447: Nine Favorite Things.

Looking at my calendar and realizing this is the last Sunday of July feels a little crazy. I know we all say it every year, but somehow summer has flown by.

Personally, I already have one foot in fall. It’s a funny balance when your job requires you to work so far ahead of the seasons. While I’m still soaking up summer recipes and sunny evenings, my mind is also filled with back-to-school dinners, Halloween, and even Thanksgiving. Our busiest season of the year is just around the corner.

And honestly? I’m excited. Fall has always been my favorite season. It holds so many of my favorite traditions and holidays. You all know I’m such a holiday girl.

This year feels a little different, though. I’m still figuring out exactly where life is taking me next. I haven’t shared much because, truthfully, I don’t have all the answers yet.

I’m loving life in Miami. It already feels like home in so many ways. But at the same time, my Pinterest boards are overflowing with charming Connecticut towns, fiery fall leaves, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and cozy New England streets. It reminds me so much of growing up in Ohio, and lately I’ve found myself craving that feeling again. I’d also love to spend more time exploring New York City. Sometimes your heart gets pulled in more than one direction, and I have a feeling many of you know exactly what that feels like.

Then there’s the home and life I’ve built in Colorado. It’s all a work in progress, and for now we’re simply taking everything one step at a time.

One thing I’m learning is that not every season of life comes with a clear plan. Sometimes you have to trust that the next chapter will unfold when it’s supposed to. That’s the mindset I’m carrying into this week. I don’t need every answer today. I just want to stay present and enjoy the little moments instead of worrying about what’s next.

So I’m soaking up these last days of July here in Miami with my family. I’m sure there will be plenty of homemade dinners, hopefully a few sunset walks with my mom, and whatever little adventures the week decides to bring.

I’ll also be sharing lots more summer recipes over the next few weeks, along with a big roundup of back-to-school dinners, plenty of ways to make the most of peak summer produce, and lots of fun stories along the way.

What are you looking forward to this week? Are you squeezing in one last summer vacation, getting ready for back-to-school, or simply enjoying a slower pace?

Growing up, my parents always took us to Cedar Point on the very last day of summer break, and it became one of my favorite family traditions. We had so much fun every single year. Who knows…maybe we’ll sneak in a trip back to Cleveland before the month is over. It’s been a while.

1. Things I’m Loving.

Wearing

I’ve been in Miami all week, so my wardrobe has been about as simple as it gets: athletic shorts, oversized tees, and a rotation of SET Active tops. When it’s this hot, comfort always wins.

When I ordered those Hailey Bieber jeans from Gap last week, I ended up doing what I always do…browsing a little longer and adding these track shorts to my cart too. No regrets! I’ve also been wearing this AYR Practice Tee on repeat. It’s one of those easy pieces that goes with everything.

I’m also loving these Retrograde Track Pants from Vuori. They have travel days written all over them. Vuori continues to be one of my favorite brands for everyday basics that actually hold up.

Even in Miami, I’ve found myself reaching for this Rollneck Knit Sweater when we go out to dinner. I don’t always need it, but it’s the perfect lightweight layer when the air conditioning is freezing. It looks just as cute with jeans as it does with a skirt or thrown over a summer dress.

And with all the fall talk lately, I have to mention that my favorite Mountain Fleece from Dairy Boy is finally back in stock. This is the fleece I reach for every fall. It’s perfect for hikes, apple picking, crisp morning walks, or throwing on before and after a workout.

Speaking of things I can’t stop thinking about…luggage. Is anyone else weirdly obsessed with travel gear? I keep eyeing TUMI bags, but I just can’t decide if they’re actually worth the investment. I genuinely love my Away luggage, so it’s hard to justify spending that much more. For now, I’m trying these compression packing cubes instead. I couldn’t resist the pattern!

If you’ve traveled with TUMI, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Are they really worth the splurge?

Listening To

I listened to a couple of podcasts this week that I really enjoyed.

First was Emma Chamberlain on Building Chamberlain Coffee, Burnout & Walking Away From YouTube. It was honestly such a great conversation. I found myself relating to a lot of what Emma shared, especially when it came to burnout and figuring out what comes next. I really enjoyed hearing her perspective.

If you’re looking for something lighter and travel-focused, listen to The Bosstick Travel and Free Time Playbook. The way they travel is exactly how I think about travel. They really have it down. I found myself mentally taking notes the entire time, and honestly, I kind of want to listen to it again. It was such a fun episode.

Dreaming of Going

For Christmas this year, I’d love to stay at this Italian 1,000-year-old castle in the Dolomites that’s been transformed into a luxury hotel: Castel Badia. It looks absolutely magical.

Last winter we stayed in Livigno, near the Olympic village, so this would be a completely different experience. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be at Christmastime. It’s definitely making its way onto my wish list.

Closer to home, I have to share The Farmstand, a beautiful collaboration between Dairy Boy and Viv’s Veggies. They offer local organic produce, fresh flowers, and so many other seasonal finds. They even have pumpkins already…a little too early for me!

I’m heading to New York soon, and I’d love to make the drive up to Weston, Connecticut, for a visit. I may have to stay an extra day just so I have time to explore both Connecticut and New York.

Around my home

I ordered fresh flowers last week, and they were delivered on Monday. They’ve added so much color to the house, and they’ve made me smile every time I walk into the kitchen.

I ordered three bunches, so I had enough for my bedside table and bathroom too. I almost always have flowers in the kitchen, but I rarely think to put them in the bedroom or bath. It makes such a difference.

Highly recommend treating yourself to fresh flowers if you need a little pick-me-up this week.

Beauty

Have you heard about the reverse hair washing trend? When I first read about it, I thought, wow, that actually makes so much sense.

I have very fine, long hair that tangles so easily after washing. I tried conditioning first, then shampooing, and for me it’s been a total game changer. Paired with a good detangling brush (more affordable option), it takes me about half the time to brush through my hair.

I also have this thickening spray and have been loving it. After getting so many Instagram messages asking about my favorite hair products, I put together a little hair edit of everything I’ve been using lately.

I really want to try this LED Red Light Hair Growth Helmet. It looks a little wild, but I’ve always wanted thicker hair! I love the CurrentBody LED Light Mask, so I think this has to be next on my list.

If you’re shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (you should be!), the TheraFace LED Light Therapy Mask I use and love is $80 off. My favorite HigherDOSE products are on sale too, including the Infrared PEMF Pro Mat and Infrared Sauna Blanket. If you’ve been thinking about either, now’s the time.

I’m about to start using this Daily Hydrating Mineral Body Sunscreen, so I’ll report back soon! I am always looking for sunscreen now. I’m also really excited for the Summer Fridays body care collection to launch. I can’t wait to try their body butter.

The Skinny Confidential Mint Roller, used straight from the freezer, is a complete game changer. It instantly helps calm my skin, reduce puffiness, and bring down inflammation. If you’re looking to de-puff your face and soften the look of fine lines, it’s so good.

Watching

I actually have something this week! I finally watched the Martha Stewart documentary on Netflix, just five or ten minutes each night before bed. Ok, I know, I’m late to the game, but I found it really interesting.

I can’t say I loved it, but I definitely enjoyed learning more about her story. She’s built such an incredible career, and I always find stories like hers inspiring.

From My Kitchen

I randomly picked up these Siete Three Cheese Corn Tortilla Chips, and we all agreed they’re basically Doritos…just better. If you’re a chip lover, definitely give them a try!

I also made my tzatziki bowls this week. It had been a while! I topped them with fresh summer tomatoes tossed in olive oil, garlic (from the farmers market), oregano, a drizzle of balsamic, flaky sea salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.

I also made a huge marinated kale salad with grilled broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. Then I added maple-roasted pumpkin seeds with cayenne and cinnamon. It was so good.

Around My Table

The next few weeks always get me thinking about back-to-school dinners. I start making more casseroles, crockpot meals, and all the classics we love. Pot roast was on our Sunday menu this week, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.

I love making Sunday dinner feel just a little more intentional. A little planning, a few fresh flowers, a couple of candles, and suddenly an ordinary dinner feels special.

This Week’s Little Joy

It’s funny how even during weeks that feel a little off, if you stop and think about it, you can always find the smallest joys. This week, I had so many.

My brother texting me about the noodle bowl he made and how “fire” it was. My cousin sharing a photo of the dates I sent her. Getting caught in a summer rainstorm, waiting it out for ten minutes, and then walking home under blue, sunny skies. And then there was my evening with my new neighborhood friends, Penny Jane and Garret.

Penny Jane and Garret are the sweetest couple. I run into them pretty often on my sunset walks. Last week they gave me the best avocados I’ve ever had, and while we were chatting, I shared a little about what I do. Penny Jane told me she loves to cook and has made Garret three homemade meals a day throughout their entire marriage.

As I walked home that evening, I kept thinking about them. I decided I wanted to give Penny Jane all of my cookbooks.

A few nights later, I quietly left them on their doorstep and continued on my walk.

Not long after, they actually tracked me down.

They pulled their car over beside me, and Penny Jane rolled down the window and said, “We’ve been looking for you!”

Apparently she’d spent part of the evening before walking around the neighborhood hoping she’d run into me. They didn’t know where I lived, but they wanted to thank me.

She told me she’d already read the books cover to cover. She’d learned all about my brothers, my family, and all of the stories behind the recipes. Hearing that meant so much.

Then they shared something even better.

Earlier that day, Garret had gone to the doctor to get the results of a series of heart tests and scans. They’d been preparing themselves for the possibility that he would need another surgery.

Instead, every bit of the news was positive.

No surgery. No bad news. Just relief.

I don’t know if I smiled any bigger all week.

It reminded me how much simple acts of kindness can matter. I gave them a few cookbooks because I thought Penny Jane would enjoy them. In return, I got twenty minutes of conversation I’ll probably remember for a very long time.

Hearing how much she loves cooking, that they still make dinner together every night, and that they still take those evening walks together…it just made me so happy.

Sometimes the smallest moments really do become the biggest joys of the week.

Looking Ahead

A trip to New York…finally! It’s been so long that I’m honestly feeling both excited and a little anxious.

It’s a work trip, but I’m hoping to squeeze in one fun night with a friend too. I’m always trying to find that balance between work and a little play.

2. The Summer Zucchini Recipe Edit.

Blender Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Zucchini Muffins

Simple Chicken Zucchini Alfredo Pasta

Souper Creamy Lemon Butter Cheesy Zucchini Orzo

Spicy Zucchini Ricotta Lasagna

Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake

Spicy Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Involtini

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Zucchini Soup

Easy Apple Butter Zucchini Bread

Thick and Fudgy Zucchini Brownies

3. Home Entertaining Essentials.

food/fun

tabletop/decor

4. Something Fun: What’s your biggest pet peeve?

I try to stay positive, but let’s be honest…sometimes little things are just plain annoying. We all have our pet peeves.

Lately, mine has become home security cameras that announce, “You are currently being recorded.” You can be walking on the other side of the street, minding your own business, and suddenly a loud robot voice starts talking to you. Even Oslo doesn’t get it

We know the cameras are there. Do they really need to announce it too?

Very small problem, I know. What’s your biggest pet peeve?

5. My Week In Photos.

Oh, Miami nights, how I love them!

Creighton made me laugh this week with this comparison of my dad!

Got my hair cut this week. It had been over a year! And then I read all about how a bob makes fine hair look thick. Should I do it?

My cousin Abby is due soon, so I sent her a few boxes of dates from Rancho Meladuco Date Farm. Some research suggests that eating dates during the last few weeks of pregnancy may help support an easier, shorter labor.

These aren’t just any grocery store dates. They’re homegrown, organic, sun-ripened, incredibly fresh, and packed with nutrients. Nothing but the best for her!

I use this sauna blanket for so many reasons. I use this sauna blanket for so many reasons. It helps me unwind at the end of the day, promotes circulation, supports muscle recovery after long days of cooking, and leaves my skin looking healthy and glowing. Plus, sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of regulating temperature and eliminating small amounts of waste.

It’s one of those wellness tools I genuinely believe in because I’ve experienced the benefits firsthand.

I have the PERMF mat in Colorado and both mats are apart of the Nordstrom sale like I talked about above!

Just minutes after I got in from the rain

My new favorite Flamingo Estate soap bar is the Hawaiian Ginger

When your brother in California texts you just to say how fire his noodles and beef turned out, it sure makes me smile inside and out. I love the enthusiasm, and I love that I have so many brothers who share these little moments with me.

Family is everything. If you’re lucky enough to have a big family, stay connected. We’re on opposite ends of the country, but simple texts like these are what make my family so special. And don’t worry…they also drive me completely insane!

And then there’s Creighton. He lands in Miami, and all he can think about is dinner. If I don’t respond right away, I swear he starts to think I’ve forgotten about him. As if I ever could.

The AYR practice tees I love so much.

Fresh flowers! I have been ordering from Fifty Flowers.

I love when you all share the recipes you make with me! It’s so special and so much fun to see how each of you recreates them in your own kitchen.

And I love this appetizer from Quick and Cozy (page 60). I am going to make these this week and top with fresh tomatoes and basil!

This peach burrata salad has to be my most popular every summer. You all make it look so pretty, and I love seeing how you serve it too. So fun!

SO CUTE. I love that some of you are already getting excited for Halloween! And how spooky do these Black Widow Bars look? Frightastic!

I shared the video for the Iced Cinnamon Honey Latte on Instagram this week, and so many of you have been making it!

So many of you have been sharing your Sunday dinners, and I can’t tell you how happy it makes me. I’ve been building this idea in my head all summer about bringing back the feeling of Sunday nights.

Growing up, Sunday dinner always felt different. We had a house full of boys, and I was the only girl. Dinner was usually complete chaos. Most nights, Dad was serving kids, Mom was helping with homework, and my brother Malachi was falling asleep with his face in his bowl of food.

But Sunday nights felt calmer. Mom would make roast chicken, chili, or pot roast, and we’d all slow down just enough to sit around the table together. Sunday Night Football was usually on, followed by Seventh Heaven. Sunday nights always felt warm, comforting, and like the perfect way to end the weekend before a new week began.

I want to bring that feeling back. Just one meal each week where we slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy being together. Especially with back-to-school season right around the corner, it feels like the perfect time to start a simple Sunday tradition.

Keep sharing your Sunday dinners with me. I love seeing them, and you’re inspiring me more than you know.

6. Inspiring Me.

It really is true: only you can make yourself happy. Spend time with the people you love, get outside for a walk, and make time for whatever makes you feel your best. It’s amazing how the simplest things often end up being the secret to a happy life.

7. Favorite Links.

The Summer I Stopped Optimizing Myself, a beautiful reflection piece.

10 ways to slow down time

How to Transform Carbs Into a Gut-Friendly Prebiotic

The Lesser-Known Greek Islands to Add to Your Summer Travel List

Lymphatic Walking Is the Easiest Workout Possible

5 Days in Mallorca and Madrid

How Family Shaped Spain’s Biggest Soccer Stars

A BLUEPRINT FOR: COPENHAGEN

The Best Trader Joe’s Frozen Food Our Editors Always Keep Stocked

17th Annual Customer Choice Awards Winners

The Major Wedding-Planning Trends that will define 2027’s Celebrations I love the flowers, moss, and stationery.

8. August Styles.

white tees and tanks

9. The Dinner Menu.

Monday: Bang Bang Salmon Bowls with Pineapple Slaw

Tuesday: Zucchini Cheddar Chicken Noodle Casserole

Wednesday: Pesto Cheese Zucchini Ravioli with Burst Tomatoes

Thursday: Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto

Friday: Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers with Charred Corn

Saturday: Smashed Burrata with Peaches

Sunday: Peach Sheet Cake with Brown Butter Frosting