THE GARGOYLE GARDEN

The gardens around the Manor seem to be coming to life, and some have since been renamed the Gargoyle Garden.

I've added a few new varieties of plants and herbs, this year, and I'm looking forward to seeing the results over the next few months.

Lots of purples and black among the rocks and gargoyles. Look closely, and see if you can find them all......

It's still a work in progress, I've got pumpkins on a stick and Halloween pansies planted, and they should make their arrival by May.

A haunted garden theme would be a wonderful idea for a party this year.... don't you think?

MEET AGATHA

Yes, I admit it.... I have an e-bay problem. I've blogged about it before, and yes, I'm the Halloween Queen and I'm an e-bay-oholic.

Meet the newest addition to the Manor. It's Agatha.

She's a doll! Well, a "Living Dead Doll" to be more specific! And she's so cute, I can hardly stand it!!! I've been wanting one of these babies for such a long time, and some of them can be quite expensive. Thank goodness for e-bay.... and what a bargian! It's my lucky (e)day!

If you've never seen Living Dead Dolls before, well you need to check them out, because everyone should have at least one doll-baby to care for....

Be sure to check out the Living Dead Dolls website.... but be warned, once you see these creepy cuties.... you won't be able to help yourself!

CHECK OUT THIS WEEK'S DEVILISH DELIGHTS RECIPE!

How great is this idea? This will definitely get the thumbs up from all the kiddo's, cuz it's extremely high on the "eeeeeeewwwwwww" factor! And it's one of those great ideas, I wish I would have thought of!

All you'll need is some cinnamon graham crackers, a can of white frosting, and some red gel-icing.

For instructions on making the Bloody Band-Aid Treats, log on to my Devilish Delights Recipe Page!

Happy Monday!

FRANKENSTIEN NECKLACE

Happy Friday, fellow Halloweenies!

You all know how much I looooooove Halloween jewelry, and here's a good one! I love this idea and it looks really amazing!

I think I'd really have to put my mind to it, to try and make this necklace.... but why would I do that, when I can get this awesome one on Esty, from artist Peter Von Erickson?

This necklace is so cool, I'd want to wear it all year long. I think it would be a great accessory for that little black dress you've got in your closet!

Check out Peter Von Erickson's profile!

MAKE A BURLAP WREATH

Today is a lesson in "Halloween Decorating 101". And one of the easiest ways to get in the decorating mood, is to start with something simple. Like a wreath!!!

Wreaths are super easy to make, because there's really no right or wrong way to do it. It's whatever appeals to you, and your decorating style. (Even if your style is macabre, like mine!)This design is so simple, it would look great on the front door, or anywhere you want to spruce up a bit.

Another thing to think about, is even though the Halloween Queen has the Manor decked out all year long.... you may not want to do that, (that's ok, not everyone is as nutty as I am) but you could also adapt this wreath to your personal decorating style. Using regular brown burlap and colorfull fabric ribbon to complement your home decor. Remember, with this style you can make the wreath as plain or fancy as you like.

And if you're not to confident in the wreath-making department, but you're looking for a not-too-complicated wreath design, this is a great tutorial. Still not convinced? Trust me..... Just using a few simple things, like burlap and ribbon, you’ll be able to create a stylish piece of festive decor!

For a super-easy tutorial, check out Classy Clutter.net!

FIRST CRAFT PROJECT OF 2013!

So are you ready? Come on.... I know what you're thinking.... But I figured this would be a great project to get the crafty juices flowing, it's easy, relatively quick to complete, and they look fabulous! They're SHADOW PUPPETS!

Not only are shadow puppets fun for Halloween, but you know that you could apply the same process to other holidays, as well. (But we all know that Halloween is the only one that really matters, don't we?)

You just need a few supplies:
several wood dowels, thin cardboard (or black construction paper), black acrylic craft paint, glue gun and glue sticks

Here's what you'll do:
~Trace designs from pattern or template (or design your own!)
~Cut out with exacto knife (or safety scissors, if little ones will be working on this craft project)
~Paint front and back sides with black paint (let dry!)
~Hot glue the dowels to the back of the shadow puppet (and you're done!)

Now, if you'd like more detailed instructions and printable templates, check out the Chez Beeper Bebe blog!

See... now that wasn't so bad after all.... was it?

Yaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwnnnnnnn......

It seems it's that time of year again.

I have awoke from a long needed slumber, after our last All Hallows Eve celebration, shaken off the cobwebs, and am ready to start anew.

That being said, the gardens around the Manor have begun to take shape, and I believe will be quite incredible, come the Halloween Season.

Most of my faithful followers may recall my blogging about "Halloween Pansies" and "Pumpkins on a Stick", and I'm quite excited to say..... I will be planting seeds this weekend!

So, it's time to polish the cauldrons, and brush up on your spells.... there's only 211 days until Halloween!