Summertime in Texas

Summer came early this year. Its been Texas hot, only it started earlier than its supposed to. We know we will have to deal with 100+ degree heat for at least 10 -20 days a summer, but when it starts in early June, you know you're in for a long one. Every spring, I can't wait for the last frost so I can plant my many containers of flowers and foliage. I dutifully water every day, even as it gets hotter and hotter. Finally, during the dog days of August, I give up and let the Texas heat burn them up, unwilling to subject myself to the daily sweat soaking you get from the 10-15 min it takes to water them all! This year, I am determined to prevail. I have begun working out every morning. When I am finished, I rinse off with a quick dip in the pool. This morning, instead of hurrying back in doors out of the heat, I took my towel and sat on the edge of the far side of the pool in the shade. Suddenly, I became aware of a distinct sound. It is the sound of summer in the hot dry southwest. The sound of cicada bugs in the trees. The sound took me back to my childhood, and hot, dry afternoons in Arizona. I relaxed, and began to splash my feet in the water, revelling in the moment. Suddenly, the 100 degree morning didn't seem so bad! I began to actually see the beauriful garden around me, and the home my husband and I built to raise our children in. I noticed the beautiful little blue flowers under the tree I was sitting by. I watched a butterfly enjoying a trumpet vine flower. I looked up into the huge blue dome over me and gave thanks for my life and family and home. Finally, reluctantly, I gathered up my towel and returned to the house and the chores therein. I know some people don't like the sound of cicadas. but for me they are the sound of carefree childhood summer!