This summer I've broken out some old favorites, and have discovered some new ones. You'd think that at the age of 24 I would already have known about this wonderful, versatile fruit that simply screams summer... but number one on my list is a new addition - The Lemon.Of course, everyone knows about a glass of classic lemonade, but this summer I've been adding them to everything: chicken, fish, green beans, strawberry ice cream... They add a delicious freshness to tired recipes, and as a bonus the rind is a great cleaner and deodorizer! Literally rub the juiced lemon onto tough grease, go over with a damp cloth, and marvel at the clean.
I live and die by my old Box Fan. On a cool evening the air smells so good, and the sound really takes me back to being a child. In a highly air conditioned world, it's much healthier to breathe natural, fresh air that helps your body maintain its' ambient body temperature. Many people keep thier houses colder in the summer than they do in the winter! Air conditioners are bad for the enviroment, and they may even contribute to obesity!
Target's Long and Lean Tank Tops have become my new favorite summer threads. Basic, cool, comfy, and the perfect length - they're easy to accessorize, and at$9 apiece, who could say no?
One of my favorite albums this season has been Blitzen Trapper's "Furr" (2008). There's something terribly summery about their fiddles, jangly percussion, and pleasantly twangy voices; it's got a nice indie rock vibe if you're leery of pure folk music. The title track has quickly become one of my favorite songs.
A great summer vegetable is the lovely Zucchini. Its crisp texture and mild flavor are a complimentary side dish to any meal. They're great steamed or grilled with a little sea salt and olive oil - just be sure not to overcook them to mush!
I bought two Reversible Skirts at the Gap... four years ago? I can't live without them. They're super comfy, a good length, and fun colors. Unfortunately they've been discontinued, and this skirt from Mango is the closest thing I can find...
1960's group Peter Paul and Mary are such mellow, fun folkies - perfect for relaxing on a porch with a good book.
Grilling is one of our favorite summer pastimes. The husband has become quite the grillmaster, and he has a super-secret marinade that I am willing to share with you...
- Butter
- Oil
- Minced Garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Lemon Juice
Neutrogena's Cooling Sunblock Spray is my favorite sun block. It's light and smells nice, and because of the cooling effect it is something that I look forward to reapplying. You can buy it here or at your local shopping center.
Lying in the Grass is something I try to do every single day. Seriously. Just take 5 minutes when you get home from work, find a nice grassy spot, and relax. It'll be worth it, I promise!
I hope you use these or your own ways to make the most of the long days, warm weather, and clear skies!
1 comment:
Mmmm... lemons. Last night David and I had calamari with lemon and salt. They use lemon a lot in Mediterranean cooking, as well as, obviously, olive oil. I've become such a fan of the classic salad with olive oil, vinegar and salt, that I don't think I'll ever go back to ranch dressing.
Great list!
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