The Rich Life (on a budget)

Let It Be Tee

2013-05-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

I caved in to the graphic tee trend and spent $14 on a Let it Be tee from Old Navy. Let it Be was one of my favorite songs as a child and you know, it has never gotten tiresome all these decades later.

At first I thought I was too old to wear such a shirt. But then I decided that the mere fact that I was alive in 1970 when the iconic song Let it Be was released gave me permission to wear this tee no matter what my age...and also, I don't care if I am too old or not. I am tired of silly fashion rules that apply to women over 40. But that's a post for another day.

I wore my new tee with my second friperie find from Paris, this simple floral skirt I bought for 5 euros and a pair of Lucky Brand sandals.

I wore my outfit to Landmark Winery for a picnic with my husband and our two Yorkies, Daisy and Coco. Landmark is a lovely and relaxing place. With great wine, a bocce court, soothing fountains, a pond, lots of colorful flowers and horse-drawn wagon rides, what's not to love?

My husband packed up a healthy low-carb lunch for us to accompany the bottle of chilled Overlook Chardonnay we bought in the tasting room once we arrived.

Dogs are allowed at Landmark which makes me like it even more. I love to watch Daisy and Coco run free...

and roll around in the grass.

This will likely be the only graphic tee I buy. I don't think it's a trend I'll get in to much but I like this particular tee mostly because it says something I like and the colors are neutral.

What about you...

Are you wearing graphic tees this season?

Be sure to stop by Patti's blog for Visible Monday.

And remember that How I Wear My: Floral is coming up on June 4th! Submit your photo by the 3rd of June to be included.

BRCA Testing Insights

2013-05-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the comments on Tuesday's BRCA post. I appreciate the support, thought-provoking remarks, and especially the personal stories that were shared.

There are so many brave, intelligent, articulate women out there and for each of you, a different take on the topic of genetic testing and preventive surgery.

I find this issue fascinating, perhaps because it was already on my mind when the Angelina Jolie story broke. Or perhaps because it touches so many of our lives and sort of joins us together in a way. We all fear cancer and we all carry the risk of getting cancer. One in the three of us will get some form of it and certainly all of us have had experience with cancer whether personally or with a loved one.

Yesterday I spent a couple of hours taking the online class required to submit my application for BRAC1 and BRAC2 gene testing. The class is followed by a brief test for which I received a certificate that I must mail to San Francisco. My packet is going into the post today.

Informative, insightful, interesting and at times, frightening, the class answered many questions I had about BRCA testing and many that I didn't.

Given enough time, I could write a very lengthy post about all that I learned. Instead I want to tell you a few things that stand out in my mind and that may be of interest to you.

~ First, the BRCA test is not as cut and dry as you might think.

I may test negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 but that does not mean I don't carry some other gene mutation for hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancer.

There are dozens of other undiscovered genes that cause hereditary breast cancer that are thought to cause between 30 - 70% of all hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. It's entirely possible that there is a third BRCA gene, yet to be detected.

Here I thought I would have my choice of either:

A) Yes, you have the BRCA gene mutation and have an X% of getting breast cancer and a Y% of getting ovarian cancer.

B) No, you don't have the BRCA genes. Your risk is low. It's the same risk that most people have for sporadic breast and ovarian cancers.

These are the real choices:

A) Yes, you have the BRCA gene mutations.

B) No, you don't have the BRCA gene mutations but because of your family history you may have some other gene which would increase your chances for breast and ovarian cancers but we are not capable of identifying them right now.

~ Second, there are other measures that can be taken toward prevention that don't include surgery. MRI scans, chemotherapy and lifestyle changes are a few alternatives to a mastectomy and/or oophorectomy (ovary removal) for those with hereditary risks.

Should I get to the juncture in this process where preventative steps need to be taken, all options will be explored before making a decision. Drastic surgeries are, of course, not to be taken lightly.

~ Third, the hereditary genes for breast cancer and ovarian cancer can be passed down from both of your parents, not just your mother. Of course, this makes sense but I think it's more common to always look at the mother's family history since these cancers are found mainly in women. Your father's family history weighs just as much as your mother's. It's helpful to know as much as you can about both.

~ Lastly, I think it's important for everyone to know about Myriad, the company that administers and carries the patent for the BRCA tests. The patent is the reason they can charge such a high price, about $3500, which in turn makes it too costly for many women to have unless their insurance is willing to pay for it.

And there is a suspicion, brought to my attention by a reader, that the statistics having to do with risks of cancer in those testing positive for BRAC genes are inflated.

Currently, the Supreme Court is reviewing whether companies such as Myriad can continue to hold a patent for the procedure of taking the genes out of the human body to research. It's an interesting and important case that is worth following. You can read more about it in this article.

Rather than worrying myself needlessly with the unknowns and trying to predict what I would do in every possible situation - which is frankly exhausting - I am going to actively choose to take things as they happen.

My first step of taking the class is complete. Now I wait up to two weeks for a genetic counselor to contact me regarding an interview. There is no guarantee that I will get the test and there is always a chance that after speaking with the genetic counselor I will decide not to take it. I doubt that will be the case but I cannot rule anything out.

I know this isn't the sort of post you expect to see on The Rich Life but it's an important topic to so many people, including me, that I thought it warranted further exploration.

I plan to be back by the end of the week with a much lighter topic but in the meantime,

what are your thoughts?

Does this additional information change your perception of the BRCA test?

BRCA Test Motivation

2013-05-14T17:36:00.001-07:00

Today the New York Times ran an op-ed piece written by Angelina Jolie. In it, she announced that she has had a double mastectomy as a preventive measure against breast cancer, as she has tested positive for the BRCA gene.

The timing of this news could not have come at a more interesting time for me. I am in the middle of deciding between applying for insurance coverage to get a BRCA test or not. In fact, my paperwork showed up in the mail just yesterday.

This is not the first time I have considered being genetically tested for breast cancer. Breast cancer has occurred on both sides of my family. My mother, who was diagnosed at 37-years-old, beat hers and has remained cancer-free since the 1980's. However, my fraternal grandmother did not beat hers and passed away fourteen years ago.

In 2009, I applied to have genetic testing but was denied by my insurance company. Once I changed insurance, I was offered to try again but declined. At that time, I didn't want to know and I had convinced myself there was security in being previously denied. I must not be a strong candidate, right?

If I tested positive for the BRCA gene, then what? The options were frightening for me to consider. I didn't think I could handle making the difficult decisions to either keep or remove my breasts and ovaries. I decided it would be well enough to continue to be diligent with my annual exams.

After my recent yearly mammogram last month and my subsequent visit with a breast specialist to determine whether the lump I felt was something concerning or not (it's not), I finally decided I was ready to apply for the test.

Last week I called the phone number given to me by the breast specialist and requested the necessary paperwork. If I am accepted, my insurance will pay for the test, which runs about $3000.

When the instructions arrived in the mail yesterday I opened it, glanced at it for a moment, then left it on the kitchen island where it still currently sits.

I became scared again and those former feelings of wanting to run away from it resurfaced. I told myself I had more pressing things to do. And besides, I just had a mammogram that turned out clear. The genetic testing could wait.

I am certain the paperwork would have way eventually made its way to the kitchen junk drawer had I not read the op-ed by Angelina Jolie today.

I have admired and respected Ms. Jolie for years for her tireless philanthropic work to help less fortunate people. And I appreciate that in her article she doesn’t sugarcoat the fact that it’s not a short, pain-free, easy process to have a mastectomy with reconstruction. The fact that she was so honest about that part actually gave me comfort in a way because I believe she can be trusted. And she made me feel that if she can handle it, I can too.

Angelina Jolie went from having an 87% chance of getting breast cancer to 5% chance. Hearing those statistics probably made her decision crystal clear. If I am accepted for BRCA testing, and my results show that I, too, am carrying the BRCA gene, I am certain my decision will be crystal clear as well.

This week I am going to be brave like Angelina and take the first step towards BRCA testing by registering for an online class required as part of the application process.

Angelina Jolie’s purpose in revealing her double mastectomy is to motivate others to get tested for BRCA. Count me as one who has been motivated!

What do you think of Angelina Jolie’s decision?

Have you considered BRCA or similar genetic testing?

What are you thoughts on drastic preventive surgeries?

Leopard Maxi for Mother's Day

2013-05-12T19:55:00.000-07:00

If you celebrated Mother's Day, how was your weekend? Mine was wonderful!

Saturday evening, the my three stepchildren made me a special dinner. They set a beautiful table, brought me bright orange tulips, gave me two boxes of my favorite sugar-free candies and a dry erase board for my office, and even cleaned up afterwards. I had nothing to do but enjoy myself and relax. My idea of a fantastic Mother's Day!

They also each gave me heart-warming cards which I am keeping on our mantle for awhile so I can read and re-read them whenever I feel like it.

I am abundantly grateful to have three thoughtful, respectful, kind, warm and funny children in my life. My stepkids never fail to let me know how much they love and appreciate me...and the feelings are mutual.

On Mother's Day, it was just the two of us as the kids were spending the day with their mother. My husband wanted to take me out to a winery. I saw an ideal opportunity to wear my new Gap Printed Drapey Maxi Dress in blue leopard print. With the weather in the low 80's, it was the perfect day for it.

Usually I shy away from wearing lots of print at once because I am so very tall (6'2"). I fear I will look like a walking set of drapes wearing prints on both top and bottom. But this dress doesn't seem to give that overly busy effect and I am not sure why. Any guesses?

With my dress, I wore these Michael Kors sandals. I find myself wearing them almost daily. They were such a great find at T.J. Maxx.

With such so much print, I kept the accessories to a minimum. I only wore a watch, a pair of delicate hoops and my Mulberry Bayswater satchel.

The dress was meant to be worn with a drapey neckline.

I will wear it like this one of these days, but I for my day out and about with my husband, I wanted a look a little more sassy and sexy so I pulled the neckline off my shoulders.

We went to one of my favorite wineries in the valley where I live, Imagery Winery. We bought a bottle of White Burgundy, a couple mineral waters, ordered a cheese plate and watched families play bocce ball, picnic and and enjoy the day - lovely and relaxing.

On our way home, we pulled over onto the side of the road to take some photos of a vineyard that happens to still have lots of California Poppies, our state flower, sprinkled amongst the grapevines.

It looked like a good place for an outfit shot!

How do you feel about wearing lots of print at once?

Please be sure to stop by Not Dead Yet Style to see what everyone is wearing for Visible Monday....

...and remember that How I Wear My: Floral posts on June 4th. Please send in a photo of you wearing something floral to me or Jill of Everything Just So by June 3rd to be featured!

Cool Weather Dressing and an Interview

2013-05-09T10:27:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my husband and I attended an afternoon event that required some dressing up. The weather was on the cool side for a change after a long run of sweltering hot days. I seized the opportunity to wear this dark pink and black tweed jacket that I found at Goodwill a couple of weeks ago for $4.00.

I just love the colors and the buttons and the structure is great too. Why do I find myself loving shoulder pads lately? Next thing you know, I'll be wearing stir-up pants and acid wash jeans!

I wore my Chanel-esque chain belt ($2.99 at Goodwill) with a pair of black J. Crew cigarette pants, a thin slouchy COS tee and bag I bought in Paris and my trusty and very comfortable Calvin Klein Dolly pumps.

I prefer cool weather dressing to warm. I like wearing rich, deep colors and layering my look with jackets, sweaters and scarves. I enjoy being able to take a plain outfit of jeans and a solid colored sweater and make it chic with the addition of a luxurious wool or trench coat. And wearing tall boots and leather gloves always makes me feel instantly more stylish.

Although I do like some summer clothes such as fun printed shorts, sandals, maxis and sundresses, to me warm weather dressing is more limited in choices than cool weather. And when I am not feeling my most confident, I'd rather not wear clothing that bares lots of skin.

How about you?

Do you prefer to dress for warm or cool weather?

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I have some news to share with you today! ShopAtHome.com recently interviewed me for their Articles page. The interview is now up on their site. I'd love for you to check it out!

You can read my interview HERE!

ShopAtHome is a digital coupon site that not only offers numerous discounts and perks to well-known retailers like Nordstrom, Macys, Kate Spade and Target, just to name a few, but it also pays you cash back for purchases you make at those retailers through ShopAtHome.

You simply sign up for a free membership, search for your desired retailer, click the "Shop Now" button and start shopping. Once you have made purchases, you will get your Cash Back Rewards check mailed to you!

Since I'm already shopping at many of their retailers, why not earn some cash back? Who doesn't love getting checks in the mail? Click here to sign up for your free account.

Yala Give Away Winner

2013-05-08T06:04:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered to win the Yala Give Away for the $75.00 voucher. I am pleased to announce that the winner is:

Jeannie of Gracefully 50!

Congratulations, Jeannie! I will email you your special $75.00 off code soon.

You still have 5 days to use your 20% off 'RICHLIFE20' code at Yala. It will be valid through May 13, 2013.

Many of us are celebrating Mother's Day this weekend. I am sure the mom in your life would love something from Yala. I know I would!

I own three Yala pieces:
Bamboo Dreams® Ali Maxi Dress, and two Bamboo Dreams® Kai Tops

If you celebrate Mother's Day, what are you planning to do on Sunday? If you're stumped for ideas, why not stay in and give her an afternoon tea at home that she will never forget.

My stepdaughters did just that for me a couple of years ago. It was such an incredible gift! You can read more about it here and in my latest Skimbaco Lifestyle article.

The Oriental Trend and Consignment Buys

2013-05-05T19:59:00.001-07:00

For many months, I have been keeping my eyes peeled for a pretty kimono. At first I thought I only wanted one to wear around the house as a robe or over a swim suit but then I started to see the Oriental trend making an appearance in street wear. With the right kimono, I knew I could incorporate a bit of the Orient into to my wardrobe.

My better clothing that I no longer want, I consign. Every couple of months, I stop in to peruse the ever-changing inventory and check what items of mine have sold.

Last week, I found this kimono style jacket with a beautiful Oriental design on the back at my local consignment shop for just $30, minus my 15% discount for taking store credit over cash for the things that I sold.

I wore it simply with boyfriend jeans and black tee in order to let the design and shape of the jacket stand out.

I like the dramatic shoulder pads and deep purple trim around the neckline. The shoulder pads add structure and the purple is less harsh than the black against my face.

I'm not sure how much I will be embracing the Oriental trend beyond this jacket. I think one piece is enough for me.

Are you wearing Oriental patterns and styles this season?

Also at the consignment shop I found some things for Tori. This darling dress would be perfect for her graduation day (Rodarte for Target, $10).

And I found a vintage cognac cross-body bag that she adores! Tori looked for a bag just like this one in the friperie shops in Paris but came up empty handed. When I saw this one, I had to buy it for her ($10).

My friend Melissa Tosetti, author of Living the Savvy Life, mentioned how I frequently shop secondhand on her blog, The Savvy Life. Melissa shops not only for used clothing but for used furnishings for her home, as well.

I'm thrilled I could inspire Melissa to shop secondhand more often. I'd like to inspire everyone to give secondhand shopping a try but I also understand when people are hesitant.

The other day a girlfriend of mine was admiring my copper bomber jacket that I bought at Goodwill for $6.00. She said she has a hard time thinking about secondhand clothes as anything but someone else's rejects.

For those people, I suggest giving consignment shopping a try. I think in most people's minds, consigned clothes have more worth than thrifted things. When clothing is no longer wanted and its owner believes the item is worth consigning, it is given a higher value than something tossed into a donation bin.

Some of my favorite consignment finds:
Brocade coat, J. Crew ecru blazer, brown tweed blazer.

Most consignment shops are just like regular boutiques: lovely displays, well-organized by color, style, type and/or size and an inventory full of designer brands. Many consignment shops actually focus on labels and have a set of standards by which they operate. For example, you will not find any Old Navy labels in my local consignment shop.

More consigned favorites: Raspberry Banana Republic sweater,
Laundry by Shelli Segal high-low dress,
Coldwater Creek silk blouse.

And while you might not score the huge deals you do at thrift shops, you also don't have to search through piles and racks of clothes you would never want in order to get to the clothes you do want.

Do you shop consignment?

Do you consign your unwanted clothing?

Stop over at Visible Monday and see who is wearing what at Not Dead Yet Style!

And be sure to enter my Yala give away and claim your 20% code exclusively for Rich Life readers!

Bamboo Dreams® Isis Maxi Dress

I'm using my code this week and have my eye on this little summery number!

Balancing it out

2013-05-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

Happy weekend!

I don't know about you, but this has been a long week. Not in a bad way, just lots of things going on.

My annual exams have finally come to an end after two weeks. I met with a new cardiologist who happens to be an atrial fibrillation specialist. She spent an entire hour with me giving me priceless information about my a-fib condition.

No longer am I as fearful of my a-fib as I have been for the last two years. It helps that I am now taking beta blockers. Taking meds is something I never wanted to do, but they are helping me feel so much better and the side effects are minimal. I am trying to change my thinking about medicine. Sometimes they are necessary for our quality of life.

Wednesday, I felt a small lump in my breast. Thankfully, I had already scheduled a mammogram for the next day. I also had an ultrasound and a consult with a breast specialist. It took most of the day to get a definitive answer, but an answer I got and it was...nothing! I love hearing the word 'nothing' in that context. Such an enormous relief!

I've never done a health check blitz like this before and I think, although it's time consuming, it's the way to go for me. Every spring, I plan on going in for a full tune-up. That way, I have it over with and tests won't sneak up on me anymore.

Do you like to get all your health tests done all at once? Or as needed throughout the year?

On to something fun and light...like shoes! My summer shoe wardrobe is complete. Along with my Nine West heeled sandals, I have a new pair of Havianas that I bought in Paris (sometimes I wonder about my shopping decisions while traveling - I can buy Havianas anywhere in California for much less money).

And I bought two new pairs of dressier sandals for summer. One in black....

Lucky Brand, $79

and another in a lovely cognac shade.

Michael Kors, $50 from T.J. Maxx

What goes best with sandals? A lovely nail color, of course! I bought a bottle of Esse 'Come Here'. It's a coral shade that has more orange than pink. I quite like it.

Are you wearing coral on your nails or have you added it to your summer wardrobe?

My dear friend, Susan, suddenly lost her beloved chihuahua a few weeks ago. Last weekend, she stopped by on her way to work to drop off a bed for Coco and Daisy that she had just bought for her dog shortly before she passed away.

Coco instantly took a liking to it and now it's become 'hers'.

I guess I need to find another one for poor Daisy. She's feeling left out!

Seeing Coco and Daisy with the kitty bed has provided endless entertainment for me this week. Thank you, Susan, for the thoughtful gift. I do hope that your sweet Roxy girl would be happy knowing her bed is being enjoyed so much.

The fire season is once again upon us but arrived a lot early than expected. Friday morning at 4:00 a.m., my husband was called out to the Springs Fire, a huge fire burning in Ventura county in Southern California.

In the last fourteen years of our relationship, I would guess that this is the seventh or eighth time he has gone out on a wild-land fire. But the first time he's traveling so far away and so early in the year. I'm trying not to worry about him but it's not easy.

Tori and I decided while her dad is away, we would make some of the foods he doesn't care for, like eggplant. I was exhausted from work last night so Tori offered to make dinner. She made these eggplant pizzas that were so fantastic. The recipe came from Julia Child, so you know it's good.

I think I may actually prefer them to cauliflower crust pizzas, which is really saying something.

In all honesty, this has been a very tense week. Between anxiety over my health and a husband in a dangerous situation far from home, it helps to be able to balance a challenging week with not so serious things like cute doggies, tasty food, and shoes.

I would be a total wreck if I allowed myself to only focus on the worrisome things. For me, it's all about balancing it out. What about you?

P.S. Have a read of my latest Skimbaco Lifestyle article.

It's all about a little spot of Italy right here in the Sonoma Valley!

How I Wear My: Metallics

2013-05-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the metallic looks I saw in so many shop windows in Paris this spring, this year’s Oscars, and the release this month of a very glittery movie rendition of The Great Gatsby, Jill of Everything Just So and I thought that for May’s “How I Wear My” post it was a great time to unleash our inner magpies!

A few shop windows in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood in Paris.
Too bad I was there on Sunday...the day all the shops are closed!

Jill is ready for spring in silver shoes by Bandolino with a silver belt by J. Crew. It's hard to tell from the photo, but the mint green top has tiny metallic threads woven throughout.

Tamera Beardsley brings glamour and glitter to a Southern California resort wearing a Rachel Zoe gold sequined top with a fringed H & M skirt and statement jewelry designed by her.

Pam of Over 50 Feeling 40 wore this beautiful gold pencil skirt from Talbots with a Michael Kors sweater to a recent Journalism Banquet.

Alicia of Spashionista Report carries a fantastic pewter skull envelope bag from Shi by Journeys, a Christmas present to her. Love the all white outfit with the skull bag and floral scarf!

Heather of Stylemindchic wears metallic on her date night on the town with a little sparkle with a J.Crew necklace, sparkle ring from her Stylemindchic boutique, shoes from Zara and top from Target. She mixed it down with denim for a casual evening look.

Viveka Rydell, CEO of PDI Surgery Center, a non-profit in Sonoma County that in five years has helped over 8,500 kids get dental surgery to treat severe tooth decay, wears her metallic "power suit" from Macy's when traveling to Sacramento to meet with legislators and testify in hearings to advocate against the proposed 10% cuts to MediCal reimbursements.

Jeannie of Gracefully 50 wears metallic in the form of a gorgeous and luxe Tod bag in silver. The entire look is so chic.

Suzanne of Suzanne Carillo Style Files looks ready for a night out on the town in gold heart shaped top and black pencil skirt. So glamourous!

Tori went to her senior prom last weekend and wore a BCBG high-low dress in a dusty pink with gold threads running through it. She brought out more of the metallic in her dress by wearing glittery gold nail polish and a gold ring she bought at COS in Paris.

Once a week, I stop by my local Goodwill to have a quick look around. Last week, I found this great copper colored leather bomber jacket, in great condition, for just $6.00.

I wore it with black skinny jeans, black tee shirt, pumps and a rhinestone belt, purchased several years ago in Jackson, Wyoming.

My favorite metallic piece in my closet is this gorgeous belt made by my friend, Debra. She designs one-of-a-kind, edgy custom leather fashion accessories that flatter the female form. The entire production is made in California with the best quality possible.
For product inquires, Debra can be reached at her Facebook page, De.V body. Or contact me and I'll happily put you in touch with her .

I'm wearing my De.V belt with the Yala Ali Maxi dress* and old denim jacket. This look just might be my summer go-to outfit this year.

As you can see, from nail polish to handbags, belts to tops,
the metallic trend can be worn in a variety of ways.

How are you wearing metallics this season?

Jill and I are now sharing the lovely participants of How I Wear My. Be sure to visit her blog to see many more great metallic looks.

For June, the month of roses, don’t you just want to cover yourself with glorious flowers? If so, please join us for “How I Wear My: Florals.” Send a picture to Jill or me by June 3.

And if you want, grab the How I Wear My badge for your own blog. The code is below my badge on the side bar.

*Be sure to enter to win the $75.00 gift certificate to Yala and get your 20% off discount code to use from now until the 13th. Click HERE to find out how to enter and claim your code!

From L to R: Bamboo Dreams® Renee Dress
Bamboo Dreams® Harper Pencil Skirt and
BambooDreams® Maddy Tunic

Yala Give Away!

2013-04-29T04:30:00.000-07:00

Last summer, while on a mother-stepdaugter vacation in Lake Tahoe, I came across a great top at a boutique. I bought it, brought it home with me and fell in love with its soft fabric, great fit, classic style, quality material and reasonable price.

Not satisfied to own just one, I quickly looked up the maker's name, located their website and ordered another top in a grayish taupe color with black stripes. I became a fan of Yala and blogged about how much I adore my tops (which you can read here and here).

Both tops featured are Bamboo Dreams® Kai Top

A few weeks ago, Yala found the posts I had written about them last year and contacted me. We decided that it would be great to further spread the word about what fantastic products Yala makes by offering a temporary coupon code to all readers of The Rich Life (on a budget) and a $75 gift certificate to give away to one lucky reader.

Yala offered to send me the Bamboo Dreams® Ali Maxi Dress in solid black to review. Of course I said, "yes!"

It also comes in stripes!

This dress is silky soft, very comfortable and has a flattering cut. It moves with my body and I can easily tell the quality of the material is high. It feels wonderful against my skin.

With its simple, feminine cut the Yala Ali Maxi is easy and quite fun to style!

I wore it with a black belt, black and gold flip-flops and some big gold earrings.

Then for a more casual look, I tied an off-white button-down at the waist, wore cognac sandals, and carried a cognac bag.

I put on a couple turquoise accessories for added color.

And for a more dressed up look, I wore a CAbi sweater, chain belt, ballet flats and a Louis Vuitton bag.

If I had had the time and energy, I am sure I could have created dozens of looks with the Ali Maxi dress. I plan to wear this dress often this spring, summer and into fall and am certain I will create many more looks with it.

Over the last few weeks, I spent some time getting to know more about Yala, their products and their company. As someone who is a big supporter of family-owned companies who care about fair business practices, are concerned about the environment and make high quality products, I am more than delighted to promote them.

This statement that I came across while reading their catalogue sums up their mission well:

"The name 'Yala' has many meanings throughout the world that together embrace a full, loving, passionate life. We strive to be true to these commitments in all that we do. Yala continues to build upon the elegant simplicity, social and environmental commitments, respectful global practices and high standards in quality and customer service we have held so dear in our fifteen years."

Yala Bamboo Dreams® clothing is made from organically grown bamboo from sustainably managed forests. Yala also carries organic cotton and pure silk products as well. From tote bags and scarves to tops and skirts...

L to R, clockwise: Cotton Canvas Tote, Organic Cotton Block Print Scarf,
Organic Cotton Mandala Tote, Bamboo Dreams® Zia Tank Top

baby and men's clothing, and even luxurious bedding and towels, Yala carries a wide range of quality products.

L to R, clockwise: Bamboo Dreams® Short Sleeve Onesie,
Jaya Collection - Organic Cotton Block Print Quilts & Shams,
Bamboo Dreams® Short Sleeve Tee, and
Bamboo Dreams® Organic Cotton Ribbed Towels

Yala also has a line of comfortable sleepwear options in a variety of darling styles.

L to R, clockwise: Organic Cotton Talia Nightshirt, Bamboo Dreams® Mandy PJ Set,
Bamboo Dreams® Nina Belted Robe

Now that you know about the great products Yala makes and what a wonderful company they are, you're probably wondering how you can enter to win the $75 gift certificate to use on Yala's website (open to U.S. residents only).

How to enter:

There are up to seven possible entries per person. Each item below is worth one entry.

1. Leave me a comment telling me you'd like to be entered to win.

2. Visit the Yala website and pick out your favorite Yala item, then come back and tell me its name in a comment.

3. "Like" Yala on Facebook.

4. Follow Yala on Twitter.

5. "Like" The Rich Life (on a budget) on Facebook.

6. Follow The Rich Life (on a budget) on Twitter.

7. Tweet the link to this giveaway to your followers and mention @Yaladesigns.

Please tell me in a comment or several comments which of the seven above you have completed so I can count your entries accurately. I don't want to leave any of your entries out!

The give away is open only to U. S. residents. The winner will be selected Wednesday morning, May 8th, 2013.

Additionally, Yala has generously offered my readers a 20% discount on all items on their website from April 29th - May 13, 2013. Just enter the code "RICHLIFE20" during checkout.

I am linking up with Patti and all her lovely participants for Visible Monday. Be sure to stop by and see who is wearing what today!

And it's last call for How I Wear My: Metallics submissions as it's fast approaching on Wednesday, May 1st. The deadline for photo submission is tomorrow afternoon, Tuesday, April 30th. Email your photo to me or Jill of Everything Just So before then to be included.

Disclosure: I was given the black Ali Maxi Dress from Yala to review and keep. All of my opinions about Yala and their products are my own.

Tuning Up, Shaping Up and Changing Up

2013-04-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

Spring is the time of year that finds so many of us making changes to better ourselves and improve all areas of our lives.

Kenwood Vineyards Winery

From healthier living and personal growth to creating a more organized home and trying new things, for me this season brings with it such promise and excitement.

Tuning Up

Getting a tune-up is not just for your vehicle, it's for your body too. Once a year I like to get a look under the hood regardless of how I am feeling. I've lined up all the necessary tests and doctors' appointments over the course of the next week to make sure everything is running smoothly. I am so thankful to have decent health insurance to allow me to get annual check ups. So many people don't have that luxury.

While it may not be much of a party to go to numerous appointments and have tests done, it's important to me to stay on top of my health. If I don't and I rely on Google searches about this ache or that pain, my mind will run amok with frightening self-diagnoses. Do you do that to yourself too?

Speaking of the mind, it's a good idea to tune that up as well. I am reading a wonderful book right now that is allowing me to do just that. The Untethered Soul offers useful and meaningful insight about our often destructive and bothersome inner voices and offers ways to deal with them. It also discusses how to live in the moment and find lasting happiness in our lives.

I usually read a section every night before bed and always end up pondering what I learned throughout the next day. It's one of the best spiritual/self-help books I have ever read. I like it as much if not more than The Four Agreements, and that's saying something.

I highly recommend this book if you're looking to give your mind a tune-up.

Shaping up

In 2004, I had a brief stint as a personal trainer and I taught a local exercise class. It's hard to believe that was once my career given the lifestyle I have adopted over the last several years of mostly sitting on my rear end with periodic bouts of walking and hiking here and there.

I find I am no longer motivated to exercise for want of that coveted bikini body for summer. Now I desire strength, energy and longevity.

Over the last few years, I have proven to myself that I can't be left to my own devices when it comes to exercise. I need accountability and a strong push.

A few weeks ago, I asked my longtime friend, Debra, a well-known exercise instructor and personal trainer in Sonoma County, to consider an outdoor morning fitness class for women of a certain age and she obliged! The class, which began this week, is fun, challenging, and an ideal way to begin the day. It doesn't hurt that some of my girlfriends are in the class, too.

Only two classes in and I am sore as I'll get out but I'm also already noticing changes such as better sleep, no afternoon drag, sharper thinking, and my body seems a little more taut. I also feel like my old self again...younger even.

If you're local and would like to join Debra's class, contact me for information. We'd love to have you!

Are you shaping up this spring?

Can you go it alone or do you need accountability and good push?

Changing up

After nearly three years of blogging, I decided the blog needs a change up. I hired a designer to give the old gal an updated look and get rid of some of its clutter.

I'm crossing my fingers that you like the new changes soon to come. The new blog should be up in the next few days. I am very excited!

Don't be surprised if things look a strange during the installation process.

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A couple of quick reminders for you all:

There are only a few days left to use your RICHLIFE code to get 20% off of a gorgeous Persolé Chic Shade™.

The special discount code is good through April 30th, 2013.

Also, How I Wear My: Metallics is happening next Wednesday, May 1st. If you'd like to be featured, and Jill and I would love to have you, please send me or Jill your photo by April 30th.

Have a rich day!

XO,

Adrienne

Preppy, Revisited

2013-04-21T17:22:00.002-07:00

Many years ago I was a preppy. Well, as preppy as a teenager living in Las Vegas, Nevada in the 1980's could be.

I wore argyle knee socks, penny loafers with actual pennies in them, madras shirts that clashed with my plaid Catholic school uniform, and was magnetically drawn to anything with the color combination of pink and green.

While my preppy days are long since gone, I will still pop a collar every once in a while. However, my style would not ever be described as preppy.

But when I saw these Callahan Lilly Pulitzer shorts online recently, I thought I might like to revisit my brief but memorable preppy days of long ago. I have never owned a single Lilly Pulitzer item until now. Since her recent passing, I have become more interested in her line and in knowing more about who she was.

Lilly herself.
{Credit}

Lilly, who married Peter Pulitzer in 1950, moved from New York to Palm Beach after her marriage. Pulitzer owned many Florida orange groves. Lilly opened up a juice stand and found that her clothing was constantly being soiled from the oranges. She decided to make shift dresses that were made from material in brightly colored prints in order to camouflage the stains.

Lilly started selling them at the stand and they become more popular than the juice. She decided to focus more on her dresses and less on the juice and opened her own company. And that is how Lilly Pulitzer, Inc. was created.

When my shorts arrived, I was delighted with the bright colors and fun pattern. But in order for me to keep them they had to be versatile. Could I wear them casually or dressed up? Would they work with my not pink, not preppy wardrobe? The answer is yes and yes!

For a casual, out for a picnic or running errands outfit, I wore a Gap oxford button down, Tory Burch flip flops (consigned) and carried a straw bag.

For a dressier look that I can wear out for cocktails and dinner on a warm evening, I wore a my Callahan shorts with a black tee, black 3/4 sleeve blazer, black belt, COS bag and Nine West sandals.

It's important to still look presentable without the blazer. It can get hot around here!

For my most preppy look, I pulled out my statement pearls, nude patent pumps, and a Louis Vuitton bag. This would be a fun look for brunch with girlfriends or a glass of chardonnay at the country club that I do not belong to. I can always be someone's guest, right?

Do you have a preppy style?

If not, did you once?

A few reminders for you!

How I Wear My: Metallics is coming up on May 1st. The deadline for photo submission is April 30th. Email your photo to me or Jill of Everything Just So before then to be included.

My friends at Persolé Chic Shades™are offering The Rich Life (on a budget) readers a 20% discount from now until the end of April! Just enter the code RICHLIFE at checkout to receive your discount.

Be sure to visit Visible Monday to see what everyone's wearing today!

Lastly, my latest Skimbaco Lifestyle article is out.

This week, I take you to the summit of the Eiffel Tower. You can read all about it here!

Have a rich day!

XO,

Adrienne

Spring Fever, Off-white Jeans, the Sonoma Coast and...a special offer for readers!

2013-04-14T15:29:00.002-07:00

Hi there, friends! What an absolutely gorgeous weekend we had here in Sonoma County. Spring fever has such a firm grip on me that I can barely stand to be indoors during the day. I even dragged my laptop to the front porch to write this post.

I hope some of you who are still enduring winter's wrath will soon get some relief. If I could, I would mail you some sunshine, flowers and blue skies.

Untouched photo of the vineyards at Kunde Family Estate taken 4/11/13

Saturday, we decided to finally use a gift certificate I won on Facebook late last year for a five-course crab dinner at River's End in Jenner.

Even though the restaurant was named one of America's Most Romantic Restaurants by Travel+Leisure magazine, we opted not to make it a date night and invited my wonderful stepdaughter, Tori, to join us.

It was a warm day in Kenwood, about 78 degrees, when we left the house. I wore a new slouchy tee in navy that I bought at Everlane and a pair of off-white skinnies. I got my old Clark's sandals out of storage and carried my cognac Mulberry satchel.

At home, it was sunny enough that I needed my Persolé for sun protection. I love how the olive ombre looks great with so many colors.

I knew it would cooler at the coast than inland - it always is - but I didn't realize it would be a full 30 degrees cooler with strong, gusty winds! I brought my trench coat but I should have brought a sweater, hat, gloves and a scarf. Tori and I had to lean into the wind to avoid being blown over!

We got to the coast well before our reservation so we stopped to for a drink on the patio at The Tides Wharf.

Afterwards, we drove around the area taking in all the rugged beauty of the coast until our dinner reservation at nearly 8:00 pm.

We watched sky turn to a brilliant bright orange as the sun set.

It was a fantastic meal. I gave Tori my 5-course, plus an amuse bouche, crab tasting meal and ordered oysters on the half-shell and fresh sea bass instead.

This was Tori's meal alone!

Clockwise from upper right corner:
An amuse bouche of avocado soup with a lump of crabmeat,
Asian Crab Salad, Crab Ravioli with Sauvignon Blanc sauce,
Tres Leches cake with vanilla ice-cream,
Lobster and Crab Cake, and Crab Bisque covered with puff pastry.

Of course we had to be helpful parents and eat some of it for her. Let me tell you, it was crabtastically delicious! My favorites were the Crab Ravioli and the Crab Bisque.

The Dungeness crab dinner is still available until the end of April if you'd like to enjoy it yourself. Be sure to bring your appetite!

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Persolé has been featured on U.S. Golf TV's blog!

The article includes a great interview with Founder and CEO (and my friend), Lisa Walsh, that I encourage you to watch. Click here to see it.

Here is Lisa, modeling the Cream Leopard Persolé.

Because of the great response to my recent Persolé giveaway, Lisa and Suzie have generously offered to give all readers of my blog a 20% discount to use at their website, PersoleShade.com, from now until April 30th, 2013.

Just enter the code 'RICHLIFE' at checkout to receive your discount!

And be sure to visit Not Dead Yet Style today for Visible Monday!

XO,

Adrienne

What I'm Liking Right Now

2013-04-11T06:29:00.001-07:00

Hi, friends!

Today's post is a potpourri - love that word - of things I'm liking right now:

1) Every morning between 6:00 - 8:00, seven days a week, I post a photo from around my small town on Instagram with the caption, "Good Morning from Sonoma Valley".

What I'm liking right now is that followers from Japan, Australia, Switzerland and other countries are wishing me a good day in return. Communicating with the world through photos is a wonderful way to start off the day. It makes the planet feel a little smaller.

If you're on Instagram, you can find me at therichlifeonabudget. Follow me and I'll follow you back!

Nine mornings worth of my Instagram photos from Sonoma Valley

2) What I'm liking right now is this Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner that showed up in my Birchbox subscription a couple of months ago. The first time I used it, I knew I'd be buying it regularly. Liquid eyeliner can be tricky. Eyeko Skinny makes it a breeze! It's like using a pen.

Here's a tip I learned recently from a makeup artist: Apply eyeliner on the eye that is more difficult for you to do first. That way you can more easily match the liner on the other eye to your first eye.

3) Every week on my way home from visiting Anna, I stop off at Goodwill for a quick look around. What I'm liking right now is shopping for big tee shirts in scoop or v-neck lines in larger sizes than what I normally wear. I like wearing them with a pair of boyfriend jeans or skinnies, partially tucked in with a cool belt and great shoes, for a casual everyday look.

I found two this week in excellent condition in the fit I was looking for, extra slouchy. Just $4.50 for both!

4) I'm on a smoothie kick these days. On most mornings, I pull out the old blender and combine unsweetened vanilla almond milk, ground chia and flax seeds, Jay Robb vanilla egg white protein powder, frozen berries, frozen spinach and a packet of Emergen-C. What I'm liking is it's a filling breakfast that is high fiber, low sugar, tastes great and is easy to make.

Here's a tip: make sure you blend your smoothie well because chunks of frozen spinach that you think are chunks of berries are not nice surprises for your tastebuds.

5) My Guess watch came back to me a few weeks ago looking all brand new with a new face and tiny missing crystals replaced. What I'm liking is the customer service that Guess watch provides. If my watch is damaged or worn out, I know where to send it. I am hoping to get another nine years out of this thing.

6) This black truffle mustard, with its earthy and slightly spicy flavors, is a new addition at the Maille shop on Rue de Madeleine in Paris. There, it's poured fresh out of the tap into your crock and packed up nice and tight for traveling.

What I like is the unique taste, like tasting a bit of Paris, and that the crocks are hand-stamped with the Maille label. I know this because mine is really crooked. But that's okay with me. I prefer things that aren't perfect. Perfect is boring.

You can read more about our very well-traveled mustard crocks here.

7) What I really like is Tori in her darling Paris thrift - or "friperie" - dress that she wore to school on Wednesday. This dress couldn't fit her any better. And she didn't even try it on until we got back to California.

8) Each time I've been to Europe, I spend a little time shopping in the pharmacies. I like looking around at all the different products and I usually buy something small like a European toothpaste or bandages to bring home with me.

On my recent visit in March, I stopped into a bustling pharmacy in the Left Bank and saw these Nuxe honey lip balm sticks in a big bowl at the counter. I bought a couple to bring home with me.

What I like is the lipstick shaped tip, the barely detectable scent and the moisturizing ingredients, all of which are natural. I apply a generous application each night right before bed.

9) When we were planning our Paris trip, one of my concerns was that my iPhone 5 would run out of battery power halfway through the day from all of the picture taking I knew I'd be doing. We'd be too far from our room to recharge phones during the day.

The solution? A Mophie battery booster. This thing is a must for a photo-junkie travel-lover like me. What I like is it gives me one full recharge, it's lightweight, sleek looking and it protects my phone from damage.

10) About 1/4 mile from our home is a walnut grove. Every spring, the farmer who owns and cares for the walnut trees sells big bags of the healthy and tasty nuts on his property.

He has a system in place. You drive past the rusted out pick-up truck to the old refrigerator standing in a field. You open it up, select the bag you want, then leave $15, cash or personal check, for each bag you take in the cash box on a table nearby the fridge.

What I like is living in the country, being trusted to pay for what I take, and eating things grown in my neighborhood.

What are you liking right now?

I'd love to hear...maybe I'll like it too!

XO,

Adrienne

P. S. My latest Skimbaco Lifestyle article is up and it's all about the darling boutique hotel in Paris where we stayed. You can read it here.

Persolé Chic Shade™ Winner!

2013-04-10T06:52:00.002-07:00

A big thank you to everyone who entered to win the

Persolé Chic Shade™ giveaway!

Supporting female-owned small business owners gives me great satisfaction. And the fact that Persolé owners, Lisa Walsh and Suzie Carter, are my friends and I adore their stylish and useful products makes it even more rewarding to get the word out about them to everyone I know.

Now, what you've all been waiting for.

The the winner of the Pink Ombré Persolé is....

The lovely, kind and charming Pam from Over 50 Feeling 40!

Congratulations, Pam!

Persolé has such an exciting future ahead of them. Later this year they are coming out with even more chic and functional sun protective items to add to their shades. You can be sure that once they are out, I will be telling you all about them!

XO,

Adrienne

Friperie Find from Paris

2013-04-07T16:57:00.001-07:00

Do you know what the French call a thrift shop?

A "friperie"

This is the friperie where Tori and I shopped, a former hair salon.

Isn't that a cute word? I think we should all start calling our local Goodwill, Salvation Army, vintage shops and any store where secondhand items are sold, friperies. It just sounds better to the ears than "thrift store".

Don't you agree?

Last month while we were in Paris, my stepdaughter, Tori, and I took a shopping excursion while my husband stayed behind in our hotel room and rested. She convinced me to explore a few of the friperies. Tori loves secondhand shopping even more than I do!

The friperie shops that we went to in Paris are much different than the thrift stores where I live. It was plain to see that the items had been carefully culled and only the best pieces make it onto the floor.

The racks are well organized and the items are all in good condition. Absent are the musty odors so common with secondhand shops around here and there is usually some loud, cool music playing in the background.

The Parisian friperie shops remind me of the 1980's vintage clothing boutiques on Haight street in San Francisco where I used to buy nearly all of my clothes in my late teens and early 20's.

Tori and I visited a couple of friperies before we found our favorite, pictured at the top. It was a busy day and the shop was tiny with only one fitting room that had a long wait. We had limited time so we picked out a couple of things we liked and took our chances that they would fit us.

Tori bought a dusty-rose colored mini-dress that is adorable and fits her perfectly for 10 euros and I found a floral skirt and this striped top, each for 5 euros. Remarkably, everything fits!

I wore my €5 top with a pair of Gap red skinny pants, my new COS bag, pointy-toed pumps and a black leather belt made in Sonoma.

The weather has been fickle lately. Spring season always is. One minute it's hot out, and the next it's drizzling. Then an hour later it's cold and windy. I wore this leather jacket I bought in Italy last spring and carried my Skully Persolé Chic Shade™ that protects me from both rain and sun.

And it's so stylish and unique...

that I get loads of compliments whenever I carry one. They are such great conversation starters!

I kept the jewelry simple with this outfit. No watch, no earrings, no necklace. Just a bracelet by Metal Pointus....

and a black leather wrap-around ring I bought in Paris at COS.

Have you ever thrift shopped, I mean "friperie- ed", on vacation before?

If so, did you find anything special?

Please tell me about it. I love a good friperie story.

Be sure to see what's happening at Patti's today for Visible Monday!

And don't forget to enter to win this stunning, functional, and super chic Persolé. Go here to find out how. The lucky winner will be announced this Wednesday morning!

Have a rich day!

XO,

Adrienne

How I Wear My: Everyday Handbag

2013-04-04T04:30:00.000-07:00

While we wait for it to finally feel like spring, Jill of Everything Just So and I thought it was a great time to focus this month’s “How I Wear My” on that workhorse of any wardrobe, the Everyday Bag.

Prior to my recent Paris trip, my everyday bag was my Mulberry Bayswater in a beautiful cognac that goes with everything I own. While it will still be a bag I carry frequently, I am currently favoring black after finding this leather tote in the Marais district of Paris last month.

COS, Collection of Style, is a chic fashion retailer in Europe. I found this bag sitting on a shelf on my way to the register to buy a few other items. I barely spent 10 seconds deciding whether or not I wanted to buy it. I just knew it was "it".

Soft leather with a solidly constructed design, this bag works for me. It has two long side-sections that I can easily stick my notebook and iPad mini into and the center zippered area safely holds my wallet, makeup bag, business cards and keys. It keeps me organized. But more than anything, I love the way it looks.

I carried it with a jacket I bought at Zara on Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This ivory blazer with black lapel can be worn casually, or dressed up.

I wore the jacket with a simple grey tee, strappy Nine West sandals, and coated black skinny jeans by Joe's Jeans.

I love the classic cut, style and colors of this blazer. I think it will look great with boyfriend jeans, too.

Be sure to head over to Jill's blog, Everything Just So, where you will find Jill and a couple dozen women showing us their everyday handbags. It's an everyday handbag extravaganza!

For May, we’ve been thinking about adding a touch of metal to everything—nails, shoes, bags, clothes! Did anyone else notice the metallic trend on the red carpet at this year’s Oscars?

Please join us for “How I Wear My: Metallics” on May 1. Send a picture to Jill or me by April 30. It’s your chance to shine!

HIWM is growing. This month is our biggest turn out yet! Starting in May, instead of trading off playing hostess as Jill and I have been doing, we will each feature participants. It will be a great way to focus further on all you lovely ladies and your outstanding looks!

XO,

Adrienne

P.S. Don't forget to enter to win this Persolé Chic Shade™!

Persolé Chic Shade™ Giveaway!

2013-03-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday, friends!

Last fall I mentioned in a post that I attended a preview party for my friends' new line of personal sun shades called Persolé. I fell in love with them that evening and couldn't leave the party without one.

From the moment I saw, touched and experienced the high quality and beautiful detailing of Persolé Chic Shades™, I knew I had to tell you all about them.

Aside from being gorgeous and fashion-forward, Persolé Chic Shades™ are functional. Made with material given 50+ UPF (Ultra-violet Protection Rating), the maximum rating available, these unique personal shades provide 99.7%+ blockage of all UVA and UVB rays. Along with being excellent protection from the sun's harmful rays, they also keep you dry when it's wet out.

You might be interested in how Persolé came about. Briefly, here is my friend, Lisa's story:

"While sitting under a hot black umbrella one day watching her son's baseball game, former interior designer and Persolé founder Lisa Walsh realized there are simply no chic, functional sun shade products available for the modern woman. A mother of two young children, Lisa was keenly aware of the health risk that overexposure to the suns ultraviolet rays can be to all ages. Constantly observing other women and children making every effort to block the damaging rays with their ineffective parasols and rain umbrellas, Lisa was inspired to create a genuine UV shade solution that would not only bring benefit to anyone who loves the sun, but also make a definitive fashion forward impression in any environment."

Since her brilliant idea, Lisa and her partner, Suzie Carter, have created a superior line of personal shades made in Italy with the finest details and fashionable styling.

Suzie and Lisa

A couple of months ago, Lisa and I had the opportunity to do a two-day photo shoot with Robert Janover at an Italian-style villa in Sonoma Valley. She brought several of her Chic Shades to the shoot. Here are several of our favorite shots that showcase her products, some taken by Robert and some by my husband, Bill.

Lounging by the pool. Lisa's holding a Pink/Ombre.
And I have a Black Ombre/Skully in my lap.

Lisa, holding her Sunflower Chic Shade, similar to this one.

Here is another floral Chic Shade in black with a hot pink flower on the lining.

Red and black get a little more interesting with the Cream/Zebra Persolé

Purple and Pink Ombre at the villa's pool.

I'm holding one of my favorites: Gold Skully.

Lisa's holding a Cream/Leopard shade
and I'm holding a gorgeous Peacock shade.

I spent lots of time with Persolé shades while at the villa and I can tell you they are durable, add to any outfit and do a fantastic job of keeping you cool and protected from the sun and the rain.

This is the Chic Shade I bought at the preview party last fall. It's Olive Ombré with an Hermés-style equestrian print on the inside.

I love the chain on the handle which allows my hands to be free when needed. And the bracelets you see in the picture below, made with Swarovski crystals, double as a rings to keep the shade closed when not in use. When the shade is extended to protect me from sun or rain, I simply wear the rings as bracelets.

Since spending time with the Black Ombre/Skully at the villa couple of months ago, I decided it was time to get one for myself. This silver version is modern and edgy. And I adore the bracelet/stowaway. I wear it even when I'm not carrying my Persolé!

Now for the giveaway part! Lisa and Suzie have generously agreed to giveaway a Pink Ombré Chic Shade to one lucky reader. It's a $300 value!

The deep pink color is gorgeous and brightens up any look.

I love the pink jeweled Lucite handle and the ombré.

The pastel Swarovski crystal bracelets/stowage rings are perfect for spring.

This is the interior of the shade. See the center? Lisa designed that herself. Where the handle meets the frame resembles a small flower. So clever!

How to Enter

There are up to eight possible entries per person:

~ Leave me a comment telling me you'd like to be entered to win.

~ Visit the Persolé website and pick out your favorite Chic Shade, then come back and tell me its name in a comment.

~ "Like" Persolé on Facebook.

~ Follow @PersoleShade on Twitter.

~ "Like" The Rich Life (on a budget) on Facebook.

~ Share this give away on your Facebook page.

~ Tweet the link to this giveaway to your followers and mention @PersoleShade.

~ Blog about this giveaway.

Please tell me in a comment or several comments which of the eight above you have completed so I can count your entries accurately. I don't want to leave any of your entries out!

The give away is open to ALL readers anywhere in the world. And the lucky winner will be selected Wednesday, April 10, 2013!

I am linking up with Patti and all her lovely participants for Visible Monday. Be sure to stop by and see who is wearing what today!

One last reminder: April’s “How I Wear My” post will be up on Thursday and it's all about everyday handbags.

Please send me or Jill of Everything Just So a picture of how you wear your handbag (not just a picture of the bag, please!) by April 3 to be featured!

XO,

Adrienne

A Day at Palace of Versailles

2013-03-30T21:26:00.002-07:00

Palace of Versailles is my favorite place on earth to visit. To me it's like a grown-up Disneyland. Its rich history, expertly manicured gardens, Baroque architecture and decor, grand statues and fountains make me feel like I am spending the day in a fairytale.

My first time visiting Versailles was in October, 2008. My husband took a photo of the French Pavilion that day that I fell in love with and it eventually became the header photo for my blog.

What an unusual experience it was to visit it again. I touched its walls, viewed the building from every angle and posed in front of it for photos. I think of the thousands upon thousands of times I have looked at that building. Touching it was almost surreal for me.

Across from the French Pavilion is this larger building, the Petit Trianon.

About a ten minute walk from the Petit Trianon, is the even larger Grand Trianon.

Throughout the estate, there are several small structures.

Then there are the gardens. Even in March, before the flowers have bloomed and many of the sculptures are still covered to protect them from rain and snow, the gardens of Versailles are breathtaking.

Although I prefer to spend most of my time at Versailles outdoors, visiting the main palace is a must.

I really enjoy seeing Marie Antoinette's boudoir and imagining what her life must've been like.

And you can't visit Versailles without walking through the Hall of Mirrors.

Another must, in my opinion, is seeing the Hameau de la Reine (Queen's Hamlet). Marie Antoinette had this small village created as her own retreat. It's darling and complete with cute farm animals.

The Grand Canal is a majestic body of water below the main palace.

We decided to rent a row boat even though it was chilly and windy that day.

I hope you've enjoyed the photos from my 'happiest place on earth'. Have you visited Palace of Versailles? If so, do you love it as much as I do?

April’s “How I Wear My” post, which is all about everyday handbags, is right around the corner! Please send me or Jill of Everything Just So a picture of how you wear your handbag (not just a picture of the bag, please!) by April 3.

Have a wonderful Easter if you're celebrating.

XO,

Adrienne

Paris in Pictures

2013-03-26T12:30:00.001-07:00

Hello, everyone!!

We are back from Paris and settled into our home, work and school routines. Thankfully, we managed to kick jet lag in the derrière in about four days, though I am still a little fuzzy at times.

What a whirlwind of a wonderful trip! We saw, ate, and experienced so many things. It was almost non-stop for seven days and we still didn't get to every activity on my 15 Things to do in Paris list. Nor did we do all the things you readers suggested (that I printed out, took to Paris with me, and am saving for a future trip, by the way). We would've needed a month in Paris to take on everything we wanted to.

While I still need to sort through all 2000+ photos from the trip, I have culled several of my favorites for today's post.

Tori and I, standing below the Tour Eiffel after visiting the summit.

Le Louvre

Ponts Des Arts bridge with all the love locks.

My husband took this shot with our Canon at Versailles.
I was so thrilled when I saw it downloaded later that day. I just love it!

Arc du Triomphe from the Eiffel Tower

Window shopping in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
On Sundays, the shops are all closed. Passed this darling shop on a Sunday.
Boo!

I bought Tori a copy of Le Petit Prince at this shop for her to read
to her kids someday.

Father and daughter in le Marais.

Toy boat rentals at Jardin du Luxembourg

View of Trocadéro and the Seine from the Eiffel Tower

Near the Seine

More of the Seine

Sweets!

One happy girl!

I hope you enjoyed my Paris photos so far.

I'll be returning with another Paris post this week.

If you're interested, there are more photos on my instagram feed @therichlifeonabudget.

One more thing! April’s “How I Wear My” post, which is all about everyday handbags, is fast approaching. Send me or Jill of Everything Just So a picture of how you wear your handbag (not just a picture of the bag, please!) by April 3.

XO,

Adrienne

Bonjour from Paris!

2013-03-17T15:03:00.001-07:00

It's day 5 of our 7-day trip to Paris. We're having a wonderful time doing lots of eating, walking and sightseeing.

Today's Visible Monday post will be short and without the proper links and badge (sorry, Patti!) as I'm on a blogger app for iPad that is not very user friendly.

More than anything, I wanted to let you know why I've been so absent this last week. I'll be back soon with lots of photos and tales of Paris for you.

Miss you all!

XO,

Adrienne

Distressed Denim, Hair Color and other things

2013-03-10T18:26:00.001-07:00

How was your weekend?

Mine was uneventful, but pleasant nonetheless. My husband and I cleaned our home, ran a few errands, went for a couple of walks and just sort of moseyed around the house.

My biggest accomplishment this weekend was writing a post about my favorite things to do in Paris, on a budget.

Thank you for all the great Paris suggestions in the comments! Please keep them coming.

I am compiling a list of new things to do, based on your suggestions. And because of you, I'm planning on having some fantastic new experiences while we're there!

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In Friday's post, I mentioned buying a $7.00 navy blue Sanctuary jacket on a visit to T.J. Maxx last week. I love the darn thing, but it's lined and quite heavy. I'd be miserable wearing it with our current 70+ degree weather. It'll just have to keep until fall unless we get some chilly weather before then.

But there's a second jacket I bought that day, a little tweed number with fringe around the edges and 3/4 sleeves, that I can wear right now.

It's by Cynthia Rowley, is light weight - though also lined - and it's a great fit. I love the off-white shade with small specks of bright colors running throughout the material.

For Sunday's errand running, I wanted to wear my new jacket casually. No sense in getting too gussied up to go to CVS and the cell phone store.

I wore some distressed boyfriend jeans from Gap. Some people think distressed denim is too young for someone my age, but small rips and holes in my jeans make me feel kind of edgy and, to tell you the truth, I'll take that feeling where I can get it these days!

I wore my jeans and jacket with a Gap mint oxford shirt - which is very soft and comfortable, but loves to take on wrinkles - and a pair of tawny suede pumps. I carried my everyday bag, a Mulberry satchel.

I brought along this hot pink clutch to see how it would look. I prefer the cognac bag, but the clutch works, too.

I can already tell that my little jacket will get a lot of wear this spring. It can be dressed up or down and is a versatile wardrobe piece that will look great with a variety of colors. Not bad for $30.00!

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After noticing all my ugly split ends last week, I made an appointment with my hairstylist for a cut and root touch up. She took some length off the ends and drew down my color down a bit from my roots, fading it into my ombre. I'm impressed with how the much shine hair color adds. The secret is ammonia-free hair color.

I was an obedient client and followed my hairstylist's directions to not wash my hair for three days. It was hard to resist lathering up, but worth it to keep my color lasting as long as possible.

Do you color your tresses? Are you using ammonia-free color?

Have an opinion on distressed denim? I'd love to hear it.

I am participating in Visible Monday again this week.

Be sure to stop by!

XO,

Adrienne

P.S. Miss Daisy is doing very well since her surgery. Thank you for your kind words last week. I still have not heard back from the vet about her tumor.

Meanwhile, she is back to business as usual, hanging out with her best doggy friend, Coco.

15 Fun Things to do in Paris on a Budget

2013-03-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

I'm off to Paris before month's end. This trip is a special graduation gift for my stepdaughter, Tori.

When she was in middle school, she chose to take French. Her dad and I wanted to encourage her to stick with learning a second language - I sure wish I would have - so we made a deal with her:

If she continued studying French throughout high school, we would take her to Paris her senior year.

Tori never forgot our agreement and took French every year and now, after five years, has quite a good grasp of the language.

She has been asking lots of questions about what we will do on our trip. Since this will be our fourth time to Paris in five years, my husband and I have accumulated a long list of our favorite things to see, eat, drink and do that don't leave us broke. We are thrilled to experience them with Tori.

This list is partly for her, but also to share with readers who may be heading to The City of Light in the future.

Here are the top 15 things we like to do in Paris that just happen to be on a budget at about 20 € or less:

1) Buy Mailles mustard crocks at their shop on the Rue de Madeline. Have them filled with your favorite mustard on tap, then bring the crocks back for refills each time you visit Paris!

2) Visit Versailles for the day. It's easy to get to by RER train - about an hour with no transfers. Bring your camera, some great walking shoes and enjoy the grounds. We liked seeing the interior of the buildings but spent most of our time outdoors. Do not miss Hameau de la Reine, the Queen's Hamlet. It's adorable. I would happily live there as a cow milker or mill worker if that were an option.

The original The Rich Life header photo taken in 2008 by my husband.

3) Take a ride on a Bateaux Mouche. Get a different perspective of landmarks and a better lay of the land on a river boat as well as some great photos. Rides are only about €10.

4) Stroll through an outdoor food market. You won't believe how beautiful and fresh the food is.

5) Go to the top of Arc de Triomphe. The staircase is winding and small but it's worth the climb to the top to see the excellent view of Paris.

6) Get a shwarma at L'As Du Fallafel, enjoy as much chocolate mousse as you like at Chez Janou (both located in the Marais), or have a Croque Monsieur outdoors at one of the cafes in the Tuileries.

7) Stop into a high end shop on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and browse. This flagship Louis Vuitton store is enormous. Visit the top floor to see the €30,000+ bags on display under glass. They make the €1800 bags on the first floor seem like a bargain...for a brief moment!

8) Stand under the Tour de Eiffel at night, look up and snap a photo.

9) Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery. It's not creepy - at least not to me - and rather very beautiful and historic.

10) Enjoy a banana and Nutella crepe for a snack or dessert. If you like a little something extra with your crepe, ask for a couple sloshes of Grand Marnier.

11) Wander through the magical Jardin du Luxembourg while snacking on freshly roasted chestnuts you bought from a street vendor.

12) Walk across bridges over the Seine. Did you know there are 37 of them? My favorite is this one, Pont Alexandre III.

13) Try some Parisian sweets. Although I love gazing at all the colorful macarons, they are too sweet for my palate. I prefer a tarte au citron...or two.

14) While it's a must to see the Musée du Louvre, Notre Dame, and Musée d'Orsay while you're in Paris, it's also fun to see smaller, less crowded sites. Spend some time at Musée Rodin, Carnavalet, Sainte-Chapelle, and Conciergerie, just to name a few. Buy a Paris Museum Pass before you see the sights to save lots of money on entrance fees.

Musee Rodin

15) Have a picnic on the banks of the Seine. We like to buy a bottle of French wine, a baguette, an apple, some salami and brie and sit on the wall at the end of the Île de la Cité. Be sure to pack a couple of plastic wine glasses, an opener and a Swiss Army knife in your luggage so you can be well prepared for your romantic picnic.

Have you been to Paris?

If so, what are your favorite things to do there.

We are looking to add to our list!

XO,

Adrienne

Positively Friday

2013-03-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

Positively Friday posts have been part of my blog for a couple of years now. They help me focus on all the good stuff about my week. While it was once a weekly feature, now I only write them when I feel compelled.

The best part of Positively Friday for me is hearing one or two or even ten things positive about your week.

I'd love to hear your good stuff. Here's mine:

~ Tuesday morning I noticed a red sore on my little dog's lip and quickly made an appointment with our veterinarian for later that day. He quickly diagnosed it as a tumor that he thought was malignant. He recommended surgery as soon as possible so we scheduled it for Thursday.

Initially, I surprised myself by handling the news calmly. But once I got home, I let my thoughts, emotions and assumptions get the better of me.

The next couple of days were awful. I'm an expert at winding myself up and thinking the worst, especially when it comes to health issues affecting much loved people and pets.

I wish I could be a person who assumes the best in these situations. Are you such a person? Or are you more like me?

The happy, positive news is that our vet got all of the tumor and didn't see any others during her surgery. He sent it off to pathology to be biopsied and we will get the results on Monday. I am hoping to hear the word "benign", of course. But even if it is malignant, I am pleased that he was able to get it all.

Can you see her lip sutures?
Such a brave girl she is. Me, not so much.

~ Earlier this week my stepdaughter, Tori, asked me if I would like to spend the afternoon with her. Of course I would!

We decided to meet for lunch at a Chinese restaurant. We ordered family style and shared a big plate of sautéed greens, vegetables with prawns and some hot and sour soup, my favorite. And of course, lots of Chinese tea.

~ After lunch, we went for manicures. Tori likes to get shellac nail polish because it stays on for two to three weeks without chipping.

I have never had a shellac manicure because I am afraid it will cause a lot of damage to my already very thin and peel-prone nails. But Tori convinced me to at least give it a try as she has never had any issues with hers. They can always grow out, right?

What I like about shellac polish it that is dries very quickly. I always mess up regular nail polish because I am so impatient. And they can take a real beating. I worked at the winery this week and cooked a few meals with nary a chip.

But what I don't like is all the time spent with my hands under the blue lights curing the polish. Won't that give me more sun spots?

In a couple of weeks, I will go back to have the shellac taken off and see what it did, if anything, to my nails.

Do you wear shellac polish? If so, how did your nails do with it?

Once our nails were shellacked, we were ready for some coffee. Tori treated me to a latte at a local bakery.

We had a great time together, as we always do.

~ Monday, after I visited with Anna, I stopped by T.J. Maxx. I haven't shopped there in ages. I found this darling navy blue jacket with silver sparkles running through the thread. It's made by Sanctuary and was on sale for $7.00! Currently, it's selling for 10 times that amount on Amazon!

The sleeves are nice and long on me, and the color is such a deep, rich navy. But with the weather growing warmer, I don't know that I'll be able to wear it anytime soon. Thankfully, the style is classic enough that I will wear it later this year, once fall is upon us again.

Have you found any great deals lately?

~ I have a new post up on Skimbaco Lifestyle - a little more about personal style, favorite trends, and "Sonoma Chic". I hope you'll take a moment to have a read!

I will be back this weekend with a post

about my favorite things to do in Paris.

Have a great Friday!

XO,

Adrienne

How I Wear My: Green

2013-03-05T04:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 17th installment of "How I Wear My"!

While winter is still very much around for a lot of the country, it will be spring (and Easter!) by the end of the month so it’s a perfect time to celebrate the upcoming season of green by showing “How I Wear My: Green.”

Jill and I are thrilled to feature 24 women and 29 outfits this month! And it's an international group for March with participants from Hungary, Thailand, France, Canada, the United Kingdom, Spain, Singapore, the United States and Italy.

Enjoy these gorgeous green looks ranging from emerald to chartreuse, army to hunter, kelly to lime, and sea green to mint.

Jill of Everything Just So wears an army green jacket by Rachel Zoe that she bought on eBay. She tells us more about it on her blog today so be sure to stop by.

Suzanne of Suzanne Carillo Style Files looks ready for spring in an Anthropologie dress she bought on sale and a floral cardigan. I love the added touch of the turquoise belt and necklace.

Amy of Denim and Dots is transitioning beautifully into spring with an Old Navy mint blouse, faux fur vest, jeans and suede boots.

Sheree from It's Not That Deep shows us two green skirt looks. The pencil skirt in a laurel shade looks fantastic with grey and black. And her formal emerald green skirt is given a chic, edgy vibe with a distressed graphic tee.

Gracey from Fashion for Giants styles her Lucky brand emerald green corduroys with leopard and polka dots. So cute and fun!

Kelly from Grunge Queen, who lives in France, found this Thierry Mugler jacket in hunter green at a secondhand shop for just 4 euros! I love how she allows the deep green to stand out by wearing a simple black skirt and turtleneck.

Madison of Fashion Tales pairs a chartreuse sweater with appliqués with a flowing cobalt blue skirt for a feminine, stylish and current look.

Jeannie of Gracefully 50 does casual chic right in green jeans and polka dots. I adore the added pop of color with the heeled sandals.

Bella Q from The Citizen Rosebud wears green with a twist of modern moxie and vintage charm. The dress is from Beats And Bohos. It's a glorious emerald lightweight wool handmade from the 1950s. The shoes, vegan leather heels with gold glitter cap toe, were a score from Modcloth. Vintage wonderfulness!

Silk Path Diary shows us two green looks. On the left is a mod-style dress from Cos and on the right, an army green silk blouse from J. Crew. Both looks are so elegant and timeless.

Sacramento from Mis Papelicos, who never fails to impress with her fabulous style, wears an olive green ruffled skirt with a cobalt, turquoise and sea green floral print blouse. So feminine and colorful!

Heather of Stylemindchic wore this flattering Michael Kors one shoulder number in a bright lime color to a family wedding. The word that comes to mind when I see Heather in this photo is 'California'!

Hang from POUM! La Mode shows us how resourceful she is by switching out the leather strap on her vintage handbag, wearing the strap as a bracelet, then replacing it with a dog chain. Brilliant!

Dear reader, Barbara, who lives in Rome, wears the scarf she won in my WomensClothingToday.com give away. It looks as though the scarf was made for that chartreuse blazer! And I love the way Barbara tied her scarf. I must try that myself.

Becky from Pink Cheetah Vintage wears a vintage kelly green dress that looks like it was made for her figure! I love the scoop neckline and the elegant statement necklace.

Pam of Over 50 Feeling 40 is embracing emerald green with these Talbot jeans. The vibrant pop of orange in the handbag and the silver loafers make her look ready for spring!

Veshshoevius of The Taxonomy of My Wardrobe goes all out green with an olive green Max Mara cropped cardigan, green Hobbs wool turtleneck, and jade pendant. The layers of green in similar yet still different shades add such interest to her outfit.

Maddy from Shop with Pippa wears a thrifted classic knit sweater in hunter green with gorgeous black and cognac boots and jeans. Those colors work so well together!

Catherine of Not Dressed as Lamb proves that lime green and olive green look great together especially with the addition of the patterned scarf, rust booties and yellow hat.

Erika, a reader and student, wears an Old Navy with a light blue bubble necklace. She wore this outfit to class. I love that she dresses so stylishly for school!

Sylvia of 40 Plus Style! wears a vibrantly green dress by Sabrina Goh two ways. Each look shows off Sylvia's fantastic figure in a modern and flattering way.

Gee Gee from Sky Over 40 brightens up her forest green v-neck sweater with bright red trousers. I love her black oxford shoes with the black belt.

LR of Magnificent or Egregious wears a gorgeous green scarf to not only look stylish but to keep warm during Canadian winters. Red heads always look fantastic in a jewel-toned green!

I wore my green look to lunch with a friend last week. The green jeans are from Gap (last spring), the faux leather biker vest is from Goodwill and the sweater is also from Gap. I wore a green glass ring and green patent leather ballet flats, both purchased in Italy last May.

Thank you, thank you to each and every participant in How I Wear My: Green. Jill and I appreciate you allowing us to showcase your stylish, unique and beautiful looks.

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For April, Jill and I would love to see your everyday handbag, the workhorse of your wardrobe! Whether it’s designer or no-name, vintage or new, low-key or flashy, send a picture to me or Jill by April 3 for “How I Wear My: Everyday Handbag.”

Do you wear yours over your shoulder, across your body, tucked under your arm or dangling from your wrist? No matter how you hold your handbag, we want to see you carrying it so be sure to include your stylish self in your photo.

XO,

Adrienne