This brings back bad memories of last July -- and August, and September. I recall some ugly-hot days even in October.

We'll all hope this summer is less disgusting, but we're off to a bad start.

This could end my back-yard tomato season before it starts -- and as any tomato lover can tell you, that ranks high on the tragedy scale.

So here we go into survival mode.

Please recall that at this point last year, we didn't know we were heading into a drought. We'll hope and pray for some decent rain over the next few months -- but let's also embrace good water-saving behavior now.

Stage III water restrictions are in effect. That means you can water the lawn and garden only on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. or 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. If you do it in the morning, you can't do it that evening.

Other restrictions apply to car-washing, the filling of swimming pools and other uses. The details are on the city Web site, http://www.ci.durham.nc.us/

But here's a Durham-specific heat-wave remedy.

At the north edge of town is the cleanest and prettiest river in the Piedmont, the Eno. Last summer, the drought reduced it to a sad trickle, but right now it's still flowing nicely -- cool and clear.

Access points abound, but I'm partial to the Eno River State Park section at the end of Cole Mill Road, just across the Orange County line. Park in the lot, take a short downhill stroll and cross the footbridge. Just upstream from the bridge is a gravelly spot good for wading.

Walk into the river and pull it up over your ears. Sweet relief!