Zen in Nature

09/05/2026

08/17/2026

Americans pulled back on spending in July, and the latest numbers are giving economists something new to watch.

U.S. retail sales fell 0.6% in July, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It was the first monthly decline in retail sales in nine months and the biggest drop since May 2025.

The decline came after unusually strong spending earlier in the summer, including the boost from tax refunds, the World Cup and Amazon's Prime Day, which took place in June this year.

Some categories saw notable declines, including online sales and auto-related purchases. At the same time, spending increased in areas such as restaurants, clothing and some specialty retailers.

The bigger question now is whether July was simply a temporary pause or a sign that American consumers are becoming more cautious.

Major retailers including Walmart, Target and Home Depot are reporting results this week, which could provide another important look at how households are handling prices and their budgets.

What are you seeing where you live? Are people spending normally, or cutting back?

08/16/2026

Hawaii Hit by Hurricane Lala as Thousands Lose Power and Flooding Spreads

Hawaii is facing the aftermath of Hurricane Lala after the storm battered the islands with powerful winds, intense rain and dangerous flooding.

Lala weakened to a tropical storm after passing the Big Island without making landfall, but the storm continued to bring hurricane-force gusts and heavy rainfall across parts of Hawaii.

Nearly 130,000 utility customers were without power Sunday, with the Big Island, Honolulu County and Maui County among the areas affected. Crews have faced difficult conditions as flooding, fallen trees and damaged infrastructure complicate restoration efforts.

Officials also reported significant flooding, damaged homes and dangerous road conditions. At least one person died in a car-related incident during the storm, according to Reuters.

Forecasters warned that some higher elevations could receive as much as 35 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding and mudslides.

Although Lala has weakened, authorities continue to urge residents to remain cautious as dangerous conditions persist.

Our thoughts are with everyone in Hawaii dealing with the storm and its aftermath.