The One About Saying Goodbye To Icky August, Hello To Wonderful September

/ Ally Bean

Once upon a time we had a cat who was told to not get up on the kitchen table. He did not listen.

May I be honest here? I’m not meant to live in super hot temperatures and this past August we had some super hot days, like ones with a daytime high of 104ºF.

Not. A. Fan.

Despite being inside in air conditioning where you might think I’d ignore my aversion to high temperatures, I did not. I could look through a window and see how hot it was outside. This made me feel tired and irritable, bereft of my usual “alacrity of spirit” as Willy Shakes* would say.

Who can make plans, go on adventures, flourish, when walking to the mailbox zaps what little energy you have managed to gin up for the day?

However last week September arrived bringing with it daytime temps near 80ºF which I find enjoyable, invigorating even.

l feel alive again.

• • •

Of course this pleasant change in temperatures and the subsequent realization of my renewed spirit comes with its own subtext. In the dog days of summer it’s easy to put off making any decisions, too hot to think straight, right?

However with this cooler weather my excuse for not doing much of anything is over. As you can imagine I’m ready to do the things that will entertain and motivate me during my favorite season of the year.

Autumn.

Thus I ask you, my little caramel apples of inspiration, what are you thinking about doing this fall? Do you have specific plans or do you have general guidelines about autumnal activities or are you going to wing it?

I’d love to know what’s up with you regarding the next few [what I believe to be] glorious months. Will you be organized? Will you be boisterous? Will you be rebellious?

Tell all in the comments below.

And this cat whilst on the forbidden kitchen table made a point of deconstructing any bouquet of flowers he found there.

* The full quote is: “So, I am satisfied. Give me a bowl of wine. I have not that alacrity of spirit Nor cheer of mind that I was wont to have.” It is from Richard III – Act 5, scene 3 BUT I am sad to say that unlike Richard III no one brought me a bowl of wine. Good help is soooo difficult to find these days.

221 thoughts on “The One About Saying Goodbye To Icky August, Hello To Wonderful September”

  1. Ah, Richard III–that’s a good one. Takes me back to my college days.

    I’m looking forward to open windows and fresh air. Resuming my walks and having them feel like a Pleasure and not a Drudge. Beyond that, Autumn is wide open for whatever makes me happiest.

    Liked by 3 people

  2. I used to be able to handle high heat (I lived in Phoenix for a year) rather easily, but ageing has brought that to a screeching halt. My internal regulator has decided to also retire, so I have become very sensitive to any temperature requiring shorts. We are still experiencing summer here; no autumn in sight, so I’m still muttering incoherently about cool breezes and iced drinks.

    As to the upcoming months, I don’t have
    to be organised, boisterous or rebellious, although I have spent chunks of my life following those credos. But not anymore. Just a modicum when I feel like it! Great question. 😊

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  3. August in my state is icky with tons of humidity, but we don’t have temps over 100 degrees. September is worse because it rains every single day with high decibel (!) humidity. Mid-October looks more inviting with temps in the 70s hanging around until next May. Yay!

    Thanks for the nod to Richard III , Ally! 😀

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    • Marian, yes I’ve been to FL many times during August and the humidity is awful. I didn’t realize about September there though. Of course once you get to October you’ve got it made in the shade, as they say. No doubt your spirit will be filled with alacrity. 🤓

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  4. Wow you can handle 80 degrees. My optimum temperature is 70. I would absolutely melt and be very cranky in temperatures over 100 even with air conditioning. I would spend the entire time longingly staring out the windows wishing for it to cool down so I could go back outside.

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    • Jenn, if there’s low humidity then 80º is fine by me. But when it gets hotter than that regardless of the humidity I get irritable and lethargic. That’s why August around here does me in every year.

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  6. We have clouds and probable rain and I am happy that WA is normal again! The AC unit is packed away and I am ready for colors to change and leaves to fall so I can swoosh through them when I walk. Dog sitting with Lila this coming weekend, fall/birthday/annual medical checks coming and then early Oct a visit from younger daughter and SIL then flying back to Colorado with them to visit older daughter and family- maybe helping them settle in a new house but maybe not. That process is not moving along very quickly as selling here is not moving along very quickly.

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    • Deb, yes, yes, to changing leaves and swooshing through leaves when I walk. I’m with you on those points. Your October travel plans sound exciting as does the prospect of having a few family visitors. I’m sorry to read about the house not selling quickly, real estate deals can be the worst sometimes. Fingers crossed it all falls [no pun intended] into place.

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      • I LOVE leaf walking! It’s been really interesting to see how the housing market is anticipating an interest rate change over just the past month. Prices here and in CO (and probably everywhere) are doing all sorts of jumps and flip flops up and down. We speculate that folks are hoping for something BIG before committing. I’m not so sure that BIG is going to happen.

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        • I’ve been reading about how real estate agents are being paid differently now which means more negotiations within the offers. I can’t explain the deets but wonder if that might be impacting your kids’ housing situation.

          Also, I’ve no idea why your comments are going into moderation. Sorry about that. 🤷‍♀️

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  7. I feel your pain and lassitude regarding the heat and I am heading straight into it down under. This is exactly why I am drawn to colder climates. It is reasonably easy to warm up in the cold weather. If heating isnt enough, just jump around, exercise, move around or work. Cooling down the body is more difficult and nigh impossible even with aircon.
    The only time to loll about all day and read is when the mercury and humidity rise in summer. We have it for five months. It is intolerable.

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    • Amanda, lassitude is the perfect word for how I was feeling in August, well most of it. I’m with you about enjoying colder climates where I can bundle up as needed. I didn’t realize how long your high summer temps went on for as long as they do. Reading is a good way to pass the time.

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  8. September is my favorite month of the year. The flora and fauna here in Minnesconsin are still lush while we see leaves begin to change color. It’s a month that always feels ripe with opportunities to me. I’m mostly winging it, but am looking forward to a nearby small town’s annual fall festival next weekend 🙂

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    • Rhonda, what you describe for your September is how it is around here in October. I agree that this time of year “feels ripe with opportunities” as if many good things will happen. Thanks for reminding me to look for some small town fall festivals to attend. That can be great fun.

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  10. We’re actually having cooler temperatures here in the south, too. So refreshing! I don’t think anyone gets used to heat and humidity. This is hubby’s second day of retirement. He’s still sleeping (9:00). So I will be trying to get used to a new normal. And so will he! Should be fun😻

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    • Beth, you’re probably right that no one gets used to heat and humidity, it’s just something to endure. Your cooler temps sound great. I’m sure you’ll gradually find your new normal, once sleepyhead gets up. 😴

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  11. I love September and early October and I plan to enjoy walks in the crisp morning air and appreciate the lack of snow. The only fly in my ointment is I know my favourite two months of the year are followed by my least favourite six. Sigh. But it’s worth it to get the glory of fall!!!

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    • Elisabeth, I try not to think too far ahead when it comes to what happens after autumn. I get where you’re coming from with that idea. Going for walks is just the best in the fall.

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  12. We didn’t get quite as warm as you, but we were close to 100 some days. It was too hot to camp. Trust me I tried. It was too hot to walk the dog. She got more crazy than usual. So for September I have all the usual fall stuff, band started last week and since I’m librarian I’m busy, doggy school starts today…had to trim the fur on her feet, can’t show up looking like summer! I’m hoping for one more camping trip but have to go to DC for a few days right in the middle of the month so odds are against camping again this year. OH…and we have remodeler people coming to finish our basement…starting next week.

    On second thought maybe I want to skip right over September and hop over to October.

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    • Dawn, your September sounds like it’s a busy one. I hope that doggy school goes well and that your remodeling project goes off without a hitch. Sometimes it amazes me how everything happens all at once, which is how your September seems to be playing out. Hang in there, October is coming.

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  13. Love the quote and thanks for including the full version at the end.
    Boy oh boy did September come in with teeth bared for us! We dipped down to the forties! Da hell? I am all for the cooler temps because, like you, I loathe the heavy, humid, stinky heat. However, may we please ease in? I went for a run this morning – it was a cool 50 degrees F. (Yesterday, no run but it was even colder 44!)

    We have entered our absolutely INSANE period at work. We have a stupid number of cruise ships that come into Montreal and my job is to supply guides for the tours. It’s nuts. So, forget about me for September and October. I will have lots of desire to do nothing once I get home. No, strike that. I have LOTS I want to do but no time to do them.
    Somehow, I really, REALLY want to at the very least can some tomatoes. I think I have one last jar of tomato sauce from last year. Which is pretty friggen good, if you ask me. I won’t have to make any salsa (I think I’ll have enough – must check inventory). The rest? Next time!

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    • Dale, with those temperatures your weather has really gone all in for fall. I’m with you, a gradual drop would be preferable thereby allowing you to adapt.

      I didn’t know that about Montreal and the fall cruise ships. Makes sense that it’d be a lovely time of year to visit there. Good luck with your job, sounds crazy.

      I hope you get to can some of your tomatoes. They had the courtesy to grow for you so you should reward them by helping them stick around in your pantry for as long as possible. 😋

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      • A tad too drastic.

        Oh yes, they come from far and wide to see the colours on the trees. I never knew, till I started working here!

        I can promise you they won’t be MY tomatoes… 😉 But I will find the time.

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    • Laura, I got the YouTube link and it is here in the comments now that I released it from moderation limbo. Thanks so much for it. I’ve never, ever heard this song and it is perfect especially sung by Dean Martin. Of course now I have today’s ear worm so I’ll be humming this tune to distraction.

      I’m with you about enjoying fall, no matter where I am. It’s my favorite time of year so bring on the FUN!

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  17. Love the quote. If you want to stop by, I’ll gladly give you a bowl of wine, but probably by the time you get here it will be served in front of the fireplace!
    It’s in the 70s here, crisp air, no humidity finally at last, and I would be sitting outside enjoying it all if my patio wasn’t all ripped up and people filling the air with stone dust.
    I don’t have any specific plans for autumn beyond getting out my machete and chopping down the jungles that were my garden beds. If the stone masons ever leave, and they are taking their time, doing it right, I’ll enjoy eating outside again, but probably I’ll just grab a grandkid and go apple picking. Then, I’ll bake.

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    • Dorothy, don’t you love the idea of a bowl of wine rather than a stemmed glass of wine! Z-D has offered to serve me one tonight just to see me attempt to drink from a bowl.

      Stone dust is the worst. It gets everywhere on the house and windows outside as well as sneaking into the house. We had stone masons build a few retaining walls and what an unexpected dusty mess. I sympathize with your situation.

      Picking apples and baking sound like wonderful activities to me. Enjoy!

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  19. My glorious mountains and glorious trees were shields from an otherwise thick and humid August. This month I, too, organize. We might undertake a fall renovation project. My biggest priority is continuing my recovery and exercise regimen post knee replacement. Ahhhh, fall.

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    • Maggie, you live in a lovely part of the country, no doubt. Yes to organization here too. I wish you well on your renovation project if you undertake one and most definitely wish you well about your new knee. Recuperation and exercise are a big deal that I know you’ll do it the right way.

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  20. Fortunately in my part of CA we don’t get temps over 100 very often. We just cleared a portion of our backyard and made it suitable for a fire pit, which we have, so I’m looking forward to spending some of the upcoming evenings sipping a white claw and enjoying the fire. It’s been a long time coming! Happy Fall to you, Ally!

    Liked by 3 people

    • Janet, just in the last few years we’ve had these miserable over 100º temps, not for weeks, but for a few days. Growing up it was never over 100º around here.

      A fire pit! Oh that sounds lovely and inviting. I’m glad you finally got this set up in the way you want. Home improvement projects may take a while but are usually worth the wait.

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  21. I love the title of this blog post, Ally! It reflects my feelings exactly! I’m so happy for the cooler weather, although smoke from nearby forest fires has rolled in to cramp my style. We have an air quality alert, and it smells like an old cigar out there.
    However, it’s cooler, and it feels better despite the smoke!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Michelle G., I’m sorry to read about the smoke from forest fires, but know it happens. We sometimes get that here and you’re right all you can do is wait it out. At least it’s cooler now, which helps I do believe, too.

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  22. I long for hot days in March, so I try so hard not to complain about them. But I am super enjoying the crisper temperatures and having windows open at night. And I’m ready for the universe to give me a season without any sort of life crisis. A girl came dream, right?!

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    • NGS, I take your point about not complaining. In March I’m the same way as you, wanting warmth, BUT there is a point when it is too much warm. And I hit that point this last August. We have our windows open at night now and it is glorious. A season with no life crisis‽ Sure, keep dreaming.

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  24. I so look forward to turtleneck weather. The forecast here is for temps in the 60s all week, so it’s almost time to haul out the turtlenecks and wear them through next April. Mostly I am looking forward to burrowing into my recliner to read and write all fall and winter. For adventure, a friend and I are renting a cabin on an island in the San Juans, to spend 5 days hiking, possibly kayaking, and watching the sun set over the Salish Sea. Thank you for the Richard III quote—I need a bit more culture in my life. Happy end of summer heat and commencement of glorious autumn, Ally.

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    • Donna, I like turtleneck weather, too. I hadn’t thought about that feature of autumn so something for me to look forward to, also. Your cabin adventure sounds like fun, something to get your body moving and your creative juices flowing. I bet it’ll be filled with stories to tell. Glad you enjoyed my detour into Willy Shakes. Sometimes his words say it in such a wonderful way that I have to use them here.

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  25. I will miss laying by the pool, but our pool remains open for a month or more, allowing for adults to come and use the pool if so desired sans lifeguards. I think my weekends are too busy to continue to use the pool, but maybe I’ll squeeze in a visit at some point.

    We have tailgates and college parents’ weekends to look forward to. It’s busy and I love summer, but I love having the windows open. If I find the time, I’m ready to organize some closets/areas of the house.

    I’ve always loved the heat. Hot summer days are my favorite, but as I age, I feel like I can’t tolerate the oppressive heat.

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    • Ernie, our pool closed this past weekend, not that I use it but apparently the powers that be said pool time was over. Enjoy yours while you can.

      I forgot about football tailgating when I wrote this post. Not that we’ve done that in decades, but it is a fun vibe that I sometimes recreate for just Z-D and I at home. I can whip up the flavors if nothing else.

      Another commenter mentioned how as she aged she wasn’t dealing with the heat so well anymore. It makes sense I guess. Your word oppressive sums it up for me.

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  26. The humidity seems to track with the calendar here in South Carolina. On July 1 you wake up to fogged window panes. On September 1 they’re clear again. What is key to tolerance for me is not the temperatures but rather the humidity. As we learned in Colorado, 90 degrees really isn’t so bad when the humidity is down in the single digits. Our strategy for for coping with July and August humidity in South Carolina? Travel (which we managed to do for most of August). And I agree with your final point, Ally; more moderate temperatures inspire more productive days. I have a long list of pending to-do’s on my Task app and suddenly I’ve checked off several. [p.s. Despite the arrival of fall, I will not go anywhere near a “pumpkin spice” product until at least October 1.]

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    • Dave, I know that where you live is more humid than it is here, and I don’t like the humidity we have here so no way could I live in SC. Your example from CO is so true. I knew you’d been traveling these last few months, just not your ulterior motive for doing so.

      Yes about getting things done now that September is here. I feel infinitely more alert in cool weather. Laughing about your “pumpkin spice” rule. It’s a good one.

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  27. I love August but I also love September when the air is crisp and the temperatures are usually temperate. It helps that we had a summer that was mostly 70s and 80s with little wildfire smoke. Fall is also my favorite season though; I prefer sweatshirt and fireplace weather over using the heat pump cooling and sweating. Thankfully, I can almost always get outside and that does a lot for my mood!

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    • Margaret, we’ve finally gotten to the crisp air time of year when I come alive again. Your summer temps are perfect, unlike our odd extremes. I’m with you about sweatshirts, or as my mother called it, sweater weather. That’s what I like.

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    • Bijoux, your plans sound perfect but it does seem to me that if you drink enough wine in Ohio wine country you could get a little rebellious. Just saying, a thought to consider. 🍷

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  29. I’m smiling to myself picturing you lapping up wine from a bowl not unlike the cat on the table. My boisterous rebel days are behind me so I suppose I must be organized. Actually I’ll spend many days on the deck probably reading or perhaps just holding onto a book while I watch the leaves change. Happy autumn to you!

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  31. You can’t blame kitty for nibbling when you present such a pretty bouquet. 😉
    As for cooler temps, I’m with you. Though ours are 60/70 instead of 80. Everything feels crisp, fresh and clean. It makes me itch to travel… without a/c.

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    • River, that cat lived to get on that table that he considered his own personal platform from which he could survey his realm i.e. the kitchen. Crisp, fresh, and clean is exactly how it feels around here now. Traveling could be fun now that autumn is here. 🤔

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  32. The weather is truly glorious right now. But we shall leave it behind next week for 3 weeks in Europe. Two of those weeks we’ll be biking from Paris to Bruges. A few days in London to cap it off.

    Then I will work my butt off with book launch and other presentations for a couple weeks. November and December, I plan to shut out the world. Yeah.

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    • Eilene, your plans are exciting, perhaps the weather in Europe will be as glorious as yours is now? I’m sure you’ll return refreshed and ready to tackle your book launch plus a little more. Have fun biking and take photos to share here in blogland! You know how we all love to see the world.

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  33. Mmmm caramel apples.
    I am still in the thick of gardening! I have so much to do, Ally! And I am in the garden every day and have been since April. So, I’ll be gardening. But! I’ll also be travelling, so that will get in the way of gardening. I’m road tripping for only five days in a few weeks, but then we are going to Italy at the end of October! I’m very excited. Lots to do before then!
    Oh, and this weekend I’ll be celebrating my younger son’s 19th birthday!
    I don’t share your feelings about hot weather but I do share your feelings about September – it’s such a perky, fresh month!

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    • Nicole, your garden photos have been inspiring. Thanks for sharing them. You garden like a pro, knowing how to grow the things. Road trip then a vacation in Italy! You’re living large, oh yes you are. Didn’t know that you were a hot weather person, but am sure we can still be friends despite our difference. I suspect that for both of us it’s a case of strong opinion, loosely held. 😜

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  34. It’s been in the 60’s overnight, although it’s still warm (right now, 85 degrees) during the day. That might change as Francine makes her presence known toward the end of the week. I’m still pretty much stuck in one place, relying on medical taxi services to get me around. We’re doing our best to keep the amount of leaving the house down to a minimum. Going on two years since I’ve done any leisure trips away from home, and to be honest, that suits me just fine. We’ve had the deck rebuilt, and I can get onto the deck, which gets me out of the house, anyway. We have the platform lift to get me down to the driveway so I can get into a taxi, or just to get to the driveway to sit. I’m happy…

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  36. It’s a wonderful 75℉ right now, the sun is shining, the windows are open, and I’m killing time on the computer instead of being productive. I did work outside this morning. 🙂 Fall means work to me because I have to divide and plant, cut back, put up fences, take in and store furniture and stuff. Most of all, I have to move those colorful leaves that everyone comes to see. 🙂 I love working out in the cooler temps but that will wear off as I wear down. 🙂 Then I’ll move on to cleaning closets.

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    • Judy, I can only imagine how much work it is to maintain your garden. Fall would be a busy time, obviously. You’re right that working outside in the cooler temps is great… until it isn’t. Closets. Yes those are on my to-do list too.

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  37. I love September too! It can be one of our hotter months, but the kids are back in school and the tourists are gone. Yay!

    I always have a list of to-dos… some of which I’ll get to and some not-so-much. We are just coming out of a bit of a heat wave, so I am looking forward to getting outside and playing in the garden.

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    • Janis, we also have tourists around here, day trip ones, who are in my way [often inadvertently]. Once Fall gets into full swing they’ll be a memory.

      I don’t even have a respectable to-do list at this point. August about did me in and I gave up even trying to pretend to do things. Now that it is cooler outside I’ll get back into the swing of being productive.

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  38. We just got through a very hot week in SoCal. Today the wind is cooler, it’s only 75 degrees, and I don’t hate everyone. Unfortunately, we still have fires, but I will take it. I might even contemplate putting out fall decor soon!

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    • Autumn, you hit it the nail on the head with I don’t hate everyone. That’s what August does to me, makes me surly and exhausted in equal measures. Fall decor! I should think about doing that, too.

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  39. Shockingly enough, I feel like our summer never really got ridiculously hot and humid as it has in the past. For which I am grateful. Based on the upcoming forecast, it looks like it’s going to be in the 70s for a few days. As for fall activities. We are headed up to see my mother in law for her 93rd birthday and after that it’s time for me to buckle down and find a job!

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    • Gigi, we had SUMMER here, in all her glory, but I understand what you mean. A 93rd birthday party! Oh that is special and wonderful. As for finding a job, sending good wishes and positive vibes your way. If it isn’t one thing, it’s another.

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  40. I’m glad you’re experiencing cooler weather!
    Some friends have already been apple picking–a great fall activity. I didn’t go this time, though I’ve gone with them in the past. The same friends also are already planning their annual Halloween party. I’ve gone to that every year.
    Watching the leaves change is always lovely. I don’t have to go anywhere to experience fall colors, unlike another friend is planning to travel to see fall colors since in her state, the color of fall is green.

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  41. September is generally our hottest month but this year, it’s not too bad. I’m waiting for the retaining wall to finally be built in the front yard so that I can try to salvage the hillside before the rains set in. Right now it’s a huge mess. After that I take a week off and head to Hawaii. Then … I may get back on track!

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    • Jan, is that right? It’s your hottest month. August wins that honor here. Years ago we had a retaining wall built and it has made a positive difference in our yard. Hope yours does the same. Hawaii! Oh that sounds like fun. ALOHA!

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  42. Will I be organized, boisterous, rebellious ? (OR all three?) I sure hope to be a little of each after the spring and summer I’ve had! ❤️

    This summer was so humid and just unbearable to be outside. I’m really hoping for a much cooler fall (my favorite season, too). When you said, “I’m alive again!”—I felt that 100 percent. Opening the windows makes me (and the whole house) come back to life. I am definitely not built for warm weather.

    Your cat was adorable! What was his name?

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    • Kari, I’m thinking I’ll be all three, so feel free to do the same. You deserve it after what you’ve been through.

      I adore opening the windows again and our are open now. That’s when I know fall is here.

      The cat’s name was Spike and he lived to get on tables. Not counters or sofas, but tables. I found the photos when I was sorting through family photos earlier this summer and thought I’d toss them into the post as an example of rebellious.

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  43. I have to admit, we are transitioning from my favorite season to my 3rd favorite season.

    Not a fan of pumpkin spiced anything. I miss the long lighted evenings, the bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and even the heat of summer. Sigh!

    To each his (or her) own. Happy September!

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    • Laurie, oh dear, you are heading into something that’s not your preference. A couple other commenters have said how Summer is their favorite season. I’m with you about your indifference to pumpkin spice, though.

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    • Donna, if our weather had been more agreeable August would be okay, BUT not this year. Too hot. Too humid. Too blah. However now that it’s September my bounce is back.

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  45. We’re fortunate to live in an area that is not humid. I am thankful for that every day (unless we’re having fire season, then a little humidity might be helpful). I, like you, enjoy the cooler weather of Autumn. Cool mornings, warm afternoons. It’s delightful. But it’s so dry here that I am coming to feel like I prefer spring to fall…we still get the cool mornings and warm afternoons, but everything is green. Oh, but the fall colors! I love the fall colors, though we’re a ways from that around here. Plans? No plans really.

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    • J, if it got dry around here in the Fall I’d be with you about Spring. I do like the pastel colors of that season, but Fall colors are the best. The only downer can be if we have torrential rains that knock down the leaves before they’ve shown their colors. I’m at the “no plans” place too. We’ll see what transpires.

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  46. First – I love your observation about the sweltering temps when “it’s too hot to think straight”. Good golly – yes. I think humidity hampers my neurons. Seriously.
    Second – In the coming months I would like to be all three of the things you mentioned. Rebellious enough to avoid organizing, thereby creating opportunities to be boisterous. Maybe? 😉

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  48. 104 is too hot! We were down near Sacramento, CA this weekend and it was 100+ (said it was going to be 113 on Saturday but I never checked to see if it got that hot — because it was hot enough). It is really energy sapping for sure!

    And no one ever has brought me a bowl of wine. What’s up with that?

    Glad you are enjoying cooler temperatures. We are back in Seattle where it is nice in the 70’s! Whew!

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    • Wynne, ugh to Sacramento temps, not my kind of comfortable temps. You understand it about energy sapping temperatures.

      I know what you mean about no bowls of wine. How could this be? Am I not worthy of such indulgence? Apparently I am not.

      The 70s are wonderful, could live happily in those temps. However anything over 90 degrees is too much for me.

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  49. Of course I’m glad for autumn to roll around, although for us it usually doesn’t arrive in full force until the very end of September or October. After thirty-plus years of working outside right through the Texas heat and humidity in July, August, and often September: well, I guess I’ve learned to cope. I don’t like it, but my chosen profession demands being outside no matter the heat or cold. Working early in the morning and until the very end of the day does help in summer; you’ll almost never seen me out on the docks between 1:00 and 4:00 or 5:00 when it’s worst. Mid-day is laundry, grocery, and sometimes nap time!

    But fall is coming, and my motto’s going to be “have camera, will travel.” I don’t know where I’m going, or how often I can find a long weekend to poke around, but work kept me tied down all summer, and I’m ready for a little break. The prairies are beautiful in autumn, and the tourists mostly are gone from the beaches; I’m really excited for next month.

    I’ll also be turning the oven on again: pumpkin bread, pecan pie, apple cake, and other such treats are in the offing!

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    • Linda, you’ve learned how to adapt to the extreme temps in a way I’d never thought of before. I understand why you do as you do, smart woman. You’re right, in your chosen profession you have to accept the weather as it is and carry on.

      Your fall motto is great. I might have to co-opt it because while there are no beach worth visiting here we do have beautiful rivers and prairie lands. I made pumpkin bread last week because it was cool enough outside that I felt okay turning on the oven inside.

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  50. I “get you “Ally. Like you I love Autumn and I have thoroughly enjoyed this little cool spell we had over the last week. I took some long walks and made up for lost time, cleaned out and washed my car and even weeded and pruned, inspired by not sweating for these chores. It was all good except one day when the weather mavens said it was gloriously cool and it was 81 degrees driving home at mid-day. Surely they jest – 81 is not cool in my book. I am looking forward to the color changes, sweaters and no A/C in the house. Right now it is 79 outside at 8:43 p.m. … I have not succumbed to the A/C and have given it a much-needed break so it can power through the rest of September which is supposed to be above average – ugh.

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    • Linda, you’ve jumped into your autumn weather doing all the things. I understand that motivation. It’s as if a switch has been thrown and I suddenly want to be productive and have some fun. Our AC is off now, but if it should get as warm inside again I’ll turn it on. Our September temps look average, too. I like normal weather, something I can deal with knowing it is going to be… normal.

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    • Bernie, you really are jumping into winter almost straightaway. Don’t know what I’d make of that. Yes, we used to have cats. I found the photos while sorting through all those old family ones. I love cat attitude, but am allergic to their fur, so after the last one died we/I decided to do without.

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  52. The temperatures here have finally broken for a long enough stretch that I don’t believe we’ll be getting an Indian summer – which is my favourite kind – when it’s lovely and sunny without being horridly hot and uncomfortable. But I am ready to welcome autumn with all it’s beautiful colours and the freshness in the air. The bit I hate most about high summer temps is having to keep the curtains drawn and the windows shut between 8am and 2pm when the sun moves off our apartment. I get up early just to fling the patio doors open and bring in some fresh air before I have to go into purdah. Being shut indoors in the heat *and* in the dark gives me serious cabin fever.

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    • Deb, beautiful colors, fresh air! Yes, yes, that’s what draws me to autumn. We usually experience Indian Summer in October so we’re a ways off on that. We do the same thing as you do with our blinds on those extremely sunny summer days and it ends up feeling like cabin fever like you said. It’s odd but it is the same trapped inside experience like with the snow/ice in the winter.

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  53. I dislike way too hot temperatures as well, but I love summer and I hate that fall is approaching fast! I don’t wanna stop wearing shorts and t-shirts and I do not look forward to wearing a jacket again.

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  54. Fall is also my favorite time of year, my grandmother’s too. (dad’s mom) I hear you on the renewed energy/ sense of anticipation. Very specific plans, since you asked. Hoping to get a basement wall poured for our new build the end of September, then floor poured in October, so/ knock on wood, I can get it enclosed before the snow flies. The honey is harvested, and 1/3 of the apple crop is in the cooler, onions are dug…so the farmer in me, feels great. How about you? Do you have specific plans, or are you just going to wing it, as you said?

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    • DM, you’ve nailed it with your idea that there is a sense of anticipation in fall that calls to me, especially after our unusually hot August temps. I can understand how getting your new house underway would be paramount in your mind. I like your plan, fingers crossed the weather works with you. I like your farmer list, things I won’t be doing but enjoy knowing you do. Oddly enough the only things I have specifically planned for the fall are a couple of annual doctor visits, but after that it’s all open. We’ll see what evolves. Thanks for asking.

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  56. Ally, I am so over summer too. I say it out loud at least once a day: “Why do we live in Florida? It is so disgustingly hot!”
    I will be so overjoyed when fall actually arrives, but it generally takes it sweet time getting here, usually coming in around late November. 🤣 (I will have to visit GA to get a reprieve)

    Cats! They do what they want. Right?

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  58. 104?! Wow that’s hot. I think 80 is about as hot as I like it, but things don’t get very warm here in the UK, though we’ve had a few days around 95 this summer when, like you Ally, I get very irritable, there’s just no air (I have to look up temperature conversions as I type as we do everything in Celsius, so this is good for my education!)

    I’m looking forward to Autumn too, mostly winging it, I’d like to be a bit rebellious with a trip to Japan (kids would have to miss a few days- ahem 7- off school) but it could be good, or we might just stay home & get cozy.

    Enjoy the cooler weather Ally, good luck with those decisions.

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    • Rae Cod, it has been unusually hot this last month and it wears me down. I realize I’m not alone with this, but staying inside in the AC all the time makes a person feel disconnected from humanity.

      A trip to Japan! Oh that’s the kind of rebellion that is good for a soul. I’ve never thought of going there but have read good things about the experience. IF you go you’ll report back on your adventures, right?

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  59. YES. To all of this. I think autumn is my favorite season, too. I appreciate and enjoy spring’s return to gardening, but knowing that summer is on the other side of that season dampens my joy in it just a bit. But fall! Cooler temps, no holidays, back to school. Like you, I find this time of year energizing. This summer was, overall, sucky. I’m such a happier camper now than I was even a week ago. I could not care less about pumpkin flavored things and plaid, but I so like the lighter schedule + cozy time so, so much. (Can you feel my almost-giddiness coming through?)

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    • Rita, you and I are two peas in an autumnal pod! Like you, with the arrival of the cooler temps I’m feeling good, more relaxed, and thrilled to wake up every morning. It’s a cozy time of year here, too. No major holidays to deal with, no icy streets to navigate, instead just pretty trees and fresh apples. I’m a simple person at heart so that’s about all it takes to make me happy.

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      • We are! Aren’t we lucky that it doesn’t take much to make us happy? I’m realizing that part of some struggle I’ve had with the winter holidays has been more about reluctance to let go of fall than the holidays themselves. I’m hoping this new insight will help me do a better job of making the most of fall while it’s here and then embracing what’s good about winter, when it comes. (Maybe I can then figure out how to better tolerate summer, but that feels like a big jump right now.)

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  60. I’m enjoying September, because it’s not so hot and yet the crazy holiday season is still not with us. I’d enjoy it more if we weren’t in an extended dry period for the past three weeks, but if we could get a little rain, I’d be a truly happy camper!

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    • Ann, you’re right about holiday seasons being right around the corner. September is a good respite from what will come. In the last week or so it’s gotten dry here, too. With you about the rain, our grass is crunchy.

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  61. I love the colors of fall. I go crazy taking pictures of all the beautiful trees.

    This weekend my daughter from the other coast is visiting for a week. Near the end of the week, all three daughters, one son-in-law and I will spend a few days in a house by the sea.

    I love the cat picture. My mom had a cat that was good about staying off the table. She was convinced she trained the cat. I’m convinced that many cats (most cats) cannot be trained.

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    • Nicki, I take lots of photos of fall foliage too. You have to, don’t you?

      Your family get-together sounds like fun. I’m sure you’ll have a great time at a house by the sea.

      While I’m happy that your mother had a cooperative cat, I’ve found that the ones I’ve lived with have their own rules of conduct regardless of what I try to get them to do. They train me, not the other way around.

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  63. Ally, I live in Florida where Autumn passes by undetected. I typically decorate the dining table and front door with Fall colors, just to remind me of what it is supposed to look like. But, this year we are taking a drive north to see it all first-hand. I am looking forward to cooler weather, less humidity and color, glorious color.

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  64. Ah, dear September, my favourite month. I find that September often brings a sense of renewal and change, marking the transition from summer to fall. Like you, Ally, I appreciate the cooler temperatures and the return to routine as schools reopen and autumn activities commence. In August, I feel like the end of summer, the impending end of vacation time, which evokes in me a sense of melancholy. And then there is the vibrant colours of fall foliage and the anticipation of seasonal festivities. I have already stocked up my cupboards with tea and have a list of books ready for the lengthening evenings.

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    • Rebecca, like you in September I feel a sense of renewal that makes getting through August heat worth it [maybe]. I like the return to routines even though we’re way beyond school days in this house. Funny you mention books, just this last week I started a pile of what I think I’ll want to read in the evenings now. Somehow seeing them ready to go makes me feel more into autumn vibes.

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  65. We spent three weeks at the beach to escape the desert heat. Now that I’m back, I’ve had lots to do. It’s only a high of 100 now that we’re back home. But I got unused to the heat really quickly. I’m dragging until it cools down.

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  66. Our weather has behaved the complete opposite. August was cool, a little wet. September has been hot and bone dry. I’m still waiting for fall to arrive over here!

    This weekend, we’re celebrating our 11th anniversary. At the end of the month, I’m taking two days off to travel Up North for a (hopefully cool, pleasant) waterfall hike. No real concrete plans beyond September at this point.

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  68. The next two months are my favorite time of the year. I will be organized in that there are several projects I need to complete. I, too, procrastinated on the the things I felt I could not do in temps that felt like triple-digits.

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    • Dan, I’m usually pretty good at getting things done in a timely fashion but this last August just about did me in. I understand your procrastination and mine. Here’s to a fun and productive September and October.

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  69. Ha ha! I am now in India and the transition from Pittsburgh to a tropical city was an ease. That is how Pittsburgh was 😊. We will be back home soon and I am all set to do apple picking and halloween stuff in the cold 🥶 weather. Yes it is going to be cold as it is in tge high ninties in the southern Indian city, Chennai.

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    • ganga1996, how interesting that the summer temps in Pittsburgh prepared you for where you are now in India. You’re right, it’s going to seem cold when you get back to PA. I hadn’t thought ahead to Halloween but it is right around the corner and it is fun so something to look forward to this autumn.

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  70. How did I not know you have a cat?!?! I demand a post full of pictures and the adoption story and any cute, quirky feline habits!!
    As for autumn, mine is same old, same old . . . except for our first ever trip to Charleston. That has put a spring in my step such that I’ll probably be bouncing by mid-October.
    And as far as A/C goes, while I very much appreciate the comfort it gives (and ability to sleep) during oppressive heat waves, the thing I hate is not being able to have my entire house of windows open. I wait all year, through long, brutal Minnesota winters, for those glorious few months in which I can let the outside in. Then a heat wave comes along and makes me a shut-in again. Boo and hiss.

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    • The Travel Architect, we had cats and these are photos from long ago. I am allergic to cats so we probably shouldn’t have had them, but I adore their orneriness and purrs so we did. For years. And now we don’t. I breath better so that’s how it has to be.

      I’m with you about open windows. LOVE THEM. So now that we’re in the cooler days of late summer/autumn they are open, AC is off. Some years it doesn’t get cold here until November so they’re open until then. Am hoping you’re enjoying the outside inside right now!

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  71. Hi Ally! I, too, am enjoying beautiful September weather in the upper 70’s to 80F, with cool nights. I love autumn too, with the colors and smells, the sunflowers and pumpkins, and the sounds of the geese and sandhill cranes gathering in the fields before they make their way south.

    Plans? 1) Bike more this autumn. I was rarely on the trails over the summer (too hot, or rainy, or windy, or just plain too busy), so I am determined not to sit idly by when I can be out among the fall foliage. 2) Make soup, like squash soup, shrimp and corn chowder, Adventist gumbo (a veggie soup from one of my cookbooks); make new recipes and the comfort food that I put aside over the summer months. 3) Spend time in the garden, cleaning it up, tending to the flowers until they decide it’s too cold and submerge into the ground. 4) Enjoy having my bedroom window open at night, enjoying the fresh air, until it gets too cold and I have to close it for six months. 5) Visit with friends that I may not see over the winter months due to distance. 6) Continue to enjoy the friends that are close by and here in the blogosphere. 7) Get back to painting and crafting. 8) Count my blessings.

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    • Mary, we’re begining to see the Canada geese flying in their amazing V formations so I know it is autumn for sure. I like the sunflowers and pumpkins too. I’m a sucker for those colors.

      You are one organized woman with your specific plans. I’m impressed. After our hot/humid days of eating salads all the time I’m ready to cook comfort foods this fall. We’re slowly cleaning up the flower beds, waiting until each perennial looks bedraggled. I enjoy fresh air at night while I sleep so this time of year is a blessing in that regard. Well, a blessing in all regards; I’m with you on 8.

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  72. I’ll be nurturing my new plant family. You inspired me by naming yours, Ally. Today while grocery shopping, I bought a Lemon Button fern whom I decided to name LB, in part after my daughter Lauren. Meanwhile, back at home, Penelope, my pothos, has been thriving. She needed a new pot. A good excuse for more steps, I ran to Lowe’s for new said pot. Lo and behold, the most adorable Pink Angel Fittonia. I brought her home—she’s Pink to me—I repotted all three.

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  73. Oh, Ally Bean — we have been sweltering here ourselves. Well, I should say we were! We live in a coastal city of San Diego county and we don’t have air conditioner. It’s lovely most of the time, with cool ocean breezes, many mornings starting out with a marine layer that gives way mid-morning most days. But it was miserable for about a week, with highs in the low 90s! Our house is well-insulated and can usually keep heat at bay if it’s only a day or 2 but almost a week is too much to battle. We arrived from a very cool (cold, actually) Alaska cruise so the extreme change/difference in the weather was even more noticeable! Thank goodness it’s back to mid 70s again with cool breezes! I don’t do well in the heat as well so I am very happy!

    We got all of our traveling done for the year (almost a month in Europe in June, 10days in Alaska/Vancouver late last month/early Sept) so I’m looking forward to getting back to my routine. I desperately need to get organized and clean house — but it’s not fun so I keep putting it off! Oh!! I’d like to go apple-picking; there’s an orchard an hour away so I think I need to look into their schedule. They had Bosc pears, too, which were sooooo good!

    Whatever you decide to do for fall, I’m sure it’s the perfect thing for you!

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    • M, cool refreshing breezes I’m all about so I can imagine what a shock it was to come off an Alaskan cruise to find your home temps were in the 90s. Glad your temps are back to your normal.

      Europe and Alaska in one year! You have been adventurous and that’s wonderful. Cleaning house, while necessary, is a bit less exciting, I get that.

      I don’t know of any apple picking places near us, but would enjoy that. I’ll look into it now that I think about it. I could see us doing that.

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  74. I live in Florida so sadly, fall doesn’t mean much here! Although today I stepped outside and it didn’t feel NEARLY as humid as it usually does so I am hoping we get some pleasant weather. I’ll take 80 degrees and breezy PLEASE. This is the time of year when I am just OVER the heat and jealous of everyone wearing long pants/sweaters, lol.

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    • Stephany, yes living in FL would make autumn kind of a non-event. I can understand that. I’m glad your humidity is down though, at least that’s something. Not quite to the long pants/sweater weather yet, but heading that way.

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  76. Oh, I was anticipating exactly where you were going with this the further I started reading. Yes, exactly, Ally, we have no more excuses to put off things. Today has been the first fall-like day, temperature wise, and I realized that I can no longer put off doing a deep clean of our patio. I’m sure there are at least three or four other chores that I’ve also been using the heat as an excuse! – Marty

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  78. I am not a summer person. I wilt in the heat, extreme humidity, and long glaring sunny days. Yes the shift is starting even here (still 93F this noon, but hope of a front!) We try to escape somewhere in the Mts until the heat breaks a bit. Now home, the plants are quite cranky that they have been left to fend for themselves ….a few minutes outdoors a day, but until that first cold front, gut it up foliage. (Being stuck indoors is the main reason my holiday shopping is done…it gets darn boring indoors – and by doing it early, I have more time to do fun stuff once it’s actually fall weather) Chill, environment, chill.

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    • philmouse, I’m like you, heat and humidity do me in and my mind turns to mush. Can’t think straight which drives me bonkers. I’m glad you got away to the mountains and am sure your foliage will bounce back to life once it knows you’re home. Perhaps it was missing you, bereft of your companionship. I like your reasoning about doing holiday shopping early. Fall, then Christmas, fun stuff is the best. Now all we need is some consistently cooler temps.

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  79. “My little Caramel apples of inspiration” – lol I love it! I also hate hot weather, but happy Autumn is here.
    We get winter a little early here in Minnesota, but right now – it’s cold in the mornings and can go up to 80 in the afternoon. Drives me crazy.

    Excellent post.

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    • Shel, thanks for reading and commenting. I’m happy about autumn, too. It’s raining like crazy here now, that while good for the trees and grass, makes me want to stay inside. So much for walking over crunchy leaves.

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      • You’ll get to the crunchy leaves part. I promise. 🙂 Our trees are just starting to change colors here, and I wish the cooler weather would stick around all day, but I also know that we have snow in October sometimes here and our snow trucks just started coming out to prepare. Ick! I wish we had rain. I actually love rain. Nope. It’s supposed to be sunny and 80 here today for no good reason. ha.

        Have a great day!

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