If your family is anything like mine, then you already know….right before a big event, someone is bound to get sick. This time, it’s my husband. So while he naps in his recliner and I tiptoe around trying to keep things quiet, I’m slowly reshaping our 4th of July plans for Friday into something a little more low-key.

No crowded events or loud fireworks this year. Just grilled burgers, some gooey s’mores, and a slower pace that feels more like a cozy summer evening than a full-blown celebration. Honestly, I’m not mad about it.

In the quiet moments between flipping burgers and passing out marshmallows, I will be working on my July TBR list—which, let’s be honest, might be slightly out of control. I’ve somehow convinced myself that I can get through nearly 20 books this month, and I’m not sure if I should be proud or worried.

But while my husband rests and the house stays (mostly) calm, I’ll be doing what I do best: reading too many books at once and pretending I can actually finish them all before the month is over.

Whatever your holiday plans look like, loud and bright or soft and slow, I hope it brings you peace, comfort, and maybe even a little extra reading time.