OME AUGUST , the long and leisurely days of summer become filled with the excitement and activity that surrounds the anticipated arrival of autumn. Vacations end, and days of spontaneity become more scheduled and structured as thoughts shift in focus to all that lies ahead.

Bridging the gap between summer and fall, August is a time to get back to the basics; a time to enjoy the final days of summer, and look forward to the changes that the new season will bring.

For a smoother and more effortless transition from season to season, or summer vacation to new school year, take the time to fill your kitchen with the everyday essentials and great go-to basics that are showcased in this month's Food Enthusiast. Discover the many ways that a well-stocked pantry and some handy kitchen tools can help you save time, and energy, on those days you find yourself without enough of either.

From premium canned goods, to olive oil, to seasonings, keeping a selection of top-quality ingredients on hand can be the key to achieving flavorful, balanced meals in a minimal amount of time. With the burst of activity that comes with the start of a new school year, having a well-rounded diet can help everyone stay healthy, focused and energized. Nutritious breakfasts and lunches are an absolute essential, while suppertime gives everyone in the house a chance to gather together in the kitchen or around the dining room table to enjoy a meal and chat about the day.

For those of us lucky enough to live in a state that offers beautiful weather for most of the year, the backyard barbecue grill has become an outdoor extension of the kitchen--an essential for preparing foods that equals in importance, for many, to the oven or stove. The premium beef, and incredibly fresh selections of seafood, poultry, sausages and produce available at Andronico's are wonderful for simple, and satisfying suppers. In many parts of the country, grilling is limited to summertime only. By preparing foods outside on the barbecue, you can savor the flavors of freshly grilled foods and enjoy a favorite culinary tradition long after summer has ended.

This time of year, it is more important than ever to make mealtime a priority. Preparing the foods, and then sitting down to enjoy them, is part of a consistent, enjoyable routine that can make adjusting to a new school year, and a new schedule, easier on everyone. Dinnertime offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect and regroup. And with a well-stocked kitchen, fixing and eating dinner becomes more than just another addition to your to-do list; it offers a peaceful period of time with the ones you love, creating a calming close to the chaos of the day.

With all of the finest foods and kitchen tools you need to make mealtimes more memorable and enjoyable, Andronico's can help you make the most out of these glorious final days of summer, and warmly welcome the arrival of fall.