Hello, dear friends, and a very happy Friday to you all! I’m delighted to be writing to you from the breathtaking shores of Laguna Beach, California, where I’ve found a much-needed escape from the intense heat wave currently scorching Arizona. We’re settled here for a glorious month, and you truly wouldn’t believe the amount we managed to pack! My goal was to create a comfortable, home-away-from-home experience, which meant bringing almost my entire kitchen. Yes, you heard that right! I even strategically snuck in my powerful Vitamix blender and my trusty ice machine, ensuring our month-long coastal retreat would be filled with delicious, homemade goodness and refreshing cold drinks, no matter how far we are from our usual setup. This little slice of paradise is proving to be the perfect antidote to desert temperatures, and I’m already soaking up every moment of the vibrant California lifestyle.
Before we packed up and headed west, my kitchen in Arizona was a whirlwind of activity. I had to embark on a period of recipe testing like CRAZY – a flurry of culinary experiments, tweaks, and taste-tests to perfect an exciting new collection of dishes. The dedication was intense, but the results are incredibly rewarding, and I am SO EXCITED to share the next batch of NEW, mouth-watering recipes with you all very soon, so definitely be on the lookout for those updates! Now that I’ve transitioned into our temporary California home, the dynamic of cooking has shifted wonderfully. Here, I get to cook purely “just for fun.” There’s no pressure of deadlines or perfection; it’s simply a joyful, creative outlet, making every meal preparation a wonderfully relaxing and truly enjoyable experience. The inspiration from the ocean air and relaxed pace has already sparked a few spontaneous culinary adventures!
One of the absolute highlights of our stay here in Laguna Beach is the delightful prospect of having a non-stop flow of friends and family coming to visit. Our calendar is happily brimming with arrival and departure dates, creating an atmosphere of constant warmth, laughter, and shared joy. This continuous stream of beloved faces makes our coastal getaway even more special and fun, turning every day into a mini-celebration. As an undeniable early bird, I relish waking up well before the gentle hum of morning activity transforms into the wonderful chaos of a house full of guests. It’s during these serene hours that I truly cherish the unique ambiance of our Laguna Beach rental. All of the doors and windows are left open, allowing the cheerful melodies of local birds to serenade the start of a new day, and, most importantly, inviting that incredible cool ocean breeze to sweep gently through the house. It is truly heavenly – a moment of pure tranquility and rejuvenation that sets the perfect tone for the exciting day ahead, preparing me for all the wonderful moments with our cherished visitors.
Beyond the beautiful views and delightful company, one of my absolute favorite parts about being in California, especially along the coast, is the unparalleled ability to simply walk OUTSIDE at any time of the day and embark on a refreshing walk or even go for a run. Let’s be real… I am definitely not running these days! Hahaha! But the sheer freedom and accessibility of outdoor activity here is a stark and welcome contrast to our routine back in Arizona. There, to get any decent walk in during the warmer months, you literally have to wake up at the crack of dawn, often before the sun has even thought about making an appearance, just to beat the scorching heat. Here, the temperate climate and consistent ocean breeze mean leisurely strolls are a pleasure from morning until evening, making every day feel like an invitation to explore. This change of pace and climate truly enhances our quality of life during our stay, encouraging more movement and appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding us.
I am pretty sure if our sweet Bentley could talk, with his wagging tail and boundless energy, he would emphatically declare that this was the best place ever. His happiness is palpable, largely because he is somehow managing to squeeze in several invigorating walks per day, a stark improvement from his desert routine. His excitement for each outing is infectious, whether it’s a morning exploration of the local trails, a midday stroll along the quieter streets, or an evening amble down to the ocean bluff to watch the sunset. Bentley’s enthusiasm reminds us all to savor these precious moments of freedom and fresh air, and his content sighs at the end of each day are a testament to the joy of coastal living.
One of our most cherished new traditions has been walking down to the magnificent ocean bluff most nights to enjoy our dinner al fresco. It’s an experience that feels truly magical and utterly picturesque, because the views are simply breathtaking as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky with an array of vibrant colors. It may sound a tad “super extra” to some, but I absolutely adore setting a lovely table and utilizing our collection of pretty dishes, even when we’re dining outdoors. For me, this is an absolute dream! There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming an ordinary meal into a special occasion, surrounded by such natural splendor. I like to believe that for these precious weeks, I’m living within the charming, aesthetically pleasing world of a Nancy Meyers film. Hahaha! Every detail, from the gentle clinking of cutlery to the panoramic ocean backdrop, contributes to an unforgettable dining experience that feels both luxurious and intimately familial.
While our days here have been largely filled with sunshine and joy, there has definitely been some quintessential “June Gloom” at the coast, as is common for this time of year in Southern California. For those unfamiliar, June Gloom typically describes the overcast skies and cooler temperatures often brought by a marine layer that hugs the coastline during late spring and early summer mornings, usually burning off to clear skies by the afternoon. Despite these occasional misty mornings, we are still absolutely loving every moment of our beach time. The cooler air can be quite refreshing, and there’s a unique, serene beauty to the muted light filtering through the clouds, perfect for long walks along the shore or simply listening to the rhythmic crash of the waves. We’ve embraced it as part of the authentic coastal experience, and it hasn’t deterred our enjoyment of the stunning Laguna Beach scenery one bit.
Yesterday, we indulged in a fantastic, easygoing dinner that was a definite crowd-pleaser. I whipped up some hearty Italian subs, generously packed with fresh deli meats, cheeses, and crisp vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty Italian dressing. To complement these flavorful sandwiches, I served a spread of classic sides: creamy macaroni salad, robust potato salad, a vibrant array of fresh fruit, and a medley of crunchy raw veggies paired with a rich, cooling ranch dip. It was an incredibly satisfying meal – DELICIOUS, uncomplicated, and perfect for a relaxed evening in. Everyone found something to love, making it a truly enjoyable family dinner that tasted even better than it looked.
One evening, we ventured out to experience something new and memorable, making our very first visit to the iconic Crystal Cove Shake Shack. This charming, rustic spot, perched right on the beach, offered a nostalgic atmosphere that instantly captivated us. The kids absolutely loved the laid-back, retro vibe, and the anticipation of a classic shake made the experience even more exciting. And let me tell you, the shakes themselves were super delicious – thick, creamy, and exactly what you crave after a day by the ocean. But what truly elevated the entire experience, making it utterly unforgettable, was the magnificent sunset we witnessed from our vantage point. The sky exploded with an array of fiery oranges, soft purples, and deep blues, creating a breathtaking backdrop that simply couldn’t be beat. It was a quintessential Southern California moment, filled with sweet treats and stunning natural beauty, a perfect family outing that we’ll cherish.
While exploring new eateries is always fun, I also deeply love and value our cozy dinners in, especially when we’re on vacation. There’s a special comfort in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere right at home. We often enjoy themes, and during our stay, we’ve already had a few delightful Italian nights, which are always a huge hit with the whole family. My kids, bless their hearts, could easily eat their weight in garlic cheese bread, so that’s an absolute staple, always appearing on our Italian menus. Beyond that, I love preparing my rich, homemade lasagna, layered with savory meats and bubbling cheese, alongside delicate ravioli tossed in a fragrant browned butter and sage sauce – a simple yet elegant dish. To complete the meal, a fresh Italian salad with crisp greens and generous shavings of fresh Parmesan cheese always balances the richness beautifully. These meals aren’t just about the food; they’re about the laughter, conversation, and cherished memories made around the dinner table.
So many fun and precious memories have already been made with the fam during this incredible coastal getaway! Every laugh, every shared meal, every sunset watched together feels incredibly special. We are truly cherishing this invaluable time together, especially because it precedes a significant milestone for our son, Carson. He will soon be leaving us for two years to embark on a church mission, an important and transformative journey. Knowing this makes every moment we share now feel even more profound and priceless. These are the days we will look back on, filled with warmth and love, as he steps into this new chapter of his life. We’re soaking up every second of togetherness, creating a reservoir of beautiful family memories that will last a lifetime.
Family Life: Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
It’s been an incredibly eventful and joyous period for our family, filled with significant milestones and proud moments! Our eldest son, Carson, recently graduated high school, marking the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. We’ve been immersed in all the wonderful graduation festivities, from the emotional ceremony to celebratory gatherings with loved ones. Witnessing his hard work and dedication culminate in this achievement has filled us with immense pride. He’s growing into such a remarkable young man, and we couldn’t be happier for his accomplishments and the bright future that lies ahead.
In addition to Carson’s graduation, our incredibly talented daughter, Sierra, who has been a dedicated and invaluable part of Modern Honey for years, accomplished something truly extraordinary last week: she ran her very first marathon! It’s incredible to witness her journey; she only recently picked up running, but she’s become utterly obsessed with it, embracing the challenge with a fierce determination. Watching her cross that finish line was an emotional and inspiring moment for all of us. Sierra never ceases to amaze me with her incredible work ethic, her unwavering dedication to setting ambitious goals, and her ability to tackle hard things head-on with such grace and resilience. She truly is an inspiration, constantly pushing her own boundaries and showing us all what’s possible with commitment.
Oh, and amidst all these wonderful celebrations, I certainly can’t forget to mention another significant family milestone: our youngest just turned sweet 16! It truly has been a BUSY two weeks, brimming with back-to-back celebrations and moments of immense joy. She is as sweet as they come, possessing a gentle and compassionate spirit that brightens every room she enters. We absolutely adore our little peacemaker; her kind heart and thoughtful nature bring so much harmony and warmth to our family dynamic. Watching her grow into a remarkable young woman has been one of life’s greatest blessings, and her 16th birthday was a beautiful reminder of the wonderful person she is becoming.
Changing gears a little, I wanted to share a fun and practical idea that we absolutely love, especially for travel and snacks: Have you ever made one of these clever candy tackle boxes? They’re essentially clear, compartmentalized organizers (like those used for fishing tackle or craft supplies) filled with an assortment of your favorite candies, nuts, and small snacks. They are so incredibly perfect for a multitude of occasions – ideal for keeping treats organized and accessible during long road trips, making them a hit on lake or beach trips where sand-free snacking is a must, providing a delightful surprise for picnics, or simply serving as a perfectly portioned and varied snack box for everyday munching. They’re a fantastic way to elevate your snack game and add a touch of fun to any outing!
Products I Am Loving: My Essential Kitchen Companion
As anyone who enjoys cooking knows, the right tools can make all the difference. In my kitchen, my skillets, pots, and pans are put to good use every single day, without fail. They endure a rigorous workout, preparing countless meals for my family, so I definitely put them through the wringer! Because of this constant use and the demanding nature of my cooking, durability and performance are paramount when it comes to cookware. I need tools that can stand up to the challenge, day in and day out, maintaining their quality and efficiency over time.
About 18 months ago, my wonderful husband, Dean, surprised me with a set of pans, and I have been absolutely LOVING them ever since. They have completely transformed my cooking experience, making meal preparation more efficient and enjoyable. In fact, I love them so much that when we were packing for our month-long stay in California, my largest skillet was the first item I made sure to carefully nestle into our luggage! It was non-negotiable; I simply couldn’t imagine cooking for an entire month without it. That’s how essential and cherished these pans have become in my culinary arsenal.
If you’re curious about cookware that truly performs and lasts, you might be asking: Have you tried the incredible HexClad pans? I’m such a huge fan of their hybrid design, which combines the best of stainless steel and non-stick, offering exceptional searing capabilities with easy cleanup. Because I genuinely believe in the quality and performance of HexClad, I personally reached out to them to share my enthusiasm. I’m thrilled to announce that I secured a special discount code just for you, my amazing readers, so you can experience these fantastic pans for yourself! You can now get 10% off your entire HexClad purchase. Simply use the code modernhoney at checkout to unlock your 10% savings. To learn more about the innovative technology behind HexClad and to browse their exceptional range of products, please CLICK this LINK HERE. Trust me, upgrading your cookware to HexClad is an investment your kitchen will thank you for!
For those of you who have had the pleasure of visiting Southern California, or perhaps live in the beautiful Orange County area, or even travel here frequently – I have a question for you! Do you have any truly great food recommendations you’d be willing to share? I am absolutely loving the opportunity to cook a ton in our rental, experimenting with new recipes and techniques inspired by our surroundings. However, I’m also incredibly eager to dive into the local culinary scene. I’m keen to try out as many new and exciting places as possible, while also making sure to revisit some of our long-standing favorites. From hidden gems and local diners to upscale dining experiences, I’m open to all suggestions! Your insights would be immensely helpful in guiding our gastronomic adventures during the remainder of our stay. Please share your go-to spots and must-try dishes!
Well, my friends, this one turned out to be another rather LONG post! But with so much happening – from coastal adventures and culinary delights to significant family milestones – I just had to share all the wonderful updates and experiences with you all. It brings me so much joy to connect with you and share these moments from our lives. Thank you so much for taking the time to read and for following along on our journey; your support truly means the world to me. I hope this glimpse into our Laguna Beach escape and recent family celebrations brings a smile to your face. I wish you all the very best weekend, filled with happiness, relaxation, and perhaps a little bit of your own joy. Until next time!