Setting the Table for a November Birthday

Do you find yourself in a situation like mine, where there are a number of special birthdays clustered around the fall and winter holidays? We celebrate birthdays from the last of days of November until the first week of January. For each of them I try to set a table that says 'here's a special day' but downplays — or better yet doesn't include — holiday trimmings.

Elegance and Candlelight for Thanksgiving

If your house is like ours, Thanksgiving dinner is not quite like any other dinner. Family and friends are contacted in October (or September if an overnight -- or weekend -- stay is included!) for a festive gathering. The menu is set years in advance and food shopping and preparation is a group effort. 

Autumn Vignettes

I know that many of you regularly create lovely vignettes throughout your homes to celebrate the seasons, holidays or special occasions. I don't usually, generally being content to savor the way mantles or tabletops look for longer periods. But I came down with bronchitis this weekend — so I gave up on my planned tablescape and created two autumn themed vignettes instead. Easier and quicker since I had already retrieved the box of pumpkins from downstairs.