Easing into Autumn
While there are still several weeks of summer left, it is hard not to romanticize the cozy season of autumn right around the corner. Nesting in cooler weather isn’t just trendy, it’s something we naturally do to prepare for shorter days and cooler evenings! When you think of your ideal cozy nest for the season, how much clutter do you include in your minds eye? I am guessing it leans towards zero.
Now is the perfect time to declutter and set up organization systems to keep your space functional and cozy. While it may be a bit too early to bring in all of the summer gear (we still have weather in the 70s and 80s in September and October), there are some categories that can use tackling now.
The Pile: During the busy summer activities, it is normal for areas of the home to be neglected as far as organization systems. First and foremost, per usual, be kind to yourself because you’re doing great. Tackle the pile, whether it is shoes that didn’t end up in the right space, summer toys you realized your child isn’t quite ready for this year, or the sleepaway camp bag you didn’t fully unpack yet.
The Pantry: Sometimes your summer menu can differ from the usual, from always having s’more supplies to many beach pizza nights, your pantry may need a refresh and restock. I prefer to meal plan weekly and make sure I have all of the ingredients I will need for planned dinners, on-the-go snacks, breakfast and lunch, plus the fall recipes I am dreaming of trying. Take an hour to inventory the pantry, check all expiration dates, and try to plan out your meals for the next week.
The Closet: Don’t put away those linen pants! They still have plenty of time to be worn before winter, but try doing a closet audit for your cooler weather wardrobe. Do the sweaters and jackets still fit? How many hats and mittens did you wear last year versus how many you have on hand? Planning ahead will save you from frantically shopping for new clothes on the first day it stays below 50.
As always, I am here if you are feeling stuck! I’m happy to help between perfecting a gluten free apple crisp and waiting patiently for the only pumpkin in our garden to be ready to pick.
Happy September!
