Friday Favorites 8.19.16

“This weekend Dan and I are going to Chicago! We are going as an early birthday celebration while the weather is still nice and before we get busy. Even though I grew up in the Midwest, I’ve spent a pretty small amount of time in Chicago. The bean? Haven’t even seen it. I’m super excited to have a relaxing weekend away filled with good food and (hopefully) good weather. 

This week I spent some time in the kitchen trying out some new recipes. I’ve been feeling a litttttle uninspired when it comes to managing our own meals on top of recipes that I develop for the blog. If Dan had to eat 3 mediocre versions of the same meal and 1 good version all in the same week he would probably strangle me. I still haven’t unpacked all my stuff yet – oops. Maybe over Labor Day.”

Just kidding, guys. Dan texted me yesterday morning and said, “My favorite band Wilco is playing a concert in NE. But it’s this Saturday.” I immediately felt bad because this weekend was supposed to be for Dan’s birthday. So, in about 15 minutes our plans changed from flying to Chicago this weekend to going to Wilco on Saturday (by NE we mean the Minneapolis neighborhood we live in, not Nebraska). Thank you, Southwest Airlines for zero change fees and magically having your flight sale until Thursday. Is it even possible that I could have an airline win two weeks in a row? Okay, don’t push it Dana.

So, this weekend we are NOT going to Chicago but instead we are staying in the cities and going to the Wilco concert on Saturday evening. Hopefully it doesn’t rain too much so I can take my newly built up cross bike out for some single track action. I’m also excited for some quality test kitchen time that may or not mean rhubarb ice cream on the blog next week… no promises though.

this week’s favorites: 

I know I usually post recipes and random articles about home design on Friday favorites, but I also have a serious outdoor gear addiction. I’m loving this article on the best new gear under $50 from Outdoor Magazine.

I’ve been eyeing up these odor control t-shirts from Patagonia after I read a hilarious article about this guy who wore one for 10 days. Sadly, I can’t find the article anymore.

I also got tipsy on Monday night and went online shopping on Amazon.. mistake? I think not. Here are three things that I bought that are AH-MAZING. I also perfected my recipe for coconut chocolate chunk cookies that evening so no judgement – okay?

Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking – need I really say more? If you’re not obsessed, then you should be.

This super awesome knife block that has bristles instead of slots for knives. I have never experienced a more underrated kitchen appliance. It’s like I’m actually an adult. Go me.

Last but not least, I impulse bought these beautiful Weck jars. Oh Weck, how I love you. I had the box open for all of an hour before I knocked one over and broke the kid. Eye roll emoji. Okay, done with the tipsy Amazon Prime shopping now.

Um, hello adorable romper. You might just be worth taking a shot on ordering a romper online.

16 best places to live in the United States? Read about them in this article.

These flats are perfect for work, should I be concerned that they are only $12??

Browsing through these simple ways to make your kitchen cozier. We probably could use a better rug…

 

That’s all for this week, have a great weekend!