Summer Reading

It's summer, which is to say it's hot, here in Sun Burn-adino country. Time to find our favorite summer escape routes, like movies and reading. There's nothing like a story to carry you away... 

I love to read in the summer. Ever since I was a kid, reading and re-reading Alice's Adventures, and all of the old fairytale books - Red, Green, Blue (we didn't have the Yellow, I still want that one...) -- it's been one of my favorite ways to escape the heat. Your body may be sitting in hundred-plus degree weather. but if I'm reading about the Ice Queen's palace, or about a snowy winter's day in Vermont - then, the world around me could melt away, and I'd still be sitting there cool as a cucumber...at least in my imagination. Of course, a tall glass of iced tea helps the magic trick work even better.

So that's been a favorite activity around here, this past week. Delving into shelves of old favorites. Browsing around, down at the library. Adding books to our, already-mile-long, wishlists at the (blissfully air-conditioned)  bookstore (oh how I want those! And so many others -- so many books, so little time...).

Or even while staying at home - decorating and hanging out in the Secret Garden Girls' Club Outdoor Reading Room.

Recipe for a peaceful summer reading club experience: Throw some sheets and shade cloth over the clothesline, clothespin in place. Add chairs, a table to hold the books (start with a foundation of classics, old and new favorites, then season with a light sprinkling of 'zines and comic books, to taste). Leave a little corner on the table for snacks, if you can.  Let kids - er, guests, garnish with found objects...Voila! the low-tech, practically free, clubhouse for summer reading is born. 

Garnishing with windchimes, seashells and flowers in a glass-yogurt-jar-vase, etc,  is optional - but the presentation does add to the ambience ;). As does sprinkling the sheets with the garden hose, beforehand (for that swamp cooler effect - don't drench, that would drip too much - just sprinkle lightly - also, remember this step before adding the books!). Serve with cherries, grapes or other fruit to eat out of hand (remember napkins and a plate or other predetermined place for pits). Add the iced beverage of your choice. Don't stir. Let it all rest. Only rise when needed. Follow later with sandwiches. Et cetera, etc... Depending on the temperature, age and temperament of guests - serves one to two hours of peace and quiet - possibly longer, especially when lunch is offered with promises of dessert (suggestion:  shortbread -- melts in your mouth not in your hands - or on the pages).

Comments

[rochambeau]

Sounds like summer heaven to me Tink! You built a "fort" even!

xox
Constance

[pam aries]

It is so inviting! I want to come hang out. .. you are making me want to build a fort..perhaps tomorrow! the kids will love it. i have been watching them whilst their parents are away. They are awsome kids! THank you for the inspiration. i a m working on your magic wand...

[Janet]

Oh, this all sounds so inviting! I love the idea of making a shady place to read and relax....and to sprinkle it with water to keep cool. I want to come to your summer camp!

[Ninnie]

Sounds like a great summer afternoon hide away. Love Hugs and Blessings

[amber]

That sounds WONderful! My favorite kind of fun, lady.

:)

[Paris Parfait]

Seems like summer bliss to me! Enjoy every moment! xoxox

[gemma]

Sun burn-adino LOL
We are in the same club
I want that tshirt...so many books so little time.
Enjoy!!!

[Pacian]

Those cherries look truly delicious. O_O

Now I'm hungry...

[Stephanie]

You provided some summer memories that will last a life time!!

[miss*R]

I love summer reading too.. on those hot days, a glass of water with a slice of lemon.. swatting flies away..

but here in Woodford it is winter and I snuggle under a blanket in front of a fire, reading..
your post is magickal!! I might try this with my grandsons next summer!

[pam aries]

Hello1 just checking in with ya!