The Slice: Sing along with the season

Here’s a simple format for rating your summer, conveniently presented ahead of the season as a public service.

We take as our text lyrics from the Beach Boys bouncy “All Summer Long.”

How many of these song references will you be able to check off your list this summer?

Sittin’ in my car outside your house

That’s entirely achievable. And while you’re there maybe you can talk over a few things that need discussing.

’Member when you spilled Coke all over your blouse

Those things happen.

T-shirts, cut-offs and a pair of thongs

OK, you might have your own ideas about what to wear. But you get the idea. No ties.

We’ve been having fun all summer long

That, in a nutshell, is the whole idea.

All summer long you’ve been with me

I can’t see enough of you

Wouldn’t it be sweet if life were that simple?

All summer long we’ve both been free

Won’t be long til summer time is through

That, of course, is the existential quandary of the season. No sooner does it begin than the countdown clock commences ticking, louder and louder.

Miniature golf and Hondas in the hills

When we rode that horse we got some thrills

Yes, it’s all fun and games until we realize youth is fleeting.

Every now and then we hear our song

And each time, it feels like a gift. That’s not too much to ask.

But on the chance you can’t really relate to that old song, here’s another Slice seasonal staple to consider. It’s Spirit’s “I Got a Line on You.”

Let me take you baby, down to the river bed

Quite doable in Spokane.

Got to tell you somethin’, go right to your head

The essence of communication.

Cause I got a line on you, babe

It’s about making connections.

Gotta put your arms around me

With every bit of your love

Like I said, connections.

If you know what to do, I’ll make love to you

I suppose this can be taken metaphorically.

You know my winter’s almost over

My summer, she’s comin’ on strong

And it’s not just his summer, my friends. It’s yours and mine.

I can love you, love you, love you

Love you all year long

So what are you waiting for?

Today’s Slice question: Are you capable of dressing a hot dog without loading on such a groaning volume of toppings that structural integrity is imperiled?

Write The Slice at P. O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210; call (509) 459-5470; email pault@spokesman.com. Memorial Day has been observed on a Monday since 1971.