Hi there,
It’s going to be scary hot this weekend, which is no joke. It’s a great reason to stay inside, or to seek out the nearest body of water. We’re headed to Boston for a quick trip to celebrate Rob’s sister’s birthday and I’m already lobbying for a matinee movie.
Here are some ideas for how to stay cool this weekend:
Know the lingo: I knew there was a reason I hated humidity (beyond the fact that it’s gross)—it actually does make it feel hotter outside. Here’s a helpful guide to what the term “heat index” means and why it’s a more accurate gauge of how it feels outside than simple temperature.
Freeze, then blend: Lately we’ve been buying watermelon and cutting up half to eat right away and freezing the other half. Not only is frozen watermelon delicious on its own but it’s super refreshing in smoothie format. I blend frozen watermelon with coconut milk, lime juice, a little honey, and ice and it’s gloriously tropical. And, as my dad helpfully pointed out, it’d probably be great with a splash of rum. Here’s a basic recipe.
Find melon, add cheese: I’ve been keeping my eyes open for honeydew and canteloupe at the farmers’ market so I can turn them into sweet-savory salads like this cucumber and melon beauty from Carla Lalli Music. You can basically take any type of melon and combine it with a salty, crumbly cheese (feta and ricotta salata are both great), olive oil, lemon juice, some seeds or nuts for crunch.
Get to know your candidates: There are still too many Democratic nominees to count but the field is starting to narrow, and I’ve been continuing to read up on the front-runners/money-raisers. I thought this NYT story on Pete Buttigieg and how it took him until 33 to come out was pretty fascinating, and am going to dive into this New Yorkerprofile on Kamala Harris this weekend.
Wear so much SPF: I discovered Image’s SPF 50 daily moisturizer at Heyday and was amazed at how light and blend-able it is. I wear it underneath my BB Cream and feel very adult and responsible in my sun preparedness.
And a hat, too: The other day my friend Gina showed up to lunch wearing the absolute perfect summer hat. It’s an oversized straw number by Cuyana and just big enough to keep your whole face covered without turning into a statement piece.
Beach reads, obviously: I loved Elisabeth Egan’s NYT roundup of great beach reads, especially this description: “These books are the cool aunts of the literary world: They drive with the top down and take you to new places.” I immediately downloaded Jennifer Weiner’s Mrs. Everything, which tracks a pair of very different sisters over the course of 65 years. I’m a few chapters in and hooked.
Take care and stay hydrated!
Mollie