Reading Log: October 2026

The books that I read this past month:

October 2026 Books: photo by Cliff Hutson

“North of Foothill,” Orlando Davidson 

“The Hallow,” Michael Connelly

American Frog Day

Amphibian Awareness 

Frog: photo by Cliff Hutson

American Frog Day, which is observed on October 26, was created to raise awareness of the environmental issues that frogs face, such as water pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. It's also a great opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their place in our natural world.

As the careful reader will have noticed, the setup of this blog is that I pick a topic, find a photograph in my oeuvre which will illustrate it, and then write a few words about it.

Some might think that this week's picture of a frog, that was in the garden when we bought the house, is rather lame for a discourse on actual frogs. I won't disagree. But, that has not stopped me from using it twice in the past - here and here.

Evaluate Your Life Day

L'heure du bilan  

Pain au chocolat: photo by Cliff Hutson

October 19th is Evaluate Your Life Day, it was created by Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays, a project known for unusual and thought-provoking observances. The purpose of this day is to encourage people to look at their lives with honesty and consider what is working, what needs improvement, and what should change.

The best that I could come up today is that my productivity is fueled by coffee, croissants, and self-respect. I was born into this world with the deck stacked against me, but I still made it. However, even at my advanced age, there can still be room for improvement.

US Holiday

Indigenous Peoples' Day 

Basket with Game Pieces: photo by Cliff Hutson

I am taking another day off by referencing something that I previously wrote about this contentious American holiday.

National Chili Week

 Another Food Holiday

A Bowl of Chili: photo by Cliff Hutson

National Chili Week is observed during the first full week of October. The intent is to  encourage people to cook their favorite version of the historic red stew. Chili is made with spices and meat. Beans or other ingredients can be added according to the cook’s predilection.

My relatives in Texas say that the addition of beans is a nonstarter. I can go either way depending on how I feel when I decide to cook it. I always serve it with cheese and onion; and, most often, saltine crackers.

By the way, if you are really into the dish, the month of October is National Chili Month.