The Old Farmer’s almanac lists the traditional period of the Dog Days as the 40 days beginning July 3rd and ending August 11th, coinciding with the ancient (at sunrise) rising of the Dog Star, Sirius. These are the days of the year with the least rainfall in the Northern Hemisphere. Least? I don’t know if global warming affected that or not, but as I type today in Toronto, Canada- it has been raining - off and on.
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| My Dog Finn epitomizes the Dog Days |
According to the 1552 edition of the The Book of Common Prayer the "Dog Daies" begin July 6th and end August 17th, just a little fluctuation there. This corresponds very closely to the 1611 edition of the King James Bible (also called the Authorized version of the Bible) which indicates the Dog Days beginning on July 6th and ending on September 5th, okay... another variation.
Basically, it’s the most sultry period of summer. In the latitude of the Mediterranean region, this period coincided with hot days that were plagued with disease and discomfort. Of course anyone who grew up without air conditioning can relate - regardless of global location.
To me, it’s the time when you wish to be at a cottage retreat, the thrills of summer city life are slowest and yard sales are starting to get boring. It’s also the time that I affectionately refer to as “summer fading”. A solemn
peak period before nature matures and back to school shopping begins.
In reflection of the winter of 2013-14, I for one, am going to relish every dry heat moment this period is offering us. I’m going to surrender myself to the ripe floral blossoms, thick foliage and the sweetness of morning coffee outside.... Cuz it just ain’t gonna get any better!
Please take a look at EW's Fading issue, available online soon. www.energyworksmagazine.com
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