What is it about fall in Central Oregon? The beauty of the new snow on the peaks against an incredible yellow leaf? The crispness of the air? The sounds of geese in the distance?

 For me it is about a feeling of peace, nesting, hiking, and birding. Friends enjoy gathering and catching up about their summer adventures. I take the last few bike rides. My kitchen is constantly cooking up something.  I guess its a feeling of "Home".

  Home is where you surround yourself with warmth, smells of pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg...and cozy up to that first fire in the fireplace with family and friends.

As most of you know by now, I am a seasonal decorator!  I love changing everything from the art on the walls, mantles, pillows, tablescapes and even the porches.  One of my favorite fall pieces to decorate with is the painting called "Coming Home". 

The painting is part of the series called "The Oregon Love Story".

The photograph above shows the painting nestled by Aspen trees and Maples. Please note the twinkle lights in the trees.  I started placing twinkle lights in all my plants last year and on Friday night no matter what season... they go on....and then go off Sunday evening. 

 It is like a " Mini Celebration" every weekend. 

 I now have several friends that have started this tradition with their kids. 

 A time to "Celebrate their Family".

I love looking and adding "tiny" details to the base of the mantle. Here I added at the base of the painting faux leaves. My parents wonderful carved chipmunk sits in the middle of the leaves.

 A romantic old book with a great cover mixes in.  Decorating with books is so much fun. 

Just find topics that relate to your current decor. 

 Guests like picking them up and going through them.

Note the depth that adding layers creates on the mantle. The chipmunk here was my Grandmother Lillian's. Select different heights and also combine colors that compliment and add more interest....such as using one of my copper lustre vases to capture light. Note the mini chipmunk...just to add humor!  Most of all have fun!  Have the entire family help decorate.

 I started another tradition this year at my house.  I brought back "Sunday Supper" just like the days when I was growing up in Michigan and when my son Easton was a little boy.  My grandparents came to dinner every Sunday. When my son was being raised we packed the house every Sunday with family and friends.  It was the largest meal of the week.  Most everyone helped prepare the meal. I am thrilled that I brought this tradition back into my home.   As matter of fact... I have been cooking all day and must sign off.... guests are coming over...and a few more things to prepare.  The turkey, acorn squash, pumpkin mashed potatoes, pumpkin soup and fresh Oregon cranberries and Oregon green beans are all ready.

To top it all off homemade Carrot~ Spice Cake.

Fall Table

I guess I found the answer to my original question.  I love fall because its a time to

 "Celebrate HOME".

Please leave a comment on why you like Fall...would love to hear them. 

Have a wonderful "Week Everyone"!