Summer is winding down and my thoughts are going in the direction of fall.  There is lots of fall decorating stuff popping up in the stores.  Sweaters are looking good, even though the weather has been beautiful and warm.  Most notably at our house the menus are changing.  Our grill ran out of gas a few weeks ago and I don't need to fill it any time soon because my cooking has shifted to braising and roasting. 

So far, I've done a pretty good job of passing on all the decorating stuff.  I did pick up a few little things, but I'm comfortable that I haven't gone overboard.  They were very affordable, I know where they'll be displayed and they'll fit in the exisitng storage.   I'll keep my fingers crossed that I can keep walking past those adorable beaded pumpkins that I so don't need!

With all the fall clothes looking so tempting in the stores it's a great time to go through the clothes closet.  Park a "give away" box somewhere close to your closet.  As you start bringing out fall clothing, review each piece and put it in the box if it doesn't meet expectations for this year.  Do the same as you're putting away summer clothing.  When the box is full haul it out to your car and drop it off the next time you're running errands. 

If you're unsure about what clothing you should keep, ask yourself these questions:

• Does it fit?
• Is it in good repair?
• Is it in style?

Since my food cravings are going the way of roasts and  braises, I've been burrowing into cookbooks and shopping at farmers markets.  It's been the most fun!  Although I have to say if you're not a fan of sweet potatoes, don't roast your carrots.  Seriously.  Just recently I gave my pantry a serious going over to make sure I would have my standard ingredients on hand for fall cooking.  I'm ready.  Are you?

Life with only clothes that fit is bliss.

Tricky Duck Tip:  If you're unsure about your clothes being in style, invite a fashion conscious friend over to help you out.  Make it a party!