Happy Friday!
We are officially a few days into summer break and have already packed a lot into the first week. There has been plenty of pool time, popsicles, sleepovers, and absolutely no interest in bedtimes anymore.
I always forget how quickly summer settles into its own rhythm. The days feel slower, but somehow the calendar fills up even faster. We’re soaking it all in while also gearing up for camp drop-off next week, which means my dining room is currently covered in camp gear and packing lists.
Before we get into this week’s favorites, don’t forget to check out this week’s newsletter covering the last day of school, panic-cleaning, turning 40, and lots more. Don’t miss it!
Now let’s get into it!
1. Bloom, But Tiny
You know I love my afternoon Bloom, so I was very excited when they launched mini cans. Sometimes a full-sized energy drink feels like a lot, but these little guys are the perfect amount for a quick afternoon boost. Currently hooked on Strawberry Watermelon and will be keeping a stash in the fridge all summer.
2. Clear The Clutter Worked Their Magic
Earlier this week, the Clear The Clutter team spent the day at my house and I am still in disbelief at how much they accomplished. In just a few hours, they completely transformed my pantry, party cabinet, two closets, bathroom drawers, and several other spaces that had been driving me crazy for way too long.
You know those areas that technically function but slowly become a dumping ground for random stuff? Those were the spots they tackled. Everything now has a home, it’s easy to find what I need, and somehow the entire house feels calmer because of it.
Highly recommend this team! You can use code CHARM15 to save $50 off your project.
And my absolute favorite space they organized? My NEW makeup drawer!! This was truly a dream to see organized. I had NO idea how to lay this drawer out with all my products and would have spent a million hours and dollars trying to find the right size containers to make it all work. The girls knocked this drawer out in 15 minutes. It makes me SOOO happy!!
3. Bring-A-Themed-Board Girls Night
This week, Caroline attended a “bring a board” party where everyone was asked to bring a themed board to share. Most of the girls brought dessert boards, candy boards, and snack boards, but I love that Caroline decided to do something completely different and made a taco board.
It ended up being such a fun addition to the party and a nice break from all the sweets. She loaded it up with mini chicken tacos (from the frozen section of Trader Joe’s) and several dips (guac, salsa, and queso).
Also, I have to give another shoutout to the travel serving board she used. This was one of the BEST favorite things gift exchange items last year and we use it constantly. The locking lid makes it so easy to transport food without worrying about everything sliding around in the car. Such a great piece for parties, tailgates, pool days, and potlucks.
4. Summer Goal: One book and one puzzle a month.
I’m bringing back one of my favorite summer goals from last year because it was so much fun: one book and one puzzle each month.
There’s something about slowing down with a good puzzle in the evening that feels like the perfect summer activity. This seaside puzzle is one of my absolute favorites. The colors are gorgeous, it’s challenging without being frustrating, and finishing it is ridiculously satisfying.
I also picked up two paperback books for Italy because vacation reading just hits differently. One is a dreamy escape set in Italy, and the other is a fun beach read that has been all over my radar lately. Looking forward to unplugging a little and working my way through both.
5. Sleepaway Camp Countdown
We are officially one week away from camp drop-off, which means I’ve entered the “lay everything out on the dining room table and make sure nobody forgets deodorant for two weeks” phase.
Sharing a few MVP items that earn a permanent spot on the packing list every single year since I know a lot of you are packing too. Not the exciting stuff, but the things that actually get used.
- glow-in-the-dark tattoos: A camp favorite every year. They’re inexpensive, take up zero space, and are so fun for sharing with the whole cabin.
- camp stamp: My #1 camp recommendation. Stamp clothing, towels, sheets, and basically anything that might get left behind or accidentally wander into someone else’s trunk. Saves so much time compared to labeling everything by hand.
- bug bracelets: Easy to wear and especially great for those times you don’t want to apply bug spray, like evening activities, campfires, or running around in pajamas before bed.
- ultimate puzzle challenge book: Perfect for quiet time, rest hour, rainy days, and winding down before bed.
- insect repellent spray for gear: We spray this on camp duffels, sleeping bags, shoes, hats, and other gear before camp. It dries odorless and provides long-lasting protection against ticks and mosquitoes without having to spray it directly on your skin.
- spoons game: The most fun cabin game that is easy to learn, fast-paced, and guaranteed to have a group of kids laughing and yelling within minutes.
