The end of summer always makes me sad. I'm not talking about the "official" end, according to the calendar. I mean the day that you actually realize that the hot, lazy days of summer are almost gone. You walk outside and you are slapped with that feeling to clench up because the cool air is unexpected. It's like being slapped in the face out of the blue by a trusted friend. Now begins the careful peering at the thermometer to figure out what clothing is best for the day ahead. Will it get warmer during the day and make you broil in a pair of pants? Or, will you underdress and find yourself with the start of miserable cold?

My favorite part about the summer is sitting outside at night. The soft, heated air, the twinkle of fireflies and the singing of crickets make summer nights something that must be experienced. Just relaxing outside at night with a cold drink and a good book can be one of the most stress-free experiences left.

But, now the evenings are growing cold and the fireflies are gone. It is time to break out the sweaters and hunker down for the coming of winter. After all, there's only 91 days of Christmas shopping left...