Though often shrouded in mist and fog, the Grey Lady’s spirit is a far cry from its moniker. Humbly boasting a historic downtown with cobblestoned streets and overflowing with charm, the often nautically-themed shops and exquisite food alone could take you through a couple days. But Nantucket only begins there. Four nights and four full days didn’t do the island — or us — justice...with so much to offer from Steps Beach and Surfside, scenic drives to lighthouses, the Bluff Walk in ‘Sconset, and biking to home-envy, we’re already planning our return in the quiet of the off-season. (Speaking of homes, I could go back merely to walk Union, Orange, and Cliff roads — not to mention all of ‘Sconset — to take note of the charming door knockers and rose trellises alone.) Bustling but equally quiet, this New England island reeks of the salty fairytale-like charm you read about in novels, and gifted us a rather inimitable adventure.

Six months ago we said “I do.” It’s been a joyous whirlwind, but if history is my guide, it’s only going to move faster. So it’s high time I sat down and shared some of our wedding day details: those things that added a touch of invisible sparkle, brought warmth to our hearts, and carried those we love with us. Barely noticeable yet cherished objects, fleeting moments, and glimses of the sun’s reflection fill me with emotion and it’s these things that create the story of our lives, whether we realize it at the time or not.

Details mean different things to different people, but for us, it was largely about having our day be just that — our day — and for me personally, it had a lot to do with finding ways for my late father be with me in spirit. We were swayed from an elopement to a celebration with family, but made sure everything we did was in keeping with our initial concept of peace, intimacy, and simplicity. We stripped the ceremony and celebration down to the root of our celebration: love.

The days are long, the weather is hot, and the fireflies are aglow. It can only mean one thing: Independence Day has nearly arrived. The Fourth has always been one of my favorite holidays, if not just because of the summer magic I associate with it. Sundresses blow in the summer breeze, watermelon slices disappear from a plate, the smell of charcoal wafts through the air. Patriotic tunes enchant parks from sea to sea, striped blankets create a patchwork quilt over large swaths of grass, and bright bursts of colorful sparks fill the night sky. It's simply the best! 

But what would summer be with out fresh berries bedecking every meal? Berries and cream are a must during these warmth summer months, and what better version exists than the strawberry shortcake? 

It's hard to believe (in the best way possible!) that Luke and I will be married at the end of July. In June, the summer is not yet ripe, the days are still at their longest, and the "end of July" usually sounds so distant, so far off. This year, however, with there being such a momentous occasion on the 21st, it feels more like a mere blink away. (And now that we're officially inside the one-month window, it's going to fly...)

This weekend’s edition of Retreats… how I unwind and recharge in 2.5 days flat.

The idea arrived on a warm spring Saturday. My parents were house-hunting for their second home in preparation for my arrival later that year, and decided to take a peek at an old farm home in New Canaan, the next just town next door. 

This weekend’s edition of Retreats… how I unwind and recharge in 2.5 days flat.

It's National Peanut Butter Cookie Day today and I can think of no better way to celebrate it and these warm summer days than by making one of my all-time faves: the ice cream sandwich. (Eaten outside, picnic-style... What kind of frozen summer treat would it be if the ice cream weren't melting all over my fingers?)

There are few things as refreshing on a hot summer day as a cool ice cream float. Included in this post are my favorite five no-fuss combinations, beginning with the Creamsicle Float I shared on Instagram for National Creamsicle Day.