August 2026
Books read: Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell Bel Canto by Ann Patchett East of Eden by John Steinbeck Trails walked: Yellowstone National Park camping (August 6-9) Mexico City (Aug 23-31) Song(s) of the month: Favorite songs about Mexico August Summary: This was a very different sort of rambling month. Although my knee seemed better, I didn't want to risk reinjuring it before two big August trips that we had planned. There was lots of walking this month, but no big epic mountain hikes (although climbing a centuries old pyramid felt pretty epic). The month started with a camping trip to Yellowstone with our son, daughter-in-law, and three grandsons. And it ended with my wife and I belatedly celebrating our 45th anniversary in Mexico City, a place we've always wanted to visit. I've described both trips below in more detail. I was incredibly saddened to hear of the death of Dolly Parton this month. She was the rare celebrity loved by all. She never revealed her politics and m...