Hello, perfect summer Friday!
EATING
My sun-dried tomato corn chowder with crispy goat cheese croutons is heavenly and a true summer favorite. The combination of sweet corn, savory tomatoes, and crunchy cheesy croutons makes it a light but satisfying dish for warm evenings.
DRINKING
For drinks, I love a spicy watermelon sangria alongside a refreshing Cajun peach lemonade. Both are bright, fruity, and perfect for backyard gatherings or slow afternoons on the porch.
MAKING
We had my favorite summer rotisserie chicken salad for the Fourth of July and I fell in love with it all over again. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs and bright flavors—ideal for summer picnics and cookouts.
BAKING
For baking this season I’ve been making strawberry basil focaccia and caramelized peach lavender scones. The focaccia is tender and aromatic, while the scones balance sweet peaches with a hint of floral lavender—both are wonderfully summery.
GRILLING
On the grill, I’m all about vegetable and halloumi skewers as well as smoky grilled chicken pita flatbreads with creamy feta. The halloumi gets a fantastic char, and the smoky chicken pitas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
CRAVING
I’m craving no-churn coffee Oreo ice cream and still haven’t made it—maybe this Sunday I’ll finally get around to a batch. It’s rich, coffee-forward, and exactly the kind of dessert that hits during summer.
READING
I just started The Bodyguard, which I received from my book-of-the-month club for July. It’s a treat to get new reads in the mail, and book subscriptions remain one of my favorite ways to discover fresh stories.
LISTENING
This weekend is special, so I’ve been listening to a couple of favorite playlists: our wedding weekend mix and a long-loved wedding shower party playlist that never fails to get everyone dancing. Both sets of songs are great for celebrating and reminiscing.
SHARING
The Instagram project TIBAL has launched an inspiring Clear The List campaign to support teachers by fulfilling items they need for the school year. The shared list is extensive but searchable by town or city, making it easy to find local teachers to help. Even donating a few items can make a big difference—I cleared two lists already and plan to do more this weekend.
LOVING
I’ve been enjoying Sharon Says So—her Instagram is excellent, and her podcast is especially compelling. She’s released a new series called Momentum that traces how small, everyday acts built toward major change during the Civil Rights movement; listening in order gives the series real momentum and perspective.
WEARING
I know I rave about these a lot, but right now I’m living in Oofos flip flops. They’re surprisingly supportive and comfortable for standing in the kitchen or being on your feet all day—practical and cushy.
SHOPPING
I recently shared favorites from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. The selection can feel repetitive year to year, but that means many tried-and-true pieces return, so my roundup includes in-depth reviews. One standout gift I’ve recommended again and again is the Aura digital frame—an especially thoughtful present that’s consistently well received.
WATCHING
There are several new short videos I’ve posted that capture seasonal recipes and drinks: a fresh green bean salad, pickled blueberry burrata, frozen watermelon mojitos, summer salmon tacos, and a bright summer couscous salad. They’re quick, fun ideas for easy entertaining.
TRAVELING
This weekend we’re heading to Columbus, Ohio, for a very special celebration and a chance to gather with family.
CELEBRATING
My cousin is getting married, and we couldn’t be more excited. It promises to be a joyful weekend full of love, good food, and time with family and friends.
