Nine Favorite Things.

Nine Favorite Things.

Today is the day! Well, technically tomorrow. Everything starts super, super early in the morning with a 6 am flight out of Denver. I have no issues with an early morning flight, but I live two hours from the Denver airport, so let’s just say it’s a pretty darn early wake up call tomorrow. Should be fun.

So…where am I headed to this week? This is going to be super annoying, but I’m keeping it a secret until I arrive. I don’t know why, but I’m loving the idea of surprising you guys with photos very, very soon. I’ll post to Instagram when I arrive and I’m 98% sure you’ll immediately be able to guess my location. I figured I’d tried something new and fun and keep you guys guessing for a second…don’t hate me!

Some of you already guessed where my adventure is to last week. So, if you read through the comments, you might be able to figure it out. Here’s another little hint, I packed only shorts, tanks, and swim suits for Mexico, but for this trip? Total opposite. I’m bringing a down coat, a hat, and rain boats. Also…I’m nervous. I kind of LOVE sunny skies and warm weather, should be interesting. But above everything else, this is a trip that not many people get to take, so I’m excited no matter what!

Bottom line here? Keep your eyes peeled on Instagram this week! And then I’ll share all the photos and details in next Sunday’s post.

Anyway, since I was in Mexico last week, I really spent this week frantically working to get things done before taking off again. It’s been back-to-back long days in the kitchen, but all worth it in the end.

Let’s see, what else is happening?

Oh! I have a really fun question. We’re working on HBH product development. I’m really interested to hear what you guys would love to see from me product wise? What excites you most when you think of an HBH product line?

In other exciting news, we’re kind of, sort of, starting the process of looking into getting that second home out in California. It’s exciting, but a little nerve racking at a the same time. Obviously a new house is a big commitment, but I do think it’s what I need personally. The late winter and spring months here in Colorado get really hard for me. It’s cold and snowy and I just need more warmth and sunshine, you know what I mean?

Originally we were thinking Palm Springs (which I’ve never even been to), but lately I’ve shifted my thinking. Even though I hesitated at first, a space in LA really makes the most sense. We have a handful of big projects coming up that are based in LA. My brother and sister-in-law would be super close. And well, you really can’t beat the weather. We’ll see, we’re only just beginning to explore the idea. Could take years to finally do…we’ll see. But it’s certainly fun looking into it all and dreaming a bit…I’m great at dreaming. I love putting things together in my head. New adventures keep life exciting!

Coming up this week on HBH, I think we’ll start the week off with a new summer seafood recipe. It’s simple and delicious, so I feel like you’ll all love it. Tuesday is my favorite recipe of the week, a real childhood favorite of mine, but made at home. Then moving onto an Italian dinner that uses all the summer tomatoes and herbs. Then a quick chicken dish that my brother Trevor is obsessed with. And lastly, a fresh summer dessert to round the week out.

1. Things i’m loving, wanting, and excited to try…

baking…with edible flowers, as always. I’m excited to share a discount code for you guys from Gourmet Sweet Botanicals. Receive 10% off all orders from now through august 18th using the code HBHFriends. Some of my personal favorites are the dahlias and violas.

loving, but pricy…this Staud Mini Shirley Crochet Edge Croc Embossed Leather Satchel (so cute for summer). this Staud Mesh Stripe Maxi Dress (this would be perfect for a wedding or fancy date night). and then this Ulla Johnson lucia crocheted wool crop top (cute with linen pants, shorts or jeans).

loving and affordable…these Alo airbrush leggings in lavender dusk, this Free People racer back tank, and this Frankies Bikini terry bikini top and bottom, plus skirt and sweater too. And then from Sara, this cut cutout dress and trousers.

loving…Model Taylor Hill’s Rustic Nashville Retreat. So cute and cozy. I love everything about this home.

listening to…Michael Pollan on Armchair Expert. This took me a while to get through, but it’s an interesting topic and conversation.

also listening to…Success Kills Creativity. I related to this so much. If you’re someone who’s running your own company or feeling a lack of creative juice, I’d listen to this.

reading…Tieghan of Half Baked Harvest Makes This Easy Skillet Recipe Every Week. Shared my favorite recipe with the Camille Style’s team this week.

loving…the Tan Luxe self tan drops. I took this with me to Mexico and instantly saw my skin come to life. I mix the drops into my Nécessaire body lotion for the perfect subtle glow. Since I’ve been home, I’ve been using their gradual tan body lotion to keep up the bronzed skin.

ordering…a Dyson vacuum, so excited. the vacuums we have are ancient. After reading this article I’m thinking of getting the cordless Detect 15 for my house, but the bigger upright vacuum for the studio since we always have more to pick up. Big price difference between the two, but I’m curious to compare them both. Does anyone have a favorite Dyson?

loving…Earth and Element Ceramics. Such cute and unique pieces.

ordered….Dr. Jart+ Cicapai Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30. I’ve been hearing so much about this product. I struggle with redness and uneven coloring, so I’m excited to try it.

2. Frozen treats for July.

Swirled Berry Ice Cream Butter Cake

No Churn Minted White Chocolate Swirled Ice Cream

Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream Bars

Peaches and Cream Pretzel Pie

4 Ingredient Creamy Fruit Popsicles

Creamy Vegan Chocolate Fudge Pops

3. It’s 25% off everything on Terrain…

Here are my picks! Use the code ALL25 at checkout.

4. Favorite questions of the week…vacation edition.

q: How many days where you in Cabo? And was it long enough? I want to start planning!
a: I flew in on Monday and came home on Thursday. I had Tuesday and Wednesday to spend fully in Cabo. It was a good amount for me personally, but I would recommend staying 4-5 days at least. There is so much to see and do, not to mention the awesome weather to enjoy!

q: What was your favorite at Flora Farm in Cabo?
a: The arugula pizza, the ravioli, roasted broccoli, catch of the day, and if you love pork…you have to order the pork chop

q: Do you pick up recipes ideas when on vacay/trying new foods? 
a: yes, definitely!! I wish I had the opportunity to travel more for this reason. my family travels all the time and they often send me back photos of some of the foods they’ve eaten for new inspiration 🙂

q: Where is you favorite place in Cabo? I’m here right now!
a: I really enjoyed the neighborhood we stayed in, Pedregal. All of the homes are built into the mountain and around the rocks. It’s so pretty to walk the hilly cobblestone roads. We also loved the Cabo Surf area/beach. and of course I thought Flora Farms was great!

q: Is it nice have someone cook for you for once?
a: honestly, it feels very weird!

q: What is easy to cook for a big group on vacation?
a: I love to do simple dishes. pasta salad and tacos are always fun. or just grill up a few different meats and do a big side of grilled vegetables

q: How did you find the house? We have a big group and love being together!
a: Vrbo was so helpful in helping us find this home!! originally we had a hotel planned but a house worked out so much better!!

q: Did you all eat a lot of fish while on vacation?
a: Yes! The fish tacos were my favorite…even my mom ate one and she doesn’t ever, ever even go near fish

q: Is Cabo super hot in July? Thinking about going for my bachelorette party.
a: It was very, very comfortable. High 70’s during the day and it cooled off a night. The dry heat helps!

q: Why did you vacation for only 2 full days? No judgment, just curious! 
a: I just couldn’t take more time off. 3 days in the sun was perfect for me ? plus I have  another trip in a week!

q: What’s your favorite thing about being part of a big family?
a: having 7+ guaranteed best friends. between my siblings, my 3 cousins (that feel like siblings), my sister-in-law, and all the girlfriends, there’s always someone to hang with or talk to. and we’ve all got each other’s back. love my fam!

q: Did you cook while on vacation?
a: aside from making my mom a very simple cheese quesadilla for lunch, cutting up a pineapple, and making Oslo a bottle, nope!

q: How’s the food in Cabo?
a: we thought the food was awesome. we ate lots of chips and guacamole, tacos, fish and randomly, some really good Italian food too. oh, and of course, some fun drinks too!

5. I need a good at home workout?

The place where I am heading to I might not be able to do my usual morning routine. When I travel, I normally just head out the door and walk/hike, but this trip is different and I might not be able to do that.

I’m curious, what are your favorite workouts to do inside? I’m more of a light strength/stretching kind of person. I love to get my heart moving, but at the same time, nothing crazy intense.

So what’s your favorite workout? I’m thinking of trying a class by Megan Roup, has anyone taken one of her classes?

6. Favorite photos from the week.

(hikes with Merle) 

(new pieces from Alo)

(the sweetest cherries all the way from Hood River, Oregon)

(say hello to the mom and baby moose I see almost everyday)

(the sweetest tops from Love Shack Fancy)

(sunsets in July)

7. Favorite links I’m loving…

Vintner’s Daughter Founder Interview…one of my favorite skincare brands. the serum is part of my daily routine.

Satisfying Trail Snacks and Meals for Longer Hikes…love these ideas.

One Thing the ‘Gossip Girl’ Reboot Gets Right? Furniture…I agree, it’s very well styled, as is the entire show.

The Luxury Cruise Ship Vacations You Won’t Want to Miss…such beautiful destinations.

27 Summer Recipes That Make Us Want to Fire Up the Grill…delicious and healthy too.

15 of the Most Beautiful Lakes to Visit in the United States…wow, so pretty, and incredible that these are all within the US.

This New $350 Million Luxury Train Will Change How We Travel…so cool. travel is certainly changing.

40+ Home Essentials From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale…fun finds for your home.

Clé’s Latest Tile Launch Is Wrapped In 24-Karat Gold…so pretty. I love this tile.

27 Wall Decor Ideas to Refresh Your Space…cute ideas if you’re looking.

How To Design Your Cabinetry To Work Best For Your Family…good to keep in mind if you’re renovating.

12 Cabinet Spice Rack Ideas That Give You Precious Countertop Space Back…love these ideas. I want to try a few.

Beauty Products from Nordstrom Sale…even more good finds.

Sculpt Society’s Megan Roup Shares Her Popular Quickie Workout…might be trying this!

8. Nordstrom sale picks…

9. This week’s dinners + favorite weekend eats…

Monday: Honey Garlic Shrimp, Corn, and Avocado Bacon Salad

Tuesday: Easy Sheet Pan Tomato Herb Pizza

Wednesday: Sweet Thai Basil Chicken

Thursday: One Skillet Greek Chicken and Orzo with Tomatoes, Feta, and Tzatziki

Friday: Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi with Sage Butter and Cherry Tomatoes

Saturday: Strawberry Pink Drink

Sunday: Peaches and Cream Pretzel Pie