Cool, crisp October days are here, and the nights have become chilly but clear. It's that time of year when the fall colors leave us awestruck with the sheer beauty. Mother Nature sprays yellow, orange and soothing brown hues across the landscape for all to enjoy! It's time for marshmallow roasts, campfires and hayrides. In just a few days, it will be time for trick or treating.

Soon, November will quietly slip in, and it will be time to upgrade the linen closet with thick, plush, warm blankets for your family. It's "hunker down for winter" time once again.

Let me start out by saying that all blankets are not created equal. There are so many to choose from nowadays, it's hard to decipher one from another. Allow me to describe the differences for you, and make your blanket choices easier this year. I will elaborate on the differences and uses of different blankets for you in the next few updates.

Polar fleece throw blankets are made of very soft polyester fibers, and are very lightweight. They're decorative and whimsical, yet serve a purpose. Don't let the lightness or thinness of the fabric fool you, these are pretty warm little blankets. Not to mention, you can change the look of a room by tossing a blanket over your sofa, adding a splash of color and whimsy to your room. It's an instant, very low priced livingroom pick-me-up!

Kids love polar fleece blankets because of the colorful images depicted on them, and they can carry them around easily, due to their light weight. They're excellent for TV watching, playing video games, taking a much loved blankie to grandma's house, or travelling on a scary airline flight. They're easy to take along for camping, or sleepovers, as well.

RV'ers also love these blankets made of fleece because they're compact, easy to store, and easy to access. They're great for late night driving or lounging in your living space. Tossing a polar fleece blanket over your shoulders on a chilly night by the campfire is also very cozy!