Summarizing summer

In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “In the Summertime.”

Summer only began on June 21, which was a week ago last Sunday.  I was shocked when I saw someone say something about it being the first day of summer, as I thought we were already deep in the midst of it judging by the temperatures and humidity.  But, I do live in South Florida, so it’s not like I am not fully aware of my lot every year after the winter-less winter and a day or two of Spring.  This year though, the heat is really bothering me. So much so, that if I had the money, I would have a house somewhere up north and retreat there until at least October.

I remember a time when I lived for summer; my favorite place was on the beach; multi colored towel spread in the sand, radio blasting.  Smelling like Hawaiian Tropic I baked in the sun damaging my young, tender, spot free, wrinkle free, skin.  Ah, didn’t I just write a post about unheeded advice?  These days, after several non-benign skin cancer removals, I’m not as likely to be found sunbathing.

When you are school age, summer is synonymous with “no-school” so of course it’s your favorite season.  There is staying up late followed by sleeping in, vacation, summer camp, and many adventures with friends.  Then you grow older and while your children are still in school, you have mixed emotions about summer.  At first, it’s great and you are excitedly planning trips and activities.  Your precious pumpkins will be home with you and you anticipate lots of quality time, family fun and long talks.    Near the end of July however, you are counting down the days until you don’t have to hear “I’m bored” anymore.  That lasts until they don their new school clothes and backpack and head up the walk the first day, and you turn into a puddle of tears because you know you will miss them.

At my age (we will call it the young grandmother age), with no one at home except myself and my love, I am free to pick a season as my favorite for other reasons. Mine, for as long as I can remember has been fall.  I love all seasons and they signify different seasons of life and I thank my Creator for each and every one of them. Most of the time, I am content and can put on my Pollyanna hat and find all the goodness about summer.  Today is not one of those days.

So, here I am, enjoying my beautiful, blossoming plants and green grass as I sit sweating in a lawn chair in the shade, swatting mosquitoes…..waiting for fall.