Sweating or “glistening”…

“It’s hot enough to fry eggs on the sidewalk.” “Don’t go outside unless necessary.” “Drink water, check on the elderly, check on your neighbors, take care of animals.”

These recent warnings are part of daily news reports here in coastal South Carolina. Last week, temperatures were close to 100 degrees with heat index of 117 and more. Air conditioners have been running non-stop. Neighborhoods have been quiet as more people are staying inside and not taking walks until early morning or late evening.

So, what do the Hendersons do? We decide to take a walk in the evening. Equipped with bottled water, sunscreen applied and wearing light colored clothing, we start walking through the neighborhood.

Our pace is slower than usual. A few shaded areas bring welcome relief. Conversation is mostly about the heat and the lack of people outside. One runner (must be a professional) does pass us and two ladies are walking slowly on the opposite side of the street. Small number of folks outside.

After a long walk, as we approach the street to our home, we look at each other with questioning thoughts. “Who had the bright idea of walking in this heat?” At least it wasn’t as hot as earlier in the day and at least we were prepared and followed healthy guidelines for being outside.

Just as I am thinking about how glad I am we are sticking to our walking plan, Alan looks at me and says, “Wow, honey, you are really sweating. It’s running all down your face and neck.” Way to make a girl feel good. No kidding I was sweating. He was sweating, too, but I didn’t mention how he looked.

My reply was “No, dear, I am not sweating. I am “glistening”. Southern ladies “glisten”. We don’t sweat.”

Laughter was with us all the way home. And, yes, I was truly sweating.

We couldn’t wait to get inside the house, cool down, drink more water and take cold showers.

Even in a hot, sweaty walk, laughter can be found.

Have you found an unusual circumstance to laugh? Share with us.

Blessings and giggles,
Mimi