Summer has officially entered the Northern Hemisphere. Today, the sun travels along its northernmost path in the sky. For our Southern Hemisphere friends, it is the astronomical start of winter. Do you ever notice that you understand something so much better when you also know the opposite?
I have always loved the summer season. There are many possible reasons why I love summer, but, through the years, it has been the sense of freedom that attracts me most. Speaking of the celebration of freedom, the USA is celebrating its 250th birthday — still a baby compared to some “old world” countries, but definitely old enough to have witnessed an ever changing world.
Last week, I shared a basic outline for celebrating a special Fourth of July this year. Even though this holiday celebrates “independence”, this gathering should be about togetherness. Many hands make light the work is a phrase that rings of personal freedom. My suggestion was to assemble a team of coordinators, break tasks into groups, find ways to create something for everyone to do, and be conscious of special accommodations that might be needed.
Resources
With that spirit of togetherness in mind, I wanted to share a few trusted resources to help you shape a celebration that feels joyful and welcoming.
- If you’re looking for something simple and summery to bring to your gathering, this collection of easy seasonal recipes from Taste of Home offers plenty of inspiration. This link, SUMMER RECIPES, is sure to provide wonderful choices.
- If you’d like to add a little playful fun to your gathering, this collection of OUTDOOR GAMES offers something for every age and ability. As always, choose activities that fit the needs and comfort levels of your group.
- If you’d like to add a simple, festive touch to your gathering, this collection of easy FOURTH OF JULY CRAFTS offers ideas for all ages.
In the coming months, I’ll be curating my own tried‑and‑true recipes to share with you. Some will appear in Your Secret Garden, and others will eventually become part of a larger seasonal collection. As Evergreen Yuletide continues to grow, I look forward to offering a few handmade pieces inspired by the valley and its stories.
And, speaking of the valley, last Sunday Sophie came running to meet you. She was thrilled to join Uncle Bernie and Holly…and you!
This week’s story card invites you to pause beside one of the valley’s most beloved summer places — the clear, shimmering pool revealed in Puzzle Piece #28. It’s a spot that offers both playfulness and rest, a little reminder that even in a busy season, moments of calm are waiting to be found. Tap below to download today’s story card and puzzle piece.
As we step into these long summer days, may you find small moments of rest beside your own quiet waters — places where sunlight shimmers, laughter gathers, and the work feels lighter because it’s shared. I’ll meet you here next Sunday, where another piece of the valley is waiting.
⬅Tap the image to enter your puzzle piece chest.
⬅Tap the image to enter your magical reading world.
Come and see 🌹.
There is so much more waiting for you.
As a gentle reminder, subscribers have their own secret garden where, occasionally, gifts appear. A golden key opens the gate, and subscribers receive the monthly password in their welcome newsletter.
The golden key can be seen below. Tap it to step inside the garden.
I hope to see you again next week—
Same day, Sunday.
Same Adventure.
Another piece of the story waiting to be revealed.
With an open heart and a quiet corner saved just for you,
Paula
You are also invited to click the subscribe button at the end of this post. You will be transported to the home page, and at the bottom of that page is the subscribe form.
Your Secret Garden Key
⬇
🌹