Hello! Happy Friday!

I’m so glad that the rain (and chill) of MDW has cleared and we’ve got a bright, sunny, and hot weekend ahead. I figure, if it’s going to be summer, it might as well be summer. Get those fans and air conditioners ready, friends, I think a heat wave may be coming up. The humidity has most definitely arrived.

This was a good, busy week that included work, walks, grilling, and cutting my hair! Yes, I finally got a haircut after 17(!!) months and my goodness it felt great. I feel lighter, happier, and far more stylish. And while the heat and humidity will try to ruin my fresh cut, I’m still thrilled with the new, shorter length. Now, I just need to buy a curling iron, and lots of anti-frizz cream, to make it look salon-styled all of the time. ;)

In other news, this week’s Buffet has summery reads, recipes for hot nights, a handful of my favorite seafood restaurants, and shopping. There are still sales galore right now so I’m sharing some items I’m considering adding to my cart(s).

Have a great weekend! Please, if you haven’t yet, go get vaccinated.

READ

Did you see the video/news story this week about the teenager saving her dogs from a real, live bear?! Wowza.

A very detailed moisturizer roundup for every skin type. The one I’m using daily (for the summer) is included!

Why yes, I do think a smaller menu (fewer options) is a good idea for restaurants.

A great-sounding potato salad for the summer that has an excellent tip included.

Suddenly craving an iced chai thanks to this piece.

In addition to loving vintage rugs, I’m considering adding a jute or sisal one to our house as well. I love many of the rugs on this list!

A good read about money-saving tips for the next time you go to the grocery store. Shopping when hungry is not advised (oops).

COOK

Definitely making this sheet-pan gnocchi with Trader' Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi. Will report back!

We will need cold shrimp in dill cream sauce for next week’s heat wave..

This week’s meals included guacamole turkey burgers and I cannot recommend them enough! Extremely delicious, healthy, and hearty.

Honestly, I could eat meatballs every night of the week. Pork Meatballs and Cucumber Salad will be making an appearance next week, no doubt.

A deconstructed falafel salad sounds perfect for weeknight meal on the deck.

Nothing says “easy summer meal” quite like baked chicken nuggets. I love that several sauce options are included, too.

DINE

Restaurants are back, my friends, and omg it’s such a delight to be able to go out as we please.

Today’s focus? Seafood! I strongly recommend visiting each and every restaurant below - it’s a truly wonderful bunch.

The Bancroft - order the colossal shrimp cocktail with a cocktail ;).

J.T. Farnham’s - GF fried seafood (and onion rings) with a fantastic view.

Legal Seafoods - an institution that has all of the classics - I love the Boston Seaport location.

Spinnaker’s - head up to Wells, Maine for this joyful spot - GF fried seafood, fries, and more.

The Trap - a sweet spot in Ogunquit, Maine that has the best - gluten free - fried oysters.

Woodman’s of Essex - another local institution that has GF fried seafood, fresh lobsters, a great view, and more.

SHOP

Lots of outdoor dining may require this breezy linen dress. In a few colors…

I’m considering a number of items from the current Tory Sport sale. I love this line for workout gear.

No, I don’t need more shoes, but thanks for asking. I am very intrigued by these Tory Burch water espadrilles.

We’ve cleaned the attic and it will eventually be a spare living room. I think it’s a good spot for this fun Ruggable option.

Many of you recommended this Beachwaver Pro curling iron and this T3 Singlepass one when I asked for recommendations. I’ll report back once I make a decision and purchase!

Enjoy!

Mollie