The Wonders of July
The seasonal noticings and magical moments of the month.
Earlier this month I was spending time in my hometown, along the shores of Lake Michigan and popping around from farm stand to farm stand, making stops at all the local lavender farms. It was the epitome of what July in Michigan feels like. Fresh produce everywhere you look, people swimming in the cool waters and relaxing on golden sandy beaches. I stayed longer than I had originally anticipated and I could have stayed longer… but the garden at home was calling my name for some much needed water, weeding and care.
Upon returning home I was welcomed to a garden bursting with flowers. Echinacea, coreopsis, anise hyssop, zinnias, gomphrena, ageratum… it was a kaleidoscope of color. Not to mention the herbs and veggies that have made their debut (it’s my first time really growing vegetables for us and I can’t tell you how excited I was to pick beans and zucchini from my own garden. Not to mention the potatoes that are soon to come!).
But at the same time, as I write this, I’m hunkered down inside because of the smoke from Canadian wildfires creating dangerous air quality in Michigan. Paired with the intense heat over the past couple of weeks, this summer feels quite different.
I’ve realized more and more that when you start paying attention to nature, the seasons, the cycles and all other living beings we share this planet with… you also start paying attention to the impacts of climate change and the dangers it poses for our planet. I can’t look outside my window and not think of the birds, bees, deer and other wildlife that are impacted by smoke, heat, development and so on.
While I do feel that my natural approach is to see possibility and opportunity in things (and even in this, there is part of me that doea), I also think it’s important to acknowledge the realities, challenges and concerns as well.
I’m looking at the wonders of July through the same lens as I have in other months… but with an even greater appreciation of them. Because when the air is so hazardous and clouded with smoke that you can’t comfortably (or safely) be outside, you start to realize even more just how special our planet and all that call it home really is.
So here are some of the wonders I’m appreciating most this month - plus the cycles of the season that make it magical.
The Wonders of July
Water: Refreshing water to drink, swim in, play around in, listen to, sit next to, grow food and flowers with… all of it. We’re spoiled in Michigan to have such access, this I know, but even a garden hose, a cold shower or a glass to drink carries the same refreshing and hydrating energy.
Butterflies: Now that the garden is full of blooms, including many natives, these beautiful flighty friends have found their way. They’re beautiful, yes, but it’s hard to look at a butterfly and not think of the transformation they undergo to reach that state. The symbolism – of letting ourselves evolve, change and transform over time – is sometimes the permission that I think we could all use more of.
Fireflies: Every night before bed my pup and I head out for one last bathroom break. This past week especially, while I wait patiently for her business to be done, I watch the fireflies. The yard is full of their delicate twinkles… and I find myself smiling unknowingly as my eyes widen in wonder and awe of these insects that bring such magic to so many.
Fresh produce: If you’ve caught the news lately, you may have seen that Michigan is having quite a moment when it comes to a certain parasite outbreak. Every summer I’m grateful for the abundance of local producers and farms we have in Michigan, but this year I’m especially grateful for them.
Flowers: I know, this is a bit of a “catch all”, but I’m not sure how I could pick just a few to celebrate here because I think at this time of the season it’s the collection of them all together that make each one that much more special. The way a zinnia pops in a bouquet (or in the garden) next to a wispy celosia stem. Or the way the cool color of ageratum immediately adds a moment of “ahhh” to an arrangement. Or the way a lemon basil stalk sends out the most delightful, refreshing aroma (and gorgeous green color) to enliven a sense of smell. The combination of the garden coming together is what creates the real wonder (in my opinion).
Blue skies and wispy clouds: Something about summer encourages us to lay down and look up at the sky. To watch the clouds move against the bright blue and to notice birds drifting along on the breeze. I often wonder what sort of journey the clouds make… where they came together, how long before they dissipate. Am I seeing the same clouds (or parts of the same clouds) as my family in Australia? Some little things I wonder about.
Fresh air: Riding along on a bicycle, sitting outside at dawn, driving along with the windows down… the feeling of fresh air something I take for granted. To take a deep breath in that fills your lungs so full where you can almost feel oxygen coursing through your veins… it’s a little moment, something our body does naturally, that literally gives us life. As soon as it’s safe again, the first thing I’m doing is embracing the fresh air with massive deep breaths.
July is the month that really settles us into the summer season. Reminding us that there is so much around to notice while we still have the long days in our favor. To sit under starry night skies while fireflies dance around us (and yes… mosquitos, too – par for the course I suppose). But that’s the lesson… we don’t get to enjoy nature without noticing all of it… the good, the bad, the dangers and the beauty… it’s the full package… and full of wonder.
The cycles of the month:
July 14 - New Moon in Cancer: An emotional time to set intentions around the things that nurture us, nourish us and feel like home to us.
July 22 - Leo season begins: The season of inspiration, creativity, confidence and yes, some fieryness, too.
July 29 - The Buck Moon (Full Moon in Aquarius): A time to celebrate our individuality while recognizing our part in the collective and fighting for a better future for all.
I hope that you find your own moments of magic and wonder this month. Moments to notice the abundance that nature provides and also to recognize just how lucky we are to call this planet home… with water, blue skies, insects and wildlife, and color flowers to enjoy. In a sea of stars of galaxies… more than we’ll ever truly be able to comprehend… we’re here on this beautiful green and blue oasis. That’s pretty special, and a wonder all of it’s own.
A bit about me…
I’m Rebecca (or Becca) - astrologer, flower farmer, and writer exploring life through seasons and cycles. I use astrology and the natural world as lenses for perspective… noticing patterns, timing, and the gentle wonder and wisdom woven through our ordinary days. My work is an invitation to pay attention, to get curious, and to move in rhythm with what feels true to you.
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