Sure, you’re forced to take down the ghosts and fuzzy spiders (news flash: your neighbors are pissed if you haven’t done so), but some of the seasonal elements we put up to get in the mood  should endure until the end of the year, if not beyond.

Here is my list of favorite affordable decorative displays for the festive and frugal in all of us.

1. Lanterns

Rice paper lanterns bobbing outside (with solar lights) or in your rooms make a huge, happy statement. I love the cylinder shapes with Asian motifs like the …

Tags: beeswax , candles , cards , Christmas , coasters , Conserve , decor , decorating , dishes , fabric , fall , flowers , foliate , glassware , green , Halloween , home , house , lanterns , organic , peach glass , photo display , photo walls , photos , pinecones , pumpkins , recycle , reuse , rice paper , runners , seashells , Seasons , sew , stringing cards , table design , Thanksgiving , vintage , winter

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Must be those years as a kid in Palm Springs that instilled my passion for succulent gardens that glow at dusk.

Whether opting for sun powered pathway lanterns or natural candles, you are cutting down on electricity while letting your prized garden bask in the limelight.

Combine them all for a low energy, highly-illuminated spot, where you and the mosquitoes can bite on juicy snacks and drink up the evening breeze.

Here are 10 that make a mark:

The color-changing Chalice solar path lights are said to last up to 30,000 hours (about 15 years) and automatically turn

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Tags: alternative , decor , entertaining , garden , lamps , lanterns , lighting , solar power

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If you’re like me, spring cleaning extends to the great outdoors and through the garden gates. My yard, when tidied up from winter’s wrath and shameful neglect, holds endless potential for summer meals and glider chit-chat.

First, the fence is getting mended from radical storm damage and painted a fresh coat of low-VOC white; the veggie garden is being cleared of nondescript duds that resemble artichokes and will soon be replanted with good intent; the surfeit of sports paraphernalia is being rounded up and tossed in a bin while scattered shoes and flip-flops …

Tags: eco outdoor lighting , garden , lanterns , summer entertainin

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