Whoa! It’s my first Friday Favorites in over a month!
Where is summer goinnnnnnnnng? I blinked and it’s already July 7th.
Yesterday, Ashby had her 9th procedure in less than 12 months, so today, we’re home recovering. Thank you so much for all of your words of love and encouragement and especially for your prayers. We feel them all!
As always, I’m linking up with three of my besties, Andrea, Erika and Narci and sharing. Happy FRIDAY, friends!!
Have you read my JUNE BOOK REVIEW post yet? I was floored by all of the suggestions you gave me! I ordered 9 books off of Amazon thanks to you girls and your recommendations. I also purged my pile. I have a big dresser filled with books that honestly, I don’t need to read. Many of them are shared from friends and family, which is great, but not all of them are for me, so I need to give them back and clean out my space so that I can see exactly what I should be reading. Sometimes, because I have so many books, it’s overwhelming to select one and I end up grabbing the wrong one. Nine new books are on my shelf and I’m off to read. I already have two books under my belt for July’s review (I read one at the end of June but had already written my post, so I’m throwing on July’s post and then finished another one this week), and I liked both of them. #winning To see my latest review and to read all of the comments (where the VERY best suggestions are!) click HERE.
Have you guys tried making my Watermelon Cupcakes? This recipe is from two years ago but it is one of the most popular recipes this summer on my site! It’s also one of those recipes that my kids request over and over again. If you haven’t tried them yet, you should 🙂 . Click HERE to see the recipe.
Have you guys heard of my sweet friend Alison from Get Your Pretty On? She is just the sweetest, most gracious, thoughtful friend and it has been such a blessing to get to know her over these last few years. She’s a mama to three, loves to travel and another local Dallas girl like me. I adore her! She has collaborated to make silk scarves right here in the U.S. and a portion of the proceeds go to help women and children who are affected by domestic violence. The scarves are beautiful…
…and right now, they’re on sale too. You can see the collection HERE. I am so proud of her and the work she is doing!
Can’t stop, won’t stop wearing this green dress. I’ve worn it now on two trips and around here with my sandals. It’s just easy, easy, easy to throw on and wear. I bought it in green but it comes in six other colors too! (I might need to buy another color!)
I did it.
I watched Lion based on so many of your suggestions.
And I bawled like a baby.
Wow.
Just wow.
This movie is about adoption, and it tore at my heart. I loved it.
Whether adoption is a part of your life or not, I think you will love it too.
Adoption is such a beautiful thing…but it is also such a tragedy too. It’s complex. It’s heartbreaking. It’s full of redemption. I thought this movie captured it all.
I told you guys about this humidity shield spray in one of my recent travel posts, but it totally deserves to be a favorite! I’m using it now in lieu of hairspray and friends…it’s winning against Texas humidity. #miracle I’m telling you…this stuff is like magic!
And look what’s back in stock!!! I have laughed so hard over the emails and comments asking about these shoes…
Ha! My gray Nikes! Friends, I’m obsessed with these shoes. I wore them in Alaska and NYC and LOVED them! They were so comfy and my feet never hurt. They’ve been out of stock now for a while but they’re back! Woohoo! I bought mine a half size up (I typically wear an 8 and bought an 8.5). Love them so much! And bonus, THEY’RE ON MAJOR SALE!
And finally…this is not an exaggeration. I know you’re going to think I am stretching the truth here…but I assure you that I’m not. Ready??? Here I go…
…these are the BEST BAKED BEANS you will ever eat.
Promise.
I’ve had them now 3 times in less than two weeks.
We’re obsessed.
This recipe is from Erika’s mother-in-law Marla (who I adore!) and are seriously the world’s best baked beans. See the recipe HERE and make them TONIGHT!
That wraps up my Friday Favorites for the week! I’m off to snuggle with Miss Ashby 🙂 .
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Just took a look at your watermelon cupcake recipe and I can see why it’s one of your most popular recipes. It’s perfect for summer, and it looks photogenic too!
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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Erika Slaughter says
That Texas humidity shield sounds like magic in a bottle! I need to give that a try it ASAP! And Woo-hoo for the baked beans. Hahaha!! I agree! They’re pretty tasty!
Cristina - Memories of the Pacific says
I had never heard of watermelon cupcakes but it sounds so yummy! Plus, the color is so pretty 🙂
http://www.memoriesofthepacific.com
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
I second both the humidity spray and gray Nikes! I’m a huge fan of both. Those watermelon cupcakes look delicious! Have a great weekend 🙂
xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Bethany says
I’ve never had watermelon cupcakes and now I want them! Watermelons are about $25-$30 here though….sooooo
Laura @ Laura Likes Design says
Oh my goodness! My bestie just told me that they are $10 where she lives (Hawaii) but this is outrageous!
CLM says
Where do you live Bethany. I can’t imagine watermelons are so expensive. Are other fresh fruits that expensive?
Narci Dreffs says
Oh, that hair product looks amazing! I need to check that out stat! Hopping over to those baked beans now, because YUM!! 🙂 Happy Friday!
Carly says
Glad to hear Ashby is home. Have a great relaxed weekend!
kathy says
I’m so glad you liked Lion! I thought you would!
Laura @ Laura Likes Design says
I love the Living Proof dry shampoo and am so pumped to try out the humidity shield now that it is summer! Thanks so much for the recommendation!
Ashley says
I always love reading your book list! And what a great hair humidity tip. I’m from Memphis and well you can never get enough help with the humidity. I’ll also have to add that movie to my list- thanks for sharing your favorites. Happy weekend!
Elspeth Mizner says
Can’t wait to try the watermelon cupcakes!! I’ve tried a few other of you recipes and they are always a hit! How did you come up with the watermelon ones? Hope Ashby is recovering well! Happy Friday Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
I was trying to think of as many ways to use watermelon in a food as I could ;).
Elspeth Mizner says
That’s the best! I’m always trying to come up with fun, New treats! Thanks for the recipes! Have a wonderful weekend!!!
Megan says
Lion. I have sat down several times to watch it then changed my mind at the last second. I know it’s going to be so emotional. Currently in the thick of adoption number two and I’m already emotionally frayed. But everyone just raves about how well it is done. On a completely unrelated note, everyone in my family loves baked beans and I think they are completely disgusting. So I need a tried and true recipe that I don’t have to taste!
http://www.lettinginthelightblog.com
Tracy Borgmeyer says
We just got back from Washington DC and I literally only used your DC post to plan our trip. As always thank you for making my life easier! I used to be a total Frommer’s girl but I enjoyed your post (with pictures) to plan our trip. The guacamole at Rosa Mexicana was AMAZING and we bumped into a senator there! Oh and we couldn’t have done it with our three small kids without two strollers – genius pro tip! Thank you again!
Alexis deZayas says
I got to visit McKinney this weekend for the second time and had the best time! It was definitely a Friday favorite of mine thanks to you!
Brooke Richardson says
How have we not talked about Lion yet?? I watched it on the plane ride to China and have not stopped talking about it since. It’s so so good!!
Heather S says
You NEED no MUST try the Living Proof PhD in-shower styler! It’s perfect for mamas on the go who want beachy waves! You just apply a tiny bit after you s&c like normal, barely rinse it out after and scrunch when you get out. So easy and the waves are fab!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I think we all love your gray tennis shoes because they look great with jeans! It’s hard to find a tennis shoe that looks good with jeans and shorts–more stylish and less sporty! And Living Proof products are the best! I swear by their dry shampoo!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
MorganT says
sort of funny how your Friday favorites have turned into just more promotions about YOU!! your book reviews, your recipes, your friends’ blogs… sensing a theme!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, because they’re my favorites :).
Stacy says
Shocker that her blog would actually be about HER!
Melissa says
Ha!!! 🙂
Laura says
My morning has been derailed in a great way because I’m reading the comments on your book review post! I love your reviews and read it right away, but I missed the comments. You should see the page I’ve filled up writing down book recommendations! Love it! Oh, and I love the green dress, Nike shoes, and the scarves look so pretty too. Happy Friday!
Sheaffer Sims says
So many things: 1) I’ve been wanting to watch Lion. I hear it’s truly wonderful. 2) That green dress looks great on you! 3) Now I want baked beans and watermelon cupcakes for breakfast.
Kim says
You crack me up! You must be hilarious to hang out with!! Right, Shay?? When you read Shay’s blog you pick up a bonus friend or two ha!
Mix and Match Mama says
Sheaffer is HILARIOUS!
Kim says
I can tell from her comments and I love her Bachelor recaps! I die every time!! You are lucky, laughter is the best medicine!! Happy Weekend!! ?
Courtney says
I must watch that movie – thanks for sharing, I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Prayers for miss Ashby as she recovers. Enjoy the weekend!
XO
Courtney
Ann Marie Tennison says
GIVE me ALLLLLL the humidity hair sprat! STAT~ Can’t wait to try it!
Danielle Rigg says
Hair question…I swim as much as you do with my kids. We have a salt water pool, but my hair for swimming and th sun is so dry. Any suggestions? Thanks. Hope Ashby is feeling well.?
Mix and Match Mama says
I almost always put conditioner or coconut oil on my hair before I swim to combat all of that!
KimW says
Shay could you comment on the sizing of the Lucky Brand top you are wearing with the white shorts and Nike tennis shoes? I noticed it is on sale and I don’t know if I should order XS or S… if I wear a XS at loft would I order an XS? Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I am wearing xsmall :)!
Cori says
Where can I find the shorts you are wearing with the nike shoes?
Mix and Match Mama says
Those are Vineyard Vines!
Mary says
If you liked the movie “Lion”, then you should read the book, “A Long Way Home”. It goes into much more detail about how Saroo got lost, found, and then found his family again. Great read!
Kathy says
Yes, great book too!
Kim says
Hi there! I love reading your blogs, they start off my morning :). Have you ever thought about getting a kindle? I know it’s hard to switch from classic books to an e reader, I was hesitant myself, but I LOVE mine now. It’s so convenient and easy and I can have as many books as I want without sacrificing space. It’s easy to see in the sun, and some have a backlight where you can read in the dark as well. I also personally like the option with some books to switch between reading and listening, because when I’m in the car or working or cleaning I can put headphones in and listen to a book I’ve been dying to finish?. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Brooke says
Lion, one of the best movies ever. Orderjng those nikes now- thank you for the great sale link. I ADORE all your dresses, but I’m just too stinking tall to wear
any of them, they’d be shirts on me! Prayers for miss Abby and a terrific weekend! Enjoy the summer!!
Angelique says
Umm, I didn’t realize it until just now but I think my old Nikes need to be replaced … those grey ones are so CUTE! Now if I can convince myself I need a night of crying and watch Lion. Hmmm…
http://www.FourPointsMom.com
Kathy L says
Going on our cruise to Alaska on July 22nd and those grey Nike shoes sound great. May I ask why you decided to go a 1/2 size up in them? Sometimes I wear a size 7 and sometimes I wear a 7.5 depending on the shoe so I’m completely torn about whether to order online or find a Finish Line store and go try them on!
Tina says
I’m curious about this too! I only have one pair of shoes in my whole closet that are not a 7.5. So, I’m afraid to size up. I’ll tell you though, Kathy…I tried the pick up in store option and it doesn’t appear that they carry them in stores.? Says “not available in any stores…”
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
The watermelon cupcakes look like a MUST before summer is out!! And those baked beans for sure!! Happy Friday, friend!
That Inspired Chick
Jennibell says
Thank you so much for reposting the link to your comments on your June book review. Even though I had already read it (and commented!) I went back to see what has been added. I flip back-and-forth as I’m reading the comments between the post and my account at the library….kinda glad I had to put many on hold – I already have a stack to read! I think these will get me through the next few months :). Just finished One True Loves (can you give something SIX stars?) and currently have Crazy Rich Asians in my lap. I might just have to purchase The Identicals 🙂 Great link about EH that one of your readers posted ….
Melissa Sexton says
Shay help please! I am going to Disneyland with my family for 3 days the beginning of August. I have researched Pinterest, your blog, Erica’s blog….everything I can get my hands on trying to figure out what shoes to wear! I know it will be hot and we may be on rides with water but I absolutely want to be comfortable also. Toms, Sketchers, sneakers, I just don’t know.? Do you (or anyone else reading this) have a suggestion? I would very much appreciate any input! Thank you from a very dramatic shoe buyer.?
Mix and Match Mama says
Sketchers, shorts and a light top (with maybe a sports bra underneath). Have so much fun!
Kelly Franks says
What socks do you wear with your nikes?? Are they no show? I started a new job this week and haven’t been able to read blogs so I’m catching up on everything today! Love me some Friday Favorites!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I wear basic no show socks!
Whitney Pegram says
I’m not one to wear tennis shoes often but those nikes have me wanting to start! 😉 And those watermelon cupcakes look amazing!! Happy Friday, friend!
cassie {hi sugarplum} says
Great round up of faves…happy weekend, friend!
Katie says
I NEED those Nike’s but could not tell you the last time I owned tennis shoes other than New Balance. Any idea how the sizing of the two brands compare? I typically am a 7.5 in NB. TIA!
Emalie says
I am loving the gym shoes and must order the living proof spray!!
Happy Friday!
Prayers to sweet Ashby,
xo
http://balancinginslippers.blogspot.com/2017/07/friday-favorites.html
Jenny says
Those watermelon cupcakes look so good. I’m thinking today might be a great day to try those out. Have a great weekend! 🙂
Kathryn Story says
I LOVE your blog!! You’ve inspired me to read more, and I was curious if you’ve ever thought about getting a Kindle. I love mine… ordering books is super easy (and cheaper!) and then you don’t end up with a ton of books lying around the house. Happy Friday. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
I just love the feel of a book in my hands. Is that weird?
Mary Jane McNeill says
Shay, I was going to leave this comment on your monthly book review, but opted for here instead…
Have you read any Charles Martin? He’s a Christian author with a mainstream push. His book “The Mountain Between Us” is one of my TOP 5 BEST BOOKS EVER and it’s a movie releasing soon with Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. My second suggestion is author Louise Penny. They are well-written mysteries set in a little hamlet in Canada. You should start with “Still Life”.
And have you seen the movie “Grey Lady” yet? It was filmed entirely on Nantucket, and my BFF and I saw it when we were there in May. Actor John Shea (who lives on Nantucket) directed it and came to the showing after the credits rolled and talked to us for about an hour, and even took us around to a couple of places that were in the movie. It stars Eric Dane. Let me know what you think!
Caitlin says
Shay, I am such a fan of your blog. I am also a hug fan of Elin Hilderbrand and Frasier:) I hate to add to your long book list, but I really think you need to check out the author Anita Hughes. My favorites are “Lake Como,” “French Coast” and “Market Street” They all take place in amazing locations and you will love them.
heidi says
Ashby is such a happy courageous soul. What a Blessing you ate too each other.
I love alison at GYPO.. such a darling!
Julie Goolsby says
Yes, I LOVED the movie “Lion”!!!! So glad you saw it and enjoyed it too!! It’s powerful, heart wrenching and beautiful.
Nicole Klaver says
Question about your Nikes! Do you like them better than your GoWalks? Also, could you work out in them? Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes! I work out in them now too!! And they’re just different than the Go Walks. I love both…but the Nikes feel more like athletic shoes.
Alexis says
The other tennis shoes you like are the Sketchers Go Walk, right? I am planning on getting a pair! They’re so cute and so comfy.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!! Love those!
Alexis says
Skechers…sorry for the typo! 🙂
Liz Thorson says
Thinking about sweet, brave, precious Ashby and hoping the latest procedure will help her and that her recovery is not too long or painful. I ❤️ the feel of a book in my hand, too. I am so not a fan of Kindle.
Stephanie says
If you enjoyed the movie ” Lion” you should listen to the audiobook!! It is simply amazing !!
Natalie says
Hi Shay.. love Friday favorites. Where are your shorts from? I love them. The pink ones and the white ones., Have a great weekend…
Mix and Match Mama says
Those are from Vineyard Vines!! Happy Saturday!
Olivia says
Gonna see about that humidity control…my hair is a frizz bomb otherwise. Also definitely making those beans. We love baked beans.
Dani Fry says
Lion made me bawl like a baby. So sad, and beautiful, and hard. A wonderful and sad story. So many emotions.
Allie says
I haven’t watched Lion yet but I listened to the book on audio and it was fantastic. I could not stop talking about it for weeks. I really need to watch the movie too.
Shelly says
I grabbed the living proof humidity spray….and holy heck….I concur it definitely works! My hair held up the best it has in forever with this crazy heat!
Angela Ellingson says
Just ordered the Nikes! I’ve been in need of new athletic shoes for some time, so thanks for the recommendation and comment about ordering a half size up. Stopping to say a prayer for Ashby now. Hope she’s doing well.
Jocelynn says
This is so off topic! Where is the best place to sit at a baseball game? We are going to a major league game in September and were going to buy tickets behind home plate. I thought I’d ask a lover of baseball! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
As close as you can get to home plate, the better :).
Elise says
My daughter LOVES watermelon so I knew she’d want to make your watermelon cupcakes when I saw them. They were delicious! I have a feeling we’ll be making them a lot.
Michelle Bynum says
❤️ Your Friday favs! What brand are Kensington’s tennis shoes in this post? Love them and they look super comfy! Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Sketcher Go Walks!
Detroit Duchess says
I loved Lion and bawled my eyes out pretty much the whole movie. It really touched me – I had no idea what it was about before I saw it either or that it was based off of a true story! I really want to read the book now.