And that’s a wrap on June!
I know I say this all the time, but geez, these months keeping flying by SO QUICKLY! One of my very favorite quotes is this one here…
…I think about this one often.
Okay, well, you know the drill, 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.
Here we go…
Lots of fish! We had our Super Simple Grilled Fish Tacos again last night! We also have been making recipes with super fresh lobster, scallops and crab. We’ve enjoyed finding new (to us) fish markets here on the island. More recipes to come here in blog world as we experiment, make and enjoy!
We’ve also been trying more “new to us” restaurants around town.
Clearly…
…The Chanticleer isn’t new, but it’s one spot we had never made it to during previous trips. You guys, this has been my favorite meal so far!
The food, the service, the atmosphere, all of it was fabulous!
My company was fabulous too 😉 .
Well, we just had the BEST time here with my family! I keep thinking back to all of the fun/sweet/special things we did as a group of 15. One of my favorite things about this trip was…
…how much these two bonded! Mia is 3 and Mades is 8, and for some reason, this trip made them “click” more than normal. I feel like typically when they’re together, Madeley is “caring for” her little cousin, but this time, they were playmates.
It was SO PRECIOUS! If you missed my blog post on Sunday when I recapped the entire time together, check it out HERE.
Our sweet little neighborhood! We have a community center in our neighborhood that includes tennis courts and a pool. On Monday night, they had the pool heated, an ice cream truck and showed Frozen 2 poolside. My littles made so many new friends and had THE BEST time! It was a great opportunity for Andrew and I to meet new people too.
All the fun things…
Andrew and I decided that anytime we can, we stop what we are doing and play. We’ve been working in swimsuits and popping over to the beach for an hour or so during the day and then popping home. These little outings as a family of six have been SO SPECIAL!
Beach time is our favorite time! We leave the car packed with our gear and a snack bag fully stocked for all of these impromptu trips to the beach.
On Friday…
…we had a special morning. I took the two littles into town for art class and then…
…another trip to the library followed by…
…meeting up with Kensington at Nantaco for lunch. It was the perfect way to kick off a Friday!
Over the last 16 years, I’ve covered a lot of topics here in blog world. A lot of topics. Today, I have a new one for you…fingernail infections.
Sigh.
You guys, you know how I love to “dip” my fingernails. Outside of quarantine in 2020, I’ve had mine dipped for the better part of four years. I called and found a nail place here to remove my old dip and apply fresh new dip and well, it went terribly wrong from the word go. I now have a very yucky and infected finger and bare nails. I’m going to keep my nails bare until I return to McKinney, but the infection got so yucky that I did a telehealth appointment with my doctor yesterday. They put me on medicine to clear it up but dang. I’m currently dreading every stroke of the keypad as I type this because one finger hurts. Anyone else have a nail salon experience go wrong? This is my first one, but I know they’re super common. Sigh.
All the vacations…
…the sweet clients…
…amazing accommodations…
…and unbelievable destinations just make me so happy. We would love to work with you on your next vacation too! Contact us today for more information!
I really, really, really love celebrating July 4th! Outside of Christmas, Halloween and Thanksgiving, July 4th is my favorite holiday. I am very excited about our weekend!
Make sure you come back tomorrow for my JUNE BOOK REVIEW!
If you happened to have missed…
…my MAY BOOK REVIEW, make sure you go back and read it HERE!
The comment section is just the best resource for books on the internet 🙂 .
Right this very minute, my little girls are watching Big City Greens which I don’t love. I really wish they’d turn it off.
It’s a whole big random assortment of things…
…I’m loving THESE JEANS. This brand is my new favorite. The quality and fit is really amazing! I paired it with THIS BLACK TANK for a very easy dinner outfit.
A NAVY AND WHITE STRIPED TOP? Yes, please!
I’ve been wearing THIS DRESS on repeat! The color and the cut make me happy!
Annnnnnd you know I love THIS TENNIS SKIRT 🙂 .
…I love that it only has pleats in the back, I love the built-in shorts and I LOVE ALL THE COLORS!
You guys, it’s about to be JULY, and I have a very good feeling that this weekend is going to be EXTRA FUN!! I’m so excited about this next month 🙂 . Speaking of which…
All the Nantucket things 🙂 !
Without a doubt, it would have to be these blinds! We love them so much, they were so easy to install and they really block out all the light. They were a GREAT Amazon find!
That wraps up this month’s What’s Up Wednesday! If you blogged along with us today, please make sure you link up below.
I’ll be back here tomorrow with our JUNE BOOK REVIEW! In the meantime, have a wonderful week! xx
Laura Dille says
You and Erika and your poor nail sagas!!!
Jessica Woodard says
It’s the powder not the salon. Dipping is very unsanitary, as you are essentially sharing powder with anyone who has also dipped in said powder. If they had an open wound, cut or infection, you can get it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I didn’t even get to the “dip” part here. My damage occurred in the removal of the previous dip. When I go to my salon in McKinney, they always pour the dip in a new container for my nails so that there isn’t cross contamination. They have these tiny little clear containers they use.
Nikki says
I live in MA and have traveled to your area in Texas and I can say without a doubt that the nail salons there are so much better. It’s incredibly hard finding good salons here. Maybe if you’re off island, go somewhere closer to Boston but be sure to get a recommendation first from a trusted friend.
Elspeth Mizner says
I’m on the hunt for some new books! Can’t wait for tomorrow’s book review!
http://www.Elspethsdaybyday.com
Rebecca says
So fun to see all of your adventures! Been a reader for years and years and am excited to see how you celebrate the 4th in Nantucket! 🙂 Thank you for the smile and encouragement you always bring to this space – you have truly touched lives, including mine!
Katie Compton says
So excited for book day tomorrow!! I’m a teacher so summer reading is my FAVORITE! I read a few of the recommendations from last month and I’ve got some good ones to share as well. I’m feeling all like Christmas Eve over here, ha! Happy “I’m not really sure what day it is”, Shay! #teacheroffduty
Erin says
I used to do dip allll the time for years too but man did it damage my nails! Not to mention the cost increase. I moved on to a small business called Polish Pops and have never looked back! Their products are great.
Jennifer Sickle says
Are Andrew’s parents/family coming to visit you in Nantucket?
Mix and Match Mama says
They are 😉 !
Elizabeth says
Second you on Big City Greens! Bleh! My kids don’t watch it too much, but I always try to steer them away! 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s just annoying, right?! I typically steer them away from it too because I really do not see the value in that one.
Maria says
I respectfully disagree. I met the cast at Comic Con (Boy mom here!) and they were just lovely. We attended their panel where they performed a table read which I thoroughly enjoyed. I have a new appreciation for animation and voice actors. If you pay attention to the story, they are really funny. I love the whole country folk living in the big city plot.
Jennifer says
Love reading all your posts!! I bet you are so thankful to be somewhere other than Texas this summer! I think this is the hottest summer ever!! 😜
Mix and Match Mama says
Andrew and I still listen to the same sports radio station every morning via their app and keep hearing them talk about it. Geez, it sounds crazy hot!
Kristen says
Are you close enough to town where you walk to dinner or drive.. Wondering how you walk in your high heels or wedges when dressed up? Love all the ACK content!!! Can’t wait for book review!
Mix and Match Mama says
If you see me wearing wedges in a pic, we drove into town. If I’m wearing flat sandals, we biked/walked/scootered our way in. Thank you for the enthusiasm! xx
Kelly H says
Hi! I’ve been doing dip or gel for the last 7 years and also had an infection. I woke up one morning to my thumb throbbing! I soaked the dip off and it was obvious it was infected. It wasn’t from the nail shop though, it was from water being trapped after I bumped my nail. Anyway a prescription and a couple of months with no dip/gel, I was good as new.
Anne says
Oh man, I’m so sorry about the infection:( sadly, I know all too well:( had to go on an oral medication, and still waiting for the old nail to grow out. It’s been such a saga, that I’m pretty sure I’m done with polish. Bare nails are where it’s at;) I really hope yours gets better quickly!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Was yours from a product they used on you or from “trauma” to the area? I’m really hoping mine clears up without damaging the whole nail.
Denise M. says
Madeley’s pose in the beach pic made me laugh out loud! She’s absolutely adorable:)
Mix and Match Mama says
I hope she mentions me one day in her Oscar winning speech 🙂 .
Cindy Adkison says
In March 2020, I got a fungus from a nail salon on my thumb nail. The fungus turned into a bacterial infection and ended up spreading to my bone, up my thumb. I’ve had more x-rays, antibiotics, and MRIs than I can count. I had surgery to try to clear out the infection and remove my nail. Following that, I had daily IV infusions for weeks. Fast forward three years later and I’m still dealing with it. I see an infectious disease doctor regularly. They just can’t find out what to do to make it go away for good. I sure hope your story ends differently. A simple manicure turned into a long, painful mess.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my gosh! That is terrible! I mean, that is just awful, Cindy.
Traci says
My Mother had a similar situation maybe 10 years ago. She got a fungal infection from the salon and it took almost a year to fully clear up, with many doctor visits and medications. I’m sorry you are going through this.
Peggy says
I lost the nail on a big toe many years ago. The dermatologist was none too keen about nail salons. I rarely go anymore.
Lynn says
I worked with a lady who got staph after a manicure. She had to travel daily to receive shots over a period of weeks and it cost thousands of dollars. Needless to say, I haven’t had a manicure since. I know some places are more sanitary than others, but still… I have also given up on trying to find polish that stays on my nails more than a few days without chipping. kI’ve pretty much tried them all over the last 2 years. I’m considering the home gel kits, but have heard of the toxic ingredients. Geez…I want pretty nails again so if anyone has advice that would be great! 🙂
Heather says
Try Olive & June. It stays on longer than others.
Kit says
Agree!!! O&J is a total game changer!
Julia says
I second Olive and June!
LYNN says
Thanks for the suggestion. I’m excited to try it.
Leticia says
I second Olive & June. No polish is immune to water though, so I wear gloves when doing dishes or watering plants. I like switching colors often so regular nail polish works for me 🙂
Ramona Puckett says
Love seeing all your family pictures, so sweet! Looking forward to tomorrow’s book review oh and I hope your nail heals quickly ❤️
Katie Stewart says
Big City Greens… my eight-year-old’s current favorite. I’m just so excited to see what the Fourth of July looks like on Nantucket!!! Cannot wait for that post! 😅
Dianna says
Your Big City Greens comment made me LOL. My son watches it too. At that start I was not the biggest fan but I am learning to embrace it. That theme song is in my head on repeat!
Ashley Keeney says
Hateeeee Big City Greens
Mix and Match Mama says
Riiiiiiight?
Daphne says
You are both so right! BIG NO THANKS!
Jacquelyn Jenkins says
Ugh, Big City Greens … those voices!! And of course, that’s my kiddos favorite cartoon. Why Disney??
SS says
Is it an instinct to put oranges and apple slices like that?? Lol. We all did it.
What is one thing you must have when going to Alaska?? My sister’s family is headed there soon! Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
To bring with them? Layers! Ha! The weather is GORGEOUS, but wear layers. I hope they eat a lot of salmon. I’ve never had better salmon than in Alaska.
Kiko says
Sounds fun. Can you share how you do logistics for the more frequent datenights on Nantucket? You leave the older children in charge of the younger girls? You make or order dinner before you leave? They have instructions not to leave the property? are the rules different since you’re in an unfamiliar area?
Mix and Match Mama says
The older kiddos watch the younger ones. We always leave them with dinner (we let them pick to make it more fun for their own “parents-free” night). Sometimes they pick pizza or tacos and sushi is a big hit over here!
Melanie M says
In that last family pic, Kensington looks like a ventriloquist with her dog puppet, LOL.
Mix and Match Mama says
I just went to look and now, I’m lol!
Kerry says
Can you share a link for your watch band? I love it!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES! I love it! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B4MZBBBV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Sharon says
So sorry to hear about your finger! That got me thinking — does your fam have medical emergency plans in place since access to specialists might be more challenging on the island? In particular for Ashby since she is so far away from her medical team? Sorry if this is too personal — if it is, no need to post!
Mix and Match Mama says
We do! Great question!
Courtney B says
Hi Shay!
Sorry about your finger!! Coming at you with a random question— As someone has never been to Nantucket (except via the TV show Wings ;), I am curious how separated the different parts of the island are from each other. For example, when you say we took our car to the beach— is it too far from your home to walk/ride or was it because you’re bringing lots of stuff? Or when you mention going from one side of the island to the other— what is that in driving time, distance, or biking time? Does this question make sense? 😂
Happy 4th of July to your family and God Bless America!
Mix and Match Mama says
I really need to put a map up when I’m discussing things. The island isn’t very big (about 15 miles long and then 3 to 6 miles across depending on where you are ‘crossing’). To get to the beach, we drive because the closest beach is about a mile away and then some of the beaches we love are seven-ish miles away. (We live ‘mid island’.). If you have a beach permit (which you apply for in the winter), you can actually drive on to several of the beaches (which we find super convenient). We just open our car doors and bam, we’re right in the sand by the ocean. We can walk/bike/scooter into ‘town’ easily and prefer that often to finding a parking spot. I should make this an entire post 😉 !
Courtney B says
Thanks for taking the time to respond and elaborate! I would love a post on this topic!
Erika Opperman says
Hey Shay!
I absolutely love your outfit with the navy stripes! And those gold hoops are perfect for everyday. Do you happen to have a link for those?
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re a really great size! https://www.nordstrom.com/s/madewell-chunky-medium-hoop-earrings/6568905?origin=category-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FWomen%2FJewelry%2FEarrings%2FHoop%20Earrings&color=710
Bethany says
I know it’s not 100% the same, but Essie Gel Couture polish is a two-step polish. One is color and the other is like a clear gel top coat. You can buy it anywhere. I feel like it’s a little thicker than regular but not as expensive as the salon!
Joanne says
Nantucket does look wonderful! They have so many amazing places to eat and “discover.”
Alicia K says
Curious how your kids are adjusting to life on Nantucket, especially the older two. I found that as my kids get older their time with their friends is super important to them. We still have good times together as a family but, they “need” their peers and their independence (and to be honest, we are all much happier when everyone has their outlet)! we have found allowing them to bring a friend a long keeps everyone happier. It is hard for me to relax with grumpy teens around!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think they’re doing well! I mean, it’s not perfect and I’m sure they would love it if they had all of their friends here with them, but at the same time, their friends are all busy this summer too (select sports, church camps, family vacations, etc), so it’s not like everyone is hanging out at home without them. My kids also know this is basically an extended vacation. We start school really early, so they’re almost back to “normal”. I do think what’s been so helpful is that my kids wanted to come for all of the outdoor things they don’t get to do at home.
Sheaffer says
Those fish tacos look amazing!!! And I’m going to need you to tell me more about those oysters!
Liz Thorson says
Todays post just made my heart sing for you, Shay! What a memorable summer you are experiencing as a family! The beach time, wonderful shops and restaurants and food to explore and enjoy, your littles having small town experiences with art classes, library visits and meeting new friends at your neighborhood pool, the walk/ride/scoot capability…pure delight and bliss!
Martha Patricof says
Hi Shay, Thank you for being a bright spot in your readers’ lives every day. You are a blessing! You are so resourceful I’m guessing you already know this. Just in case, though, there is a great day camp on island called Strong Wings. You can book by the week. Here is the website: https://strongwings.org/. My nephew is a former camper and now CIT. I think it might be a good fit for your kids. Enjoy Nantucket!
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwww! Martha! Thanks YOU so much!! You are a bright spot to me too! xx
Kara says
I am so excited to read all of these posts b/c my husband and I are coming to visit Nantucket for the first time to celebrate our 40th birthdays! We will be there in Sept, where do you think the best lobster roll is!? Also, only 1 dinner-where would you pick? thanks!! 🙂
Kasi says
Dipping your nails at home is really not too difficult,, There is a slight learning curve but try it a few times when you are ready again with some online tutorials and you should be fine especially since I think you like yours short which makes it even easier. I haven’t been back in a nail salon since before covid. I have saved thousands and I don’t have to worry about what germs might be lurking! I have a daughter who is kensingtons age and I am teaching her as well! We are DIY over here all the way!!
Kym says
Time really is flying by – I know this because it’s taken me a week to get caught up on comments! loved all your photos – looks like a fab time at the beach!
James Fuller says
I do agree with you.