What can be said about a state of paradise 3 months of the year? Summer in Maine is an experience felt beyond words. The suns embrace, ahhhh. Let’s go to the Atlantic coast to a pristine beach, climb on rocks, eat ice cream at port harbors, walk a small town. When the ocean warms up just got to body surf. Anticipating each wave rising, rising to a BIG ONE, diving with it, timing everything, what a ride to the shore; then running for the next, the next and the next! There are islands to explore by ferry with bike in tow to ride, ride, ride easy with so few cars our senses sharpen. The ocean calls; it’s constant, repetitive churning lulling into a feel of joy. Wild roses grow like weeds on the perimeter of beaches; a sensual delight. “Smell this one, mom!” Seagulls call attention to nature; the wonder of it all, flocks of terns running in and out with tide. On the ferry to islands watching lone seals dive and resurface a surprising distance away. Walking trails around home of Portland are calling; Mackworth Island, Wolf Neck, Mast Landing, Pettingill Farm, east end trail at sunrise, to the west end for sunset. A Maine vista of trees, fields and marshes fill eyes with infinite shades of green. See the quaking aspen their leaves shimmering against the bluest sky. Looking forward to picking strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. These berries are energy booster delicacies on hikes. Always look forward to a trip to Baxter State Park (thank you governor Baxter!) where the deer are almost tame. Then it’s time to eat outdoors; steamed clams and lobsters, sooooo good. This is time to feel the joyful gift of life, summers in Maine rock.