Here we are just past the high point of summer - that moment where I seem to always pause, exhale, and contemplate how exactly I'd like to spend the rest of it. To be honest, I just want it all to slow down. This year my aspiration for the rest of summer is to lay low and try to rest and restore. The early part of the summer was quite busy on all fronts, and frankly, I'm shocked that we find ourselves this far into August already. This particular summer seems to have just flown by at what feels like warp speed. Whatever you're doing and wherever you're doing it, I truly hope that it is utterly lovely.  

We had the distinct pleasure of traveling to London at the end of June for both work and a bit (actually a LOT) of fun. I fell in love with all of the trees and had a fabulous time with friends who are more family than not, which are the best kind of all. I then dashed off to the big Island of Hawaii for a personal appearance in the Seaside Luxe boutique at the Four Seasons Hualalai, where the rocky volcanic shores are quite stunning as are the sunsets every evening, which alone are a powerful reason to visit. 

Alas, home is not simply just where the heart is. Here we are, back and enjoying the lovely summer evenings and the steadfast company of our dear dear friends. Isn't that exactly what summer should be full to overflowing with? That, and the creation of beautiful pieces are what have been such a source of joy for me this summer. We had the honor of working on a lovely custom piece to celebrate a significant birthday, using family stones to create a future heirloom ring. 

I also was inspired to create a powerful tribute to big cat energy with a double puma ring. I recently made a bracelet version of this for a surprise anniversary gift, and couldn't get it out of my head. The ring is incredibly powerful and feels like wearable sculpture more than anything else. The protective nature of the puma, and its immeasurably keen powers of observation and stillness are quite something to behold. These amazing creatures are incredibly seductive with their essence of grace and power, relying on their instincts and the sharpness of their senses for survival. It certainly isn't a ring to wear lightly, but one that I think emanates the spirit and energy of the puma in such an interesting way. They are solitary creatures, but I chose to nestle two together in an embrace.  

Another new piece I find incredibly special is our St. Michael pendant.  We've been working on a trio of Archangel pendants, and started with this one. I'm particularly drawn to them, as they are recognized in so many religions, and have a such a strong connection to feelings of protection.

Here is peek at a fitting we did for a new little skirt suit idea I wanted to explore.  I couldn't be happier with the results. The pieces are crafted from the most gorgeous Italian men's shirting cotton, with the beautiful details we are known for.  I wanted to have something crisp and cool to wear in the summer that felt a bit more pulled together than a sundress. The skirt couldn't be easier...it has a drawstring waist and comes in one size. It's perfect for pulling on over a swimsuit or for wearing with a little camisole or perfect white t-shirt, or ultimately to wear with the little jackets we are making to coordinate for a more tailored look. We sold out of the first batch immediately, and are expecting the second batch in a mix of colors and prints next week, so come visit or call if you'd like us to set one aside for you.  

Our Lilia sundress is my tried-and-true summer wardrobe mainstay. Whether in a Liberty of London floral or in an Italian men's cotton shirting fabric, it packs like a dream, looking just as lovely on the streets of London as it does on the Hawaiian shores. I hear from our clients that it has become their summer favorite as well.  One just packed three for her trip to Europe, and I know she will wear them endlessly not just while traveling, but then again for the rest of our LA summer, which now seems to extend well into October.

Since it's summer and the fruit from the farmer's market has been so delicious, I've been serving platters of stone fruit, watermelon with lime, or bowls of cherries and berries for dessert lately. It's nice to also have a little chocolate something to accompany it, so my daughter and I started making these rustic and delicious chocolate treats. It's also great to not turn on the oven in the heat of the summer!

Basically we just melt whatever high quality 72% chocolate bars we have in the pantry in the top of a double boiler, pour onto a parchment lined baking tray, and sprinkle whatever combinations of things that strike us as an ingredient that can only be improved upon by adding chocolate.  Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least an hour or so.  When you're ready to serve, break the chocolate into shards and pass them around. 

Some combinations to try:

Freeze-dried raspberries

Dried Turkish figs with chopped Marcona almonds

Pistachios with chopped dried papaya

Candied ginger

Sesame seed and matcha powder

Shredded coconut with curry powder

Really, the possibilities are endless to be creative and come up with something utterly delicious. Let me know if you make an especially winning combination. I'd love to hear about it.

Enjoy,