Brenda Donegan

For my gardening friends and farmers − how are your crops, flowers and vegetables handling this heat? Before the heat, we had tons of rain and I worried about root rot. In fact, the heavy rains practically destroyed my hanging baskets. I took them down and nursed them somewhat back to health in the carport.

I thought for just a moment I would share some of my favorite July 4 memories growing up. Events would start about 10 a.m. at the local school − we didn’t have city parks back then − with a variety of kids games appropriate to age groups. Some I remember were the two-legged sack race, ring toss, relay race and more. Most families would find a shady place, spread out a blanket and have a picnic lunch.

I attended an outdoor wedding June 29. It was rather warm, so I decided to wear a sleeveless dress. I had a medical procedure the day before and knew the dress would be more comfortable at the surgical site. To say I was shocked when I arrived and saw the attire on other attendees would be an understatement.

Because of a surgery I had last week to remove a tumor in my leg, I was advised to limit walking, lifting, strenuous exercise and only light housekeeping chores for the next two weeks. Bored to the bone from working crossword puzzles, strolling through social media, watching TV and doing jigsaw puzzles, I decided I would look for back-to-school specials and ideas and perhaps buy a few things for my 10 great-grandchildren for school.

The Marion Star Just Musing: It's back-to-school time - already - and that means fall sports, too Link Copied

One of my biggest dislikes are spider webs. I know fall brings them out in bunches, but this past Monday I walked into my first one as I walked out to the carport to get in my car. I can feel it yet as it touched my face. Eek, what a horrible feeling. I have no clue why Mr. Spider decided he needed a web between my front fender and the storage closet. Thank God he was outside and not in the house.

Today is the autumnal equinox, or better known as the first day of fall. Daylight hours have been decreasing since the summer solstice and will continue slowly decreasing until the winter solstice around Dec. 21.

Early voting for the 2024 presidential election has already begun. If you were not one of the early birds, I ask that you spend time studying the qualities and platform of both candidates and hopefully make a decision based on what is best for all residents of the United States − not just those of one party or the other for your personal preferences.

It's time to pay tribute to our nation's veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Christmas is not just about presents. It is about sharing, reflecting and loving. If Christmas isn’t in your heart, you won’t find it under a tree