I adore stylish groupings of unusual pumpkins on tabletops and porches.  This early in autumn, I am not interested in anything carved – after all, that’s what October is for.  Rather, I am drawn to the creative use of still life, branches, leaves and gourds to welcome the cooler weather.  Here are some of my favorite images of porches and centerpieces that require no carving whatsoever.   

From Sunset Magazine:

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After a weekend of relaxation, I was very excited to jump into my long list of new projects for fall.  Unfortunately, I was up all night with an ill daughter, and as a result, tethered to my house today tending to a sick child.  It forced a change in plans for the day.  But no worries.  I changed course, and in between serving crackers and juice, I focused on injecting some fall colors into our home.   

I am by no means ready for Halloween.  Today, I was inspired to put away some of the summer whites, and bring out some of the fall colors that seem appropriate for September.  I challenged myself to work with what decor I already had, so I scurried around the house in my pajamas all day hunting for objects I haven’t displayed in awhile. 

First, I focused on the kitchen mantle.  It spent all summer covered with a collection of white ceramics, which I adore.  But today, I ventured into a study in complementary colors. 

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There are crafts that I do with my kids that I deem post-worthy, and crafts that I really wouldn’t write about.  But this one turned out pretty cute, so I thought I’d share.

Since I was going away for the weekend, without the kids, to celebrate our 10 year wedding anniversary, I decided to take my five year old daughter to the craft store and spend a few hours with her, creating something together for autumn.  We picked out some fabric leaves and amber beads, and decided to make our own wind catcher.

And it’s true. There is something irresistible about autumn leaves blowing in the wind. Call me sentimental, but now I’m longing for cornfield mazes and pumpkin pie.

Here is our creation:

If you want to spend an afternoon with your kids or grandkids creating something together, then this is an inexpensive keepsake craft.

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