Thursday 

Already hearing bombs bursting in air tonight from some impatient revelers. I’ll stick with my less intimidating sparklers. 

Sunday 

Happy Fourth! The Big Green Egg is at work on our brisket, and the BBQ sauce is simmering. Is it time to eat yet? 

Tuesday 

A lot of rumbling thunder in the distance. Hard to tell if it’s nature talking or a few leftover bottle rockets.  

Thursday 

Sipping my morning tea on the front lanai, I saw two dogs running full out past the house—but wait, those weren’t furry friends. They were the neighborhood coyotes. In pursuit of breakfast?   

Saturday 

It’s that most wonderful time of the year: mango season! And this is looking like a banner season. Heaven, I’m in heaven… 

Monday 

There are a few mangoes on my tree so close to being ripe. I think it’s about time for a mango pie. Drool. 

Wednesday 

After watching that PBS series on Ernest Hemingway last spring, I’m eager to check out the annual Hemingway Days celebration. Want to take a little road trip to Key West, M? 

Thursday 

My orchids were so good to me earlier this year, producing multitudes of blooms, but now they need a little TLC, sweltering out there on the porch. 

Sunday 

Our neighbors have an osprey platform in their back yard. It has been so much fun watching that osprey family mature. I’m definitely invested in their success. 

Wednesday 

It seems like they just got out, but schools are reopening already. The good news is, schools are reopening—after a very challenging year. 

Friday 

You never know what to expect during a trip outside this time of year. You just might get caught in a wall of water breaking loose from the sky. Outdoor showers are great, but today was a bit much. 

Saturday 

My shoes are still pretty wet and squishy from yesterday’s deluge. Of course, leaving them on the porch in 110 percent humidity was not that smart. 

Monday 

Tennis this morning with C, R, and B was brutally hot. But we all loved it. Yes, we are nuts. 

Wednesday 

A trip to the island library is like a day at the spa. A couple of hours browsing and reading—I am refreshed. 

Friday 

Let’s get packing. September approaches. The Carolina mountains beckon. Time for a short reset.