September 1

 

September has arrived, and I understand that not everyone may share the same level of excitement as those of us who have endured scorching summer temperatures and wildfires. While September itself may not bring immediate relief from the heat, it does signify the promise of cooler weather as we approach the end of the year.

In the northern region of California, the eagerly anticipated rainy season commences in October. This marks the time when the storm door unlocks in Alaska, ushering in a series of colder, damp storms. These downpours are embraced by all after a scorching summer characterized by relentless heat and arid conditions.

As September arrives, many homeowners begin readying their homes for the upcoming winter rains and cold. This may entail undertaking long-delayed projects, such as installing a new roof - the sound of pounding and the distinct smell of tar become familiar signs of the approaching Fall. 

One year we replaced the windows and the roof, just before...

For us, it's always just in time. 

 Or installing a new HVAC.

Just in time, too, because we had our first significant storm that night. 

 Simultaneously, others take the opportunity to plant new lawns, aiming to reduce the need for extensive watering and establish a picturesque spring setting by carefully placing bulbs for vibrant and colorful blooms. The availability of bulbs in stores serves as a gentle reminder to promptly secure them, as delaying may result in missing out altogether. Meanwhile, some homeowners delve into the task of rejuvenating their houses with fresh coats of paint, while others turn their attention to nurturing winter gardens, sowing peas, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, and an assortment of salad greens - Making certain that fences are sturdy and performing any necessary repairs before the arrival of the strong winter winds.

Probably similar to what you might find in other regions of the country...

In the past, the beginning of the school year was typically after Labor Day, but nowadays, children return to school as early as August 15th. 

I miss that. 

Our current temperatures are in the low 100s, but the mornings feel comfortably cool, and our lows are now around the low 60s, providing some relief as well as hope that Fall will soon be here. 

Autumn is the best season to see California—or at least it used to be. It's the time when the temperatures dip to a pleasant 70-80 range, making it perfect for hiking adventures! Lower temperatures enhance the overall experience, allowing me to sustain my energy levels for longer periods. Higher temperatures tend to deplete my energy. I absolutely avoid hiking when the temperature is between 90 and 100 degrees. It just feels like a disaster waiting to happen for me.

We used to take off for some cooling coastal relief in Sept or October. 

No tourists - less people. less traffic

Or enjoy camping when the campsites are almost empty. 

Driving into the backside of Yosemite on 395

Personally, Sept 1 has me thinking back to 

fond sentimental memories - 

I lived in Burlingame in 1977 when Michael was born on August 7. I vividly remember the cooler temperatures arriving in September, and I have such a clear memory of walking with him in the stroller. The streets were lined with eucalyptus trees, and their aromatic scent wafted through the air, accompanied by a subtle hint of cold. We used to turn our clocks back a couple of weeks earlier than we do now, and I preferred it that way.

Fact Check: I looked it up out of curiosity, and it was only a couple of days—we turned our clocks back on Oct 31, 1977, and this year, it will be on Nov 3. 

And then, after all of that,  the rainy season arrives. 

Take Care

Debby