to add my punch of color and pattern with scarves, </div>
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I've been invited to join <b>By Invitation Only</b> this month at <a href="http://www.splenderosa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Marsha's</a>, Splenderosa.<br />
Please go over and see the what the other ladies' <b>must pack</b> for a cruise or vacation.</div>
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Do you have essentials you always bring on a trip?</div>
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I was asked to demonstrate how I can travel for multiple weeks using carry on baggage only. </div>
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This is how I packed my bags for a two week trip to Mexico...which starts tomorrow. <br>
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This packing style works best for cruises or trips where you arrive...and stay in one place for a more than a day or two. Everything needs to be taken out upon arrival and hung up or put in drawers. </div>
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In my experience, rolling clothes does not prevent wrinkles. Nor does layering plastic dry cleaner bags between the clothes. In fact when I tried the plastic, everything slid into crumpled disasters. </div>
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My clothes get organized on my rolling rack. Shoes are packed in soft cloth bags and hats are chosen for outfits and climate. Lingerie, socks and accessories are all out and visible before anything goes into the bag. <br>
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</div><a href="http://awellstyledlife.blogspot.com/2014/03/packing-logistics.html#more">Continue reading...</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04723360304687997220noreply@blogger.com0