Holding on to Summer

A bag of craft store shells

and a beautiful octagonal jar from an estate sale

take me to distant beaches of long ago times.

A Balancing Act

That's what this summer has been.

I'm grateful we have a pool. 

I love to go out late in the evening when the neighborhood has quieted down...

The air is hot and heavy and no breeze stirs the water.

I can't resist.

Perfectly still, perfectly quiet, until one foot breaks the glass-like surface.

The first ripple glides to the far side. 

The porch light now dancing on the water delights me.

I roll up my pants high above my knees and plop down on the hot cement.

I'm tempted to just dive in, clothes and all, but am too practical for that.

I settle for kicking both feet with abandon.

The waves are rocking, slapping against the sides and spilling water onto the sidewalk.

Pants soaked.

I stop and take a few deep breaths while the waves expend the last of their energy.

Quiet stillness again.

Then the screen door slams.

The dogs run out and nearly push me in.

Someone hollers, "mOm?"

They found me...

Rejuvenated.  

Happy 4th of July!

Have a Happy and Safe

4th of July!

What Would Childhood Be...

Without Memories of

Vacations at the Beach?

I'm linking up today with Leigh's impromptu post where we can share our love of the ocean. Please go by Tales from Bloggeritaville

to read Leigh's heart wrenching post of about the Gulf Coast oil spill.


These photos are from the early 70's when we often vacationed at Avila Beach, California. I never wanted to get out of the water...