When Spring is still in its thawing out stage I think my favorite time of year is September. Summer is ending, but the blow is softened by the availability of many of my favorite things: black mission figs with manchego, scallops on the half shell in ceviche at the raw bar, the hint of Fall in the evening air. Then we have a day like today and I remember dry rose, sleeveless dresses, and an abundance of fresh fruit are also among my favorite things.