the buzz log

After a relentless winter and unforgiving spring, the rush to summer is understandably a little more hurried than usual. Searches for "summer solstice" and "first day of summer" are nearly 60% higher than this time last year.

Not so delicious is the substantial drop in "summer vacation" queries, and the rise in summer jobs and activities. Who says slacking off is the best way to enjoy summer anyhow? Take in the buzz on the best ways to get busy.

The Longest Day
As the Earth leans yearningly towards the sun, solstice will begin at 7:59 EDT for the Northern Hemisphere. NPR and Fox News explain the science, while Current explores a bewitching cultural history.

Warm-Weather Toys
A satellite messenger, solar charging panels, and sunglasses you can tie in a knot. If those don't scream summer, then you need to read Forbes Traveler's Summer Gadget Guide for more leisure toys that'll help you get out there.

Get With the Program
People must've learned from last summer's quest for "kids summer activities." Lookups for "summer programs," "summer camp" and "ymca summer camp" are 20% higher this year. Also up: "summer school." We've heard that learning is best retained in warm weather. Yes, we're lying... but get those grey cells working anyway.

Youthful Employment
In state after state, the unemployment numbers have been bleak: Minnesota's rate at 5.4%, Florida 5.5%, and tiny Rhode Island 7.2%. That may have rippled among the annual seekers for "part time summer jobs for teenagers" and "summer jobs for kids," which are double over this same time last summer. Shine offers sound advice for the teen job-seeker.

Other Summer Trends
... Kid Rock's "All Summer Long" fares hot, but not as hot as Justin Timberlake did last year with "Summer Love."
... The mood for "summer pictures" has dropped 51%. Get inspired to make photographic memories with Wired magazine's summer photo picks by its readers and photo staff.
... In time for "summer 08 fashion" queries, Esquire lays down its "10 Commandments of Summer Style" for men. The Dallas Morning News teaches a "short course" on poolside beauty, including tanning lessons.