Growing up, we didn’t have air-conditioning.

Air circulated throughout our house because of a box-fan propped in a window. And you had to make sure your bed was positioned just right for the maximum amount of breeze.

I think I was about 12 before I realized the key to keeping cool at night was to take a shower just before bed. You’d still have to take another shower when you woke, but at least you got some quality sleep. It was probably a good thing we had well water. One could only image what that water bill would have been like then.

We’d also make frequent visits to the river. There was nothing like a quick dip in the Drip Rock to cool the core body temperature or even the hot temperatures of children stuck playing together all summer long.

My grandmother had air-conditioning, but for the life of me, I can never remember a single instance when it was turned on.

In those days, windows were propped open, and screen doors kept the breeze blowing and the bugs out.

I know it’s August, and it’s supposed to be hot, but golly jeepers, I can’t walk from the front of the house to the car without sweating to death.

It is lipstick and face-melting hot, too.

You know what I’m talking about – forget that tube of Passion Pink in that spot in front of the gearshift, and it’s a goner. Hop out for a quick trip inside Walmart and come out to an ooey-gooey pile of pink that won’t come out of your cup holder for love nor money.

Not to mention the fact, that when you first open the car door, the blast of heat from inside is enough to knock you down. I know it’s a waste of gas, but I let my car run and crank the A/C on full blast before we go anywhere.

According to the forecast, the heat’s not going to get any better in the coming days, either.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for southwest Alabama through Thursday. With temperatures expected to climb upwards to 101, the heat indices are expected to range between 110 and 115.

Remember, it’s vitally important to protect yourself against heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion, which makes you really, really sick, or heat stroke, which can kill you.

Those working or playing outdoors for extended periods of time (and that means you people out at the Babe Ruth 12U Girls World Series, both players and volunteers) should remember to drink plenty of fluids, keep in the shade as much as possible and look for ways to keep cool.

Here’s an idea – you could do like my granny used to do – walk around with a wet rag around your neck. When someone makes fun of you for wearing it, take it off and pop ‘em with it.