August in Review
In looking at August in review, I’m blown away by what an all-around terrific month it was. Not only did I get to experience some incredible music, food, cocktails, and adventures, I got to share in all of those experiences with my husband and friends. September has a lot to live up to.
All signs pointed to a peaceful and fun August.
Around LA – What to do in Venice Beach
Iconic Venice Beach offers a vibrant and singular escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, even for us locals. You can spend an entire weekend exploring Venice and not even scratch the surface of what the lively beach town has to offer and lately I have been doing just that. The end result, this guide, is a diverse lineup of my very favorite attractions and stops in Venice Beach.
One of Venice Beach’s ever idyllic canals.
Gratitude in August
August has been quite the month of rejuvenation for me. As I mentioned in July, life had started to feel a bit out of control and I was very much needing to take a time out. While I can’t say I exactly achieved the complete break from reality that I desired (who can?), I did do a much better job at listening to my body and what it needed over the past thirty days than I have done in quite some time. The end result is a more rested, relaxed and creative me and for that I am profoundly grateful.
The last month served as a fantastic reminder of the importance of self-care in all of our lives. It was a topic that came up in the comment section of last month’s post on gratitude when I asked for suggestions on how to juggle life’s responsibilities without burning out. Your recommendations and helpful words have been on my mind ever since.
Spotlight on Style – Transitional Pieces from Monsoon
Monsoon, a UK based company, was founded in 1972 by Peter Simon after he returned from a lengthy road trip around Asia. With an original concept of sourcing clothes from India and the Far East, the company focused on merging modern design with traditional materials and techniques.
Monsoon’s initial offering was a range of colorful hand-block printed clothing made from natural cotton and organic vegetable dyes. The unprecedented success of that line led to the opening of the company’s first brick and mortar store in 1973 in London.
Forty plus years later Monsoon and offshoot accessories brand, Accessorize, have over 1,000 physical locations worldwide. Though the company has experienced immense success over the past four decades, the brand has remained firmly rooted in their humble beginnings and focused on promoting sustainable fashion and global change through trade.
Color Block Backpack / Parka Jacket / Off Shoulder Dress / Block Heel Sandal / Stripe Trouser / Suedette Dress / Duffle Bag / Western Weave Boot / Denim Skirt