Most everyone in Oklahoma would agree that this has been one of the mildest last week of June and first week of July for many years here in Green Country. The humidity has been low to tolerable, and one can even get relief from the hot sun in the shade. Most summers, including July 4, one can stand in the shade and be just as hot and uncomfortable as in the sun. Anyone who has experienced Oklahoma weather can confirm this.
On July 4, we got up early and went to a friend’s house in Wynona to help him mow his yard. At least, Joel and John went to mow and weedeat. I walked around the property (in grass short enough to spot a snake if one happened to decide to cross my path). He has quite a good sized piece of property and there was much to see.
Between the smell of the fresh cut grass and the Deet from the bug spray I used, I had quite a nice day taking photographs of the property, of Joel’s horses, of John and Joel, and jotting down a few words for this blog.
The time we spent on the property reminded me, in a small way, of the times Dad and Mom took us camping or fishing. Right now, writing this the next day, I think of the time my grandmother married a man who owned property near Jay Oklahoma, and I spent time walking around in his fields.
I didn’t have a camera then.
I had one yesterday, and caught plants and insects, sometimes not realizing I captured some photo-bomber insects in my shots. I was glad for the surprise when I saw them on my big monitor. I also took some shots of the horses clowning around. I find horses to be curious creatures that love to play; curiosity and play equals intelligence.
(pardon the advertisement)
We ended our time with Joel drinking cold water and sitting underneath his porch cooling off. We had great conversation and laughter between the times the guys weren’t working. I find that when people do things together it brings them together. We had a great time spending time with Joel and will always remain in my memory as one of the best times we had on the fourth.
The Summer Mimosa
Sitting beneath the umbrella leaves
Dusty pink plumes against a blue sky
The white cotton candy clouds
Like great ships, lazily float by
The old southern lady spreads her branches and leaves
And sings of summers gone by
It seems her memories
Bring through her branches a sigh
There was a time
Of simple joys that many had time to share
The birds’ song and the new mown grass
Sweet upon the air
But now it seems our lives are lived
At way too fast a pace
We don’t have time to breathe deep
And enjoy the simpler things.