I don’t typically choose my topics or themes ahead of time; I don’t make many set plans when I’m solo. My roommate wrote me a birthday poem once, and in it, she said, “she knows the plans best made, probably made before her,” and that is how I live my life. I let fate guide me. Or, in last month’s case, Mercury Retrograde (July 17 – August 11, 2025) may have played a factor. I could tell my fear, worry, and neuroses were in full swing, or maybe it’s just the turn of events in the world that keeps us in a constant state of uncertainty and at times very concerned for tomorrow. Just to educate on what that means for us believers, Mercury Retrograde occurs when the planet appears to move backward in the sky from our perspective on Earth. This phenomenon supposedly creates important shifts in one’s life: reflection and introspection, revisiting past decisions, realigning with your values, analyzing what is working and what isn’t. I think believing in new beginnings or a fresh start in a way helps us navigate from the darkness or hardships to see the light. Isn’t that what everyone is really looking for, hope?

By the way, I have pneumonia again and cried twice this morning, so is there a retrograde for that?

In reviewing all my adventures last month, I soaked in and consumed a lot of mercury, ironically…in the way of seafood. This was not really planned, but here we are in the summer-sun-beach feels, basking in all its glory as we slurp down oysters, consume some tasty bevies, & contemplate love, loss, renewal, and, of course, the best next course; food or path-wise. Cheers, bebés!

Music Cue: In a Black Out by Hamilton Leithauser & Rostam