It happens every year, whether we like it or not, the sultry heat of the dog days of summer. Interesting phrase, but where did it come from? Believe it or not, it has to do with the stars, specifically the star Sirius [photo above] also known as the Dog Star. Makes sense. Fun fact it is also the brightest star in the night sky, hotter than the sun, and is part of the Alpha Centauri system.
[Sidetrack: Alpha Centauri. Hm. My first thought was, if you were a Lost In Space fan back in the 1960s or 2020s, you may have wondered why would the Robinsons want to travel there? The answer, in a nutshell, it’s a star system that may support life.]
'Keepin cool.
The Dog Star is said to bring heat, drought, sudden thunderstorms, lethargy, fever, and bad luck. No Bueno. And if you live along the 84,000 miles of coastline in the United States swimming may become a no-no, due to a rise of bacteria in the water. [Fun fact – Cape May, NJ is the oldest seaside resort. Personal experience tells me the Atlantic Ocean in Cape May will never get warm enough for bacteria buildup. Even in August it is freezing. Unfortunately, I now know that’s wrong and bacteria can grow in water temperatures as low as 40 degrees. Wow, that is a huge digression… moving on…]
From July 3 until August 11 the dog days of summer conjures up images of folks sitting on their front porches or in air conditioned homes, sipping or eating something cool and just trying to beat the heat.
To tantalize your taste palate with some wonderful refreshing recipes, check out Wish Farms Blueberry Mule, but beware it has a kick. Compliments of The North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission, give Pina Colada Sweetpotato Ice Pops a try (don’t let the name fool you – they are kid friendly). From our friends at Red Sun Farms Cucumber Lime Sorbet may be just what you are looking for after a long, hot, and salty day at the beach.
