Valley Living

How to make the most of July

Traditionally July is the hottest month of the year. However, this year, we must have already broken some records in June!

So, what does July mean for us here in the UK? Well, warmer weather. It’s almost the end of the school year, so we are gearing up for the summer holidays. Good news for the children but not always for parents!

And then there’s one of my favourites, Wimbledon, that conjures up thoughts of strawberries and cream, Pimms and lazy summer days.

Special days in July

There are a few special day’s that are worth mentioning this month; let’s look at some of them.

3rd July – Wimbledon

The men’s and women’s singles first round begins at Wimbledon – Wimbledon timetable

7th July – World Chocolate Day

World chocolate day that is dedicated to all things cocoa-based, and if you are a chocolate lover, a good excuse!

10th July – International, don’t step on a bee day

Bees help provide the honey, propolis and beeswax contained within many of your favourite products; they also help to keep us all fed and watered! Without the tireless work of our little buzzing friends, over a third of everything we eat would disappear from our tables.

You can raise awareness by spreading the word by sharing on social media using @BeeGood_UK or use #DontStepOnABeeDay to help raise awareness!

15th July – St Swithins Day

Tradition says that whatever the weather is like on St Swithins Day, it will continue for forty days; we’ll have to see, won’t we? If you would like to find out more about this age-old saying, check out MetMatters

Fingers crossed!

St Swithin’s Day, if thou dost rain

For forty days, it will remain

St Swithin’s Day, if thou be fair

For forty days, ‘twill rain nae mair.’

30th July is International Day of Friendship

Originally designated by the United Nations General Assembly. It is a day when we can step back and be thankful for our relationships which are thought to promote and encourage peace, happiness, and unity. It’s also a great time to buy your friends a little something special to mark the occasion.

And for July birthdays

If you believe in the Zodiac, then here’s a little rundown on those born between 21st June and 22nd July:

Sign: Cancer (21st June– 22nd July)

Symbol: The Crab

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Colour: Silver-Blue

Characteristics: Emotional, intuitive, loyal, creative, spiritual, caring, resilient

June birthstone: Ruby, the colour of love, passion, wealth and peace. In ancient times people wore rubies as protection against evil.

And if you are on the hunt for some unusual birthday cards and gifts, you’ll be happy to know that we have a lovely collection of greeting cards in store. And all our cards are designed and made in the UK from small independent artists.

Aud’s July recipe suggestion

Talking of strawberries . . .

Wimbledon and World Chocolate Day inspired me for this month’s recipe. I mean, is there any better combination than fresh summer strawberries and chocolate? And in my version, I combine these two beautiful ingredients with a decedent mascarpone cream. Click on the image below to download and keep.