It is that time of year again. The kids are back to school, daylight hours are noticeably shorter and, reluctantly, we are considering pulling out the winter coats that we so gleefully shoved in the back of the wardrobe in late April.

Summer is over. We are officially in September and with it often comes a sense of the fun being over. However, September should not be associated with doom and gloom, it is a transition month. So, think autumn, cosy scarfs, copper leaves crunching underfoot and a combination of the best of summer and winter.

With that in mind, here are a few tips to spruce up your September and to stop it becoming a month of manic school runs and a prolonged countdown to Christmas.

Last of the summer road trips

The weather may be getting seasonably cooler but the September days are still relatively long, so it is always a good time to sneak in one last summer road trip. Pick a weekend, pack up the car, make the sandwiches, get the kids, get the raincoats (just in case), put out the Child of Prague, pray for fine weather and take to the open road. The possibilities are endless. Visit www.discoverireland.ie to see what is on around the country.

Walk away

Whatever else you may think about this time of year, you cannot deny the natural beauty associated with autumn. Green turns to gold and the countryside transforms around us. Ireland is packed full of great walking trails, so why not take this opportunity to appreciate nature and take in some of that crisp September air? Visit www.irishtrails.ie to find a walking trail suitable for you.

Transition

It may be hard to let go of your summer wardrobe, so we suggest a gradual weaning period. September is a great time to blend summer and winter fashions. Start by adding things back in as they become appropriate. Try scarves, hats and boots before the heavy-duty items like jackets and winter woollies. The idea of packing away your summer clothes may seem sad, but think of all the winter pieces you put away that you have completely forgotten about. It is like buying new clothes without the expense.

Take a class

So much starts in September. To coincide with back-to-school, usually a whole heap of evening classes are on offer. Take some time to yourself, even if it is only an hour a week, and try something new. Yoga, mindfulness, dressmaking, woodworking, tai chi, you name it. Look for a list of what is on at your local schools and community hall and get stuck in. CL