Jo’s Favorite Things: Summer Edition

Summer is hands-down one of my favorite seasons. Longer days, fresh berries, farmers markets, family adventures… There’s so much to enjoy this time of year. Everything feels slower, which makes it easier to stop and really savor life.

It’s only July, and I’ve already had an especially memorable summer. After two incredible weeks with my family in Spain and France, I came home feeling inspired. The slower pace, emphasis on quality ingredients, and the joy of sharing great food together are all things I’m trying to bring back into my everyday life.

These are some things I’m loving this summer:

  1. Slower Meals, Lots of Walking & Spanish Olive Oil
    My biggest takeaway from Spain and France was a reminder that sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is slow down. We walked everywhere and really took our time eating meals. Of course, I did bring home a few bottles of olive oil tucked into my suitcase (who could resist?), which was so worth it. Every drizzle takes me right back! The brand I linked here is my local go-to olive oil.
  2. My Cuyana Bucket Hat
    This hat has become my summer staple. It gives me just the right amount of sun protection, whether I’m hiking, traveling, or just spending time outside on a sunny day. The design is stylish, packable, and it feels breathable even in very hot weather.
  3. My Avery Day Tote
    If you like to travel or go on outings, you know that a great tote is worth its weight in gold during summer. And one that looks this good while actually being practical is a rare find! I take this tote with me everywhere, from the airport to the farmers market, to weekend family adventures.
  4. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
    Since our trip, I’ve been making Mediterranean pasta salads on repeat. They’re so easy to throw together and taste great cold, which is a lifesaver in hot weather. I use gluten-free pasta (I love organic brown rice or chickpea pasta) and toss it with fresh veggies, herbs, olives, salt and pepper, and plenty of olive oil. It’s a great way to get tons of colorful veggies into one meal. Bonus: it tastes even better the next day!
  5. Blueberry Crumble
    We’ll be taking our yearly trip to Maine soon. One of my favorite things about the property is the blueberry bushes that grow everywhere. So of course this blueberry crumble will be making multiple appearances on our table. There’s something so satisfying about picking fresh berries and turning them into a delicious summer dessert.
  6. The Boulder Farmers Market
    This is one of my non-negotiable weekend rituals. Making time to stroll through and discover what’s in season is an important piece of my self-care. I love chatting with local farmers and bringing home fresh produce that inspires me for the week ahead. It’s one of the reasons I love living in Boulder.
  7. Fresh Herbs from the Garden
    Another thing bringing me joy right now is our little herb garden. And when I say little, I mean little! You don’t need a huge garden or a green thumb to grow a few herbs that can completely transform your meals. We have basil, mint, sage, thyme, and scallions, and I find myself snipping a handful almost every day. While we were traveling through Spain and France, I loved seeing how simple ingredients were treated with so much care. Growing a few herbs at home brings some of that magic into my meals each day.
  8. Branch Basics Travel Spray
    If you know me, you know I love non-toxic products. This Branch Basics hand spray is one of my travel essentials for flights and road trips. I always keep one handy in my bag.
  9. My New Readers
    Let’s just say my eyesight isn’t what it used to be! It can be hard to find readers that feel both functional and stylish, but thankfully these ones check all the boxes. It’s such a relief to be able to read clearly again (no more eye strain here!).
  10. Facial Cupping
    I recently added facial cupping to my self-care routine, and I’m loving it. I use the Facial Cupping Set from ⁠Sérénité Skin, which has cups designed for different areas of the face and neck. The cups are made from non-toxic materials, which is a huge selling point for me. I use these for just a few minutes a few times a week. I’ve noticed less puffiness, and I always get a healthy glow afterward.
  11. OMI Hair Growth Peptides
    Like many women navigating perimenopause, I’ve noticed changes in my hair in the last few years. I’ve used OMI Hair Growth Peptides for about a year now, and it’s made a real difference. My hair feels fuller and I’ve noticed new growth, especially around my hairline. As always, there is no magic pill when it comes to health. Healthy hair starts with eating nourishing foods and taking care of yourself. But this has been a helpful addition to my routine, and I’m happy to share it with you!
  12. Fygg Varnish
    Fygg Varnish is one of my top wellness discoveries this year. I know it may seem pricey, but one tube goes a long way! It has 3x the concentration of nano-hydroxyapatite of other toothpastes, which means you only have to use a small amount each time. This formula helps whiten your teeth, strengthen your enamel, and reduce sensitivity. It’s one of the few natural whitening solutions I’ve found that actually works (and is way cheaper than professional whitening). Since adding it to my routine, my teeth look stronger, smoother, and brighter.
  13. Badger Aloe Gel
    Aloe vera gel is a summer must-have for me. It soothes my (and my family’s) skin after hikes, gardening, or sitting by the water in the sun. Plus it has clean ingredients that I feel good about, so it’s been a staple in my house for years.
  14. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint
    This skin tint is a powerful multitasker, and it’s become my go-to SPF for my face. It has sheer, glowy coverage that makes my skin look radiant, and it actually nourishes my skin while protecting it. 
  15. After-Dinner Walks
    It may seem small, but this may be the most important healthy habit on this list. Taking a short walk after dinner helps support digestion, stabilize blood sugar, and it creates space to connect with my family. I even noticed a positive impact on my CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) readings when I make it a regular habit.
  16. Hiking
    One of my favorite ways to move my body this time of year is hiking. Hiking gives me a chance to clear my mind, breathe deeply, connect with nature, and notice the beauty around me. In a world that’s always demanding more from us, hiking is the perfect reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey.

What are you loving this summer? I’d love to hear what’s bringing you joy, helping you feel your best, or making life sweeter this season.

Are there any favorite products, recipes, adventures, books, or summer traditions you’d recommend? Hit reply and let me know. I always love hearing from you!

Wishing you a happy & healthy summer,

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