Penny Lane: A VW Van

Late one evening in Big Sur, Penny Lane, a VW van pulled into the campground.  I couldn't resist snapping a few shots of it.  The surrounding lights illuminated the van in way that made it seem magical.   My guess is that it probably is, regardless.  

Here's to a magical summer filled with adventure, peace and love!

Safe travels to all!

Reader Giveaway: A Rug Pad Find

Seriously, all rug pads are NOT created equal.  I realized this hard fact when a reputable local rug distributor cut pads for our kitchen area rugs.  When I got home and un-rolled them, I discovered they were really thin and held together with duct tape (???).  So you can image my delight when Rug Pad USA contacted me to review their product. As I looked through their user-friendly website, I was amazed to find pads for all types of floors:  tile, wood, even laminate.  There are pads with extra padding, strong non-slip versions, and customized sizes for all types of rugs.    The one that interested me most was Rug PAD USA'S Eco Cushion Non Slip Pad.  With its dense cushion, breathable design and bio-based construction I knew it would be a perfect fit for our kitchen runner.  It hasn't disappointed me yet.  The rug stays on the pad and it's easy on our [big and small] feet, for however long we dabble in the kitchen.  Take a look at it and find instructions below on how to win your very own rug pad from Rug Pad USA.  Good luck!

Enter to win a 3 X 5 Rug Pad USA Eco Cushion Non Slip Pad by checking out Rug Pad USA's Facebook Page here  and leaving a comment below:

Contest End's Friday, June 26th at 12am PCT. 

*This post was sponsored  by Rug Pad USA.   The Eco Cushion was chosen by me and donated by Rug Pad USA.  All opinions and images are my own. 

The Find: A Perfect Hat

Finding a hat that fits (I have a small head), looks good on me and truly protects my face from the sun is not always easy, but I found one very recently.  Its wide brim, chic style and UV protective material not only fits perfectly, but I think it also looks good on.  Since I suffer from Discoid Lupus, proper protection from the sun's rays is very important.  I confess I've gone hatless for too long because of the usually wrong fit and/or style.

About 24 years ago I was diagnosed with Discoid Lupus, and auto-immune disorder that affects the skin.  Proper protection via sunscreen and hat wear is extremely important.   Although I religiously apply  sunscreen lotions to my face, especially my nose (where I tend to get lesions), I often go without a hat because I've never found the perfect one.  A baseball cap is too sporty to wear to client meetings and it really doesn't provide enough all around shading.  So, you can just imagine my delight when I came across this hat by Eric Javits.  It fits perfectly, it's stylishly sophisticated and I believe it was designed just for ME.  I'm now trying my best to carry it everywhere and wear it as often as I would a pair of sunglasses for all the same reasons.  

What do you think?  Do you like it?

Celebrating A Father

Last weekend while we were camping,  I observed our children interact with Alex in way that seemed to define who they are as kids and who Alex is as a father.  Their individual connection with Alex was uniquely different, but true to their personalities.  In a span of about 25 minutes the above scenes took place.  Max began the mini marathon for daddy's attention.  Serious and passionate about his topic, he drew Alex in immediately, who listened very closely.  Alex responded in way that persuaded Max to think further and deeper about his ideas.  Zoe, who was feeling left out, stepped in for some hugs and kisses, not be [happily] denied either.  I can't remember what she and Alex talked about, but there were lots of smiles and reassurances that her concerns were just as important. Ben soon felt the urge to tell a story about something he did earlier in the day and, with lots of jumping, touching and funny face making,  he was able to get his message across as well.  While all this was going on, Alex was fully engaged with all of them sporting loving eyes and happy smiles.  
 

To see all them interact so seamlessly with their father is a testament to the love and respect they feel for him.  Allowing each one of them to be who there are and to navigate among their differences lovingly and patiently, is one of the many reasons I love and value my husband so very much.  

Happy Father's Day, Alex!

A Few Friday Favorites

1.  I love a round cutting board (especially one with a brass handle).

2. This reclaimed teak rocker personifies the perfect balance between modern and classic designs.

3.  A two-tone draped jumpsuit to wear at [just about] any summer gathering. 

4.  Simple and elegant this bedroom beckons all nappers.

5. A mixed metal bracelet to wear on its own or combined with others you already own. 

6.  For the brass obsessed (as in me), these pencil sharpeners.  

7.  The Hitchhiker Clog by Rachel Comey (someday I'll get my feet into a pair of her shoes). 

8. With the fleeting fig season upon us, this smoothie is right up my taste buds' alley.