Get 'er done...

If there is anything you need to get done outside of your house or in the garage or even on the car, do it now. The weather is very pleasant and you can do much without breaking a sweat. But, not for long, before you know it, it will be cold and you are going to wish you had gotten all those little things done.

Look around and you will find something to do. I.E. replace missing caulk around doors and windows, replace weatherstrip wherever needed, paint any area that needs it and put away all the summer items such as your picnic table, umbrella, chairs and other things you will not need for the winter. If and when we have nice days in the months of October and November, you can always bring out a folding chair or two. Give your outdoor grill a good cleaning even though this doesn't mean you can't cook outside in the cold weather, we always do.

Make sure the car is ready for the cold. If you don't know how, or just don't want to get dirty, then stop in to your oil change store and have the full service performed. This should include changing the oil and oil filter, topping off all fluids and changing the air filter. The wipers should also be checked. Keep in mind that having these replaced by them will cost a little more than if you purchased the items yourself at Walmart, but you are paying for the convenience of not getting your hands dirty. many of these places will also look at all your lights and make sure they are all working as required. Even though this full service is a little expensive, you will probably not spend over $100 including filters and wiper blades. Another option is to go to your local auto parts store and buy your air filter and wiper blades from them and most of them will install them for free. (Don't forget to tip a couple of dollars). This might sound like too much money for just a couple of things, but believe me it will save you plenty of pain and suffering in the middle of winter. You might also consider replacing your battery if it is over the months of reccommended use. you can figure this out by looking ant the top of the battery and it will say a number from 24 to 72 months. this number subtracted by the number of months you have had this battery or this vehicle will tell you how many months are left on this battery. If you find that you only have 6 months or less of life on this battery, I would strongly consider replacing it. This you can also purchase at an auto parts store or at a large department store. Make sure they have free installation. Oh, before I forget, at the oil change store have them rotate your tires and check the air pressure on all tires including the spare. At this time of the year some muffler shops have a sale going on where they change the oil and oil filter, inspect your brakes and rotate your tires for under $50. Keep in mind that many of these places suggest other work which may not be necessary, just say no thanks.

These are just a few ideas to keep you happy in those cold Chicago days...