The summer is fast departing and little Roxy and I have still not reconciled with the fact our time in Spain has ended. The thought that it’ll be another year before we again see our beloved summer place is too painful to bear.
Back in June, Roxy and I were all too eager to board the plane that would take us to the magical place we visit every year. We were more than ready to join the throngs of sun worshipers who congregate at the beach located just across the street from my mother’s apartment.
Alas, that time is no more.
I inhale deeply as I wait for my coffee to brew. Within minutes, its enticing aroma fills the kitchen. I allow my little moka pot to rest on the burner and feel the bewitching scent swirling around me.
Closing my eyes, I recall the gastronomic paradise we’ve left behind. Plates full of steaming paella, colorful and aromatic, dance before my eyes. Baskets of golden churros, accompanied by steaming mugs of hot chocolate, beckon me from afar. Spanish vino and a multitude of tapas seem to whisper, “Where have you gone?”
I sigh deeply. We’ve only been back a few days and already I yearn to return.
I miss the ocean waves that lulled me to sleep every night. I miss the smell of the sea outside of my window. I miss the frothy waves that cradled me on my afternoon swim. I miss the warm sand between my toes.
Looking at my tanned skin, I realize it won’t be long before my skin turns sallow and this newly acquired golden hue is gone.
Summer.
That time of the year when I’m allowed to pause.
That time of the year when I hit the reset button.
That time of the year when I beckon the sun’s rays to charge my emotional batteries.
I sigh nostalgically as I remember the many “dolce far niente” moments Roxy and I experienced. Slowly sipping my coffee, I realize we should all be so lucky to experience these kind of moments. They’re good for the soul and prompt the body and mind to relax; to take a break from the daily conundrum.
Indeed, my Spanish summer is behind me but this doesn’t mean I will not hit the pause button as fall approaches. And that’s because the older I get, the more I realize the only way to move forward is to take breaks along the way.
I refuse to be a marathon runner. Instead, I scribble my name in the short distance category. Why? Because something tells me that whatever awaits at the finish line is going to be the same no matter what.
Taking in this new found notion, Roxy and I settle comfortably on the couch. We may not be in Spain but this doesn’t mean we can’t have a “siesta” (nap) and dream of “chorizo” and Manchego cheese.
How was your summer break?
XOXO,
gypsyroxylee.wordpress.com 
Bella, this post is so beautifully written! I can smell the coffee in your kitchen! We had a “staycation.” Nothing fancy but still relaxing!
Thank you for the uplifting comment, Mindy!
I want to visit your Spain! My moka pot is packed away – alas! We’re in the process of moving. You are so right about making sure to take breaks often along life’s highway. I love road trips mostly because of all the unique places we can stop at if we want to. We didn’t do much this summer except pack and prepare the house for the sale. This was SUCH a great post – evocative and poignant, but full of wisdom. Kiss Roxie for me!
Nan!!! How are you, sweetie? I’m delighted you liked the post! You’re right–road trips can be delightful! I still remember the last one I took. My children were so young compared to how old they are today! It’s all about the beautiful memories we make along the way, isn’t it? Roxy sends her love! :)
Bella, you’re sooooo lucky to have had such a restorative stay in Spain over the summer! I haven’t taken a real vacation this year. Oh, sure, a day off now and then, but that’s NOT the same thing as long, lazy days in the sun, doing nothing. What a life!
Debbie, nothing beats an extended vacation! That said, little breaks here and there provide one with respite. The Son actually prefers the little breaks. He says the allow him to charge his batteries! :)
I think I’m with the son. I like little breaks often, much better than one long break.
I visited the Mediterranean too! So i know what you mean. I can still smell the sea and taste the croissants i used to eat there. Although its nice to see new sites, can be great to visit places you already know. thats what i do too. a save haven to return to and kick back.. great post thanks for this trip back to the future! Cause i hope to visit next year again
Hello William and thank you for your comment! Returning to familiar places is a comfort in itself. I love going back to Spain in the summers. It’s almost turned into a calling! :)
I just got back from not-always-sunny Croatia (you’ve seen some of the photos on Instagram, and I’ll be posting more in the days to come!), and, while seeing my family and spending some time with them was great, and while I love the sea (hey, who doesn’t?), it feels great to be home, too.
Naps? The wisdom of cats (and dogs!) tells us to take them whenever we feel like it. We can do a short distance run after we get some much needed rest.
Lady, I love, love to take naps! They are a welcome rest from the hot, Spanish sun. I have seen your Croatia pics! What a beautiful place! It’s actually on my bucket list of places to visit! :)
Miss Bella, your writing transported me to Spain. Thanks for sharing your vacation. First post I read this morning and it made my day.
Eve, thank you for your lovely words! Something tells me you’d love Spain! The music, the food, and the ambience! Ah, to be there again! Happy and honored to have made your day! :)