OK, so summer is over for most of the country.

But down here in Bradenton, Florida, we still have two months to go before the chill of November arrives, and I can wear sweatshirts, jeans, and socks.

We still have hurricanes to worry about, but I am less concerned this year. Of course, I felt that way when we still lived in East Quogue, thinking that, as we approached Halloween, the hurricane season was over and we dodged another threat of wreak and havoc.

Two days later, Super Storm Sandy struck, and we had no electricity for nearly a week.

Still, we were merely inconvenienced and suffered no damage.

Fall also brings the baseball playoffs and the real start of the football season.

So far this year, the Yankees look capable of going deep into the playoffs, and even the Jets appear to be ready to compete for a slot, even if only as a wild card.

Of course, the change of seasons has not been lost on commercial entities, as many department stores have mixed Christmas items with their Halloween displays.

Apparently, we are supposed to be finished Christmas shopping by October, so those of us who put off shopping until a more traditional time may experience shorter lines and fewer gifts to purchase.

Well, fall is still a beautiful time of year, so enjoy the beautiful displays of colors in the trees and the crispness of the air.