10 things to do in August

Outdoor entertaining and back-to-school preparations 1 Pack a picnicEnjoy every last bit of the warm weather by packing a picnic over your weekend. Visit your local park or take a trip to a small town outside of your city. Either way, enjoy the sunshine so the memory lasts well into fall. 2 Garage sweepDo a massive clean sweep of your garage at the end of the summer. A tedious task, yes, but when the time comes for you to store your patio furniture, BBQ and everything else that comes with outdoor entertaining, you'll realize how worthwile it was! 3 Get your groove on -- with your kids!In a few weeks, the kids will return to school and even though you may sigh in relief, your children will presumably be less than pleased. Really want to surprise them? Plan a return-to-school party for your kids and friends and fill loot bags with fun back-to-school supplies. You'll be the coolest parent on the block! 4 Fire it upThe end of summer -- although sad -- isn't necessarily the end of the fun. Host an end-of-summer bonfire in your backyard with a portable bonfire. Roast marshmallows, sip hot chocolate and share laughter with good friends.5 Book itCome September, we begin to sow the seeds for staying indoors, so why not update your library with new fall titles? Saying goodbye to summer by cosying up on the couch with a hot new book won't seem so bad. 6 Closet clean-upTime to store away your airy camisoles and sundresses to make room for the season's new looks. Take extra initiative and have your clothes laundered and folded by a professional. It will make packing that much easier so the next time the warm weather rolls around, you're just as fresh as a daisy, too! Professional fall cleaning and crafts 7 Preserve natureTake advantage of the delicious summer produce while you can and keep the spirit of summer alive by preserving your jams and spreads. Make it a family affair by creating personalized labels for every jar you make.8 Clean sweepYou want to enjoy being outdoors as much as possible while you can, so invest in a house cleaning service to come to your home and do an entire overhaul. With your family coming in and out, dust and bacteria are sure to be everywhere, so instead of you scrubbing away, get a professional to do it. A small investment with a big reward! 9 Get craftyWant to welcome autumn in a chic way? Create your own fall-inspired front door wreath. They're easy to make and can utilize all materials found in your own backyard. Take vines and berry leaves and get creative! 10 And a one, a two ... It's time to forget about that old adage "the lazy days of summer." Get off the hammock and re-visit your fitness program for the new season. Best tip? Set a goal, whether it be a 2km walk or a 5km jog, write it in your calendar and keep it. Setting goals is an excellent way to commit to your health and overall well-being.