2025 – here we go!

WISHING EVERYONE

A HEART-FELT HEALTHY, HAPPY NEW YEAR.  I’d like to say “The Best is Yet to Come”  but I believe that really depends on us to do the best we can, to make it so.

A New Year is like a blank page.  A new Chapter. If you keep the page blank, it can never be edited, only a poorly written one can.  Think about that!

Once again; I don’t really have resolutions – only hopeful solutions to try to improve my personal circumstances and well being, and make things better in general.  Little improvements here and there.  I continually read labels and omit the bad stuff so eating healthier is always a given. If I really crave something sweet it’s likely not to make the cart if I read the label first. Darn; why did I read it!

Try to work out with weights again I don’t really like to as it’s important when you get older to prevent osteoporosis.

I wanted to join a book club because I found myself getting away from reading and so now I’m in two.  Careful what you wish for because now I have to take up speed reading (kidding).

Simplifing my daily life with quality over quantity which I think everyone should do.  Goes for food, friends, clothing…..did I already say clothes? I’m working on it.

More pajama parties.  As much as I love getting dressed up, there’s something to be said for going out in something you can just go home to sleep in.

I asked Adele & Layla to be respectful and wear t-shirts, as they usually sleep in the nude.

And finally, get more inspiration to spark creativity. This can come from many things.  Not only art and culture, but books, music, nature, people and personal experiences of joy, sorrow, success, or failure that shape our perspective. Which reminds me, I have to post pics of David Hockney; Perspective Should be Reversed from Palm Springs Art Museum.  I was totally inspired by his diverse works of art.  I really want to buy one of  his art books but I don’t have enough coffee tables.

I’m off to the Palm Springs Film Festival (PSIFF) which begins on January 3rd and ends on the 13th.  I’ll be back here with reviews, rants and recommendations on whatever I see.

How about you?  Any resolutions and how do you feel about grown-up PJ parties?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Holidays 2024/25!

Some pics from the the past few weeks.

At Restaurant 849
From Erika’s “Naughty Santa” Party.

As we celebrate the season of joy, be it Christmas or Hanukkah, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes to each one of you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me.

My dear friend Rosa came to visit from Vancouver.
At V Wine Lounge with Chocolate PepperMint-inis.
With Candy + Sherri (in middle) at Sherri’s “California Caftans” home sale. She sells the most beautiful 100% silk caftans +kimonos. https://sherijohnson.com/

This festive time is about more than just the presents under the tree—it’s about the love we share, the memories we create, and the hope we carry into the New Year. Remember, the best gifts in life are not found under the tree but in the hearts of those we hold dear.

Kiki’s book club in her beautiful home. We discussed “From Here to the Great Unknown” A memoir from Lisa Marie Presley which was finished by her daugher Riley Keough. Although disturbing at times; a fascinating read about a famous family. Next up: “Midnight Library.”
With Ramona at opening of Hall Napa Valley Wine Bar at the new Thompson Hotel.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it’s natural to reflect on some of the challenges we’ve faced. Yet, amidst the darkness, it’s the glimmers of light that remind us of our strength and resilience. Each dawn brings with it a promise of renewal and the possibility for brighter days ahead. Let’s hold onto the small joys and victories that sustain us.

With Tammy, Mary + Kathy at Lola Rose at Thompson Hotel. https://www.lolaroseps.com/

With Kathy at Willie’s Modern Fare in Rancho Mirage for high tea at”Girls Wear Your Pearls” – International Wear Your Pearls Day.  An arrangement by our mutual friend Candy.  https://www.williesrm.com/

With Lynn, Brenda + Candy.

Let’s continue, or at least try to embrace the power of optimism. It’s not about ignoring the difficulties but about finding the courage to believe in better days.

With Brenda, Erika + Mini.
Holiday Yappy Hour at Boozehounds (Mia, Adele + Layla).  Adele’s sweater says “I ate all of Santa’s Cookies” – very appropriate for her.  Layla’s dress has a tulle skirt that says “Santa Baby.”  Both from PetCo.  Mia’s presence is a present in itself.

Here’s to new beginnings and wonderful adventures in 2025 and beyond.

CHEERS TO LIFE

 


Surf Palm Springs!

I’m not talking about the Internet. Aside from the caftans and cocktails, there’s a new wave in town.

Hard to beat the perfect waves with the perfect weather.

Waves for die-hard surfers to ones just starting out, Palm Springs now has its very own surf club.  The Palm Springs Surf Club (PSSC), formerly the Oasis Water Park, opened its doors on New Year’s Day, 2024. It will celebrate one year coming up in a few short weeks from now. 

Fake it till you Make it.

A cool looking dude – somewhat relevant to this post.

The PSSC uses advanced pneumatic wave technology to create state-of-the-art customizable waves for surfers of all skill levels. The waves can accommodate up to 25 surfers at once and use only 1% of the water volume of a typical golf course.

Have no fear!  There are sharks in these waters, but not of the killer kind.

They offer lessons too (but not for dogs, in case you were wondering).  They also have a restaurant on the premises with a very good Happy Hour menu.  So if you’re a hungry voyeur, you can just eat and watch.

PSSC Boutique (hey; I have that towel and ps: it fades)

James Dunlop is the founder of PSSC.  The club was created by a partnership between three pro surfers: Cheyne Magnusson: A professional surfer and wave curator at Waco Surf in Texas, Kalani Robb: A professional surfer and surf icon and Tom Lochtefeld, The founder of Surfloch Wave Systems, which pioneered the pneumatic wave technology used at the PSSC.

Photos: d. king

For more info:

The Spa at Séc-he

The place to refresh and awaken your mind, body, and spirit.

Last month I met a friend from my past who was visiting another friend here in Palm Springs.  We had a spa day like no other we’ve ever had before. At a genuine day spa – because you need at least one full day to enjoy the various mineral pools, jacuzzi’s, halotherapy salt caves, grounding room, eucalyptus steam room, acoustic wellness lounge, fitness room (if you so choose to work out – we did not) and food from health-forward on-site Málmal Café.  I arrived there at 10:00 am – left at 6:00 pm – almost closing time. 
My personal treatment – an aromatic 90-minute powerful warm quartz scrub/massage which felt like lying on a bed of heated desert sands.  I lay on a zero-gravity bed that had crushed quartz stones underneath and a massage roller.  At some point there was an infrared-light dome that went over my body as I lay on my back while getting a neck/scalp massage.  The best!

The Spa at Séc-he provides a wellness experience unlike any other in the Coachella Valley.  The setting is serene and inspired by the healing powers of sacred mineral hot springs which it is built around.  For centuries, Séc-he has been the center of Tribal life for the Agua Caliente people, imbued with cultural and spiritual significance.

Séc-he is one of the most important cultural resources cared for and protected by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Séc-he (“the sound of boiling water”) is an ancient hot mineral spring that is remarkable in both form and function. Here, rainwater and mountain snow melt naturally, collect underground and emerge from the ground at a rate of 26 gallons per minute. 

Geologic surveys have revealed the unique nature of this ancient hot mineral spring, which is not connected to any other water source in the Coachella Valley. It exists in a chamber 8,000 feet below the surface, where the earth heats it to temperatures nearing 180 degrees. Unlike other natural sources of geothermal energy, which typically make their way to the surface through fissures created by seismic activity, Séc-he travels up a unique, natural pipeline, absorbing minerals such as calcium, magnesium and sodium on its 1.5-mile journey and cooling to about 105 degrees as it reaches the desert floor.

I don’t remember being that relaxed ever in a long time.

Photos: d. king

To book a treatment and to find out more:

 

Home

 

Easy-Going Outfits for Going Out

Making life easier – one outfit at a time.  

This is my first fashion collaboration with Suzy Walsh, a fellow fashion enthusiast and blogger, who has contributed her expertise to the fashion and beauty community for over a decade. She reached out to me when my site grabbed her attention when searching online for fashion inspiration.  How nice. Since I haven’t been keeping up my fashion posts as regularly as before, I invited her to write something.  Starting with:

What to Wear this Weekend and Beyond. Creative ways to incorporate style and comfort for casual outings.

Choosing the perfect going-out outfit can be both exciting and daunting. If you’re headed to dinner with friends, a night on the town, or a casual meet-up, the right outfit can set the tone for your evening. The key is finding a balance between style and comfort to look great and feel at ease.

Creativity lets your wardrobe work for various events without breaking the bank. From bold statement pieces to timeless classics, the possibilities are endless.

These 9 stylish and versatile outfits are perfect for any weekend occasion and any time you want to step out looking your best.

1. Little Black Dress (LBD)

Image: avecamber.blogspot.com

A little black dress is a timeless piece that works for any outing.  Choose one with modern accents, such as asymmetrical cuts, ruffles, or a backless design, for a more striking revival of the classic look.  Add some metallic accents and bold heels for a very attractive ensemble.

Keep it in perfect condition for the next event by storing it on one of the luxury clothes hangers that keep the delicate fabrics protected along with the upscale sensibility of your wardrobe. Proper care doesn’t only make sure the dress lasts long but also gets ready for the next stylish outing.

This outfit is perfect for everything from casual parties to upscale events.

2. Denim-on-Denim Done Right

Image:  dtkaustin.com

Denim-on-denim can be incredibly stylish when done correctly.  Pair a light-wash oversized denim jacket with darker skinny jeans or a straight-leg fit for balance. Add a fitted top underneath for the perfect structure and style.

Accessorize with white sneakers for a casual vibe or ankle boots for something more elevated. A crossbody bag ties the look together. Consider a bold-colored belt or scarf to break up the denim tones and add contrast. Finish the outfit with minimal jewelry to keep the focus on the textures and layers.

For the evening, switch to heeled mules and a red lip for added glamour.

3. Satin Slip Dress

Image:  busbeestyle.com

A satin slip dress exudes elegance and is very versatile. It’s chic with heels alone and an edgier look paired with a leather jacket. Minimal jewelry and a clutch would make the whole look very cohesive.

For a more relaxed evening out, drape on a lightweight scarf or cropped cardigan to add warmth to the look without compromising the style. The best part is that you can easily interchange it between casual nights out and formal gatherings, and it will never let you down.

Its lightweight fabric makes it a comfortable yet stylish option for long evenings out.

4. Crop Top and High-Waisted Trousers

Image: jeansandateacup.com

This combination gives a rather flattering silhouette that is comfortable and chic. Take high-waisted trousers in neutral or bold colors and pair them up with a fitted crop top and a denim jacket. For a final touch, define the waist with a belt.

Add block heels and a simple necklace to round out this effortless chic. These appeal well to dinner with friends or at rooftop parties, balancing what’s casual and sophisticated. When the evening gets chilly, bring a light jacket or a blazer.

It’ll keep you warm enough without compromising the style.

5. Oversized Shirt with Cycling Shorts

Image: whaelse.com

This sporty combination is perfect for a casual yet trendy outing. Pair an oversized shirt with fitted cycling shorts for a balanced look. Opt for a sweater in bold colors or patterns to make a statement, and add chunky sneakers for comfort.

Polish the look with a crossbody bag and layered necklaces. Roll up the shirt sleeves for a relaxed look, and slide the baseball cap on for that little athleisure touch. It is so easy to throw on, comfortable yet fashionable, and it becomes the go-to outfit for laid-back days.

6. Light Gray Sweatshirt with Leather Pants

Image: theannaedit.com

Pairing a crisp light gray sweatshirt with sleek leather pants creates a stylish blend of casual and edgy. Opt for a sweatshirt with subtle embellishments, like embroidery or textured fabric, to add depth and interest to the look. Tuck in the sweatshirt slightly for a polished yet relaxed vibe.

Complete the outfit with point-toe heels to balance the casual top with the boldness of the leather pants. Add a structured bag to elevate the ensemble, and incorporate layered gold necklaces or hoop earrings for a touch of sophistication.

Finish the look with a sleek hairstyle, like a low bun or straightened locks, to enhance the outfit’s modern, refined appeal.

7. Floral Maxi Dress with Denim Jacket

Image: theteacherdiva.com

A floral maxi dress is such an outfit that can flow smoothly from day to night. Carry a flowing maxi with natural beauty and style, pair it with sandals for casual outings, heels for evening events, a jacket, etc. Add a denim jacket for warmth and structure, especially on cooler nights.

Delicate jewelry can do the trick with dainty necklaces or bracelets for that touch of femininity. To finish the look, one can add a woven or leather handbag to complement the outfit’s color palette perfectly.

Add a light scarf or hat to set the season’s personal tone and charm.

8. Knitted Co-Ord Set

Image: fashion-agony.com

Knitted co-ord sets are perfect for a cozy yet fashionable outfit. Look for cropped sweaters paired with matching skirts or trousers for that stylish look. Neutral tones for the classic look and bold colors will make a statement.

Accessorize with ankle boots and a structured bag for a polished finish. This outfit is ideal for casual dinner plans or low-key gatherings with friends. Complete the look with natural makeup and soft waves for an effortlessly chic appearance.

With its comfort and style, this look is essential for transitional seasons.

9. Printed Blouse with Neutral Bottoms

Image: thriftywifehappylife.com

Add personality to your outfit with a printed blouse, neutral trousers, or pencil skirt. Use bold patterns to make a bold statement and understated bottoms to create balance. Finish with pointed-toe flats or heels and a structured bag to complete the sophisticated look.

It will look great in the evening and daytime when supplemented with minimum accessories. Add a Blazer with a couple of layers of sophistication whenever needed. Experiment with subtle jewelry or bold lip color to elevate the look further, making it versatile for various settings.

A bit about Blazers:

Blazers don’t have to be restricted to the office.  Take for instance, a short leather skirt and a fitted blouse under a tailored blazer, which can be sleek and playful. Satin or sequin textures will add a hint of glamour. Add knee-high boots or sleek heels to make the outfit suitable for dinner or drinks. Pair it with a fitted top or lace cami underneath, and carry a structured clutch to elevate the ensemble. This makes it versatile to balance sophistication and fun,  It can be a go-to choice for various occasions.

Pair a jumpsuit with a blazer as an easy choice that eliminates the need for mixing and matching. Choose one with wide legs, dramatic sleeves, or a standout print for added flair. Opt for rich fabrics like velvet or satin to make the outfit feel even more luxurious. Simple heels and a clutch for an effortless touch of sophistication are necessary. For more drama, add statement earrings or a layered necklace on the neckline to tie the outfit together. This kind of outfit is perfect for parties or lively social events, guaranteeing you stand out wherever you go.

Wrapping Up!

These going-out outfits help you feel confident and stylish for any occasion. Adapt them to your style to keep it casual, or dress to impress. Each look offers a perfect blend of comfort and flair, ensuring you’re ready for anything. The right outfit can set the tone for unforgettable moments.

Author – Suzy Walsh is a renowned fashion expert and blogger who has contributed to several fashion websites and blogs as a guest author. With her vast knowledge and experience in the fashion industry, She has become an authority on fashion trends and sustainable fashion.

 

It’s about Time!

You know there’s just not enough hours in the day, but I thought it’s about time I wrote something about time.  Because everyone has a relationship with time.  And as with any relationship, it could be good or bad.

Time is a tool to structure our days, weeks, and lives. Calendars, planners, and digital apps help keep track of appointments, deadlines, and events. Unfortunately, humans don’t have a personal built-in time manager.

But it got me thinking as to what it would be like it we didn’t have to think about time?  Other than appointments, what exactly are we measuring? The time to sundown? The time until dinner? Bedtime? Our next favorite show on TV?  Is time really on our side?

Does anybody ask anyone for the time anymore… 

…because there’s simply no excuse not to know what time it is.  We have laptops, smart phones, smart watches, hell; now there’s even *smart eye glasses.

Nonetheless, I just went out to buy a wall clock.  I know… a wall clock! How many people own one? I hemmed and hawed at first, but bought one anyway. Mostly because there was an empty space on my wall where a clock once hung and I kept staring at the empty spot. My new clock fills the space with huge, black legible numbers, instead of roman numerals. What surprised me was how many clocks the store had in stock.  Regular clocks and watches seem antiquated now but I guess there’s still a market. Not many people wear watches solely for telling time nowadays. I wear a watch that I can barely read because little diamonds replace the hour markers.  I wear it not to tell the time, but as a nice jewelry piece.

Have you ever taken, or had time to stop to wonder what it would be like it we didn’t have to think about time? We could wake up when we feel like it, and not to an alarm clock. No set work schedule or punching of clocks, and no way to monitor the timing of wonderful (normally 60 minute) massages. Wouldn’t that be nice? Or would it?

Everything we do revolves around time. 

The typical person consults their clocks several dozens of times a day. We have a schedule and almost everything we do has to be done on time.  Remember when, before streaming, we had to sit down in front of a television at a set time to watch our favourite program?  Oops…think I just dated myself.

At an opera they give you a ten minute pre-show warning and if you’re not at your seat they close the doors.  You just paid big money so you better sit down.

If you’re meeting someone, out of respect you cannot (or should not) keep others waiting. There’s a grace period of let’s say 15 for me it’s 5 minutes before someone will start to get annoyed. God forbid you go over time with a lawyer or therapist.

Timing is important too.  Everything major that’s happened in my life had been due to good or bad timing.  I think that’s the case for everyone. But that’s a separate topic for another time.  I would elaborate more on this but I don’t want to be late for a very important date.

How about you? Are there areas in your life where keeping an eye on the clock has been particularly important or challenging for you? Do you feel that you wasted your time reading this post?

Sidenote on *Smart Eyeglasses: most smart eyeglasses can tell the time, displaying it on their small heads-up display, allowing you to see the current time without needing to check your phone or watch; this feature is considered one of the basic functionalities of most smart glasses.  I found this out when I asked someone for the time (yes I did) and he gave me the time without looking at any device.  Then he took a photo of me with his glasses. He then showed me the pic on his phone.  It’s so hard to keep up with technology.