My kids actually don’t start back to school for a few more weeks, but a lot of my friends and family have kids that are already back, so instead of jumping right into the “leaves and pumpkins” fall type theme, I thought instead I would put up a back-to-school mantel.

I threw it together in about 15 minutes and with only stuff I had lying around. Things like pencils and alphabet blocks came out of the kids’ toy closet:

These apples are actually REAL apples.  (Normally I use wax fruit, but I didn’t feel like scouring the garage for my fake apples.. I was in the middle of watching the Chopped Teen Tournament!)


The kids use this dry erase board to make “Keep Out” signs for their room.. I have to admit, I've lost my cursive skills.

This globe is something I picked up at the flea market (the girls have been begging for a “world”) and so when this one was only $10, I snapped it up.  It isn’t exactly up to date, but it is the world. 
The only thing that required any effort for this setup was the banner from flashcards.  I just used a hole punch and strung them on a ribbon.  
I got the little wallhanging from my mother in law.  It hung in my sister in laws bedroom when she was a kid.  I just LOVE it!

Now, my kids don’t seem to love this vignette as much as I do.  Maybe they don’t want to be reminded that summer vacation is almost over.   And the 5 year old just keeps saying “Mommy.. we don’t need to have those letters up there, I already know my ABCs!”

 That is okay.. Since I’m happy to celebrate the return to school!