Soon enough the holidays will be upon us with all the big family meals and baking. Now is a great time to start making room in your pantry and freezer. (Those of you who lost power due to Irene this weekend have solved the problem of the freezer since you'll need to throw almost everything away. Note: Vodka kept in the freezer does not go bad, but if you're afraid that it might be spoiled, let me know and I'll give you an address where you can send it.)

But apart from having to throw out spoiled food, how do you make space in your pantry and freezer?

• For canned goods and other non-perishables, if you aren't planning to use it, donate it to a local food pantry. They always need stock.
• Resist the temptation to buy large quantities of staples. There will be another sale. I promise.
• Try to build meals around things you have in stock with the goal of using them up. I go through my cabinets and put a few things I want to use on the table or counter so I see them constantly. That's a reminder that I need to come up with a menu that uses these items. Bonus points if it uses something from the freezer too.

If you start planning now, by the end of October, you'll be ready to refesh your pantry for the holidays.