The May Edit

If you’re a new reader, the Monthly Edit is a brain dump of everything I consumed (or consumed me) during the month. This newsletter is filled with recommendations and reflections that I hope will add value to your life.

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This month’s Pinterest inspo.

May is the month where things start to turn GREEN. I’m feeling inspired by the patterns, colors, and textures found in nature, especially in flowers and foods.

I’m shocked at how many movies and TV shows I managed to squeeze into an already busy month. We even saw two movies in theaters— Project Hail Mary (date night) and The Mandalorian and Grogu.

• Project Hail Mary

• The Mandalorian and Grogu

• Remarkably Bright Creatures

• Wuthering Heights

• Good Omens

• Off-Campus

• Lord of the Flies

In Her Own League by Liz Tomforde was my favorite romance of the month by far. It’s quite possibly one of the best audiobooks I’ve listened to so far this year! I’m eager to go back and read the Windy City series.

I signed up our family to participate in our library system’s summer reading program. They’re using Beanstack, a web and mobile app platform used by libraries and schools to promote reading and engagement through challenges and activities. It allows users to track their reading, earn digital badges, and participate in reading programs, with opportunities for prizes at the end of the summer! I’m enjoying the built-in reading timer so far.

New albums I’ve enjoyed this month:

• Middle of Nowhere by Kacey Musgraves

• Peaches by The Black Keys

• Remember the Humans by Broken Social Scene

• The Afterparty by Lykke Li

• locket deluxe by Madison Beer

• (Mine) by Hilary Duff

I’m also still stuck on Noah Kahan’s latest album, The Great Divide.

I shared this last May, but it’s worth resharing.

This month, I’m switching things up and sharing some ideas and tips for poolside dinners. Our two favorite meals to bring to the pool are subs and pizza. Here are a few easy ideas to keep things light on your next trip to the pool:

1. Subs and Sandwiches

Subs and sandwiches are classic! They are easy to prepare, transport, and eat. Wrap them in paper to save leftovers for later or toss when you’re done.

2. Pizza

Pizza is surprisingly easy to share at the pool. You can bake your own at home or pick up a pie from your favorite pizzeria. When we bake pizza at home, we cut it and bring it on the cutting board wrapped in foil. It sounds a little crazy, but it works!

3. Fresh Salads

Both veggie and pasta salads are easy to prep at home and pack in an insulated container. You can bring small bowls to serve out individual portions.

4. Snacks

My kids ask for a snack every 30 minutes so we pack a cooler with some of our favorites. I suggest:

• Cut Fruit: Watermelon and berries are both hydrating and sweet so they can double as a dessert.

• Chips and Crackers: I usually pack a selection of chips and goldfish in individual-sized bags.

• Applesauce Pouches: These are mess-free and a hit with kids. I’m also happy to pass these out to other families since they’re individually packaged.

• Veggie Sticks and Dip: Carrot and celery sticks with ranch dressing is another great side dish for sandwich nights.

5. Beverages

Staying hydrated is key when spending time in the sun (especially for anyone taking an SSRI). Here are some easy drink options:

• Juice Boxes: A convenient option for kids that’s easy to pack.

• Sparkling Water: A refreshing fizz without the sugar of sodas.

• Reusable Water Bottles

Packing Tips

• Use a Cooler Bag: Keeping your food and drinks chilled is essential, so pack everything in a cooler bag with ice packs or in containers that can sit on ice.

• Avoid Glass: Most pools prohibit glass bottles, so opt for plastic or cans to ensure safety.

• Clean Up: Be mindful of leaving no trash behind. Pack a roll of paper towels and bring a few extra bags to collect any waste or bring home leftovers.

It’s called Maycember for a reason. This month was so busy and full that I had to consult my Google calendar to remember everything we did. It’s all a blur. Our Girl Scout troop had its indoor swimming center field trip and bridging party. We’ll be Brownies for another year, but a good portion of the girls will be moving up. My mom and I spent some solo time together for Mother’s Day. We saw a friend’s band play at a local coffee shop and celebrated a close friend’s birthday. Our first season of Spring baseball wrapped up. My son graduated from 4K, and my daughter had her awards day program at school. We spent our first few weekends at the pool for the season. I turned 36, and we took a day trip to Columbia and Greenville for the weekend. We saw the US Men’s Senior National Team (40+) play in an exhibition game against a local team in preparation for their World Cup in Thailand. My son had his tonsils and adenoids removed in an uneventful surgery. I read lots of books, watched plenty of TV, and enjoyed snuggles with him during my week off while he was recovering. We ended the month celebrating my niece’s high school graduation and “freshly graduated” lemonade bar party.

My patio garden is in bloom. Even though we’re still technically in drought conditions, all the rain at the end of May helped my plants grow by leaps and bounds. As I type, we have crookneck squash, bell peppers, strawberries, and tomatoes beginning to produce fruit. I always enjoy getting my kids involved in the garden. They’ve been a big help with the watering on sunny, muggy days. They also get to enjoy the fruit of their labor literally by picking strawberries as they ripen.

I’ve been loving content about making the most out of the Summer. Check out these Substack articles if you need some inspiration. These ladies will have you reaching for a book or hobby instead of your phone all season long.

A Simple Guide to a Scroll-free Summer

2026 Summer Reading Guide

The BIG Summer Reading Guide!

12 crafts to do outside on a sunny day

What was the best part of your month?

Elsewhere on the Internet: Goodreads / Storygraph / Pinterest

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