Black Magic

This year we decided to make black pumpkins. It gives such a magic glow. We just painted them with black floral spray. They look super spooky in the dark!

Lamp Shade

This a great way to warm up any room. And you will also find a lot of other fun lamp shades and bases. So you can mix and match.

Party Plates

I Love these Party Plates! And get this they are only
$2.95 each. They would also make great plates for kids.

How to make your Jack-O-Lantern last longer

If you haven't already carved your pumpkins. Here are a few good tips on how to make your Jack-O-Lantern last longer.

Step1

Wait until about a week to 10 days before Halloween to carve the pumpkin. Depending on the heat and humidity, the lifespan of a jack-o-lantern can be relatively short. As soon as they are carved, they begin to dry out and decompose.

Step2

Resist the temptation of carving an intricate design. Simple is better because if the cuts are close together, the pumpkin is less stable and breaks down faster.

Step3

Rub petroleum jelly on all the cut edges and inside of the jack-o-lantern. This seals in the natural moisture and slows the drying out process.

Step4

Move the pumpkin to a shaded area during the day if possible. The sun can dry it out quickly. If you have the luxury of a spare refrigerator, store it there overnight. This really helps make the jack-o-lantern last longer.

Step5

Mist the inside of the pumpkin with water once a day to hydrate.

Step6

Make sure to leave a vent hole in the top of the pumpkin if using a candle. This allows the heat to escape and prevents damaging the inside which speeds up deterioration.

Step7

Take care of your carved masterpiece by using these techniques and make it stay fresh until the last trick-or-treater leaves your doorstep.

Honey Syrup

Ingredients

Makes about 3 cups

• 1 cup honey
• 4 (3-inch) pieces orange peel
• 2 (3-inch) pieces lemon peel
• 2 sticks cinnamon
• 3 whole cloves
• Hot water

Directions

1. Using a funnel, place honey, orange and lemon peels, cinnamon, and cloves in a clean bottle; Add enough hot water to fill. Cover and let stand for at least two days and up to one week before using.

This recipe for honey syrup was originally used for a Miami Margarita. But, I was thinking it would be great in tea. You just need to use a sparkling glass water bottle. Then when ready to use attach a pour spout. It looks so delicious.

Vinyl Wall Decals

So, wall decals are pretty trendy right now. And I love them! What a great way to make a change without a huge fuss. It's just to easy! You can find tons of options at Etsy.

Spice Jars

Get your spices organized! I did this a couple of years ago as a gift for my sister. It's a great way to make your spices look fresh and new. Not to mention an easier way to pick them out when your cooking.

Protein Pasta

Now that fall has arrived you are probably getting those cravings for comfort food. In the search for healthier pasta I found Barilla plus. One serving contains 17 grams of protein! And it doesn't have that gritty texture like some of the other wheat pastas. Now you can enjoy your favorite pasta dish without all the guilt!

Statement Jewelry

It's all about statement jewelry. Go BIG or go home. This ring is from J. Crew. But if you don't want to spend the big bucks. Target is carrying a great vintage line of jewelry which features big fun rings just like this one.

Bird Watching

I just love the feel of this bird bedding. It just makes you want to cozy up for the winter.

Yum! Yum!

I Don't know about you, but I will definitely be ordering the new babycakes cookbook. This NYC bakery offers up gluten, allergy free cupcakes. They are also sweetened with agave. So no refined sugar! Yeah! You can pre-order the book through Amazon. Get baking ladies!

Wall Hooks

These wall hooks are a great way to bring fun and color to any entry way. The bird hook would work really well in a bathroom. I just love the bright colors! If these aren't your taste try these other hooks.

Pillows

Fun and fresh. I especially love the rice bag pillow. The black and white one feels modern and new. Mix and match or use alone! Have fun with any one of these pillows. Just click on a pillow to get one from cb2.

Robot Cans

These are a great way to be green. They are made out of
coffee cans and soup cans. I think they sort of have a retro feel.
Learn how to make them here.

Matches

I love these matches. There are a ton to choose from. Any style for any home. A must have!