For a split second I wonder if my imagination is getting the best of me. Then the sound radiating in the distance begins to get louder. I think I recognize it. Yes, I do! “Summer, summer, summertime. Time to sit back and unwind. Summer, summer, summertime. Time to sit back and unwind” As the tune gets louder, I see the sight I’ve been longing for – for what seems like an eternity. It instantly brings a smile to my face and I start jumping up and down in excitement.
With top down (the only way she travels) and auburn hair flying, Summer’s convertible rolls down the gravel driveway. “I’m back!” she shouts as she jumps out.
I grab her and nearly knock her over. I give her the mightiest hug I can muster, and then we both break out in a dance, Will Smith’s voice blasting in the background.
“What took you so long?” I ask. “And was Sun on an extended vacation or something?”
Summer laughs, that contagious laugh of hers – a mixture of sexy goddess and child-like giggle. “Awww honey. I’m right on schedule,” she says. “I can only come when Mother Nature says it’s time.”
“I know,” I reply. “But still…it just feels like ages since you were here!”
She pulls me in for another one of her famous hugs, the warmth seeps right into my soul. It feels so glorious it brings a tear to my eye. “And as far as Sun’s whereabouts…he’s had a bit of a glitch recently,” she chuckles. “Either that or he just needed a little more downtime than usual. You gotta remember, sugar…. he works his butt off to keep things in working order around here!”
“Yes. I guess I forget that sometimes,” I say. “I just adore him so much and well…he makes me happy…as happy as you make me!”
“Well then, darlin’… how about fixing me a bit of that sweet tea while I catch my breath here?” she asks.
“I’m on it.” I reply
Moments later we are sitting side-by-side on the porch swing, sipping our tea and basking in the glory of it all. “How’ve you been, baby?” she asks, her eyes twinkling as she hopes for some clandestine details.
“Doing great overall,” I say. “And now that you’re here, even better!”
She clasps my hand in hers, the feeling of comfort fills me. “I’m glad to hear it, honey,” she smiles.
“I’ve been meaning to tell you that I have plenty of room here if you want to extend your stay this year,” I say. “The girls are off on new adventures you know.”
“I know, and that’s awfully sweet of you, love. But you know the rules.”
“Yes. I guess,” I sigh.
“None of that,” she scolds. “The season has barely begun and you’re already thinking of the end?”
“You’re right,” I shrug. “Sorry. I just want to enjoy it a bit longer, that’s all.”
“Enjoy it while you’re in it!” she advises.
“Trust me, I will,” I reply.
“Go grab us a notebook and a pen,” she instructs me.
“What for?” I ask.
“You’ll see,” she says. “And how about some snacks while you’re at it,” she chuckles.
I retrieve the shrimp cocktail and sangria from the fridge, pen and notebook tucked under my arm.
“Oh, how lovely, doll,” she squeals as I set down the feast.
“How about a toast?” I ask
“Yes, yes!” she replies. “Perfect idea. But first get that pen and paper ready.”
“What for?” I ask.
“Because you’re gonna record every precious word,” she giggles.
“I’m ready, queen,” I say.
She raises her glass and clears her throat: “A toast to summer. May you welcome the season with open arms and open heart. May you savor every morsel of it and drink in its divine expression. May you remember to relax and bask in its peacefulness. May you make memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime. May you have gratitude and joy as you experience every celebration, graduation and extended vacation. May you make the time to greet the rising sun, breathe in the fragrance of the flowers and marvel at the flight of a butterfly. May you sink toes in sand and dive in the salty-cool ocean, thanking Mother Earth and giving her your blessings. May you dance, may you play and give thanks at the end of each day. May you soak in every possible sunset – not with phone in hand – but with complete and total attention. May you delight in awe at the dance of fireflies at dusk. May you remember to raise your eyes to the sky at night, seeing the brilliance in a star-studded masterpiece. May your summer – this summer of 2019 – be your best, most joy-filled, fun-filled and love-filled summer yet.”
I feel a tear roll down my cheek and can barely get the words out. “That was so darn beautiful,” I say.
“Yes. It was pretty good wasn’t it?” she laughs and slaps my thigh. “Now raise that glass of yours, sugar plum.”
I raise my glass to meet hers. “To you, Summer,” I say as our glasses clink. “Thank you for being you.”
“Awww. You’re welcome, baby,” she replies. “And thank you for being you. Did you get every word down?” she asks.
“I hope so,” I reply.
“Good girl,” she smiles. The radiance of it envelops my whole being.
“And don’t forget the most important advice,” she says.
“What’s that?” I ask.
She begins tapping her toes and snapping her fingers as she sings: “Summer, summer, summertime. Time to sit back and unwind.” I join in the chorus and we break out laughing.
She grabs my hand and pulls me up. “Let’s get this party started!” she shouts. We run towards her car and jump in. The tunes begin to blast again as she starts the ignition and we peel down the driveway…
“Saturday, in the park, I think it was the Fourth of July. Saturday in the park, I think it was the Fourth of July. People dancing, people laughing, a man selling ice cream…”