Hello summer Friday!
EATING
We’re all about melon right now. Watermelon wedges with blue cheese are a house favorite, and cantaloupe prosciutto skewers with lemon-mint pesto are perfect for warm days. Both are light, bright, and effortless to throw together when you want something fresh and seasonal.
DRINKING
Pinot grigio peach sangria has been on repeat lately. It’s super refreshing and balances ripe summer fruit with a crisp wine base—ideal for backyard hangs or a relaxed brunch.
MAKING
For lunch, BBQ shrimp avocado toast has been a go-to: smoky, tangy shrimp paired with creamy avocado makes for a quick, satisfying meal. I’m also loving peach burrata panzanella—juicy peaches, torn bread, and creamy burrata make a beautiful, summery salad.
BAKING
Chocolate zucchini cake with chocolate cream cheese icing is the kind of treat I can’t resist. It’s rich but moist from the zucchini, and the chocolate cream cheese frosting takes it over the top.
GRILLING
Crispy prosciutto with charred corn and arugula has been a staple lately—corn is finally at its peak here. I’ve also been craving grilled guacamole, which brings a smoky depth to an already classic snack.
CRAVING
Vodka sauce pizza has been stuck in my head. I can’t stop thinking about creamy, tangy sauces either—especially the creamy broccoli shells and cheese that feels like a comforting, grown-up twist on mac and cheese.
LISTENING
New playlist: Midsummer Nights. It’s the soundtrack for slow evenings, poolside lounging, and sunset drives.
READING
I’m starting Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow today. It’s on my reading list—has anyone else picked it up yet?
LOVING
My kids are obsessed with water balloons, but the cleanup is a nightmare. I found reusable water balloons and they’ve been a hit. They’re not exactly the same as single-use balloons, but they’re fun and much easier to manage—our kids played outside with them for over an hour last night.
SHOPPING
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is open to everyone, and I’ve rounded up favorites I own and recommend. Top picks include a digital photo frame, a versatile stroller, a cozy Barefoot Dreams blanket, super-comfy pajamas, and a simple human mirror—each one makes a great gift. I’m also loving summer MZ Wallace prints and use those bags constantly; the palm print, white holographic, and neutral patchwork options are stunning.
WEARING
I found an Amazon version of my favorite Lulu top and ordered it in black—looks like there’s a whole line of similar pieces. I’m curious to see how they compare to the originals and will report back.
LEARNING
I’ve been listening to a podcast episode on a midsummer pep talk and taking notes. It’s one of those listens that leaves you motivated and ready to tackle the rest of the season.
SHARING
There’s a brand-new recipe on my Instagram: grilled salmon with summer ravioli. It’s a simple, elegant dinner idea that highlights peak-season ingredients.
CLEARING
TIBAL’s “clear the list” campaign for teachers is live, and they’ve compiled a large document of teachers’ lists. Use Command-F to search for local teachers or shop any list you’d like—this is a great way to support educators with items they actually need.
TRAVELING
We’re headed to Cleveland this weekend. It feels like summer is flying by—trying to soak up as much as possible before the season changes.
CELEBRATING
We celebrated my niece’s 5th birthday—hard to believe she’s already five. Time really does move fast when you’re making memories.
