theSkimm - Daily Skimm Weekend: Hello, it’s me

...in your summer travel plans: long delays, lots of lost baggage, and navigating a new variant. So be sure to pack light.

…in your wardrobe: Barbiecore. Life in plastic, it’s fantastic.

…in your watchlist: So many summer movies and shows. First up, a new docuseries exploring the off-the-runway dark side of Victoria’s Secret. Featuring malls, Angels, and ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

...in your group chat: The hype around “Where the Crawdads Sing.” Which is once again raising questions about the author. And the real-life crime that maybe inspired the story.

Here's a look at the reads we’ve saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…

A Hookup App for the Emotionally Mature…a deep dive into an open-minded dating app that really isn’t about dating. 

He Had a Dark Secret. It Changed His Best Friend’s Life…how two men met in a homeless shelter and forged a defining bond.

The Vasectomy Influencers…post-Roe, these men are making the cut.

Downtime doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Here’s one idea for making the most of your weekend.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream. That’ll especially be the case tomorrow, July 17, aka National Ice Cream Day. So if you’re looking for a cool way to celebrate, here’s the scoop:

There’s no way to go wrong with a cone (or two) from your fave neighborhood spot — or a store-bought pint, for that matter. But this creamy, dreamy dessert is perhaps even more delightful when you make it from scratch. Whether you want something classic (think: chocolate, vanilla, mint chip) or creative (think: coffee cardamom, brown sugar, matcha coconut), all you need are a few ingredients, a sprinkle of patience, and (maybe) some arm power. Of course, if that sounds appealing but a bit ambitious, you could also bust out an ice cream maker.

Now, depending on how much you make (pro tip: you’ll want extra), you may have leftovers of your glorious concoction. And thankfully, there are plenty of ways to make the most of it. You could use it as the base for the ultimate ice cream sundae. You could sandwich it between chocolate chip cookies, waffles, or brownies. You could drown a scoop in a shot of espresso to create an affogato. You could even enhance the next-day eating experience with a spritz of edible perfume…really.

Whatever you choose, this Sundae is practically guaranteed to be sweet and not scary.

The midterm elections have a big impact on the policies that affect our day-to-day lives. So we’re here to help you Skimm Your Ballot. And Skimm what’s going on next week...

State of Play: On Tuesday, July 19, there are primary elections in Maryland (Senate, House, Governor).

The Talker: Yes, there are Senate and House seats up for grabs. But the race for governor is likely to get most of the attention. That’s because Maryland is a deeply blue state with a Republican governor (hi, Larry Hogan). Who, due to term limits, can’t run for reelection. Now, 10 Dems are fighting for the party’s nomination. And the chance to take back the governor’s office.

PS: The results of these elections are up to the voters. Click here to learn more about how to make your vote count.

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Products for anyone who hates being hot. If you're currently avoiding the outdoors because it's too darn steamy, we feel ya. Here's what you need to successfully battle heat.

2. Water bottles for every situation. From insulated options to glass to shatterproof bottles for kids, we rounded up our faves to help you stay hydrated and your drinks stay ice cold. You're welcome.

3. How to keep your nails healthy at an affordable price. Your hands are busy. Help them look their best with nontoxic polish, a manicure kit, and more.

More Skimm, more knowledge. Here’s what else we covered this week…

• State Supreme Courts, Skimm’d 

• Key takeaways from the Jan 6 hearings if you haven’t had time to watch

• Here’s what happens when abortions become illegal

• We texted with Jenny Slate about karaoke, cocktails, and “Marcel the Shell”

Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...

The 2022 MLB draft begins. See who hits it out of the park. And who strikes out.

theSkimm’s 10th birthday.

The 2022 ESPY Awards. Cheer for your favorite athletes. And the year’s best sports moments.

Step into your favorite universe, San Diego Comic-Con is starting.

PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.

Get 'em while they’re hot. Up to 20% off some of our fave self-care staples, gifts, and more with our exclusive discounts? You bet. Log in or join theSkimm Loyalty Program to get access today.