When we're under a heat advisory, there are a few things that will refresh me: air conditioning, a glass of cool water, and a good belly laugh. Sometimes, when I'm outside in the morning, it's the creatures who entertain me: the tenacious birds pursuing a mate, the hilarious appearance of a cat face inside a hedge that looks like something from Alice in Wonderland, or a squirrel who's got itself into a pickle and is twirling around a bird feeder!

Incidentally, I've recently learned that Monday, August 8th is International Cat Day! Records about cats date back to Ancient Egypt, where they were regarded as gods and also protectors against snakes, scorpions and evil. Although some people today consider cats to be effective for pest control, they're more widely appreciated as comedic diversions and stress-relievers.

In the shop, our kitty stickers, stamps and cards frequently sell out quickly. Feline-themed stationery comes in many styles: cute and adorable, funny, and some very graceful and beautiful depictions.

Now, if it's fast cats you want to see, you're in luck this month. Niagara is hosting the Canada Summer Games from August 6th through the 21st. During the games, over 5,000 athletes will participate in eighteen sports, including basketball in Welland, cycling in Pelham and at Brock University, rowing at the Henley in St. Catharines, and tennis in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. A new venue (right here in Thorold!) called the Canada Games Park will be the venue for several sports, including athletics, beach volleyball, and box lacrosse.

What's your favourite sport to watch? Sailing in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Or perhaps you enjoy cheering on endurance athletes, like the triathletes in Welland or the mountain bike cyclists at Twelve Mile Creek.

We recently listened to a podcast episode where a marathoner said they're struggling in their race, then saw a sign in the crowd with a motivational phrase that gave them the boost they needed to get to the finish line. You never know who you'll affect positively when you show up to cheer others on.

We hope you feel refreshed this week. Maybe you'll see a critter doing something ridiculous. Or maybe you'll get your heart pumping while cheering someone on to victory.

Go athletes, go!

August 02, 2022 — Antoinette D'Angelo

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