Two words: Heat Wave. I don’t know if you’ve been dealing with the hot weather in your city, but it seems like these crazy temps are taking over!
I love going down to the beach to stay cool, but I’m not always one to actually get in the water (I’m the one reading in my chair!). So, trying to keep the sun’s warmth at bay is always a challenge.
And my son’s baseball games? Those can take hot to a whole new level during the summer months.
No, I can’t control the sun or the weather… but I do have some tricks up my sleeve to beat the heat! Whether you’re in your home, on vacation or just trying to get ready in the morning, you can find them all below.
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My Top Cooling Accessories
You might have an umbrella and a good water bottle, but here are some other unique things I like to use to stay cool.
I love those little handheld fans that you can use on the go, but they aren’t always fun to carry around. This personal fan actually sits around your neck so you don’t have to worry about holding something all day long!
But if you’re looking for something a little more traditional, there are also these Misting Necklace Fans which come in some cute colors and can be hung around your neck.
I swear by these cooling towels on hot summer days when Trevor has double-header baseball games… they’re a lifesaver! Plus, they’re great for the whole family and easy to wash.
This neat invention is called the Spleash and it was actually created by one of my high school friends! Just attach it to your favorite leash and give your finger a quick squeeze whenever your pet needs a quick drink.
A great way to keep your pooch cool and hydrated on hot summer walks!
Beauty Finds To Stay Cool
Keeping cool can start when your day begins. Below, you’ll find some beauty products that I recommend if you’re dealing with the summer heat.
Before you head out for the day, good sunscreen is a must.
I like this Supergoop sunscreen because it’s sheer, lightweight and it doesn’t go on greasy. I also like that it’s unscented so it doesn’t take away from any perfume or body spray I’m wearing.
And for people who want an all-natural option, Supergoop also has this mineral lotion that’s full of clean ingredients like blueberry extract, coconut extract and winter cherry.
You’ll also want to make sure you have a deodorant that will protect you against nasty odors throughout the day. I can’t get enough of this lavender set from The Skinny. It smells so good!
And if you decide to put on makeup before stepping out of your house, you’ll need to take some extra steps to avoid the dreaded makeup meltdown…
I showed this Fix It Forget It Setting Spray to you during one of my FB Live events. It’s truly the best!
Don’t forget to pack this Evian Moisturizing Facial Spray. It’s made exclusively with natural mineral water but it provides you with a refreshing and moisturizing little mist on the go.
If you accidentally get burned after your day outside (or you just need some extra moisture), nothing soothes skin better than this Peak 10 whipped body butter. Since it’s filled with antioxidants and plant oils, it completely hydrates after a long day in the sun.
Did I mention you can keep all of these items in a mini beauty fridge? Yep, they make these, especially for your skincare items! That way, you can feel cool and refreshed from the moment you get ready in the morning.
The best way for me to feel clean after a hot, sweaty day outside? A shower with Fresh Cream Shower Gel and a spritz of Fresh Cream Spray when I’m dried off. Heaven!
Clothing and More To Beat The Heat
Whether you’re inside or out, I’m sure some of these fashion finds will leave you feeling nice and cool this summer.
These are my absolute favorite pajamas from Soma and they’re just perfect for summer. They’re actually called “cool nights” and I’ll be one to agree that they actually keep me cooler when I’m sleeping!
When you’re out and about, there’s no better way to make the sun a littler more bearable than with a hat. This Straw Hat is also pretty stylish if you ask me. I can see it pairing perfectly with a long maxi dress.
I’m not much of a shorts girl, but I love the look of this NYDJ denim skirt. You all know how much I adore this brand (after all, it’s where all my jeans come from!). Plus, it’s on sale!
Oh, and don’t forget to pair it with some cute summer sandals. You can find some of my picks HERE.
Cooling Items For Your Home Stay Cool
Just because you’re relaxing at home doesn’t mean the temps won’t get to you. Here are some cooling essentials you can use indoors.
The Scott Living Tencel Sheet Set is a must if you’re a hot sleeper. The blend of tencel and cotton actually keeps you cooler in the summer than regular cotton sheets. So, you can sleep soundly no matter what the thermometer says!
After a good night’s rest, you can stay cool during your work day with this fan for your home desk. It’s super compact so it won’t get in the way, and the little fans can be tilted to ensure you get the best breezy angle.
Not only does this Dyson find keep you cool, but it will also keep your air clean!
The Dyson air purifier and fan is a bit of an investment, but it has some pretty neat features. It captures over 99% of particles in the air. Plus, it’s a smart device that you can control from your phone (meaning you can turn it on before you get home!).
Heading into the backyard? You’ll want to snag this mini inflatable pool. It might look like it’s just for kids, but this find is actually for adults as well. Summer fun for everyone!
But before you head outside, make sure to whip up a batch of ice cream with this easy-to-use ice cream maker. It comes with everything you’ll need to make a tasty warm-weather treat.
Recipes To Help You Stay Cool
Summer is all about good food… right? Whether it’s for a barbecue or for a relaxing day on the porch, you’ll love some of these refreshing recipes.
Sangria
Serving up sangria is a great way to end a long, hot week.
White Wine Sangria
White Wine Sangria is a delicious cocktail to serve friends and guests when you’re entertaining. Other combinations of fruits or berries can be used in these sangrias such as peaches, plums, or apples, according to the season.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of your favorite white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay work well)
- 1 (48 oz) bottle of lemonade
- 6 oz Lemoncello liqueur
- 1 cup fresh lemon slices
- 1 cup fresh lime slices
- 1 cup fresh star fruit slices
Instructions
Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
I find it super refreshing and it’s a great way to make use of that “almost overripe” fruit that I always hate tossing.
Not only is it really easy to make, but it also looks pretty in a pitcher during a summer get-together!
Iced Tea Three Ways
I recently discovered a new bottled iced tea brand and I’m obsessed… but I’ve always been a tea girl so it comes as no surprise!
Iced Tea 3 Ways
While I love offering my guests a glass of refreshing iced tea, I have to say that I am a big fan of it myself. Sometimes you get tired of drinking the same classic drinks. These colorful recipes offer a quick and interesting twist.
Ingredients
Red Berry Iced Tea
- 6 red herb tea bags
- 4 oz fresh raspberries
- 8 oz fresh strawberries
- 8 oz fresh watermelon
Mojito Iced Green Tea
- 6 green tea bags
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 2 limes, sliced
- 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves
- 1 small bunch mint leaves
Orange Chai Iced Tea
- 6 chai tea bags
- 24 oz orange juice
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 2 oranges, sliced
Instructions
Red Berry Iced Tea
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes (more or less depending on the strength of tea desired) and then remove the tea bags from the water. If desired, sweeten with sugar, honey, or agave syrup, to taste.
- Pour the tea into a pitcher, refrigerate until chilled, and add the fresh fruit when ready to serve.
- Prepare the green tea, as per above instructions.
- Gently crush the basil and mint leaves in a mortar and pestle or a small ceramic bowl with the back of a wooden spoon, to release the fresh oils. Set aside the muddled herbs.
- Pour the green tea into a pitcher, refrigerate until chilled, and then add lemon slices, lime slices, and the muddled fresh herbs. Serve chilled.
- Prepare the chai tea, as per above instructions.
- Bring the orange juice to a gentle simmer in a sauce pot. Place the cinnamon sticks into the orange juice, turn off the heat, and let steep for 5 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks from the orange juice. Combine the chai tea and the flavored orange juice, and then refrigerate until chilled. Add the orange slices and serve chilled.
Mojito Iced Green Tea
Orange Chai Iced Tea
With that said, I love making my own at home and putting a special twist on it. HERE, you’ll find a red berry iced tea, a mojito green tea version, and orange chai tea.
Shrimp Salsa
The last thing you want on a hot day is a hefty and overwhelming appetizer. That’s why I like to serve my shrimp salsa instead!
Shrimp Salsa
I love ANY type of salsa….from traditional and spicy to fruity and flavorful. This is one of those recipes that is just packed with so many layers of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 & 1/2 cup tomatoes, seeded and diced (I love to combine red and yellow for this!)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 & 1/2 lb large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the first six ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.
- Cut the shrimp into bite-size pieces. Add the shrimp to the salsa mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Chill the salsa for about an hour and then serve with tortilla chips.
It’s super light, but just because it’s refreshing doesn’t mean it lacks in the flavor department!
Thai Cucumber Salad
There’s also my Thai Cucumber salad which is lightly coated in dressing that packs a punch.
Thai Cucumber Salad with Peanuts
I don’t make Thai food often, but when I do I try to make it flavorful and unique.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1/2 red onion, very thinly sliced
- 2 large English cucumbers, halved lengthwise, seeded and sliced crosswise 1/2-inch thick
- 1/3 cup packed chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (I loved using Whitley’s Thai Sweet Chile seasoned peanuts)
- 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup lime juice (fresh is best, but bottled works)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Place onions in a small bowl of cold water. Let sit for 10 minutes, then drain well and dry with a paper towel. This helps to cut the pungent bite of the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained red onions, cucumbers, cilantro, peanuts and jalapeño pepper. Set aside.
- Make the dressing by combining the lime juice, oil, fish sauce, sugar and garlic in a small bowl and whisk until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to combine. Taste and add salt if necessary.
And while the recipe doesn’t call for it, I like to add peanuts for an added crunch!
Which ones? I always go for Whitley’s Thai Sweet Chili peanuts.
Lemon Blueberry Pie
To end a hot day, sit down with a slice of this no-bake lemon blueberry pie.
No Bake Lemon Blueberry Pie
This easy no bake lemon blueberry pie is the perfect way to add a little refreshment to a hot summer weekend.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (12 oz) bag white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/3 cup fresh blueberries
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Heat the chips and cream in saucepan over low heat until chips are thoroughly melted. (Don’t use too high heat or you will scald the cream and/or burn chips). Stir as chips are melting.
- Once melted and stirred together, remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to slightly cool. Then add sour cream, lemon juice and lemon zest to creamy mixture.
- Stir until nicely blended. I often use I whisk for this to better incorporate the sour cream into the mixture.
- Pour mixture into graham cracker crust.
- Evenly distribute blueberries over the top of pie (they should slightly sink into the pie but won’t be completely submerged).
- This pie is best if refrigerated overnight, but if you can’t wait, let it sit for at least 8 hours in refrigerator.
- Top with whipped cream and extra berries if desired.
You’ll get sweetness in every bit thanks to the white chocolate chips. But the tart lemon balances it out just perfectly!
How do you plan on staying cool this summer? I hope some of my ideas are helpful! We’re in this together!
From my home to yours,
Jill
