Hello, July - my birth month!

June came and went in a whirlwind. It was a month packed with deadlines, travel arrangements, expenditures, and the ever-important PCard reconciliations — all of which had to be completed by June 30th. It was busy, intense, and at times a little overwhelming, but I was up for the challenge. I’m happy (and proud!) to share that I met the deadline in flying colors!

Working from home for most of June — thanks to ongoing road construction — turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The quieter space gave me room to focus, stay organized, and manage the workload with a little more calm and clarity.

At home, life didn’t slow down either. Between household chores, car problems, and spending time with family, I found a moment to go biking around the neighborhood with my niece and nephew. It didn’t go quite as planned — I fell off after just five minutes! But as the saying goes, it’s not about how you fall, but how you get back up. And I did — brushed myself off, though a little shocked, and rode the bike back home to check the scratches and bruises. I’m still feeling a few aches and pains from the fall, and it might take some time before I hop back on that bike again — but I will.

Now, as I welcome July, I do so with a grateful heart, because it is my birth month. I step into this new chapter not only with relief after a fast-paced June, but also with anticipation, reflection, and quiet celebration.

To celebrate the Fourth of July, our goal is simple: spend it with family. Nothing fancy — just the kind of day that feels like summer. We’ll fire up the barbecue, enjoy good food, take a refreshing dip in the pool, and maybe watch the fireworks as the night winds down. It’s in these simple joys — being together, sharing laughter, and creating memories — that this season shines brightest.

As I look forward to my birthday, there’s something deeply meaningful about entering the month that gave me life. It’s a gentle reminder to honor how far I’ve come, appreciate the journey behind me, and stay open to what lies ahead.

I’m also excited to visit the movie theater soon to see my favorite superhero’s new movie … up, up, and away!

Here’s to a July filled with sunshine, celebration, hope, and fresh beginnings. May it be kind to all of us.