The Nature of Summer

Keeping cool

“The summer came and went quickly, which is the nature of summer for people who are not children . . .”
— Jim Harrison, Brown Dog

I don’t mind the passing of summer because autumn, which follows on its heels, is my favorite season of the year.  I love sweater weather.

Summer Breezes

A slight breeze lifts the curtains in the window

Old fan on the window sill

Hot summer days

Summer days in Minnesota mean heat and humidity.  Any little breeze helps.  We draw the shades in the windows and at night set up fans in the windows to blow the hot air out of the house and draw the cooler air in.  But there is nothing like a summer storm to clear the air, until the humidity inevitably climbs again.

Storm front passes through

Rain clouds build up

From Hiroshima to Hope

From Hiroshima to Hope, a peace celebration at Green Lake

Kimono-clad for the celebration of peace

I attended an event last evening at Green Lake, From Hiroshima to Hope, to help remember victims of war and violence and to share prayers for peace.  At dusk, participants sent paper lanterns afloat in the lake.  It was a beautiful and festive celebration.

Three little girls hiding behind two fans

Waiting until dark to light lantern and set it afloat

Lanterns alight with hopes and wishes for peace

Launching a lantern in Green Lake

Floating lanterns