memorializing

after i left work today and was crossing the street behind the hospital, i caught the familiar and welcome scent of a barbecue permeating the thick, but somewhat cool, evening air.  is there anything more synonymous with memorial day weekend (besides the actual meaning of the holiday) than a grill?  and barbecues and memorial day always feel like the "kick off" to summer for me, although technically the first day of summer is still a month away.

now that we've finally hit a couple 80-degree days and the threat of one last chill have quickly been forgotten (at least until next year), everyone seems to be in higher spirits (and in alot less clothing).  the transitions between seasons are interesting to witness, especially in a city like the one i work in where it is usually a bit cooler than where i live; on one side of the street are women still donning their leggings and boots while on the other there are some too eager to break out the tanks and flip flops.  i, on the other hand, often feel more comfortable easing from one season into the other, self-conscious about showing some skin (despite my aversion of heat and humidity), especially when that requires exposing my pale, been-hidden-all-winter-and-most-of-spring legs.  the first time is always alittle awkward (as most firsts are), but come memorial day i usually feel ready to let loose.

so here's to a weekend of uninterrupted sun, barbecues, and worst (ahem, most) of all, to pastey-white legs.