Labor Day is a holiday meant to celebrate the working-folk by giving us a day off. But for those of us who love the outdoors, Labor Day marks the beginning of a glorious time of year where work and play ramp up to a level worthy of the wonderfully cool weather.

I don’t know about you, but I always feel conflicted this time of year. On any given sunny, perfect Saturday, how on earth do I find time to:

• work in the garden
• have coffee on the porch
• plant grass seed
• spread some mulch
• plant, divide, and transplant
• ride my bike
• enjoy a campfire
• go swimming
• take a walk with my camera
• wash the car
• have a cookout
• take a nap in the sun

And the list goes on . . . .

After a languid summer that’s too hot to move very fast, Labor Day marks an almost startling shift in pace, where each day becomes a challenge in time management. Or, should I say, “breeze management,” because we all know that the season is short, and each breeze must be savored before it gives way to cold winter winds.

Colors get a little brighter, fall perennials start their show, the air gets a little crisper, and anything’s worth doing as long as it’s outside. I hope you have time this Labor Day to rest a little, play a little, and work a little on projects you enjoy. And I hope that no matter what you’re doing, you’re cooled by a nice soft breeze!