Without a doubt this is my favorite time of the year, late summer, and early fall. Right now, early September, its still summer, though a much cooler and more enjoyable summer where its pleasant to sit out on the hammock even in the sun.

Kids have gone back to school, and so most households are busy with their school oriented activities. Since I don’t have any kids, it means I can take a few days off here and enjoy the quiet of the off-season. In fact, my love of this time of year probably came about after I graduated.

Yesterday, I took the day off, and went with my husband and one of the dogs (Ares) to the local state park, with its hiking trails and lake for the Ares to swim. We packed a lunch and had a picnic. It wasn’t crowded, though Ares did get to play with a few other dogs where they are allowed to swim at the boat docks. The lifeguards are gone at the human beach, so we could let Ares walk on the sand and near the water, and even have a turn at trying to to toll (attract) a few ducks.

It was really a perfect sort of day.