Autumn is my favorite time of the year. September 22, (Autumnal Equinox), marked the transitioning to cooler temperatures, the harvest, deer season, colorful leaves, the second round of dove season...hunting.

The season certainly stimulates the senses. The turning of leaves is more beautiful than any painting. The unmistakable aroma of burning of leaves is certainly a signature of the season. Ladies with lots of hair probably have a deep appreciate for autumn. The high humidity during the summer plays havoc even on the most manicured mane. Just ask my older daughter. She is so grateful for the drop in participation, last week she took a picture of her non-frizzed locks and posted it on her Facebook page. I guess everybody has his or her own way of celebrating.

Cities like to throw festivals and host various activities in observation of the season. A couple of weeks ago Irmo hosted the Okra Strut, obviously in time for the harvest of the South's gumbo king. On Saturday, our HomeTown Chamber, along with the Town of Kingstree and local merchants celebrated the season with Falling For Families festival. Kids got to frolic down Academy Street, wearing themselves out in the inflatable bounce houses, petting lamas and goats, and eating as much junk as they could pack away. Next weekend is the annual Pig Pickin' Festival and its BBQ cook-off.

However, autumn hasn't quite made its debut and that's got me somewhat aggravated. There's a dresser drawer crammed with a plethora of sweaters and vests - all saturated in the colors of earth - just waiting to warm me up on a chilly morn'. Three fresh plump pumpkins are sitting in the garage - blank - untouched by the edge of a carving knife. And to top it off, the Sergeant Major has set aside a deer stand just for me. It too sits idle - probably home to a hoard of nesting wasps that plan on lighting up my camouflaged rear-end the moment I invade their dry, protected space. Until the season finally shows up, I must devise constructive ways to occupy my time. Lets see...I could painstakingly polish the brass of each 270 bullet. Or I could wash my clothes in so-scent soap and practice applying camo makeup. Oh, I know! I can bide my time ingesting "fall-ish" sweets. Keeping with the season I could concoct a savory nibble in autumn-appropriate shades of brown, such as dove dark chocolates dipped in warm caramel. Yes, I believe I might survive the lingering heat. So will the wasps - at least for another day or two.