Falling For Fall

Been Looking For Me?

2011-09-21T22:39:00.000-04:00

Hello there. Remember me. Yes I've been gone a long, long, long time. But I'm back and just in time to celebrate the changing of the seasons - FALL!

It's very late so I'll come back tomorrow to let you know what I plan to be doing for the autumn months. Good Night!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T11:19:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to wish everyone celebrating a wonderful, safe and Blessed Thanksgiving. I am thankful for everything - the good, the bad and the ugly. Everyday I learn a new life's lesson which helps be to become a better person.

I am thankful for my family and wonderful friends. This year was definately a year of reuniting for me. I reconnected with family, friends and classmates whom I had not seen for over 20 years. I am thankful that I was able to see that somethings that were going on in my life were not good for me and that I was able to let go and move on. I am thankful that I still have a job as many are unemployed and are trying to do their best with what they have. I am thankful for having a place to lay my head, having food on the table and for just being alive.

Today I will be spending Thanksgiving with family. Then back home to put up the Christmas tree and get ready for the Black Friday sales.

I'm trying to get over something- not sure what it is. I have not been able to talk since Tuesday night but am feeling pretty good.

This will be my last post for the year on this blog but you can check me out over at my Rudy Day and Love of Christmas blogs.

Gobble, Gobble

Scenery - Part 2

2010-11-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

Well the leaves here in ole Maryland are nearly all fallen off the trees. I will always remember this year as being the most beautiful fall I've seen in a very long time. These are just some pictures I took this season.

I wish I could have gotten more shots. There were some really beautiful areas I passed through in the last two months but of course I didn't have my camera with me.

Today Is Election Day

2010-11-02T11:42:00.000-04:00

Did you vote today? I did!

Taco Salad

2010-11-02T11:37:00.001-04:00

Sunday I wasn't in the mood for any real cooking so I decided to make taco salads. I found some Jalapeno flavored tortillas which really gave the salad a nice kick. One day I was watching a food program (can't remember the show) and the cook showed a great way to make tortilla into salad bowls. So here's what I did.

First take a tortilla and sprinkle with a little paprika.

Next, take a piece of aluminum foil and make into a ball.

On a baking sheet, place the tortilla over the ball of foil. Set oven to 400 degrees and let bake for 10 minutes.

While that's baking, I cooked my ground turkey in a skillet with onions, chili powder a little garlic salt and black pepper. Here's how my tortilla bowl turned out:

Once the meat was done, I loaded up the bowls with all our favorites:

I also like to add rice and refried beans but didn't have any in the house.

And here's the finished taco salad:

It was very good and didn't take long to make. Mmm, mmm, good.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T14:41:00.000-04:00

Have a fun and safe day everyone.

What An Autumn!

2010-10-28T20:02:00.000-04:00

I cannot remember when the last time we had such a beautiful autumn season. Here in Maryland we got to experience actual fall weather. No nice days for about a week and a half, then turning completely cold. Oh and the trees! The trees are so beautiful with the bright yellows and reds. When the sun hits a tree just right, the colors look almost neon.

I'm so glad I have the day off from work tomorrow (actually I have a doctor's appointment). While I'm out doing my Christmas shopping inbetween my appointment, I will be doing a lot of sightseeing and am taking my digital camera with me. I love the county I live in. There are so many back roads with outstanding views. Plus I think tomorrow will be the last day to see such beauty because we are expecting winds tomorrow and by the time the winds die down, many of the leaves will have fallen from the branches.

Gotta go, Scared Shrekless is on.

Temporary Change

2010-10-23T21:57:00.000-04:00

In honor of Halloween, in a week, I thought I would change the scenery on my blog. Have A Spooktacular Halloween . Whahaahaahaahaa

Tonight's Dinner

2010-10-14T20:37:00.000-04:00

It's been cold and raining all day. Oh how much I would have loved to stay home to enjoy it. But alas, I had to work.

For dinner tonight I wanted something that was both warm and filling. So I made beef and cheese foldover.

I just finished a piece and let me tell you, it was very tastey.

Scenery

2010-10-12T17:19:00.000-04:00

What a gorgeous window view. So beautiful I think I'll go outside.

Sitting outside the job, soaking up the sun, comfortable breeze and fresh air. Autumn is spreading all around me.

Favorite Fall Snack

2010-10-10T17:34:00.000-04:00

M&M's, Honey Roasted Peanuts, Candy Corns - Yum yum

All Done

2010-10-10T17:25:00.000-04:00

That's right! I have finally finished decorating outside my front door.

All the decorations I already had with the exception of the jumbo size leaves. I just changed things around a little.

(I really wish my door was either red or green.)

One Morning

2010-10-10T17:07:00.000-04:00

Every weekday at around 9:30 a.m., I always take a break and go for my morning walk (I get to work between 7 - 7:30). Sometimes I walk around the business park where I work or I will walk over to the shopping center which is directly behind my job.

Last Thursday I took a walk over to the shopping center. First I stopped in the grocery store. They have started their 10 for $10 two week sale I just grabbed a sales paper to see what all they have. I usally get breakfast items like bagels, brown n serve sausages or ready made breakfast sandwiches - just pop in the microwave and go. Next I walked into the clothing store where I bought three turtlenecks for $7.99 each. Another good deal. Lastly I ventured in to Kmart. I didn't purchase anything. Just browsed. Outside of Kmart they had all of these huge pots of georgeous mums. Oh they were so pretty and the colors, so vibrant. I just had to take a picture.

Had A Nice Day

2010-10-02T18:53:00.000-04:00

Set the alarm clock to wake me at 5 a.m. Guess what? I didn't even hear the alarm go off this morning. When I woke up it was nearly 8:30.

Despite sleeping in late, my day has been fabulous. It's a real autumn day here - lots of sunshine and cool temps. I've been in my pj's all day. I had the windows open for a while, while I did some cleaning: the bathroom, the kitchen, vacuuming, yada-yada-yada. But then I had closed them as my little palace had gotten a little too cold. I lit some candles and turned on some smooth jazz. Perfect! I also spent some time chatting with friends at MHH.

I took advantage of this cool day also to decorate outside my front door for fall. I wanted to do something different from last year, but with things I already had so I surfed the internet for inspiration. I came across this amazing website called Front Porch Ideas & More. I was able to get a lot of ideas. There were lots of really beautiful porches all done up for fall and Halloween. Oh how I wish they were my porches. (Sighing)

Anyway, my front is almost done. I want to get a few mums and maybe a few more faux pumpkins (or Fumpkins as they're called). I may take a trip to Lowes or Home Depot tomorrow. So far I have my broom swag on the door and around the door frame is a garland of fall leaves and miniature gourds/pumpkins. And my autumn door mat. To the side of the door I placed my "Welcome" pumpkin with two free-standing scarecrows on either side of it. In the corner is my little red wagon. So far all that's in it is a piece of fall material I draped over it. Next to the wagon is another free-standing scarecrow. Above the wagon, tied to the railing is my "Pumpkin Patch" sign. I plan to fill the wagon with faux pumpkins, gourds and Indian corn. Around the base of the wagon I am going to scatter lots of silk leaves and place a few mums around.

I will show you pictures when it's all done.

Chit Chat

2010-09-26T18:45:00.000-04:00

What a glorious day it has been. I woke this morning to the lovely sounds of rain. We so much needed the rain. Everthing is so desperately dry around here. The rain also cooled things down and I was able to open all the windows and just let the autumn air flow through my little palace.

And what better way to celebrate this day than with a some nice autumn comfort food - Chicken and Biscuits.

A simple recipe from Kraft Foods. It's made with cooked chicken breasts (mine's came from a can), frozen mixed vegetables, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded sharp cheese, and for the biscuits - Bisquick, more sour cream and milk. I made this for the first time last year and fell in love.

For dessert I baked peanut butter cookies.

I am going to enjoy snacking on these with a cold glass of milk while watching Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Tonight's show is a home built here in Baltimore.

Decorating

2010-09-23T15:04:00.000-04:00

For weeks I have been getting my palace ready for my favorite season: Autumn. Today I must say it doesn't feel like fall. It is hot as heck here in ole Maryland.

In decorating for Fall, I tried to do things a little different this year. For instance I bought a new shower curtain and bath towels for the bathroom. I love this new shower curtain (from Ross'). It looks so rich. I was surprised to find such a nice shower curtain. I usually buy curtain panels because most shower curtains I see do not appeal to me. I want to repaint the walls but haven't found the color I want yet.

I found this poster in Dollar Tree a few years ago. I love it in the bathroom because the colors go great with my fall decor. I recently got the frame for it in KMart. The frame was on sale at 2 for 1. I paid $10 for two of these frames. The other one is in my guest room.

In the master bedroom I bought a new comforter set. I love my new comforter. I looked for over a year for the right style, fabric, texture and color and finally found it in a store I rarely go to - Macy's. It was so funny when I saw it in the store. It was like all of a sudden everything around me went dark and it was just me and a light shining down on the comforter. I've only had the moment one other time and that was when I bought my first car. Heehee

I love having the curtains going all the way across the wall. It adds color to the room and makes the wall look taller than it is. The big plus is in winter, it blocks out the cold.

I also dressed up the mantle. I love candles. I have them everywhere in my little palace.

The fall topiaries sit on my tall dresser chests. Last year I had them on the mantle but thought they look better here. (I hate that antenna.)

In the livingroom I tried to added more color. I replaced my old and worn white lampshades with burgundy ones and bought toss pillows for the white sofa.

And of course... More candles...

I brought this table out from the guest room. I really like it here next to the chair. Plus it gave me a place to put my pumpkin arrangement. To think it was on its way to the dumpster.

The dining room has had some changes too. I got rid of the glass curio and bar that sat in the corners. I had to make room for the buffett that I'm getting from IKEA.

So that it doesn't look so empty in the corner I moved the plant stand from the foyer to display a vase filled with twigs and candles.

The dining table too soon will be replaced, however I still wanted to dress it up for the season. I even purchased some new glass goblets for the table. They are so pretty. I got them from Dollar Tree. What's more is they are not thin, flimsy glasses at all.

I won't put on the burgundy chair covers until it gets a little cooler.

My palace isn't yet quite complete. There are a few more things I need to do. So this weekend, if the weather cools down like the weather people say, I'm going to set up a display outside my front door.
I cleaned the balcony a few weekends ago and it too is ready for decorating.

HAPPY FIRST DAY OF FALL!!!

A Beautiful Day!

2010-09-19T16:13:00.000-04:00

Slept in this morning a little too long. A result from being up late the night before. So I didn't get to do my morning walk. I have all the windows open and the breeze feels so good flowing through my little palace. I'm sorry I didn't go walking because it is so beautiful outdoors. I like to get my walk in before everyone gets out on the road. Right now the nearby school's track is being redone so I walk around the neighborhood and the sound of cars disturbs my mood when I'm walking.

For dinner tonight I'm made golden crusted pork chops with green beans. And for dessert an apple pie. It's my very first time making one from scratch - crust and all.

My little palace smells yummy-yummy.

Name Change

2010-09-14T10:56:00.000-04:00

I've decided to change the name of my blog to Falling for Fall. I think it fits better than The Harvest. What do you think?

My Neighbor

2010-09-12T12:46:00.000-04:00

This morning while my boyfriend and I were taking out an old computer chest, I noticed one of my neighbors has started putting up some of their Halloween decorations. It made me smile.

I have been putting out my fall decor inside my home. After seeing my neighbor I put out my fall doormat and hung my decorated grapevine wreath on the front door. No pumpkins or scarecrows arecoming out til October 1st.

Halloween Costumes

2010-09-11T10:49:00.001-04:00

The other day I received an email from Martha Stewart.com discussing homemade Halloween costumes and it got me thinking,"What am I going to be this year for Halloween?"

Menu Planning

2010-09-09T11:27:00.002-04:00

Last year I vowed to start cooking at home more and taking lunch to work everyday. So on September 1st, I began and I loved it. I would cook meals two days a week - Sunday and Wednesday, have leftovers on Mondays and always made some kind of seafood on Fridays. Saturdays were anything goes (usually takeout), Tuesdays and Thursdays were some type of sandwich or salad.

To get ideas of meals that were quick and easy I searched the web. Boy did I find a lot of ideas. My favorite sites are Kraft Foods and Better Homes &Gardens. I also like Cooks.com, Land O Lakes and Taste of Home.

Planning meals was fun and plus it gave me a variety as opposed to always wondering what I want to eat and wound up eating the same fast foods. It was an opportunity to try dishes that I would never thought to try.

Well once the holidays arrived I fell completely off course. I tried to get back in to it the first of the year but couldn't get motivated and so I stopped. Then I tried it again in the spring. Well needless to say, it was a losing battle. Once summer came and the cookouts started, I threw up the white flag and admitted defeat. Now that the cooler temperatures are once again upon us I have made the committment to plan meals at home. So far so good. And this time I am determined not to let the holidays throw me off so I have come up with a plan. Some time in November I am going to have a mini cooking session. Once I have the menus planned for December (actually starting Thanksgiving weekend), I will purchase all the ingredients and cook my meals in advance and store them in the freezer. So all I will have to do is see what's for dinner that night and head straight to the freezer. I really want this to work so ya'll pray for me.

Well it's nearly lunchtime and today I brought in chicken salad.

A Beautiful Morning

2010-09-09T09:39:00.000-04:00

I think Fall is finally here to stay. It felt great driving in to work this morning. We could use some rain though, as it is very dry here. The weatherman says we should finally get some Sunday.

Today is a Jewish holiday, so many of the judges are off. Plus the schools in my county are closed. L'Shanah Tovah - to my jewish friends. Because it will basically be a quiet day I decided to treat my coworkers to breakfast. I brought in my George Foreman grill and made Eckrich sausages. Another coworker brought in fried potatoes. So far the morning is going along nicely. Later during my break I plan to take a short walk - soak up some of that sun and cool weather.

Also today, is my mom's 60th birthday. I have plans to take her out later - maybe somewhere to eat or shopping or both. Whatever her heart desires.

It's That Time Again!

2010-09-07T11:53:00.000-04:00

I'm back and ready for Fall. This summer has been a doozie and I for one will be glad to see it go. I'm so ready that I have started putting up my fall decorations. As I type this post I have some autumn scented candles burning. They are a new fragrance by Glade called Cashmere Woods - mmmm, delightful.

In addition to putting summer behind me, my friends and I over at MHH have started the HGP and HHP countdowns in preparation for the upcoming holidays. We're in week two. I am following the HHP focusing mostly on the holiday prep.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T12:28:00.001-05:00

Sorry I've been away. I have been so focused on Christmas plans that I didn't have time to post. I just wanted to wish everyone a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

I am spending the day with family. This year another relative offered to host so I and my mom are very happy about that. I was asked to bring a dish - crab stuffing and dinner rolls. I also made a carrot cake to take with me. I'm sitting here right now waiting for my boyfriend to wake up. He worked last night and didn't get to my house until 7 am. I was in bed early last night and woke up at 5 this morning. I want to do some decorating but I don't want to disturb him. Its hard being quiet. Haha.

Well I hope everyone enjoy their day.

See you next fall.

P.S. If you want to know what I'm doing for the holidays, just check me out over at my other blog, "Love of Christmas."

Don't Forget

2009-11-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

Change your clocks back One Hour.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T00:00:00.004-04:00

Have a Boooo-ti-ful Day!

Fall Tour of Homes 2009

2009-10-30T15:33:00.001-04:00

Cathymac has started the Fall Tour of Homes on her blog, Haunted Hamlet. Please be sure to check it out. You will get a tour of her home as well as other homes from members of MHH.

Freaky Friday!

2009-10-30T13:09:00.001-04:00

It's the day before Halloween. For those of you who will celebrate, you're probably finishing the last details for parties or putting the final touches on your costumes.

Today has become a bit crazy for me as I still have to find the remaining accessories for my costume (Closet, here I come). Then there's the cookies to bake for tomorrow's party. I also want to do something with my hair. I don't know if I want to go curly which will require sitting under the hair dryer for a couple of hours or wear it straight. Not to mention my nails need to be done.

I'm sitting in my office all alone. Noone is here today. I like days like this because usually I can get a lot done. Earlier when I arrived it was pitch black and I was a little freaked out. See last weekend my best friend and her husband were telling me about the movie they went to see called "Paranormal Activity". Supposedly it's based on a true story. Anyway, I have a vivid imagination so when they were telling me the story, I was able to picture the scenes and that got me a little scared. I'm not a big fan of scary movies (Always been that way). Later that night I was scared to close my eyes in bed and I was sleepy as H---. My boyfriend laughs at me. Give me something like "A Charlie Brown Halloween" to watch and I'm good. Hahaha!

OMG! My boss just came in. He was supposed to be out in a meeting all day today. Oh well there goes my peace.

Squirrels

2009-10-28T15:09:00.001-04:00

I have a funny story to share.

Yesterday I had plans to spend the evening in with my boyfriend watching movies and snacking on popcorn and maybe drink a beer or two. I finally made it home after stoping for the movies, popcorn and icecream (Icecream was a last minute decision). I was sitting in the diningroom when all of a sudden I heard a noise coming from my kitchen. At first I thought is was a mouse but then I though the noise was louder than normal and a mouse doesn't make that much of a fuss. I got scared and jumped up. As I did I saw a large. gray object jump down from my stove. It was a freakin squirrel. I was petrified. I ran downstairs to my neighbors and asked to use her phone to call maintenance. Lucikly my neighbors son was home and he went to check out what was in my apartment. Sure enough, a squirrel. My neighbor's son said when he entered my apartment, the squirrel was sitting by the patio door but ran when it saw him. So he opened the patio door and moments later the squirrel ran out. Now let me just say that I live on the third (top) level of my apartment building. So how he left my balcony is anyone's guess.

I was still downstairs with my neighbor when her son came back. He told me that the squirrel was gone but left a message that it would be back. All I could do was laugh. The messed up part is maintenance never showed up. First thing this morning I called the renatl office. The manager said that it would be done today. I had asked them to close up that hole behind my stove weeks ago and they had yet to comply.

I can laugh now but I was scared to death because I know that when squirrels feel they are in danger, they can bite. I could have been in bed sleep with a freakin squirrel roaming about. Needless to say I was no longer in the mood for watching movies. I told my boyfriend about it when he got there and all he could do was laugh. He said it's because it's getting chilly, they are looking for a warm place. My question is how in the H--- the squirel got into the walls of the building in the first place?

HGP Week 9 - The Pantry

2009-10-28T14:27:00.000-04:00

This week OC and MHH focuses on the pantry. This is a free week for me as my pantry consists of only a couple of kitchen cabinets. While cleaning out the kitchen last week I took care of my canned and other dry goods.

Saturday is Halloween and I've been asked to make some cookies for the party my best friend and her husband are having. I will make sugar cookie cutouts and Oreo Balls. Today after work I need to stop at the grocery store to pick up a couple packs of oreo sandwich cookies and cream cheese. I already have plenty of chocolate for dipping the oreos.

HGP Week 8 - Kitchen

2009-10-22T10:15:00.000-04:00

This week is Kitchen Week at OC and MHH. I pulled everything from my cabinets. First I threw out all expired ingredients then added them to my shopping list. Had a lot of mis-matched dishes and dish sets that I was no longer using so I gave them either to a family member or out in the trash they went. Now I have plenty of space which is great because my kitchen is small and space is limited.

I took all the summer kitchen towels, potholders and dishcloths, washed and put them away. Then I removed the kitchen rugs and threw them out. I had them for quite a while. They were old and a little raggedy. Will have to buy new ones next spring. Next I gave the floor a good cleaning.

The fridge and freezer had been cleaned out months ago. Each week when I cook Sunday dinner I make a large amount then take half and put into the freezer to have during the month of December. It will get extremely busy and I will not have time to prepare any meals.

This weekend I will wipe down the walls. I'd really like to get my kitchen painted again.

Fun Pumpkin Project!

2009-10-20T11:38:00.001-04:00

A few years ago I joined BHG.com's email list. Starting sometime in the fall, I get an email everyday from BHG about their "100 Days of Holidays" countdown. There's all kinds of neat ideas for puting together parties, gifts ideas, handmade crafts, and food recipes. There is this one project that I think anyone who truly loves animals would enjoy doing - pumpking carving patterns for dogs. Click here to see.

Holiday Magical Homes - Fall Tour Of Homes 2009

2009-10-16T09:25:00.001-04:00

Welcome to my little home!

Come on in! I love when people come to visit.

Step into my foyer/hall. Can I hang up your jacket?

Make yourself cozy. Come on in to the livingroom.

Would you like to watch the Ravens game with me while I get lunch ready?

(The tv is hidding in the armoire.)

See these candle holders?

I bought them from Dollar Tree several years ago and I kid you not when i say that I just noticed that they have Halloween figures on them. Heehee.

Would you like to freshen up before lunch.

Lunch is ready. Shall we move to the dining room? Today's menu, "Surf & Turf Burgers w/spicy caramelized mayo and onion rings". Yumm, yumm

(Please have a seat)

I love these little salad plates. I bought them from Walmart several years ago (set of 4). Each plate is a different color (cream, green, burgundy, brown). The dinner plates are also from Walmart.

(Each plate is sitting on gold chargers which I embellished by hotgluing silk leaves around the border. I also embellished the napkin holders by gluing pieces of faux berries to it.)

Like the little tealight holders. I found them at Target in the $1 Spot section about two or three years ago. These are so cute.

I am so glad you came to visit me. We should do this again. Maybe at your place next time.

I had so much fun today. Boy I'm pooped. I think I'll get ready for bed.

(I love my little mantle)

I hope you enjoyed visiting with me today. Bye Bye.

P.S. Click here to see my balcony.

HGP Week Seven - Guest Room

2009-10-14T14:00:00.000-04:00

I have been having a time with this room (Been working on this room for weeks).

I am telling you the truth when I say it is a complete disaster. When I first moved into my apartment (10 yrs ago) I only had 2 nephews (ages 7 & 8) and 1 niece (age 11) with 2nd niece on the way (There's a total of 6 now). I had the room done so nicely for them. They had bunk beds (twin with full on bottom) with matching bedding, and everything a child could have in there. I had even stenciled a nice border around the room. That's how much time they spent with me (every weekend and vacation).

Then I got rid of the bunkbeds when they became teens and just had a full size bed in there. They weren't visiting as much (You know how teens get LOL) and the room was still pretty nice. Then I sold the bed last year and that's when my problem began.

(Mind you this closet only house my summer attire.

My winter closets look way better)

I have managed to get some cleaning done so the room does look a little better. (Will post pics when room is completely finished)

Cleaned windows
Replaced summer curtains with winter curtains
Hung fall wreaths in windows with electric candles
Organized closet (went through summer wardrobe and shoes)
Donated old printer and barely used scanner to Salvation Army
Started washing large bags of laundry
Sorted through and shredded paper piles

Still to do:

Finish laundry
Finish laundry
Finish laundry

I have way too many pieces of clothing. Then there's bedding, bath and kitchen linens...

After the holidays I want to get rid of the mismatch furniture and make the room into a kind of lounge/guest room.

HGP Week Six - Kid's Rooms

2009-10-05T10:34:00.002-04:00

Week six brings us to the kids rooms. For me this is a free week as I am kid-free. Then again it's not really free. There are things that I can do like tackle the laundry. You would not believe the bags of laundry I have accumulated - and it's just me, no one else. I have way too many clothes! Not only are there clothes, but bed sheets, bath and kitchen linens. Then I recently took the summer chair covers off my dining chairs and removed the summer curtains from the windows. With that being said I have made it a goal to get every last bit of laundry done by the end of this week.

This week I plan to take more pictures of my fall decorations for the Fall Tour of Homes. The tour starts next week (the 16th). I have a bit a fall everywhere - before you enter my home, all the way to the balcony area.

26 Days To Halloween. Will You Be Ready?

2009-10-05T09:28:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I attended a surprise birthday party. My bestfriend's daughter had Casino night for her boyfriend to celebrate his 22nd birthday. It was a nice turnout.

My bestfriend and her husband love Halloween. They host a party every year and each year gets better and better. About two weeks ago my best friend told me that they had started putting up their deocrations. Here's what they did outside:

I can't wait for the Halloween party. I wanted to dress up as a swamp lady but never got around to making my costume. So I will have to purchase one.

Extra, Extra!

2009-09-28T12:57:00.001-04:00

For the second year, Magical Holiday Home will do another "Virtual Fall Tour of Homes", hosted by the lovely Cathymac. Here we show off our beautiful Fall and Halloween decorations. For more information check here. The showing starts October 16th so you have plenty of time.

You don't have to be a member of MHH to participate (though you're always welcome to join our forum). So come on! Show us your best decor or stop by and take a peak at what others have done for the season. You may find some wonderful ideas you would like to try yourself.

As Promised....

2009-09-28T12:34:00.000-04:00

A few pictures of my balcony.

BEFORE

AFTER

My little bistro set.

(If you look closely you can see my neighbors house through the trees)

A closer look.

(Oh ignore the bucket under the table Hahaha)

I like to keep a cooler out here for when guests come over and we're sitting on the balcony. Easy access to beverages. Got the cushions last year at WalMart. The wreath hanging above is a grapevine wreath that I wrapped with fall print ribbon and added a large floral pick (all items from Dollar Tree).

I draped faux leaf garland and orange lights across the railing and hanging above are my candle chandaliers. There's also a pair of smaller grapevine wreaths hanging on the outside of the railing.

My best friend found these potted arrangements at a yard sale last year and gave me two after much begging. For 8 she paid $2.00. Also in this corner is where my floor lamp stands but I broke it cleaning so I have to purchase a new one. Clumsy me!

Let me tell you I spent several hours on this balcony. It was so dirty (yuck). I swept the outdoor rug what seemed like for days. Plus there was what looked like the start of a behive above the window that I had to knock down. In the ten years I've lived here, I have never seen a behive on my balcony. Then there were these brown and green beetle looking bugs crawling on the wall. I tell you I can't wait for it to get cool.

Anyways, after all is said and done my balcony looks great. I'm thinking about dressing up the balcony with some outdoor curtains. Maybe, just on the far ends.

Week Five - Master Bathroom/Linen Closet

2009-09-28T11:32:00.000-04:00

This week it's time to get that bathroom in order.

Not to toot my own horn but I took care of my bathroom a few weeks ago. I was antsy to get my fall-color bath towels and shower curtains up that I couldn't hold off any longer. This weekend I gave the tub, toilet and sink it's weekly deep cleaning. I also wipe them down regularly during the week. Then I swept and moped the floor. Shook the bathroom rugs and placed them back on the floor.

Today I will stop by the rental office and notify them that the tiles have once again come loose from the floor. This is the second time the tiles have come loose. I really would like a new floor. I hate all those little tiles. They are a big pain.

As for the linen closet the only part that needs organization is the floor area. I have 6 small crates lined across the floor (purchased from Dollar Tree) which holds everything from cleaning stuff for the bathroom and kitchen to laundry detergent. Lately when I go to put stuff back I just drop them anywhere. So the floor looks messy.

Week Four HGP - Master Bedroom

2009-09-25T10:26:00.000-04:00

The year is quickly going by. Can you believe September is almost over and next week October begins? I've been working my little heart out getting ready for the holidays.

All week long I have been working on the Master Bedroom as part of the Holiday Grand Plan countdown.

[x]clean windows
[ ]set up electric candles in windows (Oct. 1st)
[x ]take down summer curtains wash and put away; put up new curtains
[x] vacuum carpet
[x] polish furniture
[x] wipe down baseboards
[x] organized closets
[x] put heavier linen on bed
[x] clear paper pile off bench at foot of bed
[x] throw out fireplace screen
[x] purchase fall-tone candles
[x] dry-clean faux mink throw blanket

Last week I purchased several panels found on sale at KMart. I hung them higher up on the wall, covering the entire width of the wall/windows. They are burgundy (looks like linen) and a little heavy which will help block out the cold. Then underneath those panels I hung gold sheers. Because I live in an apartment I'm not allowed to paint (Well I can but I'd have to change it back if I move, and I'm lazy so...). Hanging the panels this way gives the look of a painted wall.

My bedroom looks so romantic. I look forward to coming home after work and walking into that room.

You know I had to add some touches of fall. I have autumn-tone candles displayed all around the room, faux leaf garland draped over the mantle and a little pumpkin on the dresser. I was thinking of draping leaf garland from the curtains, but I'm not sure. I don't want to go overboard and the rooms starts looking too busy. I'd never get any sleep LOL!

Happy Autumn!

2009-09-22T17:18:00.000-04:00

In 3 minutes Fall is officially here (5:19). Unfortunaty here in Maryland it is hot. Well I have some things to do but I will be back tomorrow.

Week Three of HGP

2009-09-14T12:44:00.001-04:00

This week is the Entry/Foyer. My foyer is pretty small and I had worked on it back in August so it's in pretty good shape. On Sunday I just had to sweep and mop the floor and shake out the small rug. Then I put up my fall decorations. I also decorated my living room. Things are looking pretty good. I promise this week I am going to post pictures.

Not everyone at MHH has a foyer so they are taking this week to work on other areas of the home or plan holiday events, do crafting and such. That's what I like about this group, you can work at your own pace. Make the plan in a way that suits your needs.

A Beautiful Day

2009-09-11T14:13:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to show you a picture of a beautiful day.

(That building you see is Kmart. My office is right behind it.)

On Thursday I was walking back to my job from the shopping center (I was on my break) when I looked up and noticed how pretty the sky was looking. It was a cool mid-morning, fall-feeling day. Then I remembered I had my G1 phone in my pocket. So I pulled it out and took a picture of the pretty sky.

HGP Week Two - Livingroom/Question

2009-09-11T09:59:00.001-04:00

The week is nearly over and I have totally neglected cleaning my livingroom. Plus I still need to post pictures of my balcony (before & after). Fortunately I don't have a lot to do because I started early in August.

Okay, so here's my plan for the next two days:

vacuum carpet
vacuum sofa and chairs
polish furniture
clean patio doors/windows (inside)
put up fall decorations

It's been raining since late last night and the weather has been a little blistery since Thursday afternoon. This kind of weather keeps me indoors so I know I will be able to get the livingroom done. All I have to do is turn on some smooth jazz and I'm all set.

2009-09-11T09:41:00.000-04:00

Today marks the 8th anniversary of the hits on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C, and the plane (United Flight 93) that crashed in Pennsylvania. In Honor of those precious lives lost, and those who were there helping, risking their lives to save others, I pay tribute.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

Week One: Front Porch

2009-08-30T22:29:00.000-04:00

Today kicks off an 18 week plan for a cleaner, more organized home by the holidays. This week we at Magical Holiday Home tackle the front porch. I don't have a porch so I am cleaning my balcony.

Sweep outdoor carpet
Wipe down patio furniture
Wipe down railing
Clean outside patio windows/doors
Throw out old grill

My balcony will be ready just in time for Fall. I can't wait to put up my fall decor.

I love sitting on my balcony. Especially in the morning as the sun is rising. I sit out there some mornings drinking a big cup of hot chocolate, watching the beautiful color leaves on the trees. It's really a beautiful site.

I'l be checking in later this week with my progress. I also will be taking before and after pics. So stay tuned.

Seasonal Cleaning

2009-08-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

At Organized Home, CEO discusses ways in which to get your home ready for Fall and the upcoming holidays.

Okay, Who's Ready for Fall?

2009-08-27T12:06:00.000-04:00

I am sooo ready for Fall. The weather here has been extremely hot the last couple of weeks. Temps have just begun going down this week (Thanks Hurricane Bill).

I have been cleaning my apartment like there's no tomorrow. Now I am ready to pull out the fall totes and decorate. My friends are gearing up for the HHP and HGP countdowns, which starts this weekend. I started a couple of weeks early. I just couldn't wait. (Heeheehee)

So far I've gone through my coat closet, threw out old coats and got together others that need to go to the cleaners. I went through my summer closet (in the guest bedroom) and threw out tons of summer shoes. In the bathroom I removed the summer shower curtain and rugs, washed and put them away. All that's in there is a clear shower liner. I even went through my many handbags and threw out what I no longer wanted. One Sunday I spent several hours shredding a shopping bag full of papers. I could not believe I was still holding on to paystubs and bank statements from 1994 to 2008. I filled two kitchen size trash bags. The worst part is I still have another shopping bag to shred.

I spent a little time cleaning off my balcony too. There's trees directly behind my building and the dirt, pollen and leaves were just everywhere. It's going to need one more good cleaning before I put my fall decor out there. My coworker has a brother in the moving and hauling business. I have some furniture in the guest bedroom that I plan to get rid of.

Although there's still a bit more to do, I feel that I've accomplished quite a lot so far. Will check in again soon.

Autumn

2009-07-21T15:01:00.007-04:00

A few days ago I was sitting on my bed thinking about Fall. You read right, FALL. It is my most absolute favorite season of the four. So while sitting on the bed I began thinking of pj's, warm comfort foods, etc. and started making a list in my little notebook.

Then yesterday I was reading topics over at Magical Holiday Home when I saw where they were discussing starting an Autumn notebook. I was glad to see that I wasn't the only one thinking ahead.

The Autumn Notebook Challenge begins September 1st. If you love autumn then this challenge may be just for you.

Counting Down To Thanksgiving

2008-11-24T10:32:00.007-05:00

I can't believe it's three days to Thanksgiving. I have been very busy. Last week I was able to go to the grocery store and purchase everything to cook my Turkey feast. I'm going to my parents for Thanksgiving but I still like to cook at home.

Sunday I started prepping. First I thoroughly washed the collard and kale greens. I like to cook both (something I learned from my grandmother). While the greens were soaking, I cut up the potatoes for the potato salad and the sweet potatoes. Next I chopped onions, celery and green peppers to have ready to go into their assigned dishes. I even baked a cream cheese pound cake for dessert. After the greens soaked a few hours I cut them up and put in the crock pot. I love using the crock pot. I always cook my vegetables in it when preparing a large meal. It frees up space on the stove, plus you can tend to other things while the crock pot basically takes care of the vegetables for you.

Tonight I hope to start my crab stuffing and sauerkraut. When my grandmother used to cook, she'd put pigtails in her sauerkraut. I like to use salted pork or fat back as I call it. I started making crab stuffing a few Christmases ago and haven't looked back. The first time I made it I also made the traditional sausage/sage stuffing which no one wanted after trying the crab stuffing.

Here's how I make it:

1 bx corn muffin mix
4-8 tablespoons butter
1 lb crab meat
1 cup finely chopped celery
2 cups of chopped onions
dried parsley (if you use fresh parsley it's 1/4 - 1/2 cup; minced)
1 tablespoon sage
1 tablespoon thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning (optional)
1 cup chicken stock (I like to use the stock from the turkey)
2 large eggs, well beaten (optional)

Prepare mix then bake in oven according to instructions on box .

Meanwhile in a skillet melt butter, add celery and onions and sautee until tender. Remove from heat and stir in the spices.

Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Add drained crab meat. Toss well until the stuffing is moist, but not packed together.

Stir in the stock and eggs, re-moisten and adjust spices as necessary.

Cooked in casserole dish at 350 until heated through with a crust on the outsides, 25 to 40 min.

I like to stuff my turkey with the dressing at least a 1/2 hour - 45 min before it's time for the turkey to be removed from the oven so that the stuffing gets some of the juices which really makes it taste 'o so good.

Week One of Thanksgiving Countdown

2008-11-07T09:39:00.004-05:00

Here's what we did for the first week which was from Nov. 2nd to Nov. 5th:

1. Make the promise. Promise to spend 15 minutes each day to get organized for the big event. DONE

2. Set up a notebook or a section in your notebook to help organize. Remember to add some blank pages for notes and records. DONE

3. Create or print lists that might be needed. For example: Guest list, food list, budget party planner, etc. DONE

4. Review party planner pages and begin thinking about the menu. DONE

5. Print the home spruce-up worksheet and complete it. Examine the area of the gathering. What are some things that need to be spruced up before the event? I'm not hosting this year so there's no sprucing up for me to do.

6. Will you host overnight guests? If so add “get guest room ready” to your list. Create a pamper basket for the guest room. Not hosting any guests

7. Stock up on batteries for cameras and video recorders. DONE

House Prep – Cooking Space.

Also each week there's a neat project to do if you wish. For this week it is a tin can turkey. Isn't he the cutest. I made one to take to my parents house. Everyone will write what they are thankful for and place in the turkey. Then after dinner we'll gather around and read each one. It should be really nice.

So Busy!

2008-11-07T09:39:00.000-05:00

Well for me the holidays are in full swing. Over at Magical Holiday Home we've started the countdown to Thanksgiving. I love the countdowns because they really keep me focused. I'm not hosting Thanksgiving this year but will still cook at home.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T14:09:00.001-04:00

Happy Ghouls Day to everyone. I for one am excited. I'm going to a Halloween party tonight and it's gonna be a blast. My best friend and her husband have been working hard with the decorations and food prep for the last few weeks. She told me that the planner I gave her has been a big help.

As for my costume, I had to come up with a quick solution as I never got around to completing my original costume idea (I wanted to go as a swamp woman). So last night I went straight home and headed right to the closets. I found my wig from a 70's party I went to a few years ago and spiffed it up. Then I went to the drawers and pulled out a cute printed chemise. It's brown but has a really neat retro-like print all over it. Then back to the closets where I pulled out a pair of boots and my faux fur coat. I found a really big pair of hoop earrings in the jewelry box, a pair of thick tights to keep my legs warm and some really crazy looking eyelashes that I bought one year for a vampire costume but forgot I had them.

Today when I get off I have to get home quickly to get ready. One of my nieces wants to go trick or treating before we go to the party. I told her we'll see. Well I have a little over an hour before I'm off the clock so I better finish this work on my desk. I'll let you know how the party was on Monday. Have a safe Halloween!

It's Fall at the Office

2008-10-10T09:59:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week I finally got a chance to decorate the board behind my desk. Fall is definitely here in merry ole' Maryland. The trees are really starting to change to beautiful colors. I think by next weekend they will be at their peek and I've already planned to have a fun-filled weekend. Next Saturday, I will pick up my nieces and nephews early in the morning and take them to breakfast. Then later that day I'm taking the younger ones to a birthday party and will treat the older ones to the movies at the nearby mall. Then we'll all get back together head home, order pizza or whatever they're in the mood for and watch movies. Sunday will be all mine! I hope the weather is nice as I would like to take a drive along the back winding roads to get a closer look at the pretty trees, see the horses, cows and buffalo graze in the grasses all while listening to some contemporary jazz. Yep I said buffalo. There's a man who actually has buffalo. One year they somehow escaped and were spotted on a nearby tennis court (imagine the mess they made). It made national news on the Today Show. I'll also stop and buy some fresh strawberries from the local farmer who sets up his truck on one of my favorite roads to travel. Then I'll stop for some icecream, head home and have dinner, the just relax the rest of the evening.

This Sunday is my Harvest Breakfast. I'm very excited. So Saturday, before I go to work at my parttime job, I will go to the grocery store to pick up all the ingredients. After work I'll go home and start prepping - peel and cut potatoes, wash fruit, set the table, etc. I can't wait to see everyone. Now that I think of it I haven't seen or talked to anyone in weeks. I guess everyone's been busy - including me. I picked a good weekend to have this breakfast. The day is expected to be beautiful and we're off Monday for Columbus Day so we can hang out all day. I know someone's going to suggest that we go someplace after breakfast which will keep me out til the middle of the night.

Update on Fall Prep

2008-10-02T14:41:00.000-04:00

I'm still cleaning for the Holiday Grand Plan. This week is the bathroom. My bathroom is small but boy was it a chore. It really looks good now. Last week was the master bedroom. I only managed to finish 3/4th of things on my list for this area but it looks pretty neat. I'll go back to this room during one of my free weeks. Right now I'm more concerned about getting the main areas finished.

My potted mums - well one in particular - doesn't seem to be doing so well. I have two of them on my balcony. The yellow one is blooming beautifully while the orange/red one looks as if it's drying up. I was wondering if it was due to the weather. It's nice and warm during the day but it gets really chilly at night. They are outdoor plants so they should be used to the change in temperatures, right!? I hope it gets better.

Moving on, my apartment is nearly overflowing with fall decor. Later this month MHH members will participate in a Fall tour of homes. The date is set for October 16th. I still have to do the guest room, dining room, and kitchen but I'll be ready. I have my curtains hung in the living room and they look great. They really add color and warmth to the room. I'll post pictures here on the 15th.

This weekend I'm going to my best friend's house as she and her husband will start putting up their Halloween decorations outside. I'm just as excited as they are. I can't wait to see what all they have. This is also the second week of the Halloween Countdown. I need to check with her to see what progress she's made. Plus I need to get ready for my Harvest Breakfast. So much to do.

HGP - Week Four

2008-09-22T14:46:00.001-04:00

This week the HGP focuses on the master bedroom. I have half of the cleaning part done.

Halloween

2008-09-22T14:26:00.000-04:00

September 21st kicked off the Halloween Countdown over at MHH. It's a great plan for getting ready for the holiday and any festivities you are planning. I've never hosted a Halloween party. I leave that to my bestfriend and her husband. I did make her a notebook to help them keep things organized and offered my assistance if they need me. My BFF is pumped. She and her husband cleaned their house from top to bottom and already have their fall decorations up. The house looks so warm and welcoming. I bought her a Halloween countdown calendar from Avon I new she would like. When I gave it to her, she immediately hung it on her kitchen door. Plans to decorate will start the first weekend in October.

The first week of the countdown basically has you setting up a notebook. Fortunately, her book is done -- she's off to a good start.

Happy Fall!!!

2008-09-22T13:40:00.000-04:00

Hey today is the first day of Autumn. Can you believe it? I'm for one am psyched. I'm looking forward to spending more time indoors and just snuggling up. I've started putting up my fall decorations. So far the porch, half of the living room, and the foyer are done. I hung up my newly crafted broom on the front door and put out the doormat. Once I finish the living room and set up my wagon outside the front door those areas will be finished. I also hung up my newly purchased curtains at the patio door. Boy do they darken the room. I'm going to love laying across the sofa with just candles burning and dimmed lights, watching a movie, or listening to music or reading a book.

Sunday I took my nieces and nephews to a farm to pick apples. It was Johnny Appleseed Day. They had a blast. In addition to picking apples, there were lots of arts and crafts, games and a huge slide. The kids were good and tired by the day's end. Off to sleep they went almost immediately once they got into the car. One minute they were pumped talking about all they did, next minute -- silence. It was a nice drive home. Next month we're planning a trip the pumpkin patch.

HGP Week Three

2008-09-19T10:40:00.001-04:00

We're near the end of week three of the HGP countdown. This week focuses on the foyer (or whatever area you choose). My foyer is small so I was able to finish most of it in a day. The only part that still needs doing is the coat closet.

I've got a lot on my plate this weekend... hope that I can get most of it done. Besides the coat closet and moving furniture, I want to start decorating all finished areas: balcony, livingroom, foyer, front door. Actually the balcony has had fall decor since the week it was cleaned. I just need to add the garland/lights to the railings and hang the candle chandaliers. The mums I bought a few weeks ago are starting to bloom. The yellow ones seem to be blooming faster that the red ones, though. Can't figure that out.

Not As Planned

2008-09-19T10:29:00.000-04:00

Still haven't finished the livingroom... And I didn't get around to the Halloween invitations. I'll make an attempt on the cards at the end of September. Ike did not bring the rain as the weatherman predicted. Instead we got a bunch of heat the entire weekend. It was so hot that I wasn't in the mood for tackling that livingroom. I really need to finish it though. Now that it's feeling like fall, I'm anxious to hang up my curtains. Can't wait to see them hanging up at the patio doors.

Great Pumkin Day

2008-09-12T11:55:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is the first part of GPD for this month (the date is also celebrated at the end of each month). Now that I think about it, this is the last month as next month is Halloween. I have made some changes to my plans for decorating for fall so I will spend a little time making revisions. Then I'll start working on the invitations for my best friends Halloween party. Also I want to go over my plans for my Harvest Breakfast gathering. Ike's bringing us rain this weekend which will keep me in the house so I'll definitely get some work done.

I'm So Happy

2008-09-11T13:41:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'm giddy. I found some curtains last night for my livingroom! My bestfriend and I met after work and went to the Walmart near her house. They're not the faux silk ones (which is what I really wanted), but the next best thing - Taffeta. I found some faux silk panels but in every fall color but cranberry/burgundy. No bother, the taffeta panels are nice too and look so rich. Plus they were only $10.88 per panel (the silk ones were a bit more). I can't wait to hang them up. We're supposed to get a lot of rain starting Friday and Saturday is expected to be washed out as well. So I'll take this as an opportunity to finish my livingroom. The only things left to do are vacuum/shampoo the sofa/chairs and carpet and rearrange the furniture. I'm really rearranging my furniture to make room for my Christmas tree.(LOL) Anyway I'm very excited. Once the furniture and carpet dries I think I will start putting up a few fall decorations in that room. I especially am looking forward to displaying my "Harvest" sign. I plan to dress it up a little with little pumpkins, silk leaves and miniature scarecrow.

Harvest Breakfast

2008-09-09T12:49:00.000-04:00

Well I finished the invitations for the Harvest Breakfast.
They will go out in the mail on the 26th.

I used brown scrap-booking paper for the larger square, light green (like a yellow-green) color paper for the middle square and ivory card stock to print the information on for the smaller square. These were so easy to do and best part is I already had the materials, including the leaves. My guests are going to get a kick out of these.

One problem - they don't quite fit in the envelopes. I have the greeting card envelopes but the leaves stick out. I hate to have to bend the leaves...may mess up the look. I may have to make some envelopes. Oh well, time to pull out the American Greetings crafts cd's.

Just looked out my boss's window, it's raining. I'm supposed to work my second job tonight but I'm going home. I'll go in tomorrow. Besides, I'm super tired. I'm going home and go to bed.

Fall Crafts

2008-09-08T12:26:00.000-04:00

A few posts ago, you may remember me mentioning some projects I hoped to finish before the HGP countdown started. Well needless to say that didn't happen. So what I did was if time permitted, do a couple of projects along with the cleaning. I'm happy to tell you that I have completed all but three projects. Here's the latest.

Broom Swag

Broom Swag (closer look)

Grapevine Wreath

I'm so proud of my self. The broom will hang on my front door. I've decided to go with the deep green paper to put on the front door. I think the broom will look nice against a green background. I made four wreaths to hang in the bedroom windows. The wreaths are small but will look nice and will be seen with the help of electric candles.

I didn't get to start the invitations. My best friend called to say she was making chili, except when I got there she had changed her mind and instead her cousin fried some party wings, made Spanish rice and collard greens. It was great but my mouth sure was set for some chili. For desert the kids made cupcakes.

In addition to the invitations, there's the centerpiece and wreath for the office to make. Then I'm done with any fall craft projects. Let's hope.

HGP - Week Two

2008-09-08T11:22:00.000-04:00

Over at MHH we're into the second week of the Holiday Grand Plan countdown. This week focuses on the livingroom and answering questions about traditions and the way we celebrate Christmas. So when I got up this morning I went and sat out on the balcony to look over my list of 'to dos'. I love my balcony, especially now that it's clean. Those flower pots are still sitting on my balcony waiting to be taken to the dumpster. I even put out a few fall decorations.

Back to the livingroom. So far I've polished all of the furniture, cleaned the inside of the patio doors/windows (they were dirtier on the inside than on the outside - go figure), took down summer decorations(didn't have a lot really) and made space for my fall stuff to go up by clearing of shelves and tables. I've decided to change my livingroom around but didn't feel like doing it Sunday and I won't be able to get to it until the upcoming weekend. Plus I still need to clean the sofa and chairs. They are white and I have to clean them at least twice a year. Hopefully around the first of the new year I can get a new set.

More Shopping

2008-09-05T13:12:00.000-04:00

After work I went to my favorite two places - Walmart and Dollar Tree - and to a party store. I picked up a pumpkin spice 3-wick candle for the living room, a jar scented candle for the office, a couple of autumn fragrance room air fresheners that you plug into the wall, more faux Indian corn, cushions for the patio chairs, and a couple pots of mums. I grabbed a few bags of my favorite fall mix (peanuts, m&m's and candy corn) but put them back. They would be gone in less than a day if I bought them now. I'll just wait until the end of September - first of October. There were folks already buying their Halloween candy. Walmart had an entire isle (both sides) of nothing but bags/containers of Halloween candy. Dollar Tree also had lots of Halloween candy.

At the party supply store I picked up some pretty leaf print plastic cups and napkins for the breakfast gathering. I asked the manager of the store if they would be getting in any fall print wrapping paper but they don't sell it. The lady did give me a great idea though. She suggested using a fall print table cover. That is a great idea! I have a huge poster board behind my desk at the office I plan to decorate for fall. I keep changing my mind on how to decorate it. I'll have a finalized plan by the time I decorate it.

Really Feelling Good

2008-09-05T12:17:00.001-04:00

Since yesterday I've been feeling really good. I spent a couple of hours in Walmart yesterday just walking around looking at everything. While there this warm feeling came over me and I began to smile. All types of thoughts went through my mind. I thought how nice and cozy my little place is going to feel once it's cleaned from top to bottom. Wearing my jeans, turtleneck sweaters and boots. Taking my nieces and nephews out to pick apples, run through the corn maze, going on a haunted hayride - such fun. Being home cooking hearty meals, baking sweets, and so on. In the car on the way home I was listening to Sirius 8 satellite radio station (Big 80's)just singing along and looking at the mounds of trees. I thought, "Soon these trees will be so full of color. I can't wait to see them." That made me even happier.

Shopping Excursion

2008-09-04T14:42:00.000-04:00

I don't have to work my second job tonight so later today I'm heading to Walmart and Dollar Tree. I had plan to go yesterday but instead I went to my second job. It pays double time when you work on your off days and the extra money will come in handy.

I want to get those cushions for the chairs on my balcony. They have the fall colors - pumpkin, green, and cranberry. I also will be looking for a flag to hang on the dividing wall and maybe a nice fall sign. Because I sit out there a lot I'm going to also put a small lamp on a table to use at night. I was in a Dollar Tree briefly and they had a whole isle of Halloween stuff. A person could clean up in there on decorations and party supplies. I couldn't really look around to see if the Halloween candy was out. I called my bestfriend to tell her to get there quick because very soon people are going to hit those shelves. During the fall I love to eat a mixture of honey roasted peanuts, candy corn and m&m chocolate candies - yummmy! I keep a jar on my desk at work for my co-workers too. They love it.

I've been looking for some faux silk curtains for my bedroom and livingroom. I've been to Bed, Bath and Beyond, Target, K-Mart and Walmart. It's wearing me out. Either the price is a bit too high or they don't have the color I want or if they do have the color, there may be one or two panels - I need five for the livingroom. I won't even waste my time looking in a department store because I know I'm not paying those prices. I really like the look of those faux silk curtains. I hope I find them soon.

Fall's Almost Here

2008-09-04T13:38:00.000-04:00

In 18 days Fall will be here. Right now it's not feeling too much like it. The heat has come back - yuck!. I'm sooo ready for the slightly warm sunny days and cool, crisp nights. I've been looking at the trees and many of them are beginning to change. Over at Magical Holiday Home we were talking about what we love about the season. Here was my response:

"...I love the colors that fall brings. Something about the colors really awakens something in me. I get energized and just want to do all kinds of things - from cooking to cleaning, spending time with family and friends to spending quite time alone. I love the rustling sounds of the leaves under my feet, the smell of the neighbors fireplaces in the air, cozying up on the sofa with soft light while scented candles fill the rooms of pumpkin, apples and cinnamon and other spices. I love to drive through the neighborhoods in the morning on my way to work and look at the big beautiful old trees and the vibrant fall colors of the leaves...the people out there raking them up on a Saturday afternoon... stuffing them in pumpkin trash bags. I love to get up in the morning and sit out on my balcony with a cup of hot chocolate and just listen to the birds sing their final tunes or watch the squirrls gather their food before going into hibernation for the winter months and watching flocks of geese flying overhead heading to warmer climates. All these things and everything you ladies have mentioned are what makes me fall in love with fall."

Aaahh! I just love this time of year. (gjggling)

What a Workout!

2008-09-02T08:59:00.001-04:00

Sunday started the HGP over at OC and MHH and let me tell you I put in some work. This week we were to get our porches in order. I live in an apartment so my balcony was my porch.

I swept all the leaves and dust off the outdoor carpet as well as knocked down all the spider webs
Wiped down the railing and dividing wall which seperates my balcony from my neighbor's. We just got them over the last two years and they are great. They're made of that hard resin like you see in people's yards as fences. Very easy to clean.
Then I wiped down the patio table and chairs. Boy were they dirty. I have trees right outside my balcony... you can almost touch the branches. So everything- pollen, dirt, leaves, pineneedles fall on my balcony.
Next I cleaned the patio doors/windows. Surprisingly they weren't that dirty. I also wiped the screen. Now that was filthy. I couldn't believe how much dirt came out of that screen. Now I can see through it. (LOL)

The only thing I didn't do was throw out those flower pots. By the time I finished cleaning, I was too tired to tackle them. I have two and they are filled with old potting soil. They are extremely heavy and I was not in the mood for taking them down three flights of steps. I think I will get my boyfriend to take those out for me this week.

After I was done I just sat out there and enjoyed my new, cleaned balcony until the sun started going down (or rather until the bugs ran me back inside). While out on the balcony, I decided to work on a few fall crafts. I made this acrylic post-it holder which will go on my office desk once I decorate it a little for the season. Isn't it cute. I found the paper and the ribbon at the dollar store (my favorite place).

This arrangement I saw in Michael's and decided to copy it. So I went to the dollar store and bought the grass, twigs, brown ribbon and a tall glass cylinder candle holder. My plan was to hot glue the branches around the glass, fill the glass with some stones, add the grass then tie the branches with decorative ribbon. Well the next day I was in Walmart and they had the base part already made up. Plus it was much nicer than mines would have been as it also had eucolyptus stems mixed in too. So I bought it and added the grass to the center of that and finished it with brown ribbon. I think it will sit next to the tv armoire in the livingroom. Now what to do with the branches I bought at the dollar store? I have a burgundy tall metal vase that I can place the branches in. That will likely go in my bedroom or maybe in the bathroom.

I'm back to work today and I've bought in my supplies to work on the broom swag for my front door. I've been thinking about my door and I want to cover it with moss green (or some type of green-fall related) paper. The door is an ugly color. I hate it. During my lunch break I will go into a empty room and work on it. If I finish it today I'll come back and post a picture. I've decided to keep my digital camera with me at all times so that I won't miss important photo ops.

Keeping Occupied

2008-08-29T12:53:00.001-04:00

It's raining again today (Yesssss). I almost called-in to take the day off. I'm sitting here at my desk eating oatmeal (cinnamon roll) for lunch, putting together my plans for the Autumn breakfast I'll be hosting. I've set the date for October 12th. There will be about 15 people attending. I'm trying to keep it small but I know it will be more than that. I'll be ready for any extra guests (LOL)

Here's my menu:

Eggs (any style)
Ham
Bacon (Turkey/Regular)
Sausage (Turkey/Regular)
Pancakes
Waffles
French Toast
Grits/Oatmeal (Instant packages)
Cream of wheat
Fried Potatoes
Biscuits
Apple Butter
Fresh Fruits
Bakes apples slices
Orange juice
Tea
Hot chocolate
Coffee
Munchkin Donuts
Milk & Cereal for the kids (if they prefer)

It's nothing special. Just things we regularly eat (not all at once). I've written my grocery list and scheduled dates to go shopping for supplies and food.

Now I'm stuck. I would like to make some take-home favors for my guests. I've been searching the internet for ideas. Haven't found anything yet. Last year I made crackers and masks using silk fall leaves. I will continue looking.

A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood

2008-08-28T12:37:00.001-04:00

Well we finally got some rain. I for one am glad but unfortunately I'm stuck at work and am bored to death. On a day like today if I wasn't lying around watching movies I would be working on some crafts. I met my stepdad for lunch today (he and my mom live minutes away from my job). While we were eating I started thinking of what I could do to keep myself occupied once I got back to the office. Surprisingly it's a slow, quite day. That's probably because there are only a few courtrooms open today. Anyway once I got back to my desk, I started writing out some things.

This year I am having a few family members over for an Autumn breakfast. I've planned my menu and set the date. These are the invitations I will make for the occasion. It's pretty simple and I already have the supplies I will need to make them. Also this centerpiece will look lovely on the dining table. I plan to visit Michael's this weekend to get the supplies.

I recently went to the dollar store and picked up some clear plastic serving trays and bowls. They look like that heavy cut-glass you see in department stores. I also picked up a couple packages of clear plastic serving utensils (6 in a pack). I bought them specifically for Christmas but will also use them for the breakfast gathering. Well that's it for now. Time to write my guest list and shopping lists.

A Wonderful Surprise!

2008-08-25T10:08:00.000-04:00

Today when I arrived to work a co-worker surprised me with a wonderful gift. It was the "Harvest" sign that I had seen in Walmart but the colors are darker than the ones I saw. The ones I saw were lighter which I didn't like. I was soooo happy. She said she immediately thought of me when she saw it and picked it up for me. She was telling her husband that she knew that I would be soon getting ready to decorate for fall. I told her she was right.

I spent half of Sunday doing inventory of my fall decorations and making plans to start cleaning. Isn't it cute. It's going to go on one of my floating shelves with some fall garland and pumpkins. I'm very happy (doing the happy dance). Now I need to find another sign for the other shelf or maybe I'll display something different. Yea. I think I will display something different.

With the HGP countdown starting August 31st, I've decided to work on my fall craft projects this week. The HGP will have me busy and I know I won't have time to work on them. Besides I need them ready when I start to decorate. I would have started this past weekend but I found myself down in Ocean City, Maryland again with friends. Anyway the crafts I hope to get done:

A fall broom swag (Dollar Tree had instruction sheets on how to make one).
4 small fall grapevine wreaths for the bedroom windows.
A large fall grapevine wreath for the office.
Fall acrylic post-it note holder (Will make one for Halloween while I'm at it to give to my BFF).
Twig and grass arrangement.

All the supplies needed for these projects I picked up at the dollar store. Talk about savings.

Ventures at Dollar Tree

2008-08-22T09:58:00.001-04:00

I am a big, Big, BIG Dollar Tree shopper. I'm there several times a week and every Saturday and Sunday.

I found a new Dollar Tree yesterday and in it were some stuff that the other one's don't have. I bought a few black crows to give to my BFF. She and her husband go all out for Halloween and I put together a nice Halloween notebook which I gave to her as a Christmas gift last year. Anyway, a member over at MHH showed us a neat idea using twigs from outside, ribbon, black spray paint, moss, an inexpensive flower pot and crows. I've added this project and other great stuff in her notebook. At another Dollar Tree I found an orange clear plastic trick-or-treat bag that she can keep her notebook in.

Outside my front door my plans are to sit a small red wagon filled with fall leaves, pumpkins and a scarecrow. Well I found three free-standing scarecrows that will look great in the wagon. First I went to Walmart and they had a nice one for about $7 but I thought it would look awkward inside the wagon because it was about 3ft tall. Then I saw another one, great size and fit but was $20. Sunday I will go to Home Depot and get a small, thick piece of board to glue them to that way they'll stand in the wagon more sturdy. Oooh I'm getting excited thinking of how it will look.

I went to two other Dollar Trees before going home yesterday. I bought more fall garland, more fall scented candles, ribbon, clear plastic serving trays and bowls, and these cute little pumpkin baskets.

Now I'm thinking about going back to the newly found dollar tree to get more scarecrows for the office. My plans for the office is to cover the main door with fall color wrapping paper and hang a grapevine wreath. The scarecrows can sit on top of the file cabinet. I may get a few of those black crows too and some fake pumpkins. That $Tree also has the faux Indian corn. I can add those to my front door display as well. I have a huge board behind my desk that use to display an organizational chart. I will cover that with fall paper too and tape silk leaves all over with a large sign in the center that says "Fall Festival", and drape fall garland around the entire board. I may add orange lights - not sure yet. I also have this pumpkin floral arrangement which will sit on my desk.

More Room Decorating Ideas

2008-08-13T09:05:00.000-04:00

Well here are the plans for the balcony, livingroom and diningroom.

Balcony. If you look at the photo at the top of my blog, you see a glimpse of what it will look like. What you don't see are a set of candle chandeliers which hang from the roof line. (You can see them here) Also this year I plan to purchase or make chair cushions for the chairs and add a new fall welcome mat. During the fall I love to sit out on my balcony and watch the colors of the leaves, drinking hot chocolate.

Livingroom:

On the tv armoire will hang a grapevine fall wreath I made last year. On top of the armoire will be a fall floral basket of leaves and grapes.
On the coffee table will be an iron pumpkin shape candle holder with a fall candle ring. Next to that will be a basket of pine cones I got from the pine trees behind my apartment building.
I made another fall wreath last year which will sit around the table lamp on the book case
Change the candles in the wall sconces with fall tones.
I was going to add fall foliage to the pictures on my floating wall shelves like last year, but if I can find some of those wooden words (Harvest, Fall, etc.) at a reasonable price I will remove the photos and just have those on the shelf along with the foliage.
I want to replace the curtains at the patio door/windows. I've shopped around and the curtains I want are very expensive. My patio door/windows measure 14 ft wide by 9 ft tall. Then a few days ago it hit me, Buy two window scarves. They measure 216ft in length. I can cut them in half and sew up the end, giving me four panels and hang them from the rods. (The same thing I did with the ones hanging up now - duh!) Target has some pretty faux silk ones I like for about $35-$40. I really need five panels but what I can do is put a couple of coordinating sheer panels in the center. Problem solved.
Dress up toss pillows with new fabric.
Pull out heavy throws.
Add scented candles and a few fall arrangements everywhere.

I was talking to a friend of mine the other day and we were discussing all the family photos we have everywhere in our homes. I decided that I am going to buy several of those digital photo frames and add all my family photos to them - to get rid of some of the picture frames I've got displayed on nearly every surface a picture can be placed (LOL).

Diningroom

My diningroom will probably be dressed the same way it was last year. Here are a few pics from 2007.

Fun Activities

2008-08-13T08:03:00.000-04:00

Last week I visited a few websites of places in my area to see what kind of activities they have planned for the fall season. One place I love to go - Webber's Farm - has things going on from September through November. I don't have kids so I love to spend time with my nieces and nephews. We'll go pick apples, take them home to make candied apples and baked sliced apples. I may even try to bake an apple pie (LOL). They have a maze made out of hay that the kids will love to run through along with wall climbing, a huge hill slide, wagon rides and lots more fun stuff. Maybe too, we will make a scarecrow.

Another favorite place I like to visit is Valley View Farms. In September they will feature a Dept. 56 Halloween event and in October it's painting pumpkins and decorating fun.

I know AC Moore and Michael's craft stores will have fun activities for myself as well as for the kids. I remember one year my cousin and I went to AC Moore to pick up ornaments to make a wreath for her front door. So happens they were teaching a bow making class. It was so fun. I learned how to use the "Bowdabbra" and purchased one for half price with the coupon they gave out after you took the class. Now I make all my bows.

The kids and I will visit the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore City where they will be celebrating their 25th Anniversary ZooBooo Halloween Fest.

These are just a few outdoor things I hope to do this season. I also have a few indoor activities planned too, for rainy days and such. We'll have movie nights and work on some crafts together.

Room by Room Decorating Ideas

2008-08-11T15:02:00.000-04:00

As I stated in my first post, I've started planning to get my place in shape for fall. I have two areas already mapped out as to how they will be decorated.

Front Door Area: I just bought a red metal wagon from Michael's on sale for $15 but when the cashier rang it up, it was marked down again to $12. I'm going to cover my door with orange wrapping paper. I hope to find metallic orange or bronze paper (any suggestions?). Hang my two-in-one wreath I made last year on the door. Drape fall garland around door frame with orange lights. Next to the door will be my new wagon with fall fabric that will hang over wagon onto the floor. I'm going to add faux pumpkins, gourds, fall leaves inside and around the wagon. I saw a large carved pumpkin that says "Welcome Friends" at Walmart for $9 that I will pick up today to sit next to wagon. Inside the wagon amongst the smaller pumpkins and gourds will be a friendly scarecrow. Finally put out my fall welcome mat.

Foyer: I will have a pumpkin floral arrangement I made last year will sit on the small pedestal. I also have a console table which displays a few family photos. I plan to drape some fall garland among the photos and place two small hurricane candle holders at either end. Also on the table will sit a brass vase filled with dried wheat. I need to replace the area rug. It has seen better days.

HGP Countdown

2008-08-11T14:52:00.000-04:00

Over at Organized Christmas, the Holiday Grand Plan will start in a few weeks (August 31st) and I really need to give my apartment a thorough cleaning. The summer months have keep me outdoors thus leaving my poor apartment neglected.

Here's my plans for the countdown:

Week of August 31st - Front Porch Week (I live in an apartment so I will work on the balcony this week)

Week of Sept 7th - Living Room Week

Week of Sept 14th - Entry/Foyer Week (Fall Decorations start going up)

Week of Sept 21st - Master Bedroom Week

Week of Sept 28th - Master Bathroom Week (One and only bathroom)

Week of Oct 5th - Kids Room Week (No kids - Will use this week to shampoo carpets)

Week of Oct 12th - Spare Room Week

Week of Oct 19th - Kitchen Week

Week of Oct 26th - Kitchen/Pantry Week (This is a free week for me. Not sure what to do.)

Week of Nov 2nd - Family Room Week (Another free week. Will put up Thanksgiving decorations)

Week of Nov 9th - Garage/Storage Week (Free Week)

Week of Nov 16th - Attic Week (Free week.)

Week of Nov 23rd - Dining Room Week (I start putting up my Christmas decorations Friday after Turkey Day and throughout the weekend.)

Week of Nov 30th - Holiday Decor Week (Decorations will be done. Just need to set all the lights on timers.)

Week of Dec 7th - Finish Up Week (Will put up decorations in the office.)

Week of Dec 14th - Maintenance Week (Free week)

Hello!

2008-08-11T14:07:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone. This blog will feature everything I do to celebrate the Fall Season. Next to Christmas, Fall is my favorite time of year. The smell of wood burning in the fireplace, soft glowing candles, warm foods, cool sunny days and crisp nights. Oh yeah! Before you know it, Fall will be here.

I've been doing a little pre-planning. I created a list.

Inventory fall decorations
Deep clean my house
Plan weekly meals (well Sunday meals)
Put together grocery list
Decorate for Fall
Plan some fun family outdoor/indoor activities.
Plan for harvest dinner party or family breakfast.
Go through fall/winter wardrobe.

It's not much now but I'm sure it will grow as the season draws closer.