Summer afternoon - summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language. ~Henry James

Last Friday was the last day of school. What a happy madhouse it was! Most of the classes found excuses to be outside for most of the day. Mason's class had a party outside that went on for hours. Other classes had recesses that ignored the whistles and bells that would summon them inside. Teachers were at least as glad as students to escape the classroom. For once the weather cooperated and the sun shone, warm and bright. Parents hung around, socializing. Kids yelled and ran around with their friends. Never ending snacks were served. Shorts and sandals were worn by all. Vacation plans were discussed. Promises were made to keep in touch over the summer. And, as if this weren't enough on its own, the last day of school was made even sweeter by the knowledge that the public school kids have another three weeks of school.