What a great run I’ve had with Summer 2022! I took it upon myself to make things as simple as possible for the two months I get for summer break. My sole purpose was to relax and read. Last school year was particularly taxing, and I craved some adventure but mostly just being able to be home and do a whole lot of nothing. I feel confident I met that goal and realize the privilege that comes with being able to do that. Don’t believe a teacher that tells you she’s not in it for the summers off…deep down part of her is. 🙂
Now that it’s all over, I’m reflecting on the things that made it a great summer. And since sharing is caring… Let’s get right to it.
Meet Your Resident Plant Lady
This summer I managed to secure four tomato plants and a lime tree, and while my tomatoes are just about played out, my lime tree is doing so well. I’ve had to battle a few grasshoppers that were eating the leaves of the tree, but other than that, she’s green and growing the most beautiful little limes.
Bottoms Up
Summer means watermelon, my favorite fruit, and watermelon means margaritas. I’ve been making this cocktail for several years, but I always savor each one because I know they’re limited. To make the marg: blend a few cubes of watermelon, lime juice, and tequila and serve over ice. Blend with ice if you want a frozen treat. Sometimes I like to top mine off with a little sparkling water for a bubbly note. Sub in the sparkling water for the tequila to make a delicious mocktail.
I was also introduced to a new cocktail this summer: the Aperol Spritz. I had my first experience with this delightful concoction while dining at Ravello in Montgomery. That next week I secured a bottle of my own aperol and added prosecco. Equal parts of each served over ice will give you another perfect summer cocktail.
Prince Louis at the Platinum Jubilee
Need I say more? I think not. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Pool Hangs
Listen, sometimes a $30 inflatable pool and a $5 pool float is better than the real pool you pay a membership for. I prefer quiet, relaxing, reading time while at the pool and that can only happen at the comfort of your own home. (or in my case, my parents home because their backyard is private and mine isn’t) I don’t plan on giving that one up just yet, though. I foresee a few more pool visits once school starts back.
Fine Dining
Paul and I were so lucky to be invited to a birthday dinner at one of Montgomery’s newest restaurants, Ravello Ristorante. While it’s a bit of a splurge, the food is unlike any I’ve had. The atmosphere, the service, the drinks, the food…seriously, the tiramisu will change your life…it all works perfectly in tandem to create a memorable and satisfying night.
Then at the end of the summer we were invited to Mr. Gus’ Ristorante, also in Montgomery, where we dined on Greek appetizers and Italian entrees. The smell of garlic hits you when you open your car door and immediately gets your mouth watering. The portions are sizable, and the prices are excellent. I can’t believe I’ve never been there before. I want to keep going back and work my way through the menu. I swear it’s that good.
Products Worth Noting
Donna Karen Cashmere Mist Deodorant
I won this deodorant in an Instagram giveaway and wanted to hate it. Honestly, I did, but it has a cult following and now I understand why. I just can’t bring myself to pay for it. Even during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale it was 3 for $70, which is actually a savings, but I just couldn’t. But if you’re curious, it is the most luxurious deodorant I’ve ever used, and it is delightful.
Reflect Effect AHA Facial Smoothing Mask
I’m obsessed with this new-ish product from Beautycounter. My skin feels so smooth and refreshed when I’m finished using it. It only takes 10 minutes to work. It has physical and chemical exfoliants that truly are magical on your skin’s texture and radiance. Give this one an immediate try.
For Your Viewing Pleasure
I watched quite a few things this summer, but these four were the ones that I’d definitely recommend: Anatomy of a Scandal (Netflix), Ozark (Netflix), Top Gun: Maverick (Theaters), and The Summer I Turned Pretty (Amazon).
Books, Books, Books
I set out to read a lot of books this summer, and boy have I ever done some reading. I read from my own shelves, I bought new books, and I even rediscovered the local library. If you’re interested in the books I’ve read this summer, I have a roundup of them here. There were too many to include in this post, so consider this foray back into blogging a twofer.
Life Update
After eleven years in the golf industry, Paul made the decision in July to enter the world of insurance. It’s still early days, but he’s learning everyday and growing new skills. I couldn’t be happier or more proud that he stepped out of his comfort zone to try something new. We have been enjoying having lunch together during the week and having weekends off. In almost 12 years of marriage we’ve never had that. It’s been a blessing of a change.
Bring on Fall
I read that summer is an excellent time of year but the actual season of summer is kind of the worst. I agree with that. The heat is so oppressive, and who needs this much humidity?! While I know it’s going to be a while before the temperatures start to decline, I’m ready for it. In the meantime, school is about to begin. Gosh, I can’t believe it. New students, a routine, alarm clocks (aye yi-yi). But the arrival of school means fall is coming- which means football and soups and sweaters and boots and pumpkin spice latt-…no I’m just kidding. Too soon! I’ll still be enjoying pool days and aperol spritzes and shorts and hopefully a few more books. I sure hope summer was as good to you as it was to me.
