Stewart Butterfield, cofounder and CEO of Slack, has had some luck with that quintessential Silicon Valley gremlin, the pivot.

Way back in the dotcom wasteland of 2003, he and his then wife, Caterina Fake, were struggling to launch Game Neverending, in which multiple players would make things and then barter them with other players.

One night, in a fever dream after a bout with the flu, Butterfield decided to make a photo-sharing site instead. You may have heard of it: It’s called Flickr. Instead of players sharing imagined digital goods, users of Flickr would exchange photos and comments with the intent of building a community. Yahoo! acquired Flickr’s parent company, Ludicorp, in 2005, for an estimated $30 million. Butterfield and Fake left the company, and each other, in 2008.

(Photo by Kris Krug) 

Butterfield and some of his Ludicorp team set out once again to design a game based on Game Neverending. Rather prophetically named, Glitch failed too, but the founder once again stumbled upon wild success. In the process of building Glitch, his team had built an internal communications tool that allowed members to exchange messages and files without the mess of emails, texts, and voicemails that live on various platforms. In another pivot, that tool became the product the team would release. You may have heard of that too: It’s called Slack.

The darling of Silicon Valley, Slack was a near-instant unicorn, growing rapidly to a valuation of $2.8 billion, with investments nearing $340 million. The company, considered to be the fastest growing app around, is raking in $35 million in annual revenue, thanks to more than 1.7 million daily users who’ve been won over by the dramatic reduction of emails (in some cases by 50 percent) and meetings (by 25 percent).

So next time you’re reading Fast Company and some Silicon Valley denizen’s big piece of advice is, as it inevitably is, “fail often,” perhaps you’ll listen.  // slack.com

Your guide to the tastiest foodie happenings going down this week. Bon Appetit! 

La Cocina's Holiday Fiesta

Hang out with the La Cocina family tonight at their cafe in the Westfield Mall. As a thank you to their supporters, there will be complimentary food and drinks, as well as 5% off all retail items in their holiday market of local, handcrafted goods. // Wednesday, December 2, 5-8pm, Westfield Mall, 4th Floor, San Francisco  

Wait Cellars Holiday Party 

Wait Cellars is hosting their annual holiday party tonight at Bluxome Street Winery. Enjoy complimentary tastings of their latest releases and shop around for holiday gifts from an impressive list of vendors. There will also be a small plate pairings menu with Jesse Koide (Pink Zebra, Namu Gaji) whipping up delicious bites paired with Wait Cellars wine. // Wednesday, December 2, 5-10pm, 53 Bluxome St, San Francisco. Get tickets here.

Bien Cuit: The Art of Bread Book Release Party

Brooklyn's master baker Zachary Golper (Bien Cuit) is joining forces with Craftsman and Wolves chef-owner William Werner for an evening of food and drink to celebrate the release of the Bien Cuit: The Art of Bread cookbook. Zach and William will collaborate on savory hors d'oeuvres and sweet pastries, and Zach will discuss the creation of the new book and take questions from guests. // $15, Friday, December 4, 6-8pm, 746 Valencia St, San Francisco. Get tickets here. 

New Fall Menu at Americano in the Hotel Vitale

Craftsman & Wolves Pacific Opens

San Francisco just got easier access to William Werner's brilliant and beautiful eats with the opening of the second Craftsman & Wolves outpost on Pacific Ave. The menu will be the same as the Valencia Street location, with favorites such as their frittata breakfast sandwich and ooey gooey Rebel Within making appearances. There will also be Highwire Coffee's Nitro Cold Brew on tap. // Opening Friday, December 4, 1643 Pacific Ave, San Francisco. 

Miki Canelé Pop-Up at The Progress

State Bird Provisions' Mikiko Yui will debut her Canelé pop-up at The Workshop, The Progress' upstairs private dining room, this weekend. Canelé are small French pastries with a custard center and caramelized exteriors; Mikiko does various done-up versions such as a cocoa-maple huckleberry, pineapple chevre, and chocolate banana rum. // Sunday, December 6, 3-7pm, 1525 Fillmore, San Francisco.

Omar Mamoon is the founder of Dough & Co.

We already knew Mark Zuckerberg was a massive giver—the Facebook CEO dropped a $75 million donation on the San Francisco General Hospital this year in addition to setting up a $5 million scholarship fund for undocumented immigrants—but even we were surprised by his most recent announcement.

Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan, welcomed their baby daughter Max to the world last week, and in a letter to their newborn, the new parents vowed to donate 99% of their Facebook shares to charity. This reportedly $45 billion sum (enough to buy 9 billion mosquito nets or put 38 billion children through primary school) will be doled out over the course of their lives and will be one of the most charitable donations to date, competing with the likes of mega-giver Bill Gates.

In fact, when Gates caught wind of this news he praised the couple saying, "Max and every child will now grow up in a better world." Zuckerberg confirmed in his letter that it was baby Max that make him come to this decision, saying, “Having this child has made us think about all the things that should be improved in the world for her whole generation.”

The budding organization is known as the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, with a mission to promote education, combat disease, and strengthen communities.

Gifting on a budget? Check out these perfect gifts for under $50. 

(photo via Yellow Owl Company)

Carve-A-Stamp Kit

Known for their one-of-a-kind stamp sets and adorable greeting cards, Yellow Owl Workshop is the perfect place for DIY lovers to get crafty. Their Carve-a-Stamp Kit contains everything you need in order to make unique stamps for any occasion. This kit includes easy to follow instructions, 25 templates, a carving tool, keepsake bag, and an ink pad. Never stress about picking out the perfect card again, make your own. // Yellow Owl Workshop; $30; yellowowlworkshop.com

Light & Motion Bike Lights

Need a cool new gadget for your brother this holiday season? Look no further than these stellar bike lights. Light & Motion has been in the business for over 20 years, so you can trust them to whip out their product with cutting-edge technology. // Light & Motion; $45; studiovelocycling.com

(photo via Bites with Spice)

Bites With Spice BBQ Recipe Kit

Tis time to toss your Lawry's Season Salt into the trash. Local company Bites With Spice offers their master barbecue starter kit, replete with spices, recipes, and downright darling packaging. Ideal for those who want to venture in the choppy waters of outdoor grilling. // Bites With Spice BBQ Recipe Kit, $10, biteswithspice.com

(photo via Modify Watches)

Creativity Explored Watches

Custom watch company Modify is launching a collection with Creativity Explored, with artwork from local artists such as Antonio Benjamin, Laron Bickerstaff, James Miles, Camille Holvoet, and more. Each watch will feature its own unique and original image designed by these talented artists. You’ll be staring at your watch so much, you’ll never be late again. // Modify Watches; $50 with strap; modifywatches.com

Opinel

In this day and age, multipurpose gifts are some of the best. Opinel is a corkscrew with a stainless steel blade that allows you to open a bottle of wine and slice bread or cheese all with the same tool. // Gravel & Gold; $36; gravelandgold.com

(photo via Amazon)

Lyft Me Up San Francisco

Lyft Me Up San Francisco is a compilation of heartfelt messages collected by one Lyft driver from his passengers. Ranging from the inspirational to the completely wacky, the book is a unique glimpse into San Francisco culture. Your coffee table is waiting. // Amazon; $13; amazon.com

(photo via FAMSF)

San Francisco Skyline Umbrella

Are you prepared for El Niño? Featuring a bold design of San Francisco landmarks, this black and white umbrella comes with a special trick: Once the rain hits its panels, a bright array of colors will fill up the illustrated skyline, bringing some color into a gloomy day. // Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco; $45; shop.famsf.org

Oxygen O+

Oxygen O+ could be the best stocking-stuffer of all. This line of portable oxygen contains 95% pure oxygen that can create relaxation, focus, and rejuvenation. Whether you’re shopping for an athlete, beauty lover, office worker, or student, Oxygen O+ is a gift for anyone. // Oxygen O+; $24 - 280; oxygenplus.com

(photo via Flora Grub Gardens)

Succulent Sake Cup Kit

Just when you thought succulents couldn’t get any cuter, this happened. Each kit comes with five sake cups, and are available with or without the plants. As each succulent requires a little DIY potting, this is the perfect present for anyone with a green thumb. // Flora Grub Gardens; $49; floragrubb.com

Le-Tote Subscription

Need to find a great gift for your mother, grandmother, aunt, or even an end of year gift to yourself? Give the gift of style. Le Tote sends you a box of goodies—everything from holiday dresses, to pants and acessories— every month for only $50 a month. Why are you still reading this? GO. // Le-Tote, $50/ month, letote.com

(photo via Friend in Cheese)

Friends in Cheese Jelly Pack

Are you ready for this jel— oh, god, let's not even go there. A tired Destiny' Child trope isn’t worth using when it comes to Friend in Cheese’s truly remarkable jellies. Sink your teeth into such flavors as Salted Watermelon, the rose-tinged Rosie’s Hip, and Lavender Plum. (Sure beats ye olde Gober Grape!) // Friend in Cheese Jelly Pack, $10, friendincheeses.com

Ken Fulk for Pottery Barn: Orange Laquer Boxes

Keep the emergency New Year champagne safe, we recommend buying a couple of these boxes and stashing all around the crib for when times get tough, for example, after holiday gym sessions. You'll most likely want to pop some bottles. // Orange Laquer Boxes, $25 - $40, potterybarn.com

(photo via Yelp)

Nana Joes Organic + Gluten Free Granola

While gluten-free has become a punchline as of late, there are those who not only prefer meals to be free of gluten, but those whose lives depend on it. So keep that special celiac disease sufferer happy with Nana Joe’s Organic + Gluten Free Granola. This San Francisco-based company scrape each vanilla bean by hand, grinds their own nut butters, and even grate their own orange zest. Some of the best granola in town. // Nana Joes Organic + Gluten Free Granola, $10-$13, nanajoes.com

Christmas Fir Cabin Spray

If you’d rather have soap in liquid form, we recommend this Christmas tree in a bottle. Made from real cedar, fir, and pine, this is a far cry from synthetic perfume. Buy it for a family member, or put it on your wish list immediately. // Makers Market; $25; makersmarket.us 

Caffeinated Shave Cream

Say goodbye to unwanted stubble and ingrown facial hair and hello to the smoothest chin this side of the Mississippi (with a boost of caffeine to boot!). Ladies, you'll thank us later. // Caffeinated Shave Cream, $6, target.com

Portable, Smokeless Cannabis Oil Vapor Pen

Keep discrete on the SF streets with this smokeless Cannabis Oil Vapor Pen. Completely portable, you'll never go without your fix again. // Highlighter - Portable, Smokeless Cannabis Oil Vapor Pen, $50, budmanoc.com

(photo via Finesse)

"In a Pinch" Ad Hoc Salt Cellar 

Featuring salts sourced from France and England, this three-tiered salt container comes to you from the mind of Michelin-starred Chef Thomas Keller. Best of all, it comes adorned with an engraved pig. Perfect for that salty (groan) person in your life. // "In A Pinch" Ad Hoc Salt Cellar, $49, finessethestore.com

Point Sur Soap

Point Sur is not your ordinary soap. It smells of rich honey vanilla and is made with real dried flowers and local wild flower honey for a deliciously moisturizing effect. // Makers Market; $10; makersmarket.us

(photo via Craftsman & Wolves)

Craftsman & Wolves Matcha Milk Jam

Doesn’t get much tastier, or prettier (we’re a sucker for kelly green), than a sweet sleek jar of Match Milk Jam. Craftsman & Wolves cooks together local daily, sugar, and matcha tea into a creamy, think combination that begs for you to forgo the bread and just eat it with a spoon. Yes, it’s that kind heavenliness. // Craftsman & Wolves Matcha Milk Jam, $12, craftsman-wolves.com

(photo via The Bitter Truth)

Bitters & Bottles Travel Cocktails

Perfect your topknot, manicure that over-labored bead, slap on a lumber sexual flannel, and twist your ‘stache’s tips to Valencia Street perfection. You’re a mixologist now! And what better way to begin your journey of booze slinging than with Bitters & Bottles Cocktail Travels. Their starter packs will have you creating concoctions to rival that of your nearest hipster watering hole. Dig? // Bitters & Bottles Travel Cocktails, $12-$32, bittersandbottles.com

“Kids today, they don’t even leave Santa milk and cookies anymore. They just leave him almond milk and Instagram crackers.”

Winter Sweater Beer and Contest

We know you've got an ugly winter sweater hiding somewhere in the back of your closet. Tonight is the night to dig it out and wear it with pride, while welcoming the debut of Local Beer Co.'s deep, dark Winter Sweater Imperial Porter. Made with chocolate malt, graham crackers, vanilla beans, and lots of love, it's guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. At 9% ABV, you'll be toasty (and toasted) in no time. The person with the ugliest sweater wins a 64oz insulated growler filled with Winter Sweater. The festivities start at 7pm. // 69 Bluxome St., localbrewingco.com

Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical Wine Tasting

This Friday, for $75, you can join an intimate vertical wine tasting at The Barrel Room San Francisco showcasing Freemark Abbey's Cabernet Sauvignon from 1987, 1999, 2002, 2004 and 2005, plus a 2004 Bosche Cabernet Sauvignon. The special event, slated for 5pm to 7pm, is limited to 40 guests. Reservations are required via reservations@barrelroomsf.com. // 415 Sansome St., barrelroomsf.com

Celebrate Repeal Day with 21st Amendment Brewery

For dedicated drinkers, there's a holiday that's more important than St. Patrick's Day, Cinco de Mayo, and New Year's Eve combined. December 5th marks the 82nd anniversary of the repeal of prohibition, otherwise known as Repeal Day. Each year, 21st Amendment Brewery (the amendment that repealed prohibition) hosts a parade and costume party to celebrate our freedom to drink beer. This year, they're hosting the 1930s-style bash in San Leandro, at their brand-new, state-of-the-art brewing campus, from noon until 6pm. Purchase food and beer tickets in advance, and take the free shuttle from the San Leandro BART station to enjoy a full menu of beercan chicken and house-made beer sausages, live Dixieland jazz, and casino games, a food truck court, and a cigar lounge. There's even a family-friendly kid zone, in case someone needs a "time out." // 2010 Williams St., San Leandro, 21st-amendment.com

Remember the Password

Stop by FIVE Restaurant and Bar in Berkeley on Repeal Day and order "The Enforcer," named after Chicago mobster Frank Nitti, featuring Roundhouse gin, Chartreuse, rose water, orange juice, lager beer, and egg white. Slip the password “Double-Edged Sword” into your banter with the bartender or server, and you'll get your drink for $8. // 2086 Allston Way, Berkeley; five-berkeley.com

Sunday Supper Cantina

For some, Sunday Supper isn't complete without dessert. For us, Sunday Supper isn't complete without cocktails. That's why we're intrigued by the Spanish Sunday Supper pop-up menu preview dinner by Telefèric Barcelona, hosted by Calavera in Oakland. In addition to a menu of authentic Spanish pintxos, tapas, and dessert, guests can choose from five creative cocktails from the cantina, including the Mojito Le Fee Vert, made with rum, lime, mint, and lime fairy floss. And, no—we won't tell you what fairy floss is. You'll just have to try it yourself. Call 510.338.3273 to make reservations. // 2337 Broadway, Oakland; calaveraoakland.com

Send drinking suggestions to renee@grassrootspr.com.

Because the holidays should always be delicious. 

(photo via Health Ceramcis)

Heath Serving Set Seasonal Collection

Drawing inspiration from the mists that blanket the Northern California coast, Heath Ceramic’s serving set pair two bowls together with their 12 x 12 platter featuring Storm and Stinson Grey colors, in matte and glossy, respectively. Perfect for serving with McEvoy olives, tapanade, and homemade crackers or, better yet, if it’s just for you, a spread of Rolos, Goldfish crackers, and Nutella-topped crostini. // Heath Serving Set Seasonal Collection, $103, heathceramics.com

(photo via Finesse)

"In a Pinch" Ad Hoc Salt Cellar 

Featuring salts sourced from France and England, this three-tiered salt container comes to you from the mind of Michelin-starred Chef Thomas Keller. Best of all, it comes adorned with an engraved pig. Perfect for that salty (groan) person in your life. // "In A Pinch" Ad Hoc Salt Cellar, $49, finessethestore.com

(photo via Drew Hash Knives)

Drew Hash Knives

Designed by a chef, for chefs, in San Francisco, these pointy beauties are perfect for the artisan foodie in your home. As creator Drew Hash notes, "If a problem from the construction of one of my knives arises (which has never happened), I’ll fix it or replace it for free." Pretty sharp. // Drew Hash Knives , $200 - $450, drewhashknives.com

(photo via Friend in Cheese)

Friends in Cheese Jelly Pack

Are you ready for this jel— oh, god, let's not even go there. A tired Destiny' Child trope isn’t worth using when it comes to Friend in Cheese’s truly remarkable jellies. Sink your teeth into such flavors as Salted Watermelon, the rose-tinged Rosie’s Hip, and Lavender Plum. (Sure beats ye olde Gober Grape!) // Friend in Cheese Jelly Pack, $10, friendincheeses.com

(photo via Bites with Spice)

Bites With Spice BBQ Recipe Kit

Tis time to toss your Lawry's Season Salt into the trash. Local company Bites With Spice offers their master barbecue starter kit, replete with spices, recipes, and downright darling packaging. Ideal for those who want to venture in the choppy waters of outdoor grilling. // Bites With Spice BBQ Recipe Kit, $10, biteswithspice.com

(photo via Toque Blanche)

La Chamba Classic Soup Pot 

What with this winter promising an El Niño ready to pour down a drought-curing deluge of rain, nothing will go better with all that rain than soup. And what better showcase for your bisques and minestrones than this La Chambra Classic Soup Pot. This hand-crafted black clay cookware goes from stove to table beautifully. Besides, everyone and their dog has Le Creuset; this year go for La Chambra. // La Chamba Classic Soup Pot, $70, mytoque.com

(photo via Wikimedia)

Black Truffle Class at Fatted Calf

Already outfitted with many a meat butchery class, noted flesh purveyors Fatted Calf also offer an wondrous black truffle class in January 2016.  Spend a day immersed in the redolent world of the black truffle as you learn how to prepare black truffle sausage, crema di lardo with truffle, and other truffled treats. Fungi immersion awaits. Take a whiff. // Black Truffle Class, fattedcalf.com/classes

(photo via Nude Glass)

Nude Glass' Red or White Wine Glasses

For vino purists who insist on the right kind of glass (as opposed to some of us who are perfectly, sadly content with the nearest clean mug), designer Ron Arad has come up with the two-in-one Red or White Wine glass. Simply upend the glass to match with whichever hue you plan on sipping. Bottoms up! // Nude Glass’ Red or White Wine Glasses, $140, set of two, nudeglass.com

(photo via Craftsman & Wolves)

Craftsman & Wolves Matcha Milk Jam

It doesn’t get much tastier, or prettier (we’re a sucker for kelly green), than a sweet sleek jar of Match Milk Jam. Craftsman & Wolves cooks together local dairy, sugar, and matcha tea into a creamy, think combination that begs for you to forgo the bread and just eat it with a spoon. Yes, it’s that kind heavenliness. // Craftsman & Wolves Matcha Milk Jam, $12, craftsman-wolves.com

(photo via March)

Richard Brendon’s Diamond Barware

For those utterly sick of sipping from mason jars to keep it all-too-real, get your well-manicured hands on Richard Brendon’s Diamond barware. Mouth blown and hand cut with a classic-yet-modern diamond pattern, you’ll want to use them for your finest brown liquors and artisan spirits. Set can come with decanter, ice bucket, collins glass, double old-fashioned, and liqueur glass. // Richard Brendon’s Diamond barware, $100-$500, marchsf.com

(photo via Gift a Feast)

A Feast of Appetizers

If you will, think of this as an artisan, Bay Area-centric Hickory Farms' box, perfect for your Midwest dad. Give a Feasts’s "Feast of Appetizers” basket features locally-made spicy salami, savory cheese coins, seasoned green olives, cheese, candied citrus peel, and toffee. Sure to please sweet and savory fans alike. // Feast of Appetizers, $100, giftafeast.com

(photo via Yelp)

Nana Joes Organic + Gluten Free Granola

While gluten-free has become a punchline as of late, there are those who not only prefer meals to be free of gluten, but those whose lives depend on it. So keep that special celiac disease sufferer happy with Nana Joe’s Organic + Gluten Free Granola. This San Francisco-based company scrape each vanilla bean by hand, grinds their own nut butters, and even grate their own orange zest. Some of the best granola in town. // Nana Joes Organic + Gluten Free Granola, $10-$13, nanajoes.com

(photo via The Bitter Truth)

Bitters & Bottles Travel Cocktails

Perfect your topknot, manicure that over-labored beard, slap on a lumber sexual flannel, and twist your ‘stache’s tips to Valencia Street perfection. You’re a mixologist now! And what better way to begin your journey of booze slinging than with Bitters & Bottles Cocktail Travels. Their starter packs will have you creating concoctions to rival that of your nearest hipster watering hole. Dig? // Bitters & Bottles Travel Cocktails, $12-$32, bittersandbottles.com

(photo via Refinery)

Refinery Wine Subscription

A guy in a bicycle delivers a bottle of (choice) wine to your house. Every day. WITHIN THE HOUR. In other words, this is quite possibly the world’s greatest gift. You’re welcome. // Refinery Wine Subscription, rewinery.com

Stay in shape and give back this holiday season with these festive runs throughout the Bay Area.

Santa Skivvies Run

Hundreds of Bay Area residents will strip down to their underwear on Sunday, December 13th to support free and local HIV prevention and care programs. The annual Santa Skivvies Run is only 1.3-miles and all proceeds benefit the San Francisco Aids Foundation. Registration is just $50 until Friday, December 11th— so what are you waiting for? Individual, team, fundraising and volunteer opportunities are also available. // December 13th (Castro), santaskivviesrun.org

The Great Santa Run

You can score a rad five-piece Santa suit by participating in either the traditional 5k or the Rudolph One-Mile at the annual Great Santa Run. The race around Crissy Field benefits Opportunity Village, which provides opportunities, enrichment programs, and support to nearly 3,000 citizens with disabilities and their families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Individual registration is $50 with family and team discounts available. // December 13th (Crissy Field), raceroster.com

Christmas Relays

Grab three fast friends and join the West Valley Track Club for their 42nd annual gathering at Lake Merced on Saturday, December 19th. Each team member will take on 4.5 miles and participants over 21 will be rewarded with two complimentary beers courtesy of 21st Amendment Brewery. Expect the oldest track club in Northern California to dish out some competition. The four-person adult relay is $72 per team, and registration fees support the club’s mission to encourage and support athletes at all stages of their running pursuits. // December 19th (Lake Merced), westvalleytc.com/christmas-relays

Holiday Hustle

Burn off those Christmas cookies and sharpen your wits with a 5k or 10k adventure course at the Holiday Hustle on Saturday, December 26th. This adult scavenger hunt sends teams of 1-5 around Berkeley’s Solano and Marin neighborhoods either on foot or bikes searching for awesome holiday decorations! Checkpoints will be scattered on the custom map for each course. Registration fees start at $15 for the 5k and $20 for the 10k. // December 26th (Berkeley), go-terraloco.blogspot.com

Hot Chocolate Run

Who wouldn’t run for chocolate? Kick off your new year with either this 5k or 15k run through San Francisco on Sunday, January 10th.  If its name isn’t obvious enough, hot chocolate and decadent chocolate samples will be waiting for you at the finish line. Operated by RAM Racing, the registration fee of $49 for the 5k and $79 for the 15k benefit local Ronald McDonald House Charities. //  January 10th (San Francisco), hotchocolate15k.com/sanfrancisco

The season of pumpkin spice is over and peppermint is taking its rightful spot in the winter spotlight.Farmhouse Inn's decadent fudge recipe calls specifically for Andes Peppermint Chunks, because we all know that no other peppermint will ever compare. 

Farmhouse Peppermint Fudge

14 ounce can of sweetened condensed milk

1 tablespoon butter, plus extra for buttering the dish

1 pound dark chocolate chips/chunks

⅓ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup Andes Peppermint Chunks

1. Grease a 8 x 8 or 8 x 11 baking dish. Sprinkle half the peppermint chunks in the bottom of the dish and set aside.

2. Place a medium sauce pot over medium heat with 2 inches of water. Place a glass bowl over the top, making sure the glass doesn't touch the water.

3. Pour the condensed milk and butter into the bowl, and heat.

4. Add the chocolate chips and salt in the bowl. Stir the chocolate and wait about 5 minutes until it melts and thickens.

5. The mixture should thicken to a thick cake batter consistency, almost too thick to pour.

6. Add both extracts and mix well.

7. Pour the mixture into the dish. Gently tap the dish on the counter for at least a minute to allow air bubbles to rise to the surface and smooth.

8. Sprinkle the remaining peppermint chips over the top and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, to set.

9. To cut, dip a sharp knife in hot tap water, wipe and cut quickly. Dip and wipe the knife between cuts. Cut into 1 inch squares. 

The story of Anne Wojcicki’s genetic testing service 23andMe is destined to become a classic in the epic tale of how libertarian, fast-paced, entrepreneurial Silicon Valley clashes with the slow grind of regulatory Washington. 

Cofounded in 2006 by San Mateo native Wojcicki with her business partner, Linda Avery, 23andMe has become well known for its personal genetic testing kits that are as easy to get and use as a click of the mouse and a jaunt to the post office. Upon its release, Time magazine declared the genome kit the invention of the year. But alas, the FDA felt otherwise and, in 2013, the government agency ordered 23andMe to stop marketing its kits to consumers in a famously bitchy letter. The FDA’s main concern: Consumers would get medical information, like say their predisposition for something like breast cancer, and attempt to self-manage their care. (The horror!)

In a major setback for the biotech firm, 23andMe was forced to cool its jets and work hand in hand with the FDA in order to receive future clearances. Wojcicki’s company held on, allowed to remain in business by selling a $99 personal ancestry kit that sheds light on such fun facts as how closely you’re linked to Neanderthals or whether you’re an Ashkenazi Jew.

In the interim, Wojcicki, herself a biologist, hired a raft of healthcare regulations experts to bring 23andMe products into line with federal rules. Fast forward to her big win: In October, 23andMe became the first direct-to-consumer genetic service to provide a FDA-approved kit that tests for autosomal recessive disorders.  //  23andme.com

Growing tired of Karl throwing some serious shade on your day? Take a trip down the 101 and trade in those layers for sunglasses and tank tops. 

One of the world's most iconic cities, Los Angeles has continuously ranked as one of the U.S.'s top destinations for a good time. After Online Travel Agency FlightHub played with the numbers for the 2016 travel season, they released their projections for the years's top travel destinations. While Florida dominated FlightHub's travel expectations with four of the top five U.S cities, LA rounded out the top five of this FlightHub review, outpacing some stern competition.

Why Los Angeles? Check out these tourist attractions drawing FlightHub travellers to the City of Angels. 

J Paul Getty Museum

This massive museum features Greek antiquities, Roman antiquities, and contemporary art. Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean your brain has to be.  // 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles; getty.edu

Griffith Park and Observatory

The largest state park in the state of California, Griffith Park is home to the Los Angeles Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, and a planetarium. Outdoor activities include golf and tennis courts. // 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles; laparks.org

Hollywood

It goes without saying that Hollywood is a major draw for tourists. More than just an iconic sign, Hollywood features the historic Chinese Theatre, the Walk Of Fame, and Hollywood Boulevard. If you don't go here, did you even visit LA?

Venice Beach

This spot is perfect for those itching for some sun. Venice Beach is one of America’s most famous beaches, with golden sand backed by a lengthy boardwalk filled with bikers, rollerblading, or just taking a stroll. This LA fixture also includes the famous Muscle Beach and has plenty of unique shops for that retail therapy. // venicebeach.com

La Brea Tar Pits

Now for something a little different. The La Brea Tar Pits formed around 40,000 years ago, trapping and preserving ancient animals. This area now serves as something of a museum, showing off the ancient life found in the pits. This is one of the most unique experiences budding paleontologists and lovers ancient life can get. // 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles; tarpits.org

While the FlightHub list doesn't skimp on unique destinations, Los Angeles, California is definitely one to make a note of. But your journey doesn't need to stop there, as the FlightHub list also featured top travel destinations like Phoenix, Las Vegas, New York, Tamapa, and Honolulu. Bon Voyage!

Meet the stache shield, a rogue corgi gets a mini vacation, and more amazing news from the past week.

Kobe Bryant to Retire,ESPN 

Kobe Bryant, who has helped the Lakers win five NBA championships over a 20-year career spent entirely in Los Angeles, announced Sunday on The Players' Tribune website that he will retire after this season, writing that "This season is all I have left to give." In a first-person story titled "Dear Basketball," the 37-year-old wrote in the form of a poem that the sport "gave a six-year-old boy his Laker dream/And I'll always love you for it." Branyt writes, "But I can't love you obsessively for much longer. This season is all I have left to give. My heart can take the pounding. My mind can handle the grind but my body knows it's time to say goodbye." 

Meet the Stache Shield,Odd Company

Meet the Stache Shield—the greatest and most multifunctional mustache protector of all times. Inspired by the great inventors from the 1800s, the Stache Shield is for the modern man. It works just as perfectly for your coffee cup and beer mug as strapped around your head. When you're not using the Shield, you can even wear it as a necklace. The Stache Shield is designed and handcrafted in Sweden by the Odd Company, and 10% of the sales goes directly to the Movember Foundation. This could very well be the best Christmas gift ever for the bearded man.

“Hot Cop of Castro” Hit-and-Run,SF Weekly 

Christopher Kohrs, the San Francisco police officer celebrated as the "Hot Cop of the Castro" for his chiseled physique and willingness to show it off, was arrested early Sunday for felony hit-and-run, according to his brothers and sisters-in-arms at the SFPD. Kohrs, 38, was allegedly piloting a Dodge Charger along the Broadway strip of adult fun in North Beach at 2:20 a.m. Sunday when he struck two men crossing the street near Montgomery, according to a police press release. He abandoned the car — registered to him — at the scene but was arrested an undisclosed amount of time later, police said Monday, and made bail sometime on Sunday.

Corgi Flies to Hawaii by Accident,Time 

American Airlines put her on the wrong flight. The airline mishap landed a very cute corgi named Bethany in Honolulu, Hawaii, instead of Jackson, Mississippi. But she really didn’t seem to mind the mixup. Bethany was heading from Seattle to her new home in Jackson, Hawaii News Now reports. But during a layover in Dallas, American Airlines staff placed her on the wrong flight, ultimately sending her to a tropical paradise instead.

Big Changes for Yahoo, The Washington Post

Big changes may be coming for Yahoo as the company's board meets and reportedly considers a proposal to sell the company's core business — the search and advertising sections of the 20-year-old company that have struggled to compete with Google and Facebook. But what is precipitating discussions of a radical shift is a mundane financial issue: Taxes. With Yahoo struggling to keep up with rivals, its Web business -- e-mail, search, social platforms and news sites -- have tumbled in value. Right now, the company has a total market value of $34 billion. But much of that is because it owns 15 percent of the fast-growing Chinese Web retailer Alibaba. Yahoo's stake is estimated to be worth as much as $32 billion.

Your friends will thank you for gifting these awesome gadgets.

Whistle GPS Pet Tracker

Want to make it easier to keep track of your pet? The Whistle GPS Pet Tracker takes the stress out of searching for your pet if it ever runs away. It combines the best on-collar GPS tracking device with a simple mobile app, putting your pet’s needs and location right at your fingertips whenever you need it. The purr-fect gift for anyone with a furry baby! // Whistle, $80, whistle.com

Zolt Charging Gadget from FuseProject

If you own a phone, tablet, or laptop, chances are you’ll eventually have to charge them. Zolt is a small, but intelligent charger for life on the go. With Zolt, you can power your laptop and two mobile devices, and can even power your GoPro, portable speakers, camera, and more. The best part is that it fits in your back pocket! //Zolt Charger,$100, gozolt.com

Parrot Bebop Drone

Take flight with one of the coolest drones you’ll ever own! Parrot Bebop Drone is equipped with a 14 megapixel “fisheye” camera, records videos, and takes pictures within a 180-degree field of view, and remarkable image quality. Plan your flights on your smartphone and let your drone do the rest. It’s that easy! // Parrot Bebop Drone, $499, us.store.parrot.com/en 

3Doodler Drawing Pen

The 3Doodler is the world’s first and best 3D printing pen that allows you to draw in 3D. You can draw up into the air and create anything you can think of. It’s a perfect gift for any young artist. // 3Doodler, $99, the3doodler.com

Voyomotive

Don’t pay for any new upgrade to your car just yet. VOYO connects your smart phone to your car and your car to the Voyomotive Cloud. The VOYO app allows a user to lock/unlock car doors, detect malfunctions, send alerts to other drivers, and increases your car’s security and fuel efficiency. // VOYO, $100, voyomotive.com

GearVR, Samsung’s Virtual Reality Headset Powered by Oculus

Ever wanted to have your own personal movie theater? With Samsung's GearVR powered by Oculus, you can. Watch hundreds of movies and TV shows right off of Netflix and play games from Google Play. You can even swap out the main front screen for your Samsung mobile device. It’s virtually that cool. // GearVR, $99, oculus.com/en-us/gear-vr

Coin Wallet

What do you do when you have too many credit and debit cards to fit in your wallrt? Enter Coin. Coin is a nifty device that allows people to ditch their plastic cards and link them to the device. Coin is safe to use and it protects you from identity theft. // Coin, $99, onlycoin.com

Sense Sleep Sensor

Sense is the smart sleep tracker that improves your sleep, wakes you up feeling great, and shows how the environment of your bedroom affects your sleep. Ditch those annoying alarm clocks that make you feel even more tired in the morning. Sense is your own personal sleeping aid without the medication. If your room is too hot, Sense lets you know. Sleep with some peace of mind with Sense. // Sense, $129, hello.is/3

Boombotix

Boombotix is a small, portable speaker which you can attach to your pocket, backpack, or bicycle. With its clear, crisp sound, turning your life into a soundtrack has never been so enjoyable! // Boombotix, $100, boombotix.com

PetCube

Vacations are meant to be fun, but that fun can easily be taken away when you’re constantly worried about your furry friend back home. PetCube takes away that worry by allowing the owner to check in on Fido or Fluffy at any time with the PetCube camera and a smart phone device. //PetCube, $199, petcube.com

SONOS by Enjoy

For early adopters who lack the time/knowledge/motivation to set up and install their newest gadgets, Enjoy is a new San Francisco-based service that makes the whole thing a snap. You buy it, they bring it—and your friendly technician will set it up and answer all your burning IT questions. Today's hot product? The brand-spanking-new SONOS home speakers. You know you want them. Enjoy! // SONOS from Enjoy, $199, enjoy.com/products/sonos

A boozy book club, literary magazine parties, and more literary events to attend this month. 

A Reading and Conversation with Claudia Rankine & Karen Green

The California College of Arts’ MFA Program joins forces with Small Press Traffic to host a magical night of literature. Claudia Rankine, best known for her acclaimed novel Citizen, is sharing the stage with NorCal author and artist Karen Green for an in-depth conversations and special reading in the California College of Arts Timken Hall. Tickets will be sold at the door and are free for CCA students and SPT members. There is a sliding scale of $10-$25 for the public. // Sunday, Dec. 6th, 5pm-7pm; California College of Arts (1111 8th St, San Francisco); cca.edu

Quiet Lightning’s Sixth Anniversary

To celebrate their upcoming birthday, Quiet Lightning, a submission-based reading series, is putting together a six-year anniversary mixtape. Make sure to get to the unveiling party early, because the first 100 guests will receive a printed copy of Quiet Lightening’s sPARKLE & bLINK 70, filled with their accepted submissions with cover art by  Michelle Brandemuehl. Enjoy readings from over twelve different authors while cheersing to another year. This is an all ages event and tickets are $7-$10, but no one will be turned away. // Monday, Dec. 7th, 7pm; Smash Gallery (210 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco); quietlightening.org

ZYZZYVA Winter Issue Celebration

Come one, come all! ZYZZYVA is bringing the holiday cheer at their annual Winter issue celebration. Hosted at their brand new location, The Mechanics Institute, Bay Area literatis will join authors and the ZYZZYVA team to close out their 30th anniversary year. Enjoy readings from this Winter issue’s contributors, including Paul Madonna, Heather Monley, Austin Smith, Dominca Phettplace, and Lauren Alwan. This event is free for members of the Mechanics Institute and ZYZZYVA subscribers. Tickets are $15 for public admission. Make sure to secure your spot and register here. // Friday, Dec. 11th, 6:30pm; The Mechanics Institute (57 Post St 4th Floor, San Francisco); milibrary.org

The Shout

This isn’t your average literary reading. Oakland’s The Shout takes place every second Monday of the month, where storytellers from all over take center stage at Perch Coffee House to deliver a ten-minute true story from their lives. The catch? Each story is delivered without any notes or scripts beforehand. In fact, six readers are chosen at random from a blind drawing from a hat. It’s an all-suspense literary event, so you might want to ease up on that espresso. // Monday, Dec. 14th, 7:30pm; Perch Coffee House (440 Grand Ave, Oakland); theshoutstorytelling.com

Any Book of the Month Club

Have you just been dying to ramble on about the new book you’ve been reading? Alley Cat Books is holding their monthly Any Book of the Month Club, where bookworms of all kinds can meet up and discuss what piece of literature they’ve been indulging in lately. Whether it’s a tear-jerking memoir or out-of-the-box science fiction novel, guests are there to listen. It’s the perfect excuse to get some book recommendations this holiday season, on top of boozing on wine and devouring snacks. Come and be merry you geeks. // Sunday, Dec. 20th, 6pm; Alley Cat Books (3036 24th St, San Francisco); alleycatbookshop.com

Is there anything in the world as magical as a wedding ceremony that takes place in the middle of the redwoods?

In a stunning ode to the surrounding trees as well as the bright succulents in their SF apartment, newlyweds Mirra and Adrian modeled their wedding cake and décor after nature's bounty. The bride sparkled in a gold dress, rather than the traditional white, as she walked down a dirt aisle to the flower-adorned altar. 

As a tribute to their multicultural backgrounds, the nuptials had elements of traditional English, Hebrew, and Spanish ceremonies. The Jewish traditions of dancing the hora, breaking the glass, and lifting the newlyweds up on chairs were an integral part of the night. For the reception, the couple's friends Paul and Emily of Rhythm Rangellers provided festive music—because who doesn’t like a good fiddle?

Venue:Sequoia National Forest 

Dress:Aidon Mattox

Floral Designer:Blue Heron Farms

Tuxedo and Men Attire:Hickey Freeman

Makeup Artist:Kimberly Cutler

Jewelry:Lady Luna Studio

Band:Pangea Futbol Club

Cake Designer:The Whole Cake 

Much like the tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, this hike up Mount Burdell in Novato has an option that’s “just right” for you. Whatever distance you opt for, you’ll be rewarded with outstanding vistas, lush grasslands, impressive forests, and tranquil trail rambling.Those chosing the "papa bear" route will climb nearly 1,800 feet and hike 6.5 miles.(Photo by Lisa Williams via Flickr Creative Commons)

How to Get There

Novato is Marin’s second largest city and is located astride Hwy. 101 at the northern end of the county. Take the San Marin Dr. exit and head west for 2.5 miles on San Marin Dr. then make a right on San Andreas Dr. and park.

Transit options include Marin Transit route 251.

The Hike

1. Head up San Andreas Dr. to San Andreas Ct., turn right and look for the Pub Trail on your left.
2. Climb up the Pub trail for 0.3 miles.
3. At the intersection with the San Andreas Fire Rd. bear left. You’ll soon see San Andreas Dr. below.  
4. Continue up the San Andreas Fire Rd.
5. After 0.4 miles (and a super steep section) you’ll see the Dwarf Oak Trail on your left. Take this trail for the baby bear option (jump to step 14).
6. Otherwise continue climbing for 0.3 miles as the San Andreas becomes the Middle Burdell Fire Rd.
7. Bear left on the Deer Camp Fire Rd. (part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail). You’re now at about 650 feet of elevation and the views behind you begin to really open up.
8. You’ll pass the Pierre Joske Grove of oaks as the trail swings left.
9. Further up, the trail veers right and the views astoun as you ascend the upper flanks of Mt. Burdell.
10. At 1.4 miles on the Deer Camp you’ll meet the Cobblestone Fire Rd. Mama bears will want to continue on Deer Camp, while Papas will turn left to ascend the 0.7 miles to the summit. It’s a bit rough and rocky here.
11. Upon reaching Burdell Ridge Mountain Fire Rd. go across it to the single track trail and proceed to the top of Burdell Mountain. At 1,558 feet you’ll be taking in some of best vistas in the North Bay.
12.  Backtrack down the Cobblestone turn left on the Deer Park to begin the descent.
13. When the Deer Park joins the Middle Burdell, Hidden Lake will come into view. This seasonal pond is home to a variety of rare plants and is usually alive with frogs and salamanders during the wet season.
14. Continue west (left) on the Middle Burdell to rejoin the San Andreas and retrace your steps to the Dwarf Oak Trail. Close the gate behind you as you head west on the Dwarf Oak. In the spring, the slopes along the trail are filled with wildflowers.
15. At about 0.6 miles you’ll encounter the signpost for the Myrtle Place Trail. Take it down to San Ramon Way, turning left to curve down to San Marin Dr. and your start point.

Other Things to Do

There’s a shopping mall located between San Andreas and San Ramon that has a Mary’s Pizza Shack, a Starbucks, and the China Village restaurant as well as a grocery store. Old Town Novato has many interesting shops and restaurants. To get there, head back towards Hwy. 101 and turn right on Redwood Blvd. just before the freeway on-ramp. Turn left on Grant Ave.

More Info

Check out the Marin County Open Space Mt. Burdell page and Mt. Burdell trail map.

Looking for a taste of tranquillité d’esprit in your next house? You're bound to find inner peace in this renovated Laurel Heights home.

Nestled between the Presidio and Golden Gate Park, this modern abode boasts high ceilings, an open floor plan, and plenty of extra rooms for guests ... or for that in-house yoga studio you've always dreamed of. There's even a cute breakfast bar perfect for whipping up waffles after a late-night of entertaining or an early morning run (we're not judging). 

The lower level consists of two bedrooms, one of which is a master suite with a den, a spa-like bathroom (relaxation, here you come), a walk-in closet, and access to a beautiful yard. The upper level includes a bright livingroom with a fireplace, kitchen (yup, kitchen is on the top floor), and a deck spreading above said yard (ok, it's more like a small park). Not only are you walking distance from two of San Francisco's best green spaces, but you also have your very own backyard to lounge and play in! When you need to be reminded that you're still in the city, downtown is only a bus or bike ride away—the best of both worlds! 

Here are the deets:

Location: 683 Spruce St., San Francisco 

Asking Price: $2,195,000

Bedrooms: 4

Baths: 3

Living Space:  2,883 sq. ft.

Levels: 2

Fireplace: 1

Garage: 1 (one-car; with storage)

Exterior Feature: Deck

Marin may be one of the more expensive counties in the Bay Area, but that doesn't mean there aren't mouth-watering eats to be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Joe’s Taco Lounge 

Don't be alarmed by the decor at Joe's, where fairy lights, religious iconography, kitschy Mexican tchotchkes, and flashy hot sauce bottles compete for your attention. Since 1992, this local joint is always buzzing with those who come hungry for a tasty selection of Mexican dishes including marinated, grilled fish tacos, super nachos, grilled corn-on-the-cob with chipotle lime butter, chicken tortilla soup, and loaded burritos. Wash it down with an imported Mexican beer. // 382 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, joestacolounge.com 

(Photo courtesy of Roots Rated)

Sol Food Restaurant 

This Puerto Rican eatery has a fun and lively ambience, with food that will make your taste buds scream out “Yum!” Come hungry and load up on ensaladas, platanos, sandwiches, and generous combination plates consisting of your choice of meat or seafood (with a vegetarian option available), rice, beans, organic salad, and fried plantains. And come early, locals aren't afraid to line up around the block for the restaurant's amazing coconut latte or decadent desserts.  // Locations: Mill Valley and San Rafael, solfoodrestaurant.com 

Avatars 

Avatars restaurant, a local favorite, has kept loyal diners happy with exotic and delicious Indian-fusion dishes for 26 years running. In fact, Avatars is such a hit in Marin that it has four convenient locations: Sausalito, Mill Valley, Larkspur and Fairfax. Opt for the signature Punjabi burrito with fresh curried garbanzo beans, basmati rice, fresh herb salsa, seasonal fruit chutney, pickled carrot, yogurt and tamarind sauce. A tasty addition is the curried pumpkin with curried lamb. They also offer basmati rice plates for those of you who are gluten-free, with the option of substituting rice with organic quinoa! Don’t miss out on a side order of crispy papadums and a refreshing mango lassi to wash it all down. // Locations: Sausalito, Mill Valley, Larkspur and Fairfax, enjoyavatars.com   

(Photo courtesy of Burmatown.com) 

Burmatown 

You're guaranteed to find a full house on any night of the week at this cozy mother-daughter run restaurant, so it's always best to get there early to snag a table (they don't accept reservations). Order up and try the tea leaf salad and Burmatown baos to start, followed by the coconut chicken curry with squash and the beef short rib curry with potato, and the delectable chili garlic green beans as a side. Honestly, you can’t go wrong when it comes to this perfectly curated menu.  // 60 Corte Madera Ave, Corte Madera, burmatown.com     

Thailand Restaurant 

Who doesn’t love a good pad Thai or Thai curry? Start off with some fresh spring rolls with homemade peanut dipping sauce, then opt for the green curry loaded with mostly-local and organic veggies, sweet basil, and free-range chicken (extra eggplant is a must). Most dishes are gluten- and dairy-free, so feel free to invite even your most picky friend. // 721 E. Blithedale Avenue, Suite B, Mill Valley millvalleythailand.com

(Photo via Blogspot)

Amberjack 

Tired of spending the week’s paycheck on a hyped-up sushi joint? Amberjack, located in the heart of Mill Valley, is the local favorite for well-priced fresh fish. Amberjack is a tiny restaurant with only a few tables (expect a line), but they also offer a brisk take-out service if you're in a hurry. Menu options include: seaweed salad, miso eggplant appetizer (Yaki Nasu), as well as the classic sashimi, nigiri sushi, and a variety of tasty sushi rolls or hand rolls. // 72 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, 

(Photo courtesy of DJ's Chinese Cuisine)

DJ’s Chinese Cuisine 

DJ’s Chinese Cuisine is the real deal when it comes to authentic Chinese food. Menu favorites range from tender Mongolian beef sautéed with green onions and hot peppers to spring rolls, fried rice, chow mein, won ton soup, and a selection of vegetable dishes. Enjoy your meal while sipping on a complimentary pot of tea served with the warmest hospitality. DJ’s is also a popular destination for those seeking take out, and don’t forget to crack open that fortune cookie, you never know what your future may bring. // 435 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, djchinesecuisine.com

Sarah Hawthorne is the founder of My Balance & Wellness.

Fashion girls who've been in San Francisco long enough know Gina Pell and Amy Parker, the BFFs in business who launched Splendora, "the authority on fabulous," back in 1999 and quickly became known for their killer recommendations, guide books, and parties. They sold their company to Joyus in 2011, and now the gals are back with a new project that's telling the old Splendora gang, as well as a host of new followers, what's what.

A recommendation engine for top beauty, shopping, and lifestyle services that launched when there were only a handful of sites focused on women, “Splendora was a long running startup," says Pell, "but also one of the greatest experiences of our lives working with hundreds of talented women both in our company and in the community. After we sold, Amy and I worked with other pioneering companies (Joyus, Barnraiser) where we learned a new set of skills, but we kept wracking our brains on how we could build something together again.”

The two considered all the possibilities and finally settled on the obvious choice: to do what they do best. Launched this November, theWhat is a weekly newsletter, already delivering a short list of the women's favorite things—whether it's a TV show (HBO's Doll & Em), a holiday cocktail (the Cranberry 75) or a print magazine (Cereal). 

“We felt there was a hole in our inbox after Splendora and DailyCandy were both acquired and dismantled,” explains Pell, who also launched LOLy, the best emoji app ever, earlier this year. “There are so few emails that I find helpful or entertaining. Our idea for theWhat is very simple: to turn women (and men cool enough to get it) on to the most excellent products, places, people, and experiences we've discovered after more than a decade of being in the recommendations business.”

In the San Francisco fashion community where upstarts come and quickly go, Parker and Pell provide a refreshing dose of consistency. Of course, the two are evolving and finding new ways to offer quality content—"Back then, we were the ingenues who didn't know what we were doing," says Pell with her charatistic hearty laugh. "Now we're OGs who know what we're doing, but everything has changed!"

She theorizes that the local style scene has “lost the vibrancy of the late 90s and early 2000s" as a result of creative talent going to dot-coms, and the rising cost of living here making it “tough to make room for indie boutiques and collectives, which is a damn shame."

For Parker and Pell, lifestyle experts living in Napa and Marin respectively, it's always a laugh a minute. 

"Our intention for theWhat is to make something good, honest, and real. We have no intention to scale, sell, or go public. We just want people to look forward getting it. Our main goal is our tagline: "We like. You like." I am a San Francisco native and love my city. Instead of everyone pointing fingers, I wish there was a serious solutions-finding movement to slow the poshification of this very special place.” //  Subscribe to theWhat at thewhatlist.com

The Bay Area is home to hundreds of charitable organizations making contributions, both big and small, within our community. To celebrate these efforts, Pacific Gas and Electric Company and 7x7 started an annual tradition (now in its sixth year) to help shine a spotlight on one stand-out organization by naming it "San Francisco's Favorite Charity."

This holiday season, the top seven local nonprofits gathered at 111 Minna Gallery to rub elbows, raise a glass to their mutual accomplishments, and find out who won the grand prize. 

It's safe to say that this year's competition was the fiercest yet, and the votes were closer than ever, but Variety, the Children’s Charity of Northern California, took home the $10,000 grant grand prize at the end of the night. As a thank you for their unwavering dedication to a greater Bay Area, PG&E awarded a $2,000 grant to each of the remaining six organizations, including Street Soccer Bay Area, JCYC College Access Programs, Blind Babies Foundation, Upwardly Global, The Bread Project, and Minds Matter SF. A huge congratulations to Variety and the six other nonprofits!

After the winner was announced, guests celebrated by dancing the night away toDJ Mackswell’s stylish beats and nibbling on bites from BiRite Market. We'd like to extend a very special thank you to our friends at PG&E, who helped make this marvelous night possible. 

You know a local charity in need of some love? Check back next year, when we'll be honoring another round of local charities. 

If you’re going to be doing any of your holiday shopping downtown this year, you’re going to need some fuel to survive the bag-totin' crowds. Here are a few places where you can grab a bite to eat, plus ideas on where you can find some holiday cheer to keep you feeling good about people.

Hotel G's Klyde Café & Wine Bar 

This new all-day American café has you covered. There’s an extensive breakfast menu, ranging from egg sandwiches to Benedicts to pancakes and waffles, while lunch has salads, burgers, sandwiches, and baked ziti to get you through the day (and night—they serve an affordable dinner too). And, wine. // 386 Geary St, klydesf.com

Gaspar Brasserie

Have you had a chance to check out the stylish Gaspar yet? There are two bars (upstairs and downstairs) that can furnish you with a Champagne cocktail and more. Festive! Lunch is served Monday–Friday, there’s a bar menu that starts at 3pm, and dinner is served every night but Friday. // 185 Sutter St., gasparbrasserie.com

Holiday Tea at The Westin St. Francis

For a festive bite, you can always hit up one of the holiday teas on Union Square. Through December 21st, the St. Francis will be hosting a holiday tea on Saturdays and Sundays from 2–4pm. Choose leaves from Mighty Leaf or Red Blossom Tea Company, followed by a selection of English tea sandwiches, black currant scones, and seasonal berries with Devonshire-blend cream, preserves, and assorted petit fours. Guests may also choose the Royal Tea, which includes a glass of sparkling wine. $45 for the complete tea; $49 for the Royal Tea; $25 for children 12 and under for regular tea. Reservations are required: 415-774-0264. And don’t miss a peek at the St. Francis gingerbread house! // 335 Powell St., westinstfrancis.com

Tea Under the Tree at The Sir Francis Drake Hotel

This tea is a handy one, because it’s served Fridays–Sundays through December 14, and then from December 19–23, it’s served daily! Hours are 1–4pm, and the tea sets include items like tea sandwiches (smoked salmon, roast beef, egg salad), tea breads, petit fours, mini fruit tartlets, and more. $75 per adult (which includes a glass of bubbles) and $45 per child (which includes a gingerbread cookie for decorating). Reservations encouraged: 415-392-7775. // 450 Powell St., sirfrancisdrake.com