Summer Superlatives 2023
the best in books, beauty, and toddler entertainment
Today I’m revisiting my summer capsules to identify the standout items, activities, and meals that brought necessary joy in a bittersweet season. This summer, we lost both of my grandmothers—one after a long hospice journey and another after a rapid cancer diagnosis. I spent much of the summer with family, but without my spouse, who was away for six weeks on a work trip. I expended so much energy as a caregiver that when I did have time to squeeze in self care, I really had to make it count. This list of books, beauty items, go-to clothes, toddler fun, and delicious foods helped anchor me in the present, enjoy the season, and ease my mental load.
Best Books
A little mix of romance, reflective literary fiction, and humorous essays—just the way I like it.
Knockout by Sarah Maclean
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Congratulations, the Best is Over by R. Eric Thomas
Best Beauty Products
Yes, this face mask is pricey. And also…it works SO WELL.
Caudalie Instant Detox Clay Mask
Naturium Vitamin C Serum & Lip Balm
Most Worn Items
The summer uniform lives on until it’s cool enough to replace my linen shirt with a cute cropped sweatshirt.
Best Toddler Entertainment
TL;DR - being outside 24/7.
Picking raspberries on a sunflower farm
Visiting the zoo (favorite animal: dairy cows)
Washing the van
Reading a Busy/Quiet Book
Favorite Summer Foods
I love grilling season BUT am I the only one craving soup and bread?
Fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette
Schaumberg Dinner Club steak and baked potato
I’d love to hear what made your summer superlatives list in the comments.
Chelsey
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Tom Lake will forever be a defining read of August 2023!
Chelsea I am thinking of you. I know what that type of "season of loss" feels like. In April, June, and August of 2017 I lost my two grandpas and one grandma. It is tough to lose them, and for me was really a season of reflection on the gifts they left behind. I also read Tom Lake (Our Town is my favorite play) and am now listing to R. Eric Thomas's new book of essays. I am loving them both. I'm currently reading You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith and I really wish I was reading it in a college class with a professor that would deep dive it! Poet by trade it is a "tell-mine" memoir and her ability to succinctly state or describe something, along with the non-traditional vignette style of memoir is captivating. (I, too, am craving soup season!) I hope you have a great holiday weekend!