Weekend Favorites // clear sandals, Boston splash pads, new recipes

The other day I was out around Boston in this outfit, and a stylish teen chased me down the block… “Miss, do you have a business card? I really admire your style.” At first I thought it must be some kids trolling me, but I didn’t see any of their friends around, and they turned out to be sincere. It was such a simple person-to-person interaction that had me smiling for a good 10 minutes after, and reminded me that kind words are free and to pay it forward!

A few highlights from our laid-back weekend:

• Went splash pad hopping around Boston!
  • Artesani Playground is one of the biggest public splash pads with a wading pool, but it gets very busy. Check out Spring Shabu a few minutes away for all you can eat weekend lunch (TONS of fresh veggies!), but it gets busy there as well.
  • Medal of Honor playground in South Boston is a family-friendly one with a little splash area, good for younger kids from babies to toddler-aged.
  • We also like Carter playground by Northeastern U which has a playground, toddler-friendly splash area and trickling “river” to play in.
  • The Christian Science Plaza adjacent to the Prudential mall has a powerful water spray fountain for kids to run through, and portable bathroom stalls in the summertime when the fountain is on.
• Made easy New England clam chowder again with fresh summer corn. See my step-by-step video with suggestions for dairy-free subs and how we make it a little lighter. Thanks Damn Delicious for the original recipe using heavy cream.
• Nori’s former nanny got us hooked on Jamaican food, which is always so layered in flavors. Nick bought short ribs and subbed it for oxtail in My Forking Life’s instantpot Jamaican stew, which is a hit with our whole family! If you don’t have Jamaican “browning” sauce on hand, he usually subs in dark soy sauce or coconut aminos.

Since I always get questions on waterproof yet comfy kids shoes (a struggle!), I have to say the original Natives slip on sneakers are worth it.  They’re extremely lightweight and dry right away. We had been loving the Dick’s version with a velcro strap opening, but unfortunately the velcro wore out and won’t close anymore so the Natives have lasted longer into hand-me-down status.

Btw Rios grey sandals above are not intended to be water shoes, but in the same listing there is a mesh option that should be quicker to try. I like how this brand has cushioned, flexible non slip soles that seems very comfy for him.

A few notes about this ASTR cotton dress (more sizes here & here), which is on sale and also comes in light blue. This is a midi dress on the model, but can work on shorter ladies since the sleeves are 3/4 length and the waistline is on the higher side. The skirt hits at maxi length on me and still works with flat shoes, and you can wear a regular bra with this! The material is a crisp cotton poplin with a back zipper at the waist. If you’re hesitant to wear white, this trusty stain solution (rub it on and soak before throwing in the machine wash) has given me freedom from fear of food stains and dirty handprints!

I’ve also been eying these clear sandals for a while and love how wearable they are thanks to the low, 2 inch block heel. The clear bands are extra leg-flattering and surprisingly comfortable for walking around the city! Chic simply with jeans or shorts as well. See this sandal in more colors.