Great weather

While the rain Sunday might may have changed a few outdoor plans, by and large the weather lately has been incredible. The heat and humidity we've come to expect from a summer in Southeast Missouri has given way to more fall-like temperatures. With the changing of seasons, now is the time to enjoy some outdoor activities.

The downtown river walk is a great place to spend time, and after walking the trail and enjoying the artwork on the flood wall there are excellent restaurants and shops to patronize.

Fall also means it's football season, and every Friday night there are a host of high school games in the area. Saturday at 6 p.m. the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks will face off against Eastern Illinois at Houck Stadium as part of the university's Family Weekend festivities.

Organized activities are not the only way to spend a gorgeous fall day. The foliage is beginning to turn from green to yellow, orange and red. With the early forecast projecting a weekend of sunshine and high temperatures in the 60s and 70s, consider an afternoon just enjoying nature -- maybe even a picnic lunch.

Winter's bluster will be here before you know it and we'll be seeking indoor activities. So enjoy this spectacular time of the year in the great outdoors.