July Recap 2020

The beginning of July was cool and cloudy. I call that perfect summer weather. However, it began to warm up by mid-July but it was still comfortable, in the mid 70's. Still, not bad at all. But, by the end of July it had definitely warmed up, in the mid 80's. You'd be surprised, not many people realize that WA can get pretty hot in the summer, sometimes 90+ degrees. The good part is that the hot weather doesn't last too long.

This was my book haul for the month of July. I definitely spot a theme, American history. It's important we know about our country's past, both good and bad. 

It's always a good idea to bring a book along with me when we go on outings. Although I can't read in the car because I get carsick there's still a chance that there will be some quiet time where I can get some reading done.

And now that I've finished reading this book, I can say that I did enjoy it. It was a cozy read for me. I gave it four stars on Goodreads.

I think it's cute when cats spread their toe beans to groom them, it makes me giggle. And how they bite their back claws to remove the old sheath is interesting to see. 

While Jacob worked from home and Riley being on summer break, I have to find ways to keep him entertained so on this day I decided to take Riley on a short hike. The trail was partially shaded. Thankfully, it was a fresh day so it made for a pleasant hike.

After pulling weeds in the backyard during the morning and after my second shower Riley and I got cozy and watched The Goonies together. I love this movie. I've been watching it since I was a kid. 

Every once in a while, I'll make onion dip. We both enjoy this treat. We ate it out in our front porch while enjoying a nice breeze.

Other times, when I need time alone I either go book shopping or I get a few things for the house. How cute is that dish towel?  I love it!

I bought Riley a book on the Attributes of God. After each exercise it gave a verse to look up and study. I also read him the Case for Grace for Kids by Lee Strobel. 

He also had karate twice a week in the evening which was good. It gave us all something to look forward to, especially during those days when we stayed home all day. 

Weekday park visits were a regular rotation during summer break as well.

I sometimes came along, sought the shade and read. 

In this home I had modular bookshelves. So, naturally I needed bookends to prevent books from falling over to the ground. I got so excited when they arrived.

What I also do to decompress is journal. I either read my Bible or a devotional or a book and journal things that stand out to me. This activity is very calming to me plus it has its health benefits as well. Writing on paper as opposed to typing is better for eye coordination and exercises your brain by improving memory. I truly do love doing this plus I get so engrossed in writing/journaling that I don't notice how fast time passes by.

And summer is the perfect time to make ceviche. Jacob often craves it, so I make it several times a year. 

I am as contented being a homebody as I am exploring the great outdoors.