Who Doesn't Love a Thanksgiving Table?

I have to admit . . . Thanksgiving may be my favorite holiday. I take the entire week off so I can plan and cook - regardless of how many people will be around the table. It's such a great day of sharing food, drinks, laughter, without the drama of Christmas (which I also celebrate).

And a big part of the fun is setting the table. Although my "theme" usually revolves around the fall, there are still so many ways to bring in different looks and colors. Pumpkins are very often front and center. And why not? There are so many different ways to incorporate them into your table setting. I particularly love them as vases, but they can also hold candles or name tags, be painted or covered in fabrics, or just simply be.

The table can also be very simple if that's what you prefer, with the focus on the food and guests. The first Thanksgiving was rustic, so why shouldn't yours have some of the same elements?  Dish towels as napkins, a burlap runner, scattered pumpkins, pears, and apples and you have a simple, beautiful setting.

Or what about a combination? Muted tones, a more formal runner, burlap napkins, and rustic candles set into pretty florals can all work very well together to create a casually elegant look for you and your guests.

And don't forget the kids! If you want them to sit patiently while the adults dine, make sure they have things to do at their table. A craft paper tablecloth with crayons ensures they will be happy through dessert and beyond!

Whatever you decide to do this Thanksgiving just make sure you focus on the thanks . . . because that's what it's all about.

Happy Thanksgiving!

It's Fall Already?

Really, I mean it. Where does the time go? While the weather in the northeast may not have been too fall-like, it's very clearly fall. Leaves are changing (albeit slowly). The days are getting shorter. And if I try really hard I can smell that fall smell of gently decaying leaves. It's not cold enough for smoke yet, but still . . .

And it will be over before I know it. So I need some fast decorating ideas so the house will feel fall-like, but I'll still have time to enjoy it. And I
thought you might as well.

One of the easiest ideas I know is to place pumpkins and gourds just about anywhere. Add them on bookshelves along with or in place of other accessories. Pile them in a wooden bowl on the coffee table. Put them in candle holders in place of candles. Pile them on a cake plate under the glass top. You get the idea.

Use pumpkins as vases or candle holders. Carve out a little (for a candle) or a lot (for a vase). The candle should fit right into the hole you've cut. You will need to use another container in the pumpkin, so make sure you've hollowed the pumpkin enough so it will fit. And if you're entertaining, try this clever idea from HGTV for an ice bucket.

Snip mum blossoms (or other seasonal flowers) or branches (with the leaves still on) and place in pretty glass containers. Gather on a tray on a coffee table or dining table. Or place on your mantel for a fall touch.

The bottom line is there are so many simple ways to bring fall into your home. Ways that are easy, often right outside your door - and that ensure you won't miss the season!