Summer left us

Earlier on the radio this week, I heard the host state that fall arrived. Once Labor Day passes, at least in New Hampshire the shift away from summer is underway. Many of the tourists that blanketed our small coastline or went to their cabins in the Lakes Region, are back to school and the routines they left in June. While the weather is still warm and pleasant, the trees are telling a different story.

Some of the leaves are changing color, although they won't be glorious for several more weeks. There is a chill in the air one that we didn't notice a mere three weeks ago. Even last weekend, I was in the lake swimming. The water will remain pleasant enough until early October and then the downward spiral to winter will ensue.

Like many people I found myself busy the last month with a week vacation to Maine and then just getting ready for the pending school year. I have been with students now for three weeks and so in a way, my summer ended mid August. My summer goals of writing a new book had to be put aside for other things and so I look towards the months ahead and on when I can possibly return to those unfinished tales.

To that end, I'm grateful for the shift. While the winter is long in New Hampshire, as the seasons pass, I do look forward to the transition. I may still be out in shorts and a t-shirt, but others have already gathered up their hoodies and parkas. Whether out of habit or necessity, for them mid 60s means summer really has come to an end.

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