slip-sliding away…..

Nights crunched into hours so short,
as lazy days stretch out,
sun eventually retreating for rest
before another long shift stumbles into its path.

These are the times
for long walks and cool drinks,
sweltering heat and makeshift fans –
adept at both cooling
and swatting away
the buzz of unwelcome visitors
with no regard for personal space.

The mercy of a gentle breeze
kissing your face
as sweat trickles down,
the inevitable release
of a body struggling to operate
under temperatures so extreme.

Holiday vibes fill the air,
as the masses let go of the year’s stress,
a well-earned rest
from days (and nights)
of toil at both work and home.

Beaches are packed,
hiking trails well trodden,
revellers dot lakes and dams,
as malls and restaurants stay open late,
cashing in on the seasonal influx
that will sustain them for months to come.

Families and friends gather,
kids running amok
while adults turn a blind eye,
rules and expectations relaxed
as freedom reigns for all.

Special days
under golden rays,
as weeks crawl by,
eventually giving way
to the new school and work year –
a fresh start for all –
life swings back into seriousness,
and all that’s left are sweet memories,
of summer daze
that left too soon.

Image source: Lejla Sudic @ Flickr