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'Dog Days of Summer'

Posted by old_man_by_the_sea Z8/9 (My Page) on
Thu, Jul 31, 08 at 0:35

A period of summer, coined in ancient times, said to be the hottest period of the season in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Old Farmer's Almanac lists it as the 40 days, occurring between July 3 & August 11.
Once believed to be caused by the confluence of the sun and the "Dog Star", Sirius (in the constellation Canis), the brightest star in the night sky.
Popularly believed to be an evil time "when the seas boiled, wine turned sour, dogs grew mad, and all creatures became languid, causing to man burning fevers, hysterics, and phrensies" - Brady’s Clavis Calendarium, 1813

Don't know that any of that still occurs in modern times, but the heat does seem to limit some outdoor activities, especially in the garden. Mine is on auto-pilot, until I can work there, without having to retreat inside every couple of hours to rehydrate and shower! Even the weeds get a reprieve.

Dog Days, bright and clear,
indicate a happy year
But when accompanied by rain
for better times, our hopes are vain
/unknown/


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: 'Dog Days of Summer'

Brings back wonderful memories. My father was a farmer, and he always announced when dog days had arrived. He always said that during dog days, it rains more often. He also said the snakes are out looking for winter homes. Seems like there are other things that are supposed to happen during dog days, but I have now forgotten them. Thanks for bringing back the memory.


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RE: 'Dog Days of Summer'

I just wish it would rain.


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RE: 'Dog Days of Summer'

  • Posted by shot 8 - GA (My Page) on
    Wed, Aug 6, 08 at 7:06

GeorgiaGirl, nice to know your father was in such an honorable profession.
Sores won't heal and mockingbirds don't sing during dog days.

Shot


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RE: 'Dog Days of Summer'

  • Posted by shot 8 - GA (My Page) on
    Thu, Aug 7, 08 at 8:49

WOOT! We got a tenth of an inch of rain last night! It was enough to settle the dust so I took that opportunity to mow down the butterbeans this morning before the 100 degree later in the day.

Shot


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