I love how the holidays conjure up so many happy memories (and if by chance they do not, it is time for you to change that and start creating your own cherished holiday moments). I am one of those people who really try to look at the glass half full. I think this is why I love the holidays, because it seems that there is a general consensus amongst people that they too need to have a more optimistic outlook.  With the change of seasons upon us, and me frenetically decorating my house, I had a friend who took just an extra few moments to change my entire outlook on the day. I had a sick child at school, and with my eldest having the car for the day, had no way to retrieve her. In comes one of my besties, pajama clad and all, to jump in her car and bring my ailing child home. No expectations, no guilt trip – just good hearted kindness that she continues to bring into my life. These are the types of rewards that need to be recognized. I am often complimented for my gift of decorating and bringing so much warmth and love into the house through my design style, but it was this generous act of friendship that brought more love into my household than any decoration could. This is really the epitome of living an embellished life. Surrounding yourself with people who are beautiful as opposed to things that are beautiful is highly rewarding!! My friend will blush and be embarrassed that I wrote about this, because she doesn’t see it as anything more than just being a good friend. Again, I am blessed with the rewards in my life!!!

With all this goodness coursing through our veins, let me share another fabulous decorating thought. If you have a chandelier that is begging to be adorned for the season, let me offer this exciting option. The more reasonable stores out there, ie Dollar Store, Walmart, Rite-Aid etc all have some type of fall foliage. The picture above is my living room chandelier. The red leaves I obtained from Walmart a few years back. The rest of the garlands and embellishments are post holiday purchases from more designer oriented stores. Take a moment to pull out your step ladder and begin draping the fall foliage, that you just about threw out, in and out the arms of the fixture. Make sure you fluff up the leaves as you go along, twisting them to catch the best light from the bulbs. It really is as simple as that, inexpensive garlands will look exquisite with the light sparkling on them. If you find that they don’t glitter enough for your taste, go purchase some glitter spray from a craft store. Trust me, it will be your new secret weapon in the world of decorating. This will be a very rewarding task for you to accomplish, simple and festive- just the way I like it!!

Take time to enjoy Fall’s rewards!!