Summertime Delights

I’d say we are well into Summer despite the fact that the solstice is still days away. For me, Summer is all about sensory bliss. Whether it’s connection to the world through open windows or light fare while packing for a day at the pool, this time is nothing short of delightful.

I know each season has it’s splendor. And, I realize my recall is next to nothing as I tend to write about the flavors of each season (no doubt in superlatives). I know I recently wrote that I love Spring the best, but honestly, I really think I think I love Summer best.

Summertime is about ice cream melting over a fresh waffle cone. The sticky challenge of making sure no drips escape an eager slurp is quintessential Summer. My grandson, Daniel and I have visited every local ice cream store so much these last few weeks. The warm and smiling ice cream scoopers greet us with such friendliness. “Are you having the usual?” They say, smiling at Daniel with recognition that makes my heart melt. (Such melting is acceptable.) Daniel’s goal is to collect every Major League Baseball “cap” that Graeters offers as an ice cream cup. His first selection was a Cincinnati Reds cup. Now, we are well on our way to achieving his goal. This would never happen (at least with me) in February.

American flags fly everywhere. Whether the stars and stripes are perched next to front doors, lining atop city center light posts, or leading the pageantry of community parades, summertime welcomes patriotism. June is home to Flag Day, and July will bring Independence Day. Ice cream socials, backyard barbeques, and family reunions will no doubt be flanked by an American Flag or two. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, we have many opportunities to celebrate our patriotism. That, no doubt, happens in November, too, but you’d have to wear a coat.

Summertime means finding your grand daughters’ shorts and sun dresses in your laundry after a week of sleepovers and fancy times. That would never happen in the renewed, regimented routines of September. Summertime means a month’s supply of popsicles are in my freezer at all times.

And can we talk about the foods of Summer? June strawberries make me happier knowing July peaches are on their way. And, my mouth waters thinking of August watermelons. Farmers’ markets with fresh picked lettuce, corn and vibrantly colored flowers make this time of year rich with colors and tastes that tickle our senses. We can only dream of such Summer fruits in the Winter. They are perfect to pack for a picnic lunch.

The glow of skin after being in the sun, the frolic of colorful birds in and out of trees, permission to indulge in summer reading, and the opportunities to be reunited with far away family, or travel or discover the world beyond our front lawn are all gifts offered over these next few months. And speaking of baseball, what about going to a Dayton Dragons game? Can you tell I am happy it’s June?

So, as we all settle beneath the canopy of trees thick with leaves, I hope you, too, can take stock of what you love most about this time of year. There is something for everyone. Even for those who aren’t a fan of heat and humidity, early morning strolls or back patio sunset viewing are most always good for the soul. And remember, ice cream makes everything better, especially in Summer.