As we head into September we see the first real signs of fall -- a few orange leaves here, a splash of golden ones over there. The air seems clearer, the sky brighter.

It's the month when the pools get covered and we put away the lawn furniture, as we look to other forms of activity - like good long walks in brisk cool air - at last!

Here in Central New York, September is the time to store the summer clothes and shake out warmer things - dark greens, deep rusts and blackwatch plaids. Might as well air out the sweaters, scarves and mittens, for brisk winds will soon enough turn into chilly ones.

Before this ninth month is over, we'll dig out the flowers from the window boxes, and refill them with pine branches again.

Regretfully, we'll make one last stop at the Farmer's Market. Time for gardeners everywhere to harvest the last of their produce and turn over the soil.

But there's a feeling of anticipation, too, in September. It's a time for new beginnings, even more so than in January. Many young people pack up and leave for college while others of our June graduates venture into new careers. All of us experience a mood of looking ahead, and each person has to find his or her unique direction.

For the senior citizen, there can be intense feelings associated with these transition times of life. Identity and purpose are the major shaping forces as we move on. These factors influence the way we act and the manner in which we relate to other people. Times of transition can help us to re-establish our thinking.

Here are “Seven September Suggestions for Senior Citizens” - simple little ideas, given just as “for instance.” They can be used as a springboard to make for cheerier days. It's a known fact that small efforts and gestures can provide a needed life - for ourselves and perhaps for others, too.

€ First, work smarter, not harder. When you feel overwhelmed, take a break from whatever is causing you pressure and attend to some task that brings instant gratification. You might organize your desk top or a drawer or two. Then go back with new energy to bigger tasks.

€ Second, compile your own quotation book. Every time you read or think something you want to remember, enter it in your book.

€ Third, brush up on the constellations and go star gazing. When the moon is full, dine by the window.

€ Fourth, send a fan letter through the mail to your spouse, child or close friend. It will come as a surprise and may make their day.

€ Fifth, don't throw out catalogs and magazines. Offer them to a friend, nursing home or hospital.

€ Sixth, read poetry before falling asleep at night. Your last thoughts should be expanding, full of hope and beauty.

€ Seventh, think of just one productive thing that you will do tomorrow. Then be sure to carry it out next day. (Or at least by Friday.)

October is a good month, too, still part of the vibrant season.

Autumn, this crisp and colorful time of year, has inspired many a poet, including William Herbert Carruth who wrote:

A haze on the far horizon

The infinite, tender sky.

The ripe, rich tint of the corn fields

And the wild geese sailing high.

And that's just one beautiful thought to enjoy in these, our “super years.”

Nelson lives and writes in Auburn