To-Do List
1. Make a weatherization appointment
We all know we should have done it in August, but it’s really time. Even if you aren’t getting a full retrofit (or can’t because you rent), wrap up the hot-water heater with an insulating blanket, get plastic out for the windows, and service your furnace and filters so they’re running efficiently. Also, the U.S. Department of Energy claims that drafts beneath doors can be responsible for up to 30% of your energy use in the winter. Use this as motivation to dust off your sewing machine and make your own simple draft stoppers.
2. Get local craft fairs on your calendar
Check the event calendar on Grid’s website for fairs around town and check our gift guide that will also provide lots of inspiration for experiential gifts like theater tickets and classes.
3. Make your holiday shopping list
Shop local! There’s nothing quite as special as a personalized, handcrafted present. For gifts like books, order now from a local store so you don’t need the fuel intensive (or panic inducing) “overnight” option from national retailers.
4. Prepare your garden for winter
Dig up and pot herbs like basil that will last throughout the winter on a sunny window indoors. Utilize the newly available space outside to get a head start on spring-blooming flower bulbs like tulips or plant some garlic and shallots for next summer’s harvest. Compost your leaves and your withered tomato plants, but don’t throw in the weeds!
5. Check the air pressure in your tires
The cool weather naturally contracts air molecules, which lowers the PSI of your ties. This could potentially affect your fuel efficiency and traction. Be sure to check and fill your tire pressure at night, as the temperature drop in the evening could cause the pressure to read differently.
6. Make your volunteer plan
Remember that the holidays are the best time to give rather than receive. Volunteer at local food pantries, soup kitchens or other organizations to make someone’s holiday.
7. Order your turkey
Order your free-range turkeys for Thanksgiving from a local farm. If you’re throwing a big bash that will need reinforcements, book your caterer now.
8. Break out the moisturizers
Dry weather is coming, don’t let dry skin come too! Lots of local shops will offer natural and handmade products to protect you throughout the winter.
9. Locate the snow shovel, and get your ice melt
That way you aren’t stuck the day of the storm. Make sure you buy pet-friendly and environmentally-friendly products that won’t pollute the river or harm your four-legged roommates.
10. Get your winter clothes out of storage
Find a green dry cleaner for anything that requires a little attention. Don’t forget that you can have your boots worked on by a cobbler to get new heels and weatherproofing so you don’t need to buy new ones.
