$3 Fall Mantel

I'm really excited about how the mantel turned out, because it only cost me $3!  I had purchased some fall decor last year with the idea in mind that it would last awhile, but totally changed my tune when I unpacked it and looked at the blog post from last year. I just felt I could get a little more creative, a little simpler, while bringing some natural elements in.  BUT, if I'm going to be changing things up year after year I needed to do this with little to no cost.

My inspiration started with the acorn frame I found here.  I got the frame in the dollar bin a Michaels and made a game out of finding all the acorns with the kids.  I simply hot glued all the acorns and added the burlap and leaf.  

I wanted some branches to bring more outside in and add some height.  I found them on a walk but after arranging them in the mason jar, thought they needed a pop of color.

I just made my own pumpkin branches by breaking apart this little guy from last year.

This side was A LOT harder to figure out on a budget.  Keeping it simple, I got the ghords for $2, found the candles and candlesticks in the closet and finished it off with a little kitchen twine.  

I keep thinking I can make this side better, but  I decided to stop obsessing over a MANTEL and move on:)

Sharing With:

The Insprired Room

XOXO

Aubrey

Future Spartans (and winner annouced!)

A visit to Michigan State will always bring back treasured memories.  From my days in the dorms, sorority life, meeting Billy and of course football.  

We had such a great time tailgating with the kids last year that we attempted it again this past weekend.  It was all I could talk last week, completely excited for our little day trip.  I watch most of the games on tv, but it's not like I'm this die hard fan who plans their life around the Spartan's schedule (However, I will admit to screaming at the tv).  It's because I called this place home for four years, and I'd be lying if I don't have this little dream of our children getting experience what we did.  

So, the sales pitch is starting early.  College part two, right?

  We could not have asked for a better day or better kids.  Look at him, born to tailgate.

We were able to catch up with friends without chasing them around and just relax, which doesn't always happen.

While MSU may have the scale tipped in its favor, we will gladly support any decision.  

At the very least, we'll take them as lifelong fans.

AND THE WINNER IS.....

using random.org

****Congrats Megan!  You apparently have good luck with my giveaways****

Have a great weekend everyone and go green!

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