

As we step into the autumn season, that means one thing—leaf duty. There’s something wonderfully therapeutic about raking leaves on a crisp morning. The calming rhythm, the gleam of the rake prongs, and the sight of colorful leaves piled high. Did you know leaves can make some top-quality compost? Rake them into a pile, add some kitchen compostables, and mix it well. By spring, you’ll have the sweet-smelling black gold your garden will love.

There’s something about that squeaky gate that grates on the nerves, isn’t there? Let’s fix it. Grab your WD-40 or any lubricating oil, a rag, and a small brush. Clean off any rust on the hinges with that brush, and then generously apply lubricant. Give the gate a couple of swings to work it in. Quiet like a sleeping cat. Don’t you just love easy wins?

Autumn calls for toasty evenings and marshmallow roasts. It’s high time we got that firepit going. Call it upcycling or pure genius, but an old wash basin makes for a fantastic firepit. Add some stones around it, throw in some dry twigs and logs, and presto! You have got yourself a yard centerpiece.

You know what they say, ‘A clean filter is a happy filter’. Okay, maybe only I say that but it’s true. As we prepare for the heating season, it’s time to check and replace those HVAC filters. You’d be surprised at the amount of dust and debris these unsung heroes trap, improving your home’s air quality.

Did you hear about Sally down the street? Started a collective compost heap right in the heart of our neighborhood. Talk about being green! Now we’ve got a spot to dump our kitchen compost and fallen leaves. Plus, it’s a great way to bump into and catch up with the neighbors. Community composting for the win!

Just the other day, I went to grab my rake, but do you think I could find it? No, sir! After almost an hour of searching (and muttering), I found it leaning against my neighbor’s shed, a smug smile on its handle. Respect your tools, folks, and they’ll respect you… usually. As Confucius probably didn’t say, ‘A rake in hand is worth two lost in the shed.’
Editorial Note: All sections are human-edited for accuracy and tone.
"There is always something to make you wonder in the shape of a tree, the trembling of a leaf. - Albert Schweitzer"
— Larry
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“Larry”