Seasonal observations, nature notes, and homeschool reflections from the week outdoors.

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Nature Notes · High Summer

We had three very hot 95-degree days this week, and it felt different the moment we stepped outside. After a windy thunderstorm, everything seemed clear and fresh again. Some of the wildlife we usually notice has changed with the heat, while others remain the same. We also noticed how shade and water help keep parts of the yard cooler.


What We Noticed

  • Busy honeybees and bumblebees in our yard and at the park
  • Smaller white butterflies are flying now
  • Red ants in the bark mulch and black ants in the grass
  • A tiny baby slug nestled inside a pinecone in the pollinator home. Eww!
Honey Bee on Carrot Flower Close Up

Weather Conditions

Three very hot 95-degree days, followed by a thunderstorm and rain.

The air smells differently when it is hot and hazy.

Water is a great way to cool off.

Pea Plant with Flower Close Up

Field Notes

I watered the plants during the hot, dry days.

My pea plants have flowers now.

Some wild plants are growing through the fence into our yard.

Lilac Bush with Shadow on Fence

Wondering About

Why doesn’t the lilac’s shadow match the shape of the bush?

Reading Together

  • Thunder Cake – Patricia Polacco
  • Summer is Here – Will Hillenbrand
July Weekly field notes with Thunder Cake Book

Find our related seasonal book lists and story reflections at our blog: parMINDary.com


Return to the Field Journal main page to read more of our family nature observations.


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