What’s Poppin’
Posted: 07/28/2017
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Hi everyone! This week flew by and dragged on at the same time. Is that possible? The first half went slow and the second half sped by. We got home from vacation and I did my first 4 loads of laundry (I did 8 or 9 total after vacation!) and had my groceries delivered (hallelujah for that!) and then showered and headed off to the Ionia Free Fair. Ben is the high school principal in that community so we love attending all the local events and seeing students and families. After that, we went out for dinner (hallelujah for that, too!).
Sunday we were off to church and I had a couple recipes to develop. Okay, truthfully, I only got one done. The weekend disappeared!
Monday we had spur-of-the-moment dinner guests, some friends from New York. It’s a guy that Ben has been friends with for ages and I just love his wife. This was the first time we’d actually gotten to really chat (I’ve only met her at their wedding), but she’s the just the sweetest and we get along great. It was such a fun night catching up with them!
So Monday was a bit crazy getting the house cleaned up and finishing my laundry but I managed to throw together a decent summer dinner, too. We ate outside, which was absolutely wonderful. Ben grilled chicken that I had marinated in Greek Style Chicken Marinade and I made a fresh corn, avocado, and black bean salad (that post and photos are embarrassingly old), grilled garlic cheese bread, fresh green beans, and homemade peach blueberry crisp. I could repeat that meal every day!
New on the blog this week: This Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad which I actually ate for breakfast once and this easy to make grilled pizza quesadilla. Both summer staples, if you ask me.
For my home: We have an upcoming basement remodel and I want to accent with blue — I love this rug! (And it’s on sale!)
I don’t need this: But I want it. How cute would this tray be for summer entertaining or decorating around the house?
Looking to meal plan this week? Here are some things I hope to make (or remake!) this week:
- Easy Sloppy Joes
- Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Beans
- Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad
- Oreo Popcorn
- Healthy Mint Sangria
Purchased: This bag – I didn’t have a cross-body purse and I definitely wanted one for all the walking we’ll be doing in NYC (read on). I didn’t want it to break the banks since I’ll be spending all our money on food in NYC. It arrived and it’s just as cute in person!
Comment that’s making my heart happy: I adore hearing when you make my recipes and take the time to come back and leave a comment – it means the world to me! This week, Liz made my Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing with Cumin and said, “Made this tonight! I was looking for a recipe without cilantro because I don’t have any right now. This is delicious!” I hope all you cilantro-haters are listening, this one is for you!
Smiling about: This cute mug.
Need to get before the end of summer: These sandals.
Next weekend Ben and I are going to NYC to celebrate my birthday! It’s our first time ever visiting NYC (OH MY GOSH!!!!) and our first time away from the kids (together) for more than one night. I can’t wait! And I need all your NYC suggestions! I have a pretty packed itinerary already, but there’s always room for more, right?
On that note, I’m looking for a cute pair of walking shoes for NYC. I’m looking at these, these, these or these. Thoughts? I’m such a dunce when it comes to fashion.
Chicook13 says
I always get blisters when I walk even a little bit in Chucks. They’re so cute but I never find them to be comfortable for walking. Have a great trip!
Rachel Gurk says
Oh no, really? Haha that’s what I ended up ordering. But I’m sure I’ll bring plenty of shoe options…chronic overpacker. ;)
denise says
the Gazelles will probably give you the best foot support if you’re walking a lot
Rachel Gurk says
You’re probably right!
Kimberlee says
Just returned on Tuesday from a long weekend in NYC! You’ll love it, We had great meals at Mercato (W. 39th & 9th http://mercatonyc.com/) and Casa Nonna (W 38th & 8th https://casanonna.com/). Also, don’t miss the Burger Joint hidden in the lobby of the Parker Meridan Hotel on W 56th.
Free Tours by Foot – great walking tours – you pay what you feel is fair for the tour. You do need reservations though. We did the Greenwich Highline tour. Our guide was fantastic! http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/
Be prepared to walk and bring an umbrellas. Use the subway. See a show – or two or four. We saky Boots, Natasha & Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, Dear Evan Hansen (our daughters), The Play That Goes Wrong (my husban & I). Enjoy!
Rachel Gurk says
What great tips! Adding an umbrella to my list. :) Planning to walk a ton! We’re seeing A Bronx Tale! Ahhhh I’m so excited! I wish we had time for more!