Summer is consistent for me in as many ways as it is not, it turns out. Jobs, schedules and styles all change, but from year to year, I know a few things for sure. I'll complain about the D.C. humidity, but never as much as I complain about ice falling from the sky in the winter. I'll fall in love with fresh white corn and tomatoes all over again (go away, Salmonella, go away.) And every July, I'm likely to be in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for a weeklong family beach vacation that is much a ritual as a getaway.

I don't know where all of you guys live, but here in Washington DC it is hot. I'm not exaggerating either, I got in my car the other day and my thermometer said it was 99 degrees outside. Hopefully it isn't quite as warm where you are and you can get outside and enjoy your summer. If you live somewhere where it is nice outside this time of year I've got some great ideas for you.

It's summer, and that means it's time to stock up on sunscreen. What's important to you when it comes to sunscreen? Is it the SPF? Natural ingredients? Smell? Price? Are you hoping to prevent skin cancer or premature aging? Are you worried the chemicals in sunscreen could be just as bad for you as the sun? What sunscreen is your favorite? I'll tell you mine, if you tell me yours. Okay, me first. Here is the evolution of my use of sunscreen (formally known as suntan lotion)...