Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Seasonal

  • Celebrate Summer with these Festive Party Themes

    Summer is here and it’s time to party! Start the easy living by planning the perfect summertime soiree. Get your guest list together and pick a date. We’ll help you throw the ultimate summer spectacular with a fun and festive theme.

    Family members, new and old friends alike will love spending a laid-back day or night with great food and beautiful décor. Keep it casual or dress it up. Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy creating a space for relaxation.

    Here are some of our favorite summer party theme ideas:

    Summer beach party

    You don’t have to live at the beach to bring the surf and sand to your summer party. A backyard isn’t even necessary, although a great outdoor space helps establish a beachy mood. If you have a yard or outside area, little sand islands and trails create perfect places for lingering.

    Indoor and outdoor gathering spots get their beach on when you decorate them with sand-filled hurricane lamps holding simple white candles. Keep plenty of beach blankets and towels on hand for lounging, and make sure you have refreshing drinks for the day followed by warm-up beverages throughout the evening.

    A tropical oasis

    Turn your home into a tropical oasis with colorful flowers and lush plants, as well as tiki torches and island-inspired cocktails or mocktails. Create a rainforest atmosphere complete with soothing soundscapes or invite guests into a thatched hut or luau setting.

    Hand out real flower leis made with orchids, jasmine or plumeria. Serve dragon fruit or guava sorbet and consider hiring a hula dance instructor to teach partygoers traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian dance.

    Movie under the stars

    Wait out the intense heat of the day and congregate around a movie screen at night. Don’t have a silver screen or can’t find a place to rent one? Configure a makeshift setup with a sheet or project onto the side of your house. You can “roll” films from an old-school projector or stream them from your laptop.

    Backyard movies under the stars are some of the most fun summertime parties. Hook up theater speakers, line up chairs (or piles of blankets) and treat your guests to freshly popped popcorn and natural cane sugar sodas for a new release or classic. Your event will be one to remember.

  • Planning Your Spring Vegetable Garden

    The key to a successful spring vegetable garden lies in the planning stage.  Once you have the spot picked out, you have to prepare the ground, create a layout, get vegetable ideas and buy supplies and plants. For the best chance of success, choose easy-to-grow vegetables like lettuce and zucchini. You can expand your horizons by adding some herbs and fruit plants, as well.

    If you are starting the plants from seeds, you will have to have the right containers to start them indoors. Otherwise, buy young plants with established root systems. Depending on what USDA plant hardiness zone you live in, certain vegetable plants will be recommended for spring planting.  Martha Stewart explains that warm-season crops like beans, tomatoes and eggplants do best in the heat, and some vegetable plants have longer growing seasons than others.

    planting seedsGrowing Plants From Seeds

    Martha Stewart also advises gardeners to check the plant-by dates when purchasing high-quality seed packets to ensure that they are for the current year. You can use any type of container for planting seeds, but it must have drainage holes. You may wish to plant several seeds in larger pots, which is a convenient way to start them. Another choice is to use planting trays, which are divided into smaller sections.

    Use regular potting soil, a sterile, soilless mix, a seed-starting mix or make your own if you are a skilled gardener or growing plants with specific requirements. Do not add compost or topsoil into the containers at this stage, because either can ruin your seeds.

    Put your potting mix in a large bucket and add some water until it is moist. Place the containers on newspaper, fill them up with the mix and tamp down gently. Dig out the seed holes with a pencil, making them twice as deep as the seeds are thick.

    The containers can be covered with clear plastic wrap to encourage germination, though you may wish to poke a few holes in the plastic to avoid mold growth. Place the containers or trays in a warm room by a sunny window. You can also use grow lights, provide the full UV spectrum of light to your seedlings. Mark the containers with labels so you don’t mix up the plants. Check them daily and water as needed – you can also add some diluted fertilizer when they begin to sprout.

    Making a Garden Blueprint

    Take some graph paper to draw out your garden plan before you do any digging. Vegetable plants like tomatoes and corn can grow quite tall, and you don’t want them to block the sunlight from their companions. You do not have to start with a large number of plants, because you can also add more later if you have the space.

    The number of inches required between the same kinds of vegetable plants varies, and you can find vegetable spacing guides online. Zucchini needs about 24 to 28 inches, while spinach only needs 2 to 4. If you are planting multiple rows of vegetables, these distances also vary; check the guide or your seed packet for this information, as well. You will need room to walk back and forth between your plants if planting in a traditional rowed garden.

    You can dig stakes into the ground at the ends of your garden rows, and connect each one with string. This will help you dig the plant holes in a straighter line. If any of the plants came with information tags, stick those in the ground alongside them.

    Gardening toolsPreparing The Garden Soil

    If you want to transplant seedlings outdoors, plan ahead by placing them outside two weeks before the planting. Leave them out for a few hours at first, and gradually build this up to strengthen them. Your plants will need a sunny garden that gets from six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.  Do not choose a spot that gets a lot of wind, because this could damage the plants and keep pollinators like bees away.

    The best kind of soil for vegetable plants is packed with nutrients. The best way to ensure this is to mix in organic matter like compost or manure when the soil is moist (not wet). Check the soil for rocks and weeds, and rake them off and away. Then, use a shovel to loosen up the soil, digging down to 8 to 12 inches.

    Spread at least 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure onto the soil. You can work it into the earth if you like, but this is not necessary. You can level out the soil with a rake, or build up the beds slightly. Now you can dig the holes and start getting those plants in the ground. Before you know it, you will have plenty of fresh produce to bring to the table.

  • The Best Soup Recipes for Busy Winter Days

    The best soup recipes yield delicious meals and starters that are quick to make and perfectly comforting as the temperatures plummet. From homemade lentil soup to a hearty cheese tortellini soup that you’ll adore, tasty options can be made to meet everyone’s dietary preferences. If you are craving simple meals that are budget-friendly and thoroughly satisfying, keep reading as we reveal some of the best soup recipes for busy days this winter. 

    15-Minute Lentil Soup 

    Lentil soup is a classic recipe that stays on the menus of busy families and Martha Stewart Living for a reason; it “is a fast, hearty soup for dinner.” True to its name, it only requires 15 minutes of total preparation and cooking time. And the soup is filled with ingredients you may already have in your pantry: onions, carrots, celery, garlic, red-wine vinegar, and lentils (the Magazine recommends using cooked lentils from a 15-ounce can). While the original recipe calls for chicken broth, this quickly becomes a vegetarian and vegan favorite when you substitute low-sodium vegetable broth instead.  

    Spiced Tomato Soup

    Is there anything more reminiscent of childhood winters than tomato soup paired with a grilled cheese sandwich? Quick and straightforward to make, tomato soup continues to make us smile, and Martha Stewart Living’s twist updates this classic to delicious perfection. “This is no simple soup, it’s a richly-flavored dish that features lots of spice and aromatics,” and uses whole roasted tomatoes as a base. Made as is, it is a terrific option for carnivores and vegetarians. Want to make this recipe vegan? It’s a quick fix; substitute vegan butter in the final stir.

    Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup

    Only five ingredients are required to make Health’s “Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup,” one of the best soup recipes for those looking for healthier alternatives this winter. Health raves: “This belly-warming soup is fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low in calories—but it’s not low in flavor thanks to the creamy sweet potatoes, spicy ginger, and just a touch of sugar.” Considered a superfood, “sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and healthy carbohydrates,” according to the Magazine. All of this healthy goodness results in a terrific way to revive after a hectic day at work or busy weekend.

    Smoky White Bean Soup

    Have you been trying to figure out what to do with that can of cannellini beans sitting in your pantry? Try making Southern Living’s “Smoky White Bean Soup.” This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for one-pot dishes that can be made in under 30 minutes. It’s such a comforting and tasty recipe that we bet you’ll want to make it a permanent part of your winter meal rotation. What makes this white bean soup recipe one of the best? Bacon. One extra thick-cut slice of bacon is all you need to take this recipe from good to great. 

    Potato, Broccoli, and Cheddar Soup

    Martha Stewart Living’s “Potato, Broccoli, and Cheddar Soup” is one of the winter’s best soup recipes because it combines rich flavors and healthy ingredients for kid-friendly results. The original recipe yields four servings and takes under 40 minutes from preparation through serving, making this an appealing choice for weekend lunches. While Yukon Gold potatoes and white cheddar help create a delightful base, it’s the broccoli that gets the star treatment. The Magazine explains: “It’s simmered until tender for the soup base and roasted for the garnish.” What is the final touch that takes this dish to the next level? The soup is enhanced with toasted rustic Italian bread that has been topped with roasted cheese, garlic, and broccoli florets. Yum!

    Spicy Southwestern Black Bean Chili

    When you hear the word “chili,” it probably sparks images of ingredients simmering for hours in a slow cooker. The good news is that the “Spicy Southwestern Black Bean Chili” recipe from Health can be ready in under half an hour. It seems too good to be true, but it is. The Magazine explains: “The key is using boxed roasted red pepper and tomato soup as well as flavorful ingredients like jalapenos, garlic, chili powder, and cumin.” This vegetarian chili is thoroughly satisfying and is also packed with protein and fiber. Plus, if you want to add some healthy fat to the mix, all you need to do is top the chili with some sliced avocado, and you are ready to serve.  

    Ham-and-Bean Soup

    Are you looking for a slow cooker recipe that can put a leftover ham bone to the best use? Southern Living’s “Ham-and-Bean Soup” is an “eight-ingredient soup recipe that’s made in the slow cooker from start to finish.” The Magazine advises: “Made with a ham bone, dried white beans, chopped carrots, celery, onions, and garlic, chicken stock, and fresh thyme, this recipe takes minutes to assemble ….” Cannellini beans work well, as do navy beans, but you should feel free to substitute in any small, dried beans that you have on hand. Get ready for compliments!

    Cheese Tortellini Soup

    If you love cheese tortellini as we do, you’ll adore this “Cheese Tortellini Soup” recipe from Rachael Ray In Season. This dish yields a flavorful broth that offers comforting warmth on a cold day. The Magazine explains the process: “Bring chicken broth and finely grated onion and carrot, 1 bay leaf, onion salt, celery salt, pepper and chopped fresh dill to a boil.” Once the broth is finished, add your pre-made cheese tortellini to it and cook as you would normally. It’s that simple. And, yes, it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds. 

    Cream of Asparagus with Shredded Prosciutto

    Are you hoping to add a creamy soup to your weekly menus? Rachael Ray In Season reveals that one of the best soup recipes for winter is their “Cream of Asparagus with Shredded Prosciutto” soup. The key is to shred your prosciutto and cook it until crisp in extra-virgin olive oil. The rest of the recipe is simple, according to the Magazine, just “remove prosciutto with a slotted spoon, add chopped asparagus and onion and cook until tender, then puree. Stir in half-and-half and heat through.” Minutes before serving, you can pop the crispy prosciutto on top and get ready to dive into this delightfully filling creation. 

    Chunky Vegetable Beef Soup

    If you hesitate to make vegetable beef soup because you think it will take too much time to chop everything, Southern Living’s “Chunky Vegetable Beef Soup” may be the best soup recipe for you. Why? “Since this hearty beef soup uses canned veggies, you won’t waste any time chopping.” It’s also wonderfully affordable, as it is made from “budget-friendly yet robust ingredients, with ground chuck, canned vegetables, and tomato sauce rounding out the list,” according to the Magazine. This recipe serves eight people and can be whipped up in under an hour. It’s also ideal for anyone who wants to make meals on a Sunday afternoon that can be eaten throughout the week or even later. In fact, when stored properly, this delectable soup can be frozen and enjoyed for up to a month.

  • Inviting Winter Home Decor for Your Front Door

    Do you want to give your winter home decor a lift? Are you hoping to make small changes that will improve your curb appeal? You might be surprised to learn that you can achieve both of those goals by simply upgrading your front door styling. By focusing on nature-inspired ideas and an array of paint colors and textures, you can make your home’s front door into an attractive showpiece this winter.

    Repaint Your Front Door

    Traditional wisdom made repainting your home’s front door in winter unheard of, but modern paint technology means that you don’t have to live in Southern California or Florida to refresh your front door with new paint now. If the temperatures are projected to stay above 35 degrees on and around your painting days, the most challenging part of this winter home decor project is choosing the color you love the most. 

    Southern Living is a fan of giving your home a facelift by elevating your front door with a pop of color. But take it slowly first. The Magazine recommends: “Before going all in on one color, test a few shades to see which works best with your home’s existing facade. Brush on a few different hues, and see how they look in the sunlight at different points throughout the day.” The Magazine loves choosing a bright yellow that evokes a Mid-Century Modern feel, a deep blue “like Naval (SW 6244) by Sherwin-Williams, to complement a white façade,” “all-American red (Heritage Red (HC-181) by Benjamin Moore) for a Tudor-style home,” or a deep plum that works “best for Georgian architecture.”  

    Design Winter Container Gardens

    We often forget that there are beautiful nature-inspired decor options that can bring joy to your doorstep even in winter. Southern Living agrees. If you took the first step of repainting your front door, the Magazine offers this tip: “To take your curb appeal project a step further, pair a freshly painted front door with a grouping of seasonal containers.”  

    Better Homes & Gardens enjoys creating winter container gardens as a way to brighten front doorsteps, porches, and decks. They advise creating displays that “aim to have a bold focal point in the center and include something that drapes over the side (think: thriller, filler, and spiller).” Do you love the look of evergreens? If so, follow the Magazine’s lead by placing narrow birch branches in the center of your container and fir branches around the bottom of the birch. Then, “tuck in pine, cedar, and juniper branches around the container until you have a full arrangement.” From there, Better Homes & Gardens suggests that you can get additional visual intrigue by arranging winterberry stems or “dried hydrangeas, pinecones, or dried seed pods” as accents (which should be placed in front, if the container is pushed up against the exterior wall. And, voila! You have appealing winter home decor that will look fantastic throughout the season. 

    Hang a Winter Wreath

    Wreaths are not just for the holidays. Depending on how they are crafted, wreaths can be the perfect way to transition your front door from holiday festive to winter chic. Martha Stewart Living is a fan of crafting wood flower wreaths because, unlike flowers that may wilt as soon as the temperatures dip, the “tapioca wood flowers used in [our] easy-to-make wreath will be in ‘bloom’ throughout the season’s holidays and the years to come.” Other wreath options that make their “must-try” lists include hard-shelled nut wreaths, succulent wreaths, and, of course, pinecone wreaths accented with winter berries. 

    One of Southern Living’s favorite wreaths incorporates the look of citrus. The Magazine explains this colorful DIY project: “Using thin florist wire, create bunches with artificial citrus fruits, laurel branches, and berry branches; lay bunches on top of the frame, concentrating them in two opposite corners of the wreath.” The rest of the wire frame is filled out with bay branches. Not only is the end-result of this winter home decor project ideal for the season, but it will serve you well as you usher in spring.  

    Sunburst Winter Door Decor

    If you have ever been tempted to add an elegant mirror to your home’s front door, now may be the time. Designers at Better Homes & Gardens applaud the idea of “[creating] an elegant wintertime entryway with a gold starburst mirror set between two wreaths.” This winter home decor accessory is reminiscent of Art Deco and 1970’s designs while also being thoroughly modern. It’s unexpected and stunning – something you and your guests will love seeing during a blustery season. 

    Make Your Mark on Your Home

    If you love using chalk paint to create home decor, Martha Stewart Living has the perfect DIY project for you: A “Chalk-Painted Monogram Wooden Plaque.” We adore this affordable project because it allows you to put a unique stamp and personal signature on your front door without significant commitment. Any time you want to change the message, you can. If you want something slightly more permanent, like the gold stenciled monogram that the Magazine favors, you can do that, too. It’s also a project that doesn’t require a lot of time or supplies. As Martha Stewart Living reports: “Using craft and garden supplies you may already have, and a coat or two of matte-finish white chalk paint, [you can] turn your stoop into a stunner.” 

    Embrace Small Improvements

    Real Simple encourages readers to think about the details when upgrading their winter home decor. “From sconces to numbers, the right outdoor accoutrements bring polish to any style of house,” according to the Magazine. Matte-brass lion front door knockers are wonderful additions to traditional homes. Doormats that boast geometric patterns are favored by the Magazine for “modern, Arts and Crafts, ranch, and split-level homes.” Meanwhile, quaint door-adjacent accessories, like a “copper gooseneck light [and] hammered house numbers” are perfect for any home with a cottage or farmhouse vibe. When refreshing your winter home decor, the delight really is in the details.

  • Family-Friendly Winter Dinner Ideas for Busy Weeknights

    Are you searching for winter dinner ideas that are simple to make and perfect for hectic weeknights? We understand. There is nothing better than digging into hearty soups, comforting casseroles, and other filling delights when the weather is blustery. The good news is that even on wintry weeknights when busy schedules are the norm, you can still make family-friendly recipes that satisfy. Read on as we reveal some of our favorite winter dinner ideas that the whole family will love.

    Cheddar, Beef, and Potato Casserole

    If you are a fan of Shepherd’s Pie, you are going to adore Martha Stewart Living’s “Cheddar, Beef, and Potato Casserole.” The editors embraced it because they were also looking for “an ultra-comforting, family-friendly dinner recipe.” This thoroughly satisfying meal takes the classic Shepherd’s Pie idea and replaces the traditional mashed potato with a crispy hash brown topping that is too enticing to resist. On the inside, you have a “savory mixture of sautéed onions, ground beef, and mushrooms” as well as “mixed vegetables and cheddar cheese.” The bake takes approximately 40 minutes, and you will want to finish it in the broiler for a final five minutes to crisp up the topping, according to the Magazine. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your go-to recipes for years to come. 

    Irish Beef, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

    While this may sound more like a St. Patrick’s Day recipe than a winter dinner idea, trust us – you don’t want to wait. Real Simple raves about adding this soup to your weeknight rotation because “[this] hearty Irish fare tastes especially good on chilly winter nights” and “[from] start to finish the soup takes approximately an hour and a half.” Browning the meat and simmering the beef with the potatoes and the other fixings are the most time-consuming element of this delicious recipe, while active prep is relatively short. And as the Magazine suggests: “The payoff will be clear when your entire family asks for seconds.” 

    Quick Pork Goulash

    Goulash is another classic dish that is getting a reimagining from the food editors at Martha Stewart Living. In this case, they found a way to make this Hungarian classic in under one hour – which is impressive for goulash with this much flavor. The key to this quick winter dinner is the cut of the meat. As the Magazine explains: “By opting for quick-cooking tenderloin instead of the more common shoulder roast, the pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender in a fraction of the time.” They recommend serving this satiating dish over buttered egg noodles, but mashed potatoes, rice, bread, or elbow pasta are also thoroughly pleasing pairings with this rich goulash.

    Vegetarian One-Pot Pasta with Broccoli and Lemon 

    One of Martha Stewart Living’s favorite winter dinner ideas is a one-pot pasta dish that takes less than 30 minutes from start to serve. As the Magazine advises: “This vegetarian pasta dish is easy, delicious, and something everyone will love.” While the recipe is vegetarian as is, it can easily be made vegan by either eliminating the Parmesan topping or switching to grated vegan cheese. This recipe is a great way to combine a healthy eating plan with comfort food.  Plus, clean-up is a snap.

    Pea and Lettuce Soup With Ham and Cheese Tartines

    Pea soup is a winter staple, and when you combine it with ham and cheese tartines, you have a quick way to make a delicious dinner in about 25 minutes. Plus, as Real Simple points out, it’s a great way “to use that head of romaine lettuce before it spoils” in the refrigerator. It may seem strange that romaine is a secret ingredient in this bright green soup recipe, but it’s true. And while the tartines may look complicated, the most critical elements are well-made ciabatta rolls and a broiler to help you perfectly melt that cheese. 

    Boarding House Meatloaf

    Just the notion of meatloaf can make one think of childhood and warm, comfort food. It’s no surprise that one of Southern Living’s most popular winter dinner ideas is the “Easy Boarding House Meatloaf.” The Magazine describes this dish as “fresh, filling, and oh-so-easy to make;” just what you want on a cold night. While the base of this meatloaf (lean ground beef, bell peppers, and onions) is filled with flavor, it’s the homemade tangy sauce in this recipe that makes it sing. And, as the Magazine reveals: “With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, the Boarding House Meatloaf is the perfect recipe when you’re rushed to make dinner on a hectic weeknight.” 

    Chickpea and Quinoa Tortilla Soup

    This tortilla soup is an excellent choice whenever the temperatures start to dip. Real Simple loves this idea because “[the] vegetarian soup features good-for-you ingredients like quinoa and chickpeas, has big, bold flavors, and comes together in just 25 minutes.” You’ll also love the wide variety of toppings that you can add to the soup before serving, including things like avocado, cheese, and tortilla chips. And, of course, you can never go wrong with a dollop of sour cream.

    Cowboy Casserole

    If you love tater tots (or your kids do), you will want to add Southern Living’s “Cowboy Casserole” to your weeknight dinner lineup because “the layer of crunchy tater tots that line the top of this casserole is its claim to fame.” The base of the family-friendly casserole is the ground beef that is flavored with taco seasoning. This recipe gets high marks for taking everyday ingredients in the cupboard, such as black beans, pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, and garlic, and turning them into an almost magical dish that is intensely satisfying. And, of course, the tater tots drizzled with shredded cheese are the perfect topper.  

    Blackened Chicken with Broccoli Slaw

    Chicken tenders are often a hit with busy families, and Rachael Ray’s In Season agrees that these tasty treats are too tempting to skip this winter. The Magazine recommends seasoning skillet-blackened chicken tenders with Cajun seasoning and oil, as well as serving them with broccoli slaw. It’s a simple dinner idea that takes only minutes to prepare, cook, and serve. As the Magazine cheers, “this meal is perfect for busy weeknights and hungry kids!” 

    Skillet Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs

    Speaking of skillet dishes that the whole family will enjoy, Southern Living raves about this “Skillet Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs” recipe. According to the Magazine, “the skillet is the secret to the slightly crispy sides of this mac and cheese.” Of course, this is not your ordinary mac and cheese. This recipe became one of the Magazine’s favorite winter dinner ideas, in part, because it includes a sumptuous blend of “cheddar, Velveeta, and whole-milk ricotta, and a generous amount of mayonnaise, which gives it a creamy texture and a slight tanginess.” It’s topped with buttery breadcrumbs, which are added to the skillet in the last 10 minutes of the bake. We can practically taste the gooey goodness and delectable crunch of this vegetarian dish already. Yum!

  • Cozy Winter Decor Ideas That Will Delight Until Spring

    Are you searching for winter decor ideas to keep you feeling cozy and inspired during the frosty months ahead? Winter decorations go far beyond the traditional holiday delights. From candle lanterns to versatile porch styling, there is a wide range of options for anyone who wants to give their space a refresh that won’t feel dated when the new year arrives. Read on as we reveal some of our favorite (and easy to implement) winter decor ideas. 

    Introduce a Soft Glow

    There is something remarkably inviting about the soft glow of candlelight in the winter. In fact, it inspired one of Better Homes & Garden’s favorite winter decor ideas: Garland candle lanterns. The Magazine recommends taking your hurricane lanterns out from storage (or thrifting them) and encircling the glass with fabric wire. From there, they suggest that DIYers “use greenery and white berries or even fresh herbs or juniper berries to decorate.” This is such a simple DIY project, but you’ll love seeing their cozy presence on mantels, buffets, and dining tables throughout the season.  

    Add Textile Wall Hangings

    Do you have an empty white wall that has been hard for you to decorate? Consider adding a natural textile wall hanging. If you are interested in purchasing something for the space, pick a piece made from natural fabrics like wool, hemp, or even bamboo. In fact, you might be surprised to learn how popular 1970s-inspired macramé is right now. There’s a cozy nostalgia to these knotted art pieces made thoroughly modern with a reclaimed wood support beam. If you are looking to DIY the hanging textile, Better Homes & Gardens reveals: “Simply loop chunky yarn pieces around a piece of driftwood and cut ends at an angle to form a center point. Embellish with beads and tassels to add color or add knots to add structure to the wall hanging.” Before you know it, that empty wall will be so eye-catching, you will wonder why you didn’t try this project sooner.

    Ward Off the Winter Chill

    As soon as the temperature dips, it’s time to wrap yourself in luxurious textiles made from natural fabrics. Midwest Living recommends “[replacing] bright summer florals with subdued blanket plaids, or [nestling] into tactile fabrics in soft colors,” as well as “[draping] a couch with a fuzzy angora throw (and [wrapping] up to watch TV)….” Flannel sheets are always a delight to sink into, and you’ll love sleeping in a room darkened with thick velvet drapes. Not only will the fabrics help you ward off the chill, but this winter decor idea brings instant visual warmth to your space.

    Layer Textured Blankets

    Real Simple describes this time of year as a “season of nesting,” which makes it the perfect time to enjoy “‘chunky knitted blankets, cozy throws, and lots of textile layering, [to add] warmth and coziness to the home in the colder months,’” according to home design expert Justina Blakeney. If you have a metal frame bed, you can embrace this winter decor idea by draping a folded earthy-hued blanket over the frame to create a cozier looking headboard. You also can achieve a layered look even with your summer-weight duvet. As Real Simple explains, you can just as easily “layer a knitted cotton throw over your linen duvet” before snuggling in for a much-welcomed nap or some serious reading time.  

    Transition Your Accessories

    Small changes can transform your space into a haven during the blustery winter months. Midwest Living loves the idea of replacing a simple lampshade with “a velvety suede alternative.” Soften your lightbulbs so that you can enjoy a subtle golden cast in late winter afternoons and evenings. You can even “skirt a table and layer on a nubby wool throw” in warm earth tones to bring visual interest, as well as a general feeling of being cocooned and insulated against the elements.  

    Spray a Calming Scent

    A particular scent can inspire memory, a sense of comfort, and peace. If the winter season has you feeling stressed, Justina Blakeney tells Real Simple readers that it may be time to spray aromas that are calming – like Lavender. Blakeney is also a fan of “‘earthy scents like myrrh, frankincense, and sandalwood [which] are great for the winter because they are grounding, promote balance, and are the next best thing if you (like me) don’t have a fireplace to cozy up next to!’” Every person has one or two scents that they respond to more strongly than others. Vanilla is also a classic choice, and it might just inspire you to start baking to brighten a wintry afternoon.  

    Bring Your Winter Decor Ideas Outside

    Design experts at Martha Stewart Living are urging readers not to forget their favorite summer perch: The porch. With a few quick changes, you can create a snug nook to enjoy even when the temperatures plummet. Of course, adding cozy throws is among the Magazine’s favorite winter decor ideas, but they also applaud the additions of versatile wooden benches, which can be made “seasonally appropriate by changing out your summer or fall outdoor pillows for a set that feels more wintery.” They also love adding handcrafted doormats that “can withstand the heaviest dirt, mud, snow, and more,” log hoops for some rustic charm that is “both functional and stylish,” lustrous string lights, and a welcoming wreath. 

    While it is true that wreaths are often associated with the holidays, Martha Stewart Living suggests trying a fragrant wreath that will instantly put you in a positive mood. Among their favorites is the Creekside Farms Fragrant Pod Wreath. It’s a picture-perfect winter decor idea “made up of three kinds of eucalyptus leaves, nigella flowers, and sculptural lotus pods.” You might love it so much that you may be tempted to leave it up long after the snow has melted.

  • The Ultimate Fall Décor Guide

    You will fall in love with these autumn-inspired decor ideas that can transform any space. Below you will find tons of clever ideas to help you welcome fall and bring magic and coziness into any room.

    • Give a plain plastic pumpkin a makeover and rustic feel by wrapping it with yarn or twine.
    • Create a gourd-geous centerpiece by carving out a squash or gourd and turning it into a vase. Nothing is more beautiful than a DIY pumpkin planter filled with your favorite fall flowers. You can also cut the top off a faux pumpkin and add drainage holes in the bottom.

    • For a rustic finish, wrap a foam wreath in burlap. Use a hot glue gun to add burlap flowers to the wreath or any other autumn-inspired items you want.
    • Discover how to make gold-leaf pumpkins to bring a classy fall feel to your home.
    • Fill a tall glass vase with pinecones, acorns, or apples. Another great option would be to fill glass cloches of different sizes with your favorite fall items.

    • Nature truly is nurturing. Place colorful leaves in a glass frame with no back.
    • Create a leaf-shaped dish to hold jewelry, change, or your keys. Press a leaf that you like onto a rolled-out piece of clay. Using a knife, carefully trace the leaf. After you’ve outlined the leaf, slowly pull the leaf off and gently curl the sides up. Place newspaper under the edges so it holds its shape and takes the form of a dish. Once it’s dried, paint it any color you want and seal it with a gloss or matte sealer to protect the finish.
    • Learn how to bring instant coziness to your home with these farmhouse fall decor ideas.
    • Paint old mason jars or upcycled glass bottles gold and white and use them as vases.
    • Put the petal to the metal… door and learn how to make your very own stunning sunflower wreath.
    • Create a beautiful succulent pumpkin planter. Fill a hollowed-out pumpkin with fresh succulents and moss.

    • Here are tons of crafts with leaves you can try.
    • Treat yourself! Make fall candles using seasonal scents such as cinnamon, pumpkin, or apple. First, find a glass jar you want to use as the holder. Double the amount of wax you would use to fill the container and melt it in a double boiler while stirring frequently. Mix in the fragrance oil you choose and place the wick on the bottom of your jar before you slowly pour in the wax. Secure the wick while the wax hardens by placing it between two chopsticks that are balanced on the top. You can also glue cinnamon sticks onto the outside of an old candle to make your home smell incredible.
    • Check out fall door decor ideas that go beyond wreaths.
    • A few things to use as décor that have an autumn vibe include amber bottles, throw blankets, plaid pillows, and leaves spray-painted gold.
    • Uncover farmhouse mantel decor ideas that add cozy charm to your space.
    • Here are some fall plants and grasses you can place around your home:
      • Mariachi ‘Salsa’ Helenium
      • Chrysanthemums
      • Black-leaf millet grass
      • Bayberry
      • Fuzzy kangaroo paws
      • Gerbera daisies
      • Chinese lanterns

  • Six Sensational Mixed Drinks for the Holidays – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    Sensational vodka mixed drinks must make the menu when planning this year’s holiday celebrations. While creating new traditions and ways to celebrate, people are searching for the ideal cocktail to complement their plans. Whether you are toasting with family in-person or hosting a memorable Zoom event with friends, check out these six dazzling vodka mixed drinks.

    Cranberry Cosmopolitan

    Martha Stewart Living’s “Cranberry Cosmopolitan” takes the classic cocktail and warms it up into a decidedly festive mixed drink ideal for holiday celebrations. The key to this vodka sip is the “cranberry-and orange-infused vodka” that forms the drink’s base. According to the Magazine, all you need to do is grab your “cocktail shaker [and] combine vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, orange liqueur, and ice….” Your tantalizing concoction is then strained into a chilled martini glass with a garnish of skewered cranberries and a twist of orange peel. And just like that, you are ready to serve.

    Holiday Vodka Sparkler

    Another twist on a classic adored by the editors at Martha Stewart Living is the “Holiday Sparkler.” This two-toned vodka mixed drink brings “flavor and fizz to plain bubbly” for a libation that is “as delicious as it is beautiful.” The drink blends pureed cranberries, vodka, and sugar. The tempting mix is then strained and chilled – it can store for up to a week if you want to prep significantly before your holiday gathering. Next, find your Champagne flutes and get ready to create a stunning ombre effect. As Martha Stewart Living explains: “Fill a flute with 3 tablespoons cranberry-vodka mixture and about 1/2 cup bubbly per glass. For the ombre effect, tilt [the] flute and gently pour Champagne down one side into the glass.” Yum!

    The Panettone

    The Panettone is one of Rachael Ray In Season’s favorite festive holiday cocktails. Deliciously reminiscent of the Italian dessert bread, this mixed drink features a shaker filled with vodka, Grand Marnier, and orgeat syrup. Once you’ve shaken it well and strained it into a Champagne flute, the final flourish is applied. As the Magazine reveals, mixologists then break out the bubbly and “[top the drink] with champagne and garnish with orange peel.” It’s a sweet, citrusy, colorful treat for celebrating the holidays.

    Vodka Reindeer Games

    The mixologists at Food & Wine landed on a fun, crowd-pleasing mixed drink that takes the template of the reader-favorite “Duck Race” and runs with it. Why is the vodka “Reindeer Games” such a hit as a sip? The Magazine explains: “it uses raspberry liqueur, and Chambord should be available in stores just about anywhere; vodka is always good for party drinks; and since this cocktail is on ice in a wine glass, it drinks light and easy.” Pour your favorite sparkling wine (nicely chilled, of course), the Chambord, and vodka over ice and choose a garnish that speaks to you – the Magazine’s mixologists recommend a lemon wheel or a few raspberries. What’s not to love?

    Meyer Lemon & Mint 

    The writers at Food & Wine are also big fans of adding Meyer Lemons into their holiday mixed drinks. Why? The Magazine reports: “Sweet and unbelievably fragrant, Meyer lemons are a cross between a standard lemon and a mandarin orange and have a vibrant, floral scent that reminds us almost of honeysuckle.” Naturally, when they were listing their favorite vodka mixed drinks for end-of-year celebrations, they included their “Meyer Lemon & Mint” creation. According to the experts at Food & Wine, you will want to combine the vodka, Meyer lemon juice, and honey syrup in a resealable quart container when creating a batch. When it is time to serve it, shake the container and then pour two ounces of the pre-made vodka cocktail and three ounces of chilled sparkling white wine into your favorite Champagne flute. The final flourish is the mint, which should be “lightly [tapped] against your hand to release its aromatics before adding it to the glass.” You’ll savor every sip.

     

    Minty Moscow Mule Punch

    Every year, Real Simple releases their favorite “Festive Cocktail Recipes to Get You Through Any Holiday Party,” to the delight of readers. Among their refreshing options is the “Minty Moscow Mule Punch.” Easy to prepare in single batches or as a punch, this smooth variation on the traditional vodka cocktail adds one crucial ingredient: “a subtle, cool, and inviting note of mint.” Start by stirring vodka, fresh lime juice, and ginger-mint simple syrup together (the Magazine offers precise chef’s notes for making your own simple syrup here). You can chill the concoction overnight or in as little as two hours before the festivities begin. Just prior to serving, add your favorite ginger beer and serve in a lowball glass (or punchbowl) with crushed ice. But be warned, if your go-to ginger beer is particularly spicy, this vodka mixed drink will reflect that fire.

    Bonus Vodka Drink: Glittery NYE Shots

    If your Zoom crew, family, or bubble-safe friends want to change into their sparkling finery to see this year done, the “Glittery NYE Shots” from Better Homes & Garden may be the way to go. This vivid drink starts with the creation of glitter vodka, which includes vodka, simple syrup, champagne-gold luster dust, and yellow-gold luster dust. For the precise recipe, click here, but trust us when we say that your guests will be delighted by this festive vodka “shot that matches their shiny outfits” and the bright prospects for the New Year.

     

  • Halloween – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    Halloween might look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a Spooktacular time! From fun ways to celebrate at home to costume ideas perfect for a mask, we have you covered. Check out our scary good recipes and compilation of great Halloween movies.  

    Boo-tiful Crafts 

    • Use balloons to create fun ghosts and creatures. You can draw a ghost on white balloons, Jack-O’-Lanterns on orange balloons, or create silly monster faces using sharpies. Step it up a notch by adding googly eyes or ribbons as hair. Remember not to use a hot glue gun, or it might pop. 

    • Transform your house into a Halloween world and give every room a theme! Turn your kitchen into Frankenstein’s lab with test tubes and fill different shaped glasses with different color food coloring. Fill the room with spooky fog using dry ice. Make the living room into a pumpkin world with orange streamers, pumpkins, and Halloween decor. Convert a bedroom into a witch’s room with candles, a fake spell book, and of course witch hats. Wrap purple or green ribbons around a broom handle in case a witch wants to fly. Here are 36 free Halloween printables you can also download right now to help you decorate! 
    • Create your own monsters with the kids using empty tissue boxes. Flip them upside down and paint the outside to make fun little creatures. Try painting one green for Frankenstein, an orange one with a pumpkin face, and a white one with a skeleton smile.  
    • Click here for more clever and fun craft ideas.  
    • Make a giant spiderweb on the wall with black string.  
    • Take old white candles from your linen closet and give them a spooky twist. Take red crayons and melt them so it looks like blood is dripping down the sides.  

    • Take old ping pong balls, paint eyeballs onto them and place them all over the house.  
    • Make your own family Frankenstein. Since Frankenstein is a creation assembled from an assortment of humans… do the same. Each person in your family can contribute an article of clothing and stuff it with newspaper. Set all the “body parts” up in a chair and draw a face on a pumpkin to be the head. You will have a silly family Frankenstein. Don’t forget to give it a name! 
    • Hang spider webs all around your home. Cut out little spiders to hang in the webs and glue pictures of your family’s faces on them for some added fun.  
    • Create your own bats! Cut old coffee filters in half and paint them black. Glue a small black circle on the straight side in the middle and glue eyes onto the head.  

    No Tricks, Just Treats

    Just because you may not go trick–or–treating doesn’t mean you cannot have something good to eat. Here are some easy to make Halloween treats you can enjoy with the whole family. 

    Scary Fun Activities

    • Schedule a zoom so you and your loved ones can carve pumpkins together. Maybe make it a contest and let your friends vote for the winner on social media. 
    • If trick-or-treating is off the table instead of just giving your kids candy, try to make it fun with a candy scavenger hunt! Hide candy all over your home and give them little cards with clues written on them. Here are some to help you get started:  
      • We usually come in a pair, we go with sneakers that you wear, so come and find us if you dare (Hide candy bars in their sock drawer) 
      • I am somewhere you go to get clean, where rubber duckies can be seen (Hide candy in the bathtub) 
      • When it’s dark I make it bright, I can help you see when it’s night (Tape candy to a lamp) 
      • I am where cold things get hot, come discover what sweet treats we got (Place some candy in the microwave) 
      • I am hiding somewhere that you eat, I’m also surrounded by many seats (Tape candy under the kitchen table) 
      • Find me where you dream at night, and the bed bugs never bite (Hide candy in their bed)  
      • You can find me underneath where you like to brush your teeth (Put candy under the sink the bathroom)
    • Have the kids strut their stuff on a Halloween runway! Lay out towels or sheets and make a “red carpet” for the kiddos to rock their costumes. Don’t forget to film it and send it to your family.  
    • Costumes are meant to be seen so schedule a zoom costume party and let everyone take turns showing off their costumes.  
    • If you are not comfortable leaving home, talk to your neighbors about setting up a safe trick-or-treating situation or neighborhood block party. Everyone can set up a table outside their doors in the fresh air and have candy laid out on the table so kids can touch only the candy they are taking. People can make little individual candy grab bags as well. That way you can avoid ringing doorbells and reaching hands into candy bowls but still trick-or-treat. 
    • Tape a bunch of small orange balloons onto a wood sheet outside in the shape of a pumpkin and play darts.  
    • It will be hard to keep your laughing under wraps as you make your family members into mummies. All you need… toilet paper.  

     Hauntingly Great Costumes 

    Here is a list of costumes that work great with a face mask underneath. By wearing masks under their costumes or helmets, children might feel that Halloween is still “normal” while also staying safe. 

    • Power Rangers  
    • Astronaut  
    • Super Heroes: Spiderman, Black Panther, Iron Man, Hulk  
    • Transformers 
    • Robot 
    • Ninja 
    • Mortal Kombat characters: Subzero, Scorpion, Kitana, Milenna, Jade, Ermac, Rain 
    • Buzz Lightyear 
    • Star Wars: Chewbacca, Darth Vader 
    • Pumpkin Queen/King 
    • Knight – with helmet 
    • A Lego character   
    • Pokémon 
    • Gladiator with helmet 
    • Sonic the Hedgehog 
    • Minecraft character 
    • Bubble Boy  
    • Gorilla 
    • Alien 
    • Mummy 

    DIY Costumes and Mask Ideas

    For those of you who don’t want to wear a helmet or full-face mask another option would be to decorate your own and incorporate it into your costume. Below are some ideas you can create or spend some time making with your family. 

    • Make a mermaid mask! Glue little confetti circles on a mask slightly overlapping to make them look scales. 
    • Paint any mask to look like an animal’s mouth. Paint a dog’s mouth, a cat nose and whiskers, or cute bunny teeth.  
    • Paint the mouth like a Dia de los Muertos skull mouth and then just paint the rest of your face as you normally would.  
    • Here are some ideas for no sew halloween costumes.   
    • All fairy’s need fairy dust… so why not cover the outside of your mask with glitter? Make sure you use a non-toxic glue and that it’s completely dry before wearing it.  
    • Create a robot with an old box, flip it upside down, cut the flaps off and then glue two straws on the top as antennas. Cut out a rectangular window for eyes in the front. For the body do the same thing with a larger box and cut out two holes for the arms on either side. Paint the boxes silver or cover them in aluminum foil. For buttons and added details you can paint different colored bottle caps and glue them on the front. You can cut out gears and other things using construction paper. 
    • Here is a great DIY Lego Costume  
    • Make an Astronaut Space Helmet and blast off! 

    Pet Costume Ideas

    We all knows pets are part of the family. Do a photoshoot of your four-legged friends in their costumes so you can share them and put a smile on other people’s faces. If you don’t want to buy a costume here are a few DIY pet costume ideas. 

    • Business Pup: Take any fun fabric and cut out a cute little tie that you can attach to their collar. Add polka dots or stripes to kick it up a notch.    
    • Beanie Baby: Take red construction paper and cut out a heart. Then paint a TY in white on the heart and tie it their collar so they can be the cutest Beanie Baby on the block. 
    • Ride Em Cowboy: Repurpose an old harness and glue a small stuffed animal or lightweight toy on the back of it so it looks like it’s riding your dog. If you have an old cowboy toy even better. 
    • Martini: Find an old cone and add some olive props.  
    • Out of This World Doggo: Have fun crafting with the kids while transforming your dog into an alien. Glue googly eyes onto an old harness or take pipe cleaners and any other materials you have and attach them in fun ways.  
    • Pumpkin Poodles: Take orange felt and cut out a piece large enough to wrap around your dog’s waist. Draw a Jack-o-lantern face on the top using a black sharpie or fabric markers. Use green felt and cut out a little leaf and stem to glue or sew onto the top of the pumpkin. To attach it to your dog or cat add strings to either side of the fabric and then you can tie it around their tummy. You can also buy Velcro and adhere that to either side so you can adjust the size as needed.  
    • Super Hero: Take fabric or an old t-shirt and cut out a cape for your pet. Add a string so you can tie around their neck or attach it to a collar. As a family come up with their very own superhero name and using fabric markers write it on the top of the cape.  

    Spooktacular Halloween Movies

    Create a scary movie watching zone to spook up the experience. Hang cobwebs all over your living room and use orange or purple lights to add ambiance. Cut out a few black bats to attach to the wall and create some ghosts out of white sheets or towels.  

    Here is a list of family friendly movies (that won’t result in the kiddos crawling into your bed scared): 

    • Hocus Pocus  
    • Halloweentown 
    • The Addams Family  
    • Toy Story of Terror 
    • Twitches  
    • Hotel Transylvania 
    • Casper 
    • Super Monsters Save Halloween 
    • It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown 
    • Under Wraps 
    • The Haunted Mansion 
    • Corpse Bride 
    • The Nightmare Before Christmas 
    • Double, Double, Toil & Trouble    

    Scary movies for adults 

    • A Nightmare on Elm Street  
    • Halloween (all 900 of them) 
    • The Shining  
    • Get Out 
    • The Exorcist  
    • A Tale of Two Sisters 
    • The Blair Witch Project 
    • The Texas Chain Saw Massacre  
    • A Quiet Place    

    Ways to Give Back

    Although it’s been a tough year there are a variety of ways you can give back to your local community this Halloween.  

    • As we all know – kids grow fast. Instead of just putting old Halloween costumes in a box in your closet, donate them to those who might not be able to afford their own. 
    • If you have time and enjoy crafting, sew costumes for those who can’t afford to buy them. If you’re not an expert sewer try creating simple pieces such as super hero capes. For some costume ideas that don’t require sewing, visit the DIY costumes section above. 
    • Donate your left-over candy. Operation Gratitude is a Halloween Candy Give-Back program where you can donate candy to deployed troops, veterans, and first responders.  
    • Offer to help your elderly neighbors decorate offer their front yard. Make sure you’re following the proper safety guidelines while decorating.  
    • Some families might want to decorate their yards but not be able to afford it. Try cutting out pumpkins from simple construction paper and attaching a string so they can hang them up outside. You can repurpose old sheets or towels to make spooky ghosts. 

     

    Click here to view all the Season of Sharing articles.

        

     

  • Clever Ways to Change Decor Seasonally

    The last postcards of summer landed in your mailbox a few weeks ago and the kids are scuffling through sidewalks full of leaves on their way to school. It’s time to change out the beach glass and shells in favor of autumnal decor. Here are a few unique decorating ideas that will help you apply a little seasonal love to your home.

    Borrow from Nature

    Oddly shaped colored squashes, clusters of changing leaves and bundles of dried wheat stalks will add a seasonal touch to your living space.

    You can simply add seasonally suggestive colors in overlooked but highly visible places in your home: a seasonal centerpiece instantly enhances the dining room. Plants on kitchen counters and cabinets refer you to the season in which they flourish. Windows cry out for a bit of the natural world they allow you to look out upon. You can capitalize on this by changing curtain colors and the cozies you put on your sills. 

    Elsewhere around the house, when the weather is crisp, a nubby white throw blanket adds a cup full of cozy to any living room. In spring, pussy willows, sky blues and fresh fruit like lemons or berries enliven a kitchen, just as clusters of fresh cut garden flowers enliven a screened in porch when the fireflies are lighting up summer evenings and there’s a paddle posed against the front door.

    Try putting some seasonal fruit in the kitchen. Indian corn left on a kitchen countertop brings the fall harvest inside with you. In addition, edible seasonal fruit makes an elegant decoration, especially if accompanied by branches, leaves, pinecones, and puffballs.

    Accessorize to Match the Season

    Seasonal pillows can give your furniture a sharp new look. Buy pillow covers in colors that suggest a season to you and change out the old for the new in five minutes’ time.

    Accessorizing is a great way to redecorate quickly and cheaply. You can add a seasonal wreath to your front door woven out of branches of turning leaves interspersed with dried mushrooms, corn husks, and strands of straw. Closer to Thanksgiving, you’ll want to trade this for an evergreen wreath or something holiday-inspired. Take mental notes on colors and plants as the seasons change. Be crafty, and trust your own instincts when it comes to what the season means to you.

    Seasonal Sleeping Quarters

    You can also switch out your linens to boost your desire to sleep each night by way of a seasonally inviting bedspread. In warmer months, airy sheets in cool bright hues like turquoise or butter lemon spice up the night, and when the weather starts to cool, exchange your bedding for a  weighty comforter in dark, warm shades. In colder climates, the switch from cotton to flannel sheets signals the start of both winter and the festive season.

    A new area rug can pull a room together. These floor coverings are so portable, inexpensive, and useful they can transform any space through any seasonal change.

    Use Distinct Seasonal Themes

    For fall, welcome the cool weather with bouquets of changing leaves. Then create a unique centerpiece for your table, and decorate above your kitchen cabinets with colored squashes and leaves of different sizes.

    In winter, keep up the cozy theme you started for fall. Use plaid patterns that bring to mind cabins and wool blankets. You can also rely on shades of brown, red, and green. When the snow flies, incorporate icy blues and moonlit silvers in your interior decor scheme.

    In spring, lavish flowers and fresh scents in every room always help create a clean, fresh, and airy feel. A large vase of flowers reminds everyone of the then very welcome seasonal change, as do items connoting warmer weather, like small decorative bicycles and red wagons on the porch or just inside the front door.

    In summer, seashells and driftwood make perfect decorating elements for your mantel or hearth. Sheer white curtains billow to announce the season in front of open windows that blow the freshness of summer warmth throughout your home.

    Seasonal Decor by Holiday

    Holidays are often decorated for, and so doing can summon the aura of entire seasons themselves. Here are some basics of the upcoming festivities.

    • Halloween: Use classic jack-o-lanterns on your porch and candy corn in decorative bowls to decorate for Halloween. Try some of the less-usual pumpkin shapes and colors to keep things classy and fresh.
    • Thanksgiving: Place a cornucopia centerpiece on the family table.
    • Christmas: Plenty of lights, of course, and holly berries or poinsettias bring a natural vibe to the most wonderful time of the year.
    • Valentine’s Day: Use hearts and doilies in colors of red, pink, and white throughout the home.
    • St. Patrick’s Day: Classic green shamrocks look splendid adorning your mantel or front door.
    • Easter: Pastel-colored eggs make the perfect accent in a clear vase, surrounded by fresh sprigs of lilac.
    • Fourth of July: Use red, white and blue accents where you can.

    Let your imagination be your guide as the seasons change, and you’ll find inspiration in nature for your unique decorating ideas.