Today is the first day of autumn!  Summer is officially over.

Technically, today is the equinox.  Day and night are equal in length.  Beginning tomorrow, nights will grow longer than the days until the night reaches its greatest length at the winter solstice.

When night draws closer, we can do some things to make our homes safer, warmer, and more welcoming:

• Put an interior or exterior light on a timer so that ou come home to light each day.  If you don't have a timer (they aren't very expensive), make sure you turn a light on before you leave the house.
• If you have a fireplace, light a fire on a chilly autumn evening and bask in the light and warmth.
• If you don't have a fireplace (or it's not cold enough yet), light some candles to add soft light.
• Consider investing in a few soft colorful throws to keep you cozy while sitting on the couch reading, watching tv, or reading your favorite Elf blog.

Timers and throws will be an expense, but they can help you save money too.  A timer will keep you from having to leave a light on all day and a throw will allow you to set the thermostat a few degrees lower, saving heating fuel.  Comfy and economical!