Almost Halloween

 

I do love Halloween decor, even though I keep it pretty simple. I've shown this bookcase lots of times, but I will never get tired of it. Most of my Halloween books are for children, just because they are the most fun. I can't resist cute-scary witches and haunted houses.

Most of the places I have lived have had fireplaces. We still haven't used this one, but I always enjoy having a mantel. The picture is non-negotiable. John's mother had this print of Captain Bly for as long as he can remember, and then it was passed on to him. It's always had a place in his houses, but this is the first house where there has been a fireplace. So now he has a place of honor. I really need to read about him. All I know is from the old movie "Mutiny on the Bounty". I always wonder why I have this portrait of a crazy person in my house. My taste usually leans toward florals and landscapes. 

The rest of the items on the mantel change frequently. Right now I have three pumpkin candlesticks that I made from a Dollar Tree video. I do have a passion for that store, but it's always hard to find things. I did manage to get the little witch hats for the pumpkin heads, but never saw another one. They either don't get them in, or they disappear quickly. I know there are women out there buying up all the supplies, especially when I only need one of something. But I digress. The pumpkins are something I will take apart and re-use, probably for Christmas.

I found the orange shelf many years ago and decided it was perfect for Halloween potion bottles. It changes from year to year. One year a grandson (who is now all grown up) and I had a good time deciding what to put in the bottles. The Witch's Brew was green and sparkly paper. Ghost In a Bottle was stretched out cotton balls. Poison Ivy was dried plants. My favorite label says "Rue--Adds a Touch of Regret to Any Dish". I used to have rue growing in my herb garden. It was lovely but could leave a nasty rash if touched without gloves.

I planned to decorate the Witch's hat but it hasn't happened yet. The boots remind me of the ones I wore every day when I worked at a Living History museum.

Today is just a little touch of Halloween about the house. Fall has finally arrived after many days of tricking us into thinking it is still summer. So the furnace is on and so are the sweaters. I have to remind myself that it is time to wear socks! I hope we all enjoy this peek into Halloween!

A Witchy Wish

                             When your fortune on Halloween is told                                   Your beauty will last and you will never look old.