August’s Good Things: Orchard Deer Fencing, Hydration Hacks, and Entertainment Reviews

Good things to do, buy, read, and watch – in this month’s comprehensive list, I’m excited to share our new cost-effective orchard deer fencing solution, the simple setup that’s significantly boosting my daily water intake, reviews of 8 captivating books across various genres, and our latest cinematic and streaming discoveries. Get ready for practical tips to enhance your home and health, alongside inspiring entertainment recommendations to enrich your leisure time!

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August, a month that shifts its meaning and rhythm based on where you live and your current phase of life. For many, it signifies the mad rush of back-to-school preparations, the start of new academic chapters, or the blissful escape of a long-awaited summer vacation. And for others, particularly in warmer climates, it’s a relentless battle against the summer heat, eagerly anticipating the cooler, crisp embrace of fall.

Here on the West Coast, our children typically don’t return to school until after Labor Day, with college semesters commencing even later in September. This extended summer period means August is dedicated to savoring the last drops of the season, making the most of the long days and warm evenings. Our personal plans include a refreshing week at the Oregon coast, hopefully joined by any of our kids who can make it, along with more leisurely paddling excursions on our beautiful nearby lakes. It’s a time for family, relaxation, and making lasting summer memories.

However, for me, residing in the verdant Willamette Valley, August carries a particularly special significance: it marks the triumphant beginning of the main summer produce harvest! The garden truly comes alive, demanding immediate attention and celebrating bountiful yields. Our beans are flourishing, growing gangbusters, and demanding immediate attention for delicious pickled beans and this incredibly yummy, shelf-stable three-bean salad, perfect for preserving summer’s flavors. Zucchini are swelling to impressive sizes, perfect for whipping up delightful zucchini-feta fritters, a family favorite. And finally, after patient anticipation, the tomatoes and peppers are ripening at a fantastic pace, signaling it’s time to make my favorite canning salsa, filling our pantry with homemade goodness. It’s a truly bountiful, rewarding, and busy time of year that I cherish deeply.

Given all this natural abundance and the vibrant energy of August, it’s easy to see why I look forward to this month with such enthusiasm. And beyond the garden’s delightful harvests, I’m thrilled to share a collection of “good things” that have enhanced my life recently. This list encompasses practical home solutions, personal wellness hacks, and captivating entertainment. This month’s highlights even include a book that I’m confidently predicting will secure a spot on my year-end “best books” compilation, a true testament to its impact!

August’s Curated Good Things List

Cost-Effective Deer Fencing for the Orchard: A Game Changer for Fruit Tree Protection

One of the most significant and satisfying projects we completed this summer was the installation of a comprehensive fence around our small fruit orchard. This wasn’t just about minor protection; it was a crucial, long-term step to safeguard our precious fruit trees from the relentless browsing habits of local deer, while simultaneously allowing them the much-needed space and freedom to grow naturally and reach their full potential without impediment.

In previous years, we relied on individual fencing circles placed around each young tree. While these offered initial, temporary protection, as the trees matured and expanded, any branch or leaf that dared to extend beyond these restrictive circles was promptly and ruthlessly “pruned” by opportunistic deer. This constant interference stunted their natural spreading growth and distorted their form. By year four, one of our dwarf plum trees, in particular, had taken on the unfortunate appearance of a sad, narrow column, its growth severely hindered due to persistent deer interference and the limitations of its small cage.

Beyond the obvious damage to the trees’ growth and aesthetics, there were three other compelling, practical reasons that prompted us to liberate our trees from their confining individual cages and opt for a full orchard enclosure:

• **Weed Control Nightmare:** It became virtually impossible to keep the area at the base of the trees free of weeds. These invasive plants not only detracted from the orchard’s appearance but, more importantly, competed directly with the tree roots for vital water and nutrients. This competition significantly hindered tree health and made effective watering and fertilizing extremely challenging and inefficient.
• **Difficult Harvesting:** Reaching the ripe fruit was a constant struggle. While I could manage to get my hand into the individual circles to some extent, I could never reach all the way to the center of the trees, leading to missed fruit, frustrated harvesting sessions, and a less productive yield.
• **Impractical Pruning:** Pruning the trees, an essential part of orchard maintenance for health and fruit production, was an arduous task. It required significant effort to try and maneuver around or even temporarily remove the individual fence circles, adding unnecessary complexity, time, and physical strain to an already important chore.

You might reasonably wonder why we didn’t simply wait for the trees to grow large enough to be beyond the reach of deer. The simple truth is that two of our trees are dwarf varieties, meaning they will never exceed 10 feet in height. This inherent size leaves them perpetually vulnerable, as deer would easily decimate most of their leaves and fruit for their entire lifespan. The other trees are semi-dwarf, and while they grow larger, their lower foliage would still be relentlessly browsed and damaged, significantly hindering their overall health and productivity. A full, dedicated perimeter fence was clearly the only viable and sustainable long-term solution for true orchard protection.

The transformation after removing the small cages and completing the full enclosure was immense and deeply satisfying. It was incredibly freeing to finally have the entire orchard area open, accessible, and protected! I immediately set about thoroughly weeding the entire space, meticulously pruning each tree for optimal growth, and properly watering them without obstruction. With the area now securely protected, we were also able to plant some exciting new additions: a few blueberry bushes we had been given, along with a couple of mulberry trees, knowing they would now thrive without immediate threat from local wildlife.

The entire fencing process proved to be fairly straightforward and, while nothing is truly “cheap” when dealing with persistent deer (these particular deer have ironically coerced us into spending far more on our garden and protective measures than ever before!), it was certainly a cost-effective and enduring solution in the long run. My husband, Brian, handled the more involved task of setting the main posts for the gate, ensuring a sturdy and functional entrance. Following that, we systematically pounded in t-posts around the perimeter, establishing the main framework. The deer fencing material was then carefully stretched and pulled taut around these posts, using durable zip ties to securely attach the netting, ensuring no gaps for deer to exploit. This method created a robust yet visually unobtrusive barrier that blends well with the natural surroundings of our property, effectively safeguarding our orchard for years to come.

Simple & Sustainable Hydration: Drinking More Water Without Plastic

In an age where oversized plastic-handled drinking cups seem to be ubiquitous, dominating social media and store shelves, I found myself hesitating. While the idea of a constant visual reminder to drink water was appealing and undeniably effective, I simply couldn’t get past the thought of consistently sipping through a plastic straw or using a bottle predominantly made of plastic. Even many seemingly sustainable stainless steel bottles often incorporate plastic components in their lids and straw mechanisms, negating some of their environmental benefits. Beyond the environmental concerns and potential health implications of repeated plastic exposure, there was also the considerable cost of these trendy items. My primary concern, however, remained the pervasive use of plastic.

Yet, the desire to significantly increase my daily water intake persisted. I wondered if a readily visible, always-present bottle could genuinely serve as that much-needed, passive reminder throughout my busy day. Then, a moment of delightful clarity! I realized I already possessed a perfect, sustainable, and charming solution: a collection of lovely vintage mason jars. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing and add a touch of rustic, timeless charm to my workspace, but I also had several zinc lids specifically designed with convenient holes for straws – and, crucially, a stash of durable, reusable stainless steel straws! These items, previously reserved for occasional guest use and largely tucked away in a cupboard, were ready for a new, everyday purpose that aligned perfectly with my values.

So, I began a simple but incredibly effective routine. Every morning, I fill a quart-sized mason jar with fresh water, attach one of the zinc lids, insert a stainless steel straw, and set it on my desk or countertop where it’s always in sight. My daily goal is to finish this quart throughout the morning and early afternoon, alongside my usual morning water (consumed pre-coffee), coffee, and tea (often fortified with collagen for added benefits). Sometimes I add a refreshing slice of lemon or lime for a subtle flavor boost, sometimes I enjoy it simply plain. This small, conscious change has made a significant and measurable difference in my daily hydration habits, transforming a challenge into an effortless routine.

And it truly worked! Having the beautiful, clear jar constantly within sight acts as a silent, gentle, yet powerful prompt. I find myself instinctively reaching for it and taking sips when I otherwise wouldn’t have thought to drink anything at all, particularly during focused work. This method also strategically allows me to “front-load” my water intake, consuming the majority of my fluids in the morning and early afternoon. This is a deliberate and beneficial strategy, as I consciously try to reduce my fluid intake after dinner to minimize nighttime awakenings and ensure a more restful, uninterrupted sleep. It’s a holistic approach to hydration that aligns perfectly with my lifestyle goals for both wellness and sleep quality.

Do I miss having a handle like the popular plastic cups? Not at all. For travel or when I’m out and about, I have a dedicated steel water bottle that serves that purpose perfectly. But for my home and daily routine, the elegant and functional mason jar is absolutely perfect. Do I love its classic, charming look and the satisfaction of a plastic-free solution? Absolutely! It’s incredible to think I didn’t come up with this simple, sustainable, and utterly effective system sooner. It’s a wonderful testament to the idea that sometimes the best, most eco-friendly, and most cost-effective solutions are those already within our reach, just waiting to be repurposed and appreciated.

July Books Read: Diverse Reads and Deep Dives into Storytelling

My reading list for July was an eclectic mix of genres and narrative styles, taking me on journeys from outer space to small-town America. Here are my detailed thoughts and reviews on the books that filled my quiet moments and sparked my imagination:

The Singularity Trap, Dennis E. Taylor. This sci-fi novel presented an incredibly intriguing premise: a space miner, desperate for money to support his family, encounters a mysterious alien substance that gradually begins to take over his consciousness and body. While the core idea of a rapidly evolving, sentient alien entity and its interaction with humanity was fascinating and thought-provoking, my husband Brian’s concise review perfectly captures its execution: “Something happened {to our hero}…and then he went into a meeting.” This humorously highlights the novel’s tendency towards extensive dialogue, internal monologues, and numerous meetings, often at the expense of propulsive action and dynamic plot development. While some sci-fi readers might appreciate the detailed world-building and philosophical discussions about artificial intelligence and existential threats, those looking for fast-paced adventure and constant thrills might find the narrative pacing a bit slow and exposition-heavy.

Secrets, Robin Jones Gunn. This is the charming inaugural novel in Gunn’s Glenbrook series, a contemporary Christian fiction offering. We are introduced to the endearing residents of Glenbrooke, a delightful fictional town nestled in the picturesque Willamette Valley near Portland – a fun local touch that resonated with me! The story unfolds primarily through the eyes of Jessica, a high school teacher seeking a fresh start and eager to leave her complicated past in California behind. It was a sweet, quick, and thoroughly enjoyable read, delving into gentle themes of spiritual growth, the complexities of family dynamics, the formation of new friendships, and the hope found in new beginnings. Ideal for those who appreciate wholesome contemporary fiction with a heartwarming message and character-driven narratives.

The Correspondent, Virginia Evans. This short yet profoundly moving book is structured entirely as an epistolary novel, comprised solely of letters, emails, and text messages exchanged between various characters. I’ve always had a particular fondness for this unique and intimate format – the classic A Woman Of Independent Means still ranks incredibly high on my all-time favorite list – and this book proved to be an exceptional addition to that cherished subgenre. The narrative primarily begins with the protagonist at 73, and through her extensive correspondence with various individuals, we gain an intimate, layered glimpse into her past life, her present circumstances, and even glimpses of her future aspirations and challenges. It was a truly lovely experience, prompting deep reflection on life choices, the enduring nature of friendship, the complexities of family relationships, and the transformative power of forgiveness. While I’m sure the book form is excellent, I wholeheartedly recommend the audiobook version. The use of different actors to read each character’s letters brought an incredible depth and authenticity, making it incredibly easy to distinguish voices and imbuing each character with a distinct personality and emotional resonance. This one is undoubtedly destined for my year-end best books list, a true standout!

Run for the Hills, Kevin Wilson. Having previously enjoyed Wilson’s Nothing To See Here for its clever humor, unique premise, and tender moments, I eagerly placed his latest book on hold at the library with high hopes. This novel certainly features quirky characters, moments of understated humor, and an interesting road trip plotline filled with unusual occurrences and eccentric encounters. However, despite these promising elements, I found myself unexpectedly unable to connect with any of the characters on a deep or meaningful emotional level. The story follows half-siblings who are newly discovering each other and embark on a cross-country journey to find the enigmatic father who abandoned them years ago. Their eventual reunion, unfortunately, felt both awkward and anticlimactic, lacking the emotional punch I anticipated. I’m not entirely sure what I was expecting from the resolution, but perhaps a little more emotional depth, vulnerability, or a stronger sense of genuine connection and growth between the characters would have made a significant difference. It felt like the quirkiness sometimes overshadowed genuine emotional resonance.

Back After This, Linda Holmes. I vividly recall enjoying Evvie Drake Gets Her Life Back by the same author, finding it charming and well-resolved, but I struggled to connect with this particular book much at all. A significant portion of the narrative revolved around the intricate details of podcasting and sound editing, which, for me, didn’t hold much intrinsic interest and often felt like unnecessary exposition. The central plot – a character undertaking a series of 20 hand-picked dates after receiving coaching, and the accidental, unexpected love that blossoms along the way – was certainly intriguing and offered potential for compelling romance. However, the ending felt incredibly abrupt and frustratingly incomplete. The hero and heroine finally engage in a crucial conversation to discuss their problems, but the story concludes right there, before they actually work through them or offer any real resolution. A year-later epilogue follows, which I desperately hoped would provide insight into how they eventually worked out their relationship challenges. Instead, it remained frustratingly vague about the main couple, offering updates on everyone else in their lives – including the rescue dog – but leaving the core characters’ journey feeling unfinished and unsatisfying.

If It Bleeds, Stephen King. This compelling collection, published in 2020, comprises four distinct and captivating short stories and novellas: Mr. Harrigan’s Phone, The Life of Chuck, If It Bleeds, and Rat. Interestingly, The Life of Chuck has since been adapted into a movie starring Tom Hiddleston, released this summer; Mr. Harrigan’s Phone was produced by Netflix in 2022 starring Donald Sutherland; and Rat was acquired by Ben Stiller for future production, indicating the strong narrative appeal of these works. My husband Brian and I listened to this together as an audiobook, and the narrators delivered exceptional performances, perfectly capturing King’s classic dialogue, his rich characterizations, and atmospheric settings. These aren’t horror stories in the traditional sense, but lean more towards mysteries, psychological thrillers, and a touch of the uncanny, with only one containing any elements of gore. All were incredibly engaging and showcased King’s masterful storytelling prowess and versatility across genres. Our absolute favorite, however, was the title novella, If It Bleeds, which prominently features Holly Gibney, one of King’s recurring and much-loved characters. You truly come to appreciate and respect her more through this detailed story, gaining deeper insight into her life, her struggles, and her unique complexities. This experience has definitely made us eager to explore more of Holly’s adventures and delve deeper into her journey within King’s intricate universe.

The Heart of Winter, Jonathan Evison. I initially wrote in my newsletter, midway through this book, that it “tells the 70-year love story of Ruth and Abe Winter with all life’s ups and downs. Sweet and heartbreaking at times – all the feels.” Unfortunately, after finishing the remainder of the book, I found myself with a distinct lack of those promised “feels.” The non-ending, which is always a personal detractor for me (often feeling like an authorial cop-out rather than a deliberate artistic choice), was profoundly disappointing. Moreover, the love between the couple, even after decades of shared life, consistently felt somewhat one-sided, with one partner carrying more of the emotional weight. Adding to my frustration was the unsympathetic portrayal of aging through the character of Abe Winter. While we are privy to the thoughts and physical aches/pains of older individuals, Abe came across largely as an “old coot” unwilling to change, adapt, or listen to anyone else, often ranting at younger generations without self-awareness. Even when his stubborn decisions led to dire consequences, he seemed unhumbled or unreflective. The apparent lack of close relationships between the older couple and their children also felt a bit underdeveloped, mirroring the somewhat distant and unyielding dynamic between Ruth and Abe themselves. Ultimately, it was an odd and not particularly resonant read for me, despite its initial promise of a sprawling love story.

Every Summer After, Carley Fortune. I had not read this author before, but after seeing her books – this is her fourth – consistently featured on numerous “summer beach reads” lists and praised by critics, I decided to place a hold on her debut novel at the library. Fortune undeniably excels at capturing the nostalgic essence of teenagers spending idyllic summers by a lake: the warmth of the sun, the refreshing allure of the water, and the boundless freedom to pursue any whim and forge deep connections. While it effectively functions as a poignant coming-of-age story and a heartfelt reflection on formative teenage years, its central plot, unfortunately, hinges on a narrative contrivance that often wears thin for me: a complete lack of communication between the main characters. My internal monologue throughout the story was, “If their relationship was supposedly built on unwavering openness and the ability to share absolutely anything, why would they abruptly cease communicating for years, creating such profound misunderstandings?” This crucial plot device felt less like real life and more like a convenient way to prolong the conflict and extend the narrative. Despite this, many years eventually pass, and the characters do finally resolve their deeply rooted issues and find their way back to each other, which earns points for a happy and ultimately satisfying ending! (Note: readers should be aware this novel contains open-door intimate scenes, which may not be suitable for all audiences).

Watching: Our Latest Screens and Cinematic Experiences

Beyond the world of books, we’ve also carved out some time for cinematic experiences and television viewing this month. Here’s what caught our attention and provided some entertainment on screen:

F1: The Movie (Theaters, Apple TV+). My husband Brian and I thoroughly enjoyed this film, which unexpectedly drew us into the high-stakes world of Formula 1 racing. It was surprisingly fun, boasting a decent, engaging plot that kept us invested in the characters and their journeys, and the racing sequences were dynamic and easy to follow, even for us who aren’t deeply familiar with the intricacies of F1 racing. Our daughter had initially recommended it as a movie “dads would love,” but I was pleasantly surprised to find myself thoroughly entertained as well, captivated by the drama and speed. It’s a great pick for an engaging, high-octane watch that appeals beyond its niche.

Superman (Theaters). This latest iteration of the iconic superhero on the big screen was, admittedly, just okay. While still entertaining in parts and offering some classic superhero action, it was unfortunately laden with overly long, cartoonish fight sequences where Superman, bafflingly, seemed to be losing far too often against villains that didn’t feel particularly threatening. These prolonged and somewhat repetitive battles detracted significantly from the narrative flow and made the film feel less impactful and more drawn out than it could have been. It had its moments of fun and spectacle, but ultimately, it didn’t quite soar to the heights we hoped for from the Man of Steel.

That’s it for another exciting and insightful edition of the Good Things List!

If you’d like to explore more of what I’m currently enjoying, whether it’s home projects, wellness tips, or entertainment recommendations, you can easily check out all the previous Good Things Lists here. I’m always eager to hear your thoughts and recommendations – perhaps you’ve tried some of these suggestions yourself, or you have your own “good things” to share that have made your life better! Please feel free to leave a comment below with your insights, discoveries, and any recommendations you might have for our community!

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