Even though it’s been ages since I’ve gone back to school, every September I still get excited.  The weather cools.  The leaves change color and the spirit of moving forward is the air.  I want to buckle down and get started on projects and give myself new challenges to keep me busy over the winter months.   Here are a few things that I like to do:

1. Reorganize the closet

Pack your summer clothes up and bring out the cozy sweaters you’ll be wearing when it starts to snow.  Do you need a new winter coat or boots?  Tear your favorites from magazines and create a style board so you don’t make an impulse buy at a department store.

2.  Sign up for a class

Whether it’s making sushi, knitting or conversational French, learning something new is also a great way to get social.

3.  Go apple picking

Visit your local orchards and spend the morning picking apples and the afternoon making crumble, pie or cider – spiked!

4.  Get a back-to-school outfit

Nothing makes me happier than a new, seasonal outfit.  Treat yourself to something in a shade that’s been popping up everywhere this season, the color gray.

5.  Reinvent yourself

Schedule an appointment at your favorite make-up counter and ask the make-up artist to give you a make-over in this season’s colors.  If you’re feeling really bold, visit your hair stylist afterward and get a haircut that goes with the new you.

6.  Mix up your workout

‘Tis almost the season for skis, skates and snowboards. Incorporate a few extra leg strengthening exercises into your workout and get outside to hike while you can still enjoy the beauty of the leaves changing color.

7.  Accessorize your desk

Pick up a small bouquet of flowers or novelty item for your desk.  I have a wind-up, shrimp sushi that helps me procrastinate all winter long.

What about you?  Do you still feel that back-to-school excitement? What do you do about it?