Petite Pause no. 2
Solo summer adventures (Fresno-style), cute napwear, and oh, and I got bangs
Your end-of-week scroll break. A cozy little catch-up full of links, loves, and things I can’t stop talking about. A spark of inspiration you didn’t know you needed.
This week felt like a soft little reset. I cut bangs (!!) and, shockingly, not because of a life crisis. Turns out, you can have a perfectly normal week and still get cute french bangs and zero regrets. Earlier this week I made a Caesar salad dressing completely from scratch, and I’m not being dramatic when I say I’m obsessed. Even made it again later this week.
I got the cutest Fourth of July nails—BBQ-inspired with mini hot dogs, red gingham like a picnic tablecloth, and the perfect American red. They're ridiculous in the best way and I smile every time I look at them.
Long days, full plates. Between gymnastics, looming work deadlines, and the first real wave of summer heat, this week felt like a slow simmer. The kids are sun-kissed and wild, my to-do list is hanging on by a paperclip, and somehow, there’s still magic in the in-between moments, like popsicles after dinner and quiet minutes before bed.
Weekend Itinerary
What to Read: Michelle Martin’s Book Recs From Friends #7: Sara Hildreth — A thoughtful and inspiring read for anyone looking to reconnect with classics or discover under-the-radar literary gems. Sara Hildreth’s reflections will make you want to slow down, read deeper, and chase the threads that connect stories across time.
What to Watch/Listen To: The Atmosphere playlist curated by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Cinematic, moody, and just right for late-night journaling, long drives, or dramatic glances out the window. (Bonus points if you’ve already devoured the book.)
What to Make: Tomato toast, but elevated. Grab a crusty sourdough, slather on a swipe of garlic-laced ricotta or whipped cottage cheese, top with heirloom tomatoes (salted generously), a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh basil. It’s peak summer simplicity, best eaten barefoot with a cold drink in hand.
What to Try: A one-line-a-day journal. No pressure, no overthinking, just jot down a moment, a mood, or a memory. It’s a gentle way to mark time and notice the sweetness in the ordinary.
What to Do: Try a mini reset. Something small: clearing out one drawer, organizing your sunscreen stash, switching your phone wallpaper. The tiniest shifts can make the biggest difference this time of year. Think of it as seasonal housekeeping for your soul.
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Solo Summer Adventures (Fresno-Style)
Feeling a little “me time” calling your name? Here are a few soul-filling solo adventures you can try right here in the Central Valley:
DIY Spa Day at Home - Crank the AC, light a eucalyptus candle, and treat yourself to a long shower, a face mask, and some quiet time with your favorite playlist (or a juicy audiobook from Libby).
Stargazing at Millerton Lake -Pack a blanket and drive up to Millerton for some late-night sky magic. Bonus points if you bring snacks and make a wish or two.
Learn Something New - Take a pottery class at Good Dirt, sign up for a paint & sip night, or try your hand at baking the perfect peach galette while they're still in season.
Photography Walk in Woodward Park - Bring your phone or camera and wander the trails at golden hour. Look for shadows, wildflowers, and quiet moments. End with an iced matcha at Yellow Mug.
Explore a Nearby Town -Hop in the car and head to Oakhurst, Kingsburg or even a quick drive to Visalia. Wander antique shops, grab a local bite, and be a tourist in your own backyard.
Nature Reset at the Shinzen Garden - Stroll through the Japanese garden at Woodward Park with your phone on Do Not Disturb. Sit by the koi pond, breathe deep, and just be.
Solo Museum Date - Pop into the Fresno Art Museum (yes, even alone!), then treat yourself to a solo lunch at Sams Italian Deli (it’s down the street). Bring a book or a notebook and linger.
Currently in my cart
I cannot believe this Gap × DÔEN 100% Linen Gingham Midi Dress is still in stock (in almost all sizes).
Bow Anklet - Very demure, very mindful.
The summer shorts I’ll be living in - Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Jean Short.
Open tabs
A few links I couldn’t close this week:
The Case for Doing Nothing – A gentle reminder from The New York Times that rest is productive too (especially in July).
A Peach Galette That’s Foolproof and Pretty – The kind of summer baking that doesn’t feel like a project.
This Podcast Episode on Digital Burnout – Short, smart, and slightly convicting. Worth a listen if your screen time report makes you wince.
This lace-trim camisole and pajama short set in linen from J.Crew – Because I’m not saying napwear is the outfit of the summer, but I will be wearing it on repeat with my favorite book in hand.
Here’s to a soft, sparkly weekend ahead ✨
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