During the noon hour, it will officially become summer. Happy solstice and please join us on our list of things to do this season:

Wear a cross-body bag
Yup, we've been slow to adapt this trend, even though it would miraculously free up BOTH HANDS. This convertible Rebecca Minkoff Mac ($295, with optional chain link strap), which Ladyslipper (4940 France Av S, Mpls, 952-224-1900) is getting in a million colors is the way to go.

Eat Gelato, Italian-style
When you can't go to Rome, go to the alleys of 50th and France. Just in time for the solstice, Pandolfi (3904 West 50th St., Edina, 952-928-3000) opened in the alley of the local shopping district with Palazzolo's gelato. Grazie tanto!

Take a day trip to Stillwater
Our favorite quick getaway has a new hang out spot. We'll be heading over to the Chilkoot Cafe and Cyclery (826 4th St S, Stillwater, 651-342-0429). Our insider reports that the "meatloaf sandwich is ridiculous and the pastries are beautiful and equally as tasty." We're kind of excited by the mushroom lentil burger.

Go on a picnic
A little closer to home, we're totally going to take advantage of the order-a-picnic service Bread and Pickle (Lake Harriet, next to the Bandshell will have, starting any day now. For a D-I-Y options, this recipe looks amazing. Morels, asparagus and potatoes? If you go to the market, we'll whip it up for you.

Read at least one book
Our friends at Go Fug Yourself have surely penned the book of the summer. While "Spoiled" is billed as "young adult," we're engrossed with the label-name dropping on the first few pages and didn't want to wait for us to get our read on to tell you about it.

Stalk this guy
We will find you!



E-mail Endless Summer to your friends
Send Us Your Tips on the Twin Cities