What I Learned in July

And just like that, July is over. I’m linking up with Emily to share what we learned in July.

1. I realized that I still miss going to summer camp. Some of my very best friendships began in that sticky lake air. Those early morning breakfasts of rubbery eggs and frosted flakes were a summer rite of passage and I can still smell the over-powering aroma of herbal essence shampoo in a cabin full of 13-year olds. It’s an experience I really don’t want our girls to miss out on if possible. Every kid needs to get carried off by giant camp mosquitos once a year.

2. I learned what kind of eggs I liked. And really, this is huge for me. I feel like a legitimate adult eating my egg every morning.

3. I learned that the traditional 8th anniversary gift is pottery. AND, I actually bought my guy this mug from NSPottery for our 8th anniversary in a few weeks–and then it came early so I couldn’t wait and he got it for his birthday instead. But for once in my life, I was completely on track to do something Emily Post (and possible Emily Gilmore too) approved. Hooray!

4. Writing on the Go. I learned that although I cannot read while riding in the car (ugh, blech!) I CAN type on my laptop. This is a game-changer. Well, It would be a game-changer if I had a driver to shuttle me around Mrs. Daisy style.

5. I learned that there are Anne of Green Gables books which I did not know existed. Rilla of Ingleside and Rainbow Valley— I spotted both at B&N in the children’s section. I cannot wait to finish Anne of Avonlea and the following ones, now that I know there are more! These hardcover editions are so pretty, they would be fun to stack up on the mantle. I did recently pick up a copy of Mary Poppins to read aloud with Lucy for 1st grade and I’m giddy to begin it!! She loves the movie so I think she will enjoy the book too.

6. The obligatory Goggle picture is one thing I cannot live without. I do not even know what magically happens to a child’s face when they have goggles on, but I do know that it is a hilarious gift. Bonus points if you can get your husband in a pair of goggles.

What I’ve been reading: 

Wild in the Hollow by Amber Haines (This is an amazingly raw and honest book. And completely beautiful.

My Life in France by Julia Child (I’m stretching this one way out.)

Longing for Paris by Sarah Mae  (apparently I’m on a French kick.)   This one is still on the amazing pre-sale price!

Next up on the list I’m deciding between Bossypants by Tina Fey or Delicious by Ruth Reichl.

What are you reading?

What did you learn in July?  Happy August Friends! I hope you live in a state where school does not begin for weeks and you’re still summering it up!

(As always, the amazon links are affiliate links.)