Warm weather brings bliss

Who knew a little warm weather could brighten everyone’s mood? Today western Washington is experiencing above average temperatures. The highs are predicted to reach into the 80’s today, the humidity is low and it’s got everyone in my office in a very cheerful mood. Actually cheerful doesn’t quite describe the vibe, it’s more like giddiness; a kid on Christmas morning opening presents type of joy. Everybody is talking about the weather and several people are wearing shorts today (the Pacific Northwest has a very casual attitude when it comes to clothing even in the workplace).

Here are some highlights of what I’ve heard people say today and yesterday:

“Have you been outside today? It’s sooooo nice. I’m going to eat my lunch outside.”
“It’s nice to have my legs out! I haven’t seen my toes in months.”
“I don’t want this weather to end.”
“I can’t wait to get off work so I can enjoy this beautiful weather!"
“It’s so pretty outside it’s hard to come back in.”

All of these statements were made with huge grins plastered across their faces; a look of pure elation. On the ride home from work yesterday I saw a lot of people out and about running, kayaking, and cycling. It’s like the whole city has woken up from hibernation which isn’t completely off base. According to local meteorologists the high today may break a record. Normally the mercury would only rise to the mid 60’s.

 

I must admit all the jovial attitudes have caught me a little off guard. That’s probably because until now I’ve spent all of my life living in South Carolina (and a few years in North Carolina). Warm sunny weather is commonplace. Rather than being excited about the temperatures heating up I always looked at it with a sense of dread because comfortable heat was just a preview to months of sweltering heat. I did not have the same appreciation as they do here. It’s understandable. Next year I may just join the “OMG the weather is so awesome!!!” crowd.

“The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world's joy.”
-Henry Ward Beecher