New Project!

While browsing around on coupon blogs and frugal websites I stumbled upon this blog post. A simple tutorial on how to make a knock-off version of the Williams-Sonoma Pumpkin Patch wreath priced at $99.95. The original blog post I saw about it said they could make it for $22.75.
Since I had a shopping trip to "the big city" and hour away ;). I decided I'd look out for some of these craft supplies, because I liked the wreath, and it looked like a fun project to do (Not like I need more projects).

Williams Sonoma Wreath 

I found 2 packages of 8 faux mini pumpkins at Walmart on clearance for $3.00 each.
I then stopped in a JoAnn's and found the grapevine wreath for $4.99, bag of Spanish Moss for $2.49 (had about half left over too), paid $3.49 for glue and already had some ribbon.
My total cost for supplies to make this wreath was $16.97. But considering I didn't use all the glue, and moss, It was actually less than that! There were a few leaves that came with the pumpkins that I glued on mine also.

This was my first time making a wreath. It was fun. I really like the way mine turned out, and I am pleased I got such a lovely wreath for not much money. I actually like mine much better than it's "inspiration".

Autumn morning hike

Wednesday morning my husband and I took a day hike up a canyon outside town. A quick 30 minute drive to the canyon, and a 4 mile hike round trip! 

The night before as we got our day packs ready, we were aware it was expected to be a very cold day. High temperatures were expected to be in the 50's. 

I enjoy hiking, but like the conditions to be just-so. I was afraid it would a bitterly cold, miserable hike. (Not to mention I would most likely be very sore from my 3 mile run the day before).

We bundled up in thermal base layers, long sleeves, scarves & jackets. 

Contrary to what I had expected it was a gorgeous morning! It was cold, but warm clothing makes all the difference. We were quickly shedding jackets just after the first half mile. With a clear blue sky, no wind, and accelerated heart-rates we kept very comfortable!

I am soo pleased we did take a hike! The autumn colors were breath-taking! And the time together and conversation was wonderful!

My favorite part was walking over a blanket of bright colored leaves and hearing them crunch under my feet. That, combined with listening to the clear, spring water running down the canyon I was overwhelmed with the beauty that surrounded me.

The striking contrast of bright, bold colors against the brown, high desert, sage brush-covered hills. 

It was a glorious morning! I quickly forgot how cold it was and couldn't get enough of the autumn beauty! 

No one but my God could paint such a unique, lovely picture! The beauty of His creation never ceases to amaze me! I am in awe and humbled every time I get out and behold His handiwork.

"By the Word of the LORD the heavens were made;

and by the breath of his mouth all their host.

He gathers the waters of the sea as a heap; 

he puts the deeps in storehouses.

Let all the earth fear the LORD; 

let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!

For he spoke, and it came to be;

he commanded, and it stood firm."

Psalm 33:6-9