According to The Farmers" Almanac, the "dog days" of Summer are typically from July 3rd to August 11th. They're usually the hottest and most unbearable days of the season. Though the myths around the expression are often confusing and colloquial, the meaning actually has to do with the star, Sirius (in the constellation Canis Major) rising and setting in conjunction with the sun during this time of year. These days, it usually just means sweltering.
Why is it then, that come the end of August, I am already beginning to pine for Autumn? I guess by the end of each season I'm truly ready for the next one, but for some reason, August means Hallowe'en is just around the corner. I want warm clothes, hot drinks, and long, crisp afternoons where the light is just perfect.
So, despite the heat, we are gearing up full swing for our favorite season at The Belrose; Hallowe'en! The shop undergoes "Fall Cleaning"- dusting, mopping and painting of the shop, as well as refreshing, mending, and remerchandising our collection of over 3,000 costumes in anticipation of October celebrations.
Yesterday, I gave one of our Elvises a spa day. Today, I'm mending the jeweled belt and steaming and rebeading one of the newest additions to our Regency collection. Then perhaps looking at creating a display that might convey what a Hallowe'en party from the 1910s might look like.
I've discovered that the days I come in with a list of 3 things to accomplish, 5 more pop up. For some, this can feel like a Sisyphean task. I see it as exciting and challenging, looking forward to what the days will bring.
So, while I tackle today's current list of projects, I'll be staying hydrated and sheltered from the punishing sunshine all while dreaming of crisp leaves, big sweaters, and all the PSLs I can conjure. The season will be here before we know it!
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