Summer Fridays is back!
If you’re new here, Summer Fridays is our weekly virtual coffee date where we share what we’re doing, loving, craving, watching and more — a little inspiration for the weekend and a true summer Friday moment. This is the ninth year running, and I’m so happy these posts have returned. They’re light, fun and meant to spark ideas for your weekend.
EATING
On repeat: garlic butter zucchini noodles. I’m also making the grilled jalapeño peach chicken and my summer stuffed shells — all easy, seasonal meals that feel fresh and bright.
DRINKING
My favorite summer cocktail is a rosé Aperol spritz — light, bubbly and perfect for warm evenings.
MAKING
Basil chicken meatballs with summer couscous have been a hit at my house. They’re simple to prepare and great for family dinners.
BAKING
Lemon blueberry cobbler bars are my go-to sweet treat right now. They’re tangy, buttery and bake up perfectly for sharing.
SNACKING
Summer marinated cheese is an easy, shareable snack for weekends with friends. It’s flavorful and effortless to prepare ahead of time.
CRAVING
I’m craving grilled sourdough pizza topped with an Italian chopped salad — a crunchy, savory summer meal I can’t get enough of.
PREPPING
Grilled veggie orzo salad is on regular rotation. It’s great to make ahead because the flavors deepen over time and it’s easy to grab for lunches or picnics.
LISTENING
Playing our Summer Fridays kickoff playlist to set the mood — upbeat, summery tunes that pair perfectly with lazy afternoons and dinner on the patio.
READING
This weekend I’m planning to start Dolly All The Time. I also put together a summer reading list and a complete list of everything I’ve read this year to make it easier to choose your next book.
WEARING
I’ve been living in drapey summer pants and a ruffle performance tank — comfortable yet stylish pieces that work for warm days and casual outings.
BUYING
Matching sets are calling my name. I recently picked up a linen chocolate-brown skirt and coordinating top that I’m obsessed with — easy, polished and breezy for summer.
LOVING
I’m into the New Balance 9060s right now. They’re shockingly comfy — like walking on clouds — and delightfully ugly in the best way. I kind of want matching pairs for the kids.
WRITING
I’ve been writing about summer hosting tips, a 12-week summer dinner plan, a spring capsule kitchen and practical guides for feeding people on beach vacations. Lots of helpful, seasonal content to make hosting and meal planning easier.
SHOPPING
A favorite tee from L.L. Bean has been my go-to, and I’ve been eyeing a sweater tank in multiple colors. Sunglasses are also higher on my summer list — practical and fun to switch up the look.
SHARING
There are many new videos on Instagram — recipes like salmon spaghetti, grilled burrata peppers, jalapeño cheddar broccoli salad and blueberry cucumber salad. Short clips that make these dishes feel easy to try at home.
REFLECTING
I’ve been thinking about the end of another school year and how quickly time passes. Every year I feel the same mix of sadness and excitement — sad the kids are growing up and leaving beloved teachers, but excited for summer and the slower days ahead.
