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Time to read 14 min
Simple Suggestions for a Truly Connected Summertime
There’s a special type of insanity that arises from the churning, palpable chaos of three toddlers running around with four dogs while eight adults all try to ensure everyone is "happy and taken care of”–the kids, the dogs, and each other.
Doors burst open wildly followed by stampeding little feet. One wants a popsicle, now they all do. One wants to swing but only if you push and the smallest is insisting it’s pool time. Three dogs rush past the toddlers out the door towards the grassy marsh. I’m sure they’ll escape off to the neighbors or find something mischievous to get into! According to every dog anywhere, there’s a lot of “good stuff” along the water’s edge, ”Have you tried rolling in dead crab??”
I’m hustling alongside my sister to get dinner on the table, all while celebrating a milestone birthday: my Dad’s 70th. Wait, where’s the fourth dog!?
Smiles, giggles and cries, barks, music and BBQ smoke; and chirping bird song float on the breeze.Tiny bodies crash into knees, legs and waists, wrapping their arms around you asking for a favor, a hug, some attention, some food, or to show you something they drew. Everyone attends to a kid, a dog or dinner in an orchestra of movement.
It’s easy to place high expectations on events like this. There’s so much hope and anticipation wrapped into a milestone like a big birthday, graduation or wedding. An idea of perfection that is never technically met, though in a moment of reflection, it actually happens a thousand tiny times.
I caught a still frame in the action—a snapshot of life that vividly captured why days of warmth are life's precious jewels: My baby niece raced across green grass on chubby legs, grinning with joy. She was thrilled with her freedom and all the fun happening around her while the family reclined, chatting under the dappled light of a shade tree. The other nieces, hair blowing in the wind as they flew on swings, burst with delight. The turbulence of generational family mixed together like a wild brew under pressure, creating something so beautiful you couldn’t possibly imagine perfection could look like this: a little gem sparkling in the setting sun.
Every year, I joke with my husband that it feels like we exist in the long, cold of winter while summer rushes by in a blink. As I age, winter is fast becoming a favorite season but there’s something about the glow of warm rays kissing the ground and long summer days that just can’t be beat.
In a breath awaiting bliss, the shrill heat of the sun will try to sway you indoors, bugs nipping at your skin, but you persist because the sweltering wanes as the breeze comes to save you in the golden hours of the day. Sweet air fills your nose as you steal precious moments to host a meal outside or pluck a flower from the garden, time with family on the lawn, at the beach or in the boat or wherever the outside world calls you. They fleet with the heat and the sun; bound for shorter days that return much quicker than we anticipate their arrival.
These little jewels of summer remind us that true magic lies in the simple, shared moments with loved ones.
Today, I'm excited to share some tried-and-true ways to feel connected and grounded this season: through easy outdoor cooking, joyful hosting, and a few extra tips to sweeten your summer experience.
Table of Contents: Click the links below for easy access to each section of this blog post
With social media bombarding you with newly renovated homes and floral-graced tables staged for an elegant feast, it’s easy to think perfection is a prerequisite for hosting guests. After a very successful Pizza Party at my house, yes, with adult friends, where the only thing I made was guacamole for an appetizer, I can concur: that’s total BS.
Sure, I put on good tunes and lit a few candles (my new fav is Olivewood) but it's not fancy or formal that makes your life swell with joyful laughter and memorable evenings. It’s a warm and welcoming home filled with people you care about. A little food, some music to set the tone, a drink in hand, and pleasures like engaging conversation, a lively board game or time spent outside enjoying the evening air or a crackling bonfire–with s’mores, of course. These simple joys will fill your cup and theirs, too.
Simon Sinek, on his podcast "A Bit of Optimism," hosted former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who spoke thoughtfully on the "loneliness epidemic" After diving into the data, Dr. Murthy shared a profound realization: "The most important thing about having people over is the company. [...] So we just started inviting people over and saying, you know what, our place is a total mess, it's chaos [...] but just come over. [...] And you know what they said? They said thank you for having us over. Thank you for making it ok to come to a home that’s not totally spick-and-span because our home is the same way. And now we feel like it's ok to have people over."
Dr. Murthy's story illustrates a profound, yet simple point: true connection flourishes when we prioritize people over perfection.
Connecting isn’t hard; it just requires you to let go of formalities and perceived expectations. So call your friends and forget about the laundry on the floor or the mess in the kitchen. Have them over even if it’s a work day tomorrow because every day is “a work day tomorrow” or a “soccer game tomorrow” or insert your “life is busy” excuse here.
Don’t wait. Opportunity for summer connection, along with time, will pass either way so you may as well enjoy it more!
This dinner needs no recipe. If you have olive oil, some spices, a lemon, salt and pepper, you’re good to go! It can be done in the oven or on the grill. Easy-peasy.
Rub down salmon with olive oil and a generous portion of spices. Combos like rosemary, basil, parsley and garlic topped with some S&P taste great but honestly any spices will work so don’t overthink it. Pop it in the grill or oven until done. I like mine a little crispy on the outside (but not overdone in the middle) so I generally cook at high heat.
Party Tip: Cook a whole filet (yes, the entire super-big filet that’s uncut). It's easy and will feed 6-8 people.
Grab a few bunches of asparagus, trim off the tough bottoms and place them on a sheet pan. Drizzle it with olive oil, a healthy amount of lemon juice, salt, pepper and toss to coat. Place the sheet on the grill or in your oven to cook. A little char is good! Don’t worry if you see a few brown or near black spots. The asparagus will roast, the lemon juice will caramelize and it will taste divine!
Chef Note: Don’t be tempted to add spices or garlic to this. It doesn’t need it plus they’ll burn, becoming bitter, before the asparagus is done.
Buying Tip: I love the asparagus at Charlann Farm in Lower Makefield Township (about 2 miles-ish outside of Yardley). It’s thin, sweet and has great flavor. If you have access to a farmer’s market or local asparagus in season, it's a win every time! At the grocery store, I try to pick the bunch with the thinnest stalks.
Wrap your sweet potatoes in aluminum foil and pop them in the grill or oven. A well done and slightly charred sweet potato is amazing so let these babies cook for a nice, long time and you’ll be rewarded with a ton of flavor. Top with greek yogurt, butter or whatever you like for an easy, healthy starch.
Summer is grill season, fresh bright salads and easy sides like corn on the cob. At Krysset, we’re stocked with essentials that make meal prep a breeze.
Our new line of spice blends (Pennsylvania based and family owned!) and jams give you chef inspired flavors and add nearly no time to your prep!
Mains: Rub the Ranch blend on chicken or toss in ground turkey for healthy “cool ranch” tacos. Dredge steak in the appropriately named Steakhouse blend and use the Garden Citrus blend to spice up fish or portobello mushroom caps. Top off burgers or pork with our new Onion Jam for an instant flavor boost!
Sides and Apps: Use Cara Cara Marmalade to make a citrus vinaigrette for your summer garden salads and pair cheeses with Fig Jam for more time relaxing and less time prepping! Need an easy yet tasty veggie? Try our Chipotle Honey spice blend on grilled corn with a dash of lime for an elote inspired twist.
If you’re not familiar with the dreamy, sweeping guitar tones and soothing vocals of the Texas-based, Thai-rock inspired band Khurangbin, you’re about to be transported to summertime bliss.
My husband and I discovered the gem Two Fish and an Elephant–one of my favorite Khurangbin tracks–while at Krysset's next door neighbors, Vault Brewing Co., a few years back. The band has been a regular in our house ever since. Especially in the warmer months, their flowing grooves floating in the sultry breeze of a summer evening.
The ultimate surf-sun-chill ensemble, Khurangbin has lots of albums, EPs and singles to explore. To start, check out the albums Con Todo El Mundo, The Universe Smiles Upon You and the not-to-be-missed EPs Texas Sun and Texas Moon.
A few days ago, Krysset’s Shop Manager, Michael, shared a quote that truly hit home: "Don't forget to include you in your list of things to take care of." Sitting here on my porch writing this, with my dogs snoozing beside me, I'm genuinely shocked it's already seven months into the year. I had plans, goals, and things I wanted to do–some completed, others forgotten, and many simply left undone. Sound familiar?
Time often moves more quickly than we dare to acknowledge, and we often place ourselves last on the list of priorities. When was the last time you truly did something just for you? Personally, I can barely recall. (While I've started getting regular facials at Anej Skin Studio in downtown Yardley–highly recommended!–that's more for my rosacea than pure "me time”.)
Maybe you're feeling the same way? Then let this be a wakeup call for us both to put ourselves on the list!
I decided to round up a few things I felt could help a first-born-daughter, type-A-business-owner, wife, and chronic people-pleaser slow down, breathe deep, and truly connect with herself. (Full disclosure: this is me, by the way. What describes you best? I'd bet people-pleaser is in there, isn’t it?)
Coach's Note: As someone who’s been a coach, I know you'll read this and think "someday, but not now." Last year my own coach challenged me to take two hours for myself. I put it off for weeks choosing to prioritize literally anything else. When I did finally take the time, it was clear why she asked me to do this. I needed it–badly. Chances are you do, too.
This summer, your challenge is to put yourself first. Explore new ways to connect deeply with yourself—no pressure to perform, produce, or even create a habit. Just time dedicated to you, enjoying something new, a nap, whatever you need.
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Let us help you create a little self care ritual at home
Recently, a new public access point to the Delaware River opened in Yardley Borough. Local officials were excited about it, posting pictures of council and community members smiling next to the new bench, the satin river floating lazily behind them.
I love living and working in a Delaware river town so I walked down to the new access point (it's across River Road from the Yardley Inn, to the right of the Veteran's Memorial) to sit and enjoy the view. If you haven’t been to the new river side locale, add it to the list next time you’re in town.
This summer is filled with all kinds of ways to enjoy our beautiful community. Break the routine, get out and try something new. Invite your friends, too!
Here are a few of my favorites I think you’ll love, too.
1. Music Off Main
Every Saturday, and a few Sundays, throughout the entire summer live music is hosted at Buttonwood Park (adjacent to Panna Gelateria, the public parking lot and the Fine Wine and Liquor in downtown Yardley.) This local business sponsored and volunteer run event is a local gem with a variety of music from R&B to Jazz to Rock to Folk and more! Follow @Experience_Yardley for more info and updates.
2. Run, Walk or Bike the DRNC
Whether you’re visiting Yardley for the first time or you live locally, a visit to the 69 mile long canalside towpath is a must. It’s easily accessible from downtown Yardley (there are several additional access points with parking nearby, as well) via East Afton Ave just one block from Main Street.
3. Lake Afton
Grab a snack at Krysset or a coffee across the street at Pretty Bird and stroll over to Lake Afton. It's a beautiful spot to enjoy the view of the lake and our historical teeny-tiny Old Library, feed the ducks and geese (pellets can be bought via a coin operated feeder) or even fish!
4. Vault Events
Vault Brewing Company holds live music weekly in addition to several events over the summer, including a craft faire, pig roast with car show and beer fest. Follow @VaultBrewingCo for more information or visit their website .
5. Comedy at FZ Works
Thursdays in town just got more fun! Our local co-working space, FZ Works, is hosting regular sold-out comedy nights! Neighbors and friends flock to town, grab some bites before the show and walk upstairs to the second floor FZ Works, located on Main Street directly across from Krysset for a night of laughs. If you have never been, it's a must! Follow @FZworks_Yardley on instagram or check their website for more info.
6. Summer at Charlann Farms
Charlann Farms (located about 2 miles from Yardley Borough in Lower Makefield Township) is the place to go for amazing fresh produce all week long and with events like Funny Farm comedy nights, yearly corn festival and farm to table dinners it's a great place to visit this summer.
7. Saturday Morning Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday morning from 9am to 12pm Buttonwood Park buzzes with vendors selling everything from carrots, peaches and swiss chard to dog treats, cookies, and bread. Come ready to stock up and plan some easy-to-grill dinners with local produce from Yardley Farmer's Market.
8. Cold Sweet Treats Tour in Yardley for a Hot Day
Yardley is home to several delicious places serving sweet cold treats all summer! Each is amazing in their own unique way so why not try them all? In Yardley Borough: 1) Gelato at Panna Gelateria & Bakery 2) Water Ice and Soft Serve at the iconic Yardley Ice House 3) Milkshakes at Pretty Burger In Lower Makefield Township: 4) Smoothies & Chia Pudding at Smoothie & Co 5) Homemade Ice Cream at Uncle Dave’s (Shady Brook Farm)
9. Girl’s Day in Yardley Borough
There’s more to do in Yardley now than ever and we’re here for it! Grab your friends, your fav coworkers and neighbors for a fun afternoon out in the boro. Grab a pedicure at one of Yardley’s many nail salons (our new neighbors on E. Afton Ave, Soft Walk Academy, just opened) or get a new piercing at Boro Piercing. Stroll the boro to our locally owned shops: Krysset, Yardley Refillery, Wildflower Valley, Occasional Flowers and Commonplace Reader. Afterwards, grab lunch at Vault, Canal Street Grill or Charcoal BYOB with a great view of the Delaware river.
10. Go Out on a Weeknight
My husband and I always say you don’t even need to “make plans” in Yardley, just go out when the weather is good and everyone’s there. Stop at Pretty Burger on Wednesday, sit on the front porch and wave to all your friends. Go out to Yardley General for a cocktail on a random Thursday or grab a beer at Vault Brewing and sit on the porch. It's just a good vibe in town right now and you don’t need to do it on a Saturday to make it fun. Oh, and sit at the bar if you can or hang outside. You’ll meet and see more people that way!
New to Krysset? Come visit us in our beautiful Bucks County location in Yardley Borough!
Ready for a delightful day?
Come discover downtown Yardley, PA, where charming streets and the peaceful canal set a picturesque scene alongside the Delaware river. Tucked right in the heart of it all is our shop Krysset Artisan Boutique & Market, your go-to for truly unique, handmade goodies from independent artists and makers. It's the perfect spot to snag a one-of-a-kind find and soak up some small-town charm!
The Author: Jessica Gebauer
Hi, I'm Jess and I pour my heart into everything we do here at Krysset! My deepest joy is creating a warm and thoughtful shopping experience for you–one where every unique piece feels truly special. As a former jeweler, I lovingly hand-pick each beautiful item from incredible independent artists, driven by my passion for supporting makers, artists, and small businesses. I truly hope you find something meaningful and unique that speaks to you.
When you shop small, you're investing in a community, culture, and way of life. At Krysset, you're a Very Impactful Partner because together our impact reaches far and wide. As a VIP, stay connected, keep tabs on new products, makers, in shop events and more!
