It’s hard to imagine that autumn is just two weeks away officially. Many people have already resigned themselves to the fact that it is fall since Labor Day came and went as well as the Minnesota State Fair.

Ugh, I just dread thinking about the freezing cold temperatures and snowy roads that - in realty - are just two months away (or less).

I often tell people I know that Minnesota would be an ideal place to live if each season would stick to their allotted period of time. This place becomes a cold hell on earth when winter decides to jump the gun in October and then hang around like a squatter into late April or early May. Winter in Minnesota is like when you get a credit card...it’s welcome at the start but then becomes a torment as time passes. 

But, let’s not completely overlook autumn because to me, it’s the best season in this state. Temperatures begin to chill a little and — being somewhat selfish — my two favorite sports in hockey and football commence. Plus, the bugs start dying off and it’s time to start wearing sweatshirts (which is another thing I love). The only downside is the days get shorter and shorter...

Everyone has been saying, “where did the summer go?”

Well again, when winter sticks around well past their seasonal allotment, spring and summer become just glimpses from a moving train.

I’m glad I got a little more golfing in this year than I did the year before despite the glimpses in time. I’m glad I was able to attend outdoor family gatherings despite the glimpses in time. And I’m glad I got to drive my topless Jeep despite the glimpses in time.

I’m just hoping autumn stands strong and fights off the bullying tactics of winter. A few months of 65-70º weather leading up to Thanksgiving would be ideal.

No matter how hard-core a winter enthusiast is, nobody wants a return of the Halloween storm of ‘91, right? So let’s keep the white stuff and the chilly temperatures at bay until at least December...then have it go away in March. 

Is that too much to ask?