Even though the calendar says summer is winding down, here in Sonoma County the warm days often stretch well into October. It’s that in-between season—mornings are cool, afternoons are toasty, and evenings call for a light sweater. This is the perfect time to freshen up your home, inside and out, so you can enjoy the last golden days of summer while easing into fall.
Breathe New Life into Outdoor Spaces
Your patio and backyard have probably seen plenty of gatherings, grilling, and lounging over the past few months. Give them a quick refresh: sweep off decks, rinse down furniture, and add a few cozy touches like lanterns or a throw blanket for those cooler evenings. With long sunny afternoons still ahead, you’ll get plenty of use out of these spaces before true fall sets in.
Garden + Harvest Care
Late summer means overflowing tomato plants, ripening apples, and herbs still going strong. Harvest what you can, clear out plants that are spent, and work a little compost into the soil for fall veggies or next year’s garden. Don’t forget to pick fruit before it falls—your trees (and your compost pile) will thank you.
Inside the Home
Even if it’s warm during the day, evenings are getting cooler—perfect for cozying up. Swap out lighter bedding for a layer or two of warmth, set out extra blankets in the living room, and maybe even bring out a few fall-scented candles. Check air filters and make sure windows close snugly so you’ll be ready when the first truly crisp night arrives.
Safety + Seasonal Checks
This is also a good time to double-check smoke detectors, prep fireplaces or chimneys, and give your emergency kit a once-over before winter storms are on the horizon. A few small steps now can make things feel seamless later.
There’s something special about this stretch of the year—the golden light, the mix of warm afternoons and cool nights, the slow shift toward cozier routines. With a little care inside and out, your home will be ready to embrace both the lingering summer sun and the comfort of fall evenings.