What a busy time of the year. It's also time to savor, sip and socialize. I hope everyone is having a wonderful December. I am so grateful for my many blessings.

Here is a short list of to-do's to get ready for the coming weather. Being prepared = less stress.

disconnect hoses from exterior hose bibs
winterize sprinkler system
put ice scrapers in all of your vehicles
buy a bag or two of ice/snow melt to have on hand
bring snow shovels to the garage, if they aren't already there
pull out winter mittens, gloves and hats, so they are readily accessible
throw out the expired and purchase some new hot chocolate mix and marshmallows
if you're traveling this winter, ask a neighbor in advance to drive in and out of your driveway when it snows so that it appears that cars have gone in and out of the house/garage (snow tracks). No snow tracks is a dead give away that the house is vacant. Better yet, ask a neighborhood kid to shovel the driveway while you are away
if you intend on using your wood burning fireplace, perhaps it's time to have it cleaned and/or inspected. Safety first.
drafty doors and window? New weather stripping might be in order
like to bake in the wintertime? Stock up on flour, sugar and chocolate chips. Great fun with the kids on a cold snow day
drink wine, eat good food, play games and have fun, too!