School has started and families are starting to get into that after-school groove, but it's hard to give up those city summer excursions with the kiddos. At least that's what I'm experiencing right now, even though my kiddo is happy to be lugging a heavy backpack around all day. (What he sees in this school business, I'll never know.)

But rejoice, dear Tucson families, I've stumbled on something cool to do before that rush, rush, rush about town starts and we won't be able to take a deep breath until Thanksgiving: Twilight Thursdays at Tucson Botanical Gardens. Think of it as your end of summer celebration because you and the kids can boogie down in the middle of the gardens with Tucson's Cordials and take in some art by Tucson artist C.J. Shane. Can't think of anything better.

Tonight, Thursday, Aug. 15, from 5 to 8 p.m., adults $9, children $5, and there's a cash bar, food and ice cream. For members adults $5 and children $3. Next month (third Thursday) is music by Mustang Corners and an art show by 85712, a group show by artists living and working in this Tucson zip code.