The Little Things (vol. 1)

HAPPY SUMMER! There is just about nothing sweeter than this time of year. Whenever this season rolls around, I immediately crave things that are just a little lighter. I’m swapping my thriller books for romances and dramas for rom-coms and hearty stews for fruit salads.

On the blog this summer, I want to provide you some content that is also just a little lighter. SO! For the next handful of months, I’ll be sending you a newsletter called The Little Things.

This newsletter will be your ten minute or less downlow on what is new and interesting and worth checking out over your summer break. I’ll be giving you links to click, articles to read, products to stock up, recipes to add to your rotation and whatever else I think you need to know as we jump into summer. Sign up along the side of this page on my blog, or at the tab at the top that says “The Little Things Summer Newsletter Sign-up” to make sure you don’t miss an addition.

You’ll get an emailed version of the newsletter dropped right into your inbox, but they’ll also be posted on the blog if you prefer to read there.

If you have enjoyed emailed devotionals in the past, please do me a big favor and share the sign up link with your people. Let’s get started!!!

To Watch 

Always Be My Maybe
    This is Netflix’s new rom-com! Big thanks to Netflix for doing the important work of bringing back the rom-com. We are so grateful.
Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
    I don’t have enough words to tell you how much I love this show. I CANNOT binge TV. I’ve never been able to do it. But this, I binged in a week. I have things that make me too sad and I love to laugh but also get a great story. This show checked all my boxes. Stream it on Amazon Prime.
Amazing Race
    Ben and I watch this before bed. It’s easy to watch, not hard to follow and the people are weirdos this season. You’ll love it.
Final Table
    I know TV is engrossing for me when I can watch it on the treadmill and think more about what is happening in the show than my own misery. I absolutely loved this. Stream it on Netflix.
Aladdin
    I was worried I would hate it. Honestly, The Nutcracker is one of my favorite things in this world and the Disney movie was awful. So I was really worried this would mess this up...but guys! This made my heart feel like it was in Disney World. That’s the highest praise I know. Go see it in the best theater in your town.

To Listen

Crime Junkie (Podcast)
    This is creepy, but not too much, and weirdly funny. Perfect for a long road trip where you need your mind occupied.
The Popcast (Podcast)
    I promise this will be the last time I recommend this absolutely hilarious pop-culture podcast. But it’s my very favorite. I don’t want you to miss it.
Groceries with a Beat (Playlist)
     This is for exactly what it says. Listen to it when you grocery shop. It sparks joy.     
Jazz Disney
    Since Ben and I got back from Disney in March, I miss it constantly so playing this in the background is the perfect peaceful way to get my Disney fix.
Johnny Swim’s Moonlight
    Just as perfect as ever. My favorite band put out an incredible new album.

To Read

The River
    This is supposed to be THE book of the summer. It’s a nature survival/thriller book. I’m halfway through but I’m HOOKED. It’s un-put-downable.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
    Speaking of Netflix and the rom-com. Read this frothy sweet book and then host a movie night with your girlfriends. Just ideal for summer reading.
Real Simple
    I have a subscription to this magazine and I think it might be the perfect pool/beach magazine. It has actually good content but enough easy stuff to make it easy reading.
Uncomplicated
    I’ve been cooking from this like crazy! This cookbook is great for making cooking a part of your lifestyle.
20 Best Patios in Columbus
    If you live in Cbus, this is important. Ben and I are slowly working my way through them all this summer.

To Eat

Cauliflower Curry
    I’ve been eating this for lunch AND dinner. I’m doing all I can to cut down on carbs and this is a full meal without all the bad stuff.
Shortcakes
    It’s all about fast this summer. This dessert comes together in 30 minutes, keeps well, and is ideal for entertaining.
Ricotta Zucchini Boats
    Speaking of keeping those carbs low, check out this perfect meal prep pick.

To Buy

S’mores Low-Cal Cold Brew (My Go-To Starbucks Order)
    My go-to Starbucks order is crazy seasonal. This order has less than 100 calories and still feels like such a treat. Order it just like this: Grande cold brew with non-fat milk, one pump of marshmallow, one pump of mocha, cold foam made with sugar-free vanilla and a light mocha drizzle. You’re welcome.
White Earrings
    A perfect accompaniment to any light summery outfit, these are felt backed so they are a hundred times lighter than they look and go with everything.

Blue Light Glasses
    My sweet friend Lexi stumbled across this first and I was so obsessed that I immediately bought them. Perfect for long days working at the computer or for movie nights.
Affordable Summer Sheets
These are dream. Lightweight, cheap, but just so cozy -- they feel like hotel sheets in the best way.    
Crescent Horn Necklace
    I am a big believer that yes, you should try a trend, but no, you should not spend an arm and a leg on it. This is perfect for trying out this accessory trend but sticking to your budget.