Summertime Nostalgia
As the summer months come to a close, nostalgic memories of summers past come to mind. If I had to pick a season, it’d be summertime. Born in mid May, I love the days filled with bright sunlight, sleepy afternoons, and warm evening walks. So indulge me as I recollect a few sweet memories of summer days spent in far away places.
Long before mask mandates, and restricted travel I think of my summer spent wandering the streets of Paris.
The romantic city swept me up and cradled me in.
Of course the luscious gardens, and extravagant sights left me in awe, but it was the normalcy of life in Paris that drew me in.
It was the quaint street eateries, the fresh blooms on the sidewalk, the old man selling vintage postcards
It was the couples enjoying a picnic on a Tuesday afternoon, people basking in the sun at the park without looking down at their phones
It was the shop windows, the fresh fruit stands, the glamour amongst the ordinary that drew me in.
So much has changed, yet so much remains the same.
For the spirit of Paris lies within the sensual way it welcomes you in and little by little, then all once makes you fall completely in love.
My most Parisian memory is crossing the Seine river near Notre Dame and right across the bridge a trio was playing “A girl from Ipanema” in the most beautiful accents I’d ever heard. I think its hard to remember Paris and not feel a bit melancholy .
They say that Rome comes alive in the summer- and its true. But Rome in the evening is its own festivale’.
I recall a summer weekend spent in Rome with friends. I visited the ancient city twice before, but there’s something magical about the way it lights up in the warm summer months. Locals wait until 10pm to head to restaurants. The streets are filled with energy, chatter and excitement of reunion.
As I close my eyes, these memories flutter in and out like butterflies migrating home for the season. Nostalgia is an interesting feeling as we can’t relive the past, but can cherish the stories and recollections they bring. What summertime memories come to mind for you? I’d love to hear your own shared below whether they are in the form of poem, short story, or just a few words.
To next summer my friends,
xoxo