By Deborah Taylor-French
Ancient Romans called the hot days of July to early September Caniculares, meaning “dogdays.” Many believe this tradition began because during this time of year Sirius, the so-called Dog Star rises and sets with the sun. Our dog days have shifted to milder weather, perfect for gardening. Dogs do love the shade of a garden, the spray of a sprinkler or licks from a cool fountain.
Most of my readers know I am an active member of Redwood Writers, a branch of the California Writers Club. So this post departs from being related to dogs or animal welfare.
Sher Garmard, Salon Coordinator planned this summer event six months in advance. I offered my garden. A group of twenty would have had to squish on floor pillows in the living room. I felt glad our backyard garden was ready to receive visitors after years of dreaming, planning and rebuilding.
Fortunately, a lazy ocean breeze softened the heat wave. We gathered under swaths of shade. After sharing wine, cooling sparkling waters, and a buffet lunch, we formed a circle in the shade of the gazebo.
Elaine Webster (our new RW President) and I had suggested we try featuring poetry. No surprise we drew well-written and thoughtful poetry, but the volume of wit and humor did make us giggle and, at times, roar with glee.
Funny poetry? Yes!
May you enjoy gentle weather, shade and wonderful friends.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecexfev6Q8o
Blake Webster capture moments and made this video.
Redwood Writers Salons
- Hey there, got a big bowl of water for me?
One of our members brought her constant companion, Ripley. As you can see, Ripley is a working dog. Canine Assistance is her job. She wears her blue vest everywhere. When you see a dog wearing a blue vest, be sure to ask before you interact or pet the dog.
Ripley is one rare and perfectly behaved dog. So well-mannered people might not have notice her as she mingled in our group. Not one bark or bother. I could imagine Ripley enjoyed herself due to the kind attentions of her loving person. Later, she napped while we read our poems.
Some dogs get the perfect family. Some writers are lucky like we are, forming a fun and supportive family like club.
I cannot resist adding one more photograph featuring our much-loved former RedwoodWriters President, Linda Loveland Reid. She is a fine art painter, play director, writer and art historian, plus a lovely hostess and fabulous gardener.
For fun, summer dog photos go to Dog Days of Summer
Talk about a good hostess! We had a lovely outdoor, garden filled with flowers (oh, that Sally Holmes rose!), food and friends. Thanks Deborah!
Thanks. I enjoyed hearing you read your garden dilemma poem, plus delighted with Harry’s surprise appearance.