Speaking of gifts, it is good to know that there are some things you should never ever take as a housewarming gift.

For example, be really mindful with food gifts.

If you're known for making something special and delicious, great. But think about the lifestyle and allergies of the recipient.

Don't take something modern if they love antiques. Don't take alcohol if you know they don't drink. Don't take yummy dessert if they're on a diet. You get the picture. Read more

• What Not to Bring for a Housewarming Gift

Photo: (c) Claudio Maciel

It's a good idea to have a gift in hand when you visit a friend's new home. Whether you're inclined toward traditional gifts or something unique and very personal, welcome your friends or neighbors to their new home with a gift that's practical, useful, and a memory-maker.

One nice thing about housewarming gifts is that they don't need to be wrapped. Pull something together, put it in a gift bag or basket, and ring the doorbell.

If you're making a first visit to a family member's new home, you might have had a hand in helping with the move. If so, you might know exactly what they'll need in the new home.

If they've moved from a large home to a smaller one, organization supplies might come in handy. Read more

• Find a Housewarming Gift To Remember

Can you believe there's only one week 'til Thanksgiving? Hopefully you've got almost everything ready. Sailing through these final chores will be a breeze.

Get your Guest Room ready for your house guests.

Prepare your Thanksgiving menu, including all the add-ons, like butter with rolls, cream and sugar with coffee, lemon for the water, and whipped cream with your pumpkin pie. This way, you won't forget anything!

Start to assign tasks to members of your family, so that everyone will participate and feel a part of the day.

If you plan to use a professional florist, this is the time to order online or visit your local florist. Read more

• Countdown To A Perfect Thanksgiving: One Week Left

Photo: (c) Gaston Thauvin

Crisp nights and shorter days are signals of the approaching holiday season. In preparation for seasonal entertaining, now is a great time to freshen up your living space with simple and easy painting ideas.

Debbie Zimmer, of the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute, offers suggestions on how to create a festive atmosphere for each room of your home.

For example, you can use professional faux painting and rich velvet chair covers to give the room a very warm, elegant look without any traditional Christmas colors.

Or, get creative with a color hue from a favorite holiday gift bag. Read more

• Get Your Home Ready to Shine and Sparkle with New Paint Colors

Photo: (c) Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute