Monthly Musings No. 6
Kicking off summer with a preschool graduation, backyard hibachi night, and 14 weeks of Invisalign...
Summer is officially in full swing, and we kicked it off with one adorable milestone…Rory’s preschool graduation. Cue all the tears! The entire program had us choked up, and I still can’t believe our little girl is heading to Kindergarten this fall. Where does the time go?
To celebrate the start of summer, we hosted a backyard hibachi night with all of our neighbors, and it was so much fun. We had 15 people and used a company called Hibachi2u. They brought the food, the equipment, and two chefs who cooked everything right in front of us. It was incredible. Let’s just say… the sake was flowing and the laughter was loud!
Book shoots are underway, and I’m loving every minute. It’s been such a joy to be back working with Bridget again. We’re soaking up all the time we have together. There’s still a lot to do to get all the book photos done, but I’m trying to be present and enjoy this creative season.
Last weekend, we escaped to my sister-in-law’s farm for our annual summer visit. This was our sixth year going, and it’s always such a nice reset. No big plans, just swimming, s’mores, and lots of time together. Once the kiddos go to bed, the adults head to the wine cellar for games. It’s a blast!
During the day, I coerced my siblings to create some fun videos with me jumping into the pool. We got everyone to do “Hot To Go,” and my sister and I got really ambitious and spelled out the word “LOVE” with our bodies. It was hilarious (and that “E” took us all afternoon to get). Ha!
In other news…I started Invisalign! And let me tell you, it’s been a journey. My mouth is still pretty sore, and these little trays are no joke. I never had braces growing up—my teeth have always been fairly straight—but I’m getting some cosmetic work done in the fall and needed to get everything perfectly aligned first. I’ve got 12 weeks of trays ahead of me and yes, I’m counting down! I’ll share more about the whole process in a full blog post soon.
CREATIVE
- with 50+ simple ways to romanticize summer. Bring on a slow magical summer.
What a good hack to make a huge piece of art on a budget.
I like this idea to keep track of kids when in a crowded place. We use AirTags inside bracelets, but I like this shoe idea better.
AESTHETIC
The brand Laundry Sauce sent me their laundry detergent pods to try, and wow, I can’t get over how elegant they are. I got the scent “Oregon Mint” and it almost feels like I’m at a spa when I open the box to throw a pod in for laundry. If you want to give them a try, use code DIYPLAYBOOK15 for 15% off.
This body wash is taking my everything showers to the next level. Smells like summer!
STYLISH
After using my belt bag nonstop for the past two years, I got a new purse, and I’m loving it. It’s roomy, but not too big, and makes me feel super stylish!
When I told my mom I bought a few things from Chico’s, she told me my grandma would be proud. Ha! That was her favorite store! But I’m telling ya, the quality is top-notch and they do have some good pieces! I ended up getting two crocheted tops (this one and this one), and they’re lightweight for summer. I also picked up this top in black for an easy summer look with white jeans.
The French brand, Herve Leger, sent me a dress from their new day dress collection. Whoa, I feel so chic and put together. I think this can be my go-to little black dress for work events, funerals, and other occasions. Their items are pricey, but the quality is incredible!
ENTERTAINING
I binged the Netflix series Sirens, and it was a good watch. I’m a big fan of Meghann Fahy (loved her on The Bold Type back in the day!), and it was nice to have a quick series to watch.
Finn got me the book We Can Do Hard Things for Mother’s Day, and I’ve been reading a bit of it each night. I’m a huge fan of their podcast, and the book doesn’t disappoint.
It was so inspiring to see the overwhelming turnout for No Kings Day. My fave substacker
wrote a great piece on what to do now and how to keep fighting.I listened to Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry and thought it made for a light summer read. Not lifechanging in anyway, but a fine beach read.
YUMMY
These cottage cheese pancakes look delish.
This simple summer snack looks insanely good. Plus, a good change up from my kids' constant requests for more Pirate Booty.
10 Chicago patios I plan to visit this summer.
This month’s community spotlight is all about capturing love, connection, and what it means to feel truly safe…
Meet Kira Miller of PhotoAffect Photography
Kira is a talented family photographer based in Eastern Washington, but her work goes far beyond the lens. With a background as a counselor for at-risk teens, Kira brings a deep understanding of what a safe, loving connection looks like, and why it matters so much. She explains:
“My work is deeply informed by my experience as a counselor. I’m driven to capture the sense of protection and love that safe caregivers provide their children and each other. Not every child has a safe haven, and that makes these moments even more meaningful.”
You can check out her work and connect with her online right here.
Each month, I love spotlighting someone from our community who is doing meaningful, heart-filled work. But here’s the thing—I need your help! I’m running low on people to feature, and I know there are so many amazing women-led businesses out there. Fill out this form to be considered!
Why Finn loves his solo stove (& all of the accessories we have)
Have a wonderful weekend, friends!
I love the denim dress in your first photo. Do you have a link for it? Thank you!