Fall Leaf Forecast

Fall Leaf Forecast:

Best Spots for Leaves Around Asheville, NC

 

 

a view from the top

Leaf season is here, which means it is time to go for a hike, walk, or drive to view some gorgeous colors. One of the best areas to see spectacular autumn leaves is the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smokey Mountains. By mid-October the leaves are usually popping, for the lower Blue Ridge Mountains, late October and early November is usually the best time to admire the beauty. There are lots of places to go, but the next few blogs will feature some favorites over the years.

 

standing under a large rock

 

Mount Mitchell

 

Entering the parkway off of Highway 74 (also known as Charlotte Hwy), stop by the visitor center on the left and ask about trails and directions toward Mt. Mitchell. The representatives are very helpful and have given this family much advice on good trails for children and pointing us in the direction of amazing views during and not during leaf season. If going to Mt. Mitchell, take a left out of the visitor center and prepare to be amazed!

 

Known as the highest spot east of the Mississippi, this leave viewing venture will take travelers by famous spots such as Craggy Gardens, and the best part is, there are several visitor centers and the Folk Art center on the way to the Mountain.

 

Trails at Mt. Mitchell

 

Once there, picking trails may be difficult. One can choose to park and just walk about a quarter of a mile to the view point or go on a Sherwood forest type hike with wonderful views. It is located across from the Mt. Mitchell Gift Shop and Concession Stand (where one can warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, or apple cider). The trail is easy travel, a bit of a climb, and features some awesome rocks and a few rock caves.

 

Fall Morning Fog

The two shorter trails are Balsam and Deep Gap. There is a Mt. Mitchell trail going from Black Mt. Camping site to Mt. Mitchell. The first two can be found from the summit parking lot. Both have signs along the path about wildlife and history of the mountain. Once at the top, take time to really enjoy the cool air and the 360 view.

 

Happy Fall!!!

 

 



Halloween Table Setting: Cobwebs and Skulls

Cobwebs and Skulls Tablescape

 

Tis the season to be creepy....

 

Not only does this Halloween Table setting scream Halloween, it is affordable. Using this Halloween idea for a buffet style gathering is perfect and all items mentioned are on sale for up to 60% off at Micheal's and can also be found at Wal-Mart or other retailers easily.

 

Scary Jack-O-Lantern

Materials:

 

• Jewelry Holders
• Candle Holders (no matter what type or size)
• Electric (battery powered) Tea-light or Pillar Candles (optional)- note: please do not use real candles due to a possible fire hazard.
• Black Tablecloth
• White Cheese Clothe Tablecloth (optional)
• 3-4 Packs of Webbing
• 1-2 packs of plastics Spiders (also available at Target for under $2)
• 3-4 Skulls
• Plastic Rats, Stacks of fake books with bones or skulls on them (available for 1/2 off at Micheal's) or old books from home-no dusting required)- all optional

Directions:

 

1. Place the black tablecloth over the table, place the cheesecloth tablecloth on top.
2. Place jewelry and candleholders in a line or bunched up over the middle of the table.
3. Place skulls around the candleholders, place battery powered Tea-lights or pillars inside the candle holders and around the display.
4. Weave the webs and place spiders in them.
5. Place the food on the table and put rats, books, and some of the spiders around the items.

Such a fun Spooky Halloween buffet decoration, perfect for adult parties and older children. Happy Halloween!!!





Panera Bread's Autumn Soup and Sandwich

Panera Bread's Autumn Soup, Cranberry Turkey Flat Bread, and Pumpkin Spice Latte=Fantastic Fall Flavor!!

 

 

Holy moly folks. Just got the Turkey and Cranberry Flatbread and Autumn Soup combo at Panera Bread, think this girl has fallen for their autumn combo. For anyone who loves this season, this is a must try. The combo is very filling, the Turkey and Cranberry Flatbread or Autumn Soup by itself would be enough for a meal, but the two definitely compliment each other and after a cardio blast class and an 8.2 mile run, this combo and the exercise is enough to make one wish it was Thanksgiving Day so she could just lie down on the couch and watch Football.

 

To add to the mix, their Pumpkin Spice Latte is, in the words of the Grinch, "Fabulous!" The flavor is perfect, not syrupy tasting not overly sweet, and the best blend of pumpkin, spices, and coffee. A great morning drink, afternoon pick up, or treat to carry while walking around an outdoor shopping center.

 

So, check it out. This is really good and remember to hold on to the receipts and go online to get deals and discounts on the next visit. Happy Happy Fall Ya'll!!!

Fall Party Menu

Fall Party Menu:

Pumpkin and Apple Pizza's and Opened Faced Tomato Basil Sandwich

 

This is the time of year that parties and festivals seem to occur multiple times a week. Parents are hosting Autumn and Halloween parties, churches seem to celebrate homecoming in abundance or at least have harvest gatherings which means POTLUCKS, schools are holding fall festivals, and communities are coming together to eat, drink, and enjoy favorite seasonal foods. Since this is the season for apples and pumpkin, it would not be right to exclude them from the menu, these homemade pizzas make a great dish for parties or dinners. Made with Ciabatta and French or Italian Bread, delicious Munster and Mozzarella cheese with fresh Parmesan and some garlic paired with other spices, one bite of these treats certainly lets everyone know, fall has arrived.

 

 

Apple Pizza

 

Ingredients:

 

• 2 pieces Ciabatta bread, split in half
• 4 Tablespoons olive oil
• 4 pieces Munster or Sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 thinly sliced golden or Fuji or Gala apples
• 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

 

 

 Preheat Broiler. Thinly slice apples, lay aside.
Mix the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Pour and spread 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each half of Ciabatta bread.

 Sprinkle the spice mixture onto each piece of bread. Place the apple slices on top. Lay cheese over the apple slices and Broil for 2 minutes. Let cool about 2 minutes before serving.



 

Tomato and Basil Open Faced Sandwich

Ingredients:

 

• 2 pieces of Ciabatta bread, halved
• 4 large slices of ripe tomato (heirloom is absolutely delicious)
• 4 slices Munster or Havarti or Gouda cheese
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped rosemary
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped basil
• 2 tablespoons garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

 

Preheat Broiler. Drizzle and spread olive oil over each half of Ciabatta Bread. Mix the spices in a small bowl and sprinkle at least a teaspoon over each one. Place 1 slice of tomato on top and a slice of cheese on top of the tomato. Sprinkle more spice mix on top, if desired and broil for 2 minutes on a pizza pan or cookie sheet. Let cool 2 minutes before serving.

Pumpkin Cheese Pizza

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf sliced French or Italian Bread
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 14.5 oz jar pumpkin purée or pumpkin pie filling
• 1-2 pounds shredded mozzarella cheese
• 5-8 oz. fresh parmesan, grated
• 2 tablespoons nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 2 tablespoons pepper

Directions:

 

Preheat Broiler. Place bread slices on a pizza pan or cookie sheet. Drizzle olive oil on top of each using a spoon. Spread the pumpkin on top. Mix the spices together in a bowl and sprinkle over top each piece of bread. Mix the cheeses together and sprinkle on top of the bread. Broil for 2 minutes and prepare to serve (pictured above with tomato basil sandwich).

 

 

 

Pumpkin Apple Pizza

 

Ingredients:

 

Same as pumpkin cheese pizza (see above), add:

 

• 2 thinly sliced apples (gala, Fuji, or golden delicious work well)
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon

Preheat Broiler. Spread olive oil over the bread pieces using spoon. Sprinkle half of the spice mix on top of the oil. Spread pumpkin on top. Place apple slices on the pumpkin purée and sprinkle with remaining spices. Sprinkle cheese mix on top and broil 2 minutes and prepare to serve.

 

All of these recipes, for up to 12 people, cost less than $10. Look for breads  and cheese on sale (lots of Italian loads end up being 1.99 or less and shredded cheeses can be $2 or less, depending on the store). Items such as olive oil is usually in the home already, but vegetable and corn oil can be substituted for olive.

 

Happy Harvest!!!!

 



Fall Premieres 2014

Fall Premieres

Another reason to LOVE this fantastic season is, premiere time for favorite shows and upcoming Holiday movies (not to mention 13 Nights of Halloween on ABC Family and scarier movies on channels such as, AMC). There are so many series coming back, some for their final season, some new, and others just returning because the people have watched and have liked! So prepare to set the DVR folks because here are a few dates to remember, and if there are any shows not on here (because this is a list of personal preferences for the most part) go ahead and leave others in the comment section.

September 15th

Daytime Talk show fans remember to set these shows and more to record:

• Rachael Ray -she's back!!! However, check the local cable providers for time and channel. It may be 9AM, 11AM, or 3PM on CBS, NBC, or ABC stations
• The View (not a huge fan but does help to watch on those cold or rainy days when running 6-9 miles)
• Live with Kelly and Micheal-yea, weird, but it is supposed to be the new season beginning....on this date, makes no sense because they have had new episodes all month but okay
• The Chew-it has already started the new season, but lets face it, the best recipes and autumn dishes will probably start up around this time or at least on the first day of fall this year

For other favorites, just comment.


Okay here is a longer list of new shows and old ones, so be prepared:

• Dancing with the Stars-Monday, Sept. 15, it is BACK!! And this time it will air on Mondays and Tuesdays
• The Big Bang Theory-Bazinga!-Monday, Sept. 22, on the week of Oct. 30th back on Thursdays
•  Gontham-Monday, Sept. 15th, Fox 8-9PM followed by a huge favorite:
• Sleepy Hollow-Fox, Monday, 9-10PM-this is a great show mixing history (with a bit of retelling) with the classic story of Icabod Crane and some spooky spooks-the first season has been airing leading up to the premiere.
• The Flash-a personal sucker for fun super hero shows, really enjoyed No Ordinary Family, hopefully this will have a good story line.
• Once Upon A Time: LOVE this show. For anyone who absolutely enjoys storybook tales with a mix of Disney characters, this is a must see. Before watching the premiere, catch up via Netflix or Hulu, even though these are familiar characters, their stories are not like those in the fairy tales-Sunday, Sept. 28 at 8PM. ABC
• Madam Secretary: big Lea Teoni fan, and hoping this will be a good show with some comedy mixed in (hoping). CBS
• The Middle: anyone with a family can relate to this show, it is hilarious. Wednesday, Sept. 24th, 8PM-ABC.
• The Goldberg's: Anybody who grew up in the 80's can so relate to this and it is super funny and nostalgic-Wednesday, Sept. 24, 8:30PM. ABC
• Last Man Standing-Tim Allen is at it again, but this time with 3 daughters. Even so, this show delivers the laughs and will have its season premiere, Oct. 3 (Friday), 8PM on ABC.
• Kim of Queens: For those hooked on Lifetime reality shows, or just one or two of them, the Georgia Peach of Pageants is back on, Tuesday Sept. 16th at 10PM. Looks like she is auditioning for more girls and her old ones are going to get a bit of a challenge and have to work a bit harder.
• Parenthood: The last season airs on NBC starting Thursday Sept. 25th, based on the movie of the same name, the show is wonderful and touching, lots of drama at times but worth the viewing.
• Constantine: Looks worth watching, for those who like mystery and supernatural or Sleepy Hollow, check it out on Oct. 24th on NBC.
• NFL: It's already started, so, Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays Pro-Football nights (Go Steelers!!), Fridays and Saturdays-college football (go Vols).

There is so much more out there-after living in Hawaii for four and a half years, Hawaii 5-0 has become a favorite for scenery, not really story line, but it is back.Of course, so is, The Simpsons and Family Guy, Whose Line is it Anyways?, Reign, and Grimm, along with the very creepy American Horror Story, of which this girl has not watched since season 1, might watch season 3, but 2 and 4 seem a bit too creepy-clowns are already weird (Thank you Killer Clowns from Outer Space at a sleep over), so...yea.

Anyways, there is a quick look at some new shows, lots of old favorites and looking forward to holiday programming soon. Happy Autumn!!!

 

•  

Autumn Sales

Autumn Sales!

As crazy a it is, yes, stores are already featuring Autumn sales. For those who frequent craft stores, they are trying to lower prices on fall items and putting Christmas items in their place, ALREADY!!! To add to this frenzy, just saw a pop up on the Hallmark channel saying, "8 weeks until Countdown to Christmas begins." 8 weeks until Halloween? It goes to fast.

Just to give some help for those looking for some deals, Micheal's is having a huge sale on summer and fall items. Summer items are up to 80% off and fall items are anywhere from 20 to 50% off. All Ashland fall garland is 50% off now, which is great. Old Navy has been featuring sales as well, one included $10 kid jeans and throughout the store 20-50% off, walked out with 4 items for under $30, one of the items was kid jeans, the other an adult sweater. Children's place is having a good sale on pajama's for winter and Target is featuring baby/toddler sales on items from clothes to car seats, also get $10 gift card with the purchase of 3 household items. Kohl's is doing the night owl and early bird sales, and one can be sure they will soon be offering the $10 coupons for every $50 spent here the next week or two, but they do have a lot of shoes up to 80% off, some great deals. 

For those who like fragrances, Bath and Body is having a sale, up to 75% off and 5 for $18 hand soaps and more. Yankee candles has some specials on Halloween candles and candles holders, as well as BOGO 50% off. Overall, it is a good time to look around and this seasonal gal i sure within the next two weeks, prices will probably drop again and more sales will pop up. Also, check out deals on Shutterfly, they were doing 101 prints free and have been offering free 8X8 photo books, always offering deals. Happy Fall!!! 

PUMPKINS!!!

Walked into a grocery store today and saw a stack of pumpkins!! It took everything not to grab one or two, but it made me want something pumpkin right away. It also inspired me to go through the storage closet and get out all the fall decorations, and create more. One decoration that is super fun to make, involving a scooped out pumpkin (big or small) is a flower display.

Pumpkin Flower Displays are perfect for any counter, table, or placed on beside a fire place or in a corner for a fall look. There are a few ways to do this, but here are two that seem to do well.

PUMPKIN FLOWER DISPLAY

Materials:

• Wax
• Piece of cloth
• 1 medium sized pumpkin
• Vase to fit inside the pumpkin (optional)
• 1 or 2 bouquet of flowers (enough to cover the edges of the opening)   
• Charger or large flat glass plate to hold pumpkin

Directions:

1. Wipe the pumpkin with a wet cloth and dry it with a cloth.
2. Gut the pumpkin
3. Use a towel or cloth and rub a thin layer of wax around the pumpkin (this helps it last longer). Place the pumpkin on the charger.
4. Place the vase inside the pumpkin, fill with water (if not using a vase, use fake flowers, or add some water to the pumpkin).
5. Arrange the flowers making them completely fill the top of the pumpkin, showing no cut edges.

Another way to do this is to follow steps 1-3 but do not use a vase. Save the top of the pumpkin. Drill holes in a pattern or in rows around the pumpkin. Cut flowers to fit inside the holes, use multiple flowers if needed. Place a few larger flowers inside the top of the pumpkin, and place the top of the pumpkin back on somewhat lopsided. Place in desired spot, decorate with a large ribbon if wish to and enjoy!!! Happy Autumn!!!  

Halloween Pumpkins, Jack-o-Lanterns

Halloween Pumpkins

Spooky Tree and Ghost

Carving a jack-o-lantern does not require the purchasing of a carving kit or templates, all it takes is a good paring knife (or even pocket knife), paper, pen, and imagination. One can easily create a really cool pattern or scene for Halloween inspired by the great outdoors, using cookie cutters, or simply using some imagination. Just cut off the top or bottom of the pumpkin, gut it, run a spoon along the sides to make sure no guts are hanging, and start carving (tip: To help the pumpkin last throughout the season, wipe with a lightly damp towel, dry, and after it is dried, rub wax over it in a thin layer. This can also be done after carving, but it worked great before hand as well).

Leaves

Halloween is not always about ghosts and spooks, it is also a time to celebrate harvest and changing of seasons and pace. Using leaf shaped cookie cutters or stencils, trace patterns around a gutted pumpkin. Carve out the shapes. Using a permanent marker, trace around the leaves in red, purple, and brown. Place a candle or light inside the pumpkin and enjoy the glow. This is a great idea for a center piece at a harvest celebration.

Spooky Tree

 Draw a tree on a piece of plain white paper, making spooky looking branches or vines at the bottom of the tree. Add some bats flying beside it. For a more spooky tree:

•  Draw a large circle. 
• Draw the trunk and a branch reaching to the end of the circle on each side of the tree (like hands).
•  Make a mean face on the tree and some triangles above the face (making the head of the tree look spiky).
•  Crave the face first.
• Carve between the head and arm and the triangles second.
• Crave the bottom part last.

Ghosts

This can be done in a variety of ways, using stencils, cookie cutters, or paper and pen. A favorite is cutting out traditional ghosts that look like they are moving in one direction and placing a moon with simple bird slits in the sky. One could also do the BOO face, carve a big oval mouth with two round eyes or trace ghosts in random spots around the pumpkin, or get several pumpkins and carve Pac-Man on the first, and ghosts from the famous game on the others, make it look like he is chasing them. 

Hope this inspires some ideas for Halloween jack-o-lanterns and Happy Fall!!! 

  

Grapevine Autumn Ribbon Wreath

Simple Autumn Wreath

Creating a wreath is not complicated and can be done in less time and with less money than one thinks. Using a small/medium sized grapevine wreath (a favorite to work with), 1 fall leaf bundle, 2 1/2 inch fall colored ribbon, and a pumpkin clip (optional), anyone can construct a wreath perfect for the pumpkin season.

Materials:

• 1 small/medium grapevine wreath
• 1 fall leaf bundle
• 2 1/2 inch by 12 foot autumn colored or designed ribbon
• Pumpkin clip to match ribbon 

Directions:

1. Wrap ribbon around the wreath starting 6-7 inches from the starting edge of the ribbon.
2. Wrap around the wreath tightly, straightening along the way and leaving gaps. 
3. Leaving 7-8 inches at the end, cut the ribbon.
4. Tie into a double knot.
5. Place the pumpkin clip over the knot, clipping onto the straight part of the ribbon just above the knot.
6. Separate the leaves and place where desired.

For an even easier wreath, get three pumpkin clips and two to three leaf bundles. Clip the pumpkin clips around the wreath and place the leaves in the areas between them. All of these items came from Michaels and was a little over $12, took all of 5 minutes to make, and there is a lot of extra ribbon for more projects. 

Halloween Movies on ABC Family

Just a quick write for now.....ABC Family is airing some movies that usually air during 13 Nights of Halloween. Tonight, The Sorcerer's Apprentice will show at 6PM EST. Tomorrow, starting at 6PM EST, Casper followed by Addam's Family, Addam's Family Values, and Beetlejuice. If you miss Saturdays line-up, it will air again Sunday, same time, same channel, after Ninja Turtles 1 & 2 (1990's). Alright, everyone, have fun and Happy Early 13 Nights of Halloween :)

Fall Savings at Micheal's, Old Navy, Children's Place, and More!

Fall Savings!!!

Pumpkin Candle Holders

There are some fall savings already popping up online and in stores. For all the Halloween fans out there, most the online sites are offering savings on costumes and decorations, and it is a great time to shop clearance because those items will soon be flying off the shelves. Most the discounts are not on brand new 2014 costumes, even so, there is up to $20 off on orders and one can always check "retail me not" for any coupons. 

Some clothing stores are having sales, not necessarily on fall apparel, but on items such as jeans, short sleeve pull over shirts, and even some long sleeve shirts. In fact, Old Navy and Children's Place have $10 jeans for kids and $19 for adults at Old Navy. Target has jeans on sale from $10 to $14.99 for kids. Sears and JCpenney has up to 50% off on Back to School clothes and up to 60% off on home goods, and of course, Kohls is doing "Kohls Cash" right now and is also having a huge sale and customers can get 15% off for under $100 spent and 20% off for spending over $100. Plus, they had fall items in store the beginning of August so they are bound to have even more at this point.

Now, for the store that inspired my fall savings search, Micheals. Micheals is having a large sale on summer items, including picture boxes (which make great Christmas gifts), storage baskets (found medium sized ones for as low as $4.99!!!), and even Fall items. Autumn garland, steams, and bushes is 40% off, so the highest price is under $14, much better than $22. There is much more fall items to see in the store as well and most is fairly priced, and they have Peanuts Gang Autumn and Thanksgiving Garden Flags. Joann Fabrics has some good deals on fall and Halloween items as well, especially on dishes and hand towels and fabrics. 

Over all, there are some great prices to be found, but one definitely has to search through ads, stores, and even scrolling on websites, but when a good buy is found and can be used, take it. Happy Autumn!!! 

Pumpkin Tablescape: Use pumpkins to decorate

Pumpkin Tablescape

Pumpkins from the garden

Went into Michael's today and was instantly inspired when coming face to face with several different types of pumpkin candle holders. Fall is all about comfort, food, family, and is considered to be the harvest time. The pumpkin has become one of the main foods associated with Autumn and with all the different types, both fake and real, available now, seems to be most people's decoration of choice, and paired with candle holders, gold chargers, and the right fall colors will make for one great tablescape.

Pumpkin Decorations for the Table

These items are easy to find, of course, available at Michaels, but also at other craft stores and online. 

• Pumpkin Candles Holders for tealights, pillars, or votives
• Gold Chargers  
• Orange or Brown tablecloth
• Burlap Roll to use as table runner and coasters
• Medium and Small pumpkins, any color, real or fake
• Plum colored plates or autumn decorated plates, 7-7 1/2 inches (optional)
• 7 1/2 to 8 inch white or orange plates (optional)
• Plastic drinking glasses (optional)
• Cut out autumn leaves
• Napkins wrapped around plastic fork, spoon, and knife

 Place the tablecloth over the table and cut enough burlap to go down the center of the table, as a runner, cut 2 inches away from the edges. Use the burlap runner to line up candle holders and Pumpkins. If desired, carve messages into the Pumpkins, such as Happy Fall or Welcome. Place the chargers around the table at each seat, put the white plate on top of the charger and the autumn decorated plate on top of the white plate. Place napkins wrapped with plastic ware on top of the plates. Write each guests name on a cut out leaf and place beside the napkins. Place the burlap coasters (simple fold over and glue with fabric glue) to the upper right hand side of the plates with the glass on top.

In most cases, when a tablescape is involved, buffet style is the way to go. Let the guests find their seats, thank them for coming or say a blessing and then dig in to the food. Or, instead of setting up the table for guests, set the food around the table and let guests dine in the living area or on the porch (fall is still a good time to be outdoors). Happy Fall!!!

Back to School

 Summer is coming to a close soon, and school is getting ready go into full gear. With the coming of school means families rushing to stores to buy lunch boxes, book bags, clothes, shoes, and tons of school supplies. It also means preparing for bake sales, homework, earlier mornings, after school activities, class parties, and festivals. In all, it is one busy, busy time. Which means it can be one very expensive time, but not to worry. For those looking to safe as much as possible on items for schools look no further, here are some handy dandy tips.

School Fall Festival, with two of the three, 2013

• Shop for school supplies at multiple places to save money, before going make a list of needs, go to the stores and write down the prices and then decide where to get what. A few store suggestions, Wal-Mart, Target (yes, they do have some good prices on quit a bit of things including backpacks), Dollar General, and Family Dollar.
• When it comes to shoes, younger kids are going to wear them out FAST! Right now Payless is running 50% off on certain shoes and backpacks, Kohls usually has some brands that are on sale but the biggest mark down will happen after the school rush towards the middle or end of September, Sears has proven to be good and even compares to online deal prices for many tennis shoes, and Shoe Carnival is doing BOGO 1/2 off. There is a lot of options, but the best advice, for younger children get good tennis shoes that support their feet and leave a little room for growth, but try not to splurge because in a couple of months the kid will need another pair.
• Clothing. Thankfully, lots of sales occur at this time, jeans for boys and girls can be found for $10 and under at many stores, including Old Navy and Target. Shirts are a steal for less than $4 or even $3 at Wal-Mart (basic shirts). Of course, there are great prices at Sears and Kohls during this time and Kohls is offering percentages off, which change every few days. One of the best advices to give, go through sale items and even check out consignment shops.
• School Lunches. Okay, as a mom of 3 boys, this can get pricey. Stick to sandwiches and wraps and pizza made from wraps. The sandwiches are simple and the wraps often incorporate leftover items. As for the sides, get sealable containers (small) to put fruits and applesauce in, grab full bags of chips or cheez-its or what not and place certain amounts in baggies for each day. The only real splurge is granola bars, a box of 20, and sometimes rice krispy treats. One can even pack cereal as a side and other leftover veggies or sides from the night before.

Hopefully, these tips will help parents prepare for a successful school year and be able to spend some money on themselves at local coffee joints on a pumpkin spice latte when fall roles around. Happy School Days!!

Curtains For Fall

Autumn Curtains

Creating Autumn curtains is easy and these autumn leaf curtains require NO SEWING!!! Which makes it even easier. 

Autumn is the time to bring the outside colors inside, and one of the most famous aspects of the season is the colorful leaves. By using already curtains already owned (or buying new plain colored curtains), two or three fall colored fabrics, scissors, leaf stencils, and fabric glue, drapes can easily be transformed to match the season.

Autumn Leaves Curtains

There are a few ways to do this, here is the first. 

Materials:

• Yellow, Orange, Brown, or Sky Blue Drapes 
• 2 different colored fabrics, preferrably cotton and in a fall color (not the same color as the drapes)
• Fall Leaf Stencils or Cookie Cutters
• Black Pen or a Sharpie
• Fabric Glue

Directions:

 

1. Lay one of the fabrics being used for the leaves on a flat surface (if using a good table, put something such as cardboard between it and the curtain).
2. Using leaf stencils or cookie cutters to trace out patterns on the fabric with the sharpie. Cut the leaves out and repeat using the second fabric.
3.  Lay the curtains on a flat hard surface.
4. Place the leaves on the curtain in desired areas, lay with the sharpie side down (if any ink is showing).
5. Lift each leaf and put fabric glue on the bottom, press gently onto the curtain. Once all the leaves are placed, do not move the drape and let it dry over night. 
6.  Hang in desired spot the next day and enjoy. 

Thanks for reading. Happy Fall!!!! 

Masquerade Halloween Wreaths

Halloween Wreaths

Decided to walk around Michael's Craft Store yesterday and thought of two ideas for wreaths. First of all, the tinsel and wooden wreaths are mostly 4.99 (larger ones are 9.99), not too bad. Right now there is a 40% sale on some of the products, including baskets and there are a few baskets that would be under $2 with that price. On top of that, black leaf tinsel was 2.99 and the foam wreaths were anywhere from 2.99 to 4.99 (for small and medium sizes). The only items seen that were a bit pricey were the Autumn Leaf Garland ($21.99 for 6 feet) and some

decorations that would be perfect for wreaths. However, after much looking and pricing, here are two Halloween Wreath ideas for under $20 and maybe even less.

 Masquerade Wreath

When thinking masquerade, naturally one thinks, MASKS!!! Several on a wreath, but instead of using several masks, stick with one medium to large sized mask (can be found for $1.99 and up, some with feathers are under $5, look online) with or without feathers to use in place of a bow and two or three feathers to match the mask ($4.99 to $5.99 each at Michael's).

Materials:

• Purple or Black tinsel wreath (4.99)
• 1 medium to large masquerade mask ($1.99 to $9.99)
• 2 to 3 bunches or single feathers to match mask (seen anywhere from $.99 to $5.99 on Amazon)
• A roll of ribbon to match the colors of the mask ($4 and under on eBay and most were $3.99 to $4.99 at Michael's)

Directions:

1. Lay the wreath on a flat surface and place the mask where desired. If the mask has an elastic ban, use it to tie the mask onto the wreath. If the mask does not, use the ribbon by cutting desired amount and go through the eye holes and tie onto the wreath. 
2. Place feathers in desired areas throughout the wreath by sticking them in on an angle.
3. Hang the wreath.

There are several different things one can do with this idea. 

• Use more masks, cut the elastic string off and use a glue gun to place on the wreath.
• Before placing anything else on the wreath, glue the end of the ribbon to the back of the wreath (using a glue gun) or pin it. Wrap the ribbon around the wreath leaving generous gaps, keeping it loose. Glue the end to the back of the wreath.

Halloween Black Leaf Wreath

Extremely simple and inexpensive.

Materials:

• Foam Wreath Base
• Cheese Cloth (depending on wreath size, 5+ yards is a safe bet, $2.99 to $10.00 online)-cut into strips.
• Black Leaf Tinsel (2.99)
• 6-12 inch piece of black ribbon
•  Hot Glue
• Plastic spiders or bones (optional)

Directions:

1. Glue the end of the first cheesecloth strip to the back of the wreath, wrap tightly. Glue the end of the first strip to the wreath. Repeat with each strip until the wreath is covered. If desired, cover twice with cheesecloth. 
2. Wrap the black leaf tinsel around the wreath, securely, leaving two to three inch gaps (so, not touching). Glue the ends to the back of the wreath.
3. Glue some spiders in desired spots on the wreath (optional). 
4. Tie the ribbon onto the top of the wreath, loop it through the hole, and make a bow. 

One could stain the cloth using tea and even use this idea as candle base decorations or even to put around the bottoms bowls at a Halloween party. Happy Fall!!!

Simply Spooky Halloween Wreaths

Halloween Wreaths

It is getting to be that time of year to think about Autumn and Halloween decorations. Many craft stores have Fall and Halloween items out already. For most, it may be too early, but for those who decorate on the first day of Autumn (less than 2 months away), it is time to prepare!

This blog is going to be quick and simple, following the same materials and decorations on another post made (Everyday Christmas), make a Halloween tinsel wreath. To add to the tinsel wreath, here are several ideas:

• Bows-simple-grey bow on a black wreath, yellow or purple on orange
• Wrap star, pumpkin, leaf, bat, or other thin wire tinsel around the tinsel wreath
• Add plastic spiders in a web in the center of the wreath or around the wreath
• Use artificial fall leaves, cut the stems to shorten them, place throughout the wreath by stinking them, securely, into the tinsel
•  Wrap orange or purple lights around the wreath
• Dip cheese cloth into tea, ring out, let dry. Rip and loosely wrap around the wreath or just hang bits of it on the wreath (black wreath)
• Use a glue gun to glue Halloween ornaments around the wreath

These are simple suggestions anyone can do. Also, with some research, these items can be found online for less than $10, in most cases less than $5. Happy Halloween!!!

Fall 2014

 Has anyone noticed the sales popping up at stores, especially the summer sells? Kohls is doing home sales and summer item sales, along with Old Navy, Sears (who is also featuring Back to School items, and Yankee Candles has new Autumn scents on the website. Best of all, some of the costume stores are still having sales and offer new arrivals, Party City has up to 70% off costumes right now making it a great time to bu and save.

Mt. Mitchell, Fall 2013

It is no wonder Fall items are starting to sneak their way into the stores, with many schools starting in less than a month and autumn officially two months away tomorrow, stores are enticing buyers to get ready for cooler weather and autumn colors.

Even so, there are some good deals to be found on these seasonal items, such as:

• Dinnerware: Pier 1 actually has some good prices on their fall dinnerware, Sears 2014 Fall and Winter Catalog offer some great sets at good prices, and overstock.com always offers good deals on seasonal items.

• Halloween Decor: Halloween decorations and most autumn decor is priced well right now. Speaking of overstock.com, Martha Stewart pumpkin/Halloween clings are $8.09 for a pack of 12-trust me, that's a good deal. There is a face paint kit marked down from $28 to $12.86, a lighted black witch marked down from $91 to $29.99, and so much more. Halloween costumes.com is offer 25 % off all costumes online, and spirit Halloween.com is having a huge sale, some pieces are over 50% off!!! 

Also, Pier 1 has Halloween Decor online as well, after all it is only 101 days til Halloween, might as well prepare now. 

• Candles: Okay, this one is tricky, but there are some deals to be found, especially on eBay. Some of the seasonal candles seem to go up in bidding or set prices on eBay as the season draws closer and once it hits, now is the time to stock up-even if the candles are from last year, as long as it is a brand one prefers and can be found at a better price than in stores, go for it. As for Yankee Candles, there are several new items, flavors, and collegiate candles. 

 FYI: Black Friday in July at Target is back, July 25th and 26th, check out the website for details.

So, go ahead start looking for deals-one just found is a cranberry mold at William and Sonoma for 14.95. Happy Fall Shopping!! And if nothing else, just buy some summer items marked 75% off. 

 

Decorating for Fall: Painting and Accessorizing

Autumn Decorating

 Is this cool weather making anyone else crave Autumn, we are so close to the season!!! 49 days away from NFL kickoff, less than that for college football, 132 days til Thanksgiving, 105 days to Halloween, probably less than a month til we see Halloween candy on the shelves, and Halloween costume previews and sales have already begun online. The season is almost here!!!!!

While grocery shopping today on the chip isle I noticed "Pumpkin Seed Tortilla's" by Marie Farms. So, of course, I bought them and the chips are delicious. Tip: place the chips on a baking sheet lightly drizzled with olive oil, sprinkle a generous amount of Kraft's Five Italian Cheese on top, sprinkle two tablespoons of pepper over the cheese, and heat under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and melted (2-3 minutes). What a great Halloween side dish for a gathering this would make. 

Decorating For Fall

Since it really is close to the first day of autumn, lets talk decorations. Aside from Halloween decor, lets stick with simple ways to spice up the home for those cozy, comfortable, cool autumn days. Start the season with some simple steps using easy to find items to bring fall inside. 

• Autumn Paints-okay, I am a sucker for fall colors and a favorite paint is Benjamin Moore's Key West Ivory, Hepplewhite ivory, Pumpkin Spice, Harvest Moon, Spiced Apple Cider, and Pumpkin Mousse. Now, even though I love these colors and they are great for indoors, especially for kitchens and bathrooms, the one place I love seeing these colors throughout the year is actually on the screened-in porch and the outside decks. Now, most paint companies have similar colors, I have tried others and just found that I like the pallets offered at Ben. Moore, but this is an awesome way to bring some fall into the home and my favorite place to paint in one of these colors is definitely the kitchen.
•  Fall Colored Accessories- Decorating rooms for the season does not mean having to change the paint color or the furniture, by just changing the items on the fireplace mantle, the pillows, throws, or curtains, the home can be turned into an autumn wonderland.

1. Pillows-There are some great original fall pillows available on EBay, and of course, finding fall colored pillows on sale at major retailers is also an option.
2. Crafty items-Lots of fall crafts available throughout magazines during the season, a personal favorite is making owl, ghost or cat faces using a cleaned pumpkin and acorns, sunflower seeds, and whatever other item from the craft store on sale that is available (directions to come in a later blog). For these items, I like to place them on the fireplace because they give an extra touch of the season .
3. Autumn Leaves-Okay, clear the fireplace mantle, get two clear or same colored long bottles (wine bottles without the labels even), go outside or to the craft store, and find long twigs with lots of colored leaves, place on the mantle with an autumn scented candle in the middle, well away from the leaves or on either side of a large picture or television. This is also a great idea for tablescapes.
4. Curtains (including shower curtains) and table clothes-two items that are absolutely easy to change  and are available at every home store, in the home section of stores, and online. Paired with seasonal pillows in the living room and towels in the bathroom, the decorating is jut that simple.

• Candles-It is not fall without the smell of the season throughout the house. Candles are a seasonal essential in this home. They make perfect table toppers, mantle accessories, and can be placed in decorative holders. Two favorites, Yankee and Partylite.

So, these are a few tips on decorating, more to come along with instructions on how to, but for now, start preparing so when the time comes, all one has to do is pull out the items and go to town!!!! Happy Autumn.