Thanksgiving Table Inspiration

 We celebrated Billy's birthday by enjoying a relaxing day at home.  Wait, that's what he wants next year because this year we spent his entire birthday cooking a Thanksgiving dinner.  It was the best turkey I've ever had, but we'll save our energy for when we actually host the main event next year.

And because we are hosting Thanksgiving next year I was inspired to decorate my table.

I've been wanting a burlap runner for awhile and found this one at Home Goods for $11.99.  It has a hint of gold throughout which dresses it up a little.  But if I had seen  this fabric first, I would have scooped this right up!  

 I also picked up the mercury glass candles at $4.99 each.  Even after the candle is gone, I could add votives.  I already had the pumpkins and the garland.  Not that I need it, but I think a salad plate with a fun print would really finish the look.  

I got one shot during the party...Lauren singing and William blowing out the candle:)

Are you hosting Thanksgiving?  

We are free loading this year, and I'm going to enjoy every bit of it!  But also graciously thank our host, it is no easy task!

XOXO

Aubrey

Black Friday

No, not a post about shopping.  We spent our Black Friday the same way we usually do, parade watching with family and friends.

The girls sat and watched the entire parade and just seemed so happy and into it.

This little parade is a great way to see old friends, especially ones visiting from out of town.  With two kids to take everywhere it's nice that people can find you here.

All the sirens and bands didn't scare Wills either!

And as usual, the highlight for the kids is Santa!  He never disappoints:)

Colin is again growing a mustache to support Movember, which raises awareness and specifically funds prostate and testicular cancer initiatives.  You can donate here to support.

In years past we are usually always in a hurry after the parade to get to the next event of our busy Thanksgiving weekend.  But not this year, we were able to enjoy the rest of the afternoon with our friends...sipping bloody mary's, munching, and dominos!

But since this is a black friday post, I will leave you with one deal.  

Acronym wine.  A $19.99 bottle, on sale at Kroger for $9.99.  But if you buy four or more, it's another $1 off!  Who isn't thankful for good wine, found cheap?

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and enjoyed the long weekend, I know we did! I'll post some more pictures next week of what else we were up to.

XOXO

Aubrey

Feeling Crafty

*Quick note loyal readers, make sure to read all the way down (or scroll if you don't have time) for a give away! 

Now on to the post...

Finding inspiration for projects has never been my problem, its the follow through that is.  But my latest obsession with pinterest.com has helped see my projects go full circle.

If you haven't discovered this online bulletin board, go and be prepared to get lost for hours.  Idea heaven, my friends.

I started with a simple mantel of gourds and fall branches from Michael's.  Easy Peasy.

This idea was actually years in the making and taken from an old hairdresser.  She had a framed photo of her kids from every Halloween on display.  I always thought that was so cute...Billy said I'm gonna run out of room pretty quick.  

The table could use a little something more, but I'll go hunting after Halloween for the real cheap stuff.  And what does he know, this table could hold a good 4 or 5 years worth!

And the piece de resistance...my fall initial wreath.  Ideas taken from here and here via pinterest.

All purchased at Michaels

The wreath, branches, ribbon, Wooden letter, scrapbook paper, & modpodge...$20.00

I did have to superglue the C to the wreath, but everything else could come out to change up for Christmas.

This was the first time I modpodged and if you do decided to make your own wreath I do have a few tips.  It dries fast and helps if you take credit card to smooth it once you apply.  If you get air bubbles, don't worry.  Modpodge is very forgiving.  Within a few hours the air bubbles were gone and it looked great.  I applied three top coats just because I wanted it to be shinier.

Another place I get inspiration from is Better Homes and Gardens magazine and I'd love to share it with you!  I can renew my subscription while giving two friends a free subscription for a year.  Want it?  Here's how....

1. Become a follower

2.  Leave a comment under this post.

You have till Friday (10/21).  

I will randomly select two people and post the "winners" on Saturday!

(if you already have a BHG subscription, you are ineligible, sorry mom!)

XOXO

Aubrey