Dahlia’s displayed in a favorite porcelain vase.

August is always one of those months that I have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy the day. For me that means lounging in our back patio in the late afternoon hours, getting up early for a morning walk, entertaining outside and not making too many plans. But it’s not always that easy when there’s so much going on. This week is fiesta in Santa Barbara (seen here and here) and as much as I love the festivities, I’ve found myself avoiding the crowds this year and opting for Mexican take-out and watching the Olympics. Here are some snippets from my week.

A gift from my friends at Joie, über chic smoking slippers. Find them here.

I’ve been switching out my chunky chains for this dainty mini cross bracelet by Jennifer Fisher Jewelry.

 A stylish new brass bottle opener found on Quitokeeto here.

My summer necessity, giant striped blankets for the beach and picnics.