Memory Lane

We were a bunch of teenage girls living together

for the summer, working as chambermaids

at a resort called Baker Brook.

We lived in what had once been a restaurant

underneath the motel.

We had a bedroom with 3 bunk beds,

a huge living room, and a kitchen with commercial stove and fridge.

The ladies' room held our sink and toilet.

The mens' room had our shower.

I was responsible for five cottages.

They were cozy with fireplaces

and the same people came back year after year.

In the evenings I worked in the office giving the manager a break.

It was great being on our own.

I worked there for four summers and loved it.

The other night I drove by for old times sake

and things had changed.

First I saw one of my cottages called Maple.

Then I saw Elm and Oak cottages.

Then I saw the sign and office.

By this time I had a lump in my throat.

I glanced across the street at the motel.

I couldn't believe the mess.

The recreation room is on the right.  I remember showing movies in there at night and playing ping pong.  And it's where the owners would throw a lobster feed for us at the end of the season.

I parked here in front of this door which led down to our apartment.

I reminisced about the past and the good times

then drove away from the sad present.