I woke up this morning with that last-day-at-the-beach feeling. Anyone who makes an annual beach trip knows what I'm talking about. It's that desperate feeling of needing to squeeze every favorite beach thing into your last few hours there before returning to the real world and your day-to-day life.
Tomorrow I begin a new school year. My days and time will become structured again. I will be surrounded by students and colleagues for most of each day. Since River Cottage has been my "beach trip" this summer, this is my day to do all my favorite cottage things. I was up bright and early to water flower beds, something I've enjoyed every morning this summer. Then I curled up in my favorite chair with a cup coffee and a new Potterybarn catalog for a few quiet minutes. I spent some time emptying one more closet, trying on forgotten clothes, reconnecting with much-loved purses and shoes. It was such fun. Late this afternoon I went from room to room lighting the best-smelling candles, trying out each bed, straightening pictures, rearranging pillows, feeling so amazed that this perfect little house is mine.
I made the most of my "last day at the beach" and feel ready and excited to start another year doing something I still love after all this time. And best of all, I don't have to leave my "beach" behind. River Cottage will be here waiting for me at the end of each day.
