My Mid-Summer Check-In

Writing a book, wrangling two kids, planning photo shoots—and somehow still finding time for pizza nights and poolside vibes.

Hi friends. It’s mid-July, the sun is shining, and I thought it would be the perfect time to pop in with a little summer update.

The last two summers? Totally different vibes.

Two years ago, I hit a wall. Burnout. Hard. I had just returned from Italy, couldn't sleep (insomnia was terrifying), and I needed to press pause. I did a whole lot of nothing that summer, and it was everything I needed. Truly, that rest brought me back to life. I came back refreshed and with a new mindset to work smarter, not harder.

Last summer, I took another kind of break…a hybrid one. I was still posting here and there (thanks to my amazing affiliate manager who helped me keep things going behind the scenes), but I gave myself lots of space. It felt good.

Writing & Shooting The Book!

This summer? Ohhh, this summer is a totally different beast. Because…I’m writing a BOOK.

Some of you have even DM’d me to check in (you sweet souls) like, “Hey, I know this is usually your off-season just want to make sure you’re doing okay.” First of all, I love you. That means more than you know. It reminds me how kind and thoughtful this community is. Truly, the best people.

And yes, I’m actually doing really well! I went into this giant, life-changing project with a clear head and a full heart. It’s 70,000 words. Thousands of photos. Dozens of tutorials. It’s a lot. But instead of feeling crushed by it, I’ve felt energized.

I’m organized (you know I love a good system), I’m taking care of myself, and I’m so in it.

We planned 15 full shoot days across June and July. It’s been wild, but in the best way. There’s music playing, we break for lunch, and we’ve got the best intern ever, Maddie. She’s 20 and a complete joy. She keeps us laughing and keeps us current (because let’s be honest, I had no idea what “rizz” or “gagged” meant before this summer).

Our little girl squad making it happen!

Prepping for these shoots is no joke. I’ll link the post about using a stylist, which was a game-changer for outfits. But beyond clothes, I’ve been juggling allll the supplies…paint, tools, props, you name it. I’m like a one-woman production studio over here.

When I’m not shooting, I’m writing. Each chapter covers a month (Your Home Playbook is structured seasonally), and I’ve been knocking out about a chapter a week. I’m about two-thirds done, and I will hit my November 1st deadline. Mark my words.

I’ve also been writing these Substack posts during the quieter days, and honestly? It’s my little happy place. I’m writing this one poolside at my gym. There’s a water aerobics class happening in front of me, and I’m here on a lounge chair, typing away. Bliss.

This summer still feels more relaxed than my usual pace. I’m sneaking in workouts, soaking up pool time, hanging out with friends, and enjoying long summer nights.

Camp & Preschool for The Kiddos

Now onto family life. Rory is in full-on summer camp mode. Every week it’s something new. Indoor skiing! Bike camp (she ditched the training wheels!). And now she’s in an art and science camp and loving it.

Ellis will be leaving his daycare preschool next month and is gearing up to go to a neighborhood preschool this fall. We have a lot to catch up on regarding the kids’ schools, as we’re making some changes next month. Lots of kid logistics are happening behind the scenes.

Busy Social Calendar

Rory snapped the photo on the left before a wine tasting with friends // We had a picnic at the Kygo concert at Ravinia. It was a dreamy date night!

In between all of it, we’re really leaning into summer. Pool days just about every weekend. Friday night pizza and movie nights with neighborhood friends. Backyard hangs with cocktails for the adults and popcorn for the kids. I even did a backyard makeover for my neighbor, which was a lot of fun. And last weekend we had our street’s block party.

Our social calendar is busy in the best way.

This has been a really joyful season. A full season, yes. But one I’m soaking up as much as I can. I’m usually ready to get back into a routine by fall, but right now? I’m loving this loose, messy, flexible summer life.

Oh, and my college besties are coming into town for the weekend. So be sure to tune into our shenanigans over on Instagram stories. Can’t wait for allll the girl time!

Fave Items This Week

• I’ve been wearing these lounge pants nonstop and get so many compliments on them. Plus, they’re so incredibly comfortable.

• I pre-ordered these sandals back in May and they finally just arrived. Worth the wait!

• This may seem random, but I’ve been looking for an aesthetic looking disposable wipes dispenser for awhile to keep on our bathroom sinks. Guys, I found it! And the best part is the wipes are earth-friendly. The black container keeps selling out, so I have the cream in our bathrooms. But, I may have to buy the black when it comes back!

• I recently shared a new partnership with the brand Nokbox. NOK = Next of Kin. It’s basically a box of all of your important documents that you would leave your next of kin if something were to happen to you. I’m planning to get mine done over the next month before school is back in session. And also telling my parents about it! Use code DIYPLAYBOOK15 for 15% off.

Have a great weekend, everyone!