A Perfect Summer Evening

Some days, for whatever reason, seem more perfect than others.

Today was one of those days.  It was a perfect summer day

followed by a perfect summer evening.

As I headed out the door for my evening stroll it was still, so still.

And quiet.

Except for the laughter from the neighbour's children

dancing across the corn tassels in the field that separates us.

Barn swallows gather on the lines above

as they take a break from

darting and diving.

I am grateful for

every mosquito and fly they eat.

Our neighbourhood is full of fields

which are in turn are full of corn and hazelnuts.

Blackberries grow wild along the road and local 

fruit trees are dropping their loads to the ground below.

We are in bear country and it is the time of night

we often see them out and about.

All of my senses are alive.

The bear scat outside of our driveway

reminds me to stay alert.

The transparents I can hear thumping down from

this loaded tree are one more reminder.

I make my way down the long and winding road.

There are a half a dozen homes spread out

with room for children to run

and crops to grow.

Enough space for a person (and Mother Nature)

to just breathe.

As I round this corner I come

to the only hill in town

It beckons me, but my body is not ready.

Maybe next week, my friend.

As I turn around and head home

my heart is full.

I have stopped counting telephone poles

and have taken my camera off the shelf.

The sun is still warm on my back

 I am emotional, and grateful for the gift

of this perfect summer day.