Monthly Musings No. 8
The toothbrush I'm obsessed with, a wild trolley night with neighbors, and back-to-school in our house...
August always feels a little bittersweet.
August is such a weird month, isn’t it? I’m eager to get back into a routine and get the kids settled into their new schools. But at the same time, I’m yearning for the slow days of summer to never end. It’s that in-between feeling of part excitement, part nostalgia.
Our kids started school last week, and as I mentioned in this post, we’re navigating two brand-new schools this year. Lots of big transitions are happening over here, but I’m so proud of these resilient little humans!
In between the school supply runs and back-to-school prep, we made the most of our weekends. One highlight was our end-of-summer trolley with all the other parents in our neighborhood.
Twenty of us loaded up a trolley and jammed out to music as we visited some of our favorite haunts from our pre-kid days. Think: lots of dancing, champagne, and joyful shenanigans. I love our neighborhood gang so much!
We also managed to sneak in a quick trip to my dad’s house in Beverly Shores. He lives right on Lake Michigan, and the kids had a blast playing on the beach and on his boat. It was the perfect way to close out summer.
On the work front, I’m gearing up to be back on the blog right after Labor Day! I’ve got some new tutorials in the works, and we’re officially starting on our mudroom built-ins design. I’m so excited about this one…it’s going to be so good.
And finally… holiday gift guide prep is in full swing! I know it sounds early (and it is), but it takes a long time to design, source, and create something special. This year’s theme? A high school yearbook! I’ve been flipping through our old yearbooks for inspiration and having way too much fun with it. The guide drops in early November, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
CREATIVE
Such a cute kid’s activity. Rory would love this!
AESTHETIC
A new-to-me brand, Suri, sent me their toothbrush to try—wow, I’m a fan. I’ve always used a Sonicare, but this one is so much more aesthetically pleasing. Plus, it comes with a case that automatically disinfects the entire brush. I think it might be a good fit for the holiday gift guide.
I also upgraded Ellis’ bedding to this honeycomb duvet. He had a comforter before, but after six months, I realized I’m just not a comforter person. Duvets feel so much fluffier and comfier to me! I grabbed him some new sheets while I was at it, too.
STYLISH
Back-to-school shopping is officially done! Rory picked out this blue backpack and matching lunchbox, and Ellis went with a Hot Wheels set. We’ve always used State bags, and the quality is top-notch. I love how easy it is to add their names or monograms.
Also… did you know Rothy’s sells kids’ shoes?! (Where have I been?) I grabbed a pair for Rory and love that they’re machine washable. A must when you’ve got kiddos.
Ellis’ birthday is just around the corner, and Finn got him the cutest little fall jacket. I cannot wait to see him rocking this corduroy.
ENTERTAINING
Last month, I mentioned how much I loved Jo Piazza’s new book. It inspired me to read her previous novel, The Sicilian Inheritance, and I think I liked it even more!
Also, exciting news: Jo recently interviewed me for her podcast, Under The Influence! You can listen to it here. It was so much fun!
I’ve been swapping TV time for reading before bed lately, and it’s helped me sleep better, especially when I take this melatonin about an hour before bedtime.
On my nightstand right now? Parenting books (because… this season of life). I recently re-read How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk. Always a classic. Then I picked up their follow-up, Siblings Without Rivalry…so helpful for navigating life with two kids who love each other, but fight like crazy. Highly recommend!
YUMMY
Back in early summer, I vowed to cook a new recipe every week. Big fail. I’m hoping to get into a better groove this fall, but I need your help. I’m not a cook (at all) and find recipes super intimidating. What are your favorite easy weeknight meals that the whole family loves? Share them in the comments, please!
Okay, I could maybe make this Greek dip. Looks tasty!
One thing I have been making (ha!) is espresso martinis when my girlfriends come over. Finn got this new cocktail shaker, and it’s so good. Many of our old ones would get stuck together when they get too cold, but this one doesn’t! Highly recommend if you like a good cocktail, as we do.
This month’s community spotlight is all about unexpected pivots and following your creative spark…
Meet Heather from Hello Malo Jewelry
In 2017, Heather signed up for a metalsmithing class on a whim…and it completely changed her life! What started as a hobby turned into Hello Malo, a handmade jewelry brand that now supports her family and fuels her creative soul.
Named after her maiden name, “Malo,” the brand is personal, meaningful, and full of heart. Heather’s pieces are modern, wearable, and made to last, just like the women who wear them. This necklace made me LOL, and this necklace is so sweet for the mamas out there!
P.S. Know a woman doing extraordinary things? Nominate them here or fill it out for your own amazing business!
I’m restarting the “DIY on the Fly” series in September. If you have a tricky spot in your home and need some advice, fill out this form. I help a few followers a month, and it’s totally free!
2 methods to put on a duvet cover (which one do you do?!)
Ask Casey: choosing our kids’ schools, adding onto our house, and more
One more thing to note…Your Home Playbook (my digital guide to keep your home running smoothly!) is on sale this weekend. Use code FALL25 for 25% off. That’s the biggest discount I offer, so I hope some of you take advantage of the deal!
Have a great holiday weekend, friends!
Protein Bowls. ~equal parts: Ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning. Cut sweet potatoes into small cubes and roast in the oven (400 for 35min, stir after 10 min). Cottage cheese. Mix all 3.
The trolley ride with 20 of your neighbors sounds like it was awesome! What a unique night and I'll be SO much fun!