Although John Sebastian is known for his musical contributions to Strawberry Shortcake cartoons, there's one song that always comes into my head on hot, humid summer days like today, April 16, the Dog Day of Spring.

Hot town, summer in the city
Back of my neck getting burnt and gritty
Been down, isn't it a pity
Doesn't seem to be a shadow in the city

All around, people looking half dead

Walking on the sidewalk, hotter than a match head

It's a weird April day. We're at 90 degrees across most of the northern half of New Jersey and New York City. There's the conflict of wanting to spend the day outside in such nice weather and the desire to lay low and keep cool in these conditions. With the first warm days of spring, there's always the feeling of cabin fever, of wanting to get out and breathe the fresh air, the warmth of the sun, the cool breezes. But when Mother Nature comes along and just drops 90 on you, you know there's no rush; there will be plenty of 90-degree days. Actually, I'd prefer some rain today, this week, this month, considering the drought conditions we're in and how it's only going to get worse. Save such nice weather for late May and beyond. Last year's dry summer leading into the dry winter is taking its toll.