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When it changes, some people don’t even think about it. You might give it a second thought as you suck in a breath of hot air as beads of sweat form on your forehead. It’s just another humid day on Marco.

On Monday, it’s officially fall. The autumnal equinox takes place at 11:44 a.m.

There’s no early cold snap, no need to take a sweater at night. Islanders are still swimming and going to the beach. The mosquitoes are still chasing me down the street when I walk my little dog Dill. Who would ever think that fall is in the air?

Parts of the Northeast are waking up to freezing temperatures this morning. Dill and I would both need a sweater. Every time we go to PetSmart, my daughter Samantha wants to buy one. Not yet, I say, it’s too warm.

The sun is setting a little earlier each day. Daylight saving time ends Nov. 2 this year. If you’re thinking that’s not right, last year the date was changed to the first Sunday in November, so that kids have more sunlight time on Halloween. In case you’re wondering, the sun will set at 6:46 p.m. that day. On Nov. 2, the sun will set at 5:44 p.m. One bright note, it will be easier for kids to get up in morning.

So, the trees don’t drop their leaves like they do up north. No chilly mornings. Can’t see your breath as you’re jogging or walking the dog in the morning. You’re still sweating and it’s too early to put up Halloween decorations (Yes, it is too early). What can one do to get in the autumn mood?

My friend Christine has the answer. Candles. Last weekend we went shopping at Coastland Mall. We went to the candle store (you know which one). We spent a half hour in there, just sniffing candles. Who can decide what candle to buy with names like Autumn Wreath, Pumpkin Spice and Boo-Nilla? Her house always smells good with a seasonal candle burning. Don’t feel like driving into Naples for a candle? Pick one up at a local store. The fragrance might be called something else, but it’s definitely instant autumn in a jar.

So now you have a way to trick yourself into thinking that it is fall. Instead of stepping out to take a breathe of cool autumn air, light a candle, wait a while, and take a deep breath. It works, really.

In a few months, we’ll be complaining about the cold weather. Don’t deny it. You’ll bring that cup of hot coffee to your chattering teeth, breathing in the steam, wishing for a hot day just like today. I’ll be wishing for a Dunkin’ donut too.