That’s a perfect summer Friday pour. What are your plans for the weekend?
EATING
My summer house salad is a staple right now—packed with fresh garden vegetables and bright flavors. I’m also craving the pistachio pesto pasta salad for an easy, herby side, and lime-loaded shrimp fajitas when I want something with bold citrus notes and a little heat.
DRINKING
I’m obsessed with a cajun peach lemonade at the moment—feel free to spike it if you like. Otherwise, it’s shaping up to be a rosé weekend for me.
MAKING
I’m planning to make beer-battered fish tacos with mango margarita salsa and jalapeño crema. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for summer evenings.
BAKING
Chewy oatmeal chocolate chip zucchini cookies are my current obsession. If you prefer a no-bake treat, salted pretzel s’mores crunch bars are incredible and simple to pull together.
CRAVING
I’ve been dreaming about Shake Shack. We don’t have one nearby, so I recreated their SmokeShack with a cherry pepper bacon cheeseburger version that comes pretty close—definitely worth trying at home.
LISTENING
I’ve been playing a golden hour playlist on repeat. Also, who else is loving the new Taylor Swift album? After one run-through I’m hooked, and the kids immediately recognize her songs—Emilia calls them her favorite.
READING
I’m reading Rodham and enjoying it—especially since American Wife is one of my favorite books. If you haven’t joined our book club yet, there’s still time. Next week we’ll discuss our July pick, Party of Two.
WEARING
Masks are a part of life now. I like the Athleta masks for their fit, though I wish they came in more fun colors. For longer outings I find the breathable paper masks more comfortable. The kids’ masks have been surprisingly popular at our house—fun prints and characters make them excited to wear them, and the ear loops fit well without causing discomfort.
LOVING
I discovered a one-hour meal prep series that I’m loving. My next book includes a lot of meal prep tips and tricks—I’m excited to share it next spring.
SHARING
Have you seen the Hamilton-inspired tribute to Dr. Fauci? It’s brilliant and I can’t stop thinking about it.
SHOPPING
The Nordstrom sale preview is up, and I’m already scanning for basics—kid items, cozy blankets, favorite T-shirts, and pajamas. I usually do a big picks post; would you like me to share one this year despite the unusual circumstances?
xo