Here we are for summer Fridays in the heart of summer. We’re doing it! xo
CREATING
Our ideal beach day has evolved since I was seventeen; now it depends a lot on how the kids are doing that morning. Still, I’m curious about your perfect beach day. Growing up, my family would wake up early, ride bikes along the boardwalk, and spend the whole day on the sand—from mid-morning until early evening—only moving to the pool later before dinner. We rarely left the beach and brought everything we might need. I’d listen to playlists on an old MP3 player and sometimes read a book a day. We’d take long walks in the heat and pack all our food and drinks. It felt effortless and perfect.
WAKING
My favorite morning refresher lately is apple cider vinegar with fresh orange juice. I’ve been drinking ACV for over ten years, but recently I enjoy it with half a freshly juiced orange, half water, a few grates of fresh ginger and a squeeze of lemon—over ice. It’s bright and energizing.
DRINKING
We’re heading to Rehoboth this weekend, so I’m all about an orange crush right now. I’m excited to try a grapefruit version too. I’ve also been craving a frozen watermelon-lime agua fresca because it’s so refreshing in the heat. I often forget the variety of mocktails I developed last year while pregnant, and they’re perfect for summer days.
EATING
With the Fourth of July behind us and summer in full swing, I’m focused on easy, quick meals. Favorites right now include a caramelized peach Caprese salad, summer skillet gnocchi, a crispy kale grilled cheese with fried eggs, grilled corn avocado toast, and a summer BBQ quinoa salad. And, of course, heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn are in heavy rotation.
MAKING
If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve likely heard me rave about a triple berry salad I’ve made repeatedly for parties. It’s incredible: light, refreshing, and adaptable—sometimes with feta, other times with goat cheese depending on what’s in the fridge. In a recent heat wave, it’s exactly what I wanted to eat.
LISTENING
Because Lacy and I are road tripping to the beach, we put together a girls’ road trip playlist to sing along to. I also recommend the Maria Shriver episode on Oprah’s Super Soul podcast—it’s one I keep coming back to.
READING
I finished The Perfect Couple this week and ended up loving it—once it pulled me in, I couldn’t put it down. I’m currently reading All We Ever Wanted, and Lacy and I are considering listening to When Life Gives You Lululemons on audiobook during our drive.
BUYING
I’m loving a sports bra with pockets that can hold a key or credit card—so practical. Since we’re heading to the beach, I wanted to share two beach blankets I like: one neon, eye-catching option I’ve used for years and a new waterproof 5×7 outdoor blanket that seems perfect for kids and sandy days. I’ll report back after trying it out.
VISITING
We’re heading to Rehoboth Beach this weekend for an event for The Pretty Dish at Browseabout Books. I’m excited—what are your favorite kid-friendly places to eat there? More importantly, where is the best ice cream? Daily ice cream is a beach requirement for us. I’ve wanted to visit Rehoboth for years and can’t wait to explore.
It’s prime s’mores season—bring on the melty marshmallows.