Infusing grandeur into otherwise drab Monday mornings with five things/ideas/events for the week:

I.  With my birthday weeks away, I’m toying with the idea of indulgences.  Though I’m not one to spend the entire week celebrating my existence (which, let’s face it, has far more to do with a frisky New Year’s Eve party and nine-months of my mother’s hard work than anything I contributed) I would like to commemorate the occasion with a girlish frock.  And what could be more girlish than tulle?  Cue budding atelier blissTULLE.  Moments after discovering this adorable shop, I knew that the black millefeuille mini was the perfect thing to wear to birthday cocktails.

II.  Speaking of celebrations, I’m obsessed with papery company theBannerie.  They make custom handmade banners for any occasion you can conjure.  For example, the founder crafted this “Wild One” banner for her daughter because her hair is so unruly.  This made me smile because, as anyone who has ever seen me pre-flat-iron will attest, my naturally curly hair is more electrocuted Barbie than supermodel sleek…  I can’t wait for excuses to order more of these charming glittered garlands.

III.  Is there anything better than Nutella? A week ago, I would have said absolutely not.  But then I tried homemade Nutella, and my palate is forever changed.  The recipe is incredibly simple: melt 100 grams of dark chocolate with 100 grams of butter in the microwave (whisking every 20 seconds until combined), mix in a tablespoon of shaved hazelnuts, two tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, a teaspoon each of dark rum and vanilla, and a pinch of salt.  Pour in short canning jars and cool in the fridge for an hour.  These delicious pots of chocolate are perfect for holiday gifts!

IV.  Indian Summers through the month of October in San Francisco require the perfect balance between light healthy fare and autumnal comfort food.  My solution is the Greek Quesadilla - melted mozzeralla and feta, topped with spinach, olives, onions, capers, oregano, and sundried tomatoes. For extra Mediterranean moxie, serve with a side of homemade tzatziki.  

V.  The entire world is abuzz about the J. Law v. iCloud mishap, which will surely make the final Film Night in the Park showing of American Hustle on the 27th one of the best attended of the season.  Arrive early to Dolores Park for the free screening equipped with a soft blanket and picnic supper from legendary nearby spot Bi-Rite Market.

Have a wonderful week!  xx tt