A Spring Sampler

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A Spring Sampler

Spring is in the air, or at least we all wish it were! If you'd like to get rid of the winter doldrums and usher in some life to your home, here are some easy steps you can take now, before the crocuses bloom.

· Put out several bouquets and arrangements of "silk" flowers in bright colors. Throw in some variegated greenery and you have an instant brightener.

· Put away the woolen throws and bring out your lighter ones for a quick pick-me-up. The same goes for your table linens; it's not too early to dress your dining room for Memorial Day houseguests.

· If your draperies are heavy and dark, shop the sales for some sheers and taffeta panels. Discount stores are great resources for inexpensive panels and curtains. Find something light with a beaded fringe to add a little sparkle and a bit of whimsy.

· Scented candles are an easy way to lure your mind to tropical shores. If you'd rather not have an open flame, use candle chimneys or, better yet, a fragrance lamp that burns clean and can diffuse scent throughout your home.

Here you have four simple ways to entice your senses and bring some spring into your home.

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You may publish this article with the article and resource box intact and unchanged provided any links are hyperlinked. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated, Lisa@HGPgal.com.

Lisa DeClue is a WAHM and owner of Decorating with HGPgal, a resource and information website featuring home and garden décor, decorating tips & accessories, collaborative articles, a DecoForum and a monthly newsletter and prize drawing. http://www.HGPgal.com

In The News:

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AP - Pushed by fellow Democrats, President-elect Barack Obama agreed to modest changes in his proposed tax cuts on Friday after inviting lawmakers to "just show me" ideas for fixing an economy shedding jobs at an alarming rate. Democratic congressional officials said that Obama aides came under pressure in closed-door talks to jettison or significantly alter a proposed tax credit for creating jobs.

Ill. House impeaches governor, who vows to fight (AP)

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Citigroup director Robert Rubin resigns as adviser (AP)

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Texas death row inmate pulls out eye, eats it (AP)

AP - A Texas death row inmate with a history of mental problems pulled out his only good eye and told authorities he ate it. Andre Thomas, 25, was arrested for the fatal stabbings of his estranged wife, their young son and her 13-month-old daughter in March 2004. Their hearts also had been ripped out. He was convicted and condemned for the infant's death.

Rare 'dinky' bird migrates to US for first time (AP)

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AP - Baseball authorized nearly 8 percent of its players to use drugs for ADHD last season, which allowed them to take otherwise banned stimulants. A total of 106 exemptions for banned drugs were given to major leaguers claiming attention deficit hyperactivity disorder from the end of the 2007 season until the end of the 2008 season, according to a report released Friday by the sport's independent drug-testing administrator.

Israel, Hamas press on with Gaza war (Reuters)

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Illinois House votes to impeach Gov. Blagojevich (Reuters)

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Reuters - A top bank industry group said on Friday that it opposes an agreement between Citigroup Inc and Democratic senators that would rewrite U.S. bankruptcy law to help troubled mortgage borrowers avoid foreclosure, saying it could make home loans more expensive.

Gaza conflict set to enter third week as ceasefire appeal ignored (AFP)

AFP - Israel's offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip was set to enter its third week on Saturday, with both sides brushing off a UN appeal to halt devastating attacks that have claimed over 800 lives.

Somali pirates say they have released Saudi supertanker (AFP)

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A Spring Sampler

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