Reccomendations for July

Books

Beloved orderly Cecibel Bringer works among elderly famous writers and not so famous editors and copy editors in a restored seaside mansion dedicated to the care of retired employees of New York and Boston publishing houses. Literary lion Alfonse Carducci arrives in May, knowing that 1999 will be the last summer of his life. In the severely disfigured Cecibel, Alfonse finds a muse who inspires him to write again. When residents Olivia and Switch read his notebook, they each take on a character and the story grows. Former editor, Judith, pulls out her red pencil, cleaning it up. In Alfonse Carducci, Cecibel finds hope, possibly a new life. The Bar Harbor Retirement Home for Famous Writers (and Their Muses) by Terri-Lynne DeFino is novel inside of a novel that flourishes inside a retirement home. Readers will love it.

Request these books any month of the year at your local library or bookstore.  

Maureen Millea Smith is a librarian at the Edina Library and a Minnesota Book Award-winning novelist.

Sips

Sure, it’s fun to take a long summer road trip, travel the country and visit other states—but there is something that feels just right about staying close to home during Minnesota’s summers months. This summer, I invite you to soak in the best of these hot summer days with a visit to Minnesota’s wine country. Did you know that our state has over 77 wineries? So take a day trip to one of the newest wineries on the scene, 7 Vines Vineyard. Located in Dellwood, this gorgeous estate has everything you need to enjoy a day in the sun—stunning views, weekend music, delicious food and mouthwatering wines. Try the 2017 La Crescent from their tasting room while you’re there. Fresh green apple, crunchy cold cut pear, kiwi, brûléed lemon rind and starfruit make way for one perfect pairing to all things summer!

Leslee Miller is a certified sommelier and owner of local wine consulting firm, Amusee; and Sip Better Wine Club

Pets

Help Fido feel safe, not stressed, this Independence Day.

1. Give him something to focus on like a stuffed Kong or frozen treat. A tasty distraction can take focus off the fireworks.

2. Watch the table scraps during backyard barbecues. Don’t let guests feed your dog something they shouldn’t, like onions.

3. Introduce your dog to similar noises early and slowly.
 
5. Talk to your vet about products that can help your pet cope with stress. Rescue Remedy is an all natural product that can help your pet relax.

6. Stay calm. Dogs can sense when we’re feeling panicky and will mirror those attitudes.

7. Secure your fenced in area so dogs aren’t able to dig under or jump over. Also, a constant barrage of unfamiliar noises can be scary and may cause an unexpected accident ... oops!

8. Inside is best. Even if your dogs don’t seem bothered by the noise and crowds, you can never know for sure if they are completely comfortable. Better to be safe than sorry!

Ann Platt is owner of Pets Are Inn, an award winning pet lodging business in Edina.