1. The first cases of Sam Adams Octoberfest found their way into my refrigerator, via the local Fry’s. Best-tasting beer on earth.

2. The first ice glaze up on Mt. Washington.

3. The first frost in the Northeast.

4. I’m ordering my books to read during this year’s vacation.

5. Happy birthday, Mom!

6. E-mails from the Arizona Department of Transportation telling us it’s time for annual inspection. Another $500 to the state.

7. Saw the first Christmas Club commercial on TV the other day. I didn’t even know they still did Christmas clubs anymore…

8. Serena Williams and Roger Federer will win the U.S. Open.

9. The Old Farmer’s Almanac winter projections are out.

10. The pennant contenders are bulking up for the playoff run.

11. The President introduces politics into the start of another school year. Is there anything this guy will not use as an excuse for more face time?