The Sunday Column.

By: Alexis Shoats

Photographer: Cottonbro Studio, oyesters on ice and lemon wedges.

Ok, let's get the awkward part over with, shall we? I changed the name of the column, BUT don’t worry, I am not changing the content of the column. I will still be curating the perfect Sunday and leaving you with a list full of recommendations to usher in the perfect week. My main reason for changing the name of the column is to reflect its true meaning. I don’t want you to feel as though this is a list you have to check off or else your week will be thrown off. That’s not very realistic. I hope that you will take what you want and need from each article, then implement these pieces into your Sunday! That you will find a recipe, show, or experience that piques your curiosity and add it to your own Sunday routine. I hope what we discuss in this Sunday column will leave you with something to ponder going into the new week, and perhaps you will learn something new! 

With that being said, what is all this commotion concerning Autumn? We are fully in the swing of summer, and yet it's already autumn in stores? I am guilty of saying that I'm ready for autumn, mainly because I'm beyond ready for football and these heat waves are no joke; however, I'm a big proponent of living in the moment. So much of our lives is looking to the future and planning out our next steps, short and long-term goals!

So how do we stop ourselves from romanticizing the next season too early? Here are a few suggestions.

First, eat locally as well as produce that is currently in season. I find that when I shop in season, I follow recipes that reflect the season. From shopping at the farmers market to creating the most refreshing summer salad, the whole experience screams summer in the best way.

Second, I would suggest finishing up those pool or beach reads you have on your list. If you’re a mood reader like me, chances are, if you don’t read them now, you aren’t going to reach for them again until next year. There are about three weeks left of summer, plenty of time to begin or finish your most anticipated summer read. 

Lastly, if feasible, try to escape for a summer weekend trip. With Autumn right around the corner, I bet you are heading into a light PTO season at least until the holidays. Coming back from summer vacation, I know many of us are entering a busy season at work while also working towards accomplishing our quarter three and four goals, which means less play time. Take advantage of the warm weather, your PTO, and squeeze in one more trip. 

I hope your week is better than the last. 

Alexis Shoats 

Editor - In - Chief