5 Things I Love Friday

TGIF everyone! How are we doing? I mentioned last week that Oahu’s restrictions lifted and we were able to get in some beach time last weekend, which was SO refreshing, so we’ve got plans on the docket for more of that this weekend. I make no apologies for today’s round up – this will be the one in which I discuss things like bras and foster care (no correlation, just my brain) and everything in between, so buckle up and let’s dive in. 

5 Things I Love Friday

The Dysfunction of Food – I’m working on a piece surround foster care, so it was really important for me to dig a little deeper and I came across Kim’s piece. It won the 2020 James Beard Award and it’s blatantly obvious why. As a writer, I’m a critical reader (it’s the nature of who I am), so when I read something that stirs up some kind of emotion inside me (I felt a range in this one), it gives me pause. When an essay brings real tears to my eyes (not the kind where to text your friend and said “OMG THIS MADE ME CRY!” but really you’re just sitting there), I bookmark it for later. And when I get to the end and just want to say “But…wait..I need more,”…it’s a really good sign I’m gonna blog and share and yell from the rooftops about it. Which is, I guess, why I’m here. In any case, whether you’re interested in foster care or not, Kim’s piece is brilliant and worth the ten minute read. She’s a remarkable human being and terrific writer. 

VOTE T-shirt – If you’ve been around here for awhile, you know that I’m a PA-native and Hawaii transplant. When I saw VOTE t-shirts inspired by the iconic Philadelphia LOVE statue, I had to snag them. It’s so important to get out there and vote. Elections are decided by the folks who get out there and rock it at the polls, right? Not voting silences your voice + we all deserve to be heard!

Barbie Pink Nail Polish – I have been on the hunt for nail polish that is bright and bold, but not thin. Try finding neon nail polish that doesn’t require 40 coats…I’ll wait. It’s next to impossible. Living in Hawaii affords me the opportunity to wear bright colors year round, so when I stumbled upon this brand at Target, I was in love. It gets really bad reviews and I can’t, for the life of me, figure out why. I love it, it goes on smooth, the color is vibrant (matches the bottle) after two coats, doesn’t bubble, and dries in normal time. Plus, it’s $3.99!

Max Snaps Photography – We had a socially distanced photo shoot this week for some updated family photos. I have so many talented photographer friends and Maxine is no exception! This was our preview (swoon!) and I’m so excited to see more. Oahu friends, she’s got openings this fall if you are interested!

Pāpale Hat – Ever since we moved to Oahu, I have wanted a coconut frond woven hat, with the top open so I could still wear my hair up and off my neck. I finally got my act together and ordered one and was glad to support a local business and maker! 

If you’re a guy, I’m sorry, but the next two won’t apply…

Cropped V-Neck Bra Tank – I splurged on this right before Oahu shut down this spring after looking at it forever. I got it in white since I figured I could wear it underneath some of my cropped workout shirts or even underneath some of my loose linen v-neck shirts. Turns out, I wear it to workout, with regular clothes, to bed, to clean the house, to walk the dogs…and the list goes on. I freaking love this top and I’m adding another to my Christmas list.

Racerback Bralette – My friend Max told me about these bras and she said “Run, do not walk to get this!” I have purchased Auden bralettes before and it’s one of my very favorite bras, so I didn’t hesitate to check it out on a following trip to Target. She was right. These are oh-so-soft and great for us ladies in the IBTC (that’s Itty Bitty Titty Committee) at a super affordable price. They’re superb for sleeping…and working from home 😉 

How is your week? What are you looking forward to this weekend?