Around mid-August, I notice that the crickets chirping at night are louder and more numerous. To me, this is the sign that autumn is on the way. I am looking forward to the crisp evenings and cooler days ahead. The really ambitious deciduous trees are just beginning to fade, showing a hint of red or yellow along the I-91 corridor, while the conifers remain steadfast in their dark green. New England is the place to be at this time of year!