Chaos to Calm: Preparing for fall: A season of beauty and organization

As the first hints of autumn creep into the air, we’re reminded why Fall is the crown jewel of the seasons. The leaves are transforming into a vibrant mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows, and the sunsets seem to stretch out, as if insisting we pause and soak in their splendor. There’s something magical about those crisp mornings, cozy evenings, and the sun-kissed afternoons in between that make Fall a personal favorite.

But beyond the pumpkin spice and picturesque landscapes, Fall is also a time of preparation. Whether you’re sending kids back to school, settling into an empty nest, or simply gearing up for the colder months, there’s plenty to do to get ready.

Sure, there’s the usual yard work – raking leaves, harvesting the last of the summer veggies –but let’s step inside for a moment. Here’s a room-by-room checklist to help you tackle your home before winter sets in:

The Mudroom (or wherever your shoes and coats live): This is where the chaos of the outside world meets the sanctuary of your home. Start by taking inventory of your gear – shoes, coats, snow pants, gloves, hats, boots. Do they fit? Are they in good condition? Anything with holes or beyond repair can be tossed. Items that no longer fit can be donated or saved for the spring rummage sale.

Kitchen & Pantry: Clean off those counters and sort through the paper piles that have somehow accumulated (again). Make a grocery list that covers all the basics and then some. Trust me, having a stocked pantry before school starts will make you feel like a superhero.

Bathrooms: Give them a good scrub, then take stock of what’s running low. Your kids might not always tell you when they’re down to their last squeeze of toothpaste. So, add those essentials to your grocery list now and avoid the last-minute dash later.

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to dive deeper into decluttering and organizing, I’ve got just the thing. Starting in September, I’m offering a six-week course where we’ll tackle the kitchen, pantry, and bathrooms together. By the time we’re done, you’ll be able to proudly declare that your ducks are not only in a row but marching to your very own drumbeat. Limited spots available on my website, calmourchaos.com/product-page/the-home-flow-3 

So, as you sip that pumpkin spice latte and take in the beauty of Fall, remember that a little prep now will make the season even sweeter.