Friday Favorites – July Week 5

Friday Favorites – July Week 5

 

How is it already the last Friday of July? Summer always seems to fly by, but we’re determined to enjoy every backyard BBQ, every scoop of ice cream, every late-night chat on the patio, and every sunset before August arrives. This week’s favorites are all about making the most of the season with a few things we’ve been loving lately.

Grab your favorite cold drink, settle into your favorite chair, and let’s dive into this week’s favorites!

 

 

 

 

🍒 Favorite Summer Snack

Frozen Grapes

 

Simple? Yes. Delicious? Absolutely! Wash a bunch of grapes, pat them dry, and pop them in the freezer for a few hours. They’re sweet, refreshing, and the perfect healthy treat on a hot afternoon.

They’re also great to pack for the pool or enjoy while watching a movie.

 

🛒 Favorite Trader Joe’s Find

Trader Joe’s Garlic & Asiago Cheese Dip

 

 

This creamy, cheesy dip is seriously addictive! Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables, and watch it disappear in minutes.

Lou Lou Tip: Spread it on a toasted sandwich or stir a spoonful into warm pasta for an easy flavor boost.

🌼 Favorite Flower

Zinnias

 

 

If you’re looking for flowers that practically grow themselves, zinnias are the answer. They’re colorful, cheerful, attract butterflies, and make beautiful bouquets all summer long.

Cut a few for your kitchen table—you’ll smile every time you walk by.

📺 Favorite TV Show

The Americas

 

 

If you love breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife, this nature series is a must-watch. From towering mountains to beautiful coastlines and fascinating animals, every episode is packed with stunning cinematography and amazing stories from across North and South America.

It’s the perfect show to unwind with after a busy day, and you’ll probably find yourself planning your next vacation before the credits roll.

Lou Lou Tip: Make it a family night with popcorn, cozy blankets, and see how many animals everyone can spot before the episode ends!

🍽️ Favorite Summer Dinner

Garlic Fried Gnocchi

 

 

One of our favorite recipes on the Lou Lou Girls blog! Crispy, golden gnocchi tossed with garlic, butter, and parmesan makes an easy dinner that tastes like something from your favorite Italian restaurant.

Serve it with grilled chicken and a fresh garden salad for the perfect summer meal.

Lou Lou Tip: Add fresh basil and cherry tomatoes from the garden for even more summer flavor!

🎵 Favorite Song This Week

“Choosin’ Texas” — Ella Langley

 

 

If you’ve turned on country radio this summer, chances are you’ve heard this one! “Choosin’ Texas” has become one of the biggest songs of the season, with its catchy chorus, relatable lyrics, and unmistakable country sound. It’s the kind of song that’s perfect for road trips, evenings on the back porch, or turning up while you’re grilling dinner. It has quickly become the soundtrack to summer for country fans across the country.

Lou Lou Tip: Add this one to your summer playlist—you’ll be singing along before the first chorus is over!

🎙️ Favorite Podcast

The Jamie Kern Lima Show

 

If you’re looking for a podcast that’s uplifting, encouraging, and full of inspiring conversations, this one is worth adding to your playlist. Jamie talks with authors, entrepreneurs, athletes, and everyday people who share practical wisdom about faith, confidence, relationships, and living with purpose.

It’s the perfect podcast to listen to while taking a walk, folding laundry, driving, or tackling a weekend project. Every episode leaves you feeling a little more motivated and a lot more encouraged.

Lou Lou Tip: Save a few episodes before your next road trip—they’ll make the miles fly by!

🛍️ Favorite Amazon Find

Collapsible Market Tote

 

 

Whether you’re heading to the farmers market, grocery store, or packing snacks for a picnic, a sturdy collapsible market tote is one of those things you don’t realize you need until you have one. It keeps everything organized, folds flat for easy storage, and is perfect for all your summer adventures.

Lou Lou Tip: Keep one in your car so you’re always ready for an impromptu produce stop!

🍓 Favorite Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

 

 

They’ve been around forever, but somehow they taste even better during the summer. Creamy vanilla, sweet strawberries, and that crunchy coating make this nostalgic treat impossible to resist.

🚗 Favorite Weekend Adventure

Visit a Local Farmers Market

 

 

Fresh produce, homemade bread, local honey, handmade soaps, fresh flowers…there’s something special about strolling through a farmers market on a Saturday morning. Plus, you’ll usually leave with fresh ingredients for the week’s meals and maybe a few goodies you didn’t know you needed.

🛍️ Favorite Amazon Buys

We’re always on the hunt for products that make everyday life a little easier, and these have definitely earned a spot on our favorites list this month!

🍉 1. Fullstar Vegetable Chopper

 

 

If meal prep isn’t your favorite task, this little gadget is a game-changer! It quickly chops onions, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and more in just a few seconds. It’s perfect for summer salads, salsa, and all those fresh garden veggies.

 

 

💧 2. Owala FreeSip Water Bottle

 

 

 

 

Staying hydrated is so much easier with a water bottle you actually love. We love the leak-proof design, built-in straw, and all the fun color options. It’s become our everyday grab-and-go essential.

 

 

🕶️ 3. SOJOS Polarized Sunglasses

 

 

 

 

 

These stylish sunglasses look designer without the designer price tag. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for road trips, pool days, and running errands in the summer sun.

 

🧺 4. Foldable Picnic Blanket

 

 

 

Whether you’re headed to the park, an outdoor concert, fireworks, or a family picnic, this waterproof blanket folds up neatly and is easy to carry. It’s one of those purchases you’ll use all season long.

 

 

✨ 5. Motion Sensor Closet Lights

 

 

These rechargeable lights are one of those little upgrades that make a big difference. They’re perfect for closets, pantries, laundry rooms, under kitchen cabinets, or anywhere you need a little extra light without complicated installation.

Lou Lou Tip: Keep an Amazon wish list year-round! When Prime Day or holiday sales roll around, you’ll already have your favorite items saved and ready to grab at a great price.

 

❤️ This Week’s Happy Thought

 

 

As July comes to a close, remember that summer isn’t over yet.

There’s still time for one more road trip.

One more family BBQ.

One more late-night ice cream run.

One more sunset worth stopping for.

Don’t rush into the next season before you’ve enjoyed this one. Sometimes the best memories are made in the simple, ordinary moments that become unforgettable.

Happy Friday, friends! Thank you for spending another month of Friday Favorites with us. We can’t wait to share a whole new lineup of fun finds, recipes, and inspiration with you in August!