Testing the Depth
A REview of Swasey Parkway
By Rudy Oku
Along Swasey Parkway in New Hampshire, there runs the Exeter River that eventually makes its way to the Atlantic. I sit on the black metal bench facing the current and watch the gulls and sparrows flock in the east-coast autumn landscape. My right-hand cushions itself within my pocket while the other hand holds tightly onto the Cucumber Soda (surprisingly fantastic!) I bought at Cornucopia Wine & Cheese Market. I exhale white steam, looking out.
The amber and maroon leaves sway across my field of vision in the wind and make soft crunching sounds before dropping onto the going waters. I raise my head. Three-baby ducklings drift along cackling and dunking their heads into the water. A small smile forms at the corner of my mouth and I take a deep breath. The smell of pine, water, and grass fill me but I can't help but to ache over the change in scenery in a few moments or even months from now. Eyes close.
On a clear day, I could see where the end of river meets the sky from the wooden dock past that bench. It is nice to dangle your feet over the waters and sit on the dock itself. For those who may have their sunglasses, take a look at the water. It reflects dark blue and specks of white diamond. The sparkling image is a gem to keep.
A lady, around age-forty, passes along with her Dachshund puppy enthusiastically leading the way. Oh, Hello. Without losing control of her dog, she spares one arm for a gentle wave. I wave back.
All throughout the quaint town of Exeter, this kind of simple beauty can be found by sitting back on an open bench. The people here are friendly and it seems as though there are many stories to hear. There are places where only the people of the town would know like a natural water spring up past the left of the parkway. So don’t be afraid to ask around. You might find unexpected treasures.
For every newcomer to the town, a new personal experience will paint over my canvas with an ever more vibrant color palette. I am sure that Exeter will be a painting that you would want to take home.
The amber and maroon leaves sway across my field of vision in the wind and make soft crunching sounds before dropping onto the going waters. I raise my head. Three-baby ducklings drift along cackling and dunking their heads into the water. A small smile forms at the corner of my mouth and I take a deep breath. The smell of pine, water, and grass fill me but I can't help but to ache over the change in scenery in a few moments or even months from now. Eyes close.
On a clear day, I could see where the end of river meets the sky from the wooden dock past that bench. It is nice to dangle your feet over the waters and sit on the dock itself. For those who may have their sunglasses, take a look at the water. It reflects dark blue and specks of white diamond. The sparkling image is a gem to keep.
A lady, around age-forty, passes along with her Dachshund puppy enthusiastically leading the way. Oh, Hello. Without losing control of her dog, she spares one arm for a gentle wave. I wave back.
All throughout the quaint town of Exeter, this kind of simple beauty can be found by sitting back on an open bench. The people here are friendly and it seems as though there are many stories to hear. There are places where only the people of the town would know like a natural water spring up past the left of the parkway. So don’t be afraid to ask around. You might find unexpected treasures.
For every newcomer to the town, a new personal experience will paint over my canvas with an ever more vibrant color palette. I am sure that Exeter will be a painting that you would want to take home.