Hello and happy Friday!

The humidity is steaming us this morning so I have already spent a fair amount of time in front of a giant fan. Oh, summer! However, I’m still of my newly-changed mindset that spring and summer are way better than winter (my former favorite season) despite my passion for winter coats. Moving on!

This week’s Buffet offers a bit of food, a bit of news, great recipes, and my new dining guide! While more and more states continue to “open",” we’re steering clear of the potential crowds and continuing to cook at home with the occasional takeout order. Masks are still important everyone so I hope you’re wearing one outside your home if not able to properly social distance.

I hope you have a good weekend. Be safe, get some fresh air, and take a moment to breath. We’re all in this together.

Read

Did you hear? Big, necessary changes over at Bon Appetit. Good riddance. It’s about time. This story as well.

My at-home workouts continue to be a surprisingly good way to sweat each day; I’m constantly noticing new workouts and instructors all over the Internet. Check out this list of black fitness professionals in Boston to follow on Instagram.

Much to my surprise, a select number of malls are opening up in Massachusetts. It’s definitely a not-quite-normal experience. I’ll keep shopping online for now, thanks.

Writing about hope for the future. This is a great read.

And if you’re looking to make a donation right now, please consider Campaign Zero.

Cook

Garlic Butter Steak Bites - Sign me up! These sound so yummy and super quick. Ideal dinner/snack, right here. And naturally gluten free.

Vegan Burritos - This recipe came out this week from Jessica and I really want to make it. I’ve never made a dairy-free burrito, but I’m willing to give it a try. They look delicious!

General Tso Cauliflower Wings - Um, we need to make these immediately. They look ridiculously awesome and are easily made GF (be sure to use gluten free soy sauce/ Tamari).

Miso Butter Pecan Ice Cream - Each summer I say I’m going to make ice cream and it hasn’t happened yet. I think this recipe is what will finally get me to do it. This sounds delicious!

Dine

Did you hear? There’s a new Bar Bites guide! This time, we’re talking all about takeout. To be updated regularly.

As of this week, Massachusetts restaurants are allowed to offer outdoor dining for guests, along with takeout and delivery options (with all sorts of rules regarding masks etc). I’m not running to go out to eat (outside), but it will be interesting to hear about the experience from those that do choose this option. However, we will continue to support the restaurant industry by ordering takeout from our favorites. I cannot believe that we haven’t eaten at a restaurant since the beginning of March. Wow.

Shop

I have been using a couple products from Ursa Major this week and I have to say I’m impressed! I highly recommend the Fantastic Face Wash, the Vitamin C Serum, and the Three-Minute Face Mask (so easy and feels excellent). I’ve been jumping on the all-natural, clean beauty bandwagon and my skin seems to be pretty happy about it. Surprise, surprise…

As much as I love sandals during the summer, I find myself turning to easy sneakers most days of the week. We walk a lot! Recently, I’ve been wearing this pair from Veja and my feet are thrilled.

Is anyone else trying out natural deodorant? I’ve heard rave reviews about a number of brands out there and that it’s much better for your skin. Since I’m pretty much at home most of the time, I decided to give this one from Necessaire a try! I’ll let you know how it goes…

While I try to shop at smaller brands more and more, sometimes I just need to go to Sephora. I’m very impressed with the position they took with the “15% Pledge” so I’ll continue to shop there from time to time.

Enjoy!

Mollie