The sun has set on summer, leaving the glass empty with promise of another intoxicating locals’ fall refill after the rain.

The glass, unfilled, leaves plenty of room for a rainbow-hued reflection of all that’s right down by the river in that spot that never changes by Barnacle Bill’s in Rumson. There, the view and time-honored locals’ toast to traditions stays the same, no matter which generation.

Whether or not its glow is masked by clouds, the sun is always extending its rays in a big, open hug —always a welcomed homecoming. It sets contentedly in the same spot, a reminder that it never leaves us, always warms us, shines on us, gives us light to look toward. Its arms reach to hold us until we can see it again.

Down by the river there’s no darkness, no cold. The glass is always full of light in a toast to some things that never change — those that keep us anchored, satiated.

The fall sun is making its return soon, after another good soaking. Here’s the weather outlook for the Rumson-Fair Haven area through the weekend from the National Weather Service …

— Photos/Elaine Van Develde exclusively for R-FH Retro