A few final tips to help you prepare your home for autumn:

• Schedule a furnace cleaning and inspection. Far better to find problems in October than when you are snowed in.
• If you have a fireplace (and you use it), have your chimney cleaned. Check your stick of firewood and kindling and order more if needed.
• Set out candles in likely locations. I have a TON of candles. One of my hopes is to use up the stash this winter. I like to light a candle as I transition from my work day to my evening. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and relax.
• Drape throws over sofas and chairs. There’s nothing like wrapping yourself is a soft blanket to read a book or watch tv – with a cup of hot cider or cocoa at your side. Bonus: you can turn the heat down and save money!