Parked on a bench in front of the water last night, my mp3 player filling the immediate area with Satchmo singing "What A Wonderful World," I couldn't help but think that, if I could only package the vibe of that moment and sell it for a dollar or two, all my worries about money would be gone.

This is an awesome time of year to ride down to Teddy Roosevelt Park in Oyster Bay, especially after 5pm. The air is slightly crisp, the water is still and silent, and the whistling of the autumn crickets is hypnotizing.

From Syosset, I've used White Oak Tree Lane, Split Rock Road, and Berry Hill Road. These days, my preferred route is Muttontown Road to 106 into Pine Hollow Road and on to the beach. It's probably the most direct, although there's a little more traffic noise than I prefer.

Arriving in downtown Oyster Bay after 5pm, the choices for a picnic dinner are limited, so bring your own or be sure to stop along Pine Hollow Road. In town, there's a Subway on South Street that stays open late, but all the delis shut down when the Town of Oyster Bay offices close. At the beach itself, you'll find a soda machine and an ice cream truck.

Like summer, this season goes by really fast, so if you're thinking of cycling out to Oyster Bay, do it soon!