Hello and happy Friday! This week was a hot one and the photo above does not do justice to the intense, daily humidity. Phew! I hope you stayed cool, wore a mask when going out, and stayed away from other people as much as possible. We’re living in interesting times! But I’m determined to still make the best of summer.

We will need these summer memories come January, so despite my frustration at the heat, I know it’s fleeting. I’m not stocking up on sweatshirts and fleece for nothing. ;)

Let’s get to the Buffet, shall we? Read up and have a great, safe weekend.

READ

A good read about racism. I’m so glad one of my favorite blogs has finally diversified their writers; the content has been excellent, and much more relevant, as of late.

I love this series from The Cut called “Write It.” As a writer ( is that what I am?) I found a lot of this very relatable.

I guess the “tip is included” part of life has come to an end. Remember: you must tip well! Even for takeout. It’s important.

COOK

Have you seen our original recipes yet?! They’re finally here! We already added a new one, Thai Basil Shrimp Fried Rice, and have plans for more delicious dishes next week. Yes, we’ve also included my go-to summer cocktail.

After you’ve reviewed our recipes, I might suggest making these as well…

Sriracha Lime Noodle Salad - This meatless meal is calling my name! It’s wicked hot around here so a cold-noodle dinner will be just perfect.

Farmer’s Market Farro Bowls - These are perfect for the abundance of veggies we’re looking to incorporate into meals right now. I’d swap out the farro for brown rice to make it gluten free.

Yum Nua - This is a Thai beef salad that’s spicy and looks pretty much ideal summer dinner fare. I need to make this one very soon.

Blueberry-Ginger Buckle - Blueberry season! Berries galore! This dessert/breakfast cake looks delicious. I may need to come back from my baking hiatus to whip this up on the weekend.

DINE

It’s takeout season (isn’t it always?) and here’s what we’ve been ordering…

Please note: my primary “needs” when ordering takeout tend to be fried. We cook a lot of everything at home so my takeout order is usually pretty straightforward. ;)

The Stones Common House and Kitchen - Order the fries and a big salad. Or the veggie burger (no bun). You’re welcome.

Woodman’s of Essex - Order a “fisherman’s platter” which I created to be my favorite trio: fried clams, fried calamari, fried popcorn shrimp. It’s all gluten free and glorious.

Bar Bites to my favorite Boston-area takeout.

Here is my Bar Bites Beyond guide to southern Maine.

SHOP

Ordered a new-to-me brand (Elemis) of face moisturizer as my usual one from Drunk Elephant ran out sooner than I anticipated. I’ll have to let you know how it is!

We ordered this gluten free pizza cookbook and I cannot wait to make everything in it. Several friends have given it rave reviews!

Seeking sneakers? York Athletics is having a great warehouse sale. I’d highly recommend checking out this local brand - I wear their sneakers daily for my walks and workouts.

Enjoy! Wear a mask.

Mollie