It’s that time of year, when I’m supposed to be writing about lazy days by the pool, blender drinks, memories of childhood vacations. But this summer — my favorite season! — is off to a bumpy start.
Two family members have been dealing with illness. I’m battling a miserable summer cold. And I’ve just been summoned for eight weeks of jury duty. A trifecta of distractions from what’s supposed to be the most carefree season.
Perhaps I’ve always loved summer because July is my birthday month! As a kid, it was rough because so many friends were away at summer camp or on vacation. My birthday parties were small and simple, but no less celebratory.
For many years, I had a neighbor who was close in age. Whenever anyone asked how she felt about being another year older, she’d laugh and quip, “Beats the alternative!”
I’d laugh along, but truthfully, I’ve never been able to fully embrace the positive aspects of getting older. Sure, I feel wiser, and more comfortable in my own skin. But I also can’t stand it when my body doesn’t look the same and won’t do all the things it used to do — or at least not at the same pace.
In early May, as soon as the long-awaited Leluia Hall opened, I tried to make a dinner reservation for my birthday. No dice — the popular new restaurant was already booked. So, this year, my birthday might look a little more like my childhood ones — backyard cookouts at home, a swim at the neighborhood pool, watching movies till midnight. I’m OK with that.
And no matter how much weight is bearing down on me, I’ll try to think of my always effervescent former neighbor (Hi Joy!) and her positive attitude toward another trip around the sun.
Oh, and I will eat cake! SP
CATHY MARTIN
Editor
editor@southparkmagazine.com
IN THIS ISSUE:
2 – Artist Tori Bilas
3 – Dessert at The Fig Tree
4 – Edenton, North Carolina
5 – A Lansdowne kitchen designed by Susan Hill
6 – The Pembroke at The Dupont Circle Hotel
Photographs by Dustin and Susie Peck, Justin Driscoll, Cathy Martin, Olly Yung
