Hello! Happy Friday. Finally! What a week. I’m pretty sure it had to do with the seemingly endless stretch of time when we didn’t see the sun, it was too cool for July, and it rained constantly, but my goodness my mood has finally been lifted. Thanks to hot weather and the sun’s eventual appearance late Wednesday afternoon, this week finally took a turn for the better. I never anticipate stretches of bad weather during the summer so when they do happen, it throws me for a bit. I’m glad it has passed (for now).

Thank you for your patience with this series as I skipped last week for a much-needed break. My mind has been on overdrive lately and the best way to calm it all down is to relax my posting schedule. I’m feeling much better now and will get back to the regular series and sharing some updates (new Bar Bites, more lifestyle) very soon. For now, let’s get to this week’s all-new Buffet, shall we? The weekend is waiting!

READ

Did you hear about the Mac and Cheese Ice Cream? I am very curious; it has already sold out.

Here’s a fun fact: I love corn dogs. I even made them from scratch one time, long ago. These new ones look so good!

While most of my workouts are indoors, I do go for a long walk daily - even in the heat! Looking at this roundup of hot-weather-workout-gear to help keep me cool outside.

Considering ordering a couple of these celebrity memoirs for entertaining and relaxed summer reading.

Summer risotto made with pineapple juice instead of wine? I am intrigued…

A good waffle maker (iron) is a kitchen necessity (even if it’s not used too often). Find the best one for your home, right here.

COOK

I am tempted to try this ginger-mustard barbecue sauce for our next night of grilling.

For a change to the regular grilled veggies, how about citrus-oil-marinated instead?

We’ve been adding in meatless meals fairly often and this creamy vegan red pepper pasta should be made next week!

Speaking of meatless, I think this green rice needs to be made immediately. Delicious-looking and so versatile.

On the other side of things, I am now craving lamb burgers with yogurt sauce and arugula.

And I would love steak tacos with corn relish.

I’m pretty sure we need to make pesto cheese zucchini ravioli with burst tomatoes like, right now. Yum! PS: the ravioli are made out of zucchini and therefore are naturally gluten free!

Finally, I baked buttermilk biscuits earlier in the week and you all consistently (and kindly) ask for the recipe. It’s by Alison Roman and you can get it right here! :)

DINE

I am working on a new post for my dining guide, Bar Bites, which will be a “must-go” list of all of my favorites now that indoor and outdoor dining is available in most places. Admittedly, we haven’t tried any new restaurants as of late, but I am hoping to change that soon as our anniversary and my birthday are coming up!

For now, let me say this: most days I’m craving breakfast at Twist, debating a late lunch at Woodman’s, and frequently considering cocktails and fries at The Stones. There are many wonderful restaurants in and around Boston and we love to support the local businesses as much as possible. These are just three of the numerous options available. :)

PS: We recently started going back to Tavern in the Square and I was very impressed with their menu changes/updates (same choices, better presentation, big portions). A plethora of delicious, gluten free bar food. ;)

SHOP

Finally re-ordered R+CO shampoo and conditioner (trying Bel Air Smoothing this time) because I’ve been out for a while. Their hair products are great!

On the skincare front, I just ran out of vitamin C serum so I ordered this one from Obagi which has been highly rated and strongly recommended.

Another shoutout to x Karla tops because they’re so comfy and go perfectly with all of my extra-high-rise jeans (easy outfit alert).

Speaking of comfort, it’s never a bad idea to stock up on comfy pants. My favorite is the Dreamy Pajama Jogger at J.Crew (currently on sale!).

Does anyone else like these neon enamel bracelets? Kind of fun, I think.

And finally, I’m thinking about this eco-conscious duffel for quick weekend getaways (or as an extra bag for longer trips).

Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Mollie