August always feels like a month of juggling between soaking up the last long days of summer and getting ready for what’s next. From favorite finds and everyday essentials to little things that brought extra inspiration to my routine, this month's Founder Fixations helped me savor the season while welcoming what’s to come.
What I Ate: Tangy Lemon Tart by Mokonuts
While this Tangy Lemon Tart came out beautiful and tasted delicious, it was super “chefy” and labor intensive. It comes from a cookbook by the husband and wife duo behind the chic Paris café, Mokonuts, in the 11th arrondissement. Beginners, beware! I’ve been an experienced baker for decades, and even I was intimidated. The hard work paid off, though. The crust was a huge highlight, and the easiest part of the whole process. I’ll certainly be repurposing the crust for other recipes in the future (stay tuned for that).
What I Did: Started Knitting a Baby Blanket for My Nephew & His Wife
My nephew and his wife are welcoming a baby in the fall, so I began knitting them a yummy light gray cashmere baby blanket. It’s still a work in progress, but you can see the progress I’ve made so far. Knitting a gift for the people I love is one of my all time favorite gestures (I’ve made gloves, beanies, blankets, and more). It’s just such a special gift that requires planning ahead on top of hours of time and commitment — there’s truly love in every stitch.
What I Listened To: Bossa Nova Covers 2026
As much as I love mainstream music, I need to switch it up depending on my mood. Lately I’ve been loving this playlist of pop hits with a bossa nova twist. I also love putting on meditative jazz to create a more relaxed and focused vibe.
What I Read: Holiday Magazine #397
Holiday is a renowned travel and culture magazine with bi-annual issues of captivating photography and literary essays by a list of legendary contributors like Joan Didion and Ernest Hemingway. This month I read their latest Cartagena de Indias, Colombia issue. The cover alone took my breath away and the stories pulled me in — including one about a mysterious mermaid ring.
Where I Shopped: Huset
If you’ve been following along for some time, you know about my passion for Swedish gummy candy. This gem on Abbott Kinney is a one-stop shop for all things Scandinavian, from sweet treats and snacks to clothing and home accessories. Might I add that it’s a really cool spot for some highly curated gifts.
What I Watched: Original Seasons of "Barefoot Contessa"
I’m a lifelong Ina Garten fangirl, and something about the start of summer winding down had me yearning to watch my ultimate comfort show, "Barefoot Contessa." But not just any episodes, I needed the original 10 seasons. Let me tell you, not an easy find. I searched everywhere. Every app, every website, every social platform. Ultimately, I discovered their only home: Discovery Plus. It was nearly the only streaming service I didn’t have a subscription for, but that quickly changed. Bingeing them at that point was not a want but a need. She’s a legend!
What I Wore: Vintage or Vintage-Inspired Graphic Tees
Over the years, I’ve worked to refine my wardrobe so each piece is a timeless staple that never goes out of style. One thing I’ll never get sick of? My vintage-inspired graphic tees. They’re endlessly cool, and I love that they can be dressed up or down and restyled seasonally. I wear them with jeans, leather pants, a blazer, flat sandals, a bootie, you name it. They’re a must!
Come back to The Smish on the last Sunday of every month for the latest in our new Founder Fixations series.
