don't you dare break my Fall

Septoctnocember? Give me a break. Honestly, who goes Christmas shopping in September? If you're one of those people, please stop. You're sending a message to the retail industry that we don't need autumn, that we can jump right from the beach to the snow banks.

I've made it no secret that fall is my favorite time of year. It's the one context aside from Reese's Pieces where the colors orange and brown actually make sense (with apologies to my alma mater). I love the smell of a freshly-raked pile of leaves, a mug of hot apple cider and a bowl of chili with cornbread and honey. I love the crisp air that's just cold enough for a light jacket. I love carving pumpkins. I love how Thanksgiving is a day devoted to delicious food without all the pomp and preparation (and subsequent relief and letdown) of Christmas. Plus, turkey cookies. I mean, come on.

I even love the allure of Cascade Park's foliage, only to discover that the leaves covering the rocks and paths actually make for a rather dangerous hike.

I Christmas shop based on wish lists I get from people. Our tradition is to exchange these lists on or shortly after Thanksgiving, so I really can't shop any earlier.

Further, I'm tired of this "we need to get rid of our current stock three months before the season ends" nonsense. Gone on vacation in August and forgot your swimsuit at home? Too bad -- the retail stores are already stocked with sweaters and jackets! Need a new winter coat on February 28 -- when, in Ohio, there are still two more months of snow left? Good luck!

OK, so maybe it's not quite that bad, but I am one of those crazy people who only buys clothes when he needs them rather than by "season." You know, like, "oh gee it's March already and I don't have anything new for the summer season!" Ehh?? I guess that's the sort of folk the retail industry is targeting.

But that's no excuse for Christmas shopping in September. Please don't take autumn away from me, people.

  Thanks.