Earthquakes aren't restricted to California. If you feel a shake in Missouri, New Mexico, yes, even Utah, check for "hidden damage" such as crushing at the bottoms of walls or foundation movement. If you notice anything, it's time to call in the experts. Being aware keeps your family safe!  



School will be starting for many children this month. Check with your local campus. Perhaps you can meet with your child's teacher over Zoom, even let your child get to meet the person they will be spending the year with! First day worries already handled!


August is shrub transplanting time. Root ball (read: burlap-wrapped) shrubs need to be planted within three days. Water thoroughly, but consider waiting until the following year to fertilize. This gives the feeder roots time to become established. The next spring, they will be beautiful!


North America is abuzz with fascinating flying creatures during August. (Ignore the ones that find your windshield at night!) Go out at dusk with your kids and see how many they can locate. You can even have them draw and color their favorite, perhaps display them on the fridge! Entomologists in the making! (That's a bug scientist for the rest of us, lol.)


Remember your mother's plastic box of file card recipes? Create memories for your kids by writing out several fun-to-make items. Send them to the box to find their favorite, and let them help you prepare it! Make it a weekly thing! Good memories created!