Brilliant star overhead, ID poison oak, lily care

This is an archived issue of our Almanac.com Companion email newsletter.

Daily Newsletter for Tuesday, August 1, 2017

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goldenrod

And from the hot field’s farthest edge
The cricket’s soft refrain
With mellow accent tells the tale
That August’s here again.
–Helen Maria Winslow (1851–1938)

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Star Vega Shines Bright Overhead on July Nights
Star Vega Shines Bright Overhead on July Nights
Away from city lights in mid-July, one could see as many as 2,500 naked eye stars. But only one star stands out because it’s the only bright star directly overhead—and that’s Vega. This brilliant blue-white star is a favorite of stargazers and astronomers.
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How not to rely on the plumber?

Let’s face it: toilets may not be the sexiest appliance in your home but they are one of the most important. Make sure you have the best, the one that eliminates calls to the plumber and stays clean.
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Lilies
Lilies
Everyone loves lilies. With large, showy blooms, lilies add striking elegance to the yard and garden from early to midsummer. Grown from bulbs, lilies are perennial flowers that will return year after year and require minimal care, provided that you plant them in the right place. 
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The 2018 Old Farmer's Almanac Weather Watcher's Calendar

Features amazing photography, weather proverbs, historical weather events, and trivia! 
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August Birthstone: Color and Meaning
August Birthstone: Color and Meaning
August’s birthstone, the peridot, is a light green, ancient, cosmic birthstone that has been found in volcanic lava in Hawaii—and in meteorites that have fallen to Earth. The Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the Sun” and believed it had special healing powers.
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The 2018 Old Farmer's Almanac Gardening Calendar

Our perennial best-seller!
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August Birth Flowers
August Birth Flowers
August’s bright, showy flowers capture the essence of sunny, late summer days! Learn the meanings behind August’s two birth flowers. 
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The 2018 Old Farmer's Almanac Everyday Calendar

Start each day with a tidbit of Almanac fun: weather wisdom, quirky historical facts, useful hints, and time-tested proverbs. 

 
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Poison Oak: Identification and Treatment
Poison Oak: Identification and Treatment
“Leaves of three, let it be!” “Hairy vine, no friend of mine!” Learn how to spot poison oak, tell the difference between poison oak and poison ivy, and treat a poison oak rash. 
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The 2018 Old Farmer's Almanac Moon Calendar

Features dramatic images of the Moon!

 
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