It looks like we arrived home just in time to enjoy the Virginia foliage!

When we woke up this morning, the wind had knocked the leaves off the trees and into every nook and cranny around the yard - including the roads and the gutters.

Remember to clean your rain gutters and drain pipes a few times this season.

Be careful on back roads. There could be wet leaves or branches around the next turn.

And don't forget to disconnect your water hoses and drain outside faucets. If your outside faucets are not freeze proof, consider putting a thermal cover over them.

You may also want to:

• Have your Heat pump serviced

• Check weather stripping and caulking

• Remove air conditioners from windows

• Check storm windows/doors - clean/repair/install

• Check for crack/holes in siding - fill if necessary

• Take down screens/clean/store

• Check roof for leaks - repair if necessary

• Check flashings around vents/skylights/chimney for leaks

• Check chimney for damaged caps & loose/missing mortar

• Check/clean chimney flue - make sure damper closes tight

Preparation now  will save you $$ and time when it's really cold and and dark outside this winter!