I am usually hiding indoors and wimpering in defeat by the first week of August. Normal temperatures in the Valley this time of year hover around 40 degrees Celsius (which is just over 100 degrees F.) This year however, with it's lower than normal temperatures see us sitting at about 32 (89F) which is much more bearable and allows for more time outdoors in the garden. Which translates to much less time in front of a computer.
Although my blogging has taken a hit, my spirit has a glow on. Time in the garden, walking by the river, discovering local plants I hadn't noticed before and time under the stars have all proven to be very healing and have allowed me to keep up a fairly good attitude, even during the hottest part of the year when I'm normally wilting.
The part of August I always look forward to though (even during the super-hot years) are the Perseids. The yearly meteor shower that shows off from the beginning of August, peaking around the 13th, is always a high point of my Summer. Althoug the Geminids boast more metors, their December show is much more chilly! This time of year is more conducive to laying in the grass and staring at the sky, and at about 60 meteors an hour you are are almost sure to see one, even if you only step out for a few minutes.
This year, your best bet is to try to see the Perseids earlier in the month. By the time the shower peaks, the full moon will block out much of the show. See if you can spot some shooting stars while the moon is waxing and the sky is dark.
In honour of the Perseids, this month's giveaway is the Celestial Tarot. This deck "explores the mythological archetypes and astrological imagery that have inspired mankind since ancient times." Take a look at this lovely deck:
As always, all you have to do is be a stalker in some form or fashion - follow the blog, find me on Facebook, subscribe to the RSS feed, or track me down on Twitter (links for all in the sidebar.) Then, leave a comment (make sure I can track you down if you win) and that's it!
I will draw for this deck (with booklet & spreadsheet) at the peak of the Perseids show - August 13th! Good luck!
