Monthly Favorites: May 2016 – Your Guide to Summer Essentials and More!
Hello, dear friends and fellow enthusiasts! As the delightful month of May draws to a close, it’s time once again to unveil my carefully curated list of Monthly Favorites! This recurring series is where I excitedly share the products, tools, and experiences that have truly captured my attention and brought joy into my life over the past few weeks.
In my dedicated Monthly Favorites series, I dive deep into my current obsessions, ranging from delectable food products and essential kitchen items to captivating home decor finds and even beauty must-haves. If you’re new here, you can catch up on my inaugural post, Monthly Favorites: April 2016, right here. I always cherish hearing from you, so if you’ve recently stumbled upon a product or item that you absolutely adore, please don’t hesitate to share your discoveries in the comment section below! I’m constantly on the lookout for new treasures to explore and feature.
This month, the theme is undoubtedly ‘summer’ – a vibrant celebration of sunshine, outdoor cooking, and memory-making moments. You can already see the inspiration in our main photo, with its lush, green grass bathed in the warm glow of a sunset. We’ll be exploring an array of summer-centric foods, ingenious tools designed to make your seasonal preparations easier and more enjoyable, and of course, a touch of non-food magic with some delightful makeup and planning essentials. Get ready to embrace the warmth and fun of summer with these fantastic finds!
1. Thermapen from Thermoworks – The Ultimate Grilling Companion
Without a doubt, the Thermapen from Thermoworks had to claim the top spot on this month’s favorites list. I am utterly obsessed with this kitchen marvel, especially as we transition into the glorious summer grilling and BBQ season! A reliable meat thermometer isn’t just a convenience; it’s an indispensable tool for achieving perfectly cooked meats and ensuring food safety, whether you’re roasting indoors or grilling outdoors. I initially received my Thermapen as a thoughtful Christmas gift from my aunt, and it quickly became a staple for perfecting dishes like my beloved Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken.
However, this past month, my husband has been practically living by the grill, and the Thermapen has been his constant, trusted companion. What makes it so exceptional? Its ingenious design means it springs to life the moment you extend the probe and powers down when you fold it back in – no cumbersome buttons or complicated menus to navigate. This intuitive operation is a game-changer when you’re juggling multiple tasks in the kitchen or by the grill. But its true brilliance lies in its speed and accuracy. The Thermapen delivers temperature readings within a mere 3 seconds, boasting an impressive accuracy of 0.7°F. It’s not just for meat; it can accurately measure the temperature of air (yes, even the ambient temperature in our house!), water, and any food it’s inserted into. Its water-resistant build adds another layer of practicality, making it robust enough to withstand the splashes and spills of a busy kitchen or outdoor cooking environment. Mine even came with a protective rubber boot, offering extra durability against drops and stains, and I keep it safe in its sleek black zippered case. While the Classic Super-Fast Thermapen, priced at $79 on the ThermoWorks website (plus a nominal shipping fee), might seem like a significant investment, countless reviews and my personal experience confirm that it is absolutely worth every penny. If you’re serious about cooking and have been searching for a top-tier thermometer that delivers on every promise, I wholeheartedly recommend the Thermapen – it will revolutionize your cooking.
2. Stonemill Essentials Spices (ALDI Brand) – Flavor Without Breaking the Bank
As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the kitchen, I go through spices at an astonishing rate. High-quality spices are the foundation of flavorful cooking, but the cost can quickly add up. That’s why I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on Stonemill Essentials Spices from ALDI. This brand has become my absolute go-to for basic, single-ingredient spices (I tend to mix my own blends). I’ve systematically collected nearly every spice available in this line at my local ALDI, and I can confidently say they are outstanding! What truly sets them apart is the incredible value they offer. Each generous container holds approximately 5.5 ounces of spice, yet they retail for an astonishing $0.99! This price point is simply unbeatable for the quality and quantity you receive.
Among my top picks, the garlic powder, cumin, and cinnamon stand out as particular favorites. The garlic powder delivers a robust, authentic garlic flavor, essential for countless savory dishes. Their cumin is aromatic and rich, perfect for anything from tacos to curries, while the cinnamon is wonderfully fragrant, ideal for both sweet and savory applications. These spices are consistently fresh, potent, and elevate every meal they grace. Opting for Stonemill Essentials allows me to stock my pantry with a wide array of spices without the usual financial strain, enabling more adventurous and flavorful cooking. If you’re a home cook who values both quality and affordability, a trip to ALDI to explore their Stonemill Essentials spice aisle is highly recommended – your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!
3. DeLallo Savoiardi Lady Fingers – An Italian Delight for Dessert and Coffee
Many of you might associate DeLallo primarily with their exquisite range of pasta products, a staple in many Italian-American pantries. Imagine my delightful surprise when I discovered that this esteemed Italian brand also crafts superb Savoiardi Lady Fingers! The moment I spotted these authentic Italian cookies at my local Kroger store, I knew they had to come home with me. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Made in Italy, these lady fingers boast an exceptional taste and delicate texture that truly transport you to the heart of Italian confectionery.
Their classic, lightly sweet flavor and airy yet firm structure make them incredibly versatile. They are, of course, the quintessential ingredient for crafting a perfect, melt-in-your-mouth tiramisu, soaking up espresso and mascarpone cream beautifully without becoming soggy. But their appeal extends far beyond this iconic dessert. I’ve found them to be an utterly divine accompaniment to my afternoon latte or cappuccino, offering a delicate crunch and subtle sweetness that complements the rich coffee flavors. They’re also fantastic served alongside fresh berries or a scoop of gelato for a simple yet elegant dessert. At a retail price of around $3.48 at Kroger stores and readily available on Amazon, these DeLallo Lady Fingers offer an authentic taste of Italy that’s both accessible and affordable. If you appreciate fine Italian baked goods or are planning to make a show-stopping tiramisu, these are an absolute must-try!
4. Le Creuset Platter – Elevating Summer Entertaining with Timeless Elegance
For roughly two years now, this stunning Le Creuset Platter has held a cherished spot in my kitchen cupboard, eagerly awaiting its seasonal debut. This magnificent 12-inch oval serving platter is crafted from durable stoneware, emblematic of Le Creuset’s renowned quality and timeless design. It comes in one of their most breathtaking shades, and indeed, my personal favorite: Caribbean – a vibrant, oceanic blue that instantly evokes images of sunny beaches and crystal-clear waters. Every summer, I delight in bringing this gorgeous piece out, knowing it signals the beginning of memorable gatherings and delicious meals.
Its versatility is truly remarkable. I use it to elegantly present an array of summer delights, from colorful fresh fruit medleys and sophisticated cheese and charcuterie boards to an assortment of appetizers. It’s also perfect for serving grilled favorites like my Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, or even setting out all the components for a fun s’mores bar! The moment this Caribbean blue platter graces our table, my family knows it’s time for a special, fun-filled summer dish. Beyond its practical use, it’s a statement piece, adding a touch of sophisticated charm to any occasion. Le Creuset’s stoneware is not only beautiful but also incredibly robust, making this platter a treasured item that promises years of enjoyment and entertaining. Currently, you can find this exquisite piece on Amazon for $39.99, an excellent investment for elevating your summer entertaining game.
5. OXO Pineapple Corer – Effortless Tropical Enjoyment
I first highlighted this ingenious tool in my Pineapple Chicken Kabobs recipe post, and I knew instantly that it deserved a dedicated spot in my Monthly Favorites. I’m talking about the OXO Good Grips Ratcheting Pineapple Slicer. With summer nearly upon us, fresh pineapples are a frequent and welcome addition to our meals, snacks, and desserts, and this tool truly transforms the sometimes-daunting task of preparing them into an absolute breeze. What makes it so exceptional is its dual functionality: it effortlessly cores the pineapple and simultaneously slices it into perfect rings! This means you can accomplish two jobs in a matter of minutes, significantly cutting down on prep time and making healthy snacking more accessible.
The ratcheting mechanism provides a comfortable and efficient grip, allowing you to easily twist through even the toughest pineapples. My children are always captivated watching my husband expertly core a pineapple and then pull out those beautiful, uniform rings – it’s practically a kitchen show! And the fun doesn’t stop there. Once the fruit is extracted, the hollowed-out pineapple shell becomes a fantastic, natural serving vessel. I love to fill ours with refreshing frozen slushies, creating a truly festive and delicious treat. Beyond slushies, it can be used for fruit salads, cocktails, or even as a decorative centerpiece. This corer simplifies fresh fruit enjoyment, encourages healthy eating, and adds a playful element to meal prep. Available on Amazon for just $9.99, the OXO Pineapple Corer is a small investment that yields huge returns in convenience and summer fun.
6. Glass Bottles and Jars – Sustainable Style for Summer Hydration and Entertaining
Summer inevitably brings with it an abundance of exciting food and drink opportunities, especially if you love to entertain, have active kids, or happen to be a food blogger – or all of the above! This season, my perennial favorites for both utility and aesthetics are classic glass Mason jars and charming small milk bottles. These versatile vessels truly shine during the warmer months. They’re perfect for holding colorful paper straws, making them easily accessible for guests, and are absolutely ideal for serving homemade lemonade, iced tea, or other refreshing beverages. For themed parties or festive gatherings, you can easily dress them up with colorful twine, rustic burlap, or patterned bandanas, adding a personalized touch to your décor.
Beyond drinks, Mason jars are fantastic for creative meal prep and serving. I regularly use them for individual salads, layered side dishes, vibrant frozen drinks, or healthy smoothies. Their clear glass allows for beautiful presentation, making even simple dishes look appealing, and their portability makes them great for picnics or packed lunches. The best part? They are incredibly fun to use and remarkably affordable! I typically stock up on mine at Michael’s, especially when they go on sale for less than a dollar apiece, making them an accessible and sustainable choice for every household. Embracing glass bottles and jars not only adds a touch of rustic charm to your summer spread but also encourages reusability and reduces waste, aligning with a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
7. Milani Baked Blush “Luminoso” – The Perfect Summer Glow
You know I couldn’t possibly compile a favorites list without including a makeup gem, and this month, it happens to be another fantastic product from Milani! This time, my beauty obsession is their Baked Blush in the iconic shade “Luminoso.” This blush is a true standout in my collection, and it’s the one I reach for almost daily during the summer months. What makes “Luminoso” so special is its utterly gorgeous, peachy-coral hue infused with a subtle, luminous shimmer. It imparts a natural, sun-kissed tan glow that perfectly complements summer skin, making you look effortlessly radiant without being overtly sparkly.
The “baked” formula of this blush is exceptional. It’s finely milled, delivering a silky-smooth application that blends seamlessly into the skin, avoiding any patchy or streaky appearance. Despite its luminous finish, it’s remarkably pigmented, meaning a little goes a long way, and it builds beautifully for a more intense flush if desired. The shimmer particles are incredibly fine, so instead of glitter, you get a beautiful, healthy sheen that mimics skin catching the light naturally. For its quality, generous pan size, and remarkable affordability, the Milani Baked Blush in “Luminoso” offers incredible value. It’s a universally flattering shade that brightens the complexion and instantly gives you that coveted summer glow. This blush is widely available at many drugstores and beauty retailers, as well as conveniently on Amazon. If you’re searching for that perfect summer blush, look no further – “Luminoso” is a definite winner!
8. Memory Planner from Heidi Swapp – Capturing Summer Memories in Style
The planner craze that swept through the stationery world this year completely captivated me, and as a longtime lover of beautiful notebooks, journals, and stationery, I was an easy convert. Among the myriad options available, the Memory Planner from Heidi Swapp has unequivocally emerged as my absolute favorite. While I do utilize another planner for my blog-related tasks, its design and functionality simply don’t compare to the joy and inspiration I find in Heidi’s creation. I’m already looking forward to acquiring her new planner for my everyday tasks once I’ve filled this one with cherished memories.
The unique brilliance of the Memory Planner lies in its dual purpose: it functions both as a highly organized daily planner and a beautiful diary for documenting life’s happenings. From the moment you hold it, its quality is evident. The padded cover, adorned with elegant gold-foiled polka dots on a pristine white background, feels luxurious and inviting. Inside, it accommodates 8 x 6-inch pages, forming a cohesive system supported by an extensive collection of add-ons – from decorative stickers and convenient journal pads to inspirational quote cards, clear photo pocket pages, and a variety of washi tapes. I began documenting our family’s memories in this planner back in March, and it has become a cherished daily ritual.
Each month is thoughtfully separated by a tab divider featuring an uplifting inspirational quote, setting a positive tone for the weeks ahead. Every page boasts Heidi’s signature black and white stripes along the edge, adding a stylish and cohesive design element throughout. The planner includes dedicated pages for monthly goals, a clear “month at a glance” overview, and perhaps my favorite feature: each week is thoughtfully spread across two pages, providing ample space for planning and journaling. The end of each month is marked by a “That was the best” page, offering a perfect opportunity to summarize and reflect on the past four weeks. I chose to include this planner in my Monthly Favorites precisely because summer is upon us, a season synonymous with creating an abundance of memories. Whether it’s exciting trips, spontaneous adventures, or simply the sunny, leisurely days at home, this planner offers an exquisite system to capture and preserve every precious moment. If you’re seeking a planner that doubles as a delightful memory-keeping system, I cannot recommend Heidi Swapp’s Memory Planner highly enough! It’s available at popular craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michael’s, as well as conveniently on Amazon.
9. Snapchat Flower Crown Filter – A Fun Way to Sparkle!
And just for a touch of lighthearted fun, I simply had to include my all-time favorite Snapchat filter: the charming flower crown! It’s one of those digital delights that instantly brightens your day and your selfies. Firstly, it applies a truly gorgeous, skin-smoothing glow that makes everyone look a little more refreshed and radiant. Who doesn’t love a subtle virtual touch-up? Secondly, and perhaps more humorously for me, the elegant flower crown perfectly frames and subtly minimizes my forehead, making for even more confidence-boosting selfies! It’s a playful little trick that adds a dash of whimsy and makes you feel instantly prettier.
Are you an active user on Snapchat? If so, I’d love for you to join me there! You can follow my behind-the-scenes adventures and daily musings by adding me: -> crunchycreamysw. Let’s connect and share some fun snaps together!
~~~~~
And there you have it – my delightful collection of Monthly Favorites for May! I sincerely hope this roundup has introduced you to some exciting new products to explore, or perhaps resonated with items you already cherish. It’s always a pleasure to share these finds with you, and I truly value your input. Don’t forget to let me know in the comments section below: what incredible products or experiences have you been absolutely obsessing over this month? I can’t wait to discover your latest loves!
Have a beautiful and joyful day, everyone!
~~~~
Ready for more inspiration? Check out my previous favorites: April Favorites
~~~~
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Should you choose to make a purchase through any of my Amazon links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running, and I am incredibly grateful. Thank you!