I have always loved this day. It is such a joyous celebration of all the people who came before us, all of the dreams they worked so hard to achieve, and the collective spirit we have today. One of the items on our summer bucket list was to take Grey to a water park, so that’s how we’re celebrating! (The last time I was at a water park, I lost my bottoms at the end of a treacherous slide and never went back ?. I’ll be better prepared today!) We’ve got a superfood dip for your fruit salad, a police drama, a phenomenal thriller of a book, and a ton of great finds in the links at the bottom. Happy 4th of July to you!!

Making.

Need a last minute fruit dip for your 4th of July celebration? Grey has the perfect (super easy!) recipe for you to whip up:

Did you know spirulina can help you sleep better? It also can aid in muscle recovery, is packed with antioxidants, and is a wonderful anti-inflammatory! All you need for this one is a tub of coco-whip non-dairy whipped cream, 2 scoops of blue spiruilina, and a swirl of local honey. Blend together and use as a dip for your favorite fruits, or pop it back in the freezer for ice cream! We topped ours with coconut chips and dark chocolate power berries. Enjoy!

Watching.

I had been hearing fantastic things about Bosch and lo and behold – there are seven seasons of it available on amazon prime. We’re only halfway through season 1, but if police dramas/ SVU type shows are your jam, I think you’re going to like it. I have been judging shows lately based on if it holds my interest enough to not open my email and respond to messages – or reach for my “idea book” as Grey calls it, and jot down recipes. I’d say for most of the episode it does, but it lags enough that if you step out to make yourself a tea or grab a snack, it’s likely you haven’t missed a big moment.

Reading.

This is the first book in a while where I was so creeped out I couldn’t sleep ?. I had Jon check and re-check all the doors and felt a bit ridiculous in the morning…but it’s that good. Push yourself through the beginning (which feels a little slow to start) and then hold on to your cozy chair because once it gets going, it doesn’t stop. The pace quickens, the clues start adding up, and you think you know exactly where he’s taking you. But then a shock ending leaves you wondering how you missed it – in the most wondrous way. A phenomenally talented author and an absolutely fantastic summer thriller – 9.4/10⭐️

Listening.

I’m trying to branch out from my usual rotation of podcasts and came across this one just when I needed it. If you start around the 5:45 min mark, there are some particularly impactful gems. PS – what are you listening to this week? I’d be so grateful if you’d share in the comments!

Feeling.

Here are a few of the quotes we saved throughout the week. Which one resonates with you the most?

Trying.

What do we think about Tevas making a comeback? I didn’t love them the first time they were in style, but I have to say, they’re growing on me (and the comfort is next-level good).

The best way to clean outdoor cushions. Mine are overdue!

Grey is so into art lately and we bought him this to foster independent play and get some of his creativity out. They turned out adorable and it is such a fun activity for kids of all ages ?

And since it’s summertime and we’re looking for all the activities to keep him engaged (and have a moment of peace ?) he’s been working hard on this STEM set. 10/10 recommend.

I would wear every one of these new men’s shirts – the prints are fantastic!

Loved this How To Do Anything article.

Will you please make this glorious Half Baked Harvest cake and invite me over for a slice?

My friend Deanna sent me the link for this super-pack of cards with a note that at this price point, it’s a great gift to stock up on – or save to donate later in the year. What a fantastic idea to include in the Toys for Tots drives!

Fun facts to explain the 4th of July to kids (and a great reminder for us!).