As summer approaches, the anticipation of longer days is quickly replaced by the reality of their gradual shortening. Chris Hardie shares his reflections on embracing summer’s fleeting moments, featured in his book “Back Home: Country Tales Through the Seasons.”
Summer Solstice: A Turning Point
At precisely 3:24 a.m. on June 21, the summer solstice marks the official end of spring. Known in Latin as “sun stands still,” this moment sees the sun at its highest point over the Tropic of Cancer, heralding the year’s longest day for the Northern Hemisphere.
It’s a paradoxical time when summer’s arrival coincides with the gradual shortening of daylight hours, leaving some to feel a bit short-changed. The ancients, including Celts and Druids, embraced the solstice with exuberant celebrations, from bonfires to festivals, a reminder of the timeless joy found in summer’s embrace.
Nature’s Indifference and Summer’s Bounty
Despite the world’s troubles—from political discord to global unrest—nature continues its cycles with unwavering grace. Farmers join this dance, but even they must pause to savor the season’s bounty. Here are a few quintessential summer experiences to relish:
- Relishing the first ripe tomato, the reward for diligent gardening.
- Relaxing in the shade, accompanied by the scent of freshly cut grass.
- Anticipating a plunge into a cool, spring-fed swimming hole.
- Strolling with a loved one as the day gently transitions to dusk.
- Enjoying the natural spectacle of a thunderstorm’s approach.
- Gathering around a campfire toasting marshmallows.
- Gazing at a star-filled sky, counting celestial wonders.
- Chasing fireflies and capturing their glow in a jar.
- Sharing a juicy watermelon, complete with seed-spitting contests.
- Collecting blackberries, emerging scratched but triumphant.
- Devouring corn on the cob, dripping with butter.
- Connecting with family in the outdoors, sharing stories and laughter.
- Embarking on family vacations, the car packed with anticipation.
- Driving through the countryside, savoring the scent of mowed alfalfa.
An old family saying reminds us of summer’s brevity, urging us to complete our work and relish the season’s gifts before winter arrives. So, embrace summer now—while it lasts.
“Wisconsin Life” is a collaborative effort by Wisconsin Public Radio and PBS Wisconsin, celebrating the state’s unique qualities through diverse stories of its people, places, history, and culture.
