The leaves are turning, the nights are cooler and, while the days are getting shorter, the 'to do' list doesn't seem to be. Here's a list of things to help you and your house make the transition from the heat of summer to the cooler days of autumn.

Indoors

• Set thermostats and automatic sprinklers for winter.
• Store summer bedding and towels. Before storing, check condition. Make rags out of damaged sheets and towels.
• Get out winter clothing and bedding. Swap cotton summer sheets for flannel sheets and duvet covers.
• Store summer clothing. Check condition to cull worn items for donation or tossing.
• Unless you have enough kids to warrant hand-me-downs, send kids´ clothes to donation center, church, or a homeless shelter. Clean before storing.
• Turn mattresses.
• Do a big cleaning now while the weather is still relatively warm. You´ll be able to clear out the dust and dirt that got tracked in during the summer.
• Have carpets cleaned.
• Schedule appointment to have air conditioner serviced.
• Check gauges on home fire extinguishers to ensure a full charge. Replace if necessary.
• Switch to Standard Time. Check smoke detector and replace batteries if needed.

Outdoors

• Keep leaves raked to prevent smothering new grass.
• Plant early spring bulbs and fertilize established bulb beds, including garlic.
• Plant herb baskets and bulbs for forcing if you want to give them as gifts.
• Clean yard. Clear debris from perimeter of house and outbuildings. Trim any trees or shrubs that touch the house.
• At the end of the month, check system and fix leaks, then drain and turn off lawn sprinkler system.
• Detach hoses in case of freezing temperatures.
• Remove all paints, caulks and liquid materials from garage or garden sheds.
• Take window screens out. Wash and store. Repair or replace now. Label so you can put them up quickly next spring.
• Wash windows before installing storm windows.
• Cover woodpile. Split some kindling and store for ready supply.
• Harvest seeds for next year´s garden.
• Move tender perennials into the house, garage, or greenhouse.