Dog Days

Well here we are again in the midst of my least favorite time of the year in Abu Dhabi, I am sure I am not alone. How I wish I could ignore Middle East summers from afar in more northern and temperate latitudes like so many are fortunate to do. I could live without the blazing heat and stifling humidity that force me to stay indoors and struggle with boredom and increased levels of adult beverage consumption.

Not only is physical activity curtailed during the summer, I am convinced the mind is adversely affected as Cabin Fever sets in. This syndrome is more commonly known in Arctic climes where folks are confined to their living spaces for long periods of time by the harsh weather outside. Bad things have been known to happen to the housemates of sufferers of this malady. I am sure the same thing happens here but on opposite ends of the calendar. Everyone I know is grumpy and itchy.

I don’t like keeping a pair of potholder mittens in my car so I can touch the steering wheel or how the back of my shirt is wet when I get out of the car. I don’t like the way my head swims when I walk for more than 100 meters in the intense heat and humidity. I don’t like the way the summer sky is the same color as the desert due to the frequent sandstorms. The sky should be blue.

I realize I can’t change the climate, but I try to endure the best I can. What redeems the summer weather in Abu Dhabi is autumn, winter and spring. During those seasons, it’s about as perfect as one can hope for. Cool nights and mild days predominate, just right for outdoor activities and the sky is blue too!