Summer Time

The air is filled with the pleasing scent of burning mesquite chips

Burning until the chips and coals begin to turn white

Hot dogs, hamburgers, and steaks

Chicken, fish, and a rabbit on the grill

Baked beans, potato and cole slaw salads

Fruit and ice cold drinks become within reach

Moms and neighbors stay inside to finish getting ready

Making sure there are enough paper plates and plastic utensils

Dads and others tend the grill taking turns cooking and having a brew or two

While they listen to a baseball game wishing their team would win

Occasionally talking among themselves of other sports

They take turns watching the children as they play so none would be hurt

“Food’s Ready!” comes the yell from one of the dads at the grill

The kids come running across the grass wanting to be first in line

Crowding around the grill pointing out what they want

Sitting at the outdoor table, after blessing the food, everyone starts to eat

Oh yes, summer has now arrived for it is June 22^nd

Merrill A. Vaughan

© June 22 2003