Rachel's Recs

What I'm reading, eating, wearing and listening to.

Hello darling,

How's it hanging? Did you do anything fun this weekend?

Fun is subjective - of course. But for me, it includes all things relaxing, romantic, or food-filled. So, as you can imagine, time in bed watching Netflix and eating wings with bae would be my dream weekend.

Though that wasn't my reality (darn you, laundry, gym, and the like), I received questions about my travels, new purchases, and what I've enjoyed recently. I'm digging a whole host of things, so in lieu of a new written piece, I've decided to share a breakdown of my joys by category.

If you find this helpful, I'll do a roundup of favs quarterly.

Also, this relationship goes both ways. Pleeeeeeeeassse, feel free to share what's been helping you get through this last stretch of summer and any recommendations you think I might enjoy.  

Let me know your thoughts!

I love you, have a great start to the week.

RL

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TRAVEL

Acadia, Maine

My greatest blessing has been marrying a man who loves to travel as much as me. (Acadia, ME, 2023)

Acadia National Park – Mountains, water, and trails. It's an outdoor lovers' paradise. We did a lap around Jordan Pond and visited Sand Beach but missed out on Cadillac Mountain and lunch at the Jordan Pond Restaurant. Don't even bother with their takeout. Two thumbs down.  

Copita Restaurant- This restaurant barely stands out from the street, but let me tell you, I was ready to lick my plate before leaving. My lamb chops were exquisite, and the wait staff was attentive and personable. Considering the crowd coming in as we left, it's a local favorite on the island.

Bangor, Maine

Timber Kitchen & Bar – Phil and I didn't know what to make of Bangor's most highly-rated restaurant being connected to a Residence Inn, but it checked out. I'd return for the timber wings, pan-seared ahi tuna, and scallops. Skip the blackened halibut tacos and buffalo chicken dip.

This photo does the statue no justice. This piece is super huge! (Bangor, ME, 2023)

Paul Bunyan Statue – Right across the street from Timber is a 31 foot tall statue of the massive lumberjack. Logging has historically been a huge part of the local community's economy so it makes sense why this icon looms over the city's uptown.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Howes Street Beach – Catching the sunset over this quiet bay was the highlight of my experience. With high dunes, soft waves, and a clean shore, my vote would have been here if spending more time was possible.

Encore – If it weren't for summer's mosquitos and other biting pests, I likely would have enjoyed the gorgeous courtyard the restaurant offered. The food wasn't memorable, although the bread rolls served before they arrived were good.

LIC, New York

Shoe check. Yup, we’re matching. (Brooklyn Bridge, 2023)

Tamashii Blue – After walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, refueling on ramen, wings (I told you they're my favorites), and spring rolls were a no-brainer. Tamashii Blue did not disappoint in the slightest.

TECH 

Headphones – I bought these for Phil as an anniversary gift, but like most tech in this household, it's a shared purchase between us. I love the noise reduction and the ability to tap the side to pause and play music. Other than the on/off button being really small, no notes.

Obsessed isn’t even the word. Straight smitten. (Boston, 2023)

Turo – Phil surprised me with a candy red Wrangler with removable top for our trip to Acadia. Wranglers are just so damn aesthetically pleasing to me, so getting to drive one made my entire anniversary week. He rented it on Turo, which is essentially Airbnb for cars, and while I haven't browsed the app much, I am sure if you want to flex at your next event, there is likely an option there for you.

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES 

I can’t wait to wear this skirt with some high knee boots in the fall. (South Jersey, 2023)

Fatigue Skirt – Amazon can be hit or miss regarding clothes, but this skirt is of great quality and has an ultra-high slit. I added a tack to preserve some modesty—size up for a proper fit.

Portland Leather – I bought the Mini Mesa bag because I needed a quick solution for grab-and-go occasions. I used it throughout my two-week break, and it fits the essentials – keys, phone, wallet, etc. I shopped the almost perfect sale and received a bag that was damn near pristine in my eyes—the first of many purchases from them.

Slinky30 Black by Steve Madden – I've always wanted this classic 90's icon, and now that it's in my closet, I don't have enough places to wear it to. Beware of the slippery sole, but other than that, you're walking on a cloud.

READS

Raising Myles – Weekly love notes from father to son. When I'm not laughing, I am bordering on tears. You don't need to be a parent to enjoy this raw and heartwarming perspective.  

White Teeth by Zadie Smith – I love a novel that cuts across cultures and generations. I'm almost done with this behemoth tale and can't wait to share a review with you all.

LISTEN 

Utopia – Travis Scott's latest drop is full of bangers. You know you're doing something right when you get Beyoncé to feature on a song.

Luv U Better by Maiya The Don – The Brooklyn rapper sped up the original title by Mary J Blige for a high-energy bop and delivered early 2000 visuals in the video. I stan *chef kiss*

WATCH 

How to Get Away With Murder – I'm giving this original series by Shonda Rhimes a go again and learning a lot about criminal law along the way. I didn't watch past season 2 when it aired several years ago, and it seems each suspense-filled episode has me yelling "objection" at the screen. (Netflix)

Street Foods USA – Heartwarming stories and drool-worthy plates demonstrate that the best food isn't always laid out on a white tablecloth. Excuse me as I book a flight to each city featured in Season 1. (Netflix)

Invincible: Atom Eve – In the premiere season of the adult animated series, viewers follow along as Mark (Invincible) goes through the early pains of coming into his superpowers in the shadow of his father, Omni Man - the world's most powerful hero. In this second season, which serves as a prequel to the first, we get the origin story of Samantha Eve Wilkins (Atom Eve), who can manipulate matter at the subatomic level. (Amazon Prime)