My Sundress Memories

My sundress hangs there limply, needing me to fill it out. The rains have been relentless putting all sunshine to rout. The ides of March have come and gone without a sign of spring. My raincoat and umbrella are each such a ragged thing. It’s now Easter vacation and I’m yearning for some fun. Today the rains have halted and we have a bit of sun. Excitedly I pull my sundress out and down over my head. “You must be careful you don’t burn, is all my mom has said. The other kids have come for me. We head out for the day. After downing the car's soft roof we’re on our merry way. Adventuring on the seaside, water is too cold to swim. The sandy beach is warming and we are all young and trim. In my canary yellow sundress, I’m feeling very pretty. To cover with unneeded wrap would truly be a pity. We romp and play like small children, the whole of the spring day. When evening breezes cool the air we can no longer stay. When Mother meets me at the door, look on her face is stern. “Why is it you won’t listen? I told you, you would burn.” My face and shoulders, arms and legs are just as red as fire. I meekly bare my shoulders for the lotions they require. I hope I’ve learned my lesson as the pain is quite severe, but my sundress will be calling on first spring day, come next year. By: Joyce Johnson For Constance LaFrance's contest "The Sundress" Won 4th place .