I Just Really Like It: Volume 6
Featuring some beach day favs, a standout tomato toast, and more.
You’re not imagining things: I missed last week (traveling!). So, today’s list is a little longer. I’d also like to give a nod to this recipe. My mom made it a couple of weeks ago and I haven’t been able to get it out of my head: it’s summery, savory, salty, rich, fresh—this toast has it all. The only thing my mom changed was leaving off the balsamic glaze, but I feel like it’s pretty customizable (swap out the dairy, leave off the anchovies, use gluten-free bread, etc). Or, you could make it exactly as it’s written. Any way you slice it, it feels like a pretty perfect lunch, light dinner, or starter.
Simple Modern Insulated Tumbler
I’ve had this tumbler for about two years and, for me, it’s infinitely better than the Stanley one that’s all over everywhere. Why? It doesn’t leak when it’s knocked over, it easily fits in a car or bike cup holder, it comes with two straws, and it’s cheaper and always available.
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner
Our washing machine smelled, well, iffy when we bought our house. In pursuit of cleaning it, I’ve tried a bunch of different products. This one from OxiClean is the best I’ve found yet. It actually deodorizes it and is easy to use (just pour it in and run the machine).
White Rabbit Premium Cotton Pads
I love the Shiseido cotton pads, but when I recently ran out of them I decided to give these ones from White Rabbit a go. For a couple of extra bucks, you get 35 more sheets. While they’re not as soft as the Shiseido ones, they’re still gentle. And they’re pretty strong: I’ve yet to have one tear or begin to come apart, even when saturated with micellar water.
EltaMD Tinted Sunscreen
This is the skincare line sold at my dermatologist’s office, so I’ve considered buying this sunscreen for a while now. And it’s it for me: it settles into my skin beautifully, provides sheer coverage for no-makeup days, and looks beautiful under makeup. As someone with eczema, it’s fragrance-free and doesn’t irritate my skin. I like the pump applicator, too.
COOLA Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist
My scalp seems to get burnt at least once every summer. But not this year! Because I bought this scalp sunscreen. I wore it for days, at the beach, and it did its job beautifully. Plus, you can spray it all over your locks to protect your hair from UV rays.
Hose of Noa Anywhere Picnic Mat
I just got back from spending some days in Cape Cod and I don’t think I’ll ever go a beach day without bringing this mat. It’s ideal for lounging on and keeping your towels out of the sand. It also dries off quickly, cleans off in a snap, and is easy to store (it folds up into a rectangle that fits in its carrying pouch).
YETI Camino Carryall Tote
I know it’s expensive, but I really fucking love this YETI tote. You can carry it on your shoulder or use the parallel bars located towards the base of the handles to hold it down by your side. It has zippered pockets and two side sleeves for water bottles and whatnot. It’s also durable as heck and has an interior that’s easy to clean up and wipe down—ideal for beach towels, swimsuits, food remnants, and more.