1. Mormans are allowed to consume caffeine, just not “hot drinks” (so coffee and tea are out, but soda and energy drinks are permitted).

2. Gary D. Schmidt has a Pilgrim’s Progress retelling. (I haven’t read it, but I’ve loved some of his other books, like The Wednesdsay Wars and Pay Attention, Carter Jones.)

3. The Scholé Sisters have a book coming out in November: Scholé Every Day: How to Be a Thinking Mom.

4. A “dit name” is an alternative surname adopted by some French-Canadian families (including that of Joseph Montferrand).

5. Borax is used as a flux in forge welding because it prevents oxidation so the metals can join smoothly. (Blacksmiths at historical villages are always so interesting.)

6. Nine villages and a populated island were permanently submerged when the St. Lawrence Seaway was created in the 1950s.

7. I realized on a short hike on the last day of the month that I need new shoes/boots for hiking, as well as a toddler carrier. (We already borrowed a carrier and I have my eye on some hiking boots that are on sale. Thrifting may be in my future as well.)

What did you learn in August?