Happy Friday, everyone!

Just as we thought the great summer heat of 2019 had passed, maybe, it’s coming back with a vengeance and my birthday (Monday) is scheduled to be a scorcher…93 degrees! Well then! 😮 We shall be celebrating in air conditioning!

Speaking of birthdays, I must admit I’ve always been a fan. Beyond being “a Leo,” I’ve always had a soft spot for birthday celebrations - for everyone - not just my own. It’s a special day just for you. Embrace and enjoy every second of it. And make sure there’s cake. ;)

As I look toward the start of my 34th year, I am happy to report that I’m really proud of who I have become, who I am working on being all of the time, and how I try to live every day to the fullest.

Whether it’s being proud of my day-job (yes, I work full time), proud of my website and it’s continuous growth and progress, or just being happy going out to dinner with Seth, I think my 30s are definitely the sweet spot. Best decade yet. I’ve learned a lot during 33 and cannot wait to see what 34 has in store…

Have a wonderful weekend! 🎉

Read

Since we’re eating lots o’ fish this summer, we try to buy it as fresh as possible. However, depending on which kind we’re buying, we may be better off selecting the frozen option. But then what? Here’s how to deal with frozen fish that you want to eat tonight.

With the change of season to fall (not quite yet), there comes one positive in particular that I’m excited about: new fall cookbooks! Here’s a list of twelve new titles that I cannot wait to flip through and make everything. Baked goods - I can’t wait!

A cobbler, a crisp, and a crumble, all appear on the dessert table. Wait - which one do you pick? And what is the difference between the three? Let me tell you…

Cook

There are only a few times each year when I really crave cake. My birthday being at the top of the list…

This coconut cake looks downright decadent.

This carrot cake recipe is already gluten free, yippee!

And is it even a birthday if you don’t include chocolate cake? This one looks particularly promising. And ridiculously rich.

For the vanilla-minded, this vanilla cake looks yummy. And I must admit, I’m a forever-fan of vanilla birthday cake. 🎂

Dine

Twist Bakery Cafe - I’m anticipating many plates of pancakes (and mini cheesecakes) there this weekend. 😎

Adelita - we may pop in for tacos, margaritas, and freshly-made guacamole. 😋

L’Andana - If an Italian craving hits, I may decide this lovely restaurant may be a great spot for Saturday night.

The Bancroft - Perhaps a birthday toast with champagne, shrimp, and French fries. I’m in!

Shop

Shoes, jeans, and jackets are some of my favorite fall purchases…

Pretty sure turning 34 is the right time to buy chic, black leather Chelsea boots. I need to try these on. And maybe order?

But I will always love easy, slip-on sneakers. I want to try these on as well. Vince makes some of my favorite shoes for long walks and commuting.

If you haven’t tried Madewell denim yet, then I think it’s time! It’s fantastic. I have my eye on this pair to add to my jeans drawer/collection.

This is not new-news, but Patagonia makes great jackets that are perfect for the various temperatures and weather that arrive around October. I’ve been interested in this classic style for awhile and I may just need to finally get it. Stay warm. 😏

Enjoy!

Mollie

Gluten Free Mollie D