Chalkboard Love

Don't you just love chalkboards? I think they are one of my favorite decorating elements of all time. In this picture I have used my very large one as a backdrop for a photo of one of my ruffled bags. This one was a true find one day at my favorite store, Home Goods. It is about 4 feet long.

A chalkboard does not have to be huge to be a focal point to any room. Chalkboards, in all sizes, can be a simple decorative tool for any style or season.

Five Ways to Decorate with Chalkboards

1. Hang a large, rectangular chalkboard on the wall behind a dining room table and chairs. Have fun writing sample menus on the board to highlight the foods associated with the different seasons.

2. Use chalkboard labels on mason jars to store pantry items in a stylish way.

3. Place a small, wood-framed chalkboard next to a decorative display, such as next to a bunch of faux pumpkins. Write the word, "Pumpkin Patch" on the board as a whimsical touch.

4. Take chalkboard clothespins (yes, they even make those!) and write inspirational words on them. Attach them on a horizontal clothesline with black and white family photos.

5. Incorporate mini chalkboards on a buffet table. Write all the names of the foods on them so there is no guessing when dinner time comes around.

Chalkboards are a decorating tool that is so versatile and inexpensive. Try adding some to your home today!

The "Cozy" Season

It is approaching the "cozy" season. In other words, fall is almost here, and I cannot wait! Autumn is by far my favorite time of year, so as soon as there is a nip in the air I can be found setting out all my fall favorite things.

What are my all-time must-have decor items?

1. Harry Slatkin candles. His complex fall scents are the best around. I have a variety, such as sweet pumpkin, leaves, and apples scents, all over my house. Now he sells exclusively at QVC, but many of his candles are also sold under the Bath and Body Works name. There is nothing like a warm, welcoming fall candle to dress up your fall home.

2. Fall throws. This is the time of year I get some of my chunky throws and drape them over a couch or chair. I like the fall colored ones, plaid, and even faux fur varieties. You can never have enough throws in my opinion!

3. Mini chalkboards. I have all shapes and sizes. They are perfect for setting next to a decorative display. I write words on them, such as "Happy Fall" or "Pumpkin Patch." It is an inexpensive way to add a little whimsy to your home.

4. Decorative lights. It is already getting darker sooner, so a few Tiffany-style lamps, flickering candle electric lights or a string of orange mini-lights around a decorative branch make my home warm and inviting at night.

5. Autumn dishes. My hutch holds my displays of dishes. These different sets of dishes get replaced every season. My MIL gave me a set of antique turkey dishes that I proudly showcase this time of year. Maybe you have a small bookshelf or floating shelf. Add a few fall-inspired dishes to dress up your decor. Again, this is a simple and inexpensive way to add a little charm to your fall home.

What do you like to do to decorate your home for fall?