10 Random Things

Well, I had originally envisioned a much lighter Friday morning, wrapping up this blog post while sipping my coffee, and then packing up our stuff and heading to the lake house for June’s (final 😆) family birthday celebration. (We’ve already sang her happy birthday twice now with various family members!)

But you’ve probably heard the news by now. Roe v. Wade was just overturned. I feel like I have been in panic mode ever since the 2020 election–and it turns out 2020 has got nothing on 2022. It’s really terrifying to be a parent in the U.S. right now–especially the parent of a daughter.

I don’t know what to do, I don’t know how we get out of this. I’m sad, I’m SO angry. I know I’m rambling and I’m sure you feel the same, but I just wanted to acknowledge the elephant in the room. Right now, the only thing I know to do is to donate, so I’m contributing to the National Network of Abortion Funds which benefits independent clinics around the country.

10 Random Things 6.24

In what feels like an inevitably jarring transition, here are 9 more super light/fluffy things that may get your mind off the news today:

If you need a SUPER easy, delicious summer side dish

I love this boxed couscous which you can get from pretty much any grocery store. It’s delicious right out of the box and it’s the perfect pairing with grilled meat and veggies.

Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Seasoning is the highest item on my list of things to try right now.

I saw a post in one of the many Trader Joe’s Facebook groups I’m in (how old am I?) where someone made a tomato sandwich and sprinkled this on top–it looked SOOO good.

My latest favorite read: Meant to Be Mine by Hannah Orenstein:

I finished this in just a couple days, it was so cute! (Thanks to Hitha for the recco!) I adored all the characters, the family ties, the love story with a twist you kind of saw coming but in the best way–it was great. Just what you need right now!

Hibiscus iced tea:

Remember when I bought these giant hibiscus iced tea bags on Amazon? (You only need one for a whole pitcher!) I am reporting back: they are fabulous. If you love hibiscus tea, you will want these. Such a fantastic treat to have refreshing hibiscus tea at arms reach!

I may or may not be packing only Ellie nap dresses for the weekend at the lake house. 😂

Honestly what more would I need!?

Summer humidity is in full swing, and I still stand by these two products as the best way to tame my frizz!

Also, the postpartum flyaways have been extra bonkers lately, so thought I’d share my tips for anyone struggling with the same (or with flyaways in general):

I’ve found that blow drying them (vs air drying) helps a lot. (So I’ll use a round brush just to blow dry my roots and then the sides of my hair, letting the rest air dry.) Also, using Neal’s Kevin Murphy max hold hair pomade has been the most effective product for me to keep them slicked down when my hair is in a ponytail. (Way better than hair spray!)

Looking for a new Chicago date night idea?

Try Segnatore for dinner! (In the old Cafe Marie Jean space!) We went with friends this week for the first time and it was SO good. Stop for a glass of wine at Rootstock beforehand, and grab a nightcap and enjoy live music at the California Clipper (yes! It’s back!) Both are right across the street.

Speaking of summer in Chicago, Movies in the Park are back!

Here’s a giant list of what’s playing everywhere this summer.

Now go get outside and unplug this weekend. ♥️ Hugs!

xoxo Jess