Hello summer Friday! xo
EATING
More zucchini lasagna bolognese and bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats. I’m also making a fig burrata caprese now that figs are finally in season. Fresh tomatoes and ripe produce are inspiring lots of simple, bright dishes this time of year.
DRINKING
For drinks I’m rotating a watermelon rosé margarita, a classic Aperol spritz, and—since apple-picking has started locally—an apple cider Prosecco spritz. Light, fruity cocktails feel perfect for late summer evenings.
MAKING
I’ve been making ricotta jam jar appetizers while tomatoes are at their best. They’re an easy, elegant starter that highlight fresh tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and a touch of jam or honey.
BAKING
On the baking front I’m into a stuffed fig focaccia and a peach pistachio puff pastry tart. I’m also daydreaming about a pumpkin sheet cake as the weather hints at the coming season change.
GRILLING
For the grill I love a blackened chicken with watermelon vinaigrette salad, and a summer garden quinoa served with chimichurri flank steak. Both are great for backyard meals when you want something hearty but still bright and seasonal.
CRAVING
I can’t stop thinking about roasted cauliflower with hummus, olives, and feta. The mix of briny, creamy, and toasty flavors is so satisfying and works as a snack, side, or light meal.
LISTENING
I’m putting together a 90s country playlist. I grew up disliking most country music aside from a few exceptions, but over the past decade or so I’ve come around and discovered a lot of songs I love from that era.
READING
I’m in the mood for a thriller this weekend, so I’m starting The Last Housewife tonight. For more titles I’m reading this season, my full summer reading list has lots of recommendations across genres.
SHOPPING
I recently picked up some lightweight, versatile glasses I use for coffee and cocktails and really love their look and feel. Also, if you decorate for fall or Halloween, glitter mini bats are a favorite little accent to stash away for spooky season.
WEARING
I’ve been wearing a new Zella top that’s become a favorite for cooler days—the colors and length are great. I still love my go-to back-in-action top, but the Zella offers a slightly more structured option that I reach for often.
LOVING
The Sharon Says So book club is reopening next week. It’s been one of my favorite summer activities—thoughtful discussion and a sense of community—so I recommend following along if you’re interested in joining.
SHARING
I loved the Armchair Expert episode with R.L. Stine. I devoured Goosebumps and Fear Street as a tween, so it was fascinating to hear him talk about his writing process. At one point he was writing two books a month, which is incredible.
CELEBRATING
Next week marks our final official week of summer break and we have a lot planned. It feels like the season is winding down, and I’d love to create a little end-of-summer ritual to celebrate the last warm days—ideas welcome.
