Each month this year seems busier than the last and July 2026 is no exception. Celebrating the 250^th birthday of the United States began the month auspiciously. Traveling out of the country for the first time since the pandemic was eye-opening with the huge changes streamlining the Customs process. Finally, news of twin girls arriving after the first of the year makes this grandma feel like she is on top of the world.

While only two book reviews were posted, a plethora of book reviews are in the pipeline. Expect an eclectic selection to pop up through August. Everything from action/suspense and murder to coming of age. Most of the authors are new to me but all successful. So many authors and not enough time to read.

July 2026 on the High Plains continued to be hot and dry. Even a dry heat is uncomfortable once you hit triple digits. As a result, the veggies in the garden struggle to survive. Stunted tomatoes and tomatillos look great compared to the eggplant and cucumbers which barely flower.

In contrast, the fruit trees and bushes ripened early and they did not taste as sweet as usual. The smaller yield became even smaller due to birds taking more than usual. The timing of the spring frosts reduced the amount of natural food in the form of chokecherries and mulberries. Both varieties produced little to no fruit.

Highlighting the month was the Zonta International Convention in Vancouver, Canada. Both the companionship and the climate revived my heat-battered spirits. Good food and good conversations made the trip to Vancouver memorable.

The final day of the month proves to be sensational. News of more granddaughters started the day off right. Twins are a blessing. The last pair born into the family enter high school in the fall. So, it is certainly time for double trouble!

Entertaining long-time friends will end the day/month sweetly. Staying close to friends and family aids longevity. Enjoy each and every day!