As the weather warms up, my exuberant plans to furnish the house I am nowhere near owning moves to the outdoors.  Through hours of browsing site after site of home furnishings, I can’t help but be drawn to the furniture made specifically to improve your outdoor living space.  A living room is no longer the inner portion of your house where the TV is stationed; rather,it is an outdoor sanctuary, complete with soft, pillow-y, modern sofas and sectionals paired with lounge chairs, fire pits, and so much more.

To help you in your quest to make your outdoor space a part of your living space, I’ve gathered some of my favorite pieces together.  A girl can dream!

From Top to Bottom, Left to Right:  Open-Frame Daybed Mattress from West Elm; Capri Round Lounger from Pottery Barn; Tillary Outdoor Modular Seating from West Elm; Resort Outdoor Sectional from CB2; Palmetto All-Weather Wicker Round Coffee Table from Pottery Barn; Square Metal Lounger from West Elm.

Many of you are probably preparing for your first Thanksgiving as a couple.  If you’re lucky enough to be hosting the big day, you’ve scoured the Internet and your mom’s recipe book for the perfectly prepared turkey.  But, just in case you’re not quite sure you’ve got it right, here are a few tips to make sure your first Thanksgiving is a huge success!

Thanksgiving Dinner Invitation from Tiny Prints, Photo Courtesy of Hostess With the Mostess

-Take it from me–Pick and choose your dishes carefully. You may want to have everything from mashed potatoes to sweet potatoes to green beans to, well…you name it (I know, because I did).   But, if you go overboard, you’ll not only be overworked, you’ll be overstuffed!  Pick your favorite dishes and make them well.  You’ll be pleased that you did!

-Hit the grocery store early. Things DO sell out and the stores can be insane!  Have your menu prepared so you know exactly what to buy.

-When purchasing a turkey, the rule of thumb is to have 1 to 1 1/4 pounds of turkey per guest. If you are having a massive feast, try roasting two smaller birds.  Turkeys 12 pounds or less tend to be juicier and there’s less chance of overcooking.  Don’t forget to factor in leftovers!

-You will need 24 hours per 5 pounds of turkey to thaw. Make sure you set our your turkey with enough time to spare! For some great tips on thawing and cooking your turkey safely, visit Turkey Basics.

-Buy some pre-made items. No, I’m not kidding.  Why make an elaborate pumpkin pie when your local bakery probably can make it just as well, or maybe even better?  It will save you time and stress.

Do you have any tips on making Thanksgiving the best that it can be?