Mardi Gras Scenes from Home

Mardi Gras scenes from home capture the purple, gold and green goodness of this mid-winter fête Louisiana turns out for in grand laissez bon temps rouler fashion.

Mardi-Gras-decor-Louisiana

Celebratory jollification comes to call and we answer “throw me something, mister” with the accent mark placed over family and furry friends small town revelry to match our larger counterparts.

Mardi Gras Mambo - An Original Silkscreen by George Rodrigue

Mardi Gras Mambo – An Original Silkscreen by George Rodrigue

Parades O’plenty line streets and sidewalks, balls and beads fascinate and decorate, a neighborhood block party fais do-do invites new traditional to the party, and coiffed and costumed furry friends proudly parade in mutt strut second line regality.

Happy-Mardi-Gras-masked-dog

Homes adorned in colors of Carnival greet and treat revelers to a krewe of house floats exhibit.

Mardi-Gras-house-float-table-decoration

Crawfish boils give plenty of reasoning and seasoning for passing a good time.

decorative-crawfish-platter

crawfish boil supplies

boiled-Louisiana-crawfish

Mudbug in Blue by Dave the Builder garners Mardi Gras scenes from home attention.

crawfish on canvas print

the-tastes

Our version of a King Cake party looks something like a late afternoon tea party but with Community Coffee dark roast served black and strong.

King-Cake-2022 (1)

Considering how much we do love our King Cakes, I thought a spin on a classic a delicious deviation.

purple-green-gold-topped-fluff-pie

Fluff pies whip up super easy and delicious.

white-chocolate-Mardi- Gras-fluff-pie

Purple, gold and green sparkling sugars and a plastic King Cake plastic baby completes the decoration portion of this Mardi Gras dessert creation.

gold-purple-sugar

Giving thought to fluff flavor, the hands down choice was as obvious as the powdered sugar on your beignet.

whipped-topping-white-chocolate-instant-pudding

White chocolate it is!

mardi-gras-white-chocolate-fluff-pie

Mardi Gras White Chocolate Fluff Pie

Ingredients

1  9″ graham cracker crust

1  8 oz container whipped topping

1  3.5 oz box white chocolate instant pudding & pie filling

1-1½  cup cold milk

sparkling sugars in purple, gold and green

plastic King Cake baby

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, add white chocolate pudding mix and milk.  Whisk until pudding reaches thick consistency.  Gently fold in the whipped topping to incorporate.

Spread fluff mixture into the graham cracker crust; cover with plastic wrap.

Chill covered pie for at least 4 hours to set.

Before serving, decorate by dusting top of pie with purple, gold and green sparkling sugars.  Garnish with a plastic King Cake baby and enjoy!

king-cake-baby-plastic

cest-si-bon

 

Holiday Treasures and Tastes

My holiday treasures and tastes snapshot asks the question, if you love this time of year like so many of us do, why wait until after Thanksgiving to holiday it up?

Decorating one season at a time traditions, like rules, are made to be broken in favor of a richer experience.

holiday-treasures-and-tastes

Mix, mingle, layer, and jingle the best of the Thanksgiving into Christmas holiday season with treasures and tastes of the ho ho home for the holidays kind.

the-treasures

Christmas-accents-for-home

Holiday Plate

Mainstays ‘Hohoho’ Decorative Throw Pillow

Vintage Christmas Tree Print 

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Mug, Mouse

Two Tier Alpine Village

Holiday Etched Glass Goblet

Santa Boots Planter/Vase

Real-Touch Flocked Norfolk Pine Wreath

Seasonings Greetings Doormat

Voluspa Candy Cane Boxed Candle

Letters To Santa Painted Metal Mailbox Copper Finish

Well deck the halls- I just heard the Hershey’s Kisses commercial with the bells ringing ♫We Wish You A Merry Christmas.

kisses-commercial-let-the-holidays-begin

It’s official- the holidays are here!

9 Inch Scalloped Pie Pan

Pumpkin-Coconut-whipped-topping-fluff-pie

Folks, this recipe for Pumpkin Coconut Fluff Pie is easy to make and impressive to serve.

the-tastes

 

 

 

 

Pumpkin Coconut Fluff Pie

Ingredients

1 9″ graham cracker crust

1  8 oz container whipped topping

1  3.5 oz box vanilla instant pudding & pie filling

1  15 oz can 100% pure pumpkin

½ cup sweetened coconut flakes

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. ground cloves

½ tsp. ground nutmeg

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, add pure pumpkin, vanilla pudding mix, coconut, ground cloves, ground nutmeg and pumpkin pie spice.  Using a wooden spoon, stir ingredients until combined.

cloves-coconut-nutmeg

Next, add vanilla and whipped topping. Fold until incorporated.

Spread the pumpkin fluff mixture into the graham cracker crust; cover with plastic wrap.

pumpkin-fluff

Chill covered pie for at least 4 hours to set.

Pumpkin-Coconut-Fluff-Holiday-Pie

Before serving dust the top of the pie with additional pumpkin pie spice.

pumpkin-coconut-fluff-pie

Things are beginning to get busy as it does at the holidays.

Temperatures have dropped to baby, it’s cold outside numbers, family is on the holiday road heading home, and my kitchen cabinets and countertops runneth over with holiday dinner fixings to which I am most grateful.

saying-grace

Enjoy the process and the holiday treasures and tastes, dear friends.

Darleen-signature-love

Cozy Toasty Fall Happenings

October has arrived, and with it comes the excitement and joy of comfy cozy warm and toasty fall happenings.

houses-in-fall

Autumn Cozy

Creature comforts of the season go a long way in setting a cozy scene.

comfy-cozy-warm-toasty

Nestling in with a hot cup of cinnamon spice tea, a hint of pumpkin wood in the air, and this month’s Country Living is the best of fall.

wj-bk

Two darling nephews and one picturesque pumpkin patch delights little ones and this Auntie to no end.

pumpkin-cozy

Cooking remains my diversion of choice.

Honing in on the flavors best known to the season and putting your stamp on a recipe to make it your own is a delicious way to create a house favorite.

Photo by Roberta Sorge on Unsplash

Photo by Vera De on Unsplash

Apples and spices, fresh lemon and rum extract, refrigerated pie crust (easy is the name of the game) and sprinkles of sugar mix and mingle in a flavor gala befitting a recipe you’ll label a must make.

three-red-apples

Photo by Roberta Sorge on Unsplash

Apple Crostata

Ingredients

3 Gala apples; peeled, cored, sliced

1 Granny Smith apple; peeled, cored, sliced

1 refrigerated pie crust

1 lemon (for juice and zest)

½ cup sugar

coarse sugar

2 teaspoons almond extract

2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

¼ tsp. allspice

¼ tsp. nutmeg

1 egg

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F.

refrigerated-pie-crust

Pie crust will roll out better if allowed to be at room temperature for ten minutes. Roll pastry out onto parchment paper lined cookie sheet.

floured-pie-crust

floured-pie-crust (2)

In a large bowl combine apple slices, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, allspice, nutmeg, almond extract, granulated sugar and salt.

sliced-apples-fresh-lemon

flour-allspice-nutmeg

Lightly dust center of pie crust with flour mixed with allspice and nutmeg.

Pour filling into the center of the crust.

spice-apples-in-crust

Gently fold the border up over the edge of the apple filling.

Pleat crust with fingers to create a border design.

apples-sugared-in-crust

Brush border with egg.

Next, sprinkle border with coarse sugar.

coated-apples

crostata-apples-pastry

Bake for 25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

apple-crostata-1

Tradition beckons the baking of the first Apple Nut Cake of the season.

recipe apple nut cake 1

apple-cake-batter

Trying out a new recipe or whipping up one tried and true celebrates the taste of the season and dishes cozy toasty fall happenings.

On a personal note, I would like to ask my dear readers to please be patient with me as I slow the frequency of postings at this time due to devastating health news received over the last two weeks. Prayers for comfort and strength are most appreciated.

love signature

Welcome Fall Home

Today makes it official, friends. I am so excited to greet the season with accents and accessories, tastes and scents that welcome fall home.

fall-sweet-fall-welcome-mat-Rae-Dunn

One would not know today is the first day of fall by the current weather in the Deep South.

fallsummoween

Hot and humid with temperatures rising lands us in full-on fallsummoween.

outdoor-temperature-first-day-fall

High heat and humidity zaps the feel of fall, but apples paired with pears, cloves, and cinnamon offers the taste of fall refreshment.

Fall Fruit Facts: 

Did you know there are 7500 varieties of apples grown throughout the world with 1oo varieties grown commercially here in the United States.

Cinnamon (also called quills) is the perfect spice compliment to sweet and salty drinks and dishes.

Pears are members of the rose family (no, not the Rose family of Schitt’s Creek fame). Origins of the pear date back to 1000 B.C.

apple-pear-cinnamon-infused-water

Autumn Apple Pear Cinnamon Water

Ingredients

6 cups water

2 Gala apples cut into thin slices

1 Granny Smith apple cut into thin slices

1 pear (I used Bartlett) cut into thin slices

2 cinnamon sticks

3 whole cloves

Directions

Fill pitcher with water.  Add apple and pear slices, cinnamon sticks and whole cloves.  Give a quick stir to mix; cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to blend.

sliced-apples-pear-water

Why stop there?

Crisp mornings, afternoons, and evenings go splendidly with a warm beverage or warming cocktail.

Simple syrup or spiced concentrate added to your favorite fall hot or cold beverages amplifies the spice which in turn brings out the flavors so closely associated with fall.

fall-beverages

Vanilla Simple Syrup

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

In a small saucepan over medium heat bring all ingredients to a soft boil; cooking until sugar dissolves making sure to stir the entire time.

Remove from heat and allow to completely cool. Transfer syrup to a heat safe jar or container and store in refrigerator.

Autumn Spiced Concentrate

Ingredients

2 cups water

3 cinnamon sticks

3 whole cloves

Directions

In a medium saucepan bring water, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to a to a boil. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.

Your house will smell amazing during this part of the process!

Remove from heat and allow concentrate to cool before transferring to a heat safe jar or container.  Store in the refrigerator.

autumn-fall-dining-room-decorations

Seasonal touches here and neutrals there decorate the dining room.

dining-room-table-fall-centerpiece

faux-red-leaves

Faux stems and bushes usually don’t tickle my fall decorating fancy, but this Japanese Maple bush from JOANN is absolutely lovely.

pheasant-planter-new-fall-accent1

Never underestimate the visual impact of the simple yet elegant seasonal décor accessory.

tureens-on-sideboard

DIY wreath project success means I like the way it turned out and find it too pretty to hang on the front door just yet, so it calls the foyer welcome fall home for now.

fall-2022-wreath-foyer-chair

Several posts ago I shared with you all my purchase and impending delivery of this Negative Oranges Framed Art Print from Kirkland’s Home.

oranges-print-kitchen-wall-art

Don’t you love when an item you’re sure will work does just that.

negative-oranges-print-on-wall (1)

Our welcome fall home 2022 wishlist is almost complete.

welcome-fall-home

Vintage or in the style of vintage prints never fail to catch my eye.

Tennessee has really been on my mind and heart of late.

I purchased my first Anton Pieck print from an antiques shop in East Tennessee thirteen years ago, and last week I purchased this vintage Anton Pieck 3D Paper Art print of “The Ship” to add to the collection.

Hunting dog prints hung throughout my grandparent’s house, and the vintage porcelain figurine immediately took me back so in the cart it went.

Pheasant-canvas-flat-copy

Pheasant Canvas Flat

Wishing my fellow fall fans a happy first day of fall is a Places In The Home tradition.

How do you welcome fall home?

love signature

Sweet Summer Trends

Memorial Day is in the rearview mirror, and the kickoff to outdoor living, pool and patio times-sweet summer trends starts in 3-2-1…

pink-porch-swing

The Cottage Journal

Between lawn and garden this and whipping up holiday eats and treats that I found I spent a hunk, a hunk of burning love of the holiday watching movie trailers and sneak peeks from the soon to be released Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis.

Note to self: Add Burning Love by Elvis Presley to your Spotify summer grooves and tunes playlist.

al-fresco-dining-table-dinner

Terrain Events

Like a really good movie trailer, drops of liquid sunshine, warm breezes and summer trends build home decor and entertaining anticipation.

Bravo, summer movie and summer trends blockbusters!

You’ve succeeded in guaranteeing I will be buying a ticket to the best outdoor show in town better known as summer.

Elvis-2022-movie-poster

Here’s a selection to get the beach ball rolling.

Sunburst Beach Ball

Sunburst Beach Ball

Chic Summer Retreats 

backyard-pool-furniture-poolside-summer-Photography by Staci Marengo1

Rue Magazine

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I will be flattering the heck out of chic and cozy in my summer space styling suggestions.

Better Homes & Gardens Willow Sage 2 Piece All-Weather Wicker Outdoor Canopy Chair and Ottoman Set, Beige

Better Homes & Gardens Willow Sage 2 Piece All-Weather Wicker Outdoor Canopy Chair and Ottoman Set, Beige

Ollie the Magnificent loves to spend time of the patio with his mama and papa, and for summer trends 2022 he’ll have his own patio pad.

Indoor Outdoor Rattan Pet Bed (2)

Indoor Outdoor Rattan Pet Bed

Rockin’ in the U.S.A.

Simply can’t get away from the vintage inspired grandmillineal-coastal grandmama style, and more importantly, why would you want to?

International Caravan Chelsea Resin Wicker Porch Rocker

Summer fresh.

Squeeze the Day Decorative Pillow

Squeeze the Day Decorative Pillow

Color kissed and pattern pleasing outdoor throw pillows prove both a preached and practiced way to update for the season.

International Caravan Chelsea Resin Wicker Porch Rocker white

International Caravan Chelsea Resin Wicker Porch Rocker

Natural fiber throw pillows naturally accentuate this undeniable summer fabric favorite.

rattan-outdoor-throw-pillows

Natural Fiber Outdoor Pillows

Light up those summer nights with the elegance of copper.

Tabletop Glass Torch Outdoor Lighting

H. Potter Tabletop Glass Torch Outdoor Lighting

Walkways.

Tabletops.

Just hanging around.

Glam in gold candleholders housing classic pillars or LED flameless options light the way to lighting options that enhance summer ambiance.

gold-glass-outdoor-lanterns-summer

Gold Hurricane Candle Holder
Bazaar 16 Inch Gold Hurricane

In the style of days gone by, this Candle by the Hour beeswax candle comes with presence and provenance.

From the details:

In 17th century America, coiled beeswax candles became a popular way for parents to monitor the time a gentleman spent courting their daughter.

Candle by the Hour Horizontal Candle

Candle by the Hour Horizontal Candle

Once the candle was lit, it burned at a measured rate. When the flame met the clip and went out, time was up! Candle by the Hour™ brings back this novel concept as a worry-free way to illuminate and decorate your home.

To use, just feed up to 3″ of the pliable eco-friendly beeswax coil through the clip and light the wick. The natural beeswax will melt at approximately 20 minutes per inch, providing up to an hour of light at a time.

Barbara King Illuminated Sandstone Seashell Collection summer

Barbara King Illuminated Sandstone Seashell Collection

Seashell style is summer style, and I love the offerings from the Barbara King Illuminated Seashell Collection.

Illuminating seashell sculpture

Barbara King Illuminated Sandstone Seashell Collection

Tablescape Escapes

coastal-tablescape-Interio-designer-Carolyn-Kendall-photo-Kip-Dawkins

Southern Home Magazine- Alcott Interiors -Photography by Emily Followill

As is the case of this summer perfect tablescape by Alcott Interiors  inspiration is everywhere.

blue-white-mismatched-china-patterns

Sunny Cottage Joy

Simple elegance makes a powerful style statement, and is rather simple to execute.

Clippings, stems, and blooms fresh from nature’s arts & crafts store (your yard) placed in a vase and allowed to fall and set in an organic way.

Serveware in vintage mismatched patterns rich in charm and character.

Garden statue pairings that capture the essence of the summer season.

Hungry Cranes Set of 2

Hungry Cranes Set of 2

Seasonal & Seasoning Lagniappe

Elderflower Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Elderflower Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Food is love, food is art, food is summer trends.

Rose Ice Cream

Rose Ice Cream from Salt & Lavender

clear tulip ice cream dish

Tulip Ice Cream Dish

Corn on the cob is a summer sides staple.

Corn Holders, Set of 4

Corn Holders, Set of 4

Dress up this summer delicacy with a set of these silver plate corn pick set.

1950s-ladies-picnic-cocktails

Pinterest

A great summer soiree is only as good as the refreshing summertime beverages served.

non-alcoholic-sangria

Non-Alcoholic Sangria Recipe from The Kitchn

Acrylic and melamine tableware gives good style at a great price point.

outdoor drinkware

Bee & Willow™ Textured Highball Glass in Pink
Studio 3B™ Textured Highball Glass in Green
Destination Summer Vintage Embossed Highball Glass in Pink

4pk Acrylic Drinkware Set - Opalhouse™ designed with Jungalow™

4pk Acrylic Drinkware Set – Opalhouse™ designed with Jungalow™

Assorted Kelly Ventura Floral Insulated 16-Oz. Tumbler Cup - Set of Four

Assorted Kelly Ventura Floral Insulated 16-Oz. Tumbler Cup – Set of Four

pretty-pink-porch-white-wicker (1)

The Cottage Journal – Photography by Mark Lohman

Pink Kimono leaves pattern Melamine plates and green Tiki glasses invite stylish fun to the pretty in pink on the patio party.

outdoor-melamine-plates-tiki-tumblers (1)

Kimona Leaves Outdoor Dinner Plates and Bowls Set of 8
Tiki Glasses- Set of 4

Summer trends toward ’tis the season for seasonal fare.

August Wren Oyster Platter

August Wren Oyster Platter

Casual defines the theme of the summer entertaining season just as casual means a host of ways to set a casual summer scene to many a host and hostess.

“It’s important how we feel in our homes,
because feeling good makes us more gracious.
And that makes it easier to welcome others
not only into our homes but into our lives.”

—Nate Berkus

Where one prefers to zhoosh up the look with the good stuff place settings and serveware, another prefers to lay down newspapers, set out paper goods, and let the good times lobster roll.

August Wren Dinner Plate

August Wren Dinner Plates

Summer is the season of beautiful settings, simple activities, and lovely thoughts.

oak-swing-just-think-lovely-thoughts (1)

Marnie Moyle Hand Crafted Swing

What summer trends are coming in as favorites in your game of I Spy Summer?

Love your style!

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas

The first weekend in May means it is Kentucky Derby time, and that my friends means Kentucky Derby party ideas.

jockey-horse-racing-Churchill-Downs

Racing at Churchill Downs

Horse racing enthusiasts, socialites and celebrities will flock to Churchill Downs this Saturday to view the Run for the Roses.

Racing the Wind Horse and Jockey Wall Décor

Racing the Wind Horse and Jockey Wall Décor

For those of us not making the jaunt, an excellent opportunity to get down and get derby is just a julep jubilee away.

In other words, if you can’t be live and in person at the Derby create your own Kentucky Derby extravaganza.

morning-race-Churchill-Downs

Churchill Downs

Kentucky Derby party ideas revolve around traditions, red roses, mint juleps and fascinating fashions.

fresh-red-rose-bouquet

Mint Julep Cup

For her

Derby-hat-black-pink-rose-pin (1)

Red Golden Rose Embroidered Mesh Midi Skirt

Red Golden Rose Embroidered Mesh Midi Skirt

For him

Derby-bow-tie-cuff-links

Men’s Horse-Bit Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Cuff Links

Derby dazzling accessories in gold and silver for Kentucky Derby Day and beyond.

Patricia Nash Gold-Tone Horse Cameo Pendant Necklace

Gold-Tone Pavé Horse Bit All-Around Collar Necklace
Horse And Carriage Stud Earrings
Patricia Nash Gold-Tone Horse Cameo Pendant Necklace

Now let’s switch gears and show and tell Kentucky Derby party ideas.

And they’re off!

brown horse head wall accent

Hobby Lobby

Working with a theme makes coming up with ideas an easy exercise in Derby decorating.

faux-grass-table-runner

Horse races are run on dirt courses and turf races.

Dirt is not something I recommend dressing out a lovely party food table in. I mean come on, who wants to decorate a party food table with dirt?

Anywho…

green-reindeer-Spanish-moss

Emulate the look of a turf race with a faux grass table runner.

Spanish and/or reindeer moss pairs well or as stand alone centerpiece additions.

blooming-red-roses

Red roses rule the Run for the Roses and make a strong show the next day for Mother’s Day.

See where this getting a lot of bang for your buck decorating logic is going?

Polystone Horse Head Sculpture

Polystone Horse Head Sculpture

Red Rose Floral V Wreath Wreath

Red Rose Floral V Wreath Wreath

Centerpiece equation solved with one horse head sculpture/statue sitting in the middle of a red rose floral wreath is Kentucky Derby divine.

Derby-centerpiece-roses-horse-statue-idea

Pick up several faux stems of roses to fill in bare areas, and voilà!

Simply dismantle the centerpiece after your Derby party and use the wreath for your Mother’s Day brunch-lunch-dinner centerpiece.

red-tulle

Look at you, you decorating smarty designing and decorating a smashing Derby party.

DIY-run-for-the-roses-table-runner

Over on the Kentucky Derby website is this tutorial for making a DIY Garland of Roses Table Runner.

Churchill Downs Race Coming down the homestretch

Coming Down the Homestretch 

For extra Run for the Roses Derby flair, I clip several roses from front yard flower bed and float in clear bowls.

knockout rose bush

Decorative Clear Glass Bowls

Warm water works best, and I drop a low dose aspirin in the water to prolong the life of the roses.

Artificial Flowers Silk Rose Flowers

No real roses?

Red Rose Kissing Ball

Red Rose Kissing Ball

No real problem.

Design-Toscano-The-Six-Stallions-of-the-Hippodrome

Design Toscano The Six Stallions of the Hippodrome

roses-in-trophy-cups-Kentucky-Derby-party-ideas-photo-Michael-Partenio

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Michael Partenio

Faux rose bouquets placed in striking vases, champagne buckets, on trays, or in trophy cups works beautifully as well.

Nickel Etched Trophy

Nickel Etched Trophy with Handles

Super stylish option.

Light Brown Magazine Leather Basket

Light Brown Magazine Leather Basket

Incorporating the traditional aspects of horse racing into my Kentucky Derby party ideas such as riding boots, horseshoes, and a riding helmet or two is not as difficult as one would think.

Riding Boots Stacked Heel

Women’s Riding Boots

Spring is a great time of the year in retail sales to locate a pair of riding boots on sale or clearance.

Riding boots will work perfect in my Kentucky Derby party ideas scheme.

Saturday’s centerpiece will become my new fall fashion boots.

Now that’s getting your money’s worth.

Charlotte-Moss-blue-and-white-accents-roses-in-vase

Charlotte Moss – Photography by Brittany Ambridge

Several small arrangements of cut roses set on tabletops continues the Run for the Roses theme.

roses-house-and-garden

House & Garden

A combination arrangement of red and white roses perfectly fits in with the Run for the Roses motif.

rosesHGTV

Party decorating goes with a clever DIY project, and my list of Kentucky Derby party ideas includes one that is relatively simple to execute.

Fully sanded-ready to paint wood cutouts painted in your choice of color(s) carry out the horse racing theme.

horse-wood-cutouts

Growing Tree Gallery on Etsy

Scatter about tabletops, prop and position around serving trays, centerpiece embellishments, cake toppers, monogram with party attendees initials as take home favors- you get the idea.

mint-julep-silver-tray

Garden & Gun- Photography by Margaret Houston 

Horse racing reigns supreme in Louisville, and the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep.

Ingredients

½ oz. superfine sugar

1 oz. hot water

8 mint leaves, plus one mint sprig

2 oz. bourbon

Directions

Dissolve the sugar in the water in an old-fashioned glass or Mint Julep cup.

Add mint leaves and gently press with a spoon.

Add the bourbon of your choice, fill the glass with crushed ice, and stir.

Place mint sprig in the ice alongside a short straw, and serve.

-Garden & Gun

mint-julep-cup-crushed-ice

Acopa Alchemy 16 oz. Stainless Steel Mint Julep Cup with Beaded Detailing

Mock Mint Julep (non-alcoholic julep)

Ingredients

2 cups cold water

2 cups granulated sugar

8 fresh mint sprigs (for syrup)

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

32 ounces Ginger Ale soda, chilled

8 cups crushed ice

8 fresh mint sprigs for garnish or more to desired taste

Directions

In a large saucepan, bring, water, sugar, lemon juice and mint leaves to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until sugar is completely dissolved.

Allow mixture to cool.

Strain cooled simple mint syrup and discard mint leaves.

Fill your mint julep cups with crushed ice, ½ cup Ginger Ale soda, and ½ cup mint syrup.  Stir to incorporate flavors.

Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.

Makes 8 servings.

Arthur-Court-horse-pitcher

Arthur Court Designs Horse Pitcher

Leather Round Decorative Serving Tray with Handles

Leather Round Decorative Serving Trays with Handles

derby-cocktail-accessories

Horse Drink Stirrers

Horse Drink Stirrers

Please drink responsibly.

Kendall-Jackson-Derby-wines

Here’s a fun serving idea for other beverages requiring ice cubes- rose petal and fresh mint ice cubes.

Gently remove rose petals and fresh mints leaves from stems and lightly wash to remove any debris.

freezing-rose-petals1

Place rose petals into each water filled compartment.

Enhance the flavor of mint ice cubes by also adding a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the water.

Better yet, use sweet iced tea infused with fresh lemon juice instead of water.

Freeze and enjoy.

fresh mint ice cubes

Pick up several nickel-plated serving trays from Dollar Tree in assorted shapes and sizes to use for servings mint juleps and appetizers.

nickel-metal-serving-trays

pimento-cheese-walnuts-silver-tray

Pimento cheese is a Derby delicacy.

Adding a dash of Creole seasoning or Louisiana hot sauce along with a handful or two of chopped walnuts to store bought pimento cheese brings the c’est si bon to the party.

Derby-appetizers-on-silver-trays

stirrup-hors-d'oeuvre-forks

Stirrup Hors d’oeuvre Forks

Spode-horse-plates

Spode Woodland Thoroughbred Horse Dinner Plate

Going through my media files for this post I spotted the gorgeous bowl I sourced for my Mother’s Day Gift Ideas post.

Antique RS Germany Cabbage Leaf Porcelain Bowl

Antique RS Germany Cabbage Leaf Porcelain Bowl

Encore presentation worthy for sure, I feel confident in suggesting the use of vintage beauties such as this one for Kentucky Derby party pieces.

Kentucky Hot Brown open-faced sandwich

The Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, a Kentucky original recipe created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is a perfect Derby Day menu choice.

This recipe from SheKnows plates turkey, bacon, Parmesan cheese, tomatoes and a heavy-handed dollop of bechamel sauce together in all its delicious, rich and Kentucky tradition glory.

Click HERE for recipe.

Butter Pecan Praline Cake

Heather of Sprinkle Bakes recipe fame comes in first place in the winner’s circle with her recipe for Butter Pecan Praline Cake.

silver-horse-theme-cake-stand-dome

fresh-red-roses-cake-topper

If baking does not fit into your party schedule or itinerary, consider picking up your favorite cake at a local or grocery store bakery and adding embellishments of choice.

whipped-topping-on-pecan-delight-pie

Copycat-Piccadilly-Pecan-Delight-Pie (1)

Pecan Delight Pie

Pecan Delight pie works, too.

Keep your eyes out for riding helmets and equestrian accents at antiques and resale shops.

green-velvet-jockey-helmet

Green Velvet, Horse RIDING HELMET/Hat COVER

Perhaps a tip of the hat to a more formal affair prop.

Victorian-style-felt-top-hat

Derby-horse-racing-theme-throw-pillow

Rio ‘Kentucky Derby’ 16 X 16 Decorative Throw Pillow

Linen-Wood-Foam-Equestrian-Footstool-with-Wood-Stain-Finish-and-Nail-Heads

Linen/Wood/Foam Equestrian Footstool

Avalon Solid Monogram Wool and Cashmere Throw Decor H Blanket

Avalon Solid Monogram Wool and Cashmere Throw Decor H Blanket

Kentucky-Derby-party-ideas

Kentucky-Derby-Decor

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas Checklist:

Scrapbook paper in 12×12 sheets found at craft stores make perfect Derby party placemats

OFF TO HORSE RACES TRIPLE CROWN 2PCS SCRAPBOOK PAPER DOUBLE SIDED

red-roses-paper-single-sheets

Fresh or faux roses

red knockout roses

red-rose-tulle

White & Multi Spiky Rose Trim

Rose Trim-Tulle

Mint julep cups – a Derby must.

mint julep cups set

copper-mint-julep-cups

Mint Julep Cups

silver-horse-cocktail-picks-set-of-4

Silver Horse Cocktail Picks, Set Of 4

Lovely!

Roses Are Red Disposable Lunch Paper Napkins 3-Ply 60 Count Napkins

Roses Are Red Disposable Lunch Paper Napkins 3-Ply 60 Count Napkins

Fresh mint clippings for mint juleps.

Simple and fragrant, float fresh mint sprigs in clear cut glass bowls slightly filled with warm water.

fresh-mint-in-clear-bowl

Dollar store trays with the look of silver.

nickel-metal-serving-trays

Tractor Supply meets the Derby need with nickel plated horse bits to use as napkin rings and horseshoes in packs of 4.

mouth bit for horse

Diamond Plain Bronco Horseshoe, Size 0, Pack of 4

Here’s to traditions and celebrating the Run for the Roses with win, place and show-stopping Kentucky Derby party ideas.

Love your style!

Super Bowl Get Together Ideas

Super Bowl get together ideas drive the ultimate game day excitement down the proverbial field.

football-field

Current times require a bit of thought regarding to mingle live and in person or to keep your Super Bowl soiree an “in house” family only gathering.

Whichever way you go, Super Bowl entertaining rules of fun, fan, and food revelry remain the same.

“It’s ridiculous for a country to get all worked up about a game—
except the Super Bowl, of course.
Now that’s important.”

—Andy Rooney

My tried-and-true Super Bowl get together ideas entertaining formula consists of three basic components:

Casual.

Comfortable.

Easy.

bengals-rams

Regardless if your favorite team is in or is out, as tradition dictates most of us will be joining in on the Super Bowl merriment from the comfort of home- the favorite party zone.

Bengals support club

LSU fans proudly rise to the occasion in support for “our” Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Lest we forget, the New Orleans Saints Who Dat Nation cheering on the Cincinnati Bengals Who Dey loyal.

Joe-Burrow-LSU_Bengals

In Louisiana go, Joe, go translates to geaux, Jeaux, geaux.

Joe-Burrow-Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals

Once a Tiger, always a Tiger.

SUGARFIX by BaubleBar Football Stud EarringsSUGARFIX by BaubleBar Football Stud Earrings

Even Decoristas who aren’t exactly wild about football excel in seizing the game day to bejewel and bedeck.

Great retail prices at this usually slow time of year following the holidays make picking up an accent here and an accessory tops the Super Bowl get together ideas list.

Samsung - 2.1-Channel 300W Soundbar System with 6-1/2" Wireless Subwoofer - Black

Samsung 2.1 Ch Soundbar with 290W with Wireless Sub

The next best thing to experiencing the sounds of the Super Bowl live and in person is watching the game in enhanced audio quality.

Roku Streambar HD4KHDR Streaming Media Player & Premium Audio, All in One, and Voice Remote with TV controls

Roku Streambar | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Media Player & Premium Audio, All in One, and Voice Remote with TV controls

rams-colors

Comfort factors into the game day experience, and comfortable seating options score big points with the crowd.

Indoor Chaise Lounge Sofa

Excellent price point on this indoor chaise lounge sofa/chair with four color choices.

Man cave-game room ready to go for the big day.

Indoor-Chaise-Lounge-Sofa-blue

Indoor Chaise Lounge Sofa

Many moons ago when the Canadian snowbird was in junior high we bought him a papasan chair for Christmas.

Fast forward to the following February which found me down and out most of the month with a wicked case of bronchopneumonia.

Getting comfortable escaped me until I dragged his papasan chair from his bedroom to the den and climbed into it.

Absolutely one of the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat-lounged in.

Proves you’re never too old to enjoy a comfortable chair.

International Caravan Bali Papasan Chair with Solid Cushion

International Caravan Bali Papasan Chair with Solid Cushion

Seems everyone I ran around with in junior high school had one of these.

Why do you think these things have been around for year?

Safavieh Manchester Antiqued Brown Tufted Club ChairSafavieh Manchester Antiqued Brown Tufted Club Chair

Timeless styles, upholstery choices, frames and finishes play well to the overall presence as well as the comfort quotient.

bengals-colors

Mid-century modern is hot, and with styles such as these I can see why.

Quinn Swivel Club Chair

Quinn Swivel Club Chair

Betseyville 20 X 20 Betseys Tiger Throw Pillow Raven Black

Betseyville 20 X 20 Betseys Tiger Throw Pillow Raven Black

Parkland Collection Myra Transitional Black Throw Pillow Parkland Collection Myra Transitional Black Throw Pillow

OSP-Home-Furnishings-Main-St.-Woven-Chair-w-Interlace-Weave-Fabric-Espresso-Finish-Wood-Arms-Legs

Main St. Woven Chair w/ Interlace Weave Fabric & Espresso Finish 

Hosting game plans favor spending Super Bowl Sunday knee deep in the fun rather than in a stream of spilled food and drink.

mDesign Steel Single Drawer Side Table and Basket Storage Unit

mDesign Steel Single Drawer Side Table and Basket Storage Unit

Spot side tables give a good look, and give guests a spot to place drinks, eats, and devices.

Manila Cylinder Drum Accent Table - Project 62™

Manila Cylinder Drum Accent Table Gold – Project 62™

Cylinder drum accent tables placed in strategic areas in and around Dave the Builder’s man cave serve a stylish purpose for game day and beyond.

5pc TV Tray Set

5pc TV Tray Set

Tossing it back to the heyday of the TV tray with an updated color choice is is this 5 piece tray set.

Set up, serve, and store away.

Excellent call.

Defense Football Player

These bronze finish resin figurines from Hobby Lobby can be used over and over again which makes it a super affordable Super Bowl decorative accent.

Bronze Quarterback

In this neck of the woods where mild winters allow magnolia trees, Ligustrum’s, and your basic garden variety greenery to maintain color and growth, cuttings and clippings are readily available for  centerpiece arrangements.

stem cuttings

The cuttings and clippings make a nice showing on their own, but really kick the look up a notch when mixed with a couple of fresh bouquets from the supermarket floral department.

glass cylinder vases

Another inexpensive decoration involves glass cylinder container(s) from the dollar store and a couple of packages of decorative accent gems with just enough blue to contrast and complement the Rams team color.

decorative-accent-gems-blue-green-white

Fill containers with crinkle cut paper shreds in team colors.

logo-shreds

Top it off with a football and there you go.

throwback-football

Wilson-throwback-football

metallic-footballs

It’s not about how much it cost, but the wow factor it creates.

whistles

Pick up a pack of coaches/referee whistles for this next idea.

Feed black and white ribbon through the whistle ring and tie around the handles of these black and white ceramic soup mugs in referee fashion.

super-bowl-soup-bowls

Serve on black melamine plates or plate charges or ones associated with your team’s colors.

melamine-plates-chargers

The-Best-Chili-Recipe

The Best Chili Recipe – Sugar Spun Run

Plastic tubs easily become individual popcorn-nuts-party mix-pretzels holders or fill with ice to create individual beverage tubs.

plastic-tub-with-handles

individual-beverage-tub

Dave the Builder and I love In-N-Out Burger.

In-N-Out-Burger-in-car

We go with the eating in the car option complete with lap mats and paper trays.

in-and-out-burger-order-car

What better time copy the eating in the car concept than a Super Bowl party.

25-Pack-Kraft-Paperboard-4-Corner-Pop-Up-Food-Tray-Carrier-Food-and-Drink-Stadium-Tray-Carrier-Theater-Snack-Carrier-Box (1)

Scrapbook paper is just the right size and design for lap mats, placemats and coasters.

scrapbook-paper

Football Field Scrapbook Paper – 12″ x 12″

Football Textured Scrapbook PaperFootball Textured Scrapbook Paper

footballs-scrapbook-paper

Footballs Scrapbook Paper – 12″ x 12″

I like to buy items that easily fit with other occasions and themes.

Walbest Japanese-style Solid Wooden Walnut Plate

Walbest Japanese-style Solid Wooden Walnut Plate

Igloo 5-Gallon Heavy-Duty Beverage Cooler, OrangeIgloo 5-Gallon Heavy-Duty Beverage Cooler, Orange

Party Cups 12 oz Reusable Disposable Cups

Spike the Ball Tea

Ingredients

1 gallon iced tea

1 gallon lemonade

1 750mL bottle honey whiskey

ice

Directions

Combine the iced tea, lemonade, and whiskey in cooler and stir.

Add ice.

Please always drink responsibly.

Football-Shaped Glass TumblersFootball Cooler Glasses- set of 6

These football cooler glasses will carry you through the entire Super Bowl and seasons to come.

Artificial Grass Table RunnerArtificial Grass Table Runner

An artificial grass table runner can be used on Super Bowl Sunday as well as  springtime gatherings, Easter eggstravaganzas, and bridal showers.

food-football-fun

The idea behind the Super Bowl party nosh is to pair good times with good eats.

rams-bengals-napkins

From a drop by the supermarket spread made for good times and gathering friends to an instant pot-slow cooker feast, easy yet impressive dishes make a taste touchdown.

boiled-Louisiana-crawfish

Boiled crawfish, potatoes, and corn- Louisiana required Super Bowl seafood eatin’.

Throw in lemons, whole onions, and smoked sausage and laissez les bon temps rouler, cher!

Jalapeño Popper Football Cheese BallJalapeño Popper Football Cheese Ball Recipe from Peas and Crayons

Clocking time in the kitchen preparing complicated snacks takes you away from the play-by-play action.

Easy is the game plan, so let’s take a look at easy recipes.

Totally-Bamboo-Football-Shaped-Bamboo-Serving-and-Cutting-Board

Totally Bamboo Football Shaped Bamboo Serving and Cutting Board

Oversized Carved Wood Tray - Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia

Oversized Carved Wood Tray – Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia

 goodness & grace Round Distressed Wood Paddle Board

 goodness & grace Round Distressed Wood Paddle Board

The ever popular cheese platter and charcuterie board goes into the Super Bowl snack hall of fame.

fall-cheese-board

Variety is the spice of life and the rule of the cheese charcuterie board.  Work with what is available, on sale, and in season.

Here’s the items that make the tray:

One sharp, one mild, one soft, and one blue cheese.

point-reyes-farmstead-cheese-company-original-blue_1_1

Next, I select a trio of in season fresh fruits such as grapes, dates, berries, and apples.  Dried apricots and dried cranberries round out the category.

Good olives and pepperoncini complement well, too.

pecan-halves-shelled

Creole-spices

Creole pecans and mixed nuts bring the kick and the crunch.

Place pecans on a baking sheet. Drizzle melted butter over pecans, hit them with a generous sprinkling of Creole seasoning, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.  Let cool and serve.

fig-date-chutney

Dates, figs, honey and hot pepper bacon are my jam.

goodbees-honey

private-selection-hot-pepper-bacon-jam

An assortment of crackers and breads of your preference.

Pick up a bag of crostini in the bakery department at Walmart, a box or two of the house brand of entertainment cracker selection (good crackers!), and complete the pass me some of those picture with the crowd pleasing trifecta- pretzels, corn, and tortilla chips.

Prosciutto, salami, and thin sliced smoked turkey enter the field as power proteins.

super-bowl-charcuterie-board

Dip is the official unofficial food of the Super Bowl soiree.

Four quarters, four dip recipes.

slow-cooker-chilis-queso-3

Copycat Chili’s Queso (Slow Cooker Version) from Creme de la Crumb is a Super Bowl appetizer tour de force.

This baby is easy, slow cooker easy, and a crowd pleaser.

Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip

easy cheesy hot pizza dip

 Photography by Joe Lingeman – Food Styling by Amelia Rampe

Football and pizza is a natural pairing, and this Easy, Cheesy Hot Pizza dip recipe from The Kitchn is exactly that.

Easy, Cheesy Hot Pizza Dip

Super Bread Bowl Dip

A football shaped bread bowl full of dip.

Need I say more?

Click on the link for the how to make instructions and Kale-Artichoke Dip recipe.

Baked Kale Artichoke Dip Recipe from Delish

Don’t be a host/hostess hero, you football animal you.

Pop the top on a few cans of fan favorites Fritos bean dip and jars of salsa and go forth and Super Bowl.

bean-dip-salsa

Plastic Football Tray

Did someone say wings?

Cooking/frying food in an air fryer is a healthy compromise without any compromise at all.

Food cooks with less fat, faster than traditional methods, is not limited to frying (grills, roasts, bakes), and the best feature- no oil!

delish-air-fryer-fried-chicken

Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

gumbo-bowl

It’s not a Super Bowl party in Louisiana without a pot of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo.

king-cake-colors

Carnival season is in full swing with all the fun included and the calories consumed from King Cake parties a conversation for another day.

King-Cake-2022 (1)

Standard fare such as grilled or pan fried hamburgers is simple goodness widely received as a Super Bowl party must have.

hamburger-patties-ready-to-grill

hot-spicy-sauces

Pickapeppa Bloody Mary

Ingredients

1 cup Clamato juice

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1½ teaspoons Pickapeppa Sauce

3 drops Worcestershire Sauce

½ tablespoon ground celery seed

2 ounces vodka, optional

Directions

Fill glass half way with ice.  If adding vodka, pour 2 ounces into the glass. Add Clamato juice, lemon juice, Pickapeppa sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and celery seed. Stir well to mix.

Optional spice: kick it up a notch with a generous splash of hot sauce

bloody-mary-fixings

Garnish with spicy beans, celery stalk, or spicy okra.

Baked jalapeño cheese fries

Baked Jalapeño Cheese Fries – Simply Delicious

oven-fries-onion-rings

Here again is the easy way to go with sides.

Crank up the oven, follow the package directions, mix up dipping sauces in sweet and savory flavors, add to individual ramekins (COVID safety practices and general double dipping penalties), and serve.

ramekins

Good old fried chicken from the deli department of your local grocery store qualifies as a can’t go wrong choice of game day offerings.

fried-chicken

Games people play before, during, and after the game-

tic-tac-toe-bar-games-Lark-Photos

floor-checkers

Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Handheld Microphone

Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Handheld Microphone

dart-board-games

Super Bowl Bingo

Super Bowl Bingo

Leftover wrapped candy from the holidays?

wrapped-candy-in-jar

Count out the candy pieces, do the same with plastic football beads you can find at hobby stores, throw it all together in a big jar, and let guests guess how many is in the jar for a prize.

football-beads (1)

trophy-plastic

Show a classic football flick on the big screen TV post game entertainment.

football-movies

Options rule the field and Super Bowl get together ideas.

If the jar idea fails to score, load up a football pinata for an outdoor activity.

football-pinata

Whatever works for you works best for your Super Bowl get together.

That’s the winning point of these Super Bowl get together ideas.

love your style

 

Homey Seasonal Decor Finds

Happy first day of fall, fellow fall loving friends!  Along with the elation over fall’s arrival, the inspiration it offers, and the seasonal colors on parade fascination associated with the third season, homey seasonal decor finds in rich hues and flavorful tastes frame this picture perfect season.

fall-2021-inspiration

The excitement surrounding the first day of fall compares to Christmas day in my book.

I’m selecting songs for a fall into autumn playlist, and the big blue gumbo pot is ready for the c’est si bon celebration of the season and its cornucopia of seasonings.

pecan-pies-fall-Keith-Robinson-Flower-Magazine-photo-David-Hillegas

Y’all know my affinity for taking a photo and replicating it with in the style finds.  Well let me just say how taken I am with this bountifully beautiful display created by event designer Keith Robinson as featured in Flower Magazine.

Wood Cake Stand - Hearth & Hand

Wood Cake Stand – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

I can’t locate a recipe for pecan pie from Mr. Robinson, but I use the  Homemade Pecan Pie recipe from Karo Syrup, so classic it is.

Homemade Pecan Pie

Ingredients

1 cup Karo® Light OR Dark Corn Syrup

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

2 tablespoons butter melted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1-½ cups (6 ounces) pecans

1 (9-inch) unbaked OR frozen deep-dish pie crust

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Mix corn syrup, eggs, sugar, butter and vanilla using a spoon.  Stir in pecans.  Pour filling into pie crust.

Bake on center rack of oven for 60 to 70 minutes (see tips for doneness, below).  Cool for 2 hours on wire rack before serving.

Place cookie sheet in oven and preheat oven as directed. Pour filling into frozen crust and bake on preheated cookie sheet.

High Altitude Adjustments: Reduce sugar to 2/3 cup and increase butter to 3 tablespoons.  Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.

-Karo Syrup

pink-rust-orange-mums (1)

Chrysanthemums (mums) are plentiful at fall, relatively inexpensive, and the color array spectacular.

Stone-like Grey Large Decorative Vase

Stone-like Grey Large Decorative Vases

Stone and earthenware decorative vases and planters become focal point accents for housing seasonal flowers, branches, and stems.

Rustic Vase Brown

Rustic Vases

No fuss-no muss simplicity at its serveware best is achieved with new or vintage stoneware bowl(s).

The look is pure fall, pure vintage beauty.

chocolatey brown antique farmhouse, stoneware mixing bowl

Antique RED WING Yellow Ware Bowl
Chocolatey Brown Stoneware Mixing Bowl

Serving boards made from natural materials serve well as versatile, uncomplicated choices for showcasing the foods and flavors of fall.

Brown Wood Look Plate

Wood Style Plate from Hobby Lobby

As I’ve stated before, never confuse simple with cutting corners or skimping on the details.

tondo-12-round-platter

Tondo Wooden Plates

Cozy is easily achieved when the emphasis is placed on inviting- the main ingredient in the recipe for putting together a fall fête for a party of two or intimate gathering for friends and family.

Teak Root Wedge Reclaimed Wood Serving Board

Teak Root Wedge Reclaimed Wood Serving Board

When casual elegance meets tone on tone layering meets inviting ambiance, a stellar result is achieved.

pumpkin-wood-serving-platter

Amber Glow Pumpkin Wood Serving Platter

Pumpkins quickly come to mind when considering autumn-fall theme accessories for home and table, but have you noticed the popularity of the mushroom?

Mushroom Cheese Board

Mushroom Cheese Board

Handmade Wood Mushrooms Tabletop Decor Collection

Handmade Wood Mushrooms Tabletop Decor Collection

Homey seasonal decor finds in a neutral colors fit right in with the natural state of the season’s beauty.

Seagrass Woven Pumpkin

Seagrass Woven Pumpkins

Crisp notes in the late afternoon air, tole serving trays, cake domes, and fall themed loaf pans stirs up all the fall feels, finds, and flavors.

tole-tray-cake-cover

Apple nut cake is set for the cake stand come Wednesday, but first, whipped maple pie.

whipped-maple-pie

Maple is among the taste of fall favorites, and is the featured flavor in this super easy to make dessert.

maple-syrup-flavoring-vanilla

Whipped Maple Pie

Ingredients

1 deep dish pie crust

1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) vanilla instant pudding

1½ cup cold milk

½ cup pure maple syrup

1 tsp. maple flavoring

1  container (8 oz.) thawed whipped topping

nutmeg for dusting

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F.  Remove frozen pie crust from package and allow to thaw for 20  minutes.

Using a fork, prick the bottom and sides of the pie crust with to help reduce shrinkage and bubbling.  To ensure the crust bakes off properly, place an empty pie pan the same size inside the crust.

Place pie crust on baking sheet and bake on lower oven rack for 12-15 minutes, allowing to cool once removed from oven.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together instant pudding and milk until firm.  Add maple syrup and maple flavoring; mix well.  Fold in whipped topping; mix until incorporated.

whipped-pudding

Spoon mixture into cooled pie crust. Dust top of pie with nutmeg and top with nuts.

Refrigerate 1 hour.

Drizzle maple syrup over pie just before serving.

stoneware-pie-dish-set

Stoneware Pie Dish, Set of 3

Pie today, parfaits tomorrow with this recipe.

Bee & Willow™ Goblet in Gold

Bee & Willow™ Goblets

Grab a jar, tumbler, or goblet and working in layers begin with crushed cookies (vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, graham crackers- all delicious choices).

Next, add a generous tablespoon of the maple pudding mixture.

Repeat with another layer of crushed cookies and complete the dish with a final addition of the maple pudding mixture.

Top with a dollop of whipped topping, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, and walnuts or fresh Louisiana pecans.

The delicious proof is in the pudding.

empty-mixing-bowl

Gorgeously anticipating fall’s color rich-seasonally tasty arrival on this blog post writing afternoon makes for perfect blog post writing conditions.

fall-is-my-favorite-color-blog

That and streaming The French Chef with Julia Child featuring three French favorites:

Tarte aux Pommes Classique
Tarte des Demoiselles
Tarte Tartin starring apples, cinnamon, and butter- the fall baking trinity.

red-fall-apples (2)

Julia Child is a classic, her personality endearing, and her recipes favorites in the Places In The Home test kitchen.

Between the show, recipes, and hint of crisp in the air I’m inspired to add her Tarte aux Pommes to my must make for fall recipe file.

Tarte aux Pommes

Ingredients

10-inch partially cooked pastry shell

4 pounds cooking apples

1 teaspoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/3  cup apricot jam/preserves

1/3  cup Calvados, rum or cognac (or 1 tablespoon vanilla)

2/3  cup granulated sugar for topping

3 tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F. Quarter, core, and peel the apples. Cut enough to make 3 cups into 1/8-inch lengthwise slices and toss them in a bowl with the lemon juice and sugar.  Reserve them for the top of the tart.

Cut the rest of the apples into rough slices.  You should have about 8 cups. Place in a pan and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Beat in apricot jam, Calvados, sugar, butter, and cinnamon.  Raise heat and boil, stirring, until applesauce is thick enough to hold in a mass in the spoon.

Spread the applesauce in the pastry shell.  Cover with a neat, closely overlapping layer of sliced apples arranged in concentric circles.

Bake in upper third of preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the apples have browned lightly and are tender.  Slide the tart onto a serving dish and paint over it with a light coating of apricot glaze. Serve warm or cold with whipping cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Apricot Glaze

½ cup apricot preserves, forced through a sieve

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Stir the strained apricot preserves and sugar over moderately high heat until thick enough to coat the spoon with a light film, and the last drops are sticky as they fall from the spoon (225-228 degrees on a candy thermometer).  Do not boil past this point or the glaze will become brittle as it cools.

Apply the glaze while it is still warm. Unused glaze will keep indefinitely in a screw-top jar.

-Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Volume I

Stoneware Pumpkin Serving Dish - Threshold™

Stoneware Pumpkin Serving Dish – Threshold™

Delicious year round, but these flavors shine at the fall table.

fall-jellies-jams-preserves

Sunday night dinners here at the Places In The Home ponderosa tend to be the breakfast for dinner type.

Biscuits.

Pancakes.

Eggs with fried apples.

round ceramic baking dish grill dinner plates

Found and placed on my fall finds list for suppers such as these is a set of Bruntmor Set Of 4 Matte Glaze Ceramic Food Serving Plates With Skillet Look.

coffee-tea-flavors-fall

Coffee drinking and tea sippin’ season and seasoned warm beverages complement and spice fall’s crisp days into brisk cozy evenings.

Homey Seasonal Decor Finds

Rustic Vases 
Mason Cash | In The Forest Batter Bowl
Polyresin Pine Cone Table Decor     
Antique BM&T Covered Vegetable 1896
Stoneware Pumpkin Serving Dish 
Metallic Silver Scroll Charger Plate
Nordic Ware Leaf-Lettes Cakelet Pan, 2.5 Cup

fall-home

Homey seasonal decor finds frame this picture perfect season and welcome the best of the season to home and hearth.

This is how we welcome fall home.

love signature