Recently, during my weekly Q&A session, I was asked if corn sweat is a real thing. And if you're scratching your head thinking, What in the world is corn sweat?—you might not live in the Midwest.

In recent years, there has been increasing buzz about the term "corn sweat" during the humid heat of summer. It occurs when the corn undergoes a process called evapotranspiration, pulling moisture up through its roots and releasing it through its leaves as vapor, which causes high humidity. This is especially true in areas with a higher density of corn production, such as Iowa. Yes, corn sweat is real, but it's nothing new. We just finally gave it a name (and something to blame!).

And now you know something you maybe didn't know before!

July has been humid. Really humid. But it's also been wet—and that part, I love. While high heat usually brings dry days, this month's rain has kept everything lush and green. As I sit here writing, I'm looking out over a garden that's growing beautifully. And even though I'm not a fan of the thick heat, it's hard to be mad when the plants are thriving.

July was full and busy. I spent some time out East with friends, hosted my sister and her family from Virginia for their summertime visit, and weeded a lot.

As the year passes, I'm reminded of the routines and cycles of the garden, and how they ground me. Even when I feel behind, there's a rhythm to it all that's oddly reassuring, even comforting.

Thankfully, this newsletter is a chance to sit back and catch up over coffee. At this point, I probably don't even have to tell you that mine is a delicious shaken espresso.

Let's talk about food.

July is when summer flavors truly shine. Here are the recipes I've been making and loving lately:

​Italian Margarita​ A fun take on the classic, made with Disarrono, that everyone loves! All drink recipes

​Homemade Ratatouille​ A great way to use up the produce of late summer! All summer recipes

​Canned Dill Pickles​ When cucumbers are ready, this is the recipe to make to enjoy later in the year! Canning recipes

​Fresh Tomato Galette​ If you have too many tomatoes on hand, this galette is the recipe to make! More tomato recipes

​Peach Crisp​ I look forward to when peaches are in season each year. This is the dessert to bake! Dessert recipes

Let's talk about life lately.

For about a week in mid-July, I visited the east end of Long Island and spent my days at the beach, taking in nature's beauty, and enjoying incredible food at numerous new restaurants (total food inspiration!). I came home feeling somewhat rested but definitely creatively recharged.

I recorded a podcast with the wonderful Amanda and Katie of Amber Waves Farm. Make sure to listen to the podcast or watch it on YouTube!

Meanwhile, we're deep in the process of finishing up this year's Holiday Guide magazine! Every year, I say, This is the best one yet—and this time, I really mean it. I've narrowed down all the cookie recipe submissions (thank you!), and they're being tested one by one. This part of the guide is going to be extra special, and I think you'll love it. I'll be notifying everyone whose recipe is included in September!

Let's talk about the garden.

Years with high amounts of rain bring a lot of beauty, but also some hardships. The yard is lush and lovely, but the vegetable beds are feeling some of the effects, as they don't always thrive in the abundant rain. The peppers are stressed, some leaves are dropping, and a few disease issues have popped up. Still, there's new growth showing, and with a bit of drier weather, they might bounce back.

The tomato plants are thriving, but as the fruit ripens, it's best to have less water so the sugars concentrate.

I've already started my fall brassicas indoors and will plant them out in the raised beds soon. The old saying goes, 'Wet or dry, have your fall garden planted by July 25th.' I'm not quite going to make it, but that's okay. The garden has a way of working things out.

Let's talk about Kip.

Kip celebrated his 7th birthday the other day! How is he already 7 years old? I'm amazed at all the events we've been through together. It feels like we're just getting started, and as if he has been a part of my life forever.

He celebrated with his favorite cookie, a new pretzel-shaped squeaky toy, plenty of outdoor frisbee time, and of course—lots of snuggles.

A day doesn't go by without me saying, 'What would I do with you, Kip?' (yes, I often talk out loud to him). He loves it, I'm sure!

That's all for this month! I hope your July was as fun-filled and celebratory as mine. We'll catch up at the end of next month with plenty of info about the food I'm making and how the garden is growing! Talk to you then!