Getting ready for school and catching that last chance for a summer break, makes August another busy month. If you have a vegetable garden, most of your plants will start producing most heavily.

August is still a popular month for summer vacations, but if you´ve already had yours, now is the time to get ready for school, fall, and the holidays at the end of the year.

• Make blackberry freezer jam.
• If you like to make Christmas gifts you already know August is getting a late start for some projects. Still, no time like the present.
• Check windows and doors to make sure locks work properly and that they are in good condition. Clean tracks and lubricate hinges. Repair or replace any cracked windows.
• Perform garage door maintenance.
• Repair minor brick and mortar cracks. Call a professional if necessary, expecially concerning foundations.
• Think you need more attic insulation? Add it now.
• If you haven´t cleaned gutters for awhile, check them now. You can replace damaged or leaking gutters now, or add leaf guards that will allow leaves to slide off. Now there´s a thought! No more painstaking gutter cleaning!