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.
It was a short work week, the kind that blurs the line between weekend and weekday in the best way. My children and I spent time with my parents and brother this week and enjoyed the annual firework show, one of those small-town displays that makes you feel like a kid again, even if your kid is sitting next to you asking for more snacks. And tonight? I’ll be keeping it delightfully low-key with my boyfriend, the kind of evening that feels quintessentially American in the most endearing way.
Weekend Itinerary
What to Read: “We Should Be Ambitious About Our Friendships” by Rainesford Stauffer (via Elle) — A quietly powerful piece about inheritance, identity, and the parts of our mothers and grandmothers we carry forward, even when we don’t realize it. Tender, nostalgic, and perfect for a slow weekend scroll.
What to Watch/Listen To: The Lazy Genius Podcast — specifically, the episode “How to Have a Summer Reset”. It’s light, practical, and just the right vibe if your brain feels like it's still on holiday but your to-do list says otherwise.
What to Make: Watermelon + feta salad with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Toss those leftover watermelon cubes with crumbled feta, a handful of fresh mint, and a pinch of flaky salt. It’s salty-sweet perfection, and tastes like summer in a bowl. Best served chilled, ideally while lounging in poolside.
What to Do: Take a sunset stroll through Woodward Park (or a park in your city). Pack a blanket, grab an iced drink, and watch the sky turn every shade of sherbet. Or stay close to home and do a little evening porch sit, same vibe, fewer mosquitoes if you light a citronella candle.
What to Try: Origins GinZing Eye Cream. I sent a “pls help” text to the group chat after one too many snooze-button mornings, and my friend Nicole reminded me of this gem. It has caffeine for an instant de-puffing boost and just enough shimmer to fake 8 hours of sleep, even when your eyes say otherwise.
Can you do me a favor? If you like this, will you hit the heart ❤️ on the bottom of your email? I promise it helps!
They say every room needs an unexpected red a little pop of boldness that pulls everything together in the most surprising way. Consider this a love letter to that idea, featuring little hits of crimson, cherry, and deep berry that instantly warm up a space or an outfit.
I’ve rounded up a few favorite finds, from playful to practical, that bring just the right amount of heat. Pair with cozy neutrals or layer it loud. Either way, red’s having a moment and I’m all in.
Vicenza Crochet Platform Heels, Le Creuset Red Cookware Collection, Clare V. L'Été Ciao Crochet Tote, The Greta Ballet Flat, Straw Crab Bag Charm, Colorblock One Piece Swimsuit, Garden Vegetable Candle, Strawberry HydroJug, Yes Chef Cotton Dish Towel, Wavy Wood Wine Rack, Fruta Stoneware Berry Basket, Lyla Stoneware Dinner and Side Plates, The Foggy Dog Pet Bandana, Vine Ceramic Candle
Whether you're watching the last of the fireworks sparkle out or just enjoying the simple pleasure of a quiet night in, I hope this little list added a spark to your weekend. There's something sweet about the slow pace of a holiday week. The grilled dinners, sticky fingers from too much watermelon, kids running barefoot, and that gentle reminder that joy doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
Thanks for spending part of your Fourth with me. I’ll be back Tuesday with a fresh post, but until then, may your sparklers burn bright, your drinks stay cold, and your weekend feel like a warm, hug from summer herself. 💌
If you appreciate this lists, please spread the word! Passing along my Substack link helps this community grow.
The Second Act is an entirely reader-supported publication. Click here to subscribe or gift a friend a subscription here (if a friend sent you this —tell them thanks!). Anything you want covered? Questions? Reply with a comment below! You can also find me on Instagram. Please come say hi!