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Happy Sunday all! I’m writing this as I nibble a slice of banana bread that I made a few weeks ago and stuck in the freezer— past Brittany was looking out for future Brittany, and I appreciate her for that. I’m also enjoying a second cup of coffee and a massive juicy peach from our CSA.

After about 5 weeks of on-and-off travel it feels SO GOOD to be home with a fridge full of produce and home-cooked meals once again! As much as I love the treat of eating out, I am so grateful to have full autonomy over what I’m eating again.

I feel my absolute best when I’m consuming a variety of fresh fruits and veg, so thank goodness for our garden and CSA keeping us fueled with wholesome foods from the earth in between our travels.

Today, I’m sharing a roundup of meals we have been enjoying through the busiest days of summer—whatever pace life finds you at right now, I hope some of these recipes bring you nourishment and pleasure, just as they did for us.

• banana bread— whenever those bananas turn brown, I make this amazing banana bread, and sometimes I make two loaves and freeze one

• tofu scramble— a staple this summer using tofu and whatever veg we have on hand. I got tofu scramble at a cafe in Boston that was only seasoned with Old Bay and tossed on the griddle— so I’ve been doing that because it’s too easy and so delish. I like mine with mushrooms, peppers, jalapeños, and spinach. My husband and kids add tomatoes.

• blueberry pancakes— our regular pancake recipe, with fresh blueberries and Vermont maple syrup

• breakfast burritos— tofu scramble, spinach, a can of black beans and roasted potatoes. And sometimes a roasted red pepper. I make these as easy as possible (roast the potatoes in the oven and then toss everything else on the skillet) and then stash them in the fridge or freezer. They have been CLUTCH for all our travels.

• oatmeal— 2 parts oatmeal + 4 parts water (and some chia seeds), bring to a boil, then simmer with a lid on. Some toppings we enjoy: frozen blueberries, bananas, nuts and seeds, raisins, brown sugar or maple syrup, sautéed apples if we have them, chocolate chips, cinnamon, and milk.

• 5-ingredient blender oatmeal pancakes— an easy, wholesome staple

• cereal or granola & soy milk

Lunches have been a lot of leftovers, veggie burgers or dogs at the lake, or whatever veg is ripe in the garden or in our CSA, sautéed in extra virgin olive oil with a little sea salt (so good!).

• veggie pancakes— with things like cabbage, zucchini, and other veggies in abundance right now, I’ve been making these tofu veggie pancakes, and they are so darn yummy; my kids love ‘em too. The liquid is blended silken tofu, which adds extra protein and a chewiness that balances the crisp veggies perfectly. This is a great recipe for using any veggies up— it’s very flexible.

• fresh spring rolls & hoisin or peanut sauce— I use whatever veg I have on hand— typically lettuce, carrot, cucumbers, cabbage, and jalapeños, but also microgreens, radish, green onions, etc., and some tofu (marinated or smoked or straight up, whatever I have time for). And any herbs I have around, cilantro for sure and mint if I can. Dip a sheet of rice paper (I get mine at the Asian market) in water for a few seconds, then lay it flat and fill it with the goods + a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Dip in hoisin or peanut sauce.

• dumpling tomato salad with chile crisp— next level flavor combo and my favorite way to enjoy garden tomatoes the past few years.

• snacky lunches— hummus, veggies, salsa and beans, etc.

• hot dogs and burgers— We’ve consumed a lot of our favorite veggie dogs (Field Roast) and burgers (Beyond Burgers from Costco) this summer for lake trips, a treat.

• lentil Big Mac tacos— Still can’t quit these. I make a double batch and refrigerate the filling to get two dinners out of it, perfection.

• wood-fired pizza— We do this tried-and-true pourable mozz (everyone agrees it’s our fave pizza cheese) and basil. I also make same-day (!!!) sourdough pizza crusts. Everything is archived on this pizzarific Sunday Menu.

• salsa verde bean and rice soup— I made salsa verde and wanted to use up the last little bit, and this recipe was a great way to do so. I also sautéed onions and peppers from the garden as a side with it.

• caprese salad & grilled veggie burgers— garden tomatoes and basil + Plant Ahead fresh plant-based mozzarella, good olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette, French sea salt and fresh cracked pepper. We also make it with plain ole cold tofu, which is also delicious.

• mac n buffalo soy curls— My forever go-to meal from the pantry. 10-minute vegan mac with Brami noodles and buffalo soy curls (this recipe is close to what I use). Plus some type of veg (even chopped carrot and celery work with the buffalo flavor).

• pesto pasta salad with herbed soy curls— I made a big batch of this pesto pasta salad (using whatever ingredients I had) and a side of air-fried soy curls that I had tossed in some herbs and seasoning for a pack-n-go meal for baseball night. It was a hit!

• Olipop— Costco has mini ones now, perfect for my kids who can never finish a whole one.

• s’more season— I loooove s’mores so much

• Van Leeuwen’s ice cream in Brooklyn— We made multiple visits for vegan ice cream scoops and milkshakes!

• Trader Joe’s Hold the Dairy! Mini Cones— Still a fave

• zucchini brownies— I love these so so much, and a great way to use zucchini as a treat (you will never notice it!).

Want more yummy inspiration?

I hope you find something delicious to try! Let me know if you have any favorite summer recipes or meal ideas to share. :)

Have a beautiful Sunday—

🗞️ curl up and read more from In Joy here

📌 visual inspiration for life and beyond

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Hellooooo!! Oh how I’ve missed you!! I’m back from Denver, where we traveled to meet my sweet new baby nephew (I’m an aunt!!!) and celebrate my little brother’s nuptials. Now I’m happily sitting at my laptop sipping a salted maple iced oat milk latte, with my face & body slathered in lotions and oils because ya-desert-raised-New-England-gal is parched from the dry heat (I did not pack enough moisturizers!).

A few weeks ago, I was feeling a nod of burnout, mostly from cramming in lots of late nights and early mornings to work in the cracks and crevices of what was undoubtedly the busiest month of my life. But this morning, when I woke up in my own bed, I was craving this moment of writing, creating, and reconnecting with you all here.

July took us to Lake Ontario for the 4th of July, camping at Lake Carmi (at the Vermont-Canada border), to our first Red Sox game at Fenway, to Connecticut and then New York City, my return to Fenway to see The Chicks (my 2nd time!) and Tim McGraw (my 3rd time!), and then we dashed west to Denevr to kick off August. Our travels and adventures are officially behind us, and while I soaked up every glorious moment of dining out, bearing witness to my children’s awe and delight as they took it all in, and countless core memories, to me there is no place better than home and nothing quite like the calm and steady of our normal routine. Phew! But what a gift of a summer we were blessed to experience. Now to get back to our normal bedtimes, home-cooked meals and errr… chipping away at some summer credit card debt.

I am someone who has a very busy brain, so while I was boppin’ around this summer, my notes app continued to grow with ideas for things to create and share here. So while things have been quieter than normal this summer, there is a lot I’m excited to get to as we sashay into autumn (but not before summer ends, of course).

As kids gear up to head back to school, and the temperature begins to cool, I urge us to savor the final days of summer— peaches that drip down the arm, extended afternoons at the lake or pool, and whatever lazy and vibrant moments you yearned for last winter. Summer isn’t over; don’t let the creep of fall take a single day of this glorious season from you!

Okay, enough yappin’, here’s a look at everything I’ve been Lovin’ Lately!

If you enjoy this (& I wholeheartedly hope you do!!), a big way to help me out is to support my work as a paid subscriber and/or by sharing this with others who you think will also enjoy it. Screenshot your favorite part of this post and post on social media with a link, forward to a friend, give this post a heart, and drop a comment to tell me something that brought you joy. Reaching new readers and being compensated for my work is how I am able to create here.

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🦋 I Tried Living Like it Was Summer 2006 (YouTube)

🐟 The Lost Art of Floundering from

‼️ We’re quietly teaching our kids that everything is more important than them from

🌶️ Authentic Mexican food veganzied by cocinandoconel_jefe (Instagram)

📚10 Most Iconic Books on Gilmore Girls That Every Fan Should Read from

🤯 Something Bigger Than AI is Happening from

📚 Peaceful films & books about finding beauty in everyday moments from

🤠 Reba, Miranda Lambert & Ella Langley on Country Music's Comeback (YouTube)

🌱 10 Things I Stopped Buying (and what I do instead) from

In the comments: What is something you still plan to enjoy and savor this summer?

Happy August!!

One last thing! If you have a moment and you enjoy these posts, would you kindly give this post a heart and/or a comment? Or share it with someone you cherish? These little efforts help me connect with others who may enjoy what I share here. xoxo

🗞️ curl up and read more from In Joy here

📌 visual inspiration for life and beyond

📱 find me online here

🩷 give someone the best gift ever!

It’s a hot summer day, you’re taking refuge indoors to escape the heat, and you’re lazily bored. Let’s watch a movie! You scan your DVD collection to see what catches your eye, something you’ve watched a dozen times before but never gets old. From the comfort of your inflatable chair (that you are now glued to from lingering sweat), you hit play…

Read more

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Somehow we are a full month into summer break over here with no signs of it slowing down. We’re also halfway through 2026, and it feels outrageous that time has moved at such a breakneck pace. But then I look back at some of the books I’ve read this year, and they feel like a lifetime ago. How is this possible? Books seem to exist in my life on an entirely separate plane from reality, yet still intersect with it.

Summer has been full. And while I had visions of my husband’s sabbatical equating to towering stacks of books read by moi, I was laughably delusional (as I tend to be with my imaginary reading life). We’ve either been on the go or waterlogged in some body of water— from lakes to pools— and I stand by the notion that I am okay with a quieter reading life when it means other corners of life are bursting at the seams (so long as it’s not mindless scrolling that’s bursting).

Midyear is always a good time to check in on one’s reading life. And since I’m reading books I should be DNFing (more on that below), I think this will be a good opportunity to recalibrate my TBR and consider what type of books resonate with me most to create a vibrant reading life.

I have read almost 40 books this year, and in evaluating them, it's crystal clear to me that most of the books I have loved were read in the first quarter of the year. I think this can be attributed to the new year reading zest and the end-of-year reflections about the previous year’s reading life. Here’s hoping a midyear check-in is just what I needed to get my reading stride back as we head into the second half of the year.

Before I share my favorites of 2026 (so far), I would love to hear from you in the comments— What have been your favorite reads of the year so far? And what is a book you are hoping to read in the second half of the year?

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

This was the second book I read in 2026, and it set the bar incredibly high. Nothing about this book’s synopsis of an elderly woman and former lawyer who exchanges letters with various family, friends, and community members appealed to me, but the hype fascinated me, so I picked it up on impulse and was floored by how much I loved it and how excited I was to be reading it. It even inspired a very fun post about letter writing and pen pals.

Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice

Sometimes the mark of a really good book is how long it lingers with you after you read it. This is one of those books. While I enjoyed the story, set on a reservation in Canada during an ominous apocalyptic-type event as a small community navigates a new world without grocery store restocks and power through the harshest season of the year, it’s also a book I still think about often and how realistic it felt. I hope to read the sequel, Moon of the Turning Leaves, this autumn.

Tilt by Emma Pattee

Lucky me, I was at a bookstore when my friend (who has excellent taste in books) texted me to rave about this book, so of course it came home with me. As soon as I started it, I was hooked! A devastating earthquake rips through Portland, OR, and a woman, who is 37 weeks pregnant (!!!), is at IKEA during the event and sets out across the earthquake aftermath in search of her partner. It was impossible to put down and a wild ride from start to finish.

We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman

After reading and loving Catherine Newman’s recent books featuring Rocky (Sandwich and Wreck), I picked this one up in February, and holy heck, I was stunned— by beauty, by grief, by humour. I’ve decided that my favorite Catherine Newman book is whatever one I’ve read most recently because I simply cannot choose. Her writing is unlike any other author I have ever read (and her Substack is equally as enjoyable). Her books stick with me, they change me, and they soothe me in the most delicious ways— from descriptions of food to characters and their messy yet relatable little worlds.

Kin by Tayari Jones

I cannot stop thinking about the characters in Kin, especially the two main characters who grew up together since infancy, both without a mother in their lives. This book is a powerful portrait of what it meant to be a Black woman in the American South in the 1950s and 60s and who we become when we follow our own paths. Tayari Jones’ writing is in a league of its own. I highlighted passages on nearly every page of this book and took my sweet time digesting her words.

Olive Kitteridge and Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout

The first half of the year was very Elizabeth Strout heavy (as you may already know, I’ve become quite the fan in the past year and have been devouring her backlist) and I now have two books left before I graduate to Elizabeth Strout Completist. #proud But here I am lumping these two together because I favored Olive, Again more, but that wouldn’t have been possible without having read Olive Kitteridge first. I also read them back-to-back, so it felt like one book, and that was deeply satisfying. Olive is a retired educator who lives in the small town of Crosby, Maine, and while I very much loved Strout’s character development and the threads that connect characters together, I especially loved these books as a portrait of the human condition as well as a glimpse at aging in the second half of one’s life.

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Not me crying in a space book!! I don’t like to give too much away because I legit knew nothing going into this book and was so surprised by the main plot of the book (not the part where an astronaut wakes up on a spaceship with no memory and has to save the Earth, the other main plot!) and how much I loooved it. My husband read it around the same time, and then we watched the movie together in the theater. He also wrote me this poem afterwards (which only makes sense if you have read or watched PHM):

The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout

Oh look, another Elizabeth Strout. Well, lucky me to have been able to read one of Elizabeth Strout’s books upon its publication, to live in the same time that Elizabeth Strout is still writing books!! Ohhhh, ohh, how I loved this one. I loved Artie Dam, the 57-year-old high school history teacher who showcases the human capacity to appear one way but hold within us so many nuanced feelings. Artie is real, in my heart, because Strout writes characters who feel above fiction.

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

This isn’t a book that gave me warm fuzzies, but it’s certainly a book that gave me a lot to think about, in a Black Mirror-type way. I also read this at the start of the year, as ICE was aggressively terrorizing communities and people (as they continue to do), and the lines of fiction and reality definitely blurred. A mother of toddler twins is returning home from an overseas work trip only to be detained at the airport because technology collects data from people’s dreams, and she was deemed a “risk” to society because of a dream she had. An absolute nightmare and cautionary tale that I still think of often.

Whistler by Ann Patchett

Fresh off the press, I just finished this one this week! To spare you the double review, see my thoughts on it below.

Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage | it was okay

I was so eager to get a taste of this western rom-com that I’ve heard the utmost praise for. And while I loved the setting and thought the relationship was mostly sweet, I really struggled with the spicy scenes and particularly the male main character’s (who, to his credit, reads like Tim Riggins!) dialogue in the bedroom. But in all honesty, most spice scenes aren’t my favorite, so it was easy to read past those bits. Overall, it was a good time, but I likely won't continue with the series.

The Compound by Aisling Rawle | should have DNF’d

This book took me an entire month to get through, and I should have DNF’d it, but I was genuinely curious to get to the end. To be fair to the book, I was already in a bit of a reading slump and picked this one up because I had bought it last summer and really wanted to move it off my stack (never a good reason to pick up a book). I had heard mixed reviews, but sometimes when a book is polarizing, I like to know for myself. And I can’t say I didn’t like the story. It was interesting enough, but a mix of bad timing and lack of personal understanding of the book that is described as Love Island meets Lord of the Flies left me feeling meh about the whole thing. I’ve only watched a couple of episodes of Love Island, so I think I was missing some background appreciation.

Whistler by Ann Patchett | loved!

The only thing I knew about this book going in was that Ann Patchett wrote it, and that was all I needed to know. Oh, ohhh, it was so good! I listened to the audiobook because Ann herself is the narrator, and it was every bit as soothing and delightful as that sounds. It’s layered with stories and made me want to squeeze all of my loved ones. It reminded me a lot of The Dutch House in many ways, but it’s very different, too.

e-book: I saw recommend Turn Off the Light by Jacquie Walters as a good supernatural thriller for summer, and I have been craving it ever since. I do love having a book on my e-reader when life is busier, making it easier to read in smaller spurts, like today when I was in a loooong checkout line at Costco.

physical book: I popped into Author’s Note, an indie bookstore in western New York, while visiting my husband’s family at the lake for the week, and The Lake Escape by Jamie Day jumped out at me (being at the lake, and all!). When I read the back cover, I discovered it was set in Vermont, so it was an easy decision to bring it home with me, and I started reading it immediately. I’m excited to be back in a thriller for some reading momentum.

Here are the other books I picked up at Author’s Note:

Don’t forget to leave a comment and share: What have been your favorite reads of the year so far? And what is a book you are hoping to read in the second half of the year?

May your next book be unputdownable!

Want more bookish content? Here are some recent newsletters that have featured books and reading. I hope you find your next great read!

Books are linked through Bookshop.org. If you choose to purchase any, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. And I’ll likely spend any earnings on more books or salsa ingredients. :)

July ushers in sweltering heat and marks the midway point of the year. I’m writing this from the comfort of my bed (and the only room in our house with a window unit!). Everyone is asleep after another full summer day, and while life has been buzzing nonstop since the kids’ summer break commenced mid-June, I’ve purposely let some areas of life and routine ease up a bit, and it’s been a welcome shift.

Last night, after a full day in the mountains enjoying the sun and water, I let the kids have whatever they wanted for dinner that was readily available— cereal, cheese and crackers, ranch and veggies, chips and salsa. They loved it, and so did I.

I’m embracing a relaxed state of mind, less fuss, more ease. Meals are simple— whatever fresh veg we have, whatever carb is available, whatever is easy, packable, or grillable. Housework is looser— the kids have turned the living room into their own fortress, building structures with couch cushions, lining surfaces with figures, books, Rubik’s cubes, rocks they have collected, and stuffed animals.

As we settle into the heart of summer and 2026, are there areas of life that can use a bit more ease? Where things can be a little looser for the sake of a slower pace all around? I hope we can all feel the exhale of summer and the softness of letting go of the little things and choosing a few areas to lighten the load.

Here’s a look at everything I’ve been Lovin’ Lately… Oh! And by the way, I’ve added a new category: Wearing! Featuring things I’ve worn recently using what I already have in my closet or found secondhand. No links, just looks.

✨ The Art of Romanticizing Your Daily Life from

🕺 70s summer from

🫙 10 things that might be pretty crunchy, but that are also really chic (yes, really) from

🧺 Cozy inspiration for the longest day and sunshine season from

👠 Paris Street Report 09: what Parisians are wearing when it’s hot from

📚 summer lake day reading list from

📱 How to edit your phone, your files, and all the digital clutter in between from

In the comments: What is something in your life that you can approach with a bit more ease this summer?

Have a wonderful month, a wonderful long weekend, and a wonderful 4th of July to everyone in the US—

One last thing! If you have a moment and you enjoy these posts, would you kindly give this post a heart and/or a comment? Or share it with someone you cherish? These little efforts help me connect with others who may enjoy what I share here. xoxo

🗞️ curl up and read more from In Joy here

📌 visual inspiration for life and beyond

📱 find me online here

🩷 give someone the best gift ever!

One of the things I struggled with in my very short-lived stint in influencing was keeping up with trends and sharing shopping links (which is basically the entire point of influencing). I loved the creative side of it— putting together outfits, finding unique gifts and items, and styling my home— but as I became more aware of the negative impacts of overconsumption on the environment, while also struggling to keep up with the Joneses myself, my creative joy was diminished by the ick of it all.

Since shifting to sourcing things secondhand and more intentionally building my wardrobe and home, I’ve reignited the joy in sharing styling, gift-giving, and personal expression, knowing I can do so in a more mindful, environmentally-friendly, and wallet-friendly way and hopefully inspire others to choose secondhand when possible.

Over the past few months, I’ve received countless messages from readers sharing their thrifting finds and wins— some from folks who are completely new to the secondhand shopping world. This is the kind of influencing I feel proud of and the kind that makes me excited to share more.

Slowly, it feels like the tide is beginning to shift. The veil of influencing and overconsumption is lifting; people are maxed out with stuff, anxious about the tax our modern lives are taking on the planet, and basic needs are getting pricier by the second. On top of that, it’s become glaringly clear that new goods are not produced at the same quality as older goods— many new products are made cheaply and often with synthetic materials (which pose consequences for our bodies, the environment, and our wallets, and ironically the materials last forever but the products don’t hold up) and designed to fall apart more quickly so we replace things more frequently. Oof. Plus, when every influencer is peddling the same fast fashion and Amazon finds, everyone starts to lose their luster. The details of personal expression are surrendered to a sea of sameness.

I share my experiences because I want others to see the potential in thrifting, to shift the narrative that I grew up believing about shopping secondhand, and to experience the joys of it themselves. Any time you choose secondhand over new, anytime you resist a quick tap of the “buy now” button, anytime you pause before making a purchase is a win for you, workers trapped in exploited conditions, and the environment (and really all of us because it’s starting to feel like there isn’t going to be much $$$ left after the 1% are done hoarding it all).

The more I thrift and source things secondhand, the more I see that there is already so much— more than enough— for all of us. When I need something, like a larger waterbottle for my son’s 2-hour summer baseball practice, my default is no longer Amazon/Target/etc. It’s the thrift store. I can find just about anything and everything I need secondhand.

I’ve shared how thrifting has helped my creativity and personal style flourish, about unique gifts I’ve been able to give my children, like my 8-year-old’s birthday stocking, and all the big and small ways the shift in consumption has been all around positive and delightful. And today I’m answering questions from readers in hopes that you feel even more equipped and excited to find your next great outfit, piece of furniture, gift, or whatever else you need at your local thrift store.

Q: How do you sanitize thrifted things, especially shoes? What won’t you buy secondhand because of cleanliness issues?

For clothing and things like blankets or stuffed animals, I always wash them as soon as possible. For hard goods (including shoes), I use an all-purpose spray and wipe it clean. Dishes and kitchenware get a good scrub. The only things I haven’t bought secondhand are rugs, simply because I’m anti-shoes-in-the-house. But I do have an entryway rug on my thrift list since that’s where shoes do enter our home. Otherwise, I’m open to just about everything. I’ve thrifted workout wear, swimsuits, shoes, hats, water bottles, and more. Even as a no-shoes-in-the-house germaphobe, I don’t have an issue with these things. I see them as no different than eating at a restaurant or sleeping in a bed/using a towel at a hotel.

Q: I have noticed prices at thrift stores are sometimes more expensive than new, and have been going up in general (example: $8.99 for a used t-shirt). Any tips on knowing when something used is too expensive to buy?

Definitely! Sometimes I’m okay with this— for example, I bought bubbles at a local thrift store for my kids for $2 when I know I could get them for $1.50 at the grocery store, because my main motivation for sourcing secondhand is diverting items from the landfill. But overall I don’t like to overspend on secondhand goods (unless something is vintage and very special like a 90s sweatershit I ordered of my alma mater!) and see it as evening out in other ways like when I bought a bin full of gently used Barbie dolls and clothes, an expansive set of Magic Clip princess dolls (that are going for $65 and up on Ebay!), a Polly Pocket, and other goodies all for $10.

That said, I do think more intentionally about this topic when it comes to clothes. I always, always, look at the fabric tag. A lot of “cheap” goods these days are often made from synthetic materials— aka plastic (polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex), so I try to primarily buy goods made with natural materials (most garments should have a tag, often at the neck or along one of the side seams). Then I consider the brand name, but that’s not always an indicator anymore, as even brand-name products are compromising quality and utilizing more and more synthetic materials. The last thing I do if I am unsure about something is a Google image search on my phone to see what the item is selling for on other resale sites to gauge the price. It’s not a perfect system, but as someone who doesn’t shop full price very often anymore, I agree with your sentiment— it’s ideal to make informed choices.

You can also consult the thrift store staff and make a case if you feel like something is overpriced for the condition or quality of the item. They may not always change the price, but it doesn’t hurt to try.

Q: Do you have any advice on how to stop thrifting so much? Asking for a friend… 😅

Thrifting is definitely addicting— the thrill of the hunt and finding treasures! And thrifting is not immune to overconsumption. The more I’ve gotten into it, the more addictive it’s become, and the more mindful I try to become. A few things I have tried that worked for me:

1. Create physical boundaries for whatever you find you are in excess of. For example, with a smaller closet, I am limited by what I have space for and have to be diligent about maintaining a smaller wardrobe (which is actually very helpful for me). The same can go for dishware, games, etc.

2. It can be easy to thrift something because it feels like you’re getting a deal, but I try to consider if I would pay full price for the item. If I wouldn’t then it’s probably a good indicator that I don’t need it, even discounted (easier said than done, aks me how I know…).

3. Set a limit for yourself before going into a thrift store. This could be a monetary budget (I am only spending $20 today), or a numerical limit (I am only walking out with 5 items today), or limiting yourself to only the top discounted items (at Goodwill, certain tags are discounted for 50-75% off, so try shopping only those colored tags).

4. Create a thrift list note in your phone. Before going thrifting, check in with the items and try to stick to only the items on the list. I know this is challenging because you never know what is waiting for you inside the thrift store, but maybe you make a plan for only shopping from your list + 1 bonus item if presented with something you can’t resist.

5. Have an empty-handed day. Go to the thrift store with the sole intention of walking out empty-handed and practice building the muscle of browsing and not purchasing.

6. Delete secondhand shopping apps on your phone. Keep them on your computer if you wish, and create a more intentional practice for browsing.

7. Try a no-buy month coupled with decluttering. And try shopping your home and closet for a few weeks, sometimes we just need the reminder that we have what we need.

8. Spend time on Pinterest and IRL tuning into your personal style and what you like. There is so much noise in the world, and it requires mindfulness to push a lot of that aside to understand what you actually like and what feels good on you. The clearer you get with this, the more disciplined you will be in your shopping.

9. If you are not yet trying on clothes, start trying them on so you can be more discerning with what you bring home. If you can’t utilize a fitting room, wear bike shorts and a sports bra and try things on over your clothes. Trying things on is a must for me when thrifting. I tend to try on a lot and only buy a few because once I see something on my body and experience how it feels, I have a lot more information to work with.

10. And if all else fails, try thrifting for others! Turn your joy of thrifting into shopping for loved ones (ask them) or even curating bundles for others. I see lots of posts about people who love to thrift and turned their curating skills into a job.

Q: What do you prefer to buy new/pay more for higher quality, to get exactly what you want, etc? This is a tricky question since when it comes to clothing and furniture, often older is better! It seems like there’s some kind of tradeoff between quality and preference? How you think about these things would be interesting.

This is a rich question. Honestly, the allure of “new” has very much worn off for me in recent years. I recently purchased a pair of Levi’s secondhand that were new with tags, and I was shocked at how differently they fit compared to the worn-in Levi’s I’ve gotten at the thrift store. But yes, you are so right, older does seem to be better in terms of quality these days. My motivation for shifting towards secondhand shopping was primarily rooted in environmental stewardship, so that drives my choices for the most part. I opt for new when I really can’t find what I need at the thrift store. Lamp shades are an example of something I struggle to find in decent condition that I typically buy new for the lamp bases I thrift. Accessories, like most socks and underwear, I also buy new and choose natural materials and brands like Darn Tough that offer a lifetime guarantee on their socks and will recycle and repurpose your old socks (this is huge for my husband, who wears out his socks like it’s his job). And then anything that is hyper-specific or simply not available at the thrift store— my older kid’s birthday gift requests, specific books, etc. And in those cases, as much as I possibly can, I try to source things locally and/or through small businesses.

Q: The sensory experience of thrift shopping has always been hard for me (the smells!). I SO want to get over it, but it does really affect the in-person experience for me. Would love to hear about any ‘hacks’ or a mental reframe that could get me back out there and rewire my “everything must smell like a candle from Anthro in order for this to be enjoyable” nervous system.

Fair! As someone with a heightened sense of smell who also struggles with overstimulation, I totally get this. Thankfully, this isn’t something I encounter too often at my thrift stores, but still, things like detergent scents can easily overwhelm me. Any clothes or washable goods go straight into the washing machine when I get home. But before that, I think your note about adopting a reframer is brilliant. Personally, I think the thrill of finding something unique, or high-value, trumps the scent of that (albeit heavenly) Anthro candle, and the more I delight in that feeling, the less excited I get about traditional shopping experiences. But readers! Do you have any other ideas for this question? Leave us some thoughts in the comments if you do, please!

Hey! If you enjoyed this, I think you may also love these!

My next thrifting-themed post will focus on where I shop secondhand— online and IRL— and unexpected spots at the thrift store I never sleep on to find some really surprising thrift scores. If there is anything else you want me to cover, please leave a comment and let me know.

Thank you for being on this journey with me and for letting me gush about the joys of secondhand shopping. It’s truly a pleasure.

I hope your new favorite secondhand treasure is just around the corner—

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Do you ever take a moment to consider all the small things that whir in the background of your life and quietly help you thrive? Earlier this year, I started tuning into those things. As a result, I shared 12 little habits that upgrade my life— small, gentle, subtle choices I make day in and day out that stack up and enrich my life. Then I shared about 12 simple things that have a positive impact on my life, less “habits” and more so general practices that make life sweeter.

Today I’m sharing another 12 things, but this time I’m sharing about actual things. You may already know this, but I am not one to recommend things lightly. I’ve been working on this list for months now, observing the rhythms of my day and the things that smooth it all out, lighten my load, and upgrade my life. When I recommend something that takes up physical space, requires resources to produce, and costs money, I do so only with the utmost consideration and thoughtfulness.

I now present to you 12 things that upgrade my daily life. And when you get to the end, please leave a comment and share something that makes your life a bit sweeter and easier. I’d love to know!

Supergoop Sunscreen Pump (By the Door)

The “by the door” part is key. We’ve used this sunscreen for years now and buy the refill pouch each summer to restock (and limit waste). Having the sunscreen pump out and accessible makes it so easy to slather it on everyone on the way out the door.

Wonder Oven (Air Fryer)

I was relatively late to the air fryer scene, but it didn’t take long for me to understand the hype. We have the Our Place Wonder Oven, and it also toasts and bakes, so we use it aaaa lot. Yes, for the crispy air fryer aspects for everything from frozen veg nuggets to leftovers, but it’s also great for small-batch things that are not worth heating up the entire oven. And with a small kitchen, it eliminates the need for a toaster and looks dang cute.

Pressure Cooker + Slow Cooker

While we’re on the subject of kitchen gadgets, the Our Place Dream Cooker is also clutch. Yes, as a pressure cooker but also as a slow cooker. I make rice and beans in it several times a week. For those two reasons alone, it’s worth the counter space in my kitchen. But I also make plenty of soups and stews in it, which is a nice bonus.

TUSHY Bidet

This is not the first time I’m singing about our TUSHY bidet, and it will not be the last time because guyyyyss, it’s actually the best thing since sliced bread. I miss it when I’m not at home and not just for the reasons you would expect. It’s also so clutch when I’m on my period aaand after intimacy with my husband. The TUSHY bidet is easy to install on just about any toilet too. Oh and you use way less toilet paper which is a win for your wallet and the environment. I plan to add one to every bathroom in our home.

CSA

Last year we finally hopped on our first CSA (community supported agriculture), and it was a highlight of the warmer months. Every Saturday we venture over to the farmstand ( to be exact!) to pick up our goods. We get so excited to see what we get each week from berries to squash, leafy greens to corn, and we can add on things like mushrooms and bread, which you knooow we love. It makes eating seasonally and locally easy breezy. We also have four garden boxes and pick up extra produce at the markets, and yet we still devour every fiber of our CSA haul each week.

Craft Trays

I found these at Michaels many, many years ago, and the kids use them ALL.THE.TIME for everything from LEGO building (so helpful for containing all the bits!) to slime and playdough play, to messy art projects and beyond. My kids know to pull them out pretty much anytime they are getting into something that needs to be contained.

Tongue Scraper

I’ve had a stainless steel tongue scraper for at least a decade now, and my mouth is so much fresher as a result. It’s the first thing I do in the morning when I wake up, and the last thing I do at night after brushing my teeth. Here are 5 reasons to scrape your tongue and how to do it (though it’s really quite straightforward).

Chatbooks Monthly Minis

We’ve been doing the Chatbooks Monthly Minis since 2019, and everyone (but especially the kids) adore looking at them. My favorite thing about them is that at the end of the year I can compile all our monthly books into a yearbook, making what would be a daunting task outrageously easy. When you are choosing photos for your Monthly Minis, the app limits you to the month you are working on so you don’t have to scroll through the 100,000 photos on your camera roll to have physical photos printed. Thank heavens.

Pelvic Floor Therapy & Reformer Pilates

While these aren’t physical things, they are both things that have upgraded my life in big ways, especially after having 4 babies. I was lucky enough to have a chiropractor during my 4th pregnancy who also specialized in pelvic floor therapy, so I transitioned straight into it after having my last baby, and it was life-changing. I can sneeze and cough like it’s 1999. As for reformer Pilates, it is a critical part of my weekly routine (3x a week) and has made a massive difference in my core and back strength after kids. And my neck and back pain is virtually non-existent now. I also love feeling strong and present in my body, and having someone tell me exactly what to do and help me make adjustments if needed on my form. Local friends, I go to The Body Lab and cannot recommend them enough.

Vibrator

Everyone deserves to feel pleasure, and everyone’s bodies work differently. For me, pleasure was more accessible when I integrated something vibrational into the bedroom. My very favorite products are from Dame, they have something for everyone. But if you don’t know where to start, trust the gals from Sex in the City and start with the classic magic wand.

Vitamix

I was originally very skeptical, but after we invested in a Vitamix blender in 2018, I was quickly converted. We use it at a minimum once a day, everything from smoothies to soups and sauces, homemade plant milks, to blender pancakes and cookie dough, you name it. We also have the food processor attachment, which is also amazing. Vitamix blenders come with a 10-year warranty that we utilized a few years ago. Vitamix repaired and replaced everything that needed it and covered all expenses (shipping, labor, parts, etc). Nothing and I mean NOTHING comes with that kind of service anymore.

Ember Mug

Of all the things on this list, an Ember mug that keeps your hot beverages hot feels the most frivolous, but it would be a great gift to ask for at the holidays. I loved mine so much that I got one for my husband, who is as low-fuss, low-maintenance, simple as one can be, and even he loves it. A hot mug of coffee— that stays hot— is the best morning treat. Be sure to grab a sliding lid for hot coffee on the go, too.

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy…

Do you have a product or thing that upgrades your daily life? Let us know in the comments!

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Summer is the season I’ve been least excited to get dressed in since becoming a mother nearly 10 years ago. Most items in my summer wardrobe either didn’t fit my current body the way I prefer or weren’t functional for my lifestyle.

Now that I am on the other side of having children, and firmly in my postpartum body, I’ve been slowly building a wardrobe that suits my personal style and lifestyle, and almost entirely secondhand.

For the past few years I’ve shared about my commitment to buying no new clothes and my journey into sourcing the things we need secondhand. It’s been a beautiful learning experience and outrageously fun. Way more fun than a blurry eyed late-night Aerie (or insert any other fast fashion brand) haul where only some of the items actually fit me the way I want (but like, only kinda) and all of the items are too trendy to last more than a season, or frankly, too poorly made to. When I’m thrifting, I’m exposing myself to new brands and styles, prints and patterns, cuts and fits and unlocking parts of my personal style that have been suppressed by retailers regurgitating the same trends.

In the past few weeks I’ve experienced a major shift in how I feel about dressing myself. Considering how much I loathed dressing myself in the summer— ever reaching for black bike shorts or leggings— this has been a pleasant surprise. Not only do I like my clothes more because I am selecting them with greater intentionality, and treasure hunting my way to them (or to get a little woo-woo, they are finding their way to me…), but my clothes carry more meaning to me now, they have soul to them.

I’m more connected to my personal style than ever before because I’m not just limited to what’s new and trending. And as someone who cares deeply about the environment and the future my children have on this planet, it feels really good to divert items from the landfill and reduce the demand for new goods. On top of all that, shopping secondhand is also more cost effective, so I’ve got more money in the bank for things that truly matter to me— the food we put in our bodies, experiences and activities, causes I care about, and our future.

Earlier this spring I did a closet refresh and purged some items I was no longer wearing. The extra breathing room in my closet energized me. I felt much more excited to get dressed and put together outfits when I had less to work with. Then, determined to build a summer wardrobe that feels good, I ventured to a local consignment store and picked up a few new (to me) dresses and skirts that would work with what I already had in my wardrobe. Since these two events, dressing myself feels more creative, expressive, and joyful. I even challenged myself to wear anything but black leggings for as long as possible (I’m on day 24 of no black leggings!), and it’s been such a lovely way to do something small yet pleasurable for myself everyday.

With all this zest, I put together a lookbook of summer outfits I’ll be wearing on repeat this season using only what I already had in my wardrobe and secondhand items. Since most of these items are thrifted this is not your typical style post full of links but rather something that I hope will inspire you to do two things: 1. See new ways to wear something that is already in your closet and 2. See that there are so many wonderful pieces waiting for you at your local thrift and consignment stores— with enough garments already in existence to dress the next 6 generations (I’ve never been the same since learning that) it’s literally alllll there.

By the way, my closet is tiny— so tiny I can actually wrap my arms around it! And if my mighty little closet can do all this and more (!!) I hope you feel encouraged that yours can too.

Up until recently I resisted wearing skirts and dresses, struggling to make them functional in my lifestyle with young kids. But I decided to change that and I’m so glad I did because maxi and midi skirts and dresses are so comfortable and delightful to wear.

✿ fun patterned maxi dress— A dress doesn’t just have to just be a dress! Adding accessories changes the shape and layers create an entirely new outfit. I love this hot pink boxy sweatshirt I’ve had for years paired with the greens orange quilt pattern on this dress, mixing earth tones + cozy print with something bright and bold.

✿ funky pattern— I found a maxi skirt that fit me perfectly in a pattern I wouldn’t normally gravitate towards but I love it both with neutral colors (I consider moss and olive green neutrals) and for pattern mixing or pairing with a graphic tee.

✿ flowy skirt & top— There is something romantic about a little flow in your step and pairing my favorite thrifted linen tank (you will see it a lot in this post!) with a flowy peachy skirt makes it perfect for casual wear or dress up.

✿ simple cotton maxi dress— I forgot how nice it is in the summer to throw on a breezy cotton maxi dress and dust your hand, especially after a day in the sun and water. I found this drapey cotton dress made by an Italian brand at my local consignment shop!

✿ linen skirt and body suit— Simple and chic. Body suits are the most low fuss way to enjoy a tucked in look IMHO.

If I’ve learned anything in the past few weeks it’s that skirts and dresses— no matter the color or pattern— can be as versatile as your favorite pair of blue jeans!

✿ graphic sweater— I love the look of this skirt with my favorite cotton graphic sweater that I got secondhand last summer (after wanting a similar one for years).

✿ gingham crop top— I got this gingham crop top secondhand two summers ago and I was so excited to mix patterns and pair it with this skirt like a little garden picnic on my body! Adding a red baseball cap makes it playful and laid back and my new favorite thrifted vintage denim chore jacket takes it up a notch further.

✿ belted with a white blouse— This white cotton blouse has been in my closet for 4+ years now and paired with this skirt and an old (Hollister!) belt from my high school days (!!!) turns it into a western leaning cottagecore dream outfit (if we can mix patterns we can definitely mix aesthetics too, we’re having fun here!).

✿ casual layers— Not that were anywhere near fall, but I like to think about how my summer outfits can transition to cooler weather. A neutral cotton sweater + some brown loafers makes this a great transition outfit or with sandles for a cooler summer day (don’t hate me but this is part of our climate here in Vermont).

✿ keep it simple with a body suit— Simple is chic too and I love how body suits bring things together seamlessly.

My go to staple in the summer is an oversized button down. I love having the light layer for a cool morning or evening but also, it’s just so easy breezy and effortless.

✿ chambray or denim button down with a skirt— Chambray and denim button downs have been a wardrobe staple for as far back as I can remember. They can function like a light denim jacket, cute with a short skirt.

✿ with a baseball cap— Effortless yet intentional, when in doubt throw on a button down with a baseball cap!

✿ over a crop top— A button down with a crop top + leggings has been my summer uniform for a few years now, but this summer I’m trying out the jorts trend with a pair of thrifted wide leg denim that was too short on me and ngl, I dig it.

✿ side tuck— The side tuck gives you a bit of shape and detail without having to fuss with tucking the whole thing in, a perfect balance.

✿ tied— But a tied button down is the OG queen, over a swimsuit, with a skirt, or your fave pair of jeans.

✿ two buttons— The two-three button move is my favorite for warm summer days. Let that air flow gently kiss you throughout your day.

✿ with overalls— Under your overalls, over your overalls, or try this trick to achieve a little bit of both!

Summer date nights are my favorite but also incredibly rare as all of our childcare options are limited in the summer months. A girl can still dream though…

✿ favorite black linen top— I found this linen top and the previous owner had sewn pleats into the front to bring in the boxiness, which I easily undid thanks to my seam ripper! Now it’s my favorite shirt. I love the fit and square neckline and how versatile it is with skirts, green twill wide leg cropped pants, or baggy vintage denim. And my thrifted denim chore jacket with black woven loafers makes it great for the seasonal transition or cooler days.

✿ colorful ruffles— I’ve had this purple cotton ruffle top for 5 years now and it’s one of my favorites to wear when I want to feel “dressed up” but comfortable (which the only way I ever wan to feel). The color is not one I normally choose but I love it and love that it’s something different in my wardrobe. It looks great tucked in with cream twill cropped pants or untucked with dark wash cropped denim, but would also be flirty with a skirt or denim skort (which I finally got my hands on via eBay after wanting one for a few summers now).

✿ gingham mini dress— I love a mini dress but rarely find any that work for my height so I was elated to score this pink gingham cutie at a consignment shop. I love it dressed down with a denim button down, too.

This summer we’ll be on the move a lot, so outfits need to be comfy and functional from everything to trotting around NYC and Boston to countless baseball games.

✿ white tank— A simple white tank is a classic piece in my wardrobe. I’ve had this seersucker apron tank in my closet for 6 years— if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. It pairs perfectly with this straw wide brim hat I’ve had for even longer (my only hat like it because once again, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!).

✿ checkers + sports jersey— I love pairing my sports gear with a pattern, like these gingham shorts or checkered slip on Vans to keep things interesting. Jersey’s are also cute with maxi dresses and pleated shorts.

✿ overalls— Last summer I bought a pair of secondhand overalls that I loved so much I also purchased the shorts version (both via Poshmark). The extra pockets are helpful for long days out and about and as a millennial I will simply never get over how cute denim overalls are. A full length baggy pair are on my thrift wishlist.

✿ baseball hats— My favorite accessory is a baseball hat and yes, wear them to baseball games but also wear them everywhere! Pair them with something unexpected like a dress or flowy top.

Summer is a busy season but it’s also a season to indulge in leisure— swimming, lounging, and even though the sun lingers past 9pm, I refuse to neglect a full night’s sleep (most nights).

✿ eggplant leggings— Though I’m challenging myself to forgo black leggings (except for actually working out), a unique color is a great way to mix things up from Pilates to over air conditioned grocery store runs. I love this eggplant pair I found at a consignment shop (again, not something I would have picked on my own if confronted with my preferred color options but now that I have them I am obsessed with the color).

✿ soft pants— I found some organic cotton joggers recently at the thrift store that I’ll be reaching for on lazy days, paired with a crop top or cotton sweater. And after a long, busy, summer day, nothing is more relaxing than slipping into soft pants and a soft top and lounging on the couch with a book or favorite old movie.

✿ swimsuits— These swimsuits were $4 at an estate sale and while they are not my typical high-waisted cut, I’m leaning into them because they were FOUR DOLLARS at an estate sale and I’m unlearning the belief that moms subscribe to “clothing rules,” because we don’t. Also the perfect swim cover up is a button down. Facts.

✿ cotton PJ set— I found this cotton PJ set at the thrift store and they genuinely feel like the most luxuriously crisp and cool hotel sheets. I feel so chic in them, even if no one ever sees them, I love it.

And most summer days are simple and ordinary, so I reach for my faves.

✿ linen— shorts, pants, and a linen tank— easy, breezy, breathable summer girl!

✿ cropped jeans— I found these dark wash Levi’s in the men’s section (always, always, always!!! look in the men’s section!) that were too short on me but a quick snip of the scissors and they hit just right now. And since they were thrifted they are deliciously worn in, I’ll wear them with all my favorite graphic t-shirts and tanks.

✿ button down, cropped top, shorts— My summer uniform. Do you have a summer uniform? If not, let this be the summer you define one. What will you grab and throw on for impromptu ice cream shop bops? Your summer uniform, that’s what!

✿ baseball hat + tank— I have these seersucker apron tanks from 6 years ago in 4 colors (white, black, rust and lavender), and I still love wearing them all summer long. Add a baseball cap (I hope you are not playing a drinking game every time I say baseball cap because that would be extremely dangerous).

✿ shorts— Maybe it’s a height thing but I’ve never been a big fan of the way shorts feel on my body. Perhaps its the way they are always riding up or how the backs of my legs on those weird plastic coated metal park benches always have the most uncomfortable impressions, IDK. But recently I found some high-waisted denim shorts that I’m excited to wear all summer with t-shirts. I looooove shorts + long sleeves, a cotton crew neck with shorts is a dream (and I’m fairly certain the obsession originated from THIS Britney Spears music video).

I have finally discovered that I can keep my little wallet, keys, and lip balm in a small pouch and easily transition to a functional bag for different circumstances. And now that I have my fresh new thrifted entry way set up I have a way of doing this almost effortlessly on my way out the door— just add water bottle and snacks!

✿ everyday tote— I’m not much of a “nice bag” person (too many risks with 4 small children and my own carelessness) but I did find a Longchamp Le Pliage bag for $5 at the thrift store recently and after a little sprucing up it’s back in shape and fantastic for running around and not having to stress about what happens to my bag. Plus it was only $5 so I too can handle whatever it is forced to endure.

✿ large boat tote— I got this large boat tote when my kids started more regular sports and it’s still clutch for just that but also as a travel bag.

✿ straw market tote— I’ve had this bag since 2020 and it’s perfect for stuffing with fresh produce during market season.

✿ mini boat tote— this has become my grab n’ go bag for errands or Pilates, etc because I can easily toss in the things I need plus a drink, sunglasses, and my book or e-reader.

✿ library tote— We’ll be at the library plenty this summer and my fave tote, from a local bookstore, is ready.

✿ backpack— I thrifted this Matt & Nat vegan leather backpack for $10 and it’s perfect for outings where I’m stuck with everyone’s extra stuff but don’t want to shoulder the load.

Give yourself some breathing room— it’s actually wild to me how much more excited I am to get dressed when I have LESS in my closet! Don’t start with a trip to the thrift/consignment store, start by reducing and then fill in the gaps that will compliment what you already have.

Use Pinterest to shop your closet— this is my favorite way to use Pinterest for outfit inspiration. You don’t need the exact items in an image to recreate it, but you can start by searching for items in your closet that you want to style— maxi dress outfits, oversized button down style, etc. Pin things based on what you have in your closet as opposed to what you want.

Where I shop— For a good deal and more unique finds I like to browse the thrift shops, no one is curating them so you can really encounter a wide variety of items. For easier browsing or when I’m hunting for something specific, my local consignment shops tend to come through (and these days their prices are pretty comparable to some of the thrift shops). If you are new to thrifting and secondhand shopping then consignment shops are a great entry point as they are more curated. When I’m looking for something extremely specific (a certain style of denim, a brand, a specific item like “denim skort” or an exact item like “tall Hunter boots”) I use eBay, Poshmark and Depop. Depop is my favorite of the three because it’s less overwhelming to me, seems to have a larger vintage offering (as opposed to more trendy or fast fashion items) and offers free shipping which is a nice bonus.

Materials matter— I have become extremely picky about the materials my clothes are made from, so now I always check the tag in search of items that are 100% natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk, etc).

Start a list— If you don’t yet have one, start a “thrift wishlist” in your nots app. You gotta make a thrift wishlist so the thrift Gods know your needs… I mean so you stay focused on what you are looking for. Give your list a look before you start your thrifting adventure. You can also create a thrift wishlist Pinterest board too!

Be open to all seasons— The thrift shops feature items for all seasons so be open to thinking about fall and winter as many folks have cleaned out their closets for summer and have dropped fall and winter items off.

Please tell me! Was this helpful at all? What are you excited to wear this summer?

I hope you feel energize to shop your closet and secondhand as you enjoy the many summer days ahead!

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Hello readers, and happy summer reading season!! I’m curious— do you find reading to be fairly consistent in your life? And/or do you notice times in the year when reading takes a bit of a dip?

Reading is a pretty consistent part of my life, but there are definitely times when I’m reading more, and times when I’m reading less. May was a bit of a reading slump month for me. I actually read some fantastic books, but the happenings through the month were not conducive to my typical reading cadence. My older boys (and husband, the coach) had looots of baseball games, the OKC Thunder were in the playoffs (which ate up my prime reading time— evenings), we hosted four adults for a weekend (which meant lots of food and house prep), and I poured a lot of time (happily!) into my BIG summer reading guide.

All things considered, I did get to binge a buzzy new beach read, start Elizabeth Strout’s brand-new release on Mother’s Day, read one of her oldest backlist titles, and read an incredible new novel as well as a wild memoir. I don’t mind a slower reading life so long as it means I’m using that time in other ways I want to (as opposed to scrolling life away, which is what drove me to strengthen my reading life in 2020). I am excited for a shift to summer reading and some fresh new reading energy after a busy month. But the big question is: what should I read first? Tell me! What are you reading to kick off summer?

Strangers by Belle Burden | wild!

This is a fascinating and infuriating memoir about a woman whose husband blindsides her by leaving her— and their three adolescent children— in the middle of peak COVID uncertainty for the younger woman he’d been having an affair with. Burden dives into all the details of the aftermath, the messy financial complications, and her ruptured identity in the process. What would you do if the person you have loved and thought you knew better than anyone, who you shared a life with, shatters everything you thought was real? This was truly wild.

Our Perfect Storm by Carly Fortune | overall enjoyed it

This story kicks off when Frankie’s fiancé dumps her on the morning of her wedding, and ohhhhh do I love a quick juicy hook in a romance story. Frankie’s best friend from childhood, George, joins her for what would have been her honeymoon in Tofino (oh gee wonder how that will play out?!). The setting was gorgeous, the relationship was one I enjoyed rooting for, and the side plots— rocky mother-daughter relationship, creative career pursuits, climate journalism— were a nice bonus. At times the story felt a bit juvenile to me, but that didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment as a fluffy beach read.

The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout | loved!

After a year of reading the majority of Strout’s backlist, I got to read her newest release, featuring an entirely new cast of characters (with a very subtle nod to ole Olive), and I loved it! Artie is a middle-aged high school history teacher who feels completely alone amidst the busy world that buzzes around him. But after both an unexpected event and a big family secret are revealed, his interior world completely shifts. Artie is a character who feels as real and relatable to me as my right hand. He will stick with me for a long while. This book is a beautiful depiction of Strout’s signature work as she peels back the layers of what makes us imperfectly human. If you have not yet read any of her books, this would be a perfect starting point.

Abide with Me by Elizabeth Strout | liked it

Venturing back to Strout’s sophomore novel, Abide with Me tells the story of a young widowed father and minister in a small Maine town. Similar to Olive Kitteridge and Anything Is Possible, this book reads like a collection of short stories featuring the various residents of the minister’s parish. While I ultimately enjoyed it, this was my least favorite of Strout’s novels. I listened to the audio, which I don’t think was the right format for it (I started it on audio a few months ago from my library and then had to circle back to it), so I may revisit the physical book someday to see if that offers a different experience.

Kin by Tayari Jones | loved!

This is a stunning book that is to be enjoyed slowly and thoughtfully, ideally with a highlighter in hand. Annie and Vernice grow up side-by-side in a small town in the American South without either of their mothers. Their paths diverge when Annie up and leaves in the middle of the night in search of the mother she’s never known while Vernice (whose mother was killed by her father as an infant) heads off to Spelman for college. The story is captivating, emotional, and in a league of its own. I loved this so much, and I hope to read Jones’ previous and highly praised novel, An American Marriage, very soon.

audio: I’m listening to Whistler by Ann Patchett (thanks to Libro.fm for the ARC) because Patchett narrates it herself! I am only a toe-dip in, but already enjoying Patchett’s delicious storytelling. I’m getting some light The Dutch House vibes from it.

physical book: I need to pick my next book and I actually have no idea what to choose! My BOTM box arrived yesterday (I chose Nymph by Sofia Montrone and Lovers XXX by Allie Rowbottom because I really enjoyed Aestehtica a few years ago) and I also ordered a few books from some Substacker recommendations on my summer reading guide from ’ book store, Wild Plum Books! I may start with one of those, but if you have a strong opinion, I’m open to receiving direction. 😂

Okay, but for real, what are you reading first this summer?!

Happy reading—

Want more bookish content? Here are some recent newsletters that have featured books and reading. I hope you find your next great read!

Books are linked through Bookshop.org. If you choose to purchase any, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. And I’ll likely spend any earnings on more books or salsa ingredients. :)

June means we have officially crossed the threshold into summer! While it’s tempting to make all the plans to fill up those long sunny days, what if we vow to leave a bit of margin? For slow mornings to enjoy pancakes on the deck, or bored afternoons where the game cabinet is raided and an old favorite is played on repeat, or a “fill the cooler with whatever is in the fridge” day at the lake and lingering till the late summer sunset in waterlogged skin. Or my personal favorite— turn on the sprinkler, put out a bowl of Hippeas and slabs of watermelon, and lounge in the hammock with a great book while the kids splash & snack.

This is set to be a special summer for us as my husband, who has worked at the Center for Employment Opportunities, a nonprofit that helps people coming out of prison find jobs, for 15 years, is enjoying a 3-month sabbatical, perfectly timed with our children’s summer. I’m so happy for him to have some time to power down his brain (he works so incredibly hard 😭) and to have this summer together as a family. Our kids are growing up faaaast, and I know we only have a few summers of littleness left with them. We have plans to do a bit of local travel (Montreal, New York City, western NY, maybe even coastal Maine or Cape Cod) and hopefully a visit out west to meet my new baby nephew (!!!), but in between that we plan to explore Vermont, enjoy a slower pace, lots of time at the pool and lake, and savor this time we get to be together. I feel so grateful!

Summer always reminds me of the importance of taking a break and keeping things a bit easier. And whether or not you get the summer off, I hope you find little pockets of slowness on hot days, a moment to take a few deep breaths, an early morning walk at sunrise, a little extra patience on the highway, or an evening of takeout pizza and chit chat until the sky goes dark. 2026 is almost halfway baked, but every day is an opportunity to name what matters to you and put it at the top of your list, in whatever way that looks. Let summer be your permission to live lightly.

Here’s a look at everything I’ve been Lovin’ Lately…

🌞 rhythms for a summer well spent. from

🍷 The Art of Romanticizing Your Daily Life from

👛 “A Post About a Beauty Sale Could Bring in as Much as $60,000” from of A Common Thread

👖 The Scandinavian Summer Wardrobe from

😯 The Female Body Was Not Designed for the Sex Most Women Are Having After 35 from

🍉 Nostalgic Summer Side Quests to Plan from

🗑️ The Most Sustainable Thing You Can Do Is...Nothing! from

In the comments: What are you MOST excited about for summer?! And what is the epitome of summer music to you?

Here’s to a sparkling summer, friends,

One last thing! If you have a moment and you enjoy these posts, would you kindly give this post a heart and/or a comment? Or share it with someone you cherish? These little efforts help me connect with others who may enjoy what I share here. xoxo

🗞️ curl up and read more from In Joy here

📌 visual inspiration for life and beyond

📱 find me online here

🩷 give someone the best gift ever!

Earlier this year, as winter was beginning to loosen its grip and the online world started chirping about spring, I felt both melancholy for the end of winter and excitement about the warmer months ahead. While I love the bright, warm, shimmering days of summer, I also really, really love the colder months and the joys of cozy living.

This mix of feeling…

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Summer reading is officially here!!! Which means it’s time to throw open the metaphorical shutters on the doors of our hungry little reading brains and feast upon the pages of books. Summer reading is also an invitation to nurture our inner 9-year-olds, still chasing the high of book fairs and pizza rewards, days spent lost in magical worlds, and walking home from the library with wagons full of books.

Just in time for the long weekend, swirl some lavender simple syrup into your iced bevy and lounge in your favorite hammock as you dive into my 50 summer book recommendations, 29 recommendations from treasured Substack voices, and an additional 20 books I am hoping to reach for this summer. Oh! And be sure to make your way to the end for some fun lil goodies.

This guide is chock-full of books to quench the summer reading thirst, wrapped up in all the fun that each of us— adults, children, and inner children— deserves in our reading lives. Try to spend your summer scrolling after getting to the end of this guide, I dare you.

Summer is the season of opportunity, the time to perch up anywhere with a book and a bowl of fresh fruit, to have a floppy paperback on you at all times (and definitely in your pool tote), and to enjoy hours lost to the pages of a book that you tasted as a child and never lost the craving for.

✿ a great smelling sunscreen— protect your precious skin!
✿ my favorite accessory is a bookish hat
✿ my favorite pair of polarized shades— protect your precious reading eyes
✿ she sells seashells (say it fast!) e-reader case
✿ the yummiest kombucha to quench your thirst & treat your gut
✿ the perfect pool day snack DOES exist!
✿ some sweet swimmies
✿ punch cards!
✿ a buzzy beach read that I recently enjoyed

Inspired by my old CDs and mix tapes, the categories for this year’s summer reading guide are grouped by nostalgic summer songs—songs that played on repeat with the windows down in my Toyota Corolla, reminiscent of that feeling when the day feels endless, and opportunity feels abundant. I hope you find your next great read along with a bit of musical nostalgia to summers past…

Books that feel like the yearning to stretch and grow, reaching towards the warm sun. But also the Earth cracking open and finding your way from one side to the other, changed forevermore.

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy— Set on a remote island between Antarctica and Australia, where one of the world’s last seed banks remains, a father and his three children encounter an unexpected guest who washes ashore. This one leans thriller, but with so much more emotional depth and atmospheric details about nature and marine life.

The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers— I read this several years ago and think it’s far too underrated. A young girl spends a summer with her aunt in the American South during the boom of big tobacco and a critical moment in women’s rights and American history.

The Rural Diaries by Hilary Burton Morgan— Spend your summer in the country and learn why Hilary Burton Morgan traded in her celebrity status for a simple farm life and homegrown veggies. This memoir is delightful on audio, too.

Kin by Tayari Jones— Another story set in the American South that follows two young girls who spent their childhood together as their paths diverge. An emotionally charged book about mothers and daughters, sisters and friends, and so much more.

Tilt by Emma Pattee— A woman is 37 weeks pregnant at her local Ikea in Portland, OR, when a massive earthquake strikes, leaving her to fend for herself in the immediate hours of the earthquake.

Introspective books that take you on a journey of personal healing and forgiveness, like long days spent in a hammock with time to contemplate our deepest feelings.

The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff— A woman, at the end of her life, decides to take her death into her own hands, and her husband plans to join her. This is a story about the choices we make, the relationships we keep, and who we become on the other side of it all. But mostly it’s a story about love, in all forms.

Sandwich by Catherine Newman— If you haven’t read any of Catherine Newman’s books yet, this is a perfect place to start. It’s a heartfelt and hilarious snapshot of middle-aged Rocky’s week at the beach with her husband, two children, and aging parents, and all her internal thoughts about her past.

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler— This book follows a woman, her ex-husband, and her daughter three days before and after her daughter’s wedding. It’s a reflective story about marriage, family, and heartache told in a relatable yet personal way that feels like a gentle breeze on a warm day.

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans— I had my reservations about this book, featuring an elderly woman’s correspondence to people in her life and beyond, but it absolutely blew me away and would be a perfect read to enjoy by an open window or in a hammock.

What You Are Looking For is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama— Five stories of small yet significant turning points in each character’s life that are all connected to the interactions they have at one very special library.

Fizzy, carefree, endless summer days full of enjoyment, girlhood, and maybe getting into a bit of trouble.

Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau— Set in 1960s Baltimore, Mary Jane takes on a nanny job for a quirky and radical family and is introduced to a whole new way of living. I loved this book and its imperfect characters.

Summer of ‘69 by Elin Hilderbrand— One of my favorite Hilderbrand books— historical fiction laced in drama as we spend one summer in 1969 with a variety of storylines and perspectives.

The Guest by Emma Cline— Set on Long Island, a woman without money or a car, swindles her way through one place to the next to get by and stay afloat. The tone is ominous and uncomfortable, which made me appreciate the comfort of my own little life in a whole new light.

The Summer Job by Lizzy Dent— A woman takes on her friend's sommelier job (even though she knows very little about wine) in the Scottish highlands for a summer and unexpectedly finds herself (and romance) while pretending to be someone else.

Happy Hour by Marlow Granados— This book, about two young girls in their 20s navigating the glitz and glamour of New York one summer, surprised me in the best ways! This is all vibes, very little plot, but that’s exactly what I loved about it, I felt like I was living in the moment with them.

“Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up,” and these stories air out the complexities of adult life like underwear drying on the line.

All Adults Here by Emma Straub— I read this in the summer of 2020 and have fond feelings for it when I think about summer books. Set in a small town and full of messy family drama that will keep you turning pages from the comfort of your beach towel.

Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson— I enjoyed this delightfully entertaining peek inside the lives of a wealthy family in Brooklyn Heights and all the drama that unfolds in their lives. There was unanticipated depth and self-reflection that pleasantly surprised me.

The Most by Jessica Anthony— It’s unseasonably warm one November day in 1957, and a woman, grappling with her role as a wife and mother, gets into her apartment swimming pool and refuses to get out.

Commonwealth by Ann Patchett— This is a multifaceted family drama from the queen herself that I couldn’t read fast enough last summer. There is grief and heartache as two families merge together and navigate a new normal.

The Wedding People by Alison Espach— A woman, fed up with the reality of her life and wanting to end it, gets unexpectedly mixed into a weekend wedding at the Rhode Island hotel where she was staying. Relationships with the wedding party, bride, and groom emerge and flip everything on its head.

Chaotic, unhinged, and a little crazy— but we all have our reasons, don’t we?

Aesthetica by Allie Rowbottom— A cautionary tale about how far we will go for vanity and the long-term consequences of our choices. If you like Black Mirror, you will enjoy this book.

Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield— As weird as it sounds, a woman returns from a deep-sea mission completely changed. This book gave me dreams (nightmares?) about being lost in the deep ocean in the most bizarre way possible.

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore— This campy, buzzy book set in 1975 is about the wealthy family that owns a summer camp in the Adirondacks and their 13-year-old daughter who goes missing.

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke— The book of the moment! I flew through the pages, and while I have many thoughts about it, I still believe this story of a tradwife who ends up back in the 1800s deserves a spot on your summer reading shelf. It’s quite fun to talk about!

Cover Story by Susan Rigetti— I flew through this con-artist story set in New York City and told through FBI transcripts, letters, diary entries, and more. It feels like a true crime story that the reader gets to piece together.

Books that capture the scope of heartache in every form, because you can’t have the sweet without the sour, and sometimes, too much sizzling summer fun makes you crave something with a little bite to it.

Loved One by Aisha Muharrar— A love story that was always on the cusp of something more, and a woman’s journey through grief and healing. This is not your typical romance, which is exactly what I enjoyed about it.

Heart the Lover by Lily King— This book just checks all the boxes— it’s beautifully written, captivating, and heartbreaking. It’s a story of love, loss, and youthful innocence.

Strangers by Belle Burden— Without warning, a man leaves his family during the early days of COVID for the woman he’s been having an affair with, leaving his wife and family completely stunned. This memoir is utterly wild and infuriating.

Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe— Oh, how I loved this smart and quirky story of Margo, a college student who becomes pregnant and starts an OnlyFans account to help make ends meet.

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams— Two writers reconnect 20 years after a sizzling week together. Can they overcome the heartache from the past? This is a steamy and emotional love story perfect for a hot summer day.

A few of my favorite sun-soaked love stories for easy breezy days at the beach because sometimes you just need “a feeling like this” on a blue-skied summer day.

Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle— Daphne receives a note every time a new relationship begins that reveals how long the relationship will last, until she gets one note that doesn’t include a date, only a name. I devoured this book like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day!

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry— The queen of rom-coms’ latest and greatest, which includes a fun historical fiction twist as two writers compete for the opportunity to write the biography for a mysterious heiress and tabloid princesses who left the limelight behind.

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest— A woman engaged in back-and-forth email correspondence with a mysterious author, only to end up unexpectedly ghosted. Then a handsome neighbor moves into her building, and he just so happens to be the mysterious author, but she doesn’t yet know…

Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan— Nora, a recently divorced mom of two, opens up her home to become the set of the script she wrote, including the handsome A-list celebrity who reads like Matthew McConaughey.

This Summer Will Be Different by Carly Fortune— An ode to Anne of Green Gables as Lucy returns to Prince Edward Island and the history she has with her best friend’s brother. It’s a(n oyster) shucking good time.

Every summer mix tape needs an emo dip to keep things in balance. Someone will wind up dead, but thrills give us chills when the heat is oppressive.

Murder on Devil’s Pond by Ayla Rose— A cozy mystery set at a small town bed and breakfast in Vermont as the newest owner tries to solve the crime of the local curmudgeon’s (and coveted property owner’s) death.

My Husband’s Wife by Alice Feeney— When Eden returns home after going on a run, she returns to her house to find another woman claiming to be her husband’s wife, and her husband has never seen her before. This is the perfect twisty book to fly through while lounging by the pool.

Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino— This story, about the lengths we will go to get the dream life we always wanted, in a housing market that is an absolute circus, is uncomfortably relatable.

The Reformatory by Tananarive Due— Set in Jim Crow Florida in the summer of 1950, a little boy is sent to the local reformatory, where horrific things endure, and I’m not even talking about the ghosts.

Everyone is Lying to You by Jo Piazza— A tradwife influencer murder mystery that pulls back the curtain of everything you thought you knew about the gram. If you enjoyed Yesteryear, give this a go.

Books that show us what happens when we step off the path and venture into the unknown, for better or for worse.

The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller— A heartbreaking story about generational trauma and one woman’s history with the family summer home that brings her back to her childhood friend year after year.

Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson— A woman, from an affluent Black family, encounters the connections between a tragedy from her family’s past and the centuries-old family heirloom.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett— I loved this multigenerational family drama about a pair of siblings and their past and present life coming from, and falling from, wealth in connection to their father and his choices.

City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert— At 95-years-old, Vivian retells the story of her time in New York City, in the 1940s, during World War 2 and finding herself in unfamiliar places. This book has lived rent-free in my brain since I read it in 2022.

James by Percival Everett— A reimagining of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn through the lens of James, a slave. Everett pairs the journey to freedom with unexpected adventure.

Summer is BIG energy, so page through a book that is futuristic, otherworldly, and larger than life as we know it.

Annie Bot by Sierra Greer— Annie is an AI relationship bot who begins to develop consciousness and yearns for independence. This book asks readers to consider: What makes us uniquely human?

Parable of the Sower by Octavio E. Butler— It’s 2024, and the world has devolved to madness and chaos as fires wreak havoc on the land, and order is no more. After a devastating fire, a woman is forced to flee the only community she has ever known while believing that there is a means to a better future.

Baby X by Kira Peikoff— In the future, technology allows embryos to be created using any form of another person’s DNA, and celebrities are prime targets. A famous singer is confronted by a pregnant woman who claims that he is the father of her baby.

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel— With multiple timelines from both the past and future, time travel opens the door of opportunity to change the timeline of the future. A fantastical story that feels like late nights reading in bed with a flashlight as a kid.

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami— A new mom to twins elects for technology that allows her to get a full night’s sleep in less time. But, this also means that her dreams have become data, and that data is used to hold her in extended detention with seemingly no way out.

Titles hot off the press this summer that have me singing “A Place in This World” on my way to the bookstore because these authors have a place in my book world…

The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson (June 30)— “An ambitious young woman insinuates herself into a tight-knit social set, shaking up friendships and marriages in a small seaside town. A frothy novel of love, money, sex, and friendship, from the New York Times bestselling author of Pineapple Street.”

Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel (September 17)— “2031. America is at war with itself, but for the first time in weeks there is some good news: the Republic of California has been declared, the curfew in Los Angeles is lifted, and everyone in the city is going to a party.”

Whistler by Ann Patchett (June 2)— “Whistler is a story about two adults looking back over the choices they made, and the choices that were made for them. It’s a story about bravery, memory, the often small yet consequential moments that define our lives, and the endless stream of loss that in time comes for us all. Beautiful in its simplicity, it is ultimately about how love endures, and how the feeling of being known by one other person, even for a short period of time, can change everything.”

Hot Girl Murder Club by Ashley Winstead (July 14)— “A slew of targeted murders makes headlines across LA, all pointing to aspiring singer-actress Scout as the killer, she turns overnight from a mid-tier pop star into the world’s most famous (alleged) murderer. Now everything she’s worked to build—including the justice she wants for Georgia—will fall apart unless Scout can prove she’s not guilty.”

The Missed Connection by Tia Williams (June 9)— “When Sasha’s seated next to a mysterious, broodingly handsome Italian man on the way to a work trip in Paris, sparks fly – but they miss the chance to exchange contact information. Now, convinced that she’s lost out on her soulmate, Sasha is on a manhunt to find Seat F.”

Summer is for nostalgia, and you’re never too old to revisit the books that feel like childhood.

Goosebumps: Welcome to Camp Nightmare by R.L. Stine— I have many fond memories of reading Goosebumps every chance I had, and wouldn’t it be a treat to step back into that eerie world and forget about, well, our current eerie world?!

Island of the Blue Dolphin by Scott O’Dell— I first read this book in 4th grade and re-read it one summer in my 20s when I was a teacher and was surprised to discover that I loved it just as much as I did as a child. It’s the early 1800s, on the gorgeous San Nicolas Island. A girl named Karana is left behind and spends eighteen years alone.

Matilda by Roald Dahl— Who can’t relate to Matilda’s love for books, magic, and harnessing her power in a world stacked against her? As a child, I loved the book and the adaptation, and as a parent, I loved reading the book to my own children many summers ago and watching the adaptation with them. It’s time for a re-read!

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume— Where would so many of us be without this book in our childhood when someone pressed it into your hand and said, “A guide, my dear,” and in the pages you felt seen? Reading this again feels like spraying SunIn in my hair and the smell of fresh cut grass.

The Babysitter’s Club: Kristy’s Great Idea by Ann M. Martin— Could my childhood affection for reading The Babysitter’s Club be the root of my entrepreneurial spirit? Wouldn’t it be delicious to revisit our younger selves through characters we once knew so intimately?!

To include a wider array of book recommendations for you to sink into this summer, I called in the pros— some of my very favorite book recommenders and writers— to share a favorite summer book and their thoughts. Opportunity abounds, like a one-way ticket, with these top-tier summer reading recommendations. I’m confident there is something here for everyone!

P.S. I also enjoy reading these writers’ publications, so do check out what they create, too!

of You’ve Got Lauren recommends Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman

Few books capture the atmosphere of summer and the ache of falling in love as vividly as this one. Aciman writes with such emotional precision that you’re brought back to a time when desire felt all-consuming and a single glance from the right person could alter the entire shape of a day.

of A Common Thread recommends Into the Blue by Emma Brodie

This book absolutely wrecked me (complimentary). It has all the right elements for a summer read: romance (not the cheesy kind), intense yearning (this book is hot, lol), heartbreak, family drama, soulmates, cosmic connection, early 2000s nostalgia, and incredibly relatable characters. It’s such a satisfying and addictive read! I couldn’t put it down and I was so sad when it was over.

of Readable Moments recommends Summers at Castle Auburn by Sharon Shinn

I adore Sharon Shinn’s work and this standalone is what got me hooked to her work. It’s a medieval fantasy filled with court politics and intrigue and magical creatures; every character has depth. And Shinn’s lyrical writing never fails to completely transport me.

of ChickLits recommends Go Gentle by Maria Semple

This novel lit me up in the most wondrous ways. Do I want to become a Stoic? Do I want to start a coven? Do I want to move to New York and wear oversized dresses? I’m definitely open to all of it because I want to be the main character, Adora Hazzard, when I grow up. Philosophy, romance and an art heist? Perfection.

P.S. Elyse is the owner of the bookshop Wild Plum Books, if you need to pick up any new books ;)

of Seasonal Things recommends Kakigori Summer by Emily Itami

At the start of Kakigori Summer, three far flung sisters retreat to their rural hometown after a crisis. They while away a summer full of cooking together, beach days and kakigori (shaved ice). I love the book’s focus on the deep friendship between sisters, its touching perspective on life in a small town and how it whisks you away to seaside Japan.

of Literary Leanings recommends The Summer Demands by Deborah Shapiro

This book captures, so perfectly, the feeling of a long, languid summer. Emily and her husband David move to an abandoned New England summer camp they inherit from her aunt, where they spend the summer recovering from a miscarriage and trying to tame the wild landscape. Emily, on the cusp of her fortieth birthday, forms an intense friendship with Stella, a 22 year-old, allowing Shapiro to explore aging, ambition, and identity with incredible sharpness. This novel perfectly blends a summer setting, smart commentary, and a thread of mystery that keeps you turning pages.

of Happy on Purpose recommends The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

This is a delightfully charming series of 8 diaries “penned” by twenty-something Emma, who lives in a fictional part of London in the late 1800s. Dear Emma (I feel like I know her!) is an orphan who has suffered heartbreak, but she approaches her challenges with a plucky attitude, resourcefulness, and good humor. She attends fancy tea parties and balls, keeps up with friends, worries over her finances, and forms several promising dalliances with eligible bachelors. These books are beautifully written, easy to read, and comforting: perfect for beach days--or cozy winter evenings!

of A Strong Cup of Tea recommends Starry and Restless by Julia Cooke

Starry and Restless is a triumphant triple biography of three female journalists who reported around the world during the 20th century: Emily “Mickey” Hahn, Rebecca West, and Martha Gellhorn. Cooke’s book, and its many adventures, will captivate you.

of Earth & Verse recommends: A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers

Becky Chambers’ positive view of the future is just the kind of hopecore we need right now. A book about an unexpected friendship between a tea monk and a wild robot that will change how you see humanity for the better. P.S. Alix is also the author of the book Quietly Wild: Poems, Photographs, and Rituals to Mark the Seasons, which would also make a wonderful seasonal read!

of The Seasonalist recommends Change of Plans by Sarah Dessen

Sarah Dessen is the Queen of YA, and hasn’t published a new book in 7 years. She is one of my favorite YA authors (her entire backlist is incredible, along with a few move adaptations). Per Simon & Shuster, “Change of Plans” (released May 5th, 2026), is about “an unassuming girl who learns to stand on her own while falling in love during a life-changing summer.” YES, PLEASE! I have high hopes for this one.

of Torie Talking recommends The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer

This book is buoyant and hopeful, yet packed with useful and impactful frameworks and examples for rethinking how we (co)exist in the world and engage with its many gifts. It inspired me, informed me, and challenged me, and it’s a book I’ll recommend any chance I get!

of As of Late recommends: Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood

This is the ultimate Sicilian escape, with forced proximity and a tasteful age gap that makes for an addictive “will-they-won’t-they” romance. It’s lighthearted yet emotionally charged, with a story that has real depth and sizzling chemistry that keeps you turning the pages.

of Life with Books recommends The Offing by Benjamin Myers

Benjamin Myers shared he wrote The Offing for his own mental health – and to bring more sunshine and positivity into a divided world in 2019... and oh, that still feels so necessary right now. With echoes of Laurie Lee, it feels like a warm and safe place to rest your weary body, mind, and soul, with good food, conversation, and unexpected kindness to bring you back to life. Read it and feel revitalised.

of Things I Read and Mostly Liked recommends The Social Circle by Sophie Wan

I spent most of my summers at camp, and so much of what I consider a great summer read is driven by that: easy enough to pick up and put down between activities, compelling enough to stay awake through rest hour, and enough fun that I want to share it with all my friends so that we can talk about it. To me, that’s The Social Circle -- we’ve got millennial nostalgia, corporate intrigue, first loves, second chance romance, rich people behaving badly, forced proximity -- all told through the lens of the creation of a Facebook-type company that may or may not be a great actor in the broader sense of the world. I hope this book gets more hype -- it’s one of my favorites of the year so far, and I feel like it has all the makings of a great summer read.

of Reads with Alicia recommends The Gift of Rain by Tan Tan Eng

This historical fiction is set in humid 1939 Penang, Malaya (now Malaysia), which is a fantastic setting to immerse yourself in during the warm summer months. The story follows a young man as he struggles to honour his fierce loyalties and layered identities while navigating the very real conflicts brought by the British and Japanese occupations of his homeland.

of Friday Night Readers recommends Summer Sisters by Judy Blume

Out of the dozens (hundreds?!) of summer books I’ve read over the years, I wanted to select just one backlist title (for easy access!) that paired two of my favorite things: Gilmore Girls and Martha’s Vineyard. I landed on Summer Sisters by none other than Judy Blume--also a Read with Jenna book club pick. In this juicy adult coming-of-age friendship novel we get every angsty, yearning thing we expect from one of Lorelai’s and April’s favorite authors, woven into a coastal elite New England setting.

of Mama Eats recommends Three Summers by Margarita Liberaki

A Greek classic from the 1940s, this beautiful coming of age tale of three adolescent sisters takes place over three summers in the Greek countryside. Not very plot driven, more of a mood, in beautiful prose that unfolds with the ease and languorous pace of a hot summer’s day--dreamlike, atmospheric, and with the bittersweetness of girls becoming women and realizing the both beautiful and terrible realities of the world they are coming into. Family secrets, romance, and the beauty of the Mediterranean summer make this a perfect summer book.

of Cozy Pursuits with Kylin Anne recommends Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage

I’m thrilled to have another opportunity to talk about this book, because I’ve mentioned it in my own newsletter... probably too many times. It’s the first cowboy romance I ever read and it started me on a hyper fixation that is still ongoing. The love story and friend/family relationships are sweet (plus there is no third-act breakup, bless!), but it’s the ranch in the mountains of Wyoming where the book is set that makes it the perfect summer read.

of Well Seasoned recommends The Guest List by Lucy Foley

I typically gravitate toward dense and intense works of literature (it’s the English major in me), but as soon as summer hits, bring on the beach reads! I live for a good thriller, and am especially fond of Lucy Foley’s books since she always has the best, most atmospheric settings in her stories. “The Guest List” is an addictive whodunnit about a murder that takes place at a glamorous wedding on a remote Irish island. It keeps you guessing until the very end, as all proper thrillers should!

of Petal + Hearth recommends We Would Never Tell by Anne-Sophie Jouhanneau

A thriller set at the Cannes Film Festival. First of all, the backdrop of the French Riviera is sooooo summer. Second, it was a page turner. The story is so gripping, I finished it in just a few days!

of First Rodeo recommends The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

Elin Hilderbrand is the QUEEN of beach reads, and with the TV adaptation of The Five-Star Weekend coming out in July (starring Jennifer Garner, Chloe Sevigny and Regina Hall), it’s the perfect time to pick up (or re-read) the original. This book is a multi-POV that tells the tale of a food influencer who hosts a Nantucket weekend for friends from different life stages to navigate grief, friendship, and hidden truths... but like all of Elin Hilderbrand’s books, the setting is summer incarnate and the portrayal of the very-human characters and descriptions of delicious food are the real reasons to read.

recommends Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan

This book made me FEEL something so deeply, especially as a mom raising a teenage daughter. I love that the MC found her voice again, and found herself. It was romantic, but not spicy - more like gives you butterflies! Loved this quote from the book, “I have the sense that I have stepped into my very best self. I feel warm and generous, as if the love I’m letting myself feel is touching everything around me.”

of Sandra Pop recommends The Eight by Katherine Neville

I read this over 30 years ago and it’s STILL an amazing book that sucks you in completely. It has everything: an ancient mystery, adventure, romance, dual timelines, and a well-developed story spread generously over 600 pages involving Charlemagne, nuns, the French Revolution, computers, and chess. Total justification to ignore your adult responsibilities, find a hammock under a tree, and read the day away.

of The Quiet Hours recommends The Force of Such Beauty by Barbara Bourland

For something with a bit more heft that you’ll still race through poolside, I highly recommend this story of the dark side of being a part of the royal family. There is a lot of grit here and it and really makes you rethink the fairytale we’ve all been sold of being a princess. And a bonus? The last page of this book completely shocked me!

of Overbooked Mama recommends Franny and Zooey by J. D. Salinger

This is one of Salinger’s novellas that I think is the perfect foray into classic literature for anyone who feels a bit disillusioned by the current state of society. There’s both a sadness and comfort in Franny’s coming-of-age existential crisis. Zooey’s attempts to answer his sister’s questions about the world make for some entertaining dialogue with their mother, Bessie, and will have you highlighting line after line!

of Things that Make me Happy! recommends One & Only by Maurene Goo

This book has a little bit of magical realism, compelling characters and a beautiful love story. I would venture to say it’s the perfect book to take to a pool, the beach or a picnic in the park. I was completely immersed even as a non-romance reader.

of Paranthetical recommends Mayra by Nicky Gonzalez

Mayra was one of my favorite debuts from last year that largely flew under the radar. A slightly speculative take on the classic Southern Gothic horror, this book plays with time and memory a lot, and explores the uneasy but formative bonds teenage girls forge, and how the past itself can become a haunted house. It’s perfect for summer because the lush, oppressive Florida heat almost becomes a character in and of itself. Perfect if you’re looking for something a bit creepy alongside your beach reads.

of Literary Merit recommends The All-Night Sun by Diane Zinna

Set over the course of a summer in Sweden, this underrated gem tells the story of what happens when a lonely professor agrees to accompany her student on their trip home. This novel’s themes of grief, friendship, and boundaries, along with its rich atmosphere, make it the perfect pick for someone wanting a thoughtful and original summer read.

of Subverse Reads recommends Lives of the Saints by Nancy Lemann

What we need now more than ever is a return to the aimless years of youth - the years without cell phones, when we spent time together in the sweltering heat of a drunken wedding or getting fired from a bad job or talking until sunrise. Lemann’s rediscovered 1980s novel of a young college grad returning home to New Orleans is both a beguiling character study and a hilariously deadpan take on home, love, finding yourself, and avoiding nervous breakdowns. Just under 200 pages, this paperback is perfect for finishing in one long, languid day of summer.

And! A few books on my own summer TBR because this summer all I wanna do is read… I created this list prior to gathering recommendations from my Substack friends and after reading their recommendations, I have many more books I want to add to my list (HBU?!).

Now it’s time to have some fun because what is summer reading without Fun with a capital F?!

A call-back to pizza-motivated reading challenges— punch cards for readers! Every time you complete a reading-centered effort, punch it out, stamp it, sticker it, or check it off. Complete a card and celebrate with a special treat. Do them all, share them with a child or friend, but most of all-- have a blast.

DOWNLOAD THE PUNCH CARD PRINTABLE!

Oh, and check out last year’s summer reading kit in the printable hub for even more fun trackers and resources to print off and enjoy.

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And that’s a wrap!! If you haven’t already, create a summer reading TBR for yourself right now. In your notes app, planner, or on a scrap sheet of paper, start a list of books you want to crack open this summer. Let it build excitement for the reading months ahead and be a loose guide for your reading choices.

Here’s to sunshine and your next great read—

Wait! One last thing! If you enjoyed this— and I really hope you did— the best way to support my work is to become a paid subscriber, which compensates me for my time creating content like this (for context, I worked on this guide for over 3 weeks, it’s 100% human made, and I spent a large portion of Mother’s Day weekend working on it 🩷) and ensures I can keep creating here. For less than the price of an iced coffee, you can unlock all paid subscriber perks and support what I do. The next best way to support me is to help me reach other readers who will value what I create. Thank you for considering. ☺️

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When life is feeling maxxed out, or exhausting, or a bit stale (as it so often can after a long winter), the world offers us an infinite scroll of solutions— things, products, courses, coaching— designed to swoop in with a hit of dopamine as we push a button to feel a sense of temporary relief: I am conquering a problem, I am getting my life in order, I…

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We are on the cusp of summer reading, which means the internet is about to be bursting with summer reading guides— lucky us! Even though I’m committed to reading mostly books already on my shelves this summer, I still plan to pick up a few new buzzy summer books and indulge in all the summer reading guides because I live for the anticipation of joy, and summer reading is top-tier joy to me. And yes, you can expect a summer reading something from me in the coming weeks, too— printables, book lists, all the fun.

Today, I’m sharing a few thoughts about how I’m thinking about summer reading this year, along with my thoughts on everything I read in April, which includes the internet’s most popular book at the moment, more Elizabeth Strout, a book about money (!!!), a book I read for my book club, a book about rural living, the unread fiction book I’ve had on my shelf the longest, and a book about a 10 year affair. Let’s get into it…

Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout | loved it!

As soon as I finished Olive Kitteridge, I immediately jumped into Olive, Again, which is an unheard of move for me because I’m usually itching for a lane change when I finish a book. I think I loved Olive, Again even more than Olive Kitteridge. Olive has softened up a bit, and there are a lot of changes in Crosby, Maine, and Olive’s world that we get to navigate with her. These books are stories of everyday life with layers peeled away to expose what it means to be human, even in a simple life. Don’t let the leaves on the cover fool you; this is a book that can be enjoyed in any season, and I have come to do the majority of my Strout reading in the spring.

The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali | powerful, loved.

I read this for my neighborhood book club, and it was an excellent pick that generated a rich discussion. Elle and Homa are best friends, coming of age in the 1950s and 60s in Iran. It’s a powerful story about women, friendship, culture, history, sacrifice, and how we show up for the people who matter most to us. I learned a lot about Iranian politics, culture, and history, and in light of current events, I’m so glad I did. The ending brought me to tears. I hope to read The Stationery Shop, also by Kamali.

The Rural Diaries by Hilary Burton Morgan | enjoyed!

This is a book I’ve been wanting to read for a few years, and spring seemed like the perfect time to prioritize it. I remember Hilary from the MTV TRL VJ (so many acronyms!) contest way back in the day, and it was enjoyable to read her memoir on starting a family and actualizing a dream of living in the country. I listened to the audio, which was brought to life by her enthusiastic voice, but there were also heavier moments that she approached thoughtfully. It’s not a book that will stick with me (though I’ll never forget the pumpkin rolling down the hill scene… IYKYK), but I’m still glad I read it.

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel | enjoyed!

This book came on my radar after watching a handful of YouTube videos about frugal living and money mindsets, and it piqued my interest. I’ve seen a lot of money books and never really given them much consideration, but this one delves into the topic of psychology, which, in our current uber rich 1% culture, is something I do find fascinating. Overall, I really enjoyed it and the way the author differentiated wealthy vs rich. It was a quick read with some great takeaways and not too heavy on the investing jargon (though there is a touch of it). It was a great listen on audio while I was decluttering.

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke | I have thoughts…

The book of the moment!! I love a book that gets people talking, and this one, about a “tradwife influencer” who winds up back in the 1800s, certainly does just that. Eager to sort out what was happening, I flew through the pages and found myself thinking of it when I wasn’t reading it, which is always a quality I value in a book. If you haven’t read it, I won’t give too much away or try to sway you one way or another, but ultimately, I couldn’t grasp onto any one aspect of this book and had more questions than answers by the end. shared a review that resonated with my own reading experience, and I left some thoughts in the comments if you want to go a little deeper. I felt like this book tackled a lot of current cultural themes at once, and as if they were all piñatas, the author beat each one down as aggressively as possible. Nonetheless, I’ll be excited to see the adaptation with Anne Hathaway. Have you read it yet? What did you think??

The Ten Year Affair by Erin Sommers | enjoyed!

At first, I wasn’t sure this book was for me, but I’m glad I kept reading because things kept getting messier, and I ultimately couldn’t look away. The book is exactly as the title implies: a ten-year “affair,” with all the mundane aspects of life happening in the foreground, and I was interested to see how things would play out for the two couples. This book asks the question: What happens when our fantasies are actualized? Do we really get what we want? And I thought the author did a great job exploring that in a way that genuinely felt realistic.

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary | enjoyed!

This is the fiction book I have had on my shelf the longest! After spring cleaning my bookshelves, I decided it was now or never, and I’m glad I went with now because I enjoyed this romance between characters who share a flat, bed, and all! The concept was unique for a romance (I could never share a bed with a stranger, but good for her!) with a bit of an epistolary style to it in the form of notes and phone calls. I enjoyed the side plots, and while there were some heavier themes (an emotionally abusive ex and a wrongly imprisoned sibling), it still felt all around easy breezy and cute. I will be picking up more of O’Leary’s work.

This summer, I’m committed to reading from my shelves to tackle my physical TBR. But one thing I know about myself as a reader, I’m more likely to stick to my reading goals when I’m lightly scratching the buzzy book itch. To keep my reading life feeling fresh, I turn to Book of the Month (the sponsor of today’s post1). Book of the Month’s mission focuses on the best new fiction, which makes it easy breezy for me to confidently pick up a new book to spend my time with— many of my favorite books have come from Book of the Month! Knowing I’ll be able to read a few fresh new releases, in addition to a stack of backlist titles on my shelf, will help me stay on course with my reading intentions this summer.

BOTM’s May book selection already has me eager for sun-soaked days full of reading. My first May pick was Our Perfect Storm by Carly Fortune. I read and loved This Summer Will Be Different by Fortune last summer (also a BOTM book), and my summer TBR is never complete without a summery romance, and this one sounds juicy. I also picked up The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff, which is about a family navigating the aftermath of a house fire, and it sounds like a captivating summer drama, which I also crave in my summer reading diet.

Head to Book of the Month to check out all of the May book offerings (lots of good ones this month!) and get your first book for $5 plus a free mini tote with code FLORAL!

audio: All audiobook opportunities have been surrendered to the new Noah Kahan album, but I’m hoping to start either The Strangers by Belle Burden or Abide With Me by Elizabeth Strout.

physical book: I am about 60 pages into Kin by Tayari Jones. I’ve heard many wonderful things about this book. I’m ready for a really good fiction book. I have high hopes!

In the comments, please share: What have you read and enjoyed lately?

I plan to share a summer reading post very very soon!!

Happy reading—

Want more bookish content? Here are some recent newsletters that have featured books and reading. I hope you find your next great read!

Books are linked through Bookshop.org. If you choose to purchase any, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. And I’ll likely spend any earnings on more books or salsa ingredients. :)

Happy May! It’s a proper rainy spring day today, and I find this weather so cozy. I have a candle going and rainy day jazz ambiance keeping me company in the background. This morning, I picked up some flowers and Trader Joe’s fresh blooms hand cream for each of my children’s teachers in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week. Please be sure to thank a teacher in whatever way you can this week. Teachers deserve all the love and appreciation; they are amazing.

May is the calm before the summer soirée. It’s the month of flowers and gentle breezes, restocking sunscreen and watching life paint the landscape with strokes of colorful buds and abundant greenery. This is the time to grab a pencil and paper and draft out all the things you want to do this summer— even if you don’t get to all of them, pull them from your brain and write them down before the moment slips by. Make a stack of books you want to read, and meals you want to enjoy. Purchase tickets to a concert or plan a road trip to see a friend or a new place. An intentional summer starts with a moment to consider how you want to spend the warm days ahead.

My kids are in school till mid June, but from here on out, the days take on a relaxed tone (though our schedules never seem to relent) as the laid-back energy of summer begins to seep towards us, stretching its arms like a greeting from a long-lost friend. We lean into it by spending a day in the sun gardening, followed by a lazy afternoon watching a family movie. By having a slow morning at home before buzzing around to weekend sports events. May is both excitement and ease. May we find the balance in both, as the last full month of spring reminds us that many of life’s joys come from the anticipation of what’s ahead.

Here’s a look at everything I’ve been Lovin’ Lately…

I have not finished this yet, but what I have seen I have very much enjoyed. My daughter is in a BIG Taylor Swift phase right now (wonder how that happened?!) and she loves to strum her ukulele and sing, so it’s fun to learn more about Taylor’s creative process.:

VISIT THE PRINTABLES HUB

💐 Two perfect Mother’s Day craft ideas for the mother figures in your life: queen portraits and pipe cleaner flowers from Art Bar!

🧠 Understanding money ruined shopping for me in the best way. from and a shout out to a book that also rewired my brain’s relationship to spending, too.

🐚 of Literary Leanings has released a small batch of beautifully designed kindle cases, if you are in the market! They are so lovely.

📖 Books that feel like spring cleaning for the mind from

🌱 I collaborated with to share a list of 12 simple sustainable living swaps for a healthier body, home and planet!

📚 What to Read Next, Based on Your Favorite 90s/00s Rom-Com from

🛍️ “A Post About a Beauty Sale Could Bring in as Much as $60,000” of A Common Thread dives into the world of affiliate links and asks me why I choose not to use them…

💰 I Want Money To Be The Quietest Thing In My Life from

I was honored to do two guest interviews with two of my favorite Substackers & ! With Kyli, I chatted all things cozy— from how sustainability factors into a cozy lifestyle, to habits, rituals, and little ways to inject joy into the everyday. With Lauren, I chatted about creativity, comparison, grace & my go-to quick dinner. I had the best time reflecting on the wonderful questions they each presented me with. Pop by and show them both some love!

In the comments: When does summer officially start for you? And how are you planning to savor the soft, romantic days of spring before the energy ramps up for summer?

Thank you so much for subscribing and reading. It means so much to me that you take the time— truly.

Wishing you all a May full of flowers, sunshine, cozy rainy days, and ease—

One last thing! If you have a moment, and you enjoy these posts, would you kindly give this post a heart and/or a comment? Or share it with someone you cherish? These little efforts help me connect with others who may enjoy what I share here. xoxo

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Happy Friday! I’ve got music and movies top of mind as my husband and I head to the theater tonight to see Project Hail Mary (we both read the book!), and Noah Kahan’s highly anticipated 4th album, The Great Divide, just dropped. 🥲

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