Here we are saying goodbye to June and welcoming July. Are you in full-fledged summer mode yet? I know some parts of the country are having weather that isn’t exactly conducive to picnics and roller coasters, but I hope you’re enjoying your summer so far.
I always love catching up with a potpourri post and sharing what’s been happening in my world—and hearing what’s been happening in yours too!
Julie sent some stunning photos from the Oregon coast, where she has been staying.
She has been spending her days hiking, walking the beach, and exploring everything the morning low tide uncovers.
Everything looks so fresh and beautiful.
My sister Monique and her husband, Peter, took a trip down the California coast last week and did plenty of exploring themselves.
While visiting Ojai, they came across giant tortoises who turned out to be surprisingly friendly—and quite happy to receive a little attention. Who knew?
What We’re Doing
Arizona’s high-country forest fires have kept us closer to home over the past couple of weeks. That has meant lots of pool time, and I made it to water exercise class three times last week.
Denisse, Evon, and I also floated down the Salt River on inner tubes. The river is stunningly beautiful, and seeing wild horses cooling off along the banks while tubers and paddleboarders drifted past made for a memorable day.
We’re slowly but surely getting back into our normal routine as John continues to heal so well.
What I’m Reading
- Rules of Civility by Amor Towles — Set in pre-World War II New York City, this novel follows several young people as they navigate relationships, careers, and life’s unexpected turns. Although I’ve never lived in 1930s New York, Towles made me feel as though I had. Highly recommend.
- The Poison Thread by Laura Purcell (narrated by Jayne Entwistle and Elizabeth Knowelden) — A Victorian gothic mystery, which isn’t my usual genre, but it was an entertaining read with a satisfying twist.
- The Husbands by Holly Gramazio (narrated by Miranda Raison) — A clever blend of fiction and fantasy. It’s wonderfully imaginative, though it could have been a little shorter.
- Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (narrated by Marin Ireland) — Kevin Wilson always delivers delightfully quirky stories, and this one certainly doesn’t disappoint.
- Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty — I gave this one three stars. The premise was intriguing, but it felt overly long with too many storylines competing for attention.
What I’m Eating
Well…not exactly me.
I tried a new recipe for John that I thought some of you might enjoy if you’re looking for a quick pork tenderloin recipe for the air fryer.
Recipe Teacher’s Best Damn Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin uses a flavorful spice rub with just a touch of brown sugar. I served it with mashed potatoes and broccoli, and John immediately declared that it deserves a permanent spot in our dinner rotation.
Wrap Up
Thank you for spending June with me. I’m always amazed at how quickly another calendar page turns.
We celebrate Independence Day on July 3 here, so by the next time we visit, the holiday will already be behind us.
It seems like everyone I know is heading out of town, and I’d love to hear about your travels—or your staycation adventures.
Until next time, may God richly bless you.