No blog dedicated to the sun, the sand, the sea and all things summertime would be worth its salt if it didn't comment on a day that all sun worshipers, watermen, waterwomen, surfers, sailors, single women, kids, astronomers, playwrights, citizens of Santa Barbara and Reykjavik, mystics, senior citizen drivers, and just about anyone who loves these lazy, hazy days of summer (presumably everyone who reads this blog) does not appreciate.
The longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere is this Thursday. This is the day that summer officially begins (and winter officially begins in the Southern Hemisphere - so screw them). Why is it considered "official"? Good question. Because at 2:06 PM EST, the sun will reach its farthest point from north of the celestial equator. What does this mean for you? It means there is more sunlight on this day than any other. Seems like a good time to celebrate.
It's a common misconception - I think mostly by college students - that the sun is closest to the earth during summer. That's definately not the case. Actually, on July 6 the earch will be at its farthest point from the sun. It's all about tilt, baby.
There are parades, celebrations, and events around the world that mark this day each year. Here at Siasom we support these celebrations, and we're seriously considering petitioning Congress to make this day a national holiday. It's an ideal day to play hooky anyway (ed. note - does anyone still use the word "hooky" anymore? Is there a new word for skipping work/school?).
So happy solstice. Barbeque, eat, drink, play, dance around the maypole, and just have fun. Summer's officially here and the livin' is easy.
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