Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Signs of Summer

(besides the freaking heat and humidity that we've been hit with, holy hell. I want to die. Or move to Colorado. Something)

A few weeks ago, my Ella Mae was running around outside past her bedtime and because I am 500 years old and get up at 5AM on Saturday, that little beagle needed to get her booty in the house. Now. I go outside to see what's distracted her, and wouldn't you know it, like any sweet Southern gal, she's out there chasing fireflies! It was the cutest thing. I about died. I let her play for a few more minutes. Because I'm a good puppy mom like that.

And then, just like that, it's summer (I know it's "technically" not, but, I don't care, shut up).

It's summer when the music in my car has switched from my standard repeat of George, Pat and Dwight (judge away, I don't care) to George, Pat, Kenny, Jimmy, Bob and The Eagles (random, right?).

It's summer when I open the sunroof on the drive home.

When I buy a new perfume that reminds me of the islands (Escada Ocean Lounge in case you're wondering).

When my husband requests a coconut cake for his birthday (I knew I married this man for a reason).

When I pull out the old Sugar Mill cookbook and send Rum French Toast recipes to friends.

When I come home and Rach is pink from sitting in the sun all afternoon.

When thoughts of the islands fill my mind every waking second.

When the smell of Coppertone is heaven.

When I remember the days long ago of endless waves on silky white sand and laughing the day away with my mom. When I remember breakfast at Long Bay Beach Club and dinners at Pusser's. When melted ice cream (because the freezer never worked) and grilled pizza (because the power never stayed on) makes me laugh and cry at the same time.

When all I can think about is my mom. And the places we went.

And the places we wanted to go.

When my BFF just returned from another fabulous vacation and I stare at her all starry eyed, knowing 100% that she was put in my path for a reason--and that my mom had a role in it.

When things slow down, the temperature goes up and it's like I'm 17 again.

Like I was back in the Islands. Getting sunburned, heat rash, mosquito bites and all.

Someday. Someday I'll go back.

Until then, I'll rock out to Kenny, I'll make pina colada pancakes (they're better than they sound) and lay by the pool.

After all, isn't that what summer is all about?

9 comments:

THE Stephanie said...

I love summer. And I could really use one of those beach vacations too!!

Samma said...

I am a summer girl too- blame it on the August birthday. Love the post- so beautiful, girl!

TUWABVB said...

I love this post - and thank you again for the recipe. I read it to my husband last night and he suggested a "test" run before his parents arrive. In two days, yea - not going to happen.

Jack was out chasing fireflies the other night too and I just about melted. He cocked his head to the side when the light went out and he couldn't find them - it was the cutest thing!

I'm dreading summer right now - so hot last year, but at least I have a shaded yard to enjoy it this time around.

Sweet Simplicity said...

It has been so muggy here. Yuck. I want Spring back.

Dollface said...

p.s it was raining and freezing here yesterday in NY.. i will take your hot summer over my cold summer any day!! we must plan a trip to texas :) xxxooo

Anonymous said...

I love that your little pup was chasing and playing with the fireflies! SO CUTE. Also, um, YEAH you should move to Colorado. Duh :) It's pretty much the best up here. But ironically? My sister, brother in law, and brother are all moving to Texas in a few months. Perhaps one day I'll be following them down there...

Lindsey said...

Love summer! This post made me smile, love it!

Brittany Ann said...

Oooohhh! Coconut cake! I'm with the hubs! Nothing better, especially during the tropical months!

prashant said...

Love the post- so beautiful, girl!
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