Fall is my very favorite season, but it is not without its chores.  Here are some things you need to take care of in the next few weeks:

• Make an appointment to have your furnace cleaned and inspected. If you have and use your fireplace, have the chimney cleaned.
• Schedule at least two consecutive days to do a serious clean of your house.  You want your house to be clean and organized before you close up the windows.  The cleaner and less cluttered your house is now, the easier it will be to get it ready for the holidays.
• If necessary, switch out screens for storm windows.
• Clean and store your lawn furniture and other summer equipment.
• Bring your fall clothes (including coats) out of storage. Put away summer things.
• If you have an exercise routine based on being outside, plan the accommodations you'll need to make when the weather doesn't permit outdoor exercise.
• Gather things for an autumn activity basket — books and magazines to read,puzzle books, needle crafts, etc.