Friday, January 30, 2009

My Favorite Season

Summer has always been my favorite month. Think about that for a moment. Yes, someone did say that. (Anyone from Minnesota?)

My inlaws were here for dinner on Sunday, as they always are. Often we sit on the front porch before we eat, and eat our meal on the back deck. I love being outdoors. My father-in-law came in and said, "I don't think I'm going to sit outside. It's too hot!" I had to chuckle. This is the same man who lived in Phoenix for the past 40+ years. I recall visiting him in the summer. In the late afternoons, when I thought it couldn't possibly get any hotter, he'd grab himself a frosty mug of ice cold beer, go outside in the heat, and read the newspaper.

Now for some, this might not seem like a big deal. If that is the case, you've never been to Arizona in the summer. Barefoot in the park? Nobody goes barefoot, except for a visitor to the area who doesn't realize that one step on the hot sidewalk is equivalent to standing in a frying pan while it is heated on the stove. I tell you, Phoenix in the summer is hotter than hot.

For Sarabeth's 1st birthday, we were in Arizona. We planned an outdoor party at my inlaws. With the backyard pool, those who wanted to could cool off. That's another laugh. The water temperature in the pool is easily in the upper 80's, so it isn't terribly cool or refreshing. It's like diving into a deep bath tub sauna. The day of her party, the temperature soared to 119 degrees. But we sweated it out. I can't believe we were out there for hours. The following day, it was 122 degrees. I do believe we could have cooked an egg on the sidewalk had we tried.

So that my friends, it why I love Colorado. My favorite season doesn't encompass 7 months. I appreciate the heat of summer after the snow in winter. Life without change is boring.
(This was written in July, but was never posted. With the stretch of cold weather, I enjoy thoughts of summer.)

6 comments:

Heth said...

You know I'm right there with ya. Bring on the summer!

Paula said...

I lived in the Phoenix area for 9 years so I know EXACTLY what you mean! Which is why I love Michigan. Actually, I enjoy winter--you can always put on warm clothes and go for a walk outdoors, but you really can't do much to get cool in the heat.

Anonymous said...

I love summer too. I don't even mind when it's in the 90's. But 122? Oh man, that is hot! And it would be super fun to try frying an egg on the sidewalk.

Anonymous said...

I've not thought that far ahead... I'm just waiting for the spring thaw!

Mylinda said...

Hey, can you send some snow to So. Florida?? lol

Kristin said...

Yup -- CO sounds a lot like NH. I say summer is a lull between snowstorms here! (As for AZ -- UGH! I would die in that kind of heat; I'm a winter lover.)