There's something exhilarating about the words. Yes, summer has been fun--but messy. Now our darling children are going to spend more time focused on learning and leave us more time to get our homes organized and clean.

Predictable schedules replace the laid-back spontaneity of summer, making planning ahead a little easier. It is not too early to begin planning for the holiday season. Don't leave all your deep cleaning chores until then. Get them done now so you can enjoy the holidays with less stress. Windows, ceiling fans, baseboards, blinds, cabinet fronts, are all ready to have their summer dust, fingerprints, and cobwebs removed, making your house the welcoming place you love to come home to.