My daughter Abby, who is in college, spent most of the summer working independently in Chicago. So, when she returned home to New York for a brief period before resuming classes, I posed an essential question: What do you want to eat while you’re back?
Since her last visit, a new bagel shop in our area has been lighting up the family group chat, so I presumed she’d want to check it out. I also thought she’d probably rush to Joe’s for steamed rice rolls or make a trip to Sal & Carmine’s for her favorite slice of New York pizza. But her response — and I assure you I didn’t bribe her — was, “I want to eat at home.”
What she longed for the most, it turned out, were home-cooked meals, particularly those dishes she relates to summer. Tomato sandwiches. Blueberry pancakes. Grilled salmon salad. Veggie burgers. Oklahoma-style burgers cooked over steamed onions.
Sliced tomato salads topped with feta. The dill-infused potato salad we prepare. Corn on the cob slathered in butter. S’mores.
It goes without saying, completing the Last Gasp Summer Checklist was a task I wholeheartedly supported, and we managed to enjoy many of these meals before sending her off to school earlier this week.
What’s included on your last-gasp summer checklist? What do you still wish to accomplish before Labor Day?
P.S. Coming home dinners and five ideas for corn, tomatoes, or both.
**Key Items for Your End-of-Summer Checklist**
As the splendid days of summer begin to fade and the cool whispers of autumn draw near, it’s an ideal moment to relish the final rays of sunshine and gear up for the seasonal shift. Whether you’re organizing one last beach visit, tidying up your living space, or preparing for school, having a well-rounded end-of-summer checklist can help you maximize this transitional phase. Here’s a guide to key items and tasks to consider as you say goodbye to summer.
### 1. **Wardrobe Shift**
**Light Layers:** As the weather starts to change, it’s smart to keep some light layers handy. Consider cardigans, denim jackets, and lightweight scarves that can be easily added or removed.
**Sandal Maintenance:** Before putting your summer shoes away, give them a good wash. Leather sandals may benefit from a conditioning treatment, while fabric shoes could use a cleaning. This ensures they’re ready for the next season.
**Inventory Assessment:** Evaluate your summer wardrobe. Donate or sell items that you didn’t use, and make note of any necessities you may need for next summer.
### 2. **Home Arrangements**
**Outdoor Furniture:** Clean and store outdoor furniture for protection against the elements. If indoor storage is lacking, invest in durable covers.
**Garden Preparations:** Harvest any leftover vegetables or herbs and think about planting fall crops. Properly clean and store garden tools to prolong their lifespan.
**Deep Clean:** A thorough cleaning can reset your home. Pay special attention to areas like windows, carpets, and air vents that may have gathered dust during the summer.
### 3. **Health and Wellness**
**Vitamin D Assessment:** As sunlight diminishes, consider a vitamin D supplement to help maintain your levels. Consult with a healthcare professional for tailored guidance.
**Exercise Plan:** With cooler days, outdoor activities such as hiking or biking become more enjoyable. Schedule a few outings to stay active.
**Hydration Reminder:** Even as temperatures dip, keeping hydrated remains important. Herbal teas can serve as a comforting way to ensure fluid intake.
### 4. **Back-to-School and Work Readiness**
**Supplies Inventory:** If you or your children are heading back to school, make sure to have all needed supplies. This includes stationery, tech gadgets, and organizational tools.
**Routine Adjustment:** Gradually tweak sleep schedules to match school or work hours. This helps to ease the transition and reduce stress levels.
**Meal Prepping:** With busy schedules approaching, think about preparing meals or snacks in advance. This saves time and ensures healthier eating habits.
### 5. **Leisure and Entertainment**
**Summer Bucket Review:** Look back at your summer bucket list. If there are still activities left undone, now is the time to fit them in.
**Memory Capture:** Organize and print photos from your summer experiences. Creating a photo album or scrapbook can be a delightful way to relive memories.
**Plan a Short Trip:** If feasible, plan a quick getaway to enjoy the last of the warm weather. Whether it’s a beach excursion or a mountain retreat, a change of scenery can be refreshing.
### 6. **Financial Overview**
**Budget Analysis:** Go over your summer spending and adjust your budget for the fall. This is an opportune moment to set financial goals for the rest of the year.
**Anticipate School Costs:** Be ready for any upcoming expenses related to school or extracurricular activities and plan accordingly.
### Conclusion
The conclusion of summer is a bittersweet time, filled with both reflection and anticipation. By organizing your home, adjusting your routines, and savoring the final warm days, you can transition smoothly into fall. Embrace the change and look forward to the cozy comforts and new adventures that autumn will offer.
