The original Jack-O-Lantern was far from the bright, orange pumpkin of today’s time. Stepped in Irish folklore that dates back centuries, Jack-O-Lanterns were actually turnips or beets, carefully carved and then strategically placed around the home to ward off any trespassing spirits. Often hung from fences or gate posts, these delightful little root vegetables are…Continue Reading “Turnip Jack-O-Lanterns”
If you want a kick-ass Halloween centerpiece that’s everything eerie and creepy, this project is for you. A simple black netting is draped around an heirloom pumpkin for a spooky look that feels more at home in the Adam’s family mansion. The best part is that no pumpkins were harmed in this centerpiece. That means…Continue Reading “Spooky Pumpkin Centerpiece”
Now that you’ve got the flowers let’s arrange an adorable little vase just overflowing with color that will feel right at home anywhere you need a pop of seasonal flair. To create this arrangement simply follow the instructions below and tweak them just a bit to suit your needs. For larger arrangements, adjust amounts and…Continue Reading “Halloween Flower Arranging”
Creating a second arrangement using only purple foliage is just as easy as using cut flowers. Choose a container that’s a bit wider at the mouth and has a little more height. I love to choose a container in a weathered pewter or unpolished silver, such as a goblet. Insert branches for a bit of…Continue Reading “Purple Foliage Arrangement”
Fall flowers have such a delightful color about them, maybe because it’s the last final push before the bleak winter months. What am I even saying? It doesn’t get cold here in Alabama until like January. Anyway, the bold, unusual colors and textures of fall flower varieties are ideally suited for Halloween arrangments. Traditional colors…Continue Reading “Festive Fall Flowers for Halloween”
Nothing screams Halloween bloody murder more than a crow in a cage. Especially when that crow is amidst other creepy accents like an iron cauldron and fungus, like reindeer lichen. This vignette looks awesome anywhere in your home, and even as a centerpiece. Reindeer Lichen is a great addition to your Halloween decor because it…Continue Reading “Eerie Halloween Vignette”
Halloween may quite possibly be one of my favorite holidays. I love everything about it, from the crisp chill in the air to the costumes. However, I rarely decorate for it. I tend to stick to more of a fall theme with my seasonal decor rather than the spooky ghosts and goblins of Halloween. With…Continue Reading “Halloween Tablescape”
Roasted butternut squash with a southwest twist features a spicy, robust filling of peppers, kale, and beef. Topped with cheese and a squeeze of lime these squash are a fun twist on a traditional enchilada without all that guilt. RECIPE: SOUTHWESTERN BUTTERNUT SQUASH INGREDIENTS: serves 4-6 2-3 medium butternut squash 1 pound ground beef 1…Continue Reading “Southwestern Butternut Squash”
Venison is the star of this stew when brought together in holy matrimony with fall root vegetables like turnips, potatoes, and rutabagas. A blend of seasonings, herbs, and mushrooms exude an earthy depth while producing a delightful aroma. Substitute beef rather than venison if desired. Capturing the essence of fall for a dinner like no…Continue Reading “Hunter’s Stew”
Butternut squash soup is a fall staple at my house. I prefer to combine all of my ingredients in a one-pot wonder rather than roasting beforehand. The addition of heavy cream creates a smooth, velvety texture that warms the soul. So cozy up on a fall night with a big bowl and heavy pour. RECIPE:…Continue Reading “Butternut Squash Soup”