Happy summer Friday! Here’s what I’m excited about this weekend.
EATING
I’m obsessed with puff pastry hot dogs right now — they’re shockingly good and perfect for an easy dinner. I’ll also be making my summer BBQ chicken pizza on the grill for a smoky weeknight meal. Cilantro lime salmon with rice is on heavy rotation; it’s light, bright, and simple. For lunch repeats, crispy broccoli and cheese tortilla pizzas are an easy favorite.
DRINKING
Fresh cherry vodka sodas are the best this time of year — the cherries are incredible right now. I’m also sipping my strawberry summer water; it’s subtle, hydrating, and so refreshing on warm afternoons.
MAKING
For salads, I’m making a strawberry balsamic pasta salad that balances sweet and tangy perfectly. I’m also reaching for a summer stone fruit couscous salad — it’s one of my all-time summer staples and full of seasonal flavor.
BAKING
I can’t get enough of lemon almond pudding cake; it’s tender and bright, and always a winner. I’m also itching to make a lavender vanilla latte ice cream for a floral, coffee-infused treat this weekend.
CRAVING
I’m dreaming about hot crab dip with Old Bay crostini — rich, cheesy, and indulgent. Along the same lines, hot lobster dip is another decadent appetizer I’d happily snack on all afternoon.
GRILLING
Grilled buffalo chicken sandwiches are an easy, spicy crowd-pleaser on the grill. I’m also grilling broccoli for a crunchy broccoli salad that pairs perfectly with summer barbecues.
LISTENING
I’ve been playing a Tina Turner–focused playlist on repeat. Her classics are perfect for boosting energy while cooking or doing chores around the house.
READING
Right now I’m reading Jill Shalvis’ The Sweetheart List. For more summer reads, I keep a rotating summer reading list I refer to whenever I’m looking for light, enjoyable books to take to the backyard or beach.
WEARING
This tennis dress has been my go-to — it has a built-in bra and shorts, feels buttery soft, and comes in lots of colors. It’s comfortable enough for a walk or wearing layered under a tee. I’m also loving the Hoka Bondi 8 for support during long walks; it’s hands-down one of the best cushioned walking shoes I’ve worn.
SHOPPING
I’m a sucker for soft, faux vintage sweatshirts. I’ve picked up a few from different brands — some have a nostalgic high-school vibe, others are ultra-soft and modern. They’re cozy staples for cool summer nights and travel days.
LOVING
I’m enjoying Elin Hilderbrand’s new podcast, Books, Beach and Beyond. A recent episode featured Taylor Jenkins Reid and it was a wonderful conversation — perfect for listening while making dinner or driving.
SHARING
A divided snack tray has been indispensable for outdoor snacking with kids — it’s portable and keeps everything tidy. My go-to durable options are the ones with built-in ice packs for keeping dips and cheeses cool, but a simple divided tray works really well for casual gatherings.
CELEBRATING
We have a big family birthday coming up, and I’m gifting another Aura frame. It’s such a meaningful present for close family members — everyone can add and receive photos, and it’s become a favorite in our household for sharing memories easily.
