Max, left, Shawna Martin, center, and Whitney Jalbert sit Tuesday in the only patch of shade on the sidewalk near the 48 Hampshire St. apartments in Auburn. Martin, whose birthday is in September, finds joy in the approaching season. “The leaves changing color relaxes me,” she said. All three women agree that the summer has been long and hot. “It’s easier to get through the heat with others,” Jalbert adds. “The shade helps a lot. I’m grateful for the tree we have.” Andree Kehn/Sun Journal