Father's Day, First Day of Spring, and the Season of Cancer All In One

 

"Father's Day, Summer, and the Stars" by Christine Graves via NightCafe Studio

Happy Father's Day, First Day of Summer, and Season of Cancer. I think it's kind of cool that all three of these events are happening on the same day. 

First of all, Happy Father's Day to all the dads, stepdads, granddads, moms who had to play dads, uncles, and brothers who stepped up and did all the "dad" things. I miss my daddy every day. He was a huge force in my life and allowed me to be the person I wanted to be. He wasn't afraid to show some tough love, but he was never afraid to show us girls (there were three of us) just how much he loved us.

The man I referred to as my daddy wasn't even biologically mine. He was my stepdad, but he never treated me like a stepkid. I was his daughter, plain and simple. If I screwed up, he'd chew my ass and dish out the punishment. But for the most part, he was my biggest fan. He would boast about my accomplishments, taught me how to fish, and always supported my creative endeavors. He was my hero and I'll always miss him.

Today, we also usher in the season of Cancer, the crab. (June 21-July 22). Those born under the sign of Cancer are thought to be highly protective and fiercely loyal to those they love. They are the ones who hold families together and work to keep the peace. However, Cancers tend to get their feelings hurt rather quickly and will "hide inside their shell" and withdraw from the rest of the world. 

Cancer is a water sign and ruled by the Moon. In Greek mythology, the zodiac of Cancer came about because the 12 Labors of Heracles. It is said that while Heracles was fighting the Hydra, the goddess Hera sent a crab to attack the hero. Instead, Heracles stepped on the crab, killing it instantly. However, Hera took the crab and set him the night sky as the constellation Cancer.

Though we usually think of Cancer as a crab, it can also be depicted as a lobster. The ancient Egyptians believed the constellation was a scarab beetle, while the Mesopotamians believed it to be a turtle. 

Famous Cancers include:

Sylvester Stallone (July 6)
Pamela Anderson (July 1)

Meryl Streep (June22)
Princess Diana (July 1)

And finally, happy first day of summer. I don't know what that means where you're from, but in my neck of the woods, that means it's gonna be bloody-well hot for the next few months. When I say hot, I'm mean anywhere from 85* to 110*F. Every single day. And, unfortunately, we're in the middle of a nasty drought, so it will feel even hotter. 

I have to admit, I like summer way more than I like winter. I'd rather be overly hot than cold. I hate the cold. I'm old and the cold hurts all the way to my bones. Don't get me wrong, I'm going to complain no matter what the weather is, but I prefer summer. 

I love that all three of these events land on the same day. A day to honor the father figures in our lives, a day to rejoice in the changing of the seasons, and a day to celebrate those born under the sign of Cancer. What better way to spend the day than to go fishing, enjoy time with loved ones, and throw an epic celebration. Sounds like a party to  me. 

Until next time,
Mom Graves!!!