Oh friends, just like you, my heart is so heavy this morning. I know you come here for a happy spot on the internet and even though my heart often breaks for things around the world, I try to keep that sadness and pain away from this page…but yesterday’s school shooting just hit me. I am just heartbroken. I have been thinking about those children, teachers, families and community since I heard about it yesterday. I don’t know? I know this is a happy space on the internet where we come for joy, but that was pure evil. I have been praying so much for those victims’ families, for the community, the school…I have just been praying. I couldn’t not say something today. I’m just praying so much. You know, it’s been almost 15 years here in blogger world, and I get excited every single time I publish a post. I love this little community so much and am always SO THANKFUL for each one of you! I’m also thankful because I know this community has a huge heart and is praying too. So many prayers.
As always, on the last Wednesday of every month, Sheaffer and I host this little linky party 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. It’s joy. I just want this post to be a bright spot today for you.
Here we go…
1: WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK:
If it’s not off the grill, it’s probably not on our plate! Did you catch yesterday’s recipe for my Honey Chipotle Chicken? It’s super simple, can feed a crowd and really delish!
I consider myself the queen of burgers, so if you’re looking for a fun, new version, might I suggest…
…my Dill Pickle Burgers for your week? You can actually find all of my off the grill recipes (from salads to entrees, seafood, pork, chicken, beef and even mushrooms!) HERE!
Who doesn’t love grilling season?! I’m all about it right now!
2. WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT:
I mean…where did this baby go? Seriously, where did she go? My mom sent me this photo the other night, and I had all the feels for how big she’s now gotten. Look at those chubby little baby thighs! Agh! She’s still the sweetest!
She joined the swim team this summer and had her first practice on Monday. They practice early every morning in the freezing cold pool and of course, she loves it 🙂 .
3: WHAT I’M LOVING:
Guess what?! Guess what?! Victoria Emerson asked me if they could collaborate with me again today because they’re having a HUGE SITE-WIDE SALE on all of the fun pieces I’ve been wearing over the last six weeks!
Um, YES!!!!
You know how much I love partnering with Victoria Emerson. I love their jewelry, and I LOVE that they often have their fabulous pieces ON SALE!
Right now, shop Boho Cuffs up to 50% off and everything else is 40% off site-wide!
Let me remind you what pieces I’ve been wearing on repeat this spring…
From left to right: KNOTTED BEADED CHAIN BRACELET (sold out)//LAYERED METAL CHAIN NECKLACE//LAYERED GOLD NECKLACE//CHAIN NECKLACE//GOLD PEARL HUGGIES//DAINTY GOLD HUGGIES//PEARL DROP EARRINGS//CAROLINA BRACELET//ALEJANDRA BRACELET//HEART NECKLACE// AMIRAH BRACELET
…is basically on me every single day!
Just look…
Love with my loves…
…I just don’t ever take it off because it’s light, it’s dainty, it layers well, it works alone…
…it’s so super cute (so are the pearl huggie earrings by the way!)…
…and right now, it’s 40% off with code SHAY!
These little PEARL HUGGIES just make me extra happy 🙂 .
If you’ve never worn their bracelets before, they’re easy to clasp on, and it makes it appear as if you have on a stack of bracelets when in fact, it’s just one.
So, no matter what you love, it’s ON SALE TODAY!! Thank you, Victoria Emerson!!
4: WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO:
Growing up…
…someone come hold me. They are all just getting so BIG!!!
5: WHAT I’M DREADING:
I am 99.9% sure I say this every year, but those freaking mosquitoes are going to be the death of me. We have them pretty under control at our house, but unfortunately, we don’t stay at our house, and Ashby and me are getting eatin’ alive. What I need are your best tips for fighting mosquitoes when you leave your home. Ashby was out riding bikes with friends in the neighborhood and came home the other night looking like she had chicken pox! Help!
6: WHAT I’M WORKING ON:
New ways to enter to win are up every single day! Make sure you go back to my APPLE WATCH GIVEAWAY post and check out the Rafflecopter at the bottom for the updated entries!!
7: WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT:
Summer vacation plans. We are ready!
8: WHAT I’M WATCHING/READING:
My mom basically came to my house, held me down and told me I had to put down my books and watch this show on Netflix or else our relationship was over. She was right. I started it this week and already LOVE IT! #momalwaysknowsbest
9: WHAT I’M LISTENING TO:
Right this minute, it’s uber early in the morning and the only thing I’m listening to is my Magic Candle Co. candle burning. Have you tried these yet? You know I burn one every single day in my office without fail. Not only do they smell amazing, but they make this “fire in a fireplace” sound while they burn that’s so soothing. I love it.
10: WHAT I’M WEARING:
You guys, I’m having a moment with Old Navy dresses! I saw a friend wearing the cutest dress the other day and when I complimented it, she told me it was from Old Navy. I went online myself and bought these two…
…how cute is this dress?! Plus, IT HAS POCKETS!! I love a dress with pockets 🙂 . You WILL NOT BELIEVE the price too!! I bought it TTS (xs). It comes in other colors as well!
My wedges are HERE (the color is tortilla).
I also bought…
…THIS DRESS here too! It also runs TTS and comes in other colors. It looks great alone or with…
…a denim jacket 🙂 . This one is out of stock, but THIS ONE is the same brand.
So cute, so comfy and so simple for summer! Is there anything better than a comfy dress on a hot day? I think not.
From long to short, each one in multiple colors/patterns, look how cute these all are (all at crazy good prices!)…
…just scroll and click to see the different color options and sizes.
Outside of the cute dresses, this month, I’ve been wearing comfy clothes all day like…
…this Amazon tank and my favorite shorts or…
…my Amazon jumpsuit which I LOVE!
11: WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND:
The flag is up. It’s time to remember those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
12: WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH:
We have a lot going on in June! From swim team to baseball tournaments, sleepover camp for Ashby, summer basketball, daily dips in the pool, travels..so much! I always look most forward though to when it’s just the six of us at home in our backyard. Andrew and I simply cannot get enough of this kind of family time with our favorite four.
13: FAVORITE AMAZON FIND OF THE MONTH:
These towels, y’all. Andrew and I decided to get all new pool towels for the season, and we LOVE these! They have washed and dried to perfection, they’re a great size, they come in a ton of colors. Fabulous Amazon purchase!
That wraps up What’s Up Wednesday! I’ll see you all back here on Tuesday. I was planning on taking the long weekend and spending it with my kids, but I’m going to go ahead and start that now. I’ll see you Tuesday.
Don’t forget to link up below if you blogged WUW too. Sending you so much love today and lifting up so many in prayer. xx
Lauren says
Have you published a cookbook all about grilling? If not, you should! It’s easier to have everything right there in a book sometimes!
Amy says
Hi! Try dryer sheets in your pockets to repel mosquitoes.
Avon Skin So Soft is also supposed to repel mosquitoes.
Trudi says
Oh Shay, you were the first person I thought of when I saw the news last night. I hope that finally, your politicians will actually take action to stop this happening again. My heart breaks for those poor children & their parents. My girls are now 22 & 18 & they never had to worry about this happening here in the UK, the only drill they do, is a fire drill. Give your kids an extra hug from me x
Erika Slaughter says
That pic of baby Ashby is the sweetest!
Elspeth says
Thank you for this bright spot today! Also selling sunset is the perfect binge watch! Have a great weekend!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Michelle Lykins says
Lemongrass oil for the mosquitoes. Put a dab around the ankles, wrists and neck. They hate it. It works so good for us. Good luck!
Sarina says
I use the J&J creamy aloe & Vitamin E lotion on my kids and it helps so much with mosquitoes!! Saw the hack from Daryl Ann Denner and it’s amazing.
Heather Hawkins says
So looking forward to summer! Teacher here who has 20 more days left and who is incredibly heartbroken this morning too. Praying for everyone.
Mosquitos….we swear by this bug spray. Natrapel. It comes in a dark green bottle and they even have wipes!! Good luck!
Sheaffer says
I’m pretty sure that Hell starts out the day with early morning swimming practice in freezing cold water.
Mia says
With all due respect, we need more than prayers to change the ongoing gun slaughter of Americans that happen all too frequently. We need change in political leadership so that we can finally pass some commonsense gun laws, laws that are so widely supported. This is a problem that impacts and threatens every single one of us and our children.
Karleigh Johnson says
I second this. Thoughts and prayers are NOT enough. I understand there is only so much Shay can do from a blogging perspective, but we can and should be pushing/advocating/encouraging/and discussing change. Especially if you have a platform where you know people are reading and listening.
Emmy says
I second this! With all due respect Shay, nobody wants to see a space that is all positive-it’s not relateable and it makes the rest of us feel like we are doing something wrong if our life is not rainbows and butterflies. Also-going through hard things is not negative, which you insinuate when you constantly say “i want this to be a positive space” over and over again. Life is hard and I love the bloggers who show the good and the bad. It’s relateable. To go on as if this didn’t happen is just wrong.
Mix and Match Mama says
Life is hard which is why I want to be a safe space on the internet. If you want hard, you can turn on TV. If you want joy, you can head to my site. I’m 100% happy being “rainbows and butterflies” for people. People can get negative everywhere, it’s hard to find rainbows and butterflies 😉 .
Stacey Mazurek says
I agree- please contact your elected officials and plead for gun control
Stacey Mazurek says
Thank you, prayers don’t stop bullets. Make changes at your ballot box. Look up the politicians who the NRA has funded.
Victoria says
I came to say this exact thing. America’s children need gun control more than prayers. Who you vote for matters. American people choose every day that a grown up’s feelings of freedom to hold guns is more important than 27 school shootings this year alone.
You bury those children every time you vote pro guns. They should have their pictures on the ballot paper.
Tina says
Best and favorite mosquito tip…Ouai dry oil. It smells amazing and has citronella in it…I promise it will change your life.
Liz says
Is this the hair brand? I tried to google it but couldn’t find the product. Thanks for your help!
Susan Jeffries says
Thank you for continuing to share joy and light here. We are all heavy hearted today and praying for our country. Enjoy the summer with your babies.
jennibell says
My kids got me one of those Old Navy dresses for Mother’s Day — I love it too! I’ll “second” Selling Sunset — I just finished the latest season but really couldn’t get through the reunion show. Not as interesting. Anyway, Selling the Hamptons is the same idea and very good also.
Have a GREAT long weekend — enjoy every single minute of your kiddos :). Time does fly but just so you know, every season is a sweet season. . .just different. Just 10 years ago mine were 13, 11, 10, and 8. Now one has a “real” job and pays all his own bills (and taxes — ha!), one is on a mission trip on the other side of the world, one just graduated community college and is heading to the University her brother and sister attend, and the baby just spent a week with my sister on vacation and is holding down two jobs this summer. Having adult kids is a fun thing too!!
Kristin says
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. I know many of the blogs I follow are not about news and/or politics, but it just seems like such an elephant in the room when tragedies like this aren’t addressed. I suspect that most of us are as heartbroken as you are, and it is good to know that we are part of a community who is grieving together.
Cathy says
Vitamin B12 helps me with mosquito bites.
Kristin Mattila says
This may sound very strange but the BEST mosquito repellent I have found and used for years is the Johnson and Johnson creamy baby oil. It’s in a green tube. For some reason regular baby oil does not work but this creamy version smells great and keeps the bugs away!!!!
Nicole says
Yes!!! This is the only thing I will use! I hate the grossness from bug sprays so when I found out about this, probably 10 years ago it’s all I’ve used since.
Susan says
Agreed! I was going to say the same – it’s the aloe and vitamin d version
Anne Miller says
Lots of prayers and years for Uvalde, TX. I think Mades gained the most inches this year. I always compare where your kids are in relation to a door knocker.
Lori M says
I appreciate reading your blog every day, especially on a day like today. It really is a nice break from the devastating news from yesterday. Praying so much for the families, the town of Uvalde, and our country. I too started watching Selling Sunset this week and am loving it!
Amy Heinl says
Avon Skin so soft original formula is best thing to ward off mosquitos
Kara says
Hearts are so heavy, sending our best to those families affected in TX.
We use Cedarcide (looks like made in Lewisville, TX) for biking in thick woods here in NH, VT for mosquitoes and ticks. It is deet free.
Stacey Mazurek says
My thoughts are with all those killed in Texas yesterday. Prayers are great, but that’s not enough. Time for real gun control. Start with your Governor in Texas.. and your senator. And all of the other politicians with ties to the NRA. So sad
Shayna says
Amen
Elisabeth Hogue says
Praying for the families of the victims.
Could you link your lighted makeup mirror?
Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s Riki Riki from Nordstrom.
Sarah M. says
You said the right thing, sure it’s great to be all sunshine and roses, but we live in this world where bad things happen and to pretend otherwise would be disrespectful and insensitive. Maybe if people woke up and saw what goes on beyond their immediate field of vision, we could see some changes. I am praying for all of it.
Kristine W says
Mosquitoes love me also. I have good luck with Avon Skin so Soft Original. I just spray on my hand and rub on to avoid being too oily. Looking forward to shopping Victoria Emerson site. I have several of their bracelets. So many heavy hearts over the senseless shooting. It was pure evil.
Debbie says
Prayers for comfort and prayers for solutions and action.
I do not see a rafflecopter in today’s post.
Should there be one?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s on Monday’s blog post. It’s going to be there every day this week!
Kelly McClure says
My favorite mosquito repellent is by Avon skin so soft. I get it on Amazon. It smells good, doesn’t feel like you have a spray on and works!
Ann says
It doesn’t stop you getting bitten but if you use it fairly quickly afterwards (before you scratch the bite) The Bug Bite Thing really works. https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Bite-Thing-Suction-Remover/dp/B01576DWQU/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2U7LD000WHDVK&keywords=bug+bites+thing&qid=1653488452&sprefix=Bug+bite%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-5
Liz says
Thank you, thank you Shay for writing about the utter tragedy in Uvalde. These blogs we all read and enjoy are ultimately about LIFE – and those who posted regular content today without referencing the aching hole of violence and grief that has opened up in that community seem completely divorced from what real life is. I find it callous beyond belief. I urge you and all your readers to read reputable research about why the United States experiences school shootings at a rate that is completely unheard of in the rest of the developed world – then speak out loudly to call for action.
Danielle says
In addition to prayer, we need to hold politicians accountable. Last year lawmakers passed HB1927 that makes it legal to carry a gun without a permit and they continue to shy away from safer measures that would limit the amount of firearms in unsafe hands the moment they meet resistance from the gun lobby. Texans need to demand more from their elected officials. I don’t live in Texas anymore, but I grew up in Southlake. My parents didn’t have guns, but I (of course) knew people that did. All responsible gun owners can agree that this needs to stop. Texas needs to be better. We need to do everything we can to prevent this from happening again and again and again.
https://www.texastribune.org/2022/05/24/texas-gun-laws-uvalde-mass-shootings/
Karin says
Yes! Everything about this comment is so right. It’s no longer enough to just offer our prayers to the families who no longer have babies to tuck to sleep tonight and sing silly songs with and go on bikes rides or to swim parties with. We must act. Texans should demand stricter gun laws. Have background checks. Have waiting periods. And holy moly, ban the sale of assault rifles. Sure, people will still have guns and some violence will still occur. But babies won’t be shot so badly that the only way to identify them is by DNA. It’s horrific and real action can change things.
Shayna says
Yes!
Michelle Marshall says
Can we just talk about how much Smith has grown from the first day to last day this year!? Looking at the spot on the door is crazy!! Beautiful kids!! We hug them even closer these days.
Andrea Hooper says
YES to selling Sunsets!!!!
Donna says
19 children! Thoughts and prayers are not enough. Gun laws have to change. Thank goodness this did not happen at your childrens school Shay. Parents must be terrified to send their children to school anymore. I wonder how many children have to die before something changes.
K.K. says
I want to note ALL the mosquito fixes as well. I HATE them, and they LOVE me (insert a frustrated face). Right now, I just wear bug spray, though I’m not crazy about smelling like that all summer. (not even going to talk about the chemicals, though some of the natural spray does seem to work okay)
Also, got some of those striped towels in a different color based off of your recommendation. Love them too!
Alison says
What a great list! I always love reading and following along with your blog! Thank you for being a little bit of joy for me today!
Jen says
I don’t have a great suggestion for mosquitos(going to try some of what your commenters posted), but just wanted to commiserate with you about bug bites. It’s so annoying to have to put bug spray on to even step outside. My husband and son rarely get them, but me and my daughter so bad. I can’t even take the dog to the bathroom for 2 mins without getting so many bites.
tricia says
Hi Shay!
Love the dresses and the Amazon tank! Perfect for summer!! I’m a big fan of that neckline on the earth tone Old Navy dress but I cannot seem to find a good strapless bra for underneath! Is that what you wear underneath? Can you recommend a good bra?!
PS If AVON still exists(?) and still sells, ‘Skin So Soft’ – that is great for repelling mosquitos and – it smells nice!!
Angie Pelaggi says
Thank you for mentioning the tragic shooting in your home state. I’m appalled that your friends (Erica and Andrea) stayed silent. Prayers and thoughts are nice but that’s enough anymore – change and policy is what needs to happen. You have a huge platform here, this is real life and seeing real life is what your viewers want. Thank you again for not being silent on this issue but please do more than just pray.
Monika says
Hi Shay,
How do you control mosquitos in your yard? Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
We have a service come and spray our yard monthly. We use Mosquito Joe’s here in the DFW area and it works well!
Kelli says
For mosquitos we always use bug bands! https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bugables+bug+bands&crid=3MBT3R196TBRT&sprefix=bugables+bug+bands%2Caps%2C79&ref=nb_sb_noss_2
I think we have mostly used the bugables brand- they usually have them at walmart in the camping section. Great to put on your wrist or ankle!
Faye says
I’m glad you spoke about yesterday’s tragedy. I have to agree with many of your readers. Prayer is so very, very important. But until the politician’s do something, I am so afraid that this will never end in the US. There will always be another sick person allowed to carry a gun. And that just shouldn’t be allowed to happen. Sadly, innocent people and children will continue to pay the price.
Peggy says
Thank you so much for addressing the latest school shooting. I have always felt that you had a kind heart and this just reinforces that belief. I have enormous respect and admiration for you.
K.K. says
Oh, and one more thing — If you have time, will you share more details about your Magic Candle? I looked all over the site, but didn’t see one that looked like yours. (Just seeing ones in little tins.) I’m intrigued and love the idea of the crackling sound. 🙂 Thanks, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
I buy all different scents all the time. Each one crackles as it burns. I absolutely love them!
Nat says
I have really been sad about yesterday too. I have two girls ages 5 and 10 so couldn’t imagine what those parents are going through. I am sickened by our current administration pushing their political agenda first thing and not really talking about the tragedy itself though. A criminal can and will always find a way to get a gun no matter if they ban guns etc. Shay you are absolutely right -prayer is the best though as the 18yo obviously needed Jesus! Lifting these precious families up in prayer and that Jesus would wrap His arms around them and give them peace.
Tish says
Shay, thank you for your words and prayers. My husband’s cousin lost his niece in the Uvalde school shooting yesterday. She was 10 years old. So many prayers needed for her parents, siblings, and family. Our hearts are broken for everyone in that community.
On a different note, have you shared your summer schedule balancing work and kids at home? We officially start summer tomorrow so I need to make a plan! Working from home is a blessing but can be HARD when all the kids are here too! If so, can you share the link to the post? Or maybe give me a quick timeline how you make it all work? 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my word, I cannot even imagine, Tish. I am so sorry. I am just so so sorry for your family.
Jan says
Shay I would like your opinion. I know you love the Apple watch and the Kindle. You always upgrade to the newest Apple watch yet you do not always upgrade your Kindle. What keeps you from upgrading the Kindle? (I am always upgrading my Kindle. Right now I am thinking about getting the newest signature Paperwhite but not sure I should…)
My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the Texas school tragedy. What a nightmare for them all and what a travesty for our country. I am not sure what the answer is to stop these horrific events, but I do not think doing the same thing over and over (which is nothing) is the way to go.
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s a good question, Jan! I guess my Kindle still works just fine (I can read all of my books!). I haven’t thought of upgrading it. The watch has newer features each time that entice me, but the Kindle is just the same ole same ole.
Jan says
Thanks for your reply!
Joanne says
If you ever find anything that does work for mosquitoes I’d love to know; they eat me alive regardless of all the off deep woods or whatever I use.
Kacy M says
I freaking love Old Navy!! I shop there for everything – as a petite girl who wears basics or athleisure all the time, they have it all. Plus they’ve got deals going on all the time. I got a lightweight cami strap midi dress for summer that I can just throw on easily and be cute/comfy in this TX heat.
Jessica says
What a heartbreaking time….and disgusting that we keep having these preventable heartbreaking time. Absolutely prayers and continued prayers for families, teachers, lawmakers, politicians and first responders….but we also need action! I appreciate that your intention is to be a bright space on the internet and absolutely we need an outlet for that….but enough is enough- now is not a time for thought it is a time for loud action! I live in canada and my heart breaks for your state and many other states! I would love to see resources shared so all of us can make some noise and change so we don’t have to say these prayers for more families.
Rebecca Carney says
Praying along for those dear angels, their families, the community, and our country! We are all mourning this terrible tragedy. Heartbroken teacher.
I think your 1st grader had the biggest growth spurt this year! Babies don’t keep! I remember starting your blog with Kensington starting Kindergarten!! Hope those kids have a fun & memorable summer!! Hope Ashby loves swim team!!
Leslie S says
Can you give a glimpse of Ks summer wardrobe? Doing shopping now and would love ideas (especially tops and dresses!)
Candice says
Hey Shay! I was taking a look at your nantucket post and had a quick question! My husband and I wanted to take a quick two day trip to either Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. (We haven’t been to either) Which location would you suggest for a quick trip for first timers? Thank you!! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, my heart belongs to Nantucket, so I’ll always vote that first 🙂 .