Hello, perfect summer Friday!
EATING
Favorites on my summer menu include old bay crab mac and cheese, peach bruschetta, and a bright stone fruit couscous salad. These dishes are easy to make, full of seasonal flavor, and great for sharing.
DRINKING
For cocktails I’m loving a summer tequila fruit punch and the classic orange crush—both are refreshing and pair perfectly with warm weather gatherings.
MAKING
I keep returning to my BLT chopped salad with feta, corn, and avocado. It’s an older recipe but consistently popular for good reason: fresh ingredients, great texture, and simple prep.
BAKING
On the sweet side, I’m into a triple berry cream cheese coffee cake and a summertime tomato pie. Both are crowd-pleasers that highlight seasonal produce.
CRAVING
Right now I’m craving an Oreo peanut butter pie and chimichurri cheese fries—decadent, comforting, and totally satisfying.
GRILLING
Grilling season means vegetable orzo salad, smoky grilled chicken nachos, marinated grilled peppers with burrata, and whole grilled sweet potatoes. These dishes are perfect for backyard meals and potlucks.
LISTENING
I’ve been listening to a summer “pool nights” playlist that sets the ideal mood for long afternoons and warm evenings.
READING
I’m starting Jackpot Summer this weekend. If you need ideas, there’s a curated summer reading list with more picks to explore.
WEARING
My go-to pieces lately are a comfortable maxi dress I’ve been wearing on repeat and a matching shorts set that looks and feels like a pricier version—both are easy, breezy choices for summer days.
SHOPPING
I recently bought another Tineco mop as a gift because it’s been a game changer for keeping floors clean. I’ve also picked up cooling towels and individually wrapped deodorant wipes to keep in our summer bag—small things that make hot days more comfortable.
SHARING
I assembled a few summer essentials and a kids’ favorites list. Some highlights I recommend are a practical jumpsuit, durable stone coasters for the deck, frozen double-walled glasses, and a pair of sunglasses I’ve loved for years.
LOVING
If you have kids, a Turkish towel is indispensable: thin, lightweight, rolls up small, and dries incredibly fast. I’ve used one for years and recently stocked a six-pack for convenience. I also keep returning to a Longchamp Le Pliage tote—especially helpful with kids because it zips, carries a lot, and is incredibly durable. I own the giant version for travel and a smaller size for everyday use; they’re worth the investment for longevity.
CELEBRATING
We’re still in full-on 4th of July mode here—celebrating the weekend with festive food and activities.
