Summer's End

The seasons here in Oregon seem to be out of sync at times. Spring pushed its way deep into the summer, just like winter had done to spring. Today is officially the first day of fall, yet it worked its way up to the low 90's again. Is this normal??? I would say it really is. Every year at this time, the days get warm but the evening sky drops a little faster each day. the longer nights allow the temps to drop - sometimes into the 30's or 40's.

The most wonderful aspect of this season is the changes we see around us;leaves on trees turn into a masterpiece of color, clouds come & go (sometimes giving us cleansing showers), kids return to school (with new enthusiasm & clothes), and the rush of trying to milk out the maximum enjoyment of summer is over. Unlike many parts of this country, we have the blessing of four distinct seasons and can enjoy each of them as they occur.

It is only fitting that the end of summer occurs with a time of festivities, similar to the beginning. We start the summer with Memorial Day and the 4th of July celebration. As summer draws to a close, we always spend time at the Oregon State Fair around Labor day, followed by indulging in the exquisite cuisine of the Oktoberfest just two weeks later. These events generally also welcome the first measurable rains of the new season (like magnets). It is therefore no surprise that only five days after the Oktoberfest(which is in September for some strange reason, a different topic) is the official dawning of AUTUMN.

I will now say 'good bye' to summer for another year. Will I not personally miss the hot days,but I will I miss the late hour sunsets or early sunrises. I will also enjoy being able to sleep in comfort, not soaked from the unbearable temperatures inside the house. So again, goodbye summer, see you next year.