Summer.

It is interesting these days when you hear ‘the last days of summer’. It is ending isn’t it? All those warm nights, the sounds of chirping crickets. It is all coming to an end. Especially the stars. Oh those summer nights.

Getting rid of a few more volumes the other day I happened to glance the last leaf in an Alighieri Inferno compilation. It read something like–

Come forth, to look once more upon the stars.

Beautiful stuff. And I would agree. Some early mornings when heading to the car for work I glance up. I see the stars.

In our part of town the sky really is dark at night. And on these summer nights whether late night or early morning you can really see a Celestial Highway. What a summer memory. What beauty in nature.

These last days of summer have afforded us a few local outings. One of these outings was to Nanaimo Bakery & Confectionary Ltd. This gem is like one of those spots that time forgets. Years pass by and the shop, inside, remains unchanged.

The pastry showcases are the real highlight. Opposite the goodies is the cafe seating. Old, simple, peopled. Many locals appear here. The vibes are not busy, but homely. No phones in hand, munching on tuna sandwiches, quiche or fruit flan. The crowd that gathers here comes to visit over tea and coffee. A quiet scene from a different time.

We enjoyed a large black coffee. Tuna on wheat and a cherry danish. Tomato basil soup and a toasted rueben sandwich on house rye fuelled us up. We also delighted in two pieces of homemade cheese cake.

Local outings abound. Summer has meant so much this year. Whether day tripping or island hopping we enjoyed every bit.

And isn’t it funny, you know that fall is around the corner. But somehow regardless of how much you enjoyed the present season you resist what is to come. Colours fade and fall makes her gradual appearance. She romances you. You soon forget what summer meant and are delighted by cooler airs.

Is it happening now? Not yet. The crickets still chirp. The slider door is open. Just warm enough. Yesterday we walked out to a beautiful peninsula and spied the shifting tides. Sunset. Summer yet remains.

I am sure, however, that fall is waiting gently, quietly behind the corner soon to make her appearance–one leaf at a time.

Delay, dear season, one more day. Let us breathe in one more summer night. Let us drink in once more summer’s stars.

Currently listening to Kolonie’s Celestial Highway.