Thinking Out Loud
Summer Song

July 13, 2013
By: Diane Szczepanski

"Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it." ~ Russel Baker

My hairstyle this week has looked atrocious and I couldn't be happier.

The dense heat and ensuing humidity may have made my locks limp and the worse for wear, but not my spirit. My spirit is invigorated this time of year!

It would not truly be July, in its full oppressive glory, if we didn't have opportunity wallow in muggy interludes of the dog days of summer.

All as we watch our manicured, lush grass turn brown in resigned inevitability, yet concealed glee, for we know our mowing days are at a temporary standstill.

Can we really say we have experienced the full domination of the high in the sky sun, if we haven't had the chance to sprawl ourselves in front of a blessed box fan and be soothed by its whirring promise of cooling relief?

Has it really been the season of flip-flops, if we haven't wiped our sticky brows, tended to sunburns and sought the respite of the nearest shade tree at one point or another?

The things that make this season so enjoyable, are the things we suffer as we go through it.

Mosquito bites, thunderstorms, bee stings heat advisories, burning pavement, steamy car interiors, running mascara and droopy hair.

Oh, how I love this time of year. When the icy cold of February's grip has me seeking blankets and hot cocoa, I will retrieve the memory of a hot July day with sand between my toes and a cold beverage by my side.

I leave you now to go grab sunscreen and my ponytail holder, the July version of getting "gussied up", with every intent of suffering through another outdoor picnic.

Viva la summer!