These Dog-Melting Days

Onward, by all means toward simplicity

Will’s Wildflower Garden has turned into a refuge for rescued milkweed plants to help our pollinators, but Emily discovered one of the Sweet Williams that visit us every two or three years.

We don't do much during these hottest days of high summer, but I love them so. Samwise, Emily, and I are not made for these sweltering conditions, so we spend most of the day in the air conditioning. Strange as it may seem, it is as cozy as staying inside during a January nor'easter. It's one of the reasons this is my favorite writing season. We can handle wind, extreme cold, snow, ice, and pretty much anything but these steamy days. We'd all wilt if not careful.

But here's what I love about them…

Early, before the mercury has climbed too far up the thermometer, we walk the trails, choosing those close by rivers, streams, and ponds. The air is already thick, but it is so fragrant it’s as if the warmth is opening all the seductive pulse points on the plants. I stop and breathe the inspiration in.

With a…