In the steady stream of hot, humid days Pennsylvania summers bring us, my daughters and I have established a routine. We play in the shade until lunchtime, and eat something that requires no heat—cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, watermelon, carrots and hummus. We pack our stroller high with towels and sunscreen and head to our community pool the moment it opens. After we’ve returned, soaking wet, sun-kissed, and wrapped up in towels, comes the best part of the day: popsicles on the back porch.
Of all the moments of motherhood I want to remember, the image of my daughters enjoying popsicles outside has to be at the top. At one and three, they recline on the outdoor sofas, kicking their legs in excitement as juice runs down their chins and onto their swimsuits. Their only care in the world is to finish their popsicles before they melt. They look like the essence of childhood.
