"Environment Canada: Rain at times heavy. Amount 40 to 50 mm." There is simply no way to read those words on a late August weekend without at least part of you thinking that the end of summer is upon us. But if it's not the weather there's always that other sign that the sunny season is nearing its final stages. That sign is of course is "Back to School."So it is, back to the grind, rut, and that long list you were compiling of all the things you said you would do once the rain came. Hopefully we'll have a few dry weeks, but before the leaves turn we should reserve a moment to think about the classic "what we did on our summer break." It's with rose coloured glasses I remember those time-standing-still-summer-breaks. This year however I was on the other end of the institutional stick, and it wacked me straight across the face teaching me a lesson I will not soon forget. Summer breaks are crippling for parents.If your kids are in school, all of a sudden you have to find/pay for something for them to do for two months. Yes spending time with them is great, but only if you can get time off. Plus if you use any of the numerous toddler programs in the community, you're royally screwed because they almost all close down for the summer. On one hand, I understand having to make room for all the school-aged children. But that still didn't dampen the shock of realizing the District of Squamish literally kicks out pretty much all the regular toddler programs for the summer. Live and learn I suppose.This summer I also learned that while I'm young enough to remember summer break, I'm also old enough to remember drive-in theatres. It's with much fondness I remember getting in my PJs and going with the parents to watch Grease. Now, I'm a sucker for any reason to get down to our ridiculously breathtaking waterfront. But you add a drive in screen and I'm there with bells on. The Squamish Coast Guard Auxiliary and SEP presented Squamish's First Classic Drive-in last week, and we can only hope it's the first of many. While waiting for dusk to arrive, one could lose themselves in countless natural wonders in the backdrop. Yet when daydreaming on our waterfront, the biggest challenge is staying in the moment. It is far too easy when you're down there to think what might be. The lands all around are being developed and whatever happens you can bet the full 360 views will be but a memory for those old enough to remember. It's scary to think this town's potential to do good is equal to the potential for evil. Luckily our community's passion has not diminished with age and I'm still optimistic that in the end Squamish will get what it so rightly deserves. Full titillating archive at cynicalsunshine.com
