raccoon eyes

The most distinct sign of summer, since I can remember, was the arrival of the raccoon eyes. If you do not understand, let me explain further. I have been a competitive swimmer since I was 3 and on top of that every summer since I was 15 I have life guarded. Exposure to so much sun and wearing goggles and/or sunglasses results in raccoon eyes (some call them reverse raccoon eyes..but that is far too technical). Where you face is all tan (or for some red) and the areas around the eyes, the bridge of the nose, and a stripe over each temple is white or much less tan- thus raccoon eyes. 

This summer, I naively thought that since I was taking on a "grown up" job where I would be spending many hours inside, I would for the first time not see the arrival of the raccoon eyes. A bittersweet milestone in my life. 

But, I was asked to lifeguard today at the camp I worked at 2 summers ago, because they were hosting a company party. Of course I accepted (money!...and I honestly can't see myself growing up from the pool and life guarding...we'll see how that goes later in life). And so after 8 hours in the sun...lo and behold...the raccoon eyes are here with a vengeance. "Grown up" job and all...I'm not yet a grown up, I'll take my raccoon eyes for what may be the last summer. Maybe I will hit this milestone next summer.