Stillmeadow Friends

Dear Susan...

One of the lovliest things about summer by far is the ability to kick my sandals off at any given moment and wriggle my toes in the cool green grass.  Looking back over the years (what a cozy phrase) this is one of the most fun summertime memories.  Of course there was the one time that I inadvertently stepped on a bumble bee (Thanks to Rebecca for the bee picture!!) while barefoot.  For the most part though, only happy barefoot memories!!  

I love to go out in the backyard in the cool of the evening and slip my sandals off and feel the cool dew beneath my feet.  It's like being six years old all over again and pretending that you're doing something you shouldn't.  Sometimes I can hear my Mom saying, "Shelley!! Where are your shoes missy??"  Mom would be certain that in mid-July I would catch my death of cold. 

Once in a while I catch myself telling the girls that they should wear a sweater.  They look at me with sweat on their brow and give me that same look that I used to give my Mom.  It's funny how that circle keeps coming round and sweet echos of the past mingle with the Sweet Potatoes of today.

Our summer has already been a busy one.  We had such a wonderful 4th of July with Erik's cousin Lara and her husband Ari.  Each year they hold a 4th of July BBQ for family and friends.  The day was perfect...not too hot and humid and no rain!!  Ari was the master chef and we were able to celebrate Cousin Linda's birthday as well as visit with family.  The girls tired themselves out playing with the frisbie.  The girls tired Daddy out in the process!!  This year we celebrated on the 2nd since it was the Saturday.

On the 4th itself we were able to go north to Carmel, NY to see the fireworks over the lake.  Booms and bangs and bright colors had us all oooohing and aaaaahing!!  The girls loved it when the fireworks would trickle down and touch the lake.  I have to admit that I liked that too!!  We were able to get photos of many of them and I'm trying to figure out the best way to put the photos in a memory book so that we'll be able to enjoy them for years to come. 

The house is quiet today though Susan and I find myself a little quiet too.  The girls left yesterday for a visit to France with their Mother.  They'll be gone for almost a month and I feel like the days will be long without the Sweet Potatoes around to set up a lemonade stand or wonder if Scooter the cat needs a haircut!!  They've promised to "write lots" to us so I know that in a few days I'll be watching the post box for bright postcards and familiar handwriting.

I've started a new book Susan.  I'm reading a mystery written from the perspective of a cat!!  It's a harmless little novel and it seemed appropriate for hot summer nights.  There is no curling up in a warm spot with a hot cup of tea these days.  I've been keeping water in the fridge and if I'm out and about I simply HAVE to stop by The Black Cow for iced coffee.  It's the best there is and I am of course, completely hooked. 

I've been waiting for news of you and your trip to the UK.  I hope that all is well and that you're enjoying your time with family and friends.  There is something wonderful about connecting with our past.  Sometimes you can go home again.  It's good to wash our spirits in memories and give them a fresh start once more.

I for one will be happy to hear that you've returned.  I miss you my friend.  It's a good and pleasant thing to be able to pick up that telephone and hear your voice on the other end.  I wonder how your Daniel is doing and if the robin is still making a nest where it has for so many years. 

Erik and I were in New Hampshire last week and I remember that you and I had talked about getting together for a visit when we came.  We then realized that it wasn't to be this time.  Ah well...such is life. 

When you come home, we must discuss you coming for a visit Susan.  You'll be able to meet Susan T. who is another Gladys person and perhaps we three could visit Stillmeadow together!!  Oh wouldn't that be fun??

I should close for now.  It's almost time to start thinking about dinner.  Erik mentioned going out for Mexican food tonight!!  I'll write later and let you know what I had!!

Lots of love...

Shelley in New York

ps...As luck would have it, when Erik called the Mexican restaurant for their hours, it seems they are now a Columbian restaurant where no one speaks english.  We decided to pass.