The Dog Days of Summer

Today is Monday, July 18. Here are five things you need to know today. (A special dog days of summer edition.

1. First, the weather. There could be some serious thunderstorms today, but the fact is -- it's going to be hot and sunny again for most of this week, at least according to the current forecast. You need to stay cool. You need to take advantage of this weather. How can you do that?

2. There is, of course, the , which is your most convenient and cheapest (free!) option. Check out our events calendar for hours and read this lovely history on the pool from Helen O'Neil to get inspired.

3. But maybe you don't want to be around the kiddies? The rooftop pool at the Colonnade Hotel in Back Bay might be more your speed. Yes, it's open to the public. For a flat $40, you can spend the day lounging there. (There's also a $20 half-day rate.)

4. If you're really lucky, you're going on holiday soon to the cape. The beaches are obviously amazing. But the fresh water ponds are sort of where it's at for swimming. Boston.com's got its annual wrap-up of the best swimming holes on the Cape here.

5. Personally, I recommend going west. The traffic is virtually non-existent outside of morning and afternoon commutes. Walden Pond is a surprisingly quick trip from the city -- a straight shot on Route 2. At about 20 miles, it's highly bike-able too.

Before you think about complaining that it's too hot, take a look at .