Sitting here, listening to the wonderful Isley Brothers singing ‘Summer Breeze’ brings a smile, no matter what the weather, and yes I agree that in summer flowers become vibrant, trees rise to the occasion and the countryside takes on its own special vista.

However I now realise that we have all been brainwashed into accepting that when the sun is out summer has arrived and we should all be outside soaking up the rays whilst searching the cupboards for the obligatory bat and ball or spending the day basking on the beach building sand castles. I am aware that we all need vitamin D but we seem to have romanticised the season, idealising that the time of year should be rich with outdoor activities, love and happiness.

But in reality, there are many of us who hate summer and have never found the courage to shout out loud. OK, so here goes, I’ve never been comfortable with the heat, coping with sweat, heat rash bumps, headaches and not to mention hay fever! When the temperature is oppressive and humid, it leaves me feeling lethargic, and don’t get me started on mood swings – think hubby will attest to this. Allergies drain any energy I may have, making me just want to lie down and sleep. Don’t get me wrong, I love seeing a clear blue sky, delight in hearing birds singing in the mornings (apart from at 4am – when I could shoot the little darlings). I relish the long days, and delight in seeing people’s moods lift, but for me the truth is the complete opposite.

When the general consensus of most people and hubby included, think it’s the best time of the year, I refuse to apologise, adding that I adore the spring and autumn and excite at seeing the snow. I enjoy being wrapped up in front of a roaring fire, curtains drawn, nice and cosy after a hot bath and a hot steaming mug of tea (or glass of wine) and can always add more comfy jumpers.

Truth is, I love being invited to parties, BBQ’s, beach get togethers, but just not in the melting heat. So don’t stop inviting me, be kind and bring me a plate of food and a drink every now and then from my hidey hole. I am now confident enough to admit that I have always hated summer, it doesn’t agree with me, I’m not just being a misery and I now know that I am not alone.

Enjoy whatever season you prefer; you don’t need to feel like a freak.