We’re definitely in the thick of summertime – temps in our area (and across the eastern half of the country, for that matter) have been tortuous. This being my first full summer in our new locale here in North Carolina, I’m still adjusting to how to dress comfortably, coolly, and still professionally in this heat. But regardless, it is summer and the days just beg to be enjoyed for all they’re worth while we have them, in spite of the fact that I saw some postings on social media of people doing back-to-school shopping. Plus our local Hobby Lobby is putting out Halloween decorations! I just want to shout out “No-o-o-o! Not yet! Don’t rush us on to the next season!”
However, I’m choosing to ignore these signs and just get on with enjoying summer. Here are a few of the things that make my summer special:
Favorite Foods
The pictures may say it all here. These are my favorite southern summer foods – actually with the exception of the tomato sandwich, they are year-round favorites. You only want a tomato sandwich when the tomatoes are in-season and bursting with ripeness. White bread, mayo and tomatoes, salt and pepper – they make the most amazing sandwich. (Don’t knock it til you try it!) Pimento cheese just knocks me out, especially when it’s made a little spicy. And shrimp and grits….well, all I can say is, if this is on the menu it’s an automatic ‘yes’ for me. Heaven help me if all three of these are on the menu at the same time!
Favorite Drink
The Aperol Spritz is so refreshing, and so simple to make. All you need is Aperol, Prosecco, soda water and an orange slice. We actually make a version of this with a little Campari added in. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Italy!
Favorite Dress
One thing I love about summer is wearing dresses – even though I can’t wear them to work in because of the nature of closet design. They truly aren’t appropriate when you’re bending up and down, and sometimes on your hands and knees,measuring closets (I count this as exercise though – you take it where you can get it, right?) But for running errands, a dress can’t be beat. This one came from Tar-zhay believe it or not – it’s a great length and has some form to it, so it doesn’t just bag around the body. Don’t get me wrong, I also love looser styles, but I do look better in a more fitted style. Each of us knows what works best on our own bodies. In these photos I added a bit more intention with jewelry – mixing in the circle patterns with the stripes of the dress. Normally I agonize a bit over my 65-year-old arms in sleeveless dresses, but I’m getting less concerned about this as the days go by. I do work out and do the best I can, so it is what it is!
Favorite Books in my Favorite Place
My ‘happy place’ is definitely on our back porch in the early morning, where I enjoy a cup or two of coffee, say my morning prayers, and then settle in for a bit of reading before heading into the day. It’s so nice to hear the birds chirping, watch the sky light up with the day, and enjoy the peace and quiet. As far as favorite books go, I have many, but I’ll share a couple of my recent favorites. (They will be # 25 and 26 on my list of books read for this year. In my quest to read more books, I’m aiming to beat last year’s list of 33.)
So what are your favorite things to enjoy in the summer? Thanks for reading – stay stylish!
Adena
