Into the woods

Hurry up! There’s still another month to get out of the city and plop yourself down on a sandy beach or a cottage dock. And as the temperature can really drop at night, be sure to pack essentials like hoodies, blankets and rubber boots so you’re warm and dry at beach bonfires and sunsets.

So beg, borrow or crash a friend’s weekend trip if you have to — just do what it takes to make your escape.

I asked aspiring singer/songwriter Julie Alexandra to showcase our version of “country casual.”