I’m not talking about the kind of shower you take in your bathroom, but, rather, a meteor shower.
The Perseids
The question of when was the last time you enjoyed a shower together came to me because earlier this morning was supposedly the peak time for best viewing of the Perseids meteor shower. However, the shower activity period spans from July 17 through August 24.
Depending on where you live, tonight might also be a prime viewing night, but even until August 24 there’s still a chance you can spot a “shooting star” or two. (In doing research for this article I learned that shooting stars aren’t really stars at all but meteors streaking through the sky.)
The Romance of a Meteor Shower Show
Lounging under the stars, gazing heavenward (when you’re not gazing into each other’s eyes), perhaps sipping wine (or a non-alcoholic beverage of your choice, such as hot cocoa, which would be my choice if it was a cool enough night out)…ah, what could be more romantic?
Plenty actually. The most awesome part of meteor showers is they give your romantic imagination a chance to run wild. Mine conjures up lounge chairs (situated side-by-side of course), a blanket built for two (for snuggling under together), and a late-night picnic feast. Oh, and candles. Not sure how I’d work it, but in my mind’s eye I see a row of tea lights lining the back of Wayne’s truck’s tailgate, and maybe a table of some sort (the portable TV tray variety or even the cooler serving table duty) on either side of our chairs.
How to Enjoy a Shower
If you live amidst the hustle and bustle (and bright lights) of the big city, you’ll need to drive somewhere where darkness abounds. Something comfortable to sit on and blankets or jackets in case you get cold will make viewing more pleasurable. Also, don’t forget the bug spray. (I’m told nothing ruins a meteor shower show faster than finding you’ve become a bug’s feast.)
The best time to catch a show is as late as possible. In some cases this means until almost dawn! (You might not want to stay up that late. However, for those of you who don’t mind being early birds, it might be fun to wake before the sun rises, try to spot the meteors, catch the sunrise and then get breakfast. Or perhaps pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy while viewing the sunset. See what I mean? Romantic possibilities abound and are only limited by your imagination.)
Remaining Showers for 2008
Can’t catch the Perseids? No worries. There are more chances for you to take a shower together coming up.
The next major meteor shower is the Orionids, starting October 2 and lasting until November 7, peaking on October 21.
Then in November comes the Leonids, November 10 through November 23, with the peak happening on November 17.
December brings the Geminids, spanning December 7 through December 17, the peak being December 13.
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