July to August is considered the dog days of summer – going back to ancient times when it marked the rise of the dog star Sirius in the sky– and also coincides with a period of really hot weather. And we are well into it these days experiencing a lot of 30C-plus days.
Some are taking time off, going to the beach or to the lake, getting away from the heat in the towns and cities. They are looking forward to summer activities, barbequing on the beach and just being lazy as they enjoy the good weather.
For those of us who do not do well in the heat, we are hiding away in air conditioning or looking for places to cool off like the local pool.
For me it is the time the year I get some intense writing done while I hibernate with my air conditioner. I wilt in hot weather. I have the kind of skin that burns really fast. I spend my outdoor time in the summer in a sun-proof hat, sunglasses, layers of sunscreen and desperately seeking shade. So, I take advantage of my heat intolerance, stay inside, crank up the a/c and write. I am working on a new book and while everyone is outside having summer fun, I have plenty of peace and quiet to write.
How do you spend the dog days of summer? Do you bask in the sun’s rays – preferably with sunscreen on – or splash in the pool? Canoeing? Water skiing? Sailing? Or do you hide out where it is cool and write like me? You can comment below.
