These aren’t just seasonal picks—they’re intentional choices that support a summer lived with presence. The pace tends to quicken, the days slip by, and the temptation to do more often overshadows the need to feel more.

These are the products we’re keeping close this season: small tools, thoughtful reads, and everyday essentials that help make room for slowness, sunshine, and memory-making.

beauty

Beauty this summer is less about adding more—and more about feeling aligned. Clean, hydrating, protective formulas help skin and body stay supported through the heat, travel, and busy days.

Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant
A subtle, long-lasting deodorant that holds up through heat and movement. It’s what we reach for before a long morning walk or while getting ready for a no-fuss dinner with friends. Clean ingredients, no irritation, and a scent that feels calm and grounded.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
This antioxidant serum is part of the morning routine—usually applied in a patch of sun at the bathroom sink while the day is still quiet. It supports glow, elasticity, and long-term skin health.

Babo Botanicals Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
The bottle that lives in every bag, ready for the park, pool, or an impromptu walk. It goes on light, protects well, and doesn’t leave a mess behind.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm
We keep this in the kitchen drawer—perfect for those in-between moments when hands are dry, the baby’s napping, and the sun is starting to shift. It hydrates and resets without ever feeling too precious.

Merit Shade Slick
A swipe before school drop-off, a midday touch-up between meetings, or the only makeup worn all weekend. It’s effortless, polished, and always in reach.

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
On mornings when there’s time—or not much time at all—this goes on in seconds and wears all day. It evens out tone, adds glow, and protects with SPF 40. No foundation needed.

movement

Staying active in summer doesn’t have to mean intensity. These movement tools are about staying connected to the body—stretching, walking, flowing, and feeling strong in whatever pace the day holds.

Alo Lightweight Warrior Mat
This mat lives rolled up in the corner of the living room. Unrolled in seconds, it turns any space into a place to breathe, stretch, and move freely—even with kids playing beside you.

Bala Bangles
Worn on a morning dog walk or during a midday reset flow, these add gentle resistance that you feel—without breaking your rhythm. Just enough to bring awareness back to the body.

books

A summer well-lived needs moments of stillness. These books offer that—stories and science that invite reflection, re-centering, and the kind of insight that lingers long after you close the cover.

The Well-Lived Life by Dr. Gladys McGarey
Kept on the nightstand or picked up during nap time, this book brings grounding perspective to a full life. Warm, wise, and full of quiet encouragement.

Martha’s Cookbook
Flipped through with coffee in hand or bookmarked before a weekend grocery run. These recipes are familiar, nostalgic, and meant to be shared.

Breath by James Nestor
Best read on the back porch or a quiet flight, this book transforms something automatic—breathing—into something intentional. Science-based and surprisingly calming.

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
A beautifully told story that feels equal parts heartwarming and hopeful. This is the kind of book to take on vacation, pass to a friend, and remember long after it’s finished.

in the kitchen

The kitchen tends to become the heart of summer—whether it's making quick meals between activities or unwinding with something cold. These picks are here to keep it all easy, fresh, and thoughtful.

Curious Elixirs No. 4
Pulled from the fridge for sunset chats or post-dinner wind-downs. This non-alcoholic botanical blend feels grounding, with a slow-burn spice that makes it feel special.

Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder
Stirred into a tall glass in the middle of the day, often after a long walk or time outside. Clean hydration with no sugar—just the good stuff.

GIR Ultimate Essentials Set
The tools you reach for every single day. Sturdy, easy to clean, and color-coded enough that they don’t get lost in the drawer. These make quick cooking feel just a little more joyful.

GoMacro Oatmeal Chocolate Chip MacroBar
Soft, chewy, and not overly sweet—this bar is our go-to for rushed mornings, midday recharges, or packing something reliable in a beach bag. It’s plant-based, gluten-free, and actually filling, which makes it just as handy for adults as it is for kids.

Allergy Smart Birthday Cake Cookies
Gluten-free, soft-baked, and covered in sprinkles—these are made for spontaneous celebrations, sharing with kids, or just keeping in the pantry for a sweet treat that doesn’t derail the day.

on the go

Summer often means movement—short trips, long drives, spontaneous adventures. These are the pieces that travel well, keep drinks cold, and help bring a little comfort wherever the day goes.

Beis Carry-On Roller
Pulled out for everything from weekend drives to airport sprints. Durable, easy to organize, and the kind of bag you’re still glad you brought—even on the trip home.

Brumate Resa 25oz Tumbler
Goes from car to pool to beach chair. It keeps drinks cold and hands dry, which makes it a favorite for long errands, outdoor naps, and everything in between.

Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick
Warm weather means shorts, dresses, and long days outside—and this anti-chafe stick makes it all feel easier. It glides on smooth, leaves no residue, and saves the day during beach walks or park hangs.

conclusion

Summer is full—but it doesn’t have to feel busy. These favorites help create space for what really matters: presence, ease, and the kind of joy that sneaks up on you during long walks, shared meals, or quiet afternoons. However you spend the season, we hope these tools, reads, and essentials support you in living it fully—and on your own terms.