As much as September is a bridge between seasons, it is also a destination in itself and a valuable time on its own. Summer’s close can be made the most of by soaking up its unique energy and stepping into autumn feeling refreshed, accomplished, and prepared for whatever the future holds.
As the oven-like days and airless nights of August come to an end, September confidently announces its arrival with fresh energy. A distinct shift stirs in the air, accompanied by a subtle, invigorating freshness that signals the impending arrival of autumn. Yet, often, summer’s heat still lingers, creating a colourful and bittersweet transition. This is the time of the year when we instinctively try to savour every last drop of joy from the retreating hot season while also preparing for the rhythms of harvest time.
This month marks the return to routine for many people. The summer holidays come to an end, schools reopen, work schedules tighten, and a more structured lifestyle begins. There’s no need to stop having fun just because the party’s over. With September, you get to enjoy the best of both worlds: the lingering warmth for outdoor adventures and the feeling of fresh beginnings.
The question is: how can you make the most of this transitional month?
Embrace the wide-open outdoors
Don’t pack away your picnic blankets and hiking boots just yet! September often boasts some of the most delightful weather of the year. The intense heat of July and August subsides, making outdoor activities far more enjoyable. Why not plan another beach day, explore a new hiking trail, or simply relax and enjoy a coffee on the patio before the colder days arrive? Plus, farmers’ markets are still good, like juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, perfumed oranges and crisp apples, all perfect for eating them al fresco.
Harvest the season’s best
September is a prime month for harvesting. Whether you have a backyard garden overflowing with produce or you love visiting local farms, now’s the right moment to take advantage of the abundance. This is the ideal time for canning, preserving, or simply enjoying fresh, seasonal ingredients in your meals. Or why not whip up a big batch of salsa, some homemade apple butter, or a hearty vegetable soup to truly capture the essence of the season?
Reignite Your Routines (with a Twist)
While the term ‘scramble’ suggests the return to busy schedules, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. Use the renewed energy of September to establish positive routines that enhance your life. These could include setting a new fitness goal, committing to a weekly family dinner, or dedicating time to a personal project. The key is to infuse the habits with a touch of summer’s relaxed spirit. Maybe your morning run takes you through a park still vibrant with late-blooming flowers, or your evening reading session happens on a porch swing. Embrace the new season and make these routines work for you.
Plan a ‘Last Hurrah’ getaway
If a summer vacation felt too hectic, September is the golden ticket to a more relaxed pace and offers a brilliant alternative for a refreshing escape. Tourist destinations are often less crowded, prices can be lower, and the weather is frequently ideal. Why not consider a weekend trip to a charming small town, a scenic drive to admire unforgettable early autumn foliage, or simply unwind with a quiet retreat to a lakeside cabin? It can be the perfect opportunity to recharge before the colder months truly kick into gear.
Savour the smallest moments
Above all, September is about mindfulness and about appreciating the unique beauty of this in-between time. Notice the changing light, the subtle shift in the colours of the leaves, the scent of damp earth after a rain. Sip your pumpkin spice latte, enjoy a final glass of lemonade, but also be prepared for the best young wine of the year. Find joy in the balance of summer’s lingering warmth and autumn’s seasonal refreshing promise.
Credit photo: ©Elizabeth Mayston – ‘Autumn Reflection,’ oil on canvas
Who else but the artist herself can better describe the finely crafted artwork?
This Algarve original painting captures the beauty of foliage in a rich array of autumnal colours. I depicted the leaves in various shades of orange, yellow, green, and hints of red, conveying the essence of seasonal change. I played with light and shadow to add depth, making some leaves stand out in the foreground while others gently fade into the background. The result is a lively and dynamic composition, as if a soft breeze is rustling through the leaves.
