Why I Love 7099 Dibrova Drive
Because in the sweet summertime all is green
and the reflection of the blue sky and soft clouds
can be seen on the serene surface of the sparkling lake.
Because the long branches of the Weeping Willow
dance along the shoreline where my 7 year old self once chased minnows for hours,
and built sandcastles and made mud pies in the warmth of the sand grains.
Because I watched my dad labor in the yard for hours,
popping a fresh, grape tomato from his garden into his mouth,
while tending to his juicy meat which simmered on the grill.
Because when my mother saw a ripple in the water
she jumped to her feet to grab a fishing pole,
and stood patiently on the dock as if she had 0 things to worry about.
Because at age 9 I spent hours in the grassy field picking wild flowers,
and chasing fireflies at dusk, smelling like bug spray and campfire.
Because when morning came again it meant another day on the lake,
navigating around the small body of water in the rowboat
that was built by my uncles when they were once young.
Because back then there were no laptops or cellphones,
and so much pleasure was found simply by being at the lake with family.
Because today Lake Dibrova is the place I go when I need a break,
Because I can still take walks to the mulberry tree down the street,
or splash in the water with my cousins as if we were still 9 years old.
Because now that I am grown I appreciate the fact
that my cottage on Lake Dibrova was built from the ground up
by the hands of my grandfather and great grandfather.
Because I never had the chance to meet either of them,
but they both look down on me from heaven
and remind me to never lose sight of my inner child,
who spent so many sunny days at 7099 Dibrova Drive.
-Christina Sauchak
