The Girls by Emma Cline is easily one of the most buzzed about books of the summer. I bought it a few weeks ago and finally cracked it open on our family vacation.
The story centers around Evie, who is drawn into a cult in the late 60’s. Inspired by Charles Manson and the murders his followers committed, the depiction of life on “the ranch” is chilling. The author moves between Evie’s perspective as an adult and as a fourteen year old.
This simple, 5-ingredient dish works best with peak season produce, so you should probably make it soon. Here, tomatoes and watermelon are plated together with a faint sprinkle of salt and pepper. Then, they’re topped with feta and a drizzle of arugula oil, which sounds fancy, but comes together in minutes.
Personally, I think this colorful salad would be perfect for a late summer dinner with your best girl friends. You could start with prosciutto and melon as an appetizer and then, for the main event, serve this salad with grilled chicken. I’d finish this light meal with chocolate bark and strawberries. Sounds perfect, right?
Or, you can always just eat this with your preschooler like I did and wait for them to declare they don’t want to eat the “green parts.” Either way, it’s still really good.
This weekend, we hunted for fairies, and while we didn’t see any, Ellie would let you know we saw their houses.
I’ve gotten a few beauty products recently that work as well now as they will into fall.
For starters, I picked up this barely there lip tint from the Estee Edit line at Sephora (shown on the far left). This cocobalm is moisturizing, the packaging is gorgeous, and the sheer berry hue gives your lips a little oomph.
Some friends and I did a white elephant beauty exchange a few weekends ago. I came away with this magic, lip gloss plumper from Buxom in Dolly. The color is slightly pink, but still neutral – great for day or night.
Last, but certainly not least, is this eye shadow palette from Smashbox. The colors are long-lasting and versatile. I’ve been wearing it non-stop and love that all of the shades are matte (no shimmer), which means I can wear them to work without feeling disco fancy (save that for girls night).
When I was a kid, we would go out for Italian as a family whenever we were out of town. Often, my parents would get the tomato basil pasta. (Like every time)
So, in honor of tomato season, I decided to try my hand at my own version.
With peak season ingredients, the sauce doesn’t need much more than tomatoes, garlic and shallot.
Ready in around 20 minutes, make this one tonight.
So, I have beets for you today, which I’m sure is disappointing for many of you, but please, hear me out.
These beets are peeled and sliced thinly. Then, roasted in a hot oven. They’re served with a drizzle of honey and sprinkling of goat cheese. The combination is addictive. Really. I swear.
Here’s some proof:
These made Ellie give up her hatred of beets (well, at least the golden variety – red ones are still not tolerated).
Not enough? Well, if it helps, I was first served this dish about two years ago, and every time I pass beets I want to make this.
Give it a try and thank me later.
Like many 30-something mothers, it can take me a while to hit up the new hot spots in Kansas City. And while I’m far from the first to get there, I still love discovering great places to shop and eat. In this blog series, I’m sharing some of my favorite new-ish spots in KC.
Bob Wasabi Kitchen – This sushi spot is so good. It’s usually packed, but service is attentive and swift. Try the poke bowl. You won’t be disappointed.
Doughnut Lounge – Let me start by saying the service here is wonderful. Everyone that works there is so friendly. It’s as well-suited to a Sunday trip with little ones as it is for happy hour with your favorite girls. (Also, the donut selection is legit. S’mores!)
The Rockhill Grille – My friends and I had a little staycation a few weeks ago, and we swung into the new Rockhill Grille for drinks one evening. Located where the Cashew used to be, this renovated spot is seriously gorgeous. While it was fun for a girls’ night out, it would actually be a very romantic place for date night. I’ve been referring to the decor as “sexy Hamptons,” which I’m pretty sure is a thing.
So, this past year, I switched to a heavier duty mascara, and while I’m obsessed with it, Ponds Cold Cream was about the only thing that would take it off.
In the winter, that’s great, because my skin is typically dry and could use the extra moisture, but when summer rolls around, it’s not ideal.
I knew there were eye make-up removers on the market I could use in tandem with another cleanser, but that sounded like a lot of work. I really wanted an all-in-one to be sure I’d actually use it. You can imagine my delight when I heard* of Micellar Cleansing Water by Garnier Fructis. Basically, it’s powerful, but is really gentle on your skin. I love how quickly I can wipe off the day’s make-up with just a few swipes. It even gets rid of my stubborn mascara. (Did I mention it’s under $10?)
Have you tried micellar water? What did you think?
*I read it is “beloved by French make-up artists.” Is that true? Either way, it got me to try it.
Yep, that’s steak.
It’s so good that if you make it men and women will weep at your feet.
Plus, since it’s flank steak, as opposed to a more expensive cut, it won’t break the bank and can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
So, grab a box of kleenex, and let’s get cooking.
