So where has August gone?

seems to be disappearing very quickly in a haze of heat! We have never had it in the 30's here before, this is more like Spanish weather! Makes me feel I must up my efforts to go green!
Veg and fruit has been very disappointing this year, too much rain early on and not enough with excess heat now! Thin pickings this year but already starting to plan next year.
I am gradually putting together menu plans. Four weeks for each season taking into account what we provide for ourselves and what we can get elsewhere for the best price. It will all go on a spreadsheet for future reference. Nothing will be set in stone as I know there will be variables, like visiting friends, meals out and such.
My paperless household is going well. We are happily using the kitchen towels I made and they launder well. Same with washing up cloths. The other thing I have begun this month is making the dog and cat food. The dogs have meat with rice, potatoes and carrots. The cats have fish with pasta and a green veg, currently spinach! The cat food I loosely liquidize. At the moment they have kibble for breakfast and my meals for dinner. All are clearing the plate in one sitting! It will take me a while to build up meals in the freezer but eventually I will stop buying the kibble. I will need to invest in a meat grinder though as they will get calcium and other minerals from the bones. That is for the future now. I buy bones for the dogs as a treat and the cats eat mice. Sorry if that upsets anyone!
This came about as part of my bid to ditch chemicals. When I looked at what was in the kibble I was unhappy. I have read a few bits about how pet food is produced too. For my bird family we no longer buy the pellets, just wheat and maize and I top them up from the kitchen. Everyone is thriving!
The cheese project is about to begin, just getting the gear together! Hope to report first batch of farmhouse cheddar next month.
On the personal front I am now making my clothes. Two cotton skirts to make and two winter ones. Also am knitting a couple of cardigans too.
I am constantly amazed at how little I need to buy from the big guys, makes me happy!