Book Page Pumpkin Candle Covers

Every once in a while I see a cute and easy craft project that I feel confident that I can accomplish in a few hours time without making myself crazy. Do you know what I mean?... does that ever happen to you? I used to get involved in these complicated projects that invariably took much more time than I thought it would, take more money than I planned to spend, and end up in a mess. yuk. So now I tend to try things that I feel are not above my skill level and that oftentimes I have the materials on hand.

Early Fall Sideboard and Vintage Basket Bouquet

A couple of weeks ago, I was out in the garage sorting tubs full of fall florals. Our garage is temperature controlled, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to do that. The previous owners  were very innovative and vented the sunroom AC into the garage, so thankyou! My fall tub count is far and away the most, even compared to Christmas décor. I was gathering like florals and took out these realistic looking straw/paper black eyed susans from the others. I just randomly stuck them in the old funeral basket which was within reach for later. 

Layering Elements for a Summer to Fall Entry

This time of year; late August to early September, I'm about easing into the Fall season. Since it's still really hot outside I'm not quite ready for a lot of dark colors, leaves and bright orange pumpkins. I still want to keep it light and bright, but have a subtle change in color to the warmer hues of autumn.

Cottage Review: Tips to Transition to Fall...the longer version!

Hey friends, I have a little bonus blast from the past today. Unless you've been hiding in a deep dark cave to stay cool this last few weeks, you've seen a bunch of posts on saying "tootles" to this long hot summer and embracing the concept of fall and cooler temps.

Early Fall Door Basket and Front Porch

Last week I shared my 5 Quick and Easy Ideas to Get in the Mood for Fall . I added a bonus tip and that was to do a mini refresh on the front door with a basket or wreath that bridges the gap between summer and fall.

The Late-Summer Cupboard with a French Country Flair

One of my favorite decor themes for mid to late summer is "chickens". I've never raised chickens or been around them except for a short time when I was a kid and an odd motley group of wild/escaped chickens found our farmhouse. That's where the collection "seed" was planted. Most of my chicken figurines are not worth much, but fun to collect and display throughout the summer months. Back in the 60's one of the decor themes was "Early American" and with that, accessories took on a slightly "farmy" style. Chicken decor sprouted up everywhere, but of course mainly in the kitchen and dining room. (Think chickens and coffee grinders themed wallpaper...)

5 Quick and Easy Ideas to Get in the Mood for Fall... even if you're not quite ready.

I know so many of us want to ease into the Fall season, but it's too hot in August and early September to get much in the mood. As much as I love fall, digging into tubs and boxes in hot storage areas, dragging out a bunch of faux pumpkins, and slathering on the fake leaf garlands just isn't appealing when you're breaking out in a sweat. I'd much rather take an approach that's gradual and less stressful.