Tennis Anyone?

My double's partner-DAD

When I was 8,
 I spent every weekend at the tennis courts. In those days the  tennis ball cans were opened by a key.

  The top of each can had a metal ribbon around the top.  One would hook the key to the metal and wind the metal strip around the base of the key. This would slowly release the pressure in the can.  The metal strips were either red, yellow or black depending on the type of can.

 While waiting for my turn on the court I would hunt along the fence for cast-off keys, and unwind them to create some sort of art piece.

Well I had to think of SOMETHING to entertain myself...either that or sit for an hour on a hard green bench with feet dangling.

And now, years later, we are still playing. Recently it was my younger son's birthday, and D and I headed down to Grandma's and Grandpa's for a day of tennis and biking. My father, 84, and I challenged Mother and D to a game of doubles.  It was wild, with balls flying every which way. Dad and I finally lost, due to too much goofing around.

I'm glad DP is showing an interest in the game.

                                               

Dad, Mom and DP

Where's Mozart?  At home composing. He plays tennis about once very 2 years, and you know what? He can actually hit the ball in the court a few times before it goes over the fence. He's a natural. But before you think we are all tennis misfits, I will tell you my mother has held a high ranking for many years, both in the U.S. and in the world, in senior women's tennis. My dad is good, but doesn't like tournaments. I just play for fun.  And DP is a beginner. 

After tennis, DP and I took a bike ride along the back bay.  (Photos by DP)

The back bay is also home to over 200 species of birds—many of them endangered.

It's a saltwater marsh. Many of the plants have adapted to grow in the sea water.

Coyotes, racoons, and bobcats are around...somewhere.

We had a great ride.

I'm thankful for such a beautiful place to enjoy, and a wonderful mom and dad.