This Week with The Old Farmer’s Almanac

June 29–July 5, 2009
June 29 First Quarter Moon July 1 Canada Day		June 29, 30 Best days to cut hair to encourage growth July 1, 2 Best days to plant aboveground crops
Dog Days of Summer
July’s Dog Days commence on July 3. They are named for the Dog Star, Sirius, in the constellation Canis Major. Sirius starts shining brightly at this time of year, and it rises in the east at about the same time as the Sun. The ancient Egyptians thought that the star was responsible for the heat and blamed it for any droughts, sickness, and discomfort that occurred. The Dog Days traditionally start on July 3 and end on August 11, which may or may not be when the hot, humid weather ends.
Dog Days Iced Tea
6 bags black tea (e.g., Earl Grey, English Breakfast) 2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 cup mint leaves, divided 1-1/2 cups chilled orange juice 1 orange, sliced 1 lemon, sliced ice cubes Brew a strong tea in about 6 cups of water. While still hot, add sugar and about a dozen mint leaves. Let cool; remove tea bags and mint. Add orange juice, fruit slices, and ice. Serve over more ice, garnished with fresh mint leaves; add a fruit slice or two to each glass. Makes 6 servings.
Wit and Wisdom from The Old Farmer’s Almanac
Wednesday clearing, clear till Sunday. To help repel fleas on your pets, add brewer’s yeast to pet food. On July 3, 1608, Quebec City was founded by Samuel de Champlain. If you would like to receive information about how to order these weekly columns for your publication, go to our Press Room.