1. A Good (Audio)Book
I am a huge fan of audiobooks to relax and "read" for pleasure because I read so much already for work. I'm pretty critical of audiobook narrators because a terrible narration can ruin a wonderful book. These are books that I've heard are a great read but know from personal experience are a great listen!
Probably one of my favorite books of all times. Trevor Noah narrates his personal stories prior to his successful career in comedy and television. He is so talented with mimicking multiple accents and speaking so many languages. His stories are hilarious, heart-breaking and thoughtful all at the same time.
It will make you laugh, it will make you cry. The feel-good plot and characters make it an easy read...or listen. Also, I really enjoyed the narration. If you are craving more when you finish, don't worry and just read the following two books in the series or watch the movie!
Dare I say it? I liked it better than the HBO show...and I really liked the show. What's not to like? Reese and Nicole on the same screen. BUT, I loved the audiobook version with the Australian accents and a setting outside of the USA. In general, the plot is entertaining. Perfect summer read.
No matter where your opinions sit on the political spectrum, you should explore this book. The narration by Michelle Obama on the audiobook is wonderful. There are so many beautifully written and relatable vignettes that tie her story together.
2. A Refreshing Drink
I fell right into the marketing traps of La Croix when they gave me a free tote bag and baseball cap a few years back...and I've been drinking sparkling waters ever since.
Find your favorite one! My favorites are...
- La Croix's Pamplemousse and Mango
- Spindrift's Grapefruit and Mango-Orange
- Bubly's Watermelon
For someone looking for little more kick, try the spiked sparkling waters and hard seltzers. My favorites are...
- White Claw's Black Cherry
- Bon & Viv's Black Cherry Rosemary
3. A Versatile Cooler
I realize that there are a SO MANY coolers out there for the beach or pool. I like this one because it is great for both fun summer days at the beach and lunch at work. It is perfect size for 5-6 cans of your favorite soda, seltzer or beer. It keeps things cool but maybe not as cool as other larger, heavier intense coolers. It is machine-washable, which is amazing. Also, when you've finished all your snacks and drinks, it rolls up and can be stuffed in a bag without taking up too much space.
4. Your Favorite Sunscreen
The importance of sunscreen has been ingrained in me. When your mother is a dermatologist, you see the good, the bad and the ugly of sun exposure. Both the young and the old experience the life-threatening and life-changing outcomes of skin cancer. Outside the dangers of skin cancer, the harsh UV rays damage your complexion and promote the aging process of your beautiful skin. If you need a tan, try spray tan (not tanning beds) instead. Enjoy your life and enjoy sunscreen's health and beauty benefits!
Best for Face:
($31 on Amazon)
($40 on Amazon)
I love both of these sunscreens! They both have regular AND tinted versions. For face, neck and chest, I like to use "physical" sunscreens such as mineral titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect from sun damage. In general, these minerals can cause the sunscreen to be heavier and thicker, which makes it little more difficult to apply. However, these sunscreens are some of the best that I've tried. EltaMD's regular version seems to do a slightly better job of not leaving a white residue and seems a little lighter. Both tinted versions avoid the white residue of most mineral sunscreens. They are great for wearing with or without makeup.
Best for Body:
($9 at Target, Pack of 3 for $25 on Amazon)
($9 on Amazon)
Neutrogena products are great. The mist spray is my favorite spray-on sunscreen because it is clear, light and less sticky than many products. It is easy to re-apply. The newer versions have the "full reach design" which allows you to more easily spray the hard-to-reach places. The sunscreen lotion is really nice as well. It can be used for body and face due to the light and less greasy consistency. Both are chemical blockers which work well for sports and beach/pool due to water-resistance (not waterproof!). The higher SPF, the better!
Best for On-the-Go Lifestyle:
(1 oz for $12 or 3.4 oz for $28 on Amazon)
Small and expensive, I know...but hear me out! This chemical blocking mist is light and clear with no residue that can be used as a setting spray after applying makeup in the morning or just as extra protection anytime during the day. I wear a BB cream with SPF 25 or moisturizer with SPF 30 every day but that's not ideal for a full day in the sun. I am notorious for running out the door for the day. Having the travel size mist in my purse has helped me to avoid getting stuck without higher SPF to apply throughout the day...and no need to touch-up my makeup.
5. A Cute Hat with SPF
A cute hat for hiking, playing tennis and sitting by pool is key in the summer. If you are going to buy a hat anyway, it seems silly not to buy one with SPF...just another way to protect your beautiful skin from harsh UV rays. There are so many on the market now but these are two of my favorites.
6. Your Favorite Pair of Sunglasses
($143 on Amazon, $143 at Sunglass Hut)
I am in love with these sunglasses. The shape is flattering on so many face shapes (...they have been stolen off my face quite a few times by friends). The color is classic and chic. The material is great because you can adjust them to fit perfectly.
Happy Summer!
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