I collected them a few weeks ago during the great yard raking of 2009.

Then I found a big ‘ol book (which in our house is not difficult)…

…flipped to somewhere in the middle (I recall the word “paltry” on the page…maybe Mr. Webster was trying to tell me something), and lined it with paper towels.

I gave the leaves a good rinse to get any gunk off, and then laid them inside, making sure they were nice and flat.

And then I told Mr. Webster to stuff it where the sun don’t shine.

What did I do next?

I put the book on a table and forgot about it. Lucy dutifully reminded me six days later by discovering the book and pulling it down on top of her head.

Luckily it was just the puny Webster’s and not the OED.

Almost a week later, they were nice and flat and dry–perfect for making cards!

Here’s how you do it:

Grab some Mod Podge and a foam brush (a bristle brush would work too).

Get some paper–whatever floats your boat. I had this gorgeous ivory card stock left over from our friend’s beautiful wedding.

Brush a bit of Mod Podge onto the back of the leaf.

Make sure it’s got a nice thin coat.

Then flip in on over and center it on the card. Or off-center it. Whatever makes you want to sing It’s Raining Men.

Next, spread a nice thin coat over the top of the leaf. Make sure to give the edges a good seal.

E voila! Now don’t get your panties in a wad at this point–the mod podge will dry clear.

See?

I also did some mini cards while I was at it.

Cute, eh?

I love fall.

These would also make great Thanksgiving place cards and they could not be easier to make.

Happy crafting!

And P.S….the memo boards are available at my etsy shop right here.

I LOVE fall. Fall means hot apple cider and pumpkins and pumpkin-flavored donuts and pumpkin lattes and finally getting to wear peacoats.

Fall also means the last time we’ll have to do yard work until the spring. I love yard work and I’ll miss it so.

And if you believe that I’ll tell you another one.

But my favorite part of fall? Our gorgeous dogwood when it sheds its leaves.

My least favorite part of fall?

You guessed it. And boy oh boy do I have a lot of leaves to rake this time of year. 4 deciduous trees+1 yard in October=1 tired gal.

Fortunately, it was a gorgeous sunny day and I was able to snap a few photos.

Purdy.

Two yard waste bins, three blisters and two cups of coffee later, I’m done.

Also, I saved a few leaves. Look for them in a DIY project later this week.

Happy autumn!