This Summer was exceptional. My parents descended on my life in the beginning of June and stayed till end July; for many this may seem a form of self-mutilation, but I actually like my parents. Here are 2 of the reasons why:

1. They actually love me. No really, they love me for who I am – they don’t try to change me but respect my words and actions and encourage the rebellion that is me. They listen to my words and see me – all of me they see. And they touch me, there are hugs and pats and kisses. When they are not with me my body physically aches for their arms around me – I know this to be true as I am going through withdrawal right now. I know….

2. They LOVE my sons – God knows if they love me then there is no word to describe the relationship of grandfather and grandmother to grandson. There is “Oupa se kind” and “Granny’s Boy” – one for each. I love to watch this relationship, cannot tear my gaze away from the symbiosis that is them. Their relationships are hypnotic and mesmerizing and draws you into a maze you cannot possibly wish to escape from because it nurtures and shelters and protects and grows wild like a weeping willow in the marshlands…majestic and glorious and deeply, deeply at peace with itself.

This summer was a time of peace, of close friends…of Fire on the Water, of Birthdays,  of Lakes, of the BEACH. Now, those who know me know that I am attracted to water and swimming and sun like nothing else on this earth, and this past summer I have had the chance to frolic in the ocean and lie on a floatable on a lake and breathe and reflect…

This year I have a couple of basic goals – gotta do some serious work on my research and get done with this ball and chain weighing me down…time to move on. I’ve been moving on…

Thank you Summer for rejuvenation time, for reflection time, for restful time, for family time, for solidifying friendships…Thank you Summer, you have been so good to me.