One of the reasons I love the fall season is because it feels so welcoming. We cozy in, snuggle up, and fill our homes with delicious scents like apple cinnamon and spiced pumpkin. It’s my favorite time of year to have guests.

So, with company often dropping by unannounced, I decided to get a jump start on fall decorating.

It’s fun to decorate the mantel, but the fireplace has always felt a little dark to me. I wanted to brighten things up a bit, and luckily, I saw a great idea in a nearby shop that I frequent. The shop owner had placed a salvaged wooden window screen in front of an old fireplace surround and attached a few tiny light strings to the front with mini ornament hooks.

It was simple and cheerful, so I decided to put my own spin on it for my house. I wrapped white birch logs with tiny lights and suddenly things looked a lot brighter!

It added the warmth and sparkle I wanted, and makes the whole house feel festive.

Join me for a cup of mulled cider?

– Debra