monthly recap | june 2017 — wine, books and wanderlust

Guys. We're halfway through 2017! Can you believe it?

Additionally, Wine, Books, & Wanderlust is almost 1 year old!!! It's so hard to believe. I initially started this blog as a way to share favorite places from my travels and recipes I'm frequently asked for. This is has been a phenomenal first year and I've learned a lot. I'm looking forward to what Year 2 has to offer.

top blog of the month

The fuzzies are two for two! Apparently, everyone likes pictures of adorable animals...and that means I like you even more than before.

hpotm (hot post of the month)

So, apparently, people are more adventurous than I ever dreamed of being. I shared a post about a website that will plan an entire vacation for you, based on your specifications and budget. I *might* try it someday...but I also might be too much of a control freak to let that happen!

insta-greatness

Reading after adulting is a fan favorite - it's definitely one of mine!

travel

While I haven't actually traveled outside of Pittsburgh in the last month (OMGGGG! I'm going through withdrawals!), I've had a chance to explore my new city and reflect on some thing that make me a better traveler. The Man Friend and I had a chance to enjoy some local restaurants. Our friend, Morgan, came for a weeklong visit, which gave us the opportunity to act a little touristy in our new city, as well. Don't miss out on the pictorial highlighting some of the best things at the Phipps Conservatory. Additionally, I wrote about what makes a great houseguest and a great host...these are pretty important, especially on summery road trips.

food

While I got a chance to eat out a lot this month, I also had the opportunity to play some in my new kitchen. The best thing I made all month was a healthy recipe with farro, roasted vegetables, and a little feta. My recipes for grilled (or baked) pizza was also a big hit this month. It's easier than you may think - it's a great way to get your pizza fix without eating a lot of unnecessary fat and calories. We also indulged in a new cocktail, a speakeasy-era beverages called a gin rickey. We added our own minty twist to it...you can find the Wine, Books, & Wanderlust version here.

Side Note: just so you know - I cuss on my blog. I'm not overly obnoxious about it and I don't use discriminatory language. However, my blanked out use of the words "sh*t" and *f*cking" were enough to get an Instagram boost disqualified due to "offensive language." If you're sensitive to the occasional potty mouth language - I'm glad you came, but this probably isn't the blog for you. And neither is Thug Kitchen.

books

Ugh, I'm in a reading funk. However, our upcoming trip (see below) is going to give me an excuse to bury my nose in multiple books before July is over. I'm still on pace for my reading challenges...and I hope you are, too! Also, I want to know what you're planning to read this summer. I have a whole stack of "beach" reads to devour before the sun goes down on this season.

upcoming plans

We're headed back to our annual family river trip next week! It's exciting to be heading back to Texas. Our family really needs a little "boost" right now. I also can't wait to see my sweet nephew. And everyone else.

The Man Friend's dad and stepmom are also planning a visit for mid-July. I'm super excited to get to explore Pittsburgh a little more. We have a list of places to try...and a lot of beer to drink, since his dad is venturing into beer brewing. It will be interesting to see what all we discover!

I'm looking forward to July! Also, stay tuned, as I'm planning a special Wine, Books, & Wanderlust birthday surprise for readers!!!