If August felt like the warm-up act, September is the main event.
Down here in Alabama, we like to pretend fall is in the air—lighting cinnamon candles while the thermometer reads 92°, sipping pumpkin coffee in shorts, and convincing ourselves a crisp breeze is just around the corner.
But let’s be honest—fall isn’t just a temperature shift. It’s a mindset shift.
We lean back into routines. We cheer on our teams. We check the calendar and start thinking, “If we’re gonna do it this year, we better get to it.” And that’s exactly the spirit that runs through this issue of Boom!
At the heart of it is our cover story on Tommy Dismukes, a man who defines what it means to age with grace, gratitude, and grit. After more than 30 years of walking alongside families at Huntingdon College, he’s stepping into a new season with humility, humor, and a deep trust in God’s plan—even when it’s hard. His life story is full of loss and love, service and second chances, and it reminds us that “aging well” isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, being kind, and staying curious.
That same spirit shows up in our Grumpy but Grateful column, where we poke fun at the heat, the high blood pressure of SEC football, and the sacredness of buffalo chicken dip—all while celebrating the joy of gathering with people we love. Because let’s face it: this time of year may test our thermostats, but it also strengthens our sense of connection.
If Tommy’s story inspires you to reflect, then “From Bucket List to Booked” might just push you to act. September is the perfect time to stop saying “someday” and start putting actual dates on the calendar. That European river cruise you’ve been dreaming of? That art class you keep meaning to sign up for? That trip to see the leaves change in New England? Don’t wait. Make the plan. The joy begins the moment you commit.
And if you’re looking for a little local adventure in the meantime, Nick Thomas brings us another gem with his hiking column—this time to Georgia’s stunning Providence Canyon. It’s proof that sometimes, awe-inspiring experiences are just a short drive away.
So here’s to September—the season of subtle changes and bold decisions. A season for showing up. For booking the trip. For eating the deviled eggs and yelling at the TV. For remembering that our best days aren’t behind us—they’re still waiting to be lived.