Saturday at Home in California
Do you ever have one of those weeks when everything turns to crap? I often do, but this past one was a doozy.
I flew home from Vancouver on Monday, wearing a new Eileen Fisher vest and top—both in the color Alpine. That alone felt like a departure, since I usually stick to neutrals. But I didn’t stop there. I pinned on a few favorite brooches, tied on a fun, patterned scarf, and fully embraced the moment: color, pattern, and styling that was anything but minimal.
I felt stylish, but in retrospect, I looked and felt exhausted. Perhaps that’s why I kept adding accessories… for the lift and energy they can provide.
And then… things took a turn.
I won’t rehash it all here, but let’s just say I hit a wall. I sat down to write, and the words simply wouldn’t come. So I did the only thing I could…I gave myself permission to step away and let the blog be quiet. I’ve gotten into the habit of posting 5 days a week, so I felt a bit unnerved when it went quiet… but that’s all I could manage.
I’m also going to skip my Sunday email and see if I can start next week on a stronger footing.
Bestsellers last week:
These New Balance sneakers were the best-seller by a landslide. I love mine so much, I may order them in a different color.
This Zella knit tunic is also on its way to many of you…I’ll have to check it out myself!
Many readers ordered these Spanx straight-leg jeans! I love the way spanx pants fit so I’ll be ordering them to try.
This Ryka Walking sneaker was also very popular this week, as was this Vionic water repellent walking sneaker. We all know how important comfortable shoes are, so I’m glad to know you enjoy the content I share about them.
My new Vionic Moto Boots were also very popular this week. I love mine, so I hope you enjoy yours!
This Paul Green bootie was also a big hit! This brand is seldom on sale, so many of you took advantage of the markdown.
On my Radar:
I’m very excited to have an upcoming collaboration with Walmart for the holidays. I know many of you are budget-conscious, especially this time of year, so it will be fun to share my finds with you!
And on that note, a reader asked whether I would get credit for her purchase if she mentioned to the store staff that she learned about the item from me. Sadly, no. I only earn a small commission if you shop through my links online, and only if my link is the last one you click before purchasing.
I’ve been on the hunt for a brown woven suede shoulder bag. I spotted this amazing bag yesterday, but it’s only a clutch, and although that’s a popular style these days…I’m not that cool and prefer a handle of some sort. What I have been carrying is my new Cuyana tote in cherry!
Has anyone else noticed that the Google logo is candy cane striped? Argh…it’s not even Halloween yet!
Thanks for reading, and be sure to take time for self-care, in whatever form it takes.
Jennifer, happy you are listening to your body and taking a pause. Remember that it is OK and important for you, your family and those near and dear to you including your readers. We all come from a generation that did not embrace taking a break and there was guilt associated with it. This next generation has done much better on that as taking a break is embraced. Hugs!
You’re so right Cheryl! Our generation was told we could and had to, do it all!
I enjoy your posts so much BUT….your health, self care is more important. It’s hard to admit we need time off, isn’t it? Take all the time you need.
I thought you looked absolutely wonderful in the alpine outfit. One of my favorite looks. Particularly liked the way the pants and boots worked together. What size did you get in quince pant?
Hoping life will treat you gently this week….❤️
I’m wearing a L. I’ve put on a few pounds plus I hate tight clothes
Your new glasses are amazing. Stylish and chic, they are absolutely perfect on you. I switched to aviators a few years back and that’s the only style I entertain now- they just feel right, right now. Love to see them on you!
Thank you! They’re sure fun
hope you are feeling better soon! I am very happy to have less blogs per week, and have you be happy and healthy !
Xox
I hope and pray for good mental and physical health and healing. As for missing a blog or several, no worries. Do only what is good for you. Take care.
Thanks Pat!
Because of you I discovered Freida McFadden. Thank you so much,I’am on my fourth book. Love it when you talk about the books you are reading. Really enjoy your blog. Janice
If you’re looking for something to write about, I have an idea. Show an outfit that doesn’t work and then explain how to improve it. Sometimes I find there’s something wrong with my choices but I don’t know why. Enjoy your weekend and give yourself some quality time.
Not that you need it, but we give you permission to give yourself permission to take breaks from the blog. I suspect every one of us understands.
Jennifer,
Good for you pausing to catch your breath! We all need that some times.
I honestly don’t know how you do it week after week without a break.
When you do have the new post it’s good to see what’s up plus the comments. Hope that you have recovered from the not-so-fun stuff. Enjoyed your travel outfit you layered. I thought you looked great! Not tired, etc.
Have a restful weekend and cheers to you. Thanks as always for your inspiration.
Following your blog over the years I have often wondered where you get all your ideas and energy. Thanks for being open and reminding us that we all need to step back from time to time. Have a restful weekend!
Give yourself the grace to take care of yourself. Looking forward to when you are next inspired.
Hi Jennifer,
The Google logo celebrates the World Series. It is baseball stitching.
Whew! I don’t watch sports or TV so I assumed it was a candy cane. I’m glad to know it’s not.
I don’t always have a chance to read your daily musings, but when I do I love them! Thanks for a terrific blog.
YES, I have noticed the candy cane STRIPE. Stop the
Madness !! Can we enjoy the days and seasons as they come please. Kudos to Nordstrom (at least where I live) for not embracing Christmas decor and/or Christmas music yet. Here’s hoping shorts and swimsuits won’t hit the stores in January 🙄.
The Google logo is baseball striped for the World Series 😊Go Bluejays!!
Whew! Thank goodness
Oh. My. Gosh! You look so classic and elegant. That outfit you pulled together so chic!! Love it all, down to your boots! Give yourself grace, sometimes you just need to recharge.
I desperately need to recharge. I should have noticed it before I crashed.
Very Familiar with the feeling of “hit the wall”! May I offer advice someone gave me long ago? I ignored it for along time during my super productive career 😉 but I’m not ignoring it now: your body never tells lies….if it tells you to rest, do it.
Love hearing from you every day, but I’d rather hear from you less and healthy! 😘
Xx
Jennifer, I laughed out loud when I read your blog. I have many days and sometimes weeks that turn to crap ! I usually don’t admit it. Thanks for being real. I have been following your situation with your nose. Don’t be afraid if you have to have a biopsy. I had one done 2 weeks ago. It healed quickly. However mine is cancer and it will have to be removed. I am not looking forward to that. Have you ever worn Aetrix shoes ? I have and I found them very comfortable for my aging feet. Just like tires , our feet loose their fat padding as time goes on . Have a great weekend and Thank You for a great blog.
I’m so sorry to hear about your biopsy! I’m heading that way myself and need the grace to breathe through it.
Jennifer, Take care of yourself. You are such a wonderful writer. You have such great humor and wit. Write when you can. I know that your readers look forward to your blogs. Your research and detail help all of us. Kathy
Hi Jennifer,
I think the google logo is baseball stitching-not candy cane!
Go Blue Jays!
Hope your weekend is better than your week! Continue to practice self-care.
Karen from Winnipeg
Yes!