There’s a quiet knock at the door. Not loud, not urgent—just a gentle reminder. You open it, and there stands September, smiling softly, holding nothing but a breeze and a memory.

My friend Tabatha once said, “September is like an old friend coming to visit us.” I’ve been thinking about that sentence all week. And the more I sit with it, the more I realize how true it is.

September doesn’t burst in like July or dance in like May. It doesn’t sparkle like December or bloom like April. No, September arrives like someone you’ve known forever—steady, familiar, full of stories. It brings no pressure to impress, no demand to hustle. It simply shows up and says, “I’m here again. Let’s catch up.”

The Return of Rituals

With September comes the slow return of rhythm. The sound of school buses. The smell of sharpened pencils. The clinking of lunchboxes and coffee cups. The air, still touched by summer, begins to carry the golden hush of early fall.

We pack away beach towels and pull out sweaters. The days may still be warm, but the evenings remind us that time is moving forward. There’s comfort in that. After all the wildness of summer, September invites us to sit down again—to breathe, to reflect, to begin.

It’s the month that resets the tempo of life—not abruptly, but gently. And perhaps that’s why it feels so much like an old friend. Because it doesn’t demand anything from us. It simply arrives, just when we need it most.

A Familiar Conversation

I like to imagine that if September were a person, it would sit across from me at the kitchen table. We’d sip warm drinks, wrapped in the scent of cinnamon and wood smoke. And we wouldn’t rush to talk. We’d sit in silence for a bit, just being.

Then, like old friends do, we’d start remembering things:

“Do you remember that walk through the woods when the leaves fell like confetti?”

“I do. And you cried when Vico went to school for the first time, didn’t you?”

“I did. But I also smiled.”

That’s what September does. It reminds us of the bittersweet—the endings that hold beginnings, the changes that shape us. It’s the month that hugs you without needing words.

Lessons in Transition

There’s so much beauty in the in-between. September teaches us that. It’s not fully summer, not yet fall. It stands in the doorway of seasons, unafraid of the in-between.

And maybe that’s something we can learn from it.

We don’t always need to be one thing or another. We can be changing. We can be figuring things out. We can be in the middle of something and still be whole.

September tells us it’s okay to slow down. To walk instead of run. To write instead of post. To notice instead of scroll.

And most importantly—it reminds us that we’re not alone in this change.

A Month for Remembering

Some people say January is the month of beginnings. But I think September holds a quiet kind of magic. It’s a different kind of beginning—the one that doesn’t shout, but whispers. It reminds you of who you are, who you’ve been, and who you might still become.

For parents, it may mean the house is a little quieter again. For children, it’s the thrill of new notebooks and old friends. For all of us, it’s a second chance to return to ourselves after a season of being stretched and scattered.

September walks with us through that return.

Thank You, Tabatha

So today, I want to thank my friend Tabatha Richardson for her beautiful words. One sentence—and suddenly, I saw the entire month in a new light. Not as a calendar box or a shift in weather, but as a companion.

A friend who comes back each year to remind us:

We are allowed to change.
We are allowed to rest.
We are allowed to begin again.

So come in, September. The kettle’s on. The window’s open. I’ve missed you.

GK

65 thoughts on “An Old Friend Named September

    1. Hello,
      Wow… I don’t even know what to say. Your words truly moved me.
      The thought that you paused the Eagles game just to read part of my blog — and that he listened! — means more than I can express.
      Thank you for seeing something special in my writing and for sharing it in such a beautiful, personal way. This kind of connection is exactly why I keep writing. You’ve made my day.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

  1. As a former schoolteacher, September was full of beginnings, freshness, darker evenings, and a delightful warm/cool/rainy balance. It’s one of my favorite months– before the holiday chaos starts taking over.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much for sharing this — I love the way you described September through a teacher’s eyes. That mix of beginnings, cooler evenings, and balance is exactly what I hoped to capture in my post. It’s such a special month — calm, reflective, and full of quiet magic before the holiday rush begins. I’m so glad it’s one of your favorites too.
      Have a wonderful Friday.
      GK

      Like

  2. Love this read! September has always been special to me for a couple of reasons: best season Fall and it’s my birthday month. Now, I love it even more after reading this post. Welcome September, she is an old friend of mine 😎❤️❤️❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello friend,
      I love this so much — what a perfect way to welcome September! 🍂 Happy birthday month to you! No wonder it holds a special place in your heart. I’m so glad the post made you love it even more. Here’s to all the cozy moments, meaningful reflections, and birthday joy ahead. September suits you beautifully ❤️🎉
      Have a beautiful Friday.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

  3. I like how you’ve painted September here — not a deadline, not a calendar box, but a guest at the door. That feels right. Life doesn’t always shift in fireworks and fanfare. Sometimes it changes in the quietest ways: the air turning cooler, the pencils sharpening, the evenings drawing in.

    But let’s be honest — September isn’t always just an old friend. Sometimes it’s the mate who tells you the holiday is over, the bills are due, and the alarm clock’s back on duty. It’s the one who hands you the jumper you forgot you’d left in their cupboard last spring and says, “Time to put this on again.”

    Still, that’s the point. September doesn’t sell us a fantasy. It reminds us that transition is part of life. Not endings, not beginnings — just the in-between. And the in-between is where most of us actually live.

    So yes — come in, September. We’ll put the kettle on. But don’t get too comfortable. October’s already eyeing up the chair.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello there,
      Wow… I absolutely loved reading this. You captured something so real and beautifully said — that quiet truth of how life actually changes, not with fireworks but with sharpened pencils and cooler air. And yes, you’re right — September isn’t always the cozy guest. Sometimes it’s the no-nonsense friend who reminds us that life is starting back up, ready or not.

      But I smiled at that jumper line — because it’s true. September hands us the rhythm we’d forgotten, and even if we grumble a bit, deep down we’re grateful for the return.

      Thank you for this thoughtful and wonderfully written reflection. The kettle’s on… and you’re right, October’s already peeking around the corner. 🍂☕🧡
      Have a great Friday.
      GK

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  4. This is lovely, September as a time to remember–there’s a song about that (I’ll try to post it). September is my month because my birthday falls in it…and because I like the cooling temps and wide vista of colors that change in seasons. Praying you and your family are well, and feeling blessed.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello Rene,
      Thank you so much — your words are filled with the same warmth and beauty that September brings. Happy birthday month to you! 🎉 I hope it’s full of color, peace, and meaningful moments. And yes — there is something musical about this time of year, isn’t there? Thank you also for your kind prayers — we’re doing well and feeling grateful. Wishing the same blessings to you and your loved ones. 🍂💛
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello to the Fab Four of Cley! 😊😊😊😊
      I love how you put that — September as the end of summer and the beginning of the cozy times. That’s exactly how it feels… like a soft landing into comfort and calm. Wishing you a wonderful season ahead, full of warmth, tea, and all your favorite autumn things. 🍁🧡
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

  5. What a wonderful way to describe September – “It’s a different kind of beginning—the one that doesn’t shout, but whispers. It reminds you of who you are, who you’ve been, and who you might still become.” And “So come in, September. The kettle’s on. The window’s open. I’ve missed you.” It’s always been a favorite time of year – you’ve just put it all into words. Looking forward to reading more of your writing. ~ Rosie

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much, Rosie — your message truly touched me. I’m honored that those lines resonated with you, especially about September’s gentle beginning. It means a lot to know I could put into words something you’ve always felt. I’m so grateful you’re here, and I look forward to sharing more with you in the cozy days ahead. 🍁☕🧡
      Have a great Friday.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I liked it so much I am highlighting on my own blog with a 5 star rating – look for a ping back to your post shortly. Thank you for liking my post which gave me an opportunity to see your work! ~ Rosie

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Dear Rosie,
        Thank you so much — I’m genuinely touched by your kindness and support. It means the world to me that you not only enjoyed the post but chose to highlight it on your own blog with a 5-star rating. What a beautiful and generous gesture.

        I’m so glad our paths crossed — and I look forward to reading more of your work too. Thank you again for making my day.

        With heartfelt gratitude,
        Georgi

        Liked by 1 person

      3. Hello,
        Thank you so much, Rosie — I’m truly honored you chose An Old Friend Named September as your post of the month. Your support means the world to me, and I’m so grateful for your kindness. 🍂🧡
        Have a great Sunday and a wonderful new week.
        Georgi

        Liked by 1 person

  6. Oh my what a beautiful post. I have always loved September for many reasons but mainly because it’s my birthday month and I always take loads of holiday during this month. But it also signifies the end of summer and bring cooler days and darker evenings. But this blog has made me look at it in a different light – thank you

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much for your lovely words — and happy birthday month to you! 🎉🍂
      I’m really touched that the post helped you see September in a new light. It’s such a special month, isn’t it? Full of endings, beginnings, and the space in between. I hope your holidays this September are full of rest, joy, and meaningful little moments. Thank you for reading!
      Have a wonderful Friday.
      GK

      Like

    1. Hello my dear friend,
      Thank you so much — your words mean a lot to me. October is such a beautiful month too, and I’m honored that this post gave you a new perspective on September. That’s the greatest gift a writer can receive — knowing something they wrote helped someone see differently. I truly appreciate your kindness. 🍂🧡
      Have a wonderful weekend.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      I love that! 🍂 Yes — September is definitely the beginning of harvest season, and I’m so glad this series is helping you ease into fall. Now all we need is that pumpkin spice latte in hand and a cozy sweater nearby! Thank you for walking through the seasons with me, friend. ☕🎃🧡
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

  7. Such great writing! Your words Made me think differently about September. As a summer-lover, I get sad when it’s “over” but your writing made me see the beauty in September. Thank you!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much — that really means a lot to me. I completely understand the sadness when summer fades, especially if you love the warmth and freedom it brings. But I’m so glad the post helped you see September in a new light — not as an ending, but as something quietly beautiful. Wishing you a soft and hopeful transition into the new season 🍂💛.
      Have a wonderful new week.
      GK

      Liked by 2 people

  8. Sometimes September reminds me of that old song by Neil Diamond, September Morning. It has personal meaning in my life. I love how we get fewer hot days, and there is just a little gentle breeze in September. This was so heartfelt, and definitely uplifting! Thank your for this post.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much — I truly appreciate your kind words. September Morn is such a nostalgic and tender song, and now I’ll forever associate it with this post too. There’s something so special about that gentle breeze and the softer light of September… it carries both memories and hope. I’m really touched that the post felt uplifting to you. Wishing you a peaceful and meaningful season ahead. 🍃💛
      Have a wonderful new week.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hello,
        Thank you so much — your words brought a smile to my day. I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying the season so far. Wishing you many cozy, golden, and meaningful moments this September and beyond. 🍂✨
        GK

        Liked by 1 person

  9. Wow. I can’t love this enough. I’m sitting in front of my open door with the fall breeze gently passing and you have summed up everything I am feeling so eloquently. Thank you for this great read!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Wow — your message truly touched me. I can just picture that open door and the gentle fall breeze, and it means so much to know the post resonated with what you were feeling in that exact moment. Thank you for reading and for sharing this beautiful snapshot of your September. 🍂🧡
      Have a beautiful day.
      GK

      Like

  10. I am enthralled with this essay. September and early October are my favourite times of the year. The sun is bright, the air crisp, even when warm, and cozy evening – almost time for the fireplace. Here on the east coast of Canada, the leaves are beginning to change colour n response to the changing of the season. Your description of September being an old friend is perfect, as is thinking of it as the real beginning of the next year. Thank you for this!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much — your words truly warmed my heart. I can picture those bright, crisp days and cozy evenings on the east coast of Canada… what a beautiful place to welcome September. I’m so glad the post resonated with you — especially the idea of September as both an old friend and a quiet new beginning. Wishing you a season full of light, reflection, and peaceful moments by the fire. 🍁🧡
      Have a great day and a wonderful new week.
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much — I’m really glad it resonated with you! There’s something so refreshing about September, isn’t there? Like a soft reset. And I completely agree — autumn holds a special kind of magic. 🍂✨ Wishing you a beautiful season ahead!
      GK

      Like

    1. Thank you — I’m so glad that little detail stirred something meaningful for you. Isn’t it amazing how the smell of sharpened pencils can take us back in an instant? September carries so many quiet echoes of childhood and simpler days. I’m truly touched that the post brought back those recollections for you. 🍁✏️
      GK

      Like

  11. Hello Georgi, what a lovely piece of writing. Okay, it’s now the end of September but your sentiments still apply. I’m reminded of a poem by Robert Frost, which I will have to look up (my memory!!!) If I find it I’ll add it in another comment.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello and thank you so much — I’m really glad the piece still resonates, even as September gently slips away. I’d love to see the Robert Frost poem if it comes to mind — his words always add such depth to the seasons. Thank you for reading and for taking the time to share your thoughts. 🍂📖✨
      GK

      Liked by 1 person

  12. I will echo everyone else’s sediments here who had the pleasure of reading this well written piece putting the feeling in every word. In brought all the senses alive that like you I would know my old friend September at the door if if you hadn’t mentioned her name beckoning her to come in

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hello,
      Thank you so much — your words truly touched me. I love how you described September coming alive through the senses, even without naming her. That’s exactly what I hoped the piece would do — to let readers feel September as much as see her. I’m so grateful you shared this thoughtful reflection. 🍂✨
      Have a beautiful new week.
      GK

      Like

  13. I found this article very helpful. Your clear and fluent presentation of the topic kept me from getting bored. There’s superficial information available online about many topics people research these days, but your article was detailed and comprehensive.

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