The Weekly Mix: A Whirlwind Weekend, Family Reunions, and Delicious Summer Favorites
Another week has gracefully flown by, carrying with it a whirlwind of activity and cherished moments. While it feels like a phrase I’ve uttered a million times, the past seven days genuinely zipped by in a blur of excitement, travel, and delightful discoveries. From an unexpected dash across time zones to a refreshing return to local city comforts, this week has been a vibrant tapestry of experiences worth sharing. Join me as I recount the highlights and sprinkle in some of my current favorite finds, perfect for embracing the summer season.
A Memorable Weekend Getaway: Wedding Bells in South Bend, Indiana
Our recent adventure took us on a road trip down to South Bend, Indiana, for a cousin’s wedding. This journey, however, came with a humorous twist that almost saw us miss the entire celebration! In our excitement, we completely overlooked the fact that South Bend operates in a different time zone. Imagine the frantic rush when we realized our mistake, a heart-stopping moment that turned into a chuckle once we safely arrived, albeit just in the nick of time! It was a good reminder to always double-check the details, especially when crossing state lines.
The wedding itself was a beautiful occasion, filled with joy and love. What made it even more special was the incredible gathering of family. Nearly everyone from Connor’s side was able to make it, transforming the event into an impromptu family reunion. There’s something truly heartwarming about seeing so many loved ones gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, and creating new memories. These family celebrations are truly priceless, fostering connections that often get lost in the hustle and bustle of daily life. The atmosphere was vibrant, the vows touching, and the dance floor lively, making it a weekend to remember for all the right reasons.
Despite the initial time zone scare, a short weekend away like this always feels like a mini-vacation. There’s a certain magic in stepping away from your routine, even for just a couple of days. It allows for a refresh, a change of scenery, and a renewed perspective that can be incredibly rejuvenating. Whether it’s the thrill of travel, the warmth of family, or simply exploring a new place, these brief escapes are something I’m absolutely embracing more of.
Exploring the Grandeur of Notre Dame University
During our various long drives and previous trips through Indiana, we’ve passed by Notre Dame’s campus a few times. However, I’ve never truly had the opportunity to stop and fully appreciate its iconic beauty until this visit. What a magnificent place! The campus is absolutely breathtaking, a testament to stunning architecture and meticulously maintained grounds. Walking through it, you can feel the rich history and academic prestige emanating from every building.
The Golden Dome shimmered under the sun, a beacon of tradition and learning, while the Basilica of the Sacred Heart stood majestically, its intricate details captivating. The lush green spaces, impressive collegiate gothic buildings, and serene pathways made for a truly picturesque setting. It was a wonderful experience to wander around, taking in the sights and soaking in the unique atmosphere that defines one of America’s most renowned universities. This unexpected exploration added another layer of enjoyment to our weekend trip, offering a peaceful counterpoint to the wedding festivities.
Back to City Life: Local Delights and Lakeside Leisure
We made our way back to the city on Saturday afternoon, transitioning from the quaint charm of South Bend to the familiar buzz of urban life. The rest of our weekend was spent enjoying quality time with my in-laws, indulging in some of our favorite local activities and simply unwinding at home. These moments are just as precious as any grand adventure, offering comfort and connection in our everyday surroundings.
Our Sunday morning began with a delightful treat: old-fashioned doughnuts from the newest bakery in our neighborhood. There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly crafted old-fashioned doughnut – crispy edges, a tender interior, and just the right amount of glaze. Supporting local businesses, especially new ones, always brings a sense of community pride, and these doughnuts certainly lived up to the hype, providing a sweet start to the day.
Later, we embarked on a charming taxi boat ride out on the lake. The city skyline sparkled from a distance, and the gentle rocking of the boat was incredibly soothing. What made this outing even more special was that Marley, our beloved furry companion, joined us! Watching her enjoy the breeze and the open water added an extra layer of joy to the experience. It was a perfect way to appreciate the beauty of our city from a different perspective, enjoying the serene expanse of the lake while still being so close to home. The day concluded with relaxed time spent at home, simply enjoying each other’s company, a quiet and contented end to a bustling weekend.
My Weekly Favorites: Summer Style, Savory Recipes, and Inspiring Reads
As always, I’m excited to share a few things that have captured my attention and brought me joy this week. From fashion finds to delectable recipes and thought-provoking articles, here’s a mix of my current obsessions:
[Edited to add]: For those of you who’ve been asking about the stunning cobalt dress pictured above, it’s a true standout. This vibrant piece is perfect for summer events, offering a splash of color and effortless elegance. Its flattering silhouette and comfortable fit make it a versatile addition to any wardrobe, whether you’re attending a special occasion or simply want to brighten up your day. You can easily find this gorgeous cobalt dress at Nordstrom, a go-to for stylish and high-quality fashion finds.
If you’re anything like me, the summer heat makes you crave simplicity in the kitchen. This week, I compiled and shared ten of my personal favorite quick summer recipes. These dishes are designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for those long, sunny days when you’d rather be outside than slaving over a hot stove. Think fresh ingredients, vibrant tastes, and speedy preparation times that allow you to enjoy more of your summer evenings.
This radish dish with burrata and pesto is truly speaking to my culinary soul. If you’ve always dismissed radishes as just a crunchy salad garnish, I urge you to try roasting them! Roasting transforms their peppery bite into a wonderfully mild and slightly sweet flavor, making them incredibly tender. Paired with creamy burrata and aromatic pesto, this recipe elevates a humble vegetable into a sophisticated and utterly delicious side or appetizer. It’s a game-changer for radish skeptics and a treat for seasoned fans.
When it comes to everyday comfort and style, this summer tee is an absolute winner. It’s become such a wardrobe staple for me that I now own it in three different colors! The fabric is incredibly soft and breathable, making it ideal for warm weather, while its classic cut ensures it pairs seamlessly with everything from denim shorts to flowy skirts. It’s the kind of versatile piece you can dress up or down, proving that basic doesn’t have to mean boring, and comfort can absolutely be chic.
My favorite salmon, prepared in one of my favorite ways: Kimchi Salmon Poke. I’m completely obsessed with poke bowls, and this recipe takes it to another level with the addition of flavorful kimchi. The combination of fresh, flaky salmon, the tangy crunch of kimchi, and a vibrant array of other ingredients creates a dish that is both healthy and incredibly satisfying. It’s a perfect option for a light yet filling meal that truly bursts with flavor – seriously, give me all the poke!
Anthropologie is currently having a fantastic summer sale, and it’s taking all my willpower not to click “add to cart” on absolutely everything! Their unique blend of bohemian chic and timeless elegance is always alluring. Among the many tempting items, this gorgeous cheese board caught my eye. It’s not just functional; it’s a beautiful piece of art that would elevate any gathering. Perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a sophisticated snack at home, it’s an investment in both style and hospitality.
I recently came across an incredibly insightful article titled “Stop Schedule Shaming,” and I absolutely loved its message. In a world that often glorifies constant busyness and perfectly optimized schedules, this piece encourages a kinder, more flexible approach to productivity. It’s a refreshing reminder that everyone’s journey and pace are different, and there’s no single right way to manage your time or achieve your goals. It advocates for self-compassion and breaking free from the pressure to constantly compare our output to others – a truly valuable perspective in today’s fast-paced environment.
For warm weather dining, nothing beats a refreshing pasta salad, and this recipe for the best type of Mediterranean pasta salad is an absolute must-try. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, savory feta, olives, and a zesty dressing that perfectly complements the pasta. Light, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, it’s ideal for potlucks, picnics, or simply a quick and satisfying lunch. I could honestly eat this Mediterranean pasta salad every single day during the summer months – it’s that good and perfectly captures the essence of fresh, vibrant eating.
And finally, for those with a sweet tooth, these Red Berry Almond Blondies have truly never looked this good. Seriously, the photos alone are enough to make your mouth water! This recipe takes the classic blondie to an elevated level with the addition of juicy red berries and fragrant almonds, creating a delightful texture and flavor profile. It’s a sophisticated take on a comforting dessert, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with a cup of coffee. These blondies are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular.
On the Menu Next Week: Culinary Adventures Await
Looking ahead to the upcoming week, my meal plan is already shaping up to be a delicious one, featuring a mix of forgotten favorites and classic comforts:
- First up are these incredible chorizo steamed clams with shaved fennel and herb salad. I always forget about this recipe, but every time I make it, I’m reminded of how incredibly flavorful and satisfying it is. The smoky chorizo perfectly complements the briny clams, all infused with the rich notes of Negra Modelo. It’s an unexpectedly elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight indulgence.
- Next, for a fresh and vibrant option, we’ll be enjoying a guacamole greens salad with cilantro-lime-jalapeño vinaigrette. This salad is a complete meal in itself, packed with healthy greens, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing that provides just the right amount of kick. It’s the ideal choice for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner, especially when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful.
- And finally, to round out the week with a comforting classic, we’re making Spaghetti all’Amatriciana. Oh, man, I love that recipe! This rich and savory pasta dish, with its pancetta, tomatoes, and Pecorino Romano, is the epitome of Italian comfort food. It’s hearty, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy family dinner after a busy day.
I hope your week has been just as fulfilling and that you find some inspiration in these shared moments and recommendations. Wishing you all a fantastic weekend ahead, filled with relaxation, good food, and great company!