Sunrise, Sunset... the furthest apart they ever were (From Bucks Free Press)

Sunrise, Sunset... the furthest apart they ever were

9:45pm Monday 21st June 2010

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It was the summer solstice today; the longest day of the year. That’s good in a way but in another of a more depressing nature- it now means the days is getting shorter, slowly but surely. The year has been building up to 21 June, Midsummer’s Day and now the cycle will continue for the next six months up to Midwinter; that cold time of year when it’s dark whilst you’re still at work.

On the plus side though it now means summer is here. More sunshine, higher temperatures, less rainfall... on average I may add. The British summer seems to be a big joke to some but it isn’t always like that!

I love summer. I like being able to walk around in only one layer and not feel cold. I like the village fêtes, the open air concerts and the lazy afternoons picnicking in the park with a football for entertainment. I like strolling along the Thames at Hambleden or Marlow, feeling the breeze from the water- and the ice cream that is so needed after miles and miles in the summer sun. I like being able to swim outdoors without freezing my nipples (or other body parts) off. The summer fairs with their cheap, tasteless burgers, the mowing of the lawn, and the walks through the woods... Did I mention that I love summer?

So yes, even though the day’s length is declining, make the most of this time of year. It roughly lasts until 21 September, for that is the autumnal equinox, when night becomes longer than day.

Look out for part two of the National Trust in Bucks; coming soon!