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Midsummer 2018

Midsummer already, and the heat is here with a vengeance.  I now feel like being lazy, sitting in the sun (I know, I know...but the vitamin D!!!), and reading book after book after book.  I did manage to spend a little time by the pool on July 4th, and also to read my brilliant and talented friend Evgenia Citkowitz's novel, The Shades. What I haven't quite accomplished is the lazy part.  Not my nature, I'm afraid.  We just returned from a quick trip to London and Amsterdam, and as ever I am inspired by all of the incredible art, nature, and certainly the food that we experienced, and am busy bringing those inspirations to life.  I am always happiest when the four of us are on a trip, away from the quotidian distractions of life.  This trip was no exception, and it was absolute heaven to all be together.  From the epic Picasso exhibition at the Tate Modern in London, to the Van Gogh and Japan in Amsterdam, with meals at The River Cafe, and De Kas amongst others, and plenty of laughs, my heart and mind are both full.  

As much as I love to travel, I am always thrilled to come home. It feels good to be back in the store, with all of the new summer pieces. I love colorful earrings with a bit of movement, as well as pearls in all forms. These are two pair of several new earrings that have just arrived, and are true to my love of all things floral.  

This weather makes me feel like staying in my swiss cotton slips all day.  It's just difficult to want to wear anything but, on days when it's hovering around 90 degrees on the westside.  This beautifully crisp set of cotton pieces are new, and perfect for these brutally hot days.  The mid length version is what I love to wear over my swimsuit, or even over a slip as a dress.  I wore mine last summer in Mallorca, and the light weight of the cotton was a dream. In either plaid with red lace or stripes with greige lace, they are both charming for the beach or poolside, and not just for sleeping.

 

We had a little sample sale last year, and it went so well, that we have decided to do it again.  This time, the discounts range from 65-85% on selected pieces of lingerie in silk, cotton, and even a few of the Liberty prints.  The sale begins on Tuesday, July 10th, both in store and online.  Shop early for the best selection. We will also have a small selection of jewelry with special pricing.  We only do this once a year, so if you've had your eye on something, don't miss out! 

It's a bit hot for cooking, so though this summer dessert does involve roasting stone fruit in the oven, it is served with cooling greek yogurt for a refreshing end to a summer meal.  I love making it with apricots, but it can also be made with peaches, plums, nectarines, cherries, figs, or a combination of all.   Simply halve and pit the fruit, and place cut side up in a roasting pan that has been generously buttered.  I then top the fruit with little bits of cut up butter and drizzle with honey and sprigs of fresh thyme.  Roast in the oven at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or so, until the fruit is soft and beginning to look caramelized at the edges.  Serve with a dollop of full fat plain greek yogurt, a sprinkling of chopped walnuts, and a spoonful of the juices from the roasting pan. Of course almonds, pecans, or pistachios would also be delicious, if you prefer. Sometimes I use citrus slices, and top with shredded coconut and shaved dark chocolate instead of yogurt and nuts.  Really, it can be anything you'd like.

We have deliciously cool A/C at the boutique, and we make a delightfully refreshing iced tea with elderflower, so swing by if you can.  We look forward to seeing you, and catching up.  Whether you've completed your summer travels, or are about to embark on an adventure, enjoy these sweet midsummer days... 

 

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