Hello and Happy Friday! 

I hope you are managing to stay cool in this heat! It is a real challenge to do absolutely anything in these blistering temperatures, but if you have a moment (… to be a superhero), I wanted to share with you a few easy ways to preserve the “magic in the everyday” and help some of Ida’s friends who are also looking to cool off!

🐝 Small friends in the air
A simple dish of water on your windowsill with a few pebbles to grip is a lifeline for bees and insects in this heat. If you see a bumblebee lying still on hot pavement - don’t panic! - carefully move it to a flower in a shaded spot. A droplet of water with a little sugar would also be most appreciated.

🦊 Furry (and prickly) friends in the garden
It goes without saying that any container of water left outside will likely be used as an open bar or cold plunge (especially by those hedgehogs who are known to Carpe Diem). Just change it daily and make sure smaller creatures can get in and out safely e.g. by adding a stone. Soaked apple or pear pieces are a good way to keep birds hydrated, too! If you have a garden, hold off on trimming hedges and overgrown corners, as thicker, unpruned areas give birds somewhere to catch their breath and even take a well-earned siesta.

🐕 K-9 friends living the sweet life
Put out multiple water bowls and drop a few ice cubes in to keep it cold (and SUPER entertaining). Skip the midday walk (pavements are like stovetops on exposed paws!) For a treat, frozen watermelon (remove the rind and seeds) or cucumber chunks, or a little bone broth frozen into cubes, will keep them cool and encourage them to drink*.

(*of course, depending on dietary requirements)

🐈 Feline friends on the prowl
Cats are less impressed with immersing themselves in water - “juvenile,” some cats have said- so try dampening a small towel with cool water and dabbing it gently over their fur. White cats, or any light-furred animals, are particularly at risk of sunburn on their ears and above their nose so pet-safe sunscreen is a must!

You don't need a garden or a pet or endless free time to make the world a better place. It’s the small things that end up making a big difference!

With love, 

Nina xxx