October's to-do list

6. Get up to date on your appointments
Busy schedules mean it's tough to find the time to stay on top of appointments. This month, make appointments with your doctor, dentist, optometrist -- it's time to make those visits you've been delaying. Checking those checkups off your list feels like a weight lifting off your shoulders.

7. Make preserves
Some of our favourite fruits are out of season in the autumn, but that doesn't mean you have to go without. Stock your pantry with homemade preserves and jams that you can enjoy throughout the long winter months ahead.

8. Have an at-home movie marathon
Hit the video store and rent a handful of your favourite flicks. Invite friends over and enjoy a cosy evening indoors on a cool night. (Psst…don't forget the snacks!)

9. Clean up the garden
October doesn't mean that gardening season is completely over. There are still things you can (and should) do. For example, October is an important time of year for fertilizing your lawn, to give it the stamina it needs to survive the harsh winter. The cooler weather also means it's the ideal time to plant cool-season vegetables (beets, carrots, collards, lettuce) and annual flowers that thrive in cooler temperatures (petunias, pansies and calendula).

10. Give in to your inner child
October wraps up with Halloween, and it's the perfect time to let your inner child loose and have a little fun. Spook up your house for Halloween with creepy decorations or wear a scary costume (not too scary!) and have fun with the little ones who come trick-or-treating.

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