Summer is upon us. Not officially, of course, since the first day of summer technically isn't until June 21. But it's certainly here in full force with the temperatures.

And that's OK. While we complain about how hot it is with the 90-plus degree days this early in June, there is an energy that is quintessentially summer.

Friends are smiling more, rejoicing that cute dresses and sandals can be worn without shoulders and toes getting cold. We're making plans to have backyard barbecues. We're talking about going to the pool and trips to beach, and enjoying the North Carolina waterfronts.

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