Notes From Around Here

Summer feels wonderfully chaotic over here lately... a few little home updates, what I've been reading, pieces I'm loving, and a handful of things worth sharing.

Hi from a quiet corner of my house... which is feeling like a rarity this summer. 🤍

I’m currently averaging about four kids over here at some point every day. During the World Cup games, it was more like six boys. Somehow, the more kids in the mix, the easier it gets?! It always feels like the house is full, my snack pantry is empty... and if I can keep my white couch white through the rest of the summer despite how many strawberries have been eaten on it, it’ll be nothing short of a miracle.

So far, so good... and on that note, I recently washed all of the slipcovers, and wow—that’s one of the most underrated little home refreshes. A freshly cleaned couch just feels so good.

Since I’m often asked, our couch is the Dune from Maiden Home. We’ve had it for over three years now, and it’s been such a great one for our family. It still looks remarkably good, all things considered. One other nice thing to know: you can order replacement slipcovers from Maiden Home if you ever need them.

And this is my favorite chair to curl up in with a book. I have it in the toffee shearling.

One of my recent little home projects... I had these framed, and it’s another reminder that framing truly makes all the difference.

They’re actually the backs of menus from breakfast at The Greenwich Hotel in New York. One of my favorite hotels, and every time I look at them, they take me right back to so many wonderful stays there over the years.

I may have quietly tucked them into my bag after breakfast...

Currently burning: Costal, with notes of warm rose and bright citrus. The vessel was designed by ceramicist Jonathan Yamakami for Ulla Johnson, and it's just as beautiful to keep on display once the candle is finished.

In Recent Reads |

I just finished The Plunge—darker, set in New York, and full of complicated relationships, regret, and all the what-ifs. Right up my alley. It kind of gave me White Lotus vibes toward the end. And was a nice switch-up from all of the lighter romances I’ve been reading this summer. Although loving all of those happier stories too.

On that note, and on the lighter side, I also recently read Dolly All the Time and Truly Yours, and thought they were both really cute. They have the same vibe—fake dating that turns into something more. Predictable, but in the best way. Easy, light reads to bring to the pool.

Next up: I just started Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors — I was still in the mood for something in the same vein as The Plunge, and I'd heard good things. Plus, I really love Coco Mellors' writing.

We've had painters here all week, so I've been patiently waiting to put the house back together. I added desks to this little back corner of our family room for the kids, and I can't wait to see it all finished.

Speaking of kids and a few things we’ve been loving lately...

The Tin Can phone has been really fun for them. There’s something so sweet about hearing them on the phone and to have neighborhood friends call the house on a landline to see if they can ride bikes / play.

This Stickerbox has also been a huge hit. It’s sparked so many laughs and keeps them entertained for hours (prints any sticker they dream up). It would make a great gift.

And on the wellness front, I just ordered Hiya’s Daily Multivitamin along with their Daily Growth & Protein. Willow loved decorating her refillable vitamin bottle, which somehow turned taking vitamins into one less thing to negotiate in our morning routine. I’ll report back once we’ve had a little more time with them.

A noteworthy V-neck. The weight, the drape, and the slightly lower neckline make it such a good summer fisherman. Something about it transports me to a dock in Tahoe.

Loving this bag brand—such a good shape / and this larger tote is a great size to carry a laptop / all the things.

5 More Things Of Note:

Jane Pope’s annual sale is next week and I’ll have early access for you on Friday — currently working on another post to share a bit more of my favorite pieces and the chain lengths that I own. So stay tuned! (Here’s my JP capsule in the meantime).

This lower-heeled sandal is currently in my cart. I have an older gray satin version and find myself grabbing for them all the time to wear with denim. It’s just that ideal kitten height. (Also comes in black).

I’ve been living in breezy button-ups and longer shorts. Currently craving a really great brighter blue Oxford or more pale pink.

Wanting everything Jamie Haller to pull me out of my everyday easy casual mid-summer style rut. These shorts and/or the Donni shorts feel like I’d pairs I’d live in.

A home site to know: Abask. One of my favorite discoveries lately. So many chic home finds and such a good destination for gifts. I just got this rattan bottle holder and even the box / packaging it came in was equally as gorgeous.