This week, I’ve been trying to stay organized. While casually looking at homes in Ojai (just for fun), I stumbled across a gem. The homeowner was so organized—it totally inspired me to re-evaluate my own little rental.
Having systems in place and knowing where everything goes is such a game-changer. I went through my closets and arranged my pants, tops/blouses, skirts, dresses, and suits by color—from dark to light, left to right (a little trick I picked up folding Polo shirts back in my Garfinkel’s days!). It honestly makes getting dressed so much easier.
If you find yourself with a little downtime, try it. You’ll feel so accomplished afterward. 👉 I bought these great hangers on Amazon that help everything hang the same way.
Here’s the link – highly recommend!
What I’m Doing in My Garden
Sadly, this is the first year I don’t have a beautiful garden. My rental has a few nice plants, but I just haven’t had the energy to add more.
Instead, I’ve been heading up to my property—getting the trees trimmed and trying to restore water access. The land is actually for sale, so I want it looking its best. That’s about the extent of my garden work this month.
But here’s a list of what I’d normally be doing—and plan to again next year:
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Watering: Deeply in the morning to reduce evaporation. Mulch helps retain moisture.
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Weeding: Remove regularly so they don’t compete for water.
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Planting: Sow warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and squash. Start fall crops (like broccoli and kale) indoors.
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Pruning: Trim spent flowers from perennials to encourage more blooms. Lightly prune citrus trees.
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Pest Control: Watch for aphids and spider mites; use organic controls.
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Lawn Care: Mow grass high to help it retain moisture and reduce heat stress.
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Harvesting: Pick ripe fruits and veggies regularly to encourage more production.
What I’m Watching & Reading
I’m so binging Sullivan’s Crossing on Netflix. It’s about a doctor accused of malpractice who returns to her dad’s home in Nova Scotia (yes, I had to check where that was—tip of eastern Canada!). It's a rom-com vibe and really picks up in Season 2. Bonus: she’s a redhead!
What’s In My Cart
Okay, this might not seem very exciting, but this book could be a game-changer—and your best summer read. 📚 Check it out here.
Products I Love
We’re revamping our website, and the new version is launching in August—just in time to start thinking about the holidays (honestly, I think holiday year-round).
If you haven’t visited us lately, we’d love your support during this transitional time as the shop gets back up and running.
One brand I’m super excited about?
👉 Johanna Howard Throws
These come in a range of colors and are the perfect throw for chilly evenings. They're soft, beautiful, and human-approved.
Shop the Dip Dyed Throw
Friday Gift Idea
So many of my friends are having birthdays this month—and with July in full swing, lots of them are at second homes across this beautiful country. I’ve been sending a care/birthday gift bundle of my signature scents.
It’s such an easy gift to order—and it brings a familiar and comforting fragrance into any space, even rentals.
🎁 Shop the Signature Scent Bundle
Not sure what to send? Or need a last-minute gift for your bestie, mom, or sister?
🎉 Send a Virtual Elizabeth Lamont Gift Card — it’s a slam dunk every time!
Thank You
Thanks for reading—I truly appreciate all your support. Even though many of us are scattered this summer, I hope you’re all doing well.
Make time every day to breathe and repair.
Sending love,
Elizabeth
