The Domestic Nest Blog

Our nesting goal for August was to fly the coop! We set out to relax and find inspiration in nature, and boy, did we ever. We spent a good while at the Ojai Retreat. It’s quiet bunch of casitas nestled in the Ojai Valley. Some say the word Ojai means ‘bird’s nest,’ while others believe Ojai means ‘Valley of the Moon.’ Either way, the name fits. Nature quietly rules in Ojai and it really feels like you’re in a lush nest, surrounded by mountains on any side. We spent our first anniversary here and have since returned when in need of some major relaxation or some space to reflect and meditate. Drinking fine wine in Chinet set the mood each evening as the sun set and we took in the famous pink moment.

Take the jump to see photos of our Ojai escape.

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We’ve really been enjoying our time in paradise! This is a photo of our surprise fish pedicure. Matty knew the way to a secret swimming hole. When we got there, we found the most pristine pool and couldn’t help but plunge in head first. The fish kept surrounding our feet and ankles and nibbling until we said “uncle!” due to our ticklishness.

More to come on our relaxing retreat!

For anyone remotely interested in design, the Cooper-Hewitt Why Design Now? exhibition is the perfect place in New York City to learn about the newest and best in the American design realm. Themes include energy, mobility, community, materials, prosperity, health, communication and simplicity. You’ll leave wanting more, so buy the book or visit online. If you’re looking for a small dose of design and just want to enjoy the Cooper-Hewitt’s lush terrace, drop by on Fridays for cocktails between 6 and 9.

Take the jump for more photos of the Cooper-Hewitt.

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This is where you board a FREE ferry to Governor’s Island from Manhattan. Governor’s Island is rich in military history and was an active Coast Guard base until 1995. In 2002, the island was sold for $1.00 by the U.S.A. to the people of New York. The island is now open to the public between June and October. It’s a popular venue for private and public events of all sizes, but is best known for being a readily accessible, FREE escape from the bustle of Manhattan. It provides 172 acres full of parks, beautiful views, historic buildings, and a 2-mile promenade where you can take or rent a bike. This is an oasis not to be missed if you find yourself wanting to get away from the city, even if it’s just for an hour.

Take the jump for more photos.

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I joined my parents for a walk through Williamsburg, home of the College of William & Mary, unrivaled antiquing, and real people who still dress in colonial garb and play the fife in the street. It was so lovely and serene. I forgot my camera, but Dad was nice enough to let me borrow his to capture all the eye candy.

Wanna take a walk back in time?

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We had guests of honor staying with us over the weekend. My parents came all the way from Virginia!

It gave us an excuse to do some things we’ve never done before in San Diego. We crossed the bridge and entered another era on Coronado Island. There’s a certain magic about that place. It just has the air of old time fun. And something about being with Matty feels kinda timeless. I don’t know, maybe it’s the just his vintage hats.

Anyhow, Coronado may be the best place we’ve found here in San Diego to just kick back and relax. No matter the season, I’m pretty sure it’s always summer break on Coronado Island.

We had diner-style eats at Clayton’s Coffee Shop and then just mosied. I sure wish we’d brought the bikes to cruise around and slowly take in the beautiful, diverse neighborhoods. No two homes looked exactly alike and the old craftsman style held strong, assuring us at every turn that we were in the Golden State.

And then there was ‘The Del’. Oh me, oh my.

This place just whisked us back through decades of rich, luxurious history.

The Hotel Del Coronado is well worth the trip over the bridge.

The whole day had me humming “Swing it like they used to do…” by Lee Coulter. Go ahead, click. You’ll love it.

What a splendid day. Let’s do it again.

My husband took me to paradise this weekend. We visited a funky hotel/spa just outside of downtown Palm Springs.

It was so ultra-cool, that I was the only guest taking pictures of the eclectic eye candy that adorned every nook in this place. Pardon the sub-par photos, I was trying to be discrete and not look so much like a kid in an amusement park. The decor was designed by one of my favorite muses, Jonathan Adler. I prayed he’d be there, maybe reworking the bar or lobby, or better yet, relaxing at the spa. I didn’t see him. Which is probably for the better. I may have been speechless, or inappropriately asked him to sign a body part with a sharpie. No matter what, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been prepared for the encounter.

What’s so lovable about Jonathan Adler? The authenticity and reckless abandon he pours into his work. You can tell he does what he loves. And that’s contagious in any artist’s work. His combinations of texture, color, humor & funk are immediately recognizable & make you feel at home, intrigued, & giddy all at once.

Serious mid-century buffs will love to linger in the mood of this place. It begs you to sit back & relax with a vintage-inspired beverage. But the real reason to frequent The Parker is the spa.

The spa is called PSYC (Palm Springs Yacht Club). The moment you enter, the smell of luxury intoxicates you & requires you to immediately let go of all anxiety. The building itself is stunning and the staff will make you feel at ease. If you’re going to be anywhere near Palm Springs, hightail it over to The Parker to be cleansed of all melancholy and worry. You’ll check out a happier person.