There is no denying there is a powerful momentum aiming at propelling us all into a tremendous summer season on the east end. There is optimism even with the reality of high gasoline prices that are at the least very annoying. An extremely wealthy friend said about the gas prices, “You know I can afford it, but it’s upsetting to be at the pump and feel like you are being taken!” Lots of things are more expensive these days as inflation is now raising the prices of everything not just homes. Still, east enders are excited that they have the mental relief that we all can safely socialize smartly again. The idea of our regained freedom of movement has everyone upbeat.
With almost all of the pandemic safety precautions now being relaxed, folks are planning to enjoy their summer openly and socially live. The masks are down and smiling faces are once again seen in supermarkets, churches, sporting events and in all place’s public. Many feared this might never actually ever happen. Yet, it has and the psychic strain of fearing a premature sudden death is now in the rear mirror. Instead, everyone has at least one plan to make up for lost time.
Policies of reducing beach activities and regulating safe restaurant atmospheres have returned to pre-pandemic stature. Live music, plays, little league and children’s soccer are all happening like in years past. Once again birthdays are being celebrated. BBQ’s will be enjoyed with neighbors and friends. This summer will bring the return of going to the movie theaters on rainy days. I still remember my first movie date in 8th grade to see the black and white filmed movie, “Georgy Girl.” I was nervous, and walked across town to her home. No parents driving kids around in those days. I rang the doorbell and met her parents. Then we walked to the Pelham Picture House. Yes, there was a first kiss. I suppose we all have a similar story.
Just this last weekend I started the process of spring cleaning around the yard. While in the shed I saw the boxes with our new 2022 beach chairs. Also in the shed were our wetsuits for the frisky early summer swimming days. Years back the then owner of the Blue Parrot said, “I never go in water colder than my age.” Us sixty-something folks can relate to that!
When Shakespeare composed Sonnet 18 and wrote, “Shall I compare you to a summer’s day,” he was talking about love. He was stating even back then, a summer’s day was magic.
Hamptons people know of an even more special summer magic. One filled with pleasant Atlantic Ocean breezes, wonderful sunsets, and beautiful private moments. Who doesn’t find themselves walking a beach, a road, or even in a park on a summer’s day and saying almost out loud, “Wow, this is wonderful!”
Plans are being made for opening nights, special galas and events. Friends are picking dates on their calendars to meet up with us for a summer’s dinner or a beach trip or maybe to go boating or even fishing. Although certain events were held last summer, they were burdened rightfully so with the safety issues. Although safety is still important, most of our basic freedoms are back. Especially freedom of assembly. In our case it will be to assemble in good cheer on the east end.
As children we all ran out of school on that last day when the last bell rang. We felt the freedom of the school year ending. I am sure there are a few who were sad school was over for the summer. However, I was not one of those people. I looked forward to the adventures every summer potentially had.
The clock is always ticking, time is always moving forward. However now it is moving towards the summer season on 2022. Just knowing that has to make one feel good.
