Today it's raining again (two weeks ago we had like seven inches in two days) but for the first time yet, it's coooold, like fifty degrees. But I refuse to turn on the heat yet. I just can't do it. I'm trying to figure out HOW I have a $45 gas bill when I haven't yet turned on my heat, have pretty much switched to line drying. Okay, I have a hot water heater, but other than that, I can't think of anything.

If the gas bill is this much NOT USING PRACTICALLY anything, I'm really scared for this coming winter. I have resolved to keep my heat to 65 and wear as much clothing as possible.

Anyway, not to go completely off topic, but I was wondering what kind of fall gardening chores if any you all are doing. Those of you who like to push zones and have to protect tender plants, any idea of when I should start wrapping my new palm up in burlap and twine? Do I wait until November? I've never had to protect a plant before.