Beginning of Summer

The Contessa, Libby, Serena (of the park), and even the New Man have asked me if I've had the chance to see An Inconvenient Truth yet. Have not, and feel that it is rude to say that do not plan on doing so--do feel that ought to see movie--but also have rock solid conviction that would walk out of movie feeling that ought to throw self in front of subway. Feel especially that advent of extremely hot and humid weather would intensify feeling. Except that weather brings customary feeling of helplessness and lethargy--witnessed last night in own apartment. On friday, am told by Libby to expect a very hot weekend. On Saturday, set about hooking up air conditioner. Because of rearrangement of furniture , air conditioner cord does not reach outlet. Take trip to hardware store, which results in purchase of extension cord which--though a bit too long--better safe than sorry--should do the trick. At home, upon further examintation, see that extension cord of a never before seen variety in which the prongs go the wrong direction. Say very bad words and kick dresser which causes Jenny to scurry out of room. Dave says that I don't need to freak out--he will go back to the hardward store and exchange cord. He takes cord out of apartment as am gearing up to shriek I am Not Freaking Out. Several minutes later, he comes back with same defective cord. The Hardware Store is closed. The next day, it is discovered that all hardware stores in Brooklyn are closed on Sunday. Sunday spent at the New Man's apartment at world cup viewing--apartment delightfully air conditioned and snacks good (bagels and lox, chicken fingers, bowls of chips and m&ms) and drinks plentiful. Time spent talking to the Contessa and Dave and changing subject whenever topic of soccer is brought up by other guests. When get home, air conditioner still (naturally) unattached. Dave says hopefully that he feels a breeze coming in through the windows. At bedtime, we tell each other that we will take cold showers and turn the fan on high. It will be Fine. Showers and fan a success, but effects extremely short lasting. Try to focus mind on fact that air not warmer than internal body temperature and thus must be somewhat cooling. This works for several minutes until am furiously irritated at own hot hand resting on stomach. There is a sudden infestation of flying ants. Night continues on similar course until fall into restless sleep in which dream about terrifying albino half-cat half-monkey creature. This morning, Sigrid calls. She is brisk and conversational--Elizabeth happy and healthy, weather in San Francisco perfect, and she is coming for a visit next week with Elizabeth, is that OK? Tell her yes, of course.