Hello! I have one more week of summer left. But since I started the last blog post with laments about school starting, I’ll leave that topic alone. I did just get back from a quick lake trip with some of my work friends, and we could not have ended the summer in a better way. We know the looming school year is coming with change and challenge, but I am so grateful to have such good friends that I can see on a daily basis.
I have a few more things to share with you before we wrap up summer break. Today I’ll share some things I’m using, reading, watching, eating, drinking, etc. Read on for the rest of my summer favorites.
A New Dry Shampoo
As you may remember, I used to make my own dry shampoo. It’s great, and I still love it. But I was feeling like my hair wasn’t responding to it in the same way. I don’t know what that means, and maybe it was all in my head. Regardless, I’ve been on the hunt for something new, and I think I’ve found it in Pureology. It’s a little pricier than I like to spend, but it works. I like that it’s a spray-in. One of the reasons I was ready for a change with my homemade on was because it was a powder form. I also think the smell is pleasant. I apply it just like I do all dry shampoos- at night before bed and again in the morning if needed. My oil production ramps up overnight, and I think prevention is key for those of us with oily hair. I’ve really enjoyed this one and have repurchased several times.
Stain Remover
Yes, yes, I know this is not a new product, but it is new to me. Discovering this product is actually part of a much longer (and boring) story about the search for a specific stain remover. Here’s the condensed version. Paul and I were using the same deodorant and noticing discoloration in the underarms of our clothes. The deodorant was working and doing it’s job to keep us dry and smelling good, but it was leaving stains on our clothes. It’s been a long process to find the right deodorant- still looking- but I did see someone talking about this product to remove stubborn stains, so I decided to try it. It has worked wonders on some of our clothes. Like, I’m really impressed! I’m trying out another stain remover to use in tandem with the Fels-Naptha, so I’ll let you know if that one works out too. And if you have any good deodorant recommendations, please let me know.
Anti-Aging Regimen
A while back I decided that I might be ready for a more proactive approach to anti-aging skincare. I knew not to look very far and decided to order some samples of the Countertime Regimen. I pretty instantly fell in love with how my skin felt and worked my way through two sample packs. Then the Countertime Carry-On Set launched and I was able to scoop it up. It’ll give me a few more weeks of use so that I can decide if I want to make the investment, because it is an investment. I could say a ton about this collection here, but I will do that after I’ve used it for a while. In the meantime, just know that the regimen is wonderful and makes your skin feel hydrated and smooth. And if you want any more info or to try the samples yourself, let me know and I’ll get one to you ASAP.
Daily Shampoo
I don’t know why I don’t talk about this more. Beautycounter has a very lovely daily shampoo and conditioner. The smell…wow! So good! Plus it’s just like other Beautycounter products-they last for a long time because you only need a little bit. This is a great way to sneak in a safer product for the guys. Most guys don’t so much care what they’re using for shampoo as long as it’s in the shower and available to them. Give it a try! It would be great for your teens, too.
Excellent Workout Tanks
I have discovered a workout tank that I love. It’s loose, it isn’t too hot, and it’s available online in a 2 for $9 deal! These tanks are not long and will not cover your bum. If that’s a concern for you, just wear them with shorts. But if you’re a work out at home girl like I am, you’ll not care that your bum isn’t covered.
New Shoes
It’s been about eight years since I’ve gone shopping for new tennis shoes. I recently with with Paul to pick out a new pair for him and spotted a cute pair of Brooks running shoes on the wall. I slipped them on and felt like I was walking on a cloud. I left them in the store that day, but we recently went back, and I bought them. I truly don’t think I’ve ever worn a more comfortable pair of tennis shoes. Plus they’re really pretty! I went up half a size.
Food and Drink
I think one thing I’ve really learned to enjoy doing this summer is cooking. I’ve tried several new recipes, and most have been successes. Here are some things I’ve really enjoyed cooking, eating, and drinking these past two months.
Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka
I’ll never not make this pasta. The flavors are so perfectly layered. Reheats nicely too.
Creamy Gnocchi Soup with Rosemary Bacon
Delicious, hearty, perfect for a cold, winter night but also holds up in the middle of summer.
Halo Top Fruit Bars
Let’s just say you don’t want an ice cream bar (who doesn’t?) but you want something cold and sweet-ish. These fruit bars really hit the spot.
Ranch Water
To be fair, I’m sure a homemade Ranch Water is 100x better, but since I can’t find Topo Chico in Greenville, these will suffice. I didn’t love the Spicy one. Each sip felt like heartburn, but the original and grapefruit are fantastic! Haven’t found the prickly pear in Greenville yet, either.
More July Reads
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey– This is a book club pick for July, and I went for the audiobook because he reads it. As I’ve stated on my Instagram page plenty of times, I get a little annoyed with over-the-top way he tells stories, BUT the stories are great! It was overall a really good book. One I think that will be enjoyable to everyone- men and women.
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid– Wow! What a story! I really loved this book. The story of the Riva family is all the dysfunctional family drama that I love and ever hoped it to be. Plus factor in there’s a raging out-of-control party and the dad is a famous rock star. Fantastic read!
Listing To
Tyler Childers, Purgatory.</em
Sour by Olivia Rodrigo– I’m probably too old to listen to this album, but it’s very, very good and reminds me of exactly what I would have listened to as a teenager full of angst and emotions. If you haven’t yet, give it a listen.
Tyler Childers– I blame the Yellowstone marathon that was on during the 4th of July weekend. Some of his song are played, and I fell in love with the song Lady May while watching the show.
I’ve got a few more shifts at The Roost and an anniversary to celebrate on deck for this week, so I’m gonna close out summer with plenty of fun. I hope you can squeeze in all the fun, too. Until next time.
