Halloween season is behind us, but before we jump into full Christmas mode, take time to transform your decorating from spooky to autumn. Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away but since I’m not ready to set my table yet, I’ll concentrate on the front door.

Instead of a traditional wreath, I decorated a plaque with flowers and chalk board paint. You can make the message personal (Welcome Grandma!) or hang it indoors and let your guests write their own thoughts.

Start with a large round, flat board. I used a clock I found at Goodwill for $2.99

Give it several of coats of chalkboard paint. Allow it to “cure” according to the directions on the can before writing on it.

Goodwill is a great source for silk flowers and foliage. Remove the flowers from the stems and glue in place. A hot glue gun dries quickly and works best. For symmetry, I started at the lower left (7:00- 8:00) placing the bigger pieces at the bottom. Follow the curve of the plate with fewer and smaller flowers toward the top.

What I love about this idea is the versatility of it. For September, I added crayons, pencils and rulers for back-to-school. October, you can add pumpkins and witches. It’s still fall in November, so replace ghosts with gourds and acorns. Next year, repeat the process!