THINK B.A.R.E.

Stone: Sapphire

Flower: Aster, Morning Glory, Forget-Me-NotS (all three represent love)

Zodiac Sign: Virgo*, Libra

Virtues: Mental agility, analytical skills, healing powers, attention to details

* I'm a Virgo

September is my birthday month! And in the NorthEast part of the US, it is a beautiful time of year! In appreciation of such a spectacular month in which to be born I decided to write all the things I love about these 30 days!

Gorgeous weather! Early to mid September offers perfect beach weather. The sun is hot, the skies are gorgeous, and the humidity is often very low --- at least in the Northeast and mid Atlantic areas of the U.S.

Gorgeous Skies! They are simply majestic during this month, displaying the prettiest blues and the fluffiest white clouds.

A great time for vacation. Most people take time off during the summer and other peak times. But taking vacation in September offers less crowds, quieter resorts, discounted rates, and a more relaxing yet fun sojourn!

New beginnings and a time to start fresh. Despite spring being associated with new beginnings due to the birth of animals and blooming flowers, September is a time of transition. In this month we move from summer to fall. With many things starting again or resuming a normal schedule, it's also a great time to start new and fresh. I like the idea of taking a class, starting a work-out program, making a positive lifestyle change, re-decorating my home (just with little changes) and pursuing a hobby. Let these beautiful days inspire you!!!

Fashion: On the East Coast, especially as you head North, the latter part of the month as well as evenings in the beginning of the month, offer cooler weather. This gives us the chance to dress up more, wear more luxurious materials and show the beauty of textures and textiles. It's a time for elegant layers and longer pants. Keep your summer shirts and shorts handy, as there are still warm days but you can start to pull out your fall clothing and purchase some new items for a more complete and updated wardrobe!

Farmers' Markets: Most farmers' markets run from June to November. But in September, it's a great time to buy pumpkin, squash, zucchini, potatoes and lots of herbs including -- lavendar and rosemary -- to make delectable hearty soups.

A time for Romance: With beautiful days and cooler evenings, and an eye on the colder months to come -- it's the perfect time to go on dates! What better month to hold hands and take a stroll. To go to dinner when you can sit outside without sweltering from the heat or freezing from the cold. There are markets and festivals to enjoy together. If you are single, now is the time to find that perfect someone. It's a time when most people are back from vacation. It's a time when people are out and about enjoying the September air. Find that someone with whom to hold hands, hug tightly and to snuggle through the winter months. If you are in a relationship, take this month to increase the romance in your life, strengthen your relationship with your spouse. Spend time together outdoors before the cold sets in.

A Great Time to Hike: Without the mugginess of summer or the frozen grounds of winter, September is one of the best months to hike. As the month progresses you will start to see foliage turning colors creating a panorama of colorful hues.

Whatever you do, don't rush the month. Don't rush into mid fall rituals. Don't let marketers push you into a sense of urgency for the the holidays. September has a unique and distinct feel. It's a time to pay homage to summer (soak in those last glorious beach days), then bid au revoir to this season and welcome Autumn. Make sure you are mentally present for September. Be mindful of its glory. It's the ninth month of the year. It deserves it's place. And you deserve its beauty!

To all those who share my September birthday, especially my fellow Virgos, in particular my niece, as well as my Dad who is a Libra, Happy Birthday month to Us! 💕