The days are getting noticeably shorter, and the evenings are certainly cooler. It seems almost overnight that we’ve gone from long, warm summer days to reaching for a sweater as the sun begins to set.
Many of us are looking around wondering, “What happened to summer?” But there is no denying it now – fall is arriving.
For some, this is a welcome change. They are ready for cozy sweaters, warm drinks, colourful leaves and everything that comes with sweater season. There is something undeniably appealing about crisp mornings, cool evenings and the familiar rhythm of autumn settling in.
For others, however, this time of year can be much harder.
The end of summer can feel like a loss, particularly for those who thrive on sunshine, heat and long days outdoors. And for some, the arrival of fall brings an unwelcome reminder that winter is just around the corner. Shorter days, colder temperatures and less time spent outside can have a real impact on our mood and well-being. While the changing seasons may be picturesque, we should not overlook the fact that this can be a difficult and even depressing time of year for many.
So, perhaps this fall, we can make a conscious effort to focus on what we still have rather than what we have lost.
For those of us who love to soak up the heat, all is certainly not lost. There is still time to take advantage of the milder weather – even if the temperatures are no longer reaching their summer highs. There are walks to take, trails to explore, patios to enjoy and communities to discover.
In fact, this is a wonderful time of year to get out and see what is happening close to home.
Exhibition weekends have started, and with fewer tourists around, there is an opportunity to slow down and take in some of the sights and attractions we may otherwise overlook. There are countless wonderful things happening in our own communities, often right in our own backyard. A local event, farmers’ market, gallery, museum, concert or community gathering can offer a welcome reason to get out of the house and connect with others.
And perhaps that is the most important thing to remember as the seasons change: we don’t have to rush toward winter.
It is too early to pack it in and hibernate.
There are still adventures waiting to be had, places to visit and people to see. There are still sunny afternoons, beautiful sunsets and plenty of reasons to step outside. We can embrace what is coming without letting go of what we still have.
Fall will come, and winter will follow. That is simply the way of things.
But before we pull the curtains, turn up the heat and settle in for the long season ahead, let’s make the most of these weeks in between.
Summer may be winding down, but there is still plenty of season left.