There’s a moment, somewhere in late July or early August, when tomatoes hit their stride. Not the firm, flavorless kind you find in January—but the real ones. Heavy, sun-warmed, impossibly red. A tomato that tastes like summer itself.

This is the height and the hint of the end. That bittersweet overlap where the season is at its fullest, yet you can feel it beginning to slip.

I eat them like fruit, sliced thick with just salt, pepper, and a glug of olive oil. Sometimes with basil and fresh mozzarella, sometimes just as they are. Still warm from the garden. Still humming with sunshine.

Tomatoes ask us to savor the now and plan for later. They are abundance and impermanence. A reminder that the best things are often the most fleeting.

Tomato pie is a Plum kitchen classic —easy enough for a weeknight, special enough to bring to a friend’s table. It’s cozy, unfussy, and wildly flavorful. Layers of sun-kissed tomatoes melt into fresh herbs, green onions, and sharp cheddar, all tucked into a flaky crust and blanketed in a creamy topping that turns golden and toasty in the oven.

It’s a pie that tastes like summer giving you a hug goodbye—and like all the best things, it gets even better the next day.

There’s one fabric I return to, season after season, year after year: linen.

Lightweight, breathable, and somehow both humble and luxurious, linen has quietly become the backbone of my wardrobe—and my boutique. But it’s more than just a favorite fabric to wear; it’s my favorite fabric to sew with, too.

Linen is one of the oldest known textiles in the world—woven from the flax plant, cultivated for thousands of years across Europe and the Middle East. Ancient Egyptians wrapped mummies in linen. 1940s homemakers dried dishes with it. And today, it still holds its place as a symbol of timeless, practical elegance.

It’s made from the strong inner fibers of the flax stalk—naturally sustainable and surprisingly durable. In fact, linen is stronger than cotton, and garments made from high-quality flax can last for decades.

When it’s new, linen has a crisp, slightly nubby texture—cool against the skin and perfect on a hot summer day. But with every wear and every wash, it softens into something even better: buttery, broken-in, and uniquely yours.

I love the sound of it when I shake out a freshly laundered piece. I love how it catches the breeze on a clothesline. I love that it softens without ever losing its structure.

Choosing the right gift for a coworker can be a challenging task, especially if you want to maintain professionalism while also showing thoughtfulness and consideration. Here are 7 tips to help you pick out the perfect gift:

1. Understand Their Interests

• Observation is Key: Pay attention to their interests or hobbies. If they often talk about a particular sport, book genre, or a TV series, these can be great starting points.
• Ask Around: If you're not sure, consider asking other colleagues who might know them better.

2. Consider the Office Culture

• Professional Boundaries: Keep the office culture in mind. What is acceptable in one workplace might not be in another.
• Avoid Personal Gifts: It's usually best to avoid overly personal items like clothing or perfume.

3. Opt for Utility

• Functional Gifts: Items that can be used at work, like a quality notebook, a plant for their desk, or a stylish pen, are often appreciated.
• Tech Gadgets: Depending on your budget, tech accessories that can be used in the office can also be a great choice.

4. Personalize When Possible

• Add a Personal Touch: Even a simple card with a heartfelt message can make a generic gift feel more special.
• Customized Gifts: If possible, consider personalized items, such as a mug with their name or a custom calendar.