Outdoor cinema

July became a movie marathon month for me, but what truly deserves the title of this month’s discovery isn't a title though. This July, I had a plan to hit New Holland Island’s open-air cinema for a new experience – watching some great classics while having a picnic out on a warm summer night. Long story short, it wasn’t like that – at all; but nevertheless I enjoyed the experience. It was The Fifth Element (1997) night – the film of my childhood – and it hit differently watching it on a big screen, in a scenic spot, and surrounded by all those people who bring up the “Multipass” meme in and out of season. It was worth it for sure – even all the waiting out the downpour under a roof and the in-between rain run sessions. – Marina

Nizhny Novgorod

In July, I had the chance to finally see the fabled capital of sunsets that, in my bubble at least, everyone seemed to be talking about. It was a joy of a trip! I loved walking the ups and downs of its hills (but the famous Chkalov Stairs made me remember Kung Fu Panda, not gonna lie), exploring the Novgorod Kremlin, and, of course, admiring the vastness of Volga and Oka rivers. 

My one mistake, though, was that I packed for the rain promised in the forecast, while in actuality we were met with 30+ degrees and scorching sun. Let me tell you, sunburn is quite a souvenir to be taking home – it makes the train ride back so much more comfortable! Jokes aside, I truly enjoyed this trip and I look forward to visiting the city again for longer than a weekend, to explore it more thoroughly. – Catherine

Running

My love for sports comes and goes. I used to be able to jog for miles without much effort, but that was years ago. Inspired by the good weather and a nearby public stadium, I decided to take up running again.

It took me a while to get used to it. At first, I alternated between running and brisk walking. But after about a month, I made progress and my stamina improved.

It’s so nice to have those 30 minutes just for yourself: your thoughts, your music, and no distractions. – Kseniia

Freestyle gardening

I’ve always wanted to have some plants at home. What’s always scared me off, however, is the overwhelming amount of research and learning that seems to come with it. Am I using the right kind of pot? What’s the correct way to replant, feed, and prune? There seems to be so much information out there, all conflicting and oh-so-comprehensive, that this hobby starts to feel less relaxing and more like a second job.

The solution? Just wing it. This summer, I’ve decided to put my trust in the resilient nature of, well, nature. Armed with just the basic info – how water-loving it is, how much sun it prefers, and so on – I’ve acquired a bunch of plants and simply did my best to give them the environment and care they needed. Indeed, some struggled, but others flourished; and now, whenever I admire my money tree, brew up some lavender tea, or sprinkle fresh basil over pasta, I’m glad I allowed myself to be a little unprepared. – Vadim

Wooly detectives

For my summer read, my English teacher recommended Three Bags Full. Imagine the Irish countryside, green meadows, and the mysterious murder of a shepherd to solve – what more could you ask for? The best part is that the detectives aren't some tired policemen, but a flock of sheep. The author gives each one a personality with unique skills, charming quirks, and even a dark past. One particularly clever touch is the way the sheep interpret the human world: they don’t understand concepts like religion or a graveyard, but they have an extraordinary sense of smell and can read people through scents. I'm only halfway through the book, but it's already one of the most original cozy mysteries I've ever come across. – Elizaveta