“It was one of those perfect English autumnal days
which occur more frequently in memory than in life…”
Author P.D. James
Oh, may it not be so!
Autumn gives us every opportunity to live an authentic life. Yet how easy it is to miss the little things in the pursuit of a “perfect” life! An authentic life is made up of recognizing beautiful moments in an imperfect world. We must discipline ourselves to linger even for a moment on those things so they will become emblazoned in our memory like a snapshot in a tattered scrapbook.
20 Little Things To Treasure in Autumn
- Quiet dinners by the fire
- Reading mystery novels in darkened rooms
- Flannel sheets at the end of a long day
- Candles Flickering
- Smelling cinnamon, oranges & cloves
- Pumpkins
- Roasts, Potatoes & Carrots
- Fluffy feather beds on a cold night
- Watching movies snuggled in soft blankets
- Cozy socks
- Pie in the oven
- Warm crackling wood stoves
- Squash with buttered brown sugar
- Chili and corn bread smothered in honey
- Wind blowing through leaves
- Glow of lamps through windows
- Laughter filling a room
- Scrabble and popcorn
- Caramel apples
- Family
Photos: Ralph Lauren, last photo Ralph Lauren via House Beautiful
Related Posts: Fall Nesting Week (hundreds of Fall ideas!!)
Creative Ways to Decorate Naturally
Make your own list of 20 Little Things and share them with all of us via Mr. Linky! Blogging friend at Beautifully Imperfect made her list and that is where I realized we all might want to add our own inspiration! So, in her honor, she’ll be the first on Mr. Linky!
INSTRUCTIONS FOR MR. LINKY: Create a list of your “20 Little Things” things that inspire you in Autumn and post them on your blog! Put a link back to this post from your 20 Things post so that your friends will be able to take part too! Then be sure to put your own post on Mr. Linky! Please link DIRECTLY to your 20 Little Things post, not to your general blog address. It is confusing to find your post later on if you don’t link directly to it!
NOTE: If you had a post here and it has disappeared, it is because you linked directly to a home page and not to your 20 Little Things Post! I deleted about ONE THIRD of all these links due to linking to a home page. Luckily we still have 100 more to look at!
Powered by… Mister Linky’s Magical Widgets.
Hi, I'm Melissa. This is where I share inspiration for creating a simple, authentic and beautiful home.
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love this!
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such a cozy post!
brandis last blog post..You wanted to know…
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loove the warm autumn colours. Smells like caramel apples. Hope you are well! =))
laissezfaires last blog post..Bang-bags sale
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I can’t even begin to tell you how much your blog is inspiring me. I went out today and bought four huge pots of Autumn colured mums. I loved this. Especially the scrabble and popcorn. The best things in life really are the simple things. Thanks for the reminder.
Mavens last blog post..The Lemon Blog
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Morning Melissa,
What a gorgeous snuggly post – I love Autumn!! Okay I have tagged you for ’7 Obscure things about me’ meme – hope that’s ok?
Liz@VioletPosys last blog post..Tagged – 7 Obscure things about me
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Oh yes! yes! yes! I love them all. Add to the list Mums and bonfires and roasting marshmallows:>)
Kathys last blog post..What’s New?
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i am dying over those plates!
i knew that all had to be RL, it just had that look!
but those plates….dear Lord!
cynthias last blog post..pumpkin spice latte…
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terrific textures!
teaorwines last blog post..Tampa Treats
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What a wonderful list! I just might have to make my own today. The pictures look so cozy…I love the table at the end. Beautiful.
Kristens last blog post..A Calling Crisis
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Wonderful list of some of my most favorite things of fall. And I so want those plates!
Ceekays last blog post..Show and Tell – My Annies
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Mmmm, watching a movie under cozy blankets and hot chili.
Janets last blog post..Fall Fun for the Weekend!
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I love your post…I read about it at Nesting Place! I love carmel apples and fire crackling! What a great reminder to what is coming!
Have a great weekend!
-Sandy Toes
Debbies last blog post..The neighbors are watching…
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Such a beautiful bedroom, who wouldn’t love to be in that room? I love the list, now all I need is a cup of tea and some time to relax in that gorgeous bedroom. Karen
Karens last blog post..Hopeful Friday
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Just had to know those were Ralph’s. Love ‘em and him! Wonderful post, Melissa!
Pats last blog post..~Back Porch Autumn~
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Ahhh….I just want to snuggle in that big bed of yours, eating off those plates… never to appear again…at least for a few days.
Jen@Balancing Beauty and Bedlams last blog post..4 Meals in 4 Minutes Homemade Gourmet give away
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I LOVE the dishes!
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This was a truly inspiring blog today! I drooled over the photos and then immediately added artichokes to my grocery list so I can do the cool artichoke as a place card holder idea for a dinner party this weekend! Greta photos, Merci!
The Antiques Diva
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why does this make me hungry? Now I wish there really WAS a pie in my oven. hmmm…must…bake…this…weekend…
Courtney @ Nesting Instinctss last blog post..my craftiness (in more ways than one!)
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I recently found your website and can’t tell you what a lifesaver it has been for me. Not only have you put a name to what I’ve been searching for this past year (Authentic Living) but I found you at a time when I most need you !
I’m moving into a new home next week and find my movers bringing my mid-century furniture which was chosen for my last home (an “Eichler) to my one-year old new California “Tuscan” or “New Traditional” flavored home. Help!
BTW, I couldn’t help but blog and link to you on my own website: Go-Go Mommy. I heart “The Inspired Room”!
Go-Go Mommys last blog post..First Day of School! – Part 2
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I came by from Nesting Place and I LOVE all your treasured Autumn things!! The pictures are FABULOUS and I am just drooling over them!! So comfy, cozy and Fall-ish!
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Oh, Melissa, this just makes me want to curl up with a steaming cup of apple cider! I LOVE autumn!!
PS-Glad to have found you on twitter …
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Melissa, I love your blog and I think this is one of your best posts ever! I’ve been struggling with perfection vs authenticity. Every time I do, I read your blog and remember what it’s all about. Autumn is almost perfection here in Central Vermont. I’m celebrating it with a few of your cosy ideas!
Kathy at Shocking Pink Threads last blog post..Seeing Red
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I love all of those Melissa
Makes me very melancholy for hubby-he is out of town working 
Must keep busy to make the time fly by faster!
Bella
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UNA MERAVIGLIA!!
BUON FINE SETTIMANA
MARY
marys last blog post..una valigia in soffitta………..
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That’s a lovely list! Much nicer than the cold we all have here. I’ll have to start enjoying some of them when I’m feeling better.
jens last blog post..Chutney and Pickles
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“Living an authentic life rather than the perfect life.” What an amazing quote…..I’m adding that one to my quote journal.
Love, love, love it! Words to live by…..
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Melissa Woman ~ I love this post and these beauty pauses. Great job woman!
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I love to visit your blog. You always have the most inspiring pictures. I love fall too but living in Phoenix, it still seems like summer. I guess I can daydream.
Debbies last blog post..Another Thankful Thursday
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Autumn colors are my favorite and treasure all the same things you posted. The RL style is top notch and always has been. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a room full of all those pretties. Blessings, karen
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I personally would be very happy to summer all year round… but you sure make fall appealing and give me a few things to look forward to! Thanks!
Gidgets last blog post..And the winner is…
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I love this time of year too! You’ve brought out the very finest for the year and I loved looking at your blog!
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Thanks for the Happy Birthday wishes
YES! I loooove that book. My goodness, I’ve read it so many times, and I’ve actually read it in one whole day. Francis Rivers is amazing, she brings the story to live and shows God’s amazing heart. Love it.!
Lauren @ Team Giless last blog post..In Honor of Birthday Weekend…
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My favorite time of year for the very reasons you listed. Autumn is so cozy.
Its_Lilys last blog post..Grosgrain: Make Believe Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!
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Okay, so you made me cry….I must be hormonal :} {the post just brought back sweet memories}
Beautiful, beautiful.
I think I need you to move next door, so you could give me advise on how to decorate “Autumn Minimalist style” I have a very little bungalow I’m attempting to make feel like home- with out bringing a whole truck load of stuff to it.
Sorry for the rambling- Loved your post today
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Ok, you made me like fall. I am still loyal to summer though!
darlenes last blog post..British Colonial
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Ralph is such a genius at creating the perfect mood, isn’t he?
And I loved your word descriptions of fall. Just the most sublime season, for all the reasons you list!
Delightful post, Melissa! Happy weekend to you!
Pamelas last blog post..
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I have had corn bread smothered in honey…
I have had loads of chili (and lived to tell about it)…
I have never had the 2 together—especially with honey! I might just have to try this. I think this would count for “sweet and savory!”
BTW, I have been leaving you comments on Twitter. I just got started thanks to Mel at Mel’s World. I’m not sure that you are seeing my posts. I’m still finding my way. But, I did tell you that I voted for your site and for the site of your friend. I hope you WIN!
Tootles, KJ
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Oh yay! I’m so glad you let us join in on the fun with Mr. Linky! And I am honored to be first. I can’t wait to read others lists. Thanks for putting that up, Melissa!
Kristens last blog post..My Cozy Little List
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“These are a few of my favorite things” lovely photos, great post !!
Kathy
ps one more I would add: I love to make a beef stew once the weather turns cooler…oopps one more lol apple picking
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I love this idea! And I really want two armchairs pulled up close to the fireplace with a small table between for romantic fireside dinners!
Lorrie
Lorries last blog post..September Delights
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Great idea, thank you. And it just makes me lust for fall even more
kriss last blog post..20 Things that Inspire Autumn
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Hi Melissa,
I always love to play along. Thanks for reminding me to stop and think about what I really treasure!
Corinne
Corinnes last blog post..20 Little Things To Treasure In Autumn
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Love the post. Made me think too of what I like and to take notice of.
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Wonderful Post!!!!! Fabulous!
Tammy Winsteads last blog post..Self Breast Exam Reminder
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I love this time of year! Thanks for the idea to stop and think about WHY I love it so much!
Kirstens last blog post..Fall Treasures
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You are killing me with those photos! I love them all! Houndstooth is my new favorite…I just ordered fabric for two of my wingback chairs in that pattern…can’t wait until it gets here!
Carrie
Buzzings of a Queen Bee!s last blog post..Do I Have a Problem?
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Wow!! It’s like you were inside my head today!
Beautiful photos and what a snuggly, warm fuzzy list you’ve compiled. I defy anyone to find anything on that list that won’t put a smile on their face… Well done!!
Happy Autumn!
Joys last blog post..{a notable nursery}
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Oh I can’t agree more – I love those fall nights.
please sirs last blog post..Dear Diary
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Just off on a Spring holiday….. but to the snow…… so I love this post. It’s never really cold enough here for all those lovely things in your list so I will think of you when I grab my book and snuggle into a warm bed after a cold day. A-M xx
A-Ms last blog post..Spring Holiday Giveaway
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Tartans, and checks, and herringbone, OH MY! All those pictures are absolutely divine! Ralph Lauren has truly mastered the quintessential fall look. I love your list!
Mrs. Bs last blog post..Privacy Please!
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Great idea to add a Mr Linky – I’ve popped my ideas up
x
Liz@VioletPosys last blog post..20 Little Things…
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Thanks for giving me a reason to explore the lovely side of Fall rather than griping about it!
Jessica (from It’s my life…)s last blog post..What’s so great about the Fall?
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well, we’re all in love with the list, our own lists, and rl. beautiful photos! kind of the epitome of what fall is. ahhh fall! my fave
jkj
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What a great post! I will be back to visit Mr. Linky! Great photos too.
I want you to know that you have really had an impact on me, Melissa, and I have put the Authentic Living button on my blog. It’s nice to know that an authentic life is not something that I alone have a hunger for.
Bettsis last blog post..Farewell to Summer, My Enemy
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Love your list, I love fall, the color the warmth, the smell, I’m so ready, but can we skip winter and then just go to spring???
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Oh I love all the pictures. Can I come sit in those rooms =) My list is up.
Laurels last blog post..20 Things to Treasure in Autumn
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Great list! It suddenly went from like 80 degrees to low 60s in a day here, so as I type I’m happily getting ready to embrace # 8.
laura @ the shorehouse.s last blog post.."Stay away from the honey bear."
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This post made me SO happy!
Minnesotamoms last blog post..Sweetness
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Today your room here is truly inspiring with all the lovely pictures and your list of blessings. I like all your authentic moments!
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I love your post and your beautiful pictures from RL! One of my favorite designers.
I did the link and posted for my 20 favorite Autumn things.
That was really fun!
Jody
Jodys last blog post..20 Little Things To Treasure In Autumn
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Melisaa
Iam feeling the nip in the New York air, and as much as I love summer, Fall is just so wonderful!
Taras last blog post..Fitness Update (after the brownies!)
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Fall is my favorite season! Everything about it makes me smile!
Terris last blog post..Hi Ho! Hi Ho! It’s thrifting we shall go…..
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What a beautiful way to get inspired for Autumn!
Small Green Corners last blog post..Positive thoughts
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The slouchy teacup candles has me wanting fall to come in slowly–so I can savor it.
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This was a great idea! I followed my friend Maven over here and posted 20 things for myself. These lists are wonderful. You mentioned a lot of good food. :]
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Thanks for this post! Fall has always been my favorite season, and its nice to see that others love it too!
Angelas last blog post..Twenty Things I Love About Fall…
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Melissa, what fun and a great way to remind us to “stop and smell the roses”! or autumn leaves…whichever the case may be!
Happy Autumn!
Kathleen Elliss last blog post..My List of 20 Little Things to Treasure in Autumn…
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Thanks for giving me the incentive to slow down & remember just why I love Autumn so much!
Jinxs last blog post..Why do I love Autumn?
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Each and every bed looks sooo inviting and I just got up!
Laura Ingalls Gunns last blog post..Healing Havens part 3
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Melissa, I participated but have to say it was a bit hard to come up with 20. I could probably come up with 40 for summer though! LOL
darlenes last blog post..It’s Fall Y’all!
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What a great idea and exactly what I needed this Saturday morning.
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I shared my 20 things in a scrappage layout… it was fun to remember all the things I love to do at this time of years…
Kristeens last blog post..I see a Heart … and the winners are!
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What a fun post!
I so just did mine.
Meghans last blog post..20 Little Things to Treasure About Autumn
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What a great idea! I adore fall
Julaines last blog post..My 20 Little things to treasure in the Fall….
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I added my list along with an easy decorating tip! Fun!
-Amy
Amy from Texass last blog post..Apples 101
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Just can’t resist this opportunity. Thanks for getting us started.
Staceys last blog post..Work in Progress
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I LOVE your blog! Thanks to share all that beauty and good taste!
Come to visit my blog, I’ll be glad to have you there!
Ana Balbinot
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I finally have mine up.
Monkey Giggless last blog post..“20 Little Things” that inspire me in Autumn
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What a great challenge. It’s nice to find so many new blogs. Another wonderful treat for your readers.
Have a great weekend!
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20 little things . . .
making soups
baking bread to eat with the soup
wearing my long turtle neck flannel dress at night
and in the early morning too
season tickets for the theater
working on a special xmas present for my children
the turning of autumn leaves
simmering dinner in the slow cooker
going back to art classes
lighting candles in the morning and the evening too
knitting soft soft scarves
wearing them
making quince jelly
watching videos on rainy weekends
making scorched corn pudding for Thanksgiving
cutting and drying hydrangeas
clearing the garden for winter
planting tulips
wearing thick socks on cold nights
eating the jam I made in summer
Françoises last blog post..In France 1
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Love this post and had fun making my list..I can’t wait for our cooler weather to be here and open all the doors and window and let the fresh air in!
Pennys last blog post..20 Things I Love About Fall…
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Neat Post! I enjoyed sharing my favorites parts of fall! Thanks!
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Can I just say that I am LOVING, LOVING your lists? Every time I read one of yours I find tons more I love about fall.
This little activity is making me appreciate the season even more. I even baked banana bread tonight I got so inspired to BAKE! And, I wore a sweater!
Keep the ideas coming.
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Hey Melissa, boy this has been fun. I was gone all day, but had this on my mind thinking of all the wonderful blessings of fall. And yes I am inspired to bake something with cinnamon in it! Blessings,
Debbie
Debbies last blog post..Some Rooster Lovin’
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Your list makes me feel so warm and cozy!
Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolatess last blog post..Would You Like Chocolate With That? ~ YuMMy Bars
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Love all the inspiring ideas for Autumn. We are going into the gorgeous spring sunshine down here but Autumn has always been my favourite so I’ll have to remember these for next year
Love, love, love the Ralph Lauren style. Just gorgeous! And that beach house in the previous post is amazing.
nels last blog post..change of pace…
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Ahhh, I love it all!
jens last blog post..Why Did I Do IT?
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I love this upcoming cozy time of year…the sights, scents, and sounds make it especially wonderful.
Teresa@PlumWater Cottages last blog post..20 Little Things
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Hi Melissa, Thanks for sharing your favorite things of Autumn. This morning I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s lists and making my own as well. P.S. I love your blog and I look forward to reading your posts when they land in my in-box. Charlotte
Charlotte at Simply Divine Christmass last blog post..20 Things To Treasure In Autumn
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This was great! I love fall!!
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Love your list and the pictures. I added a list on our blog. So much fun seeing all of the lists.
For some reason my comment wouldn’t go through last night.
Happy Fall!
Christinas last blog post..20 Little Things to Treasure in Autumn
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Oh, I will have to join in on this for sure, in a couple of days.. I need to compile my list… There are so many fall oves my heart will explode!! How fun!! xoxoxo
I am sooo in the moooood!!
A Fanciful Twists last blog post..A Halloween Party!
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truly a fabulous time of the year! Love your favorite things abuot fall-all cozy & warm & inviting!
chris
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I just added my “20″ list to the dining room table post, at the back porch.
Pats last blog post..~New Dining Room Table~
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Thanks for a lovely idea! I have always loved autumn and how nice to sit down and reflect all the beautiful aspects of the season!
Lillys last blog post..Making Apple Cider
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It is nice to have a look at the lists. You have posted some nice pictures on your post.
Sarah x
Sarahs Houses last blog post..Treasuring Autumn
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I love how the colors of Fall blend so seamlessly together – burgundy, berry, orange, caramel, gold – and how they convey the warmth of fires, and the taste of yummies like pumpkins, apples, cider, squash… Really loving reading everyone’s lists. Thanks for your Autumnal inspiration!
Annas last blog post..Twenty Moments Of Autumn Loveliness
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Melissa, you must have been reading my mind. I LOVE Autumn. We always start projects in the autumn when the weather is cooler and we can open the windows. The muffins in the one photo are making me hungry and I have already had a berry Stella and a Starbucks! Thank you for your post and the photos.
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Autumn is my favorite season, so I knew that I had to join up on this one! Great post!
Angie @ Many Little Blessingss last blog post..Visit me over at Blissfully Domestic Today with a Recipe…
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love these pictures!
meg duerksens last blog post..why i hate MySpace…
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