Labor Day, the start of school, flipping the calendar to September, the first maple tree leaves turning red, the fall equinox… We often debate
when summer really ends, but we are splitting hairs when we argue which date exactly announces the arrival of fall. They all mean the same thing: the end of summer.
I think it’s more important to realize why it’s such a big deal.
Summer feels like freedom, irresponsibility and relaxation all rolled into one. Kids don’t have homework and are told to go play outside. Adults plan weekends of leisure and flock to patios to sip drinks with friends.
To say goodbye to summer feels like you are taking back all the work and drudgery you were able to leave behind last spring when the snow finally melted. To say goodbye to summer feels like you closing a chapter.
And sometimes, that is a good thing.
Fall gives you a fresh start. The promise of new school supplies and fresh schedules makes you optimistic. Clearing out the dying garden gives you less yard work. The crisp, cool air clears your head.
For us, we are looking forward to fall. As much as I love the flexibility of not watching the clock, I need some structure for my kids’ days. And our summer was more eventful than we wanted it to be, with broken bones and trips to emergency rooms.
We were lucky enough to celebrate the end of summer with friends. They have a charming, relaxing cabin on a quiet lake. The weather was perfect. There was plenty to eat and drink. The children all got along with one another. No one had any major accidents.
It was the perfect way to end the summer.
We are ready for a new chapter. Welcome to fall.
