It was just a very soft, slightly cool summer evening. In fact, it was this very summer evening.
Taking my book and the first cup of coffee from a fresh pot, pillow under my other arm, I made my way to the padded swing on our back deck. As I lay down and got comfortable, coffee in easy reach, correct book spot found, I lay my head back against the pillow for a few minutes.
Somewhere far enough away to not be annoying, someone was mowing their grass. I imagined the family planning a get-together tomorrow and the Dad wanting to be sure his lawn was up to snuff for visiting in-laws.
Down the hill the new beagle gave off a plaintative yodel now and then, as only a beagle can seem to do at suppertime. I don't find him annoying, I'm always reminded of the lazy old beagle we had when I was a kid who didn't stir much except at mealtimes.
Some kids and young adults were playing in the pool behind the privacy fence at the side of our backyard. They were having fun. No one was crying, no one was whining. It sounded like a good time was being had by all. I could smell some sort of meat being charred on the grill by a weekend warrior chef. I hoped it was for the kids who were swimming. What makes you hungrier?
The first sip of that cup of coffee was heaven as I leaned up on an elbow to taste it when it had cooled. I always like to "snatch" that first cup; the one a spoon could easily dissolve in if left too long.
I settled back against my pillow with my book du jour in hand. This one is a fiction set in Elizabeth I's reign. The premise is that someone has found Anne Boleyn's secret diary and given to Anne's daughter, Queen Elizabeth I.
The book is good and I did stir enough to have another sip or two of that coffee, but the next thing I knew, I was facing the back of the swing, it was dark out, dew had fallen, and my husband who gets off work at 11 was quietly sitting in the chair beside me. All I could do was grin at him. I may never have had such a satisfying nap and felt so safe upon waking.


Comments: 21
That would be a little scary to wake up in the dark. I don't know about you, but when I nap I never know where I am or what day or time it is. What a good feeling of security to find your hubby there.
If I ever finish Mary Queen of Scots.
Those nineteen years when she's a captive and does nothing but sew and plot gets a bit bogged down, eh?
I think I need a padded swing on our back deck! They just added more length to our deck and I know it is what it needs now to make it perfect. Maybe I could drop enough hints to get one for my birthday? :-)
This swing also has a little roof thing over it. It doesn't stop one bit of rain, but in walnut season, it saves our lives daily.
The crazy lady next door has a walnut tree that's determined to kill Kevin.
Ah, the perfect, restful day!
It turned out to be just that, Magi!
A padded swing, a quiet neighborhood, a good book....my God, girl....you just experienced heaven.
Bob, it was like heaven. Later when I went to bed I couldn't get comfortable and contemplated going back out to the swing.
Nice way to relax.
It was loverly, Marianne!
Vicky, I know what you mean about that first cup of coffee. I have switched to a French Press to make it even stronger. And waking to see your husband sitting there beside you is one of the best parts of life. Wonderful.
That sounds perfect, although you really slept a long time! I wish we had a swing, or glider. I also love those Cracker Barrel rockers.
The picture of serenity...
You painted a lovely picture of peace there, lady. I could almost taste your coffee!
What a peaceful nap and rest .
You could take a good "FAIL" picture with that coffee mug and yourself sleeping. Well, your hubby could.
How wonderful Vicky...I love those kinds of naps..and to have your loving hubby sitting there by you when you awoke...now that's perfect ;-)
How lovely. I would quite like such a nap, methinks!
Summertime comfort. Very nice, mellow read.
It sounds like a little bit of heaven to me. Wonderful.