July is bringing the heat! The July edition of The Old Farmer’s Almanac Monthly magazine shares facts, fun, and advice for how to survive the summer heat and have a good time! Here are a few fascinating facts that might pique your interest.
Five Fascinating Facts from July’s Almanac Monthly Magazine
1. This month’s Full Buck Moon got its name because it occurred when male deer started growing new antlers. It is also known as the Full Thunder Moon because thunderstorms are frequent during this month.
2. July gives us 3 days of independence: Canada Day (July 1), U.S. Independence Day (July 4), and France’s Bastille Day (July 14).
3. July’s birthstone, the ruby, was regarded by ancient Hindus as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. To cure indigestion, rubies were once ground into powder and then placed on the tongue. Today, the ruby’s deep-red color signifies love and passion.
4. The July Right-Hand Calendar Page in the Almanac has, for centuries, carried this notice on a midmonth day: “Cornscateous air is everywhere.” Old-time almanac makers used it to signify a time in July when the air is damp and warm. Farmers consider this weather ideal for growing corn, but it can pose a serious health risk to those suffering from asthma, pneumonia, or other respiratory illnesses.
5. July 3 marks the beginning of the Dog Days of summer. This 40-day period traditionally brings the year’s hottest and unhealthiest weather. These days once coincided with the year’s heliacal (at sunrise) rising of the Dog Star, Sirius. Ancient folks thought that the “combined heat” of Sirius and the Sun caused summer’s swelter.
Check out The Old Farmer’s Almanac Monthly magazine online here, or check it out on iTunes here!
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