We’ve made it to the end of July ... and amid the ongoing pandemic state, we continue to wonder what things will look like moving forward. We know things will look different but I think for many the uncertainties are what continues to stress us all out … at least for me it does. I think for that reason also, we all need to focus on just being nice to each other. I feel like our little community does that well … we look out for each other and help out as best we can. If not for us adults, we need to do it for our children.

There are many ongoing activities occurring to keep some normalcy for our kids.

The Wildlands Conservancy continues with activities including Science in Nature 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 22. The event is geared for those aged five through 10 and is free to attend, but does require registration on their website. What will you create with the ability to unearth the thrill of science, technology and engineering and the beauty of the natural world? Wildlands will incorporate STEM activities and many hands-on experiments and investigations to discover the possibilities. Wildlands offers many other events on their website.

The Lehigh Valley Zoo is again open for visitors, of course with social distancing requirements and with some modifications. The zoo will hold a Christmas in July event July 25 and will feature a day packed with holiday-themed fun, special Giving Tree promotions and Christmas in July deals at the Nature Store Gift Shoppe. Featured will be holiday-themed crafts and an Elf on the Shelf Photo safari. Visit the Lehigh Valley Zoo website for any changes in procedures before you go so you are prepared.

When all else fails, think back to your own childhood and think about what we loved to do … I mean, who doesn’t love a good water balloon fight, running through a sprinkler or even checking out some of the many local farms that are starting to offer pick your own? My kids love picking blueberries, peaches and they look forward to apples in the fall even though they are getting older and sometimes need ... encouragement to participate.

The recent PPL event to be hosted by Eastern Salisbury Fire Department and held at Harry S Truman Elementary School was canceled by PPL due to the ongoing pandemic status. PPL said they will reschedule; however, most likely not until next year. Eastern Salisbury Fire Department would like to say thank you to those who responded and hope they see you when the event is rescheduled.

Both of the township drop-off sites are open and alternating weeks for your recycling convenience. The Devonshire site is open the week of July 20 and the Franko Farm site is open the week of July 27. The sites are open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday and Thursday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

“You can’t make half a sandwich, if it’s not half of a whole sandwich, it’s just a small sandwich.” Sheldon Cooper, The Big Bang Theory.