Back for another round of Summer Fridays — here’s what I’m into this weekend, from food and drinks to reading, listening, and shopping. Summer always sparks easy, bright meals and a slower rhythm, so these are the things I’m making, craving, and wearing right now.
EATING
I’m making my chili lime chicken corn pizza for a fresh summer dinner. Pesto lovers will enjoy the baked penne with plenty of bright basil flavor. For a heartier option, I love the summer chicken meatballs with zucchini risotto — comforting but still light.
DRINKING
For something fun and indulgent, try a margarita float. It’s a dreamy, boozy twist on a summer classic that’s perfect for relaxing afternoons or porch gatherings.
MAKING
I’m excited about the crab cake Caesar with Old Bay croutons — a flavorful salad with a coastal twist. Another staple I’m making is a broccoli BLT pasta salad that doubles as a great side or a light main on warm days.
BAKING
For breakfast or a snack, blueberry breakfast cookies are a bright, portable treat. I’m also loving strawberry focaccia — fragrant and slightly sweet, it’s a lovely summer bake to share.
CRAVING
Strawberry season has me all in for no-churn strawberry pie ice cream. It’s the kind of summery dessert that feels celebratory and nostalgic at once.
GRILLING
On the grill, my grilled chicken pasta salad with gorgonzola vinaigrette is such a winner — smoky chicken, tender pasta, and a tangy, creamy dressing that ties it all together.
SNACKING
For casual snacking, sheet pan smashburger fries are ridiculous (in the best way). They’re indulgent, crispy, and perfect for sharing while you relax outside.
READING
I’m currently reading It’s a Love Story and really enjoying it. If you’re looking for more summer reads, check out my summer reading list and my roundup of what I read in May for plenty of recommendations and a range of genres.
LISTENING
I’ve been playing my 2025 summer country playlist on repeat — I make this every spring and it’s become my soundtrack for long drives, backyard hangs, and quiet mornings with coffee.
WEARING
I’m loving Spanx Air Essentials for everyday comfort, and a well-made skort is a summer staple. A soft t-shirt dress is another piece I could practically live in — easy, versatile, and breezy for hot days.
SHOPPING
We’re trying to fill blank walls at home and I keep getting distracted while looking for the right pieces. I bought a few prints for the kids, and ordered some colorful big-cat rainbow prints for Emilia. Finding the perfect art feels like it will take forever, but I’m slowly collecting things that inspire me.
LOVING
Small touches are making a difference: adorable mini lamps, a woven flatware caddy I reach for whenever guests visit, and a woven drink dispenser for summer parties. I also use a scalloped serving bowl daily — it’s both practical and pretty.
BUYING
I’ve been picking up cute summer outfits: lightweight pieces for the beach, a white eyelet skirt for sunny weekends, festive shorts for the 4th of July, and a cozy summer sweater for cooler evenings. An ombre dress is also on rotation for easy, colorful dressing.
SHARING
I put together a large Father’s Day gift guide featuring things Eddie already loves. I usually include a matching swimsuit for him and the kids, some athleisure, and a selection of easy casual summer dresses — practical gifts that are actually used and enjoyed.
