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Some like it hot (but not me)



If I wanted 90-degree heat, I would have moved to NC years ago, when I was actually toying with that idea that I might not live in PA my entire life. During the winters, I tend to complain about the cold probably fewer than half a dozen times. Unless it is in single digits or unless sub-freezing temps go on for months and months, I don't mind the cold so much. I often enjoy a walk outside in 30- or even 20-degree temps. But once it gets this hot and humid, it is not as if I can peel my skin off.


Yesterday, Bri, Jordan and I went to the zoo. We had bought tickets about a month ago through the alumni association; great deal, which also included lunch and a zoo tour. Had we not done this, there is no way I would have been there yesterday. I wondered what all those people were thinking. When they woke up, did a father say to a mother, "Hey, it's going to be in the low 90s today. Let's drag our three kids out in the heat and walk up all the hills and watch a bunch of animals sleep. Yeah, sounds like fun." Actually, it was not all that bad. Sure, we were hot and sweaty, but Jordan managed to walk almost the entire time, and we were able to see everything in just over two hours without racing. I thought the new polar bear exhibit was great, and we saw the sea lions (or were they seals? Yep, I am pretty clueless) doing tricks. The zoo really is a great place, one that we try to visit once a year. Next year, I plan to go in the spring or fall, however.


Yesterday we also got out Jordan's inflatable pool, a must-have for children. She splashed around that thing for an hour or more and then got back in later in the evening. I would never want the maintenance of a pool, but with this, once Jordan is done swimming, we can use the water for the plants, so not so bad. Plus, I can sit on the swing and relax while she splashes around, so everyone wins!


And there is always AC. I have never been without AC, and frankly, I don't know how people get by without it. I don't need it super cool; we typically keep ours around 74, but I just don't think I could sleep if my house was in the 80s. Unless it was in April or early May, and on principle alone, I would refuse to turn the air on. We made it until the first week in June this year, so I am okay with that.


The other thing about the heat is it makes you tired. Right not my kid is napping. The last time she napped in this house, I think we had probably a dozen or more presidential candidates. And then there was two. Regardless, I should probably take this time to figure out what I can get Brian for Father's Day so we don't have a repeat of his birthday. Wish me luck; I am accepting suggestions...
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