Tuesday, August 26, 2008

making Maine memories

Summer in Maine has finally appeared, though a little too late for vacationers and kids going back to school. The sun has been shining for more than a few hours allowing hay to be cut and baled. Our little crew took advantage of the warm weather and headed out to our favorite quiet swimming spot. While it now takes about an hour’s drive, including a long slog through the woods to pull into sight of the water, we were rewarded with hours of fun.

Will and Mary blew up the inflatable dingy and proved their rowing prowess by taking the smaller children on rides.
After Mary took Maggie and Charlie on a hike out to a small rocky point, Will met them with the boat and took them across to a tiny island dotted with scrubby bushes.
While there weren’t any blueberries on the island, Mary and Timmy and I found bunches on the hike back and sampled a few of the dainty treats. I tried to take the boat out, but found out that rowing is a lot harder than it looks. All I managed to do was go in circles.

We spotted a bald eagle soaring overhead, but when 3 cars pulled up I decided that the beach got a little too crowded and packed everyone in the car for the trek home. These sorts of afternoons are what the children remember about their summers in Maine, as well as the days of exploring the woods and fields on our farm. While one day I might be able to push off the beach in a canoe for a peaceful paddle, I will treasure the memories of a noisy day at the pond in my mother’s heart.

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