Tracy's Territory: HomeGoods is Where the Heart Is!

I do not claim to have any special talents beyond anyone else in the kitchen or at home. But growing up in the '60s, it meant everything to me to someday have a home of my own with wonderful aromas coming out of the kitchen.

That said, I am definitely a risk taker in the kitchen, and my eclectic style in my own home has made me fearless in trying something new.

I have become a huge fan of . I am never in the store for less than two hours when I go. Sometimes I leave with nothing but ideas or inspiration that set the wheels in motion when I am determined to try something new in my own home.

I used to be able to buy an entire bedroom ensemble but in our current state of economy I have learned a few things about design on a budget: LESS IS MORE! And things become extremely interesting when you take risks by, gasp, not painting every room in the house the same color or the coffee table is maple and the chair is stained walnut.

I worked in construction for five years before I was laid off. I ran the options department, and worked with design centers and new homeowners. Working with design centers opened my mind to different ideas. Walking through model homes even before I was employed in the industry was a fun thing to do on the weekends with my sister. 

It is my hope with my column to do a lot of the leg work for you. I will tell you where to buy certain items that I have placed in my own home, as well as try to find the best price. Recipes that beginners will master, favorite desserts and home comforts to look forward to after a long day. So settle in and get ready!

With autumn here, shortly the weather will cool slightly especially in the Inland Empire. We experience warm days throughout November but the nights begin to really chill and this is definitely my favorite time of the year. As a lover of candles, I have discovered a way to burn many at one time without the risk of having candles lit all over the house (which frightens me).

Two years ago The had a sale on chimeneas, you know, the outdoor fireplace. I got mine on sale for $79.99. Instead of placing it outside, I placed in in my family TV room.

At HomeGoods, you will find a wonderful selection of aromatic candles. I have tried every candle from every candle store, but the VERY BEST selection comes from your local HomeGoods. The aisle is filled with fragrant delights to compliment every room of your house. Now make sure that you spice it up a bit: never buy a family of the same candles, mix the scents, such as gardenia and vanilla. Buy tall, thick pillars and smaller candles. I try to stay with the colors that will complement the room in which my chimenea sits. It is a wonderful way to add warmth, aesthetic beauty, wonderful scent and ambiance when you are unable to add a fireplace to that room.

Until next week!