Every summer my husband and I pack our suitcases, load our kids into the car, and drive from tense, crowded New York City to my family's cottage in Maine. It's on an island, with stretches of sea and sandy beaches, rocky coasts, and pine trees. We barbecue, swim, lie around, and try to do nothing.

Summary

This quote illuminates the annual summer ritual of the speaker and her husband, where they escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and retreat to their family's cottage in Maine. The cottage is located on an island, offering idyllic surroundings, including sea stretches, sandy beaches, rocky coasts, and pine trees. Their vacation routine involves leisurely activities like barbecuing, swimming, and simply relaxing, embracing a slower pace of life. This quote emphasizes the importance of taking a break, reconnecting with nature, and finding solace in simplicity.