Well hello there and happy Friday! It’s time for another edition of what I call “Friday Five.” This is my moment to step away from recipes and share a little of life beyond the kitchen.
May is wrapping up and I can hardly believe summer is already here. Didn’t I just send my little guy off to start third grade? His last day is next week and he’s thrilled about summer break. Here are five things I wanted to share with you today:
1. Saying Goodbye to Mali
May began with the heartbreaking news that my sweet Mali had end-stage kidney failure. Making the decision to say goodbye was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Mali and Lila were littermates, and Mali always seemed extra tuned in to who needed love. She was my girl and a full member of our family. When Miles was little and people asked if he had siblings, he’d proudly say, “Yes, I have two sissies.”
We’re still adjusting to her absence. If you’ve lost a furry family member, you already know how deep that grief runs.
2. Family Photos
For Mother’s Day this year I treated myself to family photos. If you’re in the Chicagoland area and need a photographer, I recommend Firefly Nights Photography—Megan does a beautiful job. Miles isn’t a fan of having his picture taken and picking outfits can feel like a chore, but I never regret investing in professional photos.
When did you last have family photos taken?
3. Sweet Summer Time!
We’ve got a low-key summer on the calendar: lots of pool days, trampoline time, driveway basketball, way too many popsicles, and a long weekend trip to St. Joseph, Michigan. It’s just the kind of relaxed season we need.
Do you have any fun plans for the summer?
4. My Favorite Snack
This snack might sound odd at first, but once you try it you’ll be hooked. My in-laws introduced me to it, and it’s become a summertime staple. Start with a cracker, add a slice of pepper-jack (or your favorite cheese), top with a thin cucumber slice, and finish with a sprinkle of celery salt. Sometimes I add a little tajín for kick. It’s simple, refreshing, and so good.
What snack are you loving lately?
5. Pretty Flowers
It’s funny how you gradually become more like your parents. My mom spent so many summers planting and tending flowers, and now I find myself doing the same—and loving it. One of my favorite days each year is visiting the garden shop and choosing new plants. I enjoy watering in the evenings and, yes, picking weeds. Who knew I’d say that?
I should admit that while I’m happy with flower beds, I’m terrible at maintaining a vegetable garden and often struggle to keep houseplants alive. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, right?
That’s it for this edition of Friday Five!
PS: A few new recipes you might have missed:
- Grilled BBQ Chicken Kabobs
- Caprese Pasta Salad
- Air Fryer Kielbasa
- Air Fryer Red Potatoes
- Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
I hope life is treating you well. Feel free to leave a comment on Facebook or send me an email — I love hearing from you!
xoxo,
Ashley