What is Summertime?

this is the time to celebrate the fullness of life . . each day springing forth with a freshness, a fullness of flavor, an overflowing of possibility. This is summertime, and with that happy seasonal fact comes the inevitable . . . the long days, the warm sunshine, the chance to refresh yourself in a sea of tranquility. It is the season most people find their "inner child", just waiting there to be released anew. Why? It's inherent in the season . . . how can you resist letting it all go when friends and family beckon, when the many hours of sunshine remind you of all the accomplishments one single day can hold?! It is a season of calm, being able to hear yourself think, in rhythm to the waves breaking upon the shore as you stroll upon sugary sand . . letting your feet savor each step. There are seagulls meandering upon that same beach, nothing seems too important in that moment to them . . . or to you. All of life is lingering in the surf, letting the water lap up upon their toes first, then letting the tepid water further engulf them, until they are one with the water. It's the ultimate season of release . . . summertime.

So this summer, what are your plans? Will you share every holiday with your family and friends, frolicking aimlessly amidst a field of contented wildflowers? Or will you romp and skitter upon an sandy beach just to feel the joy in those moments? Perhaps you will take a ride in your car to some new place, journeying further into a realm of exploration and adventure than ever before. Whatever you are planning or even not planning to do this summer, remember to enjoy yourself in the process . . . savor each new day and practice the subtle art of "nothingness". Afterall, God has given us an amazing and vast planet, full of variety and spice, go and find your "inner child" again!

I'm returning to my favorite places in Italy soon, and I will be releasing that young girl in me, the one who forgets the aches and pains of aging, the one who smiles for no reason, the one who laughs and plays naturally . . . I'll even share my adventures with you . . . come join me and Chemarci as we find the flavors of Italia.

Buon viaggio! Have a nice trip! Cheryl