By Leslie Linsley

Author of “Nantucket Island Living” (Monicelli)

Before the holiday season begins in earnest, it’s a good time for a little household assessment. Maybe you need a new appliance, or time to clean the old one.  I was up for a fun shopping trip and decided to go aisle by aisle at Marine Home Center, to see what I needed. Starting in Housewares I first checked out what was new in cleaning products and small appliances. Sometimes we live with things that are past their prime, like my dishrack, but never get around to replacing. 

As soon as I imagined entertaining for the holidays, candles, turkey platters, roasting pans, casserole dishes and even a new dishwasher were on my radar. I found myself lingering over the new and improved cleaning products.  I was so excited to find the best furniture cleaner I didn’t know existed. Hint: It’s in the Home Furnishings department.

Before a shopping trip, go through your home, room by room to see what needs fixing, replacing or overhauling. Imagine the parties and family get-togethers you might host. Take stock of everything you need from glassware to extra seating. Here are some suggestions to get you going: 



1.     Check out the amazing variety of area carpets. You might find the one to instantly refresh a room. 

2.     Be creative with an unusual centerpiece for Thanksgiving and choose candles from a myriad of fall colors. Idea: Press large leaves with a warm iron to place under the candle holders. Use acorns, chestnuts and branches to create a centerpiece in a basket or a pretty dish.

3.     Treat overnight guests with fresh linens, new pillows and towels.

4.     When did you last replace old dishtowels and potholders?

5.     I fell in love with every small appliance I saw. How did I live without a French coffee press?

6.     I got distracted by the beautifully wrapped soaps and bought them for stocking stuffers and hostess gifts. Why were these items not on my radar?

7.     And finally, nothing refreshes a room like a new paint color. Check out this season’s new offerings. I’m thinking about Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace for my bathroom. By the way, I DID get a new dishrack!!