With a nephew on the way and my sister’s belly growing like a pumpkin, a fall shower at home with friends and family will be a treasure of a time.

Of course I’m having to sneak in some decorating ahead of time - in between a porch installation, landscape project and a looming book deadline! Making hay while the sun shines and the key to a productive hive is productive worker bees! Jason and Sami have been super help, and I just can’t wait to finish the flowers on Friday and have the shower on Saturday.

It’ll be fun!

I firmly believe that there are three spots in your home that need attention when entertaining- the front door or whatever the main entry is. This is your home's first and last visual impression.

Next is the mantel- jam up and jelly tight! Make that focal point of the room dynamite and don't fuss over decorating everywhere else- just make sure the room is clean and the mantel fabulous!

Last, your main table- that arrangement I'm making on Friday. Let your main food table or gift table or whatever it may be for the event be a show stopper!

Those three things make party decorating a breeze. One other spot not to forget is the powder room- a great little bouquet or pretty plant is always apropos there.