It’s What’s Up Wednesday !
Friends, TOMORROW IS AUGUST!!!
How did that happen?
Like seriously, how?
I do not like the fact that our “summer” is over before Labor Day. I so wish we got out right before Memorial Day and then didn’t go back until after Labor Day. If you have that schedule, I AM SO JEALOUS. That being said, I’ve switched over my Pinterest boards to “back to school” and am getting all amped up for #allthebacktoschool fun.
Now, if you’re new to WUW, on the last Wednesday of every month, Sheaffer and I host this little link up where we share what’s going on with us right now. It’s a little food, a little family, a little what we’re wearing, a little what we’re doing, a little what we’re watching and a little bit of everything else all in one post. This month, Sheaffer is taking a WUW break and blogging about something else but to see what she’s up to, make sure you click HERE.
In the meantime, let’s see what’s up with us on this last day of JULY!
1: WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK:
Half my peeps are gone to NYC this week to see those dang Yankees, so our week is a little wonky. If you missed this…
…you can check my MEAL PLANNING MONDAY HERE.
Also, don’t forget this…
…if you’re not pulling out your slow cookers this time of year, YOU SHOULD BE!! You can find my SUMMER SLOW COOKER RECIPES HERE.
2. WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT:
Oh Nantucket, I miss you. We’re still talking about The Juice Bar and reminiscing about one of our favorite vacations over here.
3: WHAT I’M LOVING:
These…
…my whole family is obsessed. Anyone else? I found them at Costco (they also had a cheddar version), but we love the Parm. They’re crispy little cheesy bites that make me so happy. The other day, Andrew and I were basically fighting over the bag. My kids eat them like candy. I’m telling you…GET THEM.
4: WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO:
What have we been up to?
I don’t know?
This week, Ashby couldn’t swim, so we went to see The Lion King (loved it!) on Monday and then they left on Tuesday.
I don’t know???
Kensington has been at our church day camp thing all week, so it’s just been Mades and me. Today, we’re going to Trader Joe’s. Exciting, right? 😉
5: WHAT I’M DREADING:
Ashby’s next procedure.
6: WHAT I’M WORKING ON:
I’m starting to work on FALL RECIPES around here!
I always make recipes for my blog about 6 weeks in advance, so everything is turning into apples and cinnamon in my kitchen. Who wants to come over and smell? It’s delicious!
WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT:
Have you checked out Mix and Match Travel Agency’s new website??? I’m so excited about that!!
My JULY BOOK REVIEW came out yesterday…
…friends! I read so many great books this month!!! If you haven’t checked it out, click HERE. If you have checked it out, go back and read the comments!! There are so many great book suggestions!
Annnnnnd I’m struggling with Game of Thrones.
I’m on season six, episode three.
I just don’t care any more.
Andrew Shull is going to get so annoyed by this next comment…but I’m bored. (Don’t even say anything to be about it Andrew, I am.)
I think part of my problem is that I’m not watching the show with anyone. I think this might be a show that’s more fun to actually binge watch with others. Right now, I’m in a bad place. I will finish it, but I don’t like it. (My mom and friend Brooke are so upset with me right now. Hahaha!)
9: WHAT I’M LISTENING TO:
Steve Tyrell Radio on Pandora 🙂
10: WHAT I’M WEARING:
Give me #allthedresses this time of year! They’re just light, easy to wear and make you look pulled together even when you’re not (plus, they’re comfy too!)…
This super comfy knit dress has been worn just about once a week for the last month. It is so comfy!! I think it will work for fall too!!
And I’m still in love with this romper too 🙂 .
11: WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND:
On Friday, it’s my better half’s BIRTHDAY! We’re going to celebrate this girl this weekend!!
12: WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH:
Ohhhh…I don’t know.
I’m still bitter that school is starting halfway through the month.
I guess I’m looking forward to the anticipation of Fall 😉 .
13: WHAT ELSE IS NEW:
I don’t think anything else is new today! I’m heading to Trader Joe’s…any suggestions for my shopping cart???
That wraps up What’s Up Wednesday! If you also blogged today, make sure you link up below! Have the best day!!
Lauren says
If you like spicy, try the Bloody Mary salsa! I also gave up on GoT at around the same point you are. It was getting too depressing and didn’t feel like it was going anywhere. I had also heard how quickly the show goes downhill in the last few seasons so I figured I wouldn’t waste my time.
Lauren
http://www.allaboutthatmommylife.com
Amy Scott says
I have a few blog posts about what I buy if you put Trader Joe’s in my search bar. The blueberry goat cheese log is to die for, the everything bagel ciabatta rolls are amazing for a breakfast or a hot sandwich. Love the giant macaroni noodles for Mac and cheese. I love their 7 grain bread for my avocado toast. I buy the cooked chicken to have on hand for nachos and quesadillas. Love their baking mixes, too. Let us know what you get!
Holley@beesimplyorganized.com says
I need to just go ahead and buy those cheese crisps! I’ve been avoiding them at Costco because I know between the three of us the bag will be gone in one sitting. 🙂 Love your dresses! And how fun is it that it’s just you and Madeley! I honestly have no idea why the whole nation doesn’t just have school from Labor Day to Memorial Day…my husband explained it to me with all the law terminology once but I’m still in favor of LD-MD school year! That would be AMAZING!!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Haha, I seriously love how tanned the kids are in the pictures! And those cheese chips look so good…
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Becky says
We homeschool…I still don’t have a start date. Taking advantage of sunny days.
Mix and Match Mama says
#jealous 😉
Tracie says
All I know about my homeschooling start date is the day our school district starts back, my family will start frequenting all the beaches and natural springs and parks that have been packed all summer ! But we do log every field trip as a school day so it’s win-win anyway.
Alexis deZayas says
I bought the individual bags of those cheese crisps at Costco!! They’re half parm half cheddar and are great to throw in lunches!
Eileen says
We don’t go back to school until after Labor Day, but we don’t end school until June 26th!!!! I’d much rather be off since Memorial Day.
Mother of 3 says
I could not get into Game of Thrones; I tried but I just could not. We just went to Nantucket and I too shared my latest book review (where I also read Summer Sisters!).. clicking over to see what else you read.
Haley says
I seriously have to “hide” the whisps from Ryan ?
Bev says
I was wondering if you had a nick name for Madeley.“ Mades is so cute! Our granddaughter is Madelyn and one of her nick names is “Mads.” ?
Mix and Match Mama says
We call her Mades probably more than Madeley. Haha!
Kate says
Sweet Potato gnocchi should definitely be in your cart. 🙂 It’s delish!
Rosanna Salinas says
Get the bacon cheddar ranch dip from Trader Joe’s! It’s amazing! I had some this weekend with pita chips. Yum!! Also, not sure if you’ve gotten these yet, but the frozen mini croissants are delicious! Taste so fresh out of the oven. 🙂
Erika Slaughter says
Okay, this is the second time I’ve heard you rave about those cheesy crisps! I need to try them STAT! And excited about the weekend! ??
Julie says
Missouri’s governor just signed a bill to make our schools start no earlier than 10 days before the first Monday in September. This goes into effect next school year. I swear growing up I never started until after Labor Day then it just kept getting earlier year after year.
Mix and Match Mama says
Which state do you live in? I need to move there. 😉
Cheri says
The kids here in our town in Ga. started school this past Friday, JULY 26th!!!! I know…crazy. I am from the north, PA to be exact and we always started school after Labor Day, even our children. I have been in Ga 13 years and still can’t get a grasp on school starting so early here (and no snow at Christmas…just had to throw that one in).
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
I need to make those Nutella butterscotch popsicles!! They sound delicious. I love dresses this time of year too, especially colorful ones like yours! Keep going with Game of Thrones, I think it gets better in season 7!!
xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Sheaffer Sims says
Okay, this is going to sound crazy, but pick up the Trader Joe’s canned corn. It’s sooooooooooo much better than regular canned corn. It’s the strangest thing.
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so intrigued!
Sarah says
My mom makes those cheese crisps!! We’ve also purchased the ones from Costco, and while those are AMAZING, you’ve gotta try homemade!!! 10x better!! 🙂
Have fun at TJs today!
-Sarah http://www.thefrugalmillionaireblog.com
Christi says
Trader Joe’s – Sweet potato gnocchi! So good!
And I have a question regarding Ashby. The sweetie has to deal with so much. You’ve expressed the seriousness of her health with limitations. She’s a trooper! But she just had a procedure and then flew to NYC. Doesn’t the flying affect the hand so close to a procedure? Swelling, etc? I’m glad she’s having fun in NYC but just didn’t know how the flying affect her so close to a procedure. Thanks!
And I return to school/work next Friday! In our state we have so many state standardize tests that the start date of school moved up to give students an opportunity to be better prepared for those scheduled tests. I love my job so I’m not sad about going back but I strongly dislike it when the days become shorter.
Mix and Match Mama says
She received approval to travel on Monday. We, of course, would not do anything to compromise her health.
Monica Quiros says
21 Salute Seasoning!! Great on their turkey burger patties & so many other things.
Also, some of their dried lemon slices for water and teas. They don’t get all soggy and yucky
Shan Rocha says
Try those whisps with guacamole …YUM!
We’re on the keto diet and that’s one of our fave snack combos !!
Kelly says
Get the Jerk Chicken Thigh Skewers! Had them for the first time the other night, so good!! Frozen, already cooked, throw them on the grill or in oven for 10 mins. Delish!
Jen says
My daughter loves those cheese crisps! And we go back to school TOMORROW! Ugh! Our district is on a balanced calendar, so they get 2 weeks off for fall break, 2 at Christmas, and 2 for spring break…then 8 weeks for summer. But our summer in Indy was either TOO RAINY or TOO HOT, so I feel like we really missed out on summer break this year! 🙁
I don’t hit Trader Joe’s as often as I should, but I always pick up some of their gorgeous flowers when I do! 🙂
Kelly Lane Nation says
Just wait…season six gets way better. It was my favorite ending to any of the GOT’s seasons.
julie says
Hi Shay-We are obsessed with Trader Joe’s parmesan crisps! Basically the same type of thing as the bag you have but TJ’s version. They are called “Trader Giotto’s oven-baked cheese bites.” We eat them plain or as croutons for a caesar salad! I think you should quit Game of Thrones! I watched the whole thing but like you, was just not that impressed by it and often VERY bored. The last season got a bit better, but if you’re bored, you should totally watch something better. Don’t tell Andrew I said this! ;). Hope you enjoy your time with Madely today!
Jen Chrysler says
As you’re getting ready for the back to school mindset, you’ll need to read the sequel to Class Mom- You’ve Been Volunteered! I saw you mentioned yesterday that it’s coming out soon, but it’s already been released! I loved it even more than the first- it’s still hilariously witty but had even more of an emotional connection. Reading it last week made this time of year a little bit easier to deal with… (I’m a literacy specialist at an elementary school, so I feel you!)
Valerie Allen says
I’m also bitter about the school year starting in 2 weeks. We were just starting to feel rested and like we could enjoy summer, and BAM! it’s almost over. On a happy note, all the fall scents are in at Bath and Body Works.
Susan Matthews says
Trader Joe’s has these bags of baby dried bananas that are like candy and dried oranges. Try them!
Laci says
The whisps are so good and then your friend Amanda told us to use them as a crouton replacement on salads and BAM! So good! Trader Joe’s dark chocolate peanut butter cups are my fave! My kids start school this coming Monday and I am DREADING it so bad!
Patty says
Shay,
If you haven’t tried the Main Mahi burgers or Basalmic glaze at Trader Joe’s you need to try them. Over the last few weeks/months I have professed my love for them on my blog GoodBetterBestFood.blogspot.com
Patty
GoodBetterBestFood.blogspot.com
Brooke Richardson says
Shay, here’s the thing. 😉 I will consider forgiving your statement on GOT if you will start Outlander. Maybe your mom and I can both get on board with that!!! Lol
Laura says
We get out right before Memorial Day but we go back next week (like August 5th). Teachers went back Monday of this week. Summer is so short!
Lisa Richardson says
YES, those Whisps are delish. I like them for my low carb days. Better stock up…Costco doesn’t regularly keep them…at least where I live?
Kenzi says
The new chili-onion-crunch oil is amazing. It is a jar of oil that has bits of onion and other seasoning in it- it is addicting. I’ve made a dip with it using Greek yogurt and have added a bit to just about everything I’ve cooked in the past week. Try it out!
Marie Claas says
On Monday, I made Taco Tortellini Soup for like the 1,000th time, since I got your cookbook! It is an absolute staple in my arsenal of recipes, and always a hit with my family!! I have made it with beef, chicken and turkey – fabulous in every case! Also, yesterday afternoon, I loaded your slow cooker maple oatmeal baked apples into my slow cooker, for our dessert. We also love this recipe, it’s a treat every time I make it!! Just wanted you to know that you make quite a positive impact on so many lives!! Now, if I could only read as fast as you!!! ?
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Marie!! This makes me so happy!! Thank you so much!!
Marie Claas says
Absolutely! Thank YOU! I have 4 kids! You have made dinner decisions so much easier for me. It’s a huge relief to me, to open one of your books and pick just about anything, and know they will eat it! We also love the apple cider bbq chicken sandwiches!
You have also given me “permission” to take time out of my day to read! It’s so important to let moms know that it’s not being selfish to take time to relax. We kind of suspect that it’s ok, but it never hurts to have some assure us! 🙂
So glad you are out there!
Mix and Match Mama says
Marie, thank you so much! You made my day! xo
Marie Claas says
You’re welcome! 🙂
Paula says
Kidss here start school on MONDAY! THIS MONDAY! ????
cassie // hi sugarplum says
Nantucket is now at the top of my travel list, and my Kindle just got a lot more interesting!! Thanks for all the great tips!
Cassidy Benjamin says
I felt the same way about Game of Thrones. I finished it but I was like “ok that’s done” haha!! You’re not alone!
Sonia says
Growing up, my school used to let us out in late May and we’d go back in early August, but here in NYC, they get out in late June and go back after Labor Day! It seems like they’re getting out of school so crazy late here!
Jenny N says
I get those cheese crisps at HEB & Walmart all the time. They are great crumbled up on salads and even better alone!!
Ila says
Try the Asparagus Risotto in the frozen food section. Such a great side dish on busy nights!
Elspeth says
Ahhh I wish I had a Trade Joe’s near me, I would love to try some of these suggestions. Can’t believe summer is almost over!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Morie Smith says
Those Whisps with spinach artichoke dip are my FAVE snack right now!! Those little things are so addicting! It’s so hard not to polish off a bag in one sitting!
Carol says
Love shopping at Trader Joe’s, especially in the fall when they start having all the yummy pumpkin. Looking forward to all of the fall recipes and home tour for fall. Also do you change your makeup routine and hair products according to the season? Love the supergoop matte sunscreen.
Clare Butler says
On days that I’m busy working my diet consists of Whisps, shelled pistachios and La croix… all from Costco. I literally wouldn’t survive without it!
Sarah R says
Dang! I was just at Costco yesterday!
Wisconsin law used to be to start school no earlier than 9/1, but with Labor Day, we usually start the Tuesday after Labor Day. I love it because it feels like Labor Day is just a great end-of-summer celebration. We don’t get out until 6/10 though. It ends up working out because summer weather is very slow to get here! We weren’t able to start swimming until the end of June!
PS – So glad Ashby is feeling better!
Sharon Anderson says
I’m also watching GOT and am on the finale of season 6… keep going… it gets better!! 🙂 My hubby watches it with me, even though he’s already seen the whole show (except for the last season), so maybe Andrew can watch some again with you. I think it helps to have someone to watch with too. I loved when you guys saw and took pics of the famous steps in Greece! Now I want to go there. And now I also need a Trader Joe’s run… pronto!!!
Pamm says
Trader Joe’s Peach Bellini Preserves are awesome! I posted this on your FB post, and one reader replied with a recipe to mix them with Balsamic vinegar for a great salad dressing. Trying this tonight! Also, the vegetable fried rice (frozen) – SO good, and I’m sure with your recipe imagination, the possibilities are endless. I love a Trader Joe’s post, and I also love all the pics of those children being just that, children – living their best life! Adulting happens soon enough.
Kathie says
Greeting cards at Trader Joe’s. Very cute ones and much cheaper.
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
The whisps are great to use as croutons on your salads too!
That Inspired Chick
Erica Werner says
We are headed to Nantucket today. Yay! I purchased the toiletry bag you recommended on prime day. It holds so much and I love all the pockets and it fits nicely into my carry on without taking up too much room. Thanks for the recommendation, Shay! ?
Mix and Match Mama says
Have so much fun!!!
Marilyn says
Have you watched the series Outlander? I am seriously hooked. I finished the 4 seasons and am now reading the books. I will then start watching the series all over again!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t. My parents and my friend Brooke (who both love GOT) keep telling me to watch it. I’m not sure that’s making me want to watch! Hahaha!
Robin says
I hope the link below will work but this episode for Farmhouse Rules was the first place I saw someone make Parmesan crisps. It’s so easy to do, but I also have a bag from Costco in the pantry because sometimes you just need a handful during the day. You can also use other cheese (Asiago was really good) and you can also mix cheeses too if you are really creative. 🙂
https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/nancy-fuller/romaine-salad-with-parmesan-crisps-3557724
janie reinert says
I would love to pop in to watch you cook ! You AMAZE ME !!
Cherise says
Did I get over-charged or are those bags of Whisps really $9.99 at Costco? I couldn’t figure out why my bill was so high and after I got home I saw what they cost. And I bought two bags!
Ella says
I’m feeling so pressured that summer is over since your schools are starting. Where I live we start school after labor Day and get out mid June. My brother is in a private school that just finished last Thursday.
Ellen says
Oh yeah, those Parmesan crisps are so good. I get a salad from Honeygrow that includes those. It’s arugula, whole wheat noodes, roasted mushrooms, roasted broccoli, and the parmesan crisps. SO. GOOD.
Kelly says
I loved your Book Review post this month. I ordered all of the books you liked and put a request in at the library for Beatriz Williams because I just can’t commit to buying one of her books after a few stinkers. What is your countertop in the cheese crisps photo? I’m on the hunt for a new countertop and want a white without too much pattern which is how yours looked at least in the picture.
Brooke says
So, I agree with your friend, Brooke! GOT IS THE BEST!! My favorite show ever and season 6 was unbelievable. I’m so sad it’s over but I think I saw Brooke commented to watch Outlander, that’s a definite watch too! Stick with GOT though, it’s truly cinematic gold. 🙂 ENJOY!
Laura says
Dying over Andrew’s Nantucket outfits!!! Brand new vacation wardrobe?!
The goat cheese and sundried tomato ravioli from TD’s is delish.
Mix and Match Mama says
Nope…that’s what he wears all the time during the summer.
Mary Lawrence says
Hi shay
have you tried a mug cake? Do you have a recipe for one?
Thanks,
Mary Lawrence
Mix and Match Mama says
I know what they are, but I haven’t made one. that would be a good recipe idea for fall or winter though!
Sarah says
Another vote for Outlander!!! I’ve read and watched, sooo so good!!
Emily says
I’m here at my sisters lake house here in Indiana for two weeks and we were just talking yesterday how we remember that we always started school the day AFTER Labor Day and got out with before Memorial Day. The schools here in this area of Indy went back this week. . . .so crazy and way too soon!
Jackie Genovese says
You can move to NY, Shay! We go back to school 2 days after Labor Day, but we are in school until the end of June…and I’m always so jealous when your kids are out much earlier than us! 🙂
Natalie Bayliff says
Hi Shay! I’m LOVING your shoes in your photo with the romper and would love to know where to find a pair. 😉 Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Nordstrom!