What is your favorite day of the week? Mine, without question is Sunday. There is something so sweet about Sundays; going to church, enjoying brunch, and preparing mentally and physically for the week to come. While most Sundays are designated as ‘laundry days’ in my house, every once in a while when Kuinise has the day off we really try to maximize our favorite day in our beautiful city! The possibilities are endless when it comes to weekend activities, but one of my (and my wallet’s) favorites, is visiting the Farmers market. The ‘Buy Local’ movement is huge right now, and for good reason! Buying from local vendors isn’t just trendy, it’s a sustainable choice that fuels the goods & services that are cultivated right there in your community. I also use the Farmers Market as an opportunity to try new things that I wouldn’t otherwise pick up on a routine run to the grocery store. I love browsing the assortment of fresh produce, seasonal flowers, and unique crafts.

BULLHEAD SUNFLOWER SHORTS (old) |  OLD NAVY HENLEY MUSTARD YELLOW RIBBED TANK  | WHITE CHUCK TAYLOR CONVERSE 

I love these farmers market sunflowers! $3 for a bunch of 5 long stemmed sunnies!

If they are purple, are they still called ‘green beans’?

I’m in love with cheese, so naturally I was drawn to this booth where I was able to sample several different varieties.

Kuinise and I went home with some fresh local blooms, berries, granola, and artisan cheeses which we used as components for a picnic later that day.

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES

Is there anything that screams summer more than a picnic? If you are looking for an inexpensive way to spend your day, going on a picnic is a fun and creative way to enjoy the gorgeous outdoors with some great company. Kuinise and I loaded up our picnic basket with salami, prosciutto, an array of cheeses, a refreshing berry parfait (complete with organic vanilla bean yogurt, granola, raspberries and blueberries all locally sourced!), macaroons, and a delectable pinot noir. We ventured out to the Rose Gardens at Balboa park and found the perfect secluded location to indulge in our romantic summer feast. One great thing about Balboa park, is there are so many scenic areas to have picnic or enjoy an afternoon walk. While this was one of the more popular spots with lots of passersby, we were able to cozy up in a private space where we remained relatively undisturbed.

If you do get the chance to visit the Rose Gardens at Balboa Park while the roses are in bloom, I sincerely recommend it. This garden flaunts over 100 varieties of roses in every color imaginable and is truly breathtaking. The best part about it, is that it’s totally free!

The inner ‘Steel Magnolia’ in me, jumps at the chance to get dolled up in a dainty summer dress with a giant (but wildly appropriate) hat. I stumbled upon this adorable garden floral fit ‘n flare dress at Old Navy. They carry several cute prints for summer, and based on how well this fit, I was tempted to buy them all. The fabric is light– perfect for warmer temperatures, but does tend to wrinkle easily which was the only drawback. There is elastic in the back for comfort, but a zipper on the side for fit. The best of both worlds as far as I’m concerned! You can still purchase this dress (on sale!) in other colors and patterns.

I am anxiously awaiting more days like this in the coming summer months! What are some of your summer bucket list ideas?