
Posted by etipton – October 15, 2008 7:49 AM
Carving pumpkins is time-consuming and messy. You have to cut and clean the pumpkin, which quite frankly is just gross. If you are not into pumpkin carving, these scary Halloween parts from Iron Accents are the answer to your decorating problems. The sturdy iron pieces transform any size pumpkin into a scary Halloween cat or witch. The witch kit includes the hat piece and feet piece. The cat kit includes a tail, head, and base with feet. The witch or the cat Halloween pumpkin kit is priced around $30.
Posted by etipton – October 14, 2008 7:45 AM
No store bought treats for your family and friends! Make your own Halloween treats with these pumpkin-shaped cupcake molds. The pumpkin cupcakes will look cute at your Halloween or Harvest party. There are eight black and orange silicone molds in the set. The Halloween cupcake molds are priced less than $15.
Posted by etipton – October 13, 2008 8:24 AM
Kids will love this skeleton apron. It will keep your kids perfectly clean during pumpkin carving, cooking-up some mischief and decorating Halloween treats. The Kid's Skeleton Apron is priced around $10.
Posted by etipton – October 9, 2008 12:11 PM
If you want to make beautiful pumpkins, it helps to have the right tools. With the aid of this battery-operated tool, pumpkin carving becomes a creative endeavor that artists of all ages can enjoy. Using the provided templates, you carve into - but not through - a pumpkin to form iconic Halloween shapes. Each carved design creates an eerie glow when the pumpkin is illuminated from within. Templates include two ghoulish faces, a ghost, a haunted house, a cat, a witch, a Dracula, a pirate and a Halloween greeting. Safe and easy to use, the drill is operated by four AA batteries (not included). 6 1/2 long. The dremel is priced around $25.
Here are some HGTV pumpkin carving templates. Click here for some helpful carving tips.
Posted by etipton – October 8, 2008 12:09 PM
Put these pumpkin-shaped place mats on your Halloween table. Place mats are nice to look at even when you aren't sitting at the table. The cotton mats are quilted and appliqued with black felt jack-o'-lantern features. They are machine-washable, and a Williams-Sonoma exclusive. The pumpkin-shaped place mats are $42 for a set of four.
Posted by etipton – October 7, 2008 8:06 AM
Have a delightfully scary outdoor setting with these Spooky Pathway Trees. The trees are weatherproof with a sturdy, powder-coated steel frame. The trees are covered in orange mini-lights that should last for 3,000 hours. The Spooky Pathway Trees are priced starting around $70.
There are also special bags available to store your spooky tree to keep it safe the other eleven months out of the year. Spooky Tree Storage Bags are priced around $25.
Posted by etipton – October 6, 2008 6:12 PM
I love this Spooky Tree table decoration from Pottery Barn Kids. This cute tree is perfect as your Halloween centerpiece. The black tree is made of iron with a square, weighted base. It is just bootiful. The Spooky Tree for your table is priced around $60.
Posted by etipton – October 2, 2008 8:54 PM
I had never heard of Crystal Skulls until the most recent Indiana Jones installment. A documentary about the skulls premiered around the movie's release date. The skulls have a very interesting history. Apparently 13 skulls have been found near the ancient ruins of Mayan and Aztec civilizations. We don't know who made the skulls. Some say ancient men from lost civilizations. Others say aliens made the skulls. Their creators, meaning and use are a complete mystery. Even the discovery of the crystal skulls was shrouded in questions. The daughter of an archeologist claimed to have found the one, but there was also a receipt from an 1800's auction house listing the skull.
Regardless of their history the skulls are truly works of art. This quartz statuette, was sculpted by Guena. Guena searches throughout South America for natural rock and crystal wonders to create his art. The skulls are thought to hold healing energy. Whether you buy it for energy or beauty, this white quartz skull is a creepy decoration of the macabre. The quartz skull statuette is priced around $90.
Posted by etipton – October 2, 2008 8:48 PM
I found these neat reusable cloth decorations for pumpkins in Pottery Barn Kids' sale section. The fabric faces are attached to poly-resin pins that secure into pumpkins without poking small fingers. Choose to make your pumpkin a cat, pirate, skull-and-crossbones or spider. Each set is made of washable polyester fabric with contrast stitching, and can adjust to any size pumpkin. Reusable Cloth Pumpkin Decorations start on clearance at $8.99, and I bet they won't be available long.
Posted by etipton – October 1, 2008 11:16 AM
These Halloween Critters Mugs are just precious. Welcome your Halloween party guests with these hand painted Halloween Critters Small Mugs. The set of four comes with one black owl mug, one black bat mug, one black cat mug and one spider mug. The Halloween Critters Mug Set is priced around $25.
Posted by etipton – October 1, 2008 9:08 AM
If you like your Halloween decorations to work year-round, these adorable gnombe-be-gone creatures might fit the bill. Handmade by artist Fred Conlon, using recycled hardware, these clever creatures are sure to add charm and laughter to your yard. His finish is designed to develop a unique patina as he lounges in your yard. These will put the neighbor's flamingos to shame. Prices start at $30.

Posted by etipton – October 1, 2008 8:21 AM
These are from last year, but they are still cute!
These Halloween Nyokki Grass Pets are adorable. Their ceramic body and fabric legs are hand made in Japan. Filled with growing media and rye grass seeds, these head pets are easy to grow - seeds germinate and grass grows to full height in less than 2 weeks. You can style your Nyokki's hair or cut it and watch it grow again! Set includes a black cat, skeleton, and pumpkin. Priced less that $30.
These lights look like bag luminaries, but the are plastic bag lights. Stakes are included to attach each jack-o-lantern bag to the ground. Because ten small light bulbs are included, this package is ready to go! A cord connects the ten plastic decorative bags. Try this festive look which is safer than traditional candles. Priced less than $20.
This spider pumpkin is iron, and can be used year-round as a planter or pumpkin holder. Prop a jack-o-lantern on your front porch or use as a support for your favorite spider plant. This creative iron spider also works wonderfully to hold a bowl of treats or grace a Halloween buffet. These unique, hand-crafted accessories are imported from small cottage industries in Colombia, Honduras, Haiti, Morocco, and more. Priced less than $45.
Posted by etipton – September 30, 2008 11:12 AM
Accent your table with this new Halloween Critters Table Runner. It is reversible, with a solid black backside. The Reversible Halloween Critters Table Runner is priced around $25.
Posted by etipton – September 29, 2008 11:02 AM
We love Halloween in our house. My daughter loves spooky, creepy things. I have started a Halloween round-up so that you have time to order these fun decorations before they sell out. Here are some really cute guest towels. This set of Halloween Critters Jacquard Guest Towels are the perfect touch to add an eerie mood to your bathroom.The set of two Halloween Critters Guest Towels is priced around $15.
Posted by etipton – September 19, 2008 11:31 AM
If you don't like the obvious Halloween decorations, but still want to celebrate the season, this black crow mat is perfect. The Black Crow Doormat is priced around $25.
These authentic-looking crows even have real feathers! The crows are available in a set of four small crows, an open-winged crow and closed-winged crow. See these authentic-looking crows and other crow-related items here.
Posted by etipton – June 30, 2008 12:35 PM
I don't know why I enjoy decorating for July 4th so very much. It might be because there are so many cute things to put outside. I'm pretty sure I posted these Patriotic Paper Lanterns last year, but I really just love them. They come in a set of three that includes two small patriotic stripe lanterns and one large fireworks lantern, with metal inserts for hanging. They would be so cute hanging on a porch or patio. The Patriotic Paper Lanterns are regularly around $20, but right now they are priced less than $10 for the set.
I probably watched the movie Pollyanna one time too many as a child, but I loved all their old-time patriotic decorations with their July 4th Celebration. Bunting is one of those things that just makes a house look so festive. We only use it for Patriotic holidays and summertime, but it is so charming. Thank goodness this Patriotic Bunting is made in the USA, and is priced starting at $25.
Posted by etipton – June 25, 2008 1:22 PM
I loved these patriotic Firecracker Candles. These assorted red, white and blue candles will help accessorize your tabletops and add a sparkling touch to your Independence Day celebration. The come in a set of four assorted candles, each with burn time of 2 hours. These Firecracker Candles are priced around $12 for a set of four.
They might be a bit corny, but these Stars and Stripes Corn Picks are too cute. The earthenware handles make holding and eating corn on the cob much easier, while the stainless steel prongs can be easily inserted into the side of the cob. The Stars and Stripes Corn Picks are priced around $30 for the set of four holders.
The Corn Dishes are sold seperately and are priced around $20 for the set of four.
And what is more patriotic than indulging in a great dessert? Discover chocolate decadence with caramel toffee butter cream in this set of six festive Boom Boom Chocolate Cakes. Each individual cake is delicately handcrafted with Belgian chocolate into edible art. Tasty and patriotic, these gourmet treats from pastry chef Susan Morgan arrive wrapped in imported chocolate paper for unforgettable Fourth of July fun. The Boom Boom Cakes are priced around $200 for six.
Posted by etipton – June 6, 2008 9:11 AM
Nothing is sweeter than a picture of a parent and child. If you have a sweet photo, consider picking this nice Dad Letterhead Frame. Great for a desk, mantel or even hung on the wall, the Dad Letterhead Frame holds a 4 X 6 photograph. Now all you need to do is find that perfect photo to put in the frame, and you are done with Father's Day. Also available in Mom. Dad frame is priced around $25.
Posted by etipton – May 7, 2008 10:56 AM
It is important in a busy mom's day to take time out for a few minutes of personal reflection and meditation. Tea Time is a great way to take a break in the day. If your mom is not fond of the typical tea-cup stereotypes, check out these tea sets from Tracy Porter. This Vivre Tea Service features hand-painted, rich, floral designs that are ready to be part of your home. Prices start around $35.
Tracy Porter offers a wide variety of unique products. Give mom two gifts with these Cup & Saucer Candles. The cute, candle-filled cups and saucers are designed with metallic gold accents that can be used as teacups and saucers long after the candles burn down. Perfume, Ambrosia and Lemon Chiffon scented candles are available. Priced around $25.
Don't miss any of the great Tracy Porter products. For a complete listing click here.
Posted by etipton – May 6, 2008 9:35 PM
I think plants are a nice gift. One of my favorite plants is the beautiful, delicate Hydrangea. I have one my daughter gave me a few years ago growing in our front yard. This is the perfect time of year to plant a Hydrangea. Jackson & Perkins have this nice Hydrangea in Tea Canister set. The colorful canister can be used in the kitchen after the hydrangea is planted outdoors. Priced around $55.
Posted by etipton – May 2, 2008 11:08 AM
Many husbands make the mistake of believing that since they buy a gift for their own mother, they are free and clear. If you want to maintain a happy marriage, you have to buy a gift for any children not yet old enough to pick out their own present for mom. This includes unborn children. Get your mom-to-be a nice gift like a nice spa set. This is a wonderful gift for any new mother or mother-to-be. This kit includes soothing blends of the highest quality organic essential oils and living herbs. The Back Rub Oil provides relaxation for tired muscles and minds, the Mommy-to-Be Milk Bath soothes the skin and senses, and the Stretch Mark oil nurtures expanding tummies. It is a great way to let her know you are thinking of her and appreciate what she is going through while staying out of the doghouse, and off the couch. Priced around $60.
Posted by etipton – May 2, 2008 11:07 AM
Sure, she is your stepmother only because she married your dad, but if you have a great stepmom, celebrate her. When your step parents are cooler than cool, there are few gifts that will let them know as clearly as these mugs. Each piece, designed by artist Sheree Burlington, is hand stamped and painted in Manchester, New Hampshire. Also available for stepdads, but they are sold individually. Priced under $25.
Posted by etipton – April 30, 2008 11:01 AM
Mother's Day is right around the corner. You need to be thinking of a gift for mom. I am going to spend the next few weeks giving you some ideas. My first suggestion is rain chains. Rain chains are a unique gift mom may not already have. Originating centuries ago in Japan, rain chains are a beautiful and decorative alternative to a traditional down spout on your home. As the water collects at the top of the rain chain, it gracefully cascades down the segments, resulting in a soothing sight and sound experience. A basin or barrel may also be added to collect rainwater for garden use. This lovely copper chain features a series of five sculpted lilies, designed to funnel the water from your gutters in a unique and interesting manner. A mounting attachment slips securely into your gutter outlet to make replacing your downspout a quick and simple affair. Segments may be easily removed to adjust to custom lengths, accommodating any size home. Over time, the copper construction will also patina to a beautiful green tone, for more interest. Add a dynamic accent to the side of your home with this Copper Lily Rain Chain. Prices start at $90.
Posted by etipton – March 21, 2008 8:34 AM
Dishtowels are a really inexpensive way to change your kitchen decor. These Chick Dishtowels are perfect for Easter or Spring. They feature three different designs in one set. One solid green dishtowel with a waffle weave design, one woven dishtowel with a lavender, yellow, and green stripe design, and one printed dishtowel with fuzzy chicks and Easter eggs design. Sold as a set of three. Priced around $15.
Posted by etipton – March 20, 2008 8:51 AM
Aprons are so cute on little kids. This Chirping Chick Kids Apron is adorable. It features two light-pink, scalloped-edge pockets, buttons to represent a chick's eyes, and pink fabric for a beak. It's topped off by a light-green, scalloped-edge strip at the top of the bib apron to represent the crown of the chick, and comes with adjustable ties. Priced at $15 . Priced at $15 .
Posted by etipton – March 19, 2008 8:54 PM
These outdoor sculptures are perfect for Easter, but can be used year-round. Each bunny has all the allure of weathered stone, minus the weight or hefty price tag. Constructed of a blend of resin, styrene and fiberglass. Each figure includes a detachable stake for secure placement in a yard or garden. Mix the bunnies with these outdoor duck figurines for a truly delightful Easter decor display next year. Priced around $50.
The ducks are also priced around $50.
Posted by etipton – March 19, 2008 5:39 PM
This year I planned on buying this Easter Egg Wreath, but it is no longer available for season. The topiary is still available, so if you want one, I suggest you order it as soon as possible. Why I wanted this one in particular is because it looked so classy. It is not another one of the bright pink, purple and yellow egg creations. So many of the Easter decorations look juvenile or mass-produced. They are just a little too bright and a little too much this time of year. The collection from Grandin Road is skillfully assembled by hand for a professional, designer look. They don't look like something I put together with my daughter and my glue gun; not that there is anything wrong with that! Next year I hope Easter comes later, and I can get a little more organized. Priced around $50.
Posted by etipton – March 18, 2008 10:03 AM
I got an email from one of my readers letting me know I missed the Cottontail hand towels. They have matching Cottontail embroidered guest towels that are adorned with cute embroideries, button details and ric rac trim. Priced at $15 for the set of two.
Posted by etipton – March 17, 2008 1:18 PM
I do not own any egg cups, but I see so many cute things to do with them. I've seen them used as planters, candle holders and display stands for round or oval items, just to name a few. These tiny, pastel Cordon Bleu cups are perfect for serving your soft-boiled eggs at breakfast, or presenting decorated ones at Easter. As featured in Better Homes & Gardens. Priced at $10 for a set of four.
Posted by etipton – March 10, 2008 11:57 AM
Let your guests know what you are serving on your buffet, or let everyone know where you would like them to sit with these Carrot Placecard Holders. Each set comes with four holders and eight blank cards. Priced less than $20 for the set of four.
Celebrate the Easter season with this Easter Table Linen Collection, which includes colorful napkin rings, napkins and placemats. The napkin rings are in a ring of egg shapes in Spring colors and come with matching napkins. The placemats are also in matching colors in a striped/solid pattern. Each comes in a set of four packaged in a box, with clear acetate lid. Napkin rings and napkins are sold together, while placemats are sold separately. Priced around $20 for a set of four.
Get in the Easter spirit and decorate your table top with our Cottontail Bunnies Tablecloth. Designed with pastel colored bunnies, this adorable, 100% cotton tablecloth will go perfectly with the rest of your Easter decor. Machine wash cold separately; tumble dry on low setting. Priced at $35.
Posted by etipton – March 10, 2008 11:49 AM
Dress up your Easter table with these adorable Cottontail Salt & Pepper Shakers. Hand-painted with a glazed finish, the shakers will go well with any Easter table décor. Rubber stoppers included. Hand wash only. Priced around $10.
Create a fun Easter holiday with our Cottontail Embroidered Cocktail Napkins (set of 4). Adorned with cute stitch designs and button details, these adorable napkins will go perfectly with nearly any Easter decor. Each set comes with four assorted designs. Machine wash cold separately; tumble dry on low setting. Priced around $12 for the set.
Posted by etipton – March 10, 2008 11:46 AM
For those who have parties for every holiday, these floating bunny candles are adorable. Use them as birthday candles for the Easter birthday, or have them floating in a bowl as a decoration. Either way these cute candles will add some whimsy to your decor.Each set comes with 20 miniature bunny candles with burn time of 30 minutes per candle.Priced around $10 for a set of twenty.
Posted by etipton – February 11, 2008 1:56 PM
These letters are the perfect package decoration or little add-on for a wreath, garland or other Valentine's Day decor. The phrases Be Mine, I'm Yours and Hot Stuff are red with sparkles, the rest are white with sparkles. Other phrases include: Always and Forever, Always Kiss Me Goodnight, Angel, Baby, Be Happy, Believe, Hugs, Kisses, Love, Naughty, Nice and Precious. Priced around $2.50 each.
Posted by etipton – January 28, 2008 10:33 AM
Seal that bag of chips with a kiss! These fun and creative clips lock in the freshness of cookies, crackers, cereal and other items. The magnet backing allows you to use lips for hanging photos, notes, schoolwork, and other essentials on the fridge or other magnetic surfaces. Priced less than $5 for a set of two.
Posted by etipton – January 25, 2008 8:31 AM
Does anyone still send love letters? I haven't sent or received one since I signed up for AOL back in 1995. You are more likely to receive a text, an IM or an email professing love and romantic notions. I want to bring back love letters! Too much time has passed, but maybe I can get this love letter purse mirror from Red Envelope. It is designed to look like a love letter, but is really a silver-plated purse mirror. It is embellished with a love stamp and priority-mail postal mark. Inside, the mirror faces a heart-shaped frame for a favorite photo of her fondest admirer. Awww. Priced at $45.
Posted by etipton – January 21, 2008 2:09 PM
Back when I was a single gal, I had a thing for frogs. I thought they were cute and I think I had watched too fairy tales. Maybe if I kissed enough frogs, I would find my handsome prince. Looking for some fun Valentine's gifts, I came across these really cute frog items. Share these with your single friends.
The frog salt and pepper shaker set. You can go ahead and kiss him, but all you'll get out of this frog prince, is a little spice! Priced less than $15.
Here are some cute frog prince tea lights. You can pick from a crouching, lounging or daydreaming Frog Prince. Hmm, lounging is probably the most realistic version. Priced less than $15 each.
How about a little froggie bling bling for the ladies. This sterling silver frog prince claims to be good for warding off toads, and for bringing loads of luck in finding a full-size mortal prince. If that was true, all single women would own one, but it is still fun. Inspired by a lifelong love of fairies and a childlike sense of wonder, Lynette Miller's sterling silver frog wears a 14-karat gold crown and dangles from an elegant silver snake chain. The necklace features a classic clasp with a fairy ring mushroom - they're said to sprout where fairies have danced. Handmade in Texas. The necklace is 16 inches long. Priced around $75.
Posted by etipton – December 31, 2007 8:42 AM
Tonight is the 100th anniversary of the Times Square ball drop holiday tradition. You can commemorate this milestone with these exquisite Waterford Let There Be Light Crystal Glasses. Made to honor a cherished New Year's Eve tradition, you'll reach for this treasured stemware again and again during celebrations and special moments. Formal stemware replicates the cut-crystal design of the actual Waterford Times Square ball. Crystal martini glasses and champagne flutes feature an intricate sunburst motif. Priced at $125.
Posted by etipton – December 23, 2007 9:01 PM
While I may have run out of clever things to say this Christmas, I still can find things I love. Take this Christmas tree throw pillow. It is handmade from 100% dupioni silk and is so striking. A soft Christmas tree design takes center stage, accentuated by elegant, embroidered holly and red, brush fringe. The Christmas pillow is a Frontgate exclusive that is made to order in the USA. Priced less than $140.
Posted by etipton – December 23, 2007 11:07 AM
TBS is having the annual A Christmas Story movie marathon beginning at 8:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve. If you love this movie you can bring home a piece of it with your very own Leg Lamp. This beautiful, 45-inch, full-size Leg Lamp has the authentic look of the leg lamp featured in the movie. This Leg Lamp has a sleek, attractive curve and design to the leg. It also showcases a fringed gallery shade, a sexy fishnet stocking and an elegant stiletto heel. The leg and socket under the lampshade light up independently or together, and are controlled by one 3-way switch. It can even be packaged in excelsior straw and shipped in a real-life, large wooden crate. Priced less than $150.

Posted by etipton – December 22, 2007 8:38 AM
While hot chocolate from an envelope is a wonderful quick treat, you can not experience hot chocolate unless you make it from scratch. First you put the hot chocolate pot from Bonjour in the microwave. After the milk is warm, it has an automatic frother that whips up the perfect cup of hot chocolate. The pot is microwave-save, but more importantly it is dishwasher-safe. Priced less than $30.

Give some gourmet hot cocoa along with the hot chocolate pot. This kit contains gourmet peppermint chocolate bark and creamy, milk chocolate cocoa mix. The peppermint bark is made with premium Guittard white and milk chocolate, and sprinkled with crunchy bits of peppermint candy. The creamy milk chocolate cocoa mix is a luscious, creamy confection to warm the cockles of your heart, especially after a day outside in the cold: sledding, skating, skiing, even holiday shopping. Priced around $25.
Posted by etipton – December 21, 2007 8:0