Those summer memories of childhood! I remember running barefoot through tickly grass, walking through dusty places and feeling warm dust puff up between my toes, dancing quickly over rocks that were too hot for lingering. Summer was hot, but I didn’t mind. It was the way summer was supposed to be. Of course, if we had a drought, we were concerned about that. The water in the pond would get low for the cows and horse, but our well furnished a good supply of cold, fresh water straight from deep beneath the ground.
I remember hollyhocks by the well curb and morning glories by the window. Spreading an old quilt on the ground and looking up at the sky was a favorite way to spend a hot summer afternoon, after morning chores were finished. Green tree leaves made lacy patterns against a blue, blue sky. Lazy white clouds wandered across the heavens, long-necked giraffes, puffy, white elephants, in no hurry to go anywhere, traveling with the breeze. It was a time for dreaming.
This all seems so long ago, yet, if I close my eyes, I am there. I taste that drink of cold well water, feel the rocks under my feet, and smell the warm, green scent of summer. I hear Chappo the horse snort as he trots out to pasture, and the cows plod up from the barn. I hear Mom whistling as she works in the kitchen. These are all just wispy fragments of the past, but to me, they are as real as today.
Sweet!
Thank you, Carol.
So beautifully described, I was there too! Have you considered writing down your memories (you can select which) so future generations of your family can know how it was? A personal memoir would connect them with you and your time, as your mother’s writings have for you. It would be a loss for them if they never knew of your thoughts and experiences. You have had a very interesting life, and seen so many changes. Plus, you have a great sense of humor to give it your own spice! I hope you will.
Thanks, Kimberly. That’s an idea. My childhood was so different than my son’s or grandchildren’s childhood. That way of life will never be experienced by a later generation, yet, it was something I just took for granted..
Capture those memories! Share! We love them, and they will mean even more to your descendants.
Thank you for the encouragement, Kim.
Great memories to cherish!
Yes, they are, Morgan. I’m grateful for them.