This is not your typical Labor Day.
For one thing it's late. In many communities, the kids are already back in school. And this year, a dry summer seems to have many trees changing their colors and shedding their leaves at a faster pace than normal.
Then, just as many were starting to anticipate the last long weekend at the beach or lake, Hurricane Earl reared its ugly head, causing them to put off their plans at least until the storm passed out to sea.
And then there's the fact that on the day we are supposed to honor the working man and woman, too many throughout the country find themselves without employment. Were it not for the safety-net programs constructed during the New Deal and post-World War II era, this would no doubt feel more like the Great Depression II than the gentler-sounding Great Recession.
Though hotter and dryer than normal, it's been a great summer here in New England. No matter which week one chose for vacation, the weather was perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Ahead lies the region's signature season — fall.
So enjoy the day if you're lucky enough to have it off. It's that rare time of year when you can go to the beach during the day and watch a football game at night.
