Favorite Things I’ll Be Bringing Into Summer
It’s officially starting to feel like summer here in the Pacific Northwest, one day even hit 84 degrees this week! The days are longer and more beautiful, the farmers markets are open, and the school year is winding down. May always feels like that final homestretch with routines starting to shift, and the house buzzing with end-of-year to-dos.
This time last year, I was in full-blown graduation mode getting ready for Ally’s party. Do you remember it? I’ll link it here, it was such a fun one to plan and pull off. This summer, I’m switching gears and planning something special for Dan’s big 5-0. Still working on a theme, but I can’t wait to dive into the details.
May was a long one, but it was full in the best way. Between a few trips, a fiesta, and some new favorite finds, I’m heading into summer with a list of things I already know I’ll be reaching for again and again. Today I’m sharing 12 favorites from May that are coming with me into the new season.
here are 12 favorite things I’ve loved in may!
1. a random purchase, but I love it – Flaus electric flosser
I didn’t know flossing could feel… fun? But here we are. The Flaus electric flosser has completely changed how I think about daily flossing. It’s quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying. It feels more like a skincare step than a dental chore. Did you know it’s a fact that people who floss live longer?
2. for the summer sun – supergroup tinted sunscreen
I’ve tried a lot of sunscreens, but the new Supergoop ProtecTINT one is the MVP this season. It’s glowy without being greasy, has just enough tint to even out my skin tone, and layers beautifully under makeup or on its own. It’s been living in my everyday bag lately and I already know it’ll be my go-to all summer.
3. my new favorite protein powder – betterdays chocolate betterprotein
Okay, I’m not usually a daily protein powder drinking girl, but the new chocolate BetterProtein from BetterDays actually tastes like a treat. It blends perfectly into smoothies, and doesn’t have that weird aftertaste that most protein powders do. This one feels like a chocolate milkshake dessert I look forward to.
4. what I’m currently listening to – aspire with Emma grede
I’ve been loving the Emma Grede podcast lately! It’s inspiring and full of real talk about business, creativity, and building something meaningful. Her guests are incredible, and I always walk away with at least one thing I want to write down or apply to my own life. If you need something good for your walks or errands, add this to your queue.
5. my new favorite salad – the McCarthy salad from the Beverly Hills hotel
This salad deserves its own fan club. I made the McCarthy Salad from the Beverly Hills Hotel at home and now I can’t stop. It’s fresh, filling, and feels both fancy and unfussy. I linked the recipe in case you haven’t tried it yet, it’s definitely one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re dining poolside in Beverly Hills (even if you’re just in your kitchen).
6. patio refresh
One of my favorite simple joys this month has been planting fresh flower pots for our patio. It instantly makes everything feel more alive and summery. Plus, watering them in the morning with my greens in hand is one of my new favorite little rituals. I’m officially ready for summer hosting!
7. something cozy – quince gingham bedding
I’ve been slowly refreshing our bedroom for summer, and this Quince gingham bedding was exactly the update I wanted. The neutral tones are soft and calming, which is perfect for our mostly beige and white space, but the subtle gingham pattern adds just enough texture and interest to keep it from feeling flat. It’s lightweight, breathable, and looks put together, even when the bed is only kind of made. It’s one of those small swaps that made the whole room feel fresh again.
8. my creative outlet – bag charms
I picked up a bag charm kit on a whim and it ended up being the cutest little creative project. Ally and I made a few together on cinco de mayo and now I want to make them for everyone. They’re fun, easy, and so cute! Definitely planning to use this as a summer craft with friends.
9. brunch – portage bay cafe
If you’re local to the Seattle area (or visiting soon), you have to try brunch at Portage Bay Cafe in Ballard. Their berry bar is amazing! Think big bowls of fresh berries, whipped cream, and warm syrup waiting to top your pancakes or French toast. It’s the kind of brunch that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
I have an entire post all about Seattle’s best brunch spots, you should check it below.
10. end-of-year teacher gifts
This was one of those ideas that worked out even better than I expected, I used drink trays for our teacher gifts this year and they turned out so cute! I filled them with little things like gift cards, wrapped treats, and cold drinks. They’re affordable, easy to personalize, and can honestly work for birthdays, hostess gifts, or summer thank-yous too.
11. how I’m staying active – neighborhood walks
You know how much I love my walks, and being comfortable is a must. These are the pants I grab for every neighborhood walk I take. They’re buttery soft, super flattering, and hold up wash after wash. I know they’ve been around forever, but they’re a staple for a reason.
12. my new summer necessity – the Stanley cooler
I picked this up recently for Hudson’s baseball games and I’m officially obsessed. The Stanley cooler bag is the perfect size for a park picnic or road trip snack stash. It keeps everything cold, wipes clean easily, and has really cute colors. I’ve already used it more than I thought I would, definitely taking this one into summer with me.
May tried to wear me out, but I kept one eye on the prize: summer break. Let’s do this.
**disclaimer** this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. But trust me, I only recommend products I truly love and think you will too. I’d never suggest something I wouldn’t use myself!
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