It’s lipstick melting hot, and I’m lovin’ it.

I’m not one to complain about the hot weather – aside from it burning my face when I get into the car after a long day at the office. But, hey, that’s the reason why they made air conditioning, right?

My children, on the other hand, do not like hot weather. They like the thought of it. They love flip-flops, summer vacation and playing outside under the water hose. What they don’t like is ball games in 90-degree heat and me making them pick up their toys in the yard in the weekend noon sun.

For Mother’s Day, we spent the weekend at my aunt’s house in Orange Beach. With seven girls ranging in age from 7 to 14, it was a constant opening and closing of the backdoor. My uncle had finally had enough of it and yelled, “Either say in or go out. Make up your mind.”

When I was younger, the older folks made up our minds for us. It was always “go out.” And it didn’t matter if it was 110 outside. I guess they figured we were smart enough to know when we needed something to drink, and by goodness, the water hose worked.

I think kids nowadays would have a fit if we told them they had to spend the entire day outside. I know mine would. So would my nieces. They’d be OK for an hour, two, three tops. But all day? “Ain’t no way,” as they’d say.

Over the weekend, the family talked about growing up without air conditioning and going to sleep after a shower in front of box fan.

Today, I have the convenience of air conditioning – thank goodness – but nothing makes me happier than spending time outside. I love to curl up on the front porch with a glass of iced tea and book, and it doesn’t matter how hot it is.

My grandmother the nurse had an overabundance of those white cotton rags that some how found themselves liberated from the hospital laundry. During the summer, she’d wear them wet around her neck. I’ve taken to doing the same thing while enjoying my quiet time.

I’ve even been known to wrap up in a heavy quilt and trek outside with a hot cup of coffee to enjoy the peace.

In the summer, that peace is short-lived, but at least if they get to worrisome, I can turn the hose on them.