the tides of summer
come washing in
bathing innocence
with its light

beaches stretch on
for sandy miles
stained with waste
and footprints

grass gets dry
like cornhusks
like brittle hay
pokes bare feet

new freckles
uneven tans
showcasing white
where straps once laid

air conditioners
rotating fans
whirring through the night
with fevered blades

when hair is cut
above the ears
and socks are
seldom worn

the season of heat
of warmth and love
uncomfortable days
breezy nights

lemonade and fire works
babysitting jobs
sleeping in 'till noon
twilight marathons

light, comedic novels
sandwiches for lunch
half-melted popsicles
fingers cherry-red

evening walks with dogs
bonfires and laughter
a close sort of togetherness
summer, it is here