If I could use one word to describe Janene Besch I’d say that Janene is simply lovely. Ok, that’s two! 

I met Janene through her sister-in-law and my friend Stephanie Besch. When Janene explained she practiced the Lindamood-Bell® approach to helping children find meaning in words on a page, I was ecstatic. Since then, almost ten years later, Janene and the team have been working with our son, William who is determined to be an author. 

Janene and I not only connected over her impressive work but also that she hails from the great state of California. While she’s a “Northern Cal” girl, she eventually became a So. Cal girl at the University of California at San Diego – a little slice of Heaven above the Pacific. Second, she is a fitness enthusiast and believes exercise plays a large role in helping kids learn. Last, I trust her and her team. 

The work Janene and the team practice warms my heart. To help a child learn to read and write - with clarity and ease - is a gift that some of us take for granted. At OWLS Therapy, they take nothing for granted. 

Now…meet Janene!

Photography by Renée C. Gage Photography.

Janene is styled by The Shoe Hive.

ABOUT YOU

Neighborhood (doesn’t have to be Alexandria): Lake Barcroft

What is your hometown? A small town outside of Lake Tahoe, California. I also claim San Diego since I went to undergrad and grad school there.

What would surprise people about you? I love music from the 60s. It’s my number one preset in my car!

Favorite book or movie: I couldn’t put down The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.

Guilty Pleasure: Most shows on Bravo and HGTV. 

Latest binge-watch: Below Deck (Bravo strikes again!)

Bucket list travel destination: Egypt to see the pyramids! I have wanted to go since 6th grade!

STYLE

Define your style in three words or less: California casual

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Any of my numerous t-shirt dresses.

Favorite trend: I am digging the acid/neon green that I am seeing…but in small doses like a fun clutch or killer pair of heels! 

Beauty product you can’t live without: Neem Oil Soap from Marble Hill. I order 12 bars at a time since it comes from Northern Ireland!

Boots, sneakers, or sandals? Sandals. I’m a California girl!

WELLNESS

Go-to way to de-stress: A walk in the neighborhood. We also just got a puppy and it is physically impossible to be stressed when looking at his sweet face!

Most fun way to stay active: Paddleboarding on our lake.

Wellness goal: I still want to run a full marathon but I don’t know if my back or knees can handle it! 

Want to try: I would love to try jet surfing! I grew up surfing and wakeboarding so I feel this would be right up my alley.

Proudest wellness achievement: All of my half marathons - the good, the bad, and the ugly!

HOME

Favorite room in your home: Our front yard…we sit on a hill and have a great view. We have a couple of Adirondack chairs out there and it is a nice way to finish the day in the spring and summer.

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Our house is a Cape Cod so I am after pieces that fit that design aesthetic.

Last item bought for your home: A couch for my home office.

Favorite way to entertain: I love a good themed party at our house with friends and family!

Clutter-free or well-lived in? A little bit of both. Life happens but too much and I have to straighten up so I can focus!

Next planned purchase: A hot tub!

ALEXANDRIA

What do you love about Alexandria Stylebook? I’m awful at keeping up with trends or upcoming events, so one business that tells me everything…sign me up!

Favorite spot in Alexandria: Anywhere along the water! I use to walk my late pup there every weekend and I am excited to continue that same tradition with our new pup. Grab a cup of coffee from Misha’s and let’s stroll!

Your go-to shop: Bishop Boutique or The Hive

Best food spot: An Aperol spritz and a lobster roll from Vola’s while sitting next to the water is happiness!

Favorite local organization: Animal Welfare League of Alexandria 

Annual Alexandria event you most look forward to: Paws in the Park