About two years ago, I moved to Birmingham, Alabama, to accept a job promotion.
After living my entire life in the northeastern part of the country, I was excited to leave behind the cold weather. I was accustomed to running the furnace for approximately eight months of the year. Sub zero temperatures, dangerous wind chill and blizzard conditions were expected. My local area was often featured on the national news for record-setting snow accumulation. Relocating to Birmingham meant I no longer needed heavy snow boots, a wool coat, ice scraper or snow shovel. While I was aware that I was moving to a state with especially hot and humid summers, I failed to recognize how brutal the climate could be. I moved in the middle of July. As I drove south, the outdoor temperature climbed higher and higher. When I arrived at my new apartment, the thermostat read ninety-three degrees. The humidity was oppressive. Unloading my car and carrying my possessions up several flights of stairs was exhausting. By the time I finished, I was dripping sweat. I looked forward to blasting the air conditioner and a cool shower. I was frustrated to learn that the electricity had not been activated, leaving me without lights, water, refrigeration or air conditioning. I immediately called my landlord and was promised that the electric would be working just fine in the morning. I couldn’t tolerate the thought of the heat and humidity all night long. I found a hotel and really enjoyed a long shower, air conditioning and room service.