Cape Cod Co. Lantern & Dining Room Update

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMqLzg41VwpWdpYfjcv-F0qmuxjuwrpIsD-SVRkwsptzitIaG00H4RrKPX71nXjINEKJwLt4fjSDlNLWYhLqiENfbbnvnQ2M19c1V_w13dwoHM7M9kCaf6TdjNd1hdVSGeD9TsSZoa9w/s1600/IMG_8587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMqLzg41VwpWdpYfjcv-F0qmuxjuwrpIsD-SVRkwsptzitIaG00H4RrKPX71nXjINEKJwLt4fjSDlNLWYhLqiENfbbnvnQ2M19c1V_w13dwoHM7M9kCaf6TdjNd1hdVSGeD9TsSZoa9w/s640/IMG_8587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Finally, there is light in the dining room!   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6_u43xmnQSvt_rcwxJaEja0HVOkwqldHMfA28Y2GP8l-EJiH014SSRXe29Dljs1I7EO1cPQ5PF8DJnwFzHt42BtriOI93Py2_0ivjm2KNWujYjGm_pES5HvNLqFbneCDIrHYMKpw0Qk/s1600/IMG_8591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6_u43xmnQSvt_rcwxJaEja0HVOkwqldHMfA28Y2GP8l-EJiH014SSRXe29Dljs1I7EO1cPQ5PF8DJnwFzHt42BtriOI93Py2_0ivjm2KNWujYjGm_pES5HvNLqFbneCDIrHYMKpw0Qk/s640/IMG_8591.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />More specifically, a light.  Or should I say, a lantern.  The lantern.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92aQQvxdpLJeEBEprKkQ_nCt7OAWokCf1GF_4lzbxsFRzd3tHu25-0796NnmAdfktxEU2-xSs1w5c337G_VGoLgb_3dk-2nPM9ql2XPhddaE8ghhyphenhyphenfdi2xXP5Vd67kziHpoVchq3-WcI/s1600/IMG_8596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92aQQvxdpLJeEBEprKkQ_nCt7OAWokCf1GF_4lzbxsFRzd3tHu25-0796NnmAdfktxEU2-xSs1w5c337G_VGoLgb_3dk-2nPM9ql2XPhddaE8ghhyphenhyphenfdi2xXP5Vd67kziHpoVchq3-WcI/s640/IMG_8596.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />After chatting with Mike's mom, Joy, about my vision for the fixture, I told her that I wanted something that felt authentic for a "Cape Cod" style house.  Being Joy and an expert in all things unique and special, "Have you looked at Cape Cod Lantern Company?  They are in Chatham.  I believe they make all of the lanterns at Chatham Bars Inn."  Only Joy would know great things like that sitting in KC!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4mtX95SfO7pL0ny7T0T4e6OZunwsoQBiBX5DilS3WtY2ve861dsFnAUy28tvJCBySi5Clcxbn3TGK47YJpKE1kgAet31sKvRHbAKu1LwCpjW_5vvyq4erMrZnWiVy5JEsL4xfsaEzDs/s1600/IMG_7057.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4mtX95SfO7pL0ny7T0T4e6OZunwsoQBiBX5DilS3WtY2ve861dsFnAUy28tvJCBySi5Clcxbn3TGK47YJpKE1kgAet31sKvRHbAKu1LwCpjW_5vvyq4erMrZnWiVy5JEsL4xfsaEzDs/s640/IMG_7057.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  Do you remember <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/cape-cod-weekend-classic-new-england.html" target="_blank">my post about our stay at the Chatham Bars Inn</a>?  I oogled over the authentic fixtures and lanterns that hung seemingly everywhere on the property.  The photo above (no, that is not my family room...) is of the sitting room at the Inn. </div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobtjVLs4uMjBjd-i6rFRW9GPIicCxkNp54P-QFIboEMEgF7KP6aMA9Zc_aifI2Bc99PIlwuIFBHvRtYKu3GH8oUrQuWKNo1pGkOsK2w03ViqA4YlttOHDmbwDhM89tHZEw6mxUU5k8v0/s1600/IMG_8585.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobtjVLs4uMjBjd-i6rFRW9GPIicCxkNp54P-QFIboEMEgF7KP6aMA9Zc_aifI2Bc99PIlwuIFBHvRtYKu3GH8oUrQuWKNo1pGkOsK2w03ViqA4YlttOHDmbwDhM89tHZEw6mxUU5k8v0/s640/IMG_8585.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a7b5G4dUgZrlCcD85j9R0ufJuYUmor61ujKm8mlkNXbb93aEoNuFs7Xy6nnwHYKKvV9qa-NoJLjCo-vMtmDidVSL0GNONjfvk-3zBB3tUjfW0qGN4rFTH0p82NHKqwovcmL6ULyzgB4/s1600/IMG_8599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a7b5G4dUgZrlCcD85j9R0ufJuYUmor61ujKm8mlkNXbb93aEoNuFs7Xy6nnwHYKKvV9qa-NoJLjCo-vMtmDidVSL0GNONjfvk-3zBB3tUjfW0qGN4rFTH0p82NHKqwovcmL6ULyzgB4/s640/IMG_8599.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />So, I immediately searched their site and found the <a href="http://www.capecodlanterns.com/store/products/4-hanging-lanterns/512-5652-concord-hanging-lantern/" target="_blank">"5652 Concord" Lantern</a>.  Not only did I love the style but I loved that this particular style was a nod to our New England home, Concord.  Perfect.<br /><br />I love it.  It is simple, yet very striking.  The scale is lovely, which I was a little concerned about before it arrived... would it be too big?  Not big enough?  But, alas, it is just right. <br /><br />I love that it is an authentic, handmade representation of our time in New England that hangs in the center of our home.  I imagine that we will take it with us to all of our future homes.  As Mike and I drove through Mission Hills on our way to dinner last weekend, I noticed all of the graceful lanterns that hung in front of the front doors of the large stately homes... maybe someday...<br /><br />I'm not big on souveneirs, I mostly rely on photos instead of sweatshirts, but I have to say... This is one great souvenir!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrYemt511YIlAwUnAU3f_MHQ29QUOTyMxGr_NsDRsCif50F_gUl_t89zvhIFf25w_0zZ4aJTaPC_8UErfrApVNMXl1B-Bin94Cnv0HM90Nt6IkWcLEb0trvMNctWXDlX-qjgzMjGccU1o/s1600/IMG_8600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrYemt511YIlAwUnAU3f_MHQ29QUOTyMxGr_NsDRsCif50F_gUl_t89zvhIFf25w_0zZ4aJTaPC_8UErfrApVNMXl1B-Bin94Cnv0HM90Nt6IkWcLEb0trvMNctWXDlX-qjgzMjGccU1o/s640/IMG_8600.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I had it made (all of their fixtures are handmade to order) in Antique Brass finish with clear glass to compliment the original brass fixtures in our house.   The un-laqured finish will weather and age with time. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUx9_aUtz3x2QOcGkQlvFG-Zw834jtUe6msxjYDY7Yi0gZV_KWbiwuEijG3X4Sg-1dW2-WbbNXchz3GPAFbfIG-QJlgjAJLWvRLK9ESshSVi6hQHHTrrRkZhqaR_4HM5D6cQCfcfolzGc/s1600/IMG_8605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUx9_aUtz3x2QOcGkQlvFG-Zw834jtUe6msxjYDY7Yi0gZV_KWbiwuEijG3X4Sg-1dW2-WbbNXchz3GPAFbfIG-QJlgjAJLWvRLK9ESshSVi6hQHHTrrRkZhqaR_4HM5D6cQCfcfolzGc/s640/IMG_8605.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> You may also notice a peek at our Christmas decorations that are beginning to take their places.  In our windows, I've hung fresh bay leaf wreaths.  They smell soooo good.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGr8dYAmrtCj0yBKqFhD2YG_Wttu2ZPpqC45p86VytEj-ShVPMGFZjBkBq9RG-mtGlDkZRNlumd1_xN0dO9nnAd1Bxenx8ReAw3qIlNPNWLfMIobh4YHGg8Bqbv4bXl4FgkjRVfGC7ho/s1600/IMG_8614.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGr8dYAmrtCj0yBKqFhD2YG_Wttu2ZPpqC45p86VytEj-ShVPMGFZjBkBq9RG-mtGlDkZRNlumd1_xN0dO9nnAd1Bxenx8ReAw3qIlNPNWLfMIobh4YHGg8Bqbv4bXl4FgkjRVfGC7ho/s640/IMG_8614.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />Here is another look at the room - a couple of stacks of plates, compote of tangerines, etc., piled in the center of the table from my holiday header shoot for the blog.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWt73XAMV9hl5wTQ1DZuEl_LmUuLJ85_F3PLEhwnZVUNSLzdSnaNcZKkl8YeC_1umnJu1pP_rJ7dwzCqRugV_urZgGd7WcQbbRa4RnDGSMfzb9gJ7oZFwUPUBoD8AwzxGuoXhgr8Qs7c/s1600/IMG_8607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWt73XAMV9hl5wTQ1DZuEl_LmUuLJ85_F3PLEhwnZVUNSLzdSnaNcZKkl8YeC_1umnJu1pP_rJ7dwzCqRugV_urZgGd7WcQbbRa4RnDGSMfzb9gJ7oZFwUPUBoD8AwzxGuoXhgr8Qs7c/s640/IMG_8607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another "authentic" decision for the room was to feature photos from our travels.  As I was getting ready to order some random prints of botanicals and birds, I decided to take a more authentic approach to the artwork that hung in our home.  I decided to have 11x14 photos from our favorite experiences displayed in the room.  <br /><br />They are framed in frames that are painted the same color as our trim, Navajo White in Satin.  The walls are painted navajo white in flat.<br /><br />Above : Stowe, Vermont and Martha's Vineyard<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55NZNAoEt6ClVWJEic45kfnOmDMbMUvKLvWnLS1Bz6vRFDagO_pCqo9TzqcAxCSlxHFxGFL7FsM9SA1cZG7Uh4boF-D3zZx78E50S0ywbp9C092N5s3JUsjOi0fvT4eJbL6iFoijFqk4/s1600/IMG_8609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55NZNAoEt6ClVWJEic45kfnOmDMbMUvKLvWnLS1Bz6vRFDagO_pCqo9TzqcAxCSlxHFxGFL7FsM9SA1cZG7Uh4boF-D3zZx78E50S0ywbp9C092N5s3JUsjOi0fvT4eJbL6iFoijFqk4/s640/IMG_8609.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I included a caption of the place and date of each photo. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzjC9RGGajGQ1UxjGiJsgfNS9Y4tIwWifC6vqTSFnW96Vv9u0jk5E3coU9XdM2LMU2WMrscnrOi4lab_F-w64ovzR8jyxh9zXfD7YDTyDOKLBQy_PC2MmKMx_91wr9-9bgDKnTc23HpE/s1600/IMG_8610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzjC9RGGajGQ1UxjGiJsgfNS9Y4tIwWifC6vqTSFnW96Vv9u0jk5E3coU9XdM2LMU2WMrscnrOi4lab_F-w64ovzR8jyxh9zXfD7YDTyDOKLBQy_PC2MmKMx_91wr9-9bgDKnTc23HpE/s640/IMG_8610.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We plan to keep adding to our collection... maybe someday we'll have an entire wall gallery devoted to it... I imagine it in a long hallway - in the same stately home in which the lantern hangs in our entryway.  <br /><br />

Cape Cod Co. Lantern & Dining Room Update

Finally, there is light in the dining room!   More specifically, a light.  Or should I say, a lantern.  The lantern.  After chatting with Mike's mom, Joy, about my vision for the fixture, I told her that I wanted something that felt authentic for a "Cape Cod" style house.  Being Joy and an expert in…

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Christmas Cookies | Sugar Cookies

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ohz-9uEVf-4qFqFC_nVnEHKZI0df66ARRkZ9qowBurf8BxavRGzPDnodRDseSMWUOpxqedn6MaVvZrI-7MD0A5Yx1Jaa5RAYuyK6GPpL5VkG7RoY-RB0yUhF8e7Y2wCSvzHGaSJ3pEY/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ohz-9uEVf-4qFqFC_nVnEHKZI0df66ARRkZ9qowBurf8BxavRGzPDnodRDseSMWUOpxqedn6MaVvZrI-7MD0A5Yx1Jaa5RAYuyK6GPpL5VkG7RoY-RB0yUhF8e7Y2wCSvzHGaSJ3pEY/s640/IMG_0078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I'm preparing for my Holiday Christmas Cookie Brunch Workshop next week, I'd thought I'd share my tried and true, favorite recipe.  This is the same recipe my mom used when my sister and I were growing up, decorating sugar cookies for each and every holiday.  The dough is incredible to snack on!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHSanPlfXF7HRLw1KXKVDjmi9H1aDUYzZaBzw-iQXW05y5U-zGZssnk83AYZ_qdIXNTz04-_MlWZ9zCdmG4u_CrEFjVRUdHTdciMFCou9_7IEW3cZ7BVcsA6UHNj0gRmol2TqFvIn6dk/s1600/best-sugar-cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHSanPlfXF7HRLw1KXKVDjmi9H1aDUYzZaBzw-iQXW05y5U-zGZssnk83AYZ_qdIXNTz04-_MlWZ9zCdmG4u_CrEFjVRUdHTdciMFCou9_7IEW3cZ7BVcsA6UHNj0gRmol2TqFvIn6dk/s640/best-sugar-cookies.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><i>Jenny's </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Deluxe Sugar Cookies</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fchristmas-cookies-sugar-cookies-from.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-6_opsFUx90c%2FUMEeYW5wxCI%2FAAAAAAAAOwg%2FBiRO0IOYqJs%2Fs640%2Fbest-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=The%20BEST%20Sugar%20Cookie%20Recipe...%20uses%20powdered%20sugar%21%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fchristmas-cookies-sugar-cookies-from.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a> <span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> </span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Sugar Cookie Recipe</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span">2 sticks of butter<br />1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar<br />2 1/2 cups of flour<br />1 tsp of vanilla<br />1 tsp of cream of tarter<br />1 tsp of baking soda<br />1 egg<br /><br />In your Kitchen Aid fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together butter and powdered sugar.  Add Flour, vanilla, cream of tarter, soda, and egg.  On slow, stir together ingredients just until combined.  Turn the dough out onto a floured board and wrap it with plastic wrap.  Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.  </span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FJl6jg_a2N4B8ehBklrrCiByREY1FnUz8r9b-Evbe0-Vp7yBVyH3dV217tXoLZFMNCAGNRXQhTG6WvsJn0hMFSVOaIBs2-BhvPQc8VAPm3FI178zBhZXtykxC9qGiQ1FylQqspvgjsMy/s1600/IMG_3602.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FJl6jg_a2N4B8ehBklrrCiByREY1FnUz8r9b-Evbe0-Vp7yBVyH3dV217tXoLZFMNCAGNRXQhTG6WvsJn0hMFSVOaIBs2-BhvPQc8VAPm3FI178zBhZXtykxC9qGiQ1FylQqspvgjsMy/s320/IMG_3602.JPG" width="320" /></span></span></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Unwrap the dough and put it on a floured board.  Be sure to flour the rollin pin, as well. </span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITOh3xr8HS8mD4_sYM6R_Ik9t4vh_VNsYoIYf7WntnZRkqfUtoLqECpzopOLJ02S2Qe4WSF_w68ddHCbVz5zQ41xv5E7RCqtUJfjt1KpNDYS4P49muk9NTvrWYDOcxVo1Ab3TfmCbRwbY/s1600/IMG_3625.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITOh3xr8HS8mD4_sYM6R_Ik9t4vh_VNsYoIYf7WntnZRkqfUtoLqECpzopOLJ02S2Qe4WSF_w68ddHCbVz5zQ41xv5E7RCqtUJfjt1KpNDYS4P49muk9NTvrWYDOcxVo1Ab3TfmCbRwbY/s320/IMG_3625.JPG" width="320" /></span></span></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Roll out dough until 1/4 inch thick. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AqFgaYUERgcFbYECbqFXWjier46toFyu9gAcBE4974LCIkhPWIoOSar7MPcG_CWxCd6IqRn_PkO2bEExYLftegAHw6C6qKhe4yR60-68Aw4wGQnke0CnMgNOWSMUWM2zYARHLhfNJxMk/s1600/IMG_3638.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AqFgaYUERgcFbYECbqFXWjier46toFyu9gAcBE4974LCIkhPWIoOSar7MPcG_CWxCd6IqRn_PkO2bEExYLftegAHw6C6qKhe4yR60-68Aw4wGQnke0CnMgNOWSMUWM2zYARHLhfNJxMk/s320/IMG_3638.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Cut shapes.   Place them on a parchment lined baking sheet.  </span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Bake for 6-8 minutes at 350 degrees just until the edges begin to turn brown - baking time will depend on size and thickness of the cookie.  </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7Or8tH3S4V24vJ02qiD-HQiGnfPYPFRN1Kc7Jw6h5nuxZLXRw5VJqiyqkfJBMNqNu-0djYCxvBpsNF2pf9Ub0bsL60ZpNP_7zB04HzUKtq0SWJ41I8TLbhvoSalOt1cNz6cVs1FuiDji/s1600/IMG_3683.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7Or8tH3S4V24vJ02qiD-HQiGnfPYPFRN1Kc7Jw6h5nuxZLXRw5VJqiyqkfJBMNqNu-0djYCxvBpsNF2pf9Ub0bsL60ZpNP_7zB04HzUKtq0SWJ41I8TLbhvoSalOt1cNz6cVs1FuiDji/s320/IMG_3683.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Utilize scraps of dough by making them into a ball and re-rolling them and cutting shapes. </span></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfWqAEzL9wCM9LGgr4pLsr4lKQWFfzlHGcGLDpKIiEOr5efnkYhrrTTTvhMDbuKcD1wMT0l_ehDKyeDCI0WBIzu2_DR3S97Aomf4-HjVpWLoOoIImiKnLf7oqeSVb3Kxk0n7A2tJU42A/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfWqAEzL9wCM9LGgr4pLsr4lKQWFfzlHGcGLDpKIiEOr5efnkYhrrTTTvhMDbuKcD1wMT0l_ehDKyeDCI0WBIzu2_DR3S97Aomf4-HjVpWLoOoIImiKnLf7oqeSVb3Kxk0n7A2tJU42A/s640/IMG_0068.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Royal Icing</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 12px;">3 egg whites<br />4 cups of powdered sugar<br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 12px;">In the Kitchen Aid fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until almost frothy.  Add in the powdered sugar and whisk on slow until smooth.  You may need to add more or less powdered sugar or water to achieve desired thickness.  For sugar cookies, you want the icing to be thin enough that it will fall back on itself and smooth itself out, but not too thin so it will run off of the cookie.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Good colors are so important to making professional looking sugar cookies.  Here are my tips :</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Red : When making red you need to use a lot of food coloring.  I also add orange to the red to make it less pink.  Add just a touch of green to the red to make it less electric.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Green : I add a little bit of yellow and orange to green to make it more of a natural green.  For christmas, I like to use two shades of green - light and dark. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Blue : I add a little bit of yellow and orange to blue to make it softer.  It is a more sophisticated looking blue. </span></span></div><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Christmas Cookies | Sugar Cookies

As I'm preparing for my Holiday Christmas Cookie Brunch Workshop next week, I'd thought I'd share my tried and true, favorite recipe.  This is the same recipe my mom used when my sister and I were growing up, decorating sugar cookies for each and every holiday.  The dough is incredible to snack on!J…

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Home Depot Holiday Style Challenge | Our Mantle Makeover

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMIiLlb2NrrwhyphenhyphenNEAP4jawOFXlHoTA4o4JviQgHtedQKP-0NBfnaF-_7SEfIuEdmxzphUA5HAWtqhVn6RuXfddZXEXJ94O0Clq_OU63g_THZ6yPns9KHU4sHldGjCfI6RG6nAZpq30oWM/s1600/IMG_2969_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMIiLlb2NrrwhyphenhyphenNEAP4jawOFXlHoTA4o4JviQgHtedQKP-0NBfnaF-_7SEfIuEdmxzphUA5HAWtqhVn6RuXfddZXEXJ94O0Clq_OU63g_THZ6yPns9KHU4sHldGjCfI6RG6nAZpq30oWM/s640/IMG_2969_2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjdGwTOY3WjrL7KRuAKOYzWcYWVaBKL7h5kZXQ4cgPvcz7W3PH90FSZS3G4b6gR7RrLMt13rOGKPt7vaMwxI_eN6K2KDEFcV3gbMObkpHs4yF8PQbS0MlbQNezgM7CvEhzCdtVXjhSpU/s1600/IMG_0743.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjdGwTOY3WjrL7KRuAKOYzWcYWVaBKL7h5kZXQ4cgPvcz7W3PH90FSZS3G4b6gR7RrLMt13rOGKPt7vaMwxI_eN6K2KDEFcV3gbMObkpHs4yF8PQbS0MlbQNezgM7CvEhzCdtVXjhSpU/s320/IMG_0743.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>To kick off the Holiday Season, I thought I'd share the mantle I created for the Home Depot Holiday Challenge.  After selecting bloggers to participate in their Holiday Challenge, they sent us supplies and gift cards to transform areas of our homes into winter wonderlands.  I was thrilled that I was selected to design a mantle... and was able to use my gift card to purchase gas logs for our fireplace!  <br /><br />To see all of the photos and details about my design, visit <a href="http://ext.homedepot.com/community/blog/christmas-mantel-ideas-from-jenny-of-everyday-occassions/" target="_blank">here</a>!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0-TF9dLt4bmOaYvUYdnDbUYdvDe99aXr6cfBqWGhqycUrsxAgNpBuHIk_DrhI2hJ5_ILL43rfmzeBaKlPyup6OADUP3zf2GVPv4Bs59eIiVLpUEbO02XYHmPoZ_Hgb5Yh2UkhAWxSbg/s1600/IMG_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0-TF9dLt4bmOaYvUYdnDbUYdvDe99aXr6cfBqWGhqycUrsxAgNpBuHIk_DrhI2hJ5_ILL43rfmzeBaKlPyup6OADUP3zf2GVPv4Bs59eIiVLpUEbO02XYHmPoZ_Hgb5Yh2UkhAWxSbg/s640/IMG_0727.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sES9zFAcvcdCvFuYPzIiH4RazOIU8zA2NP6ve_1jZNTEvUKoIR6ATNCAaQVAuoX2Nnjwo4vuuDYCLVs3Pzcu6u8xJY5uNuMQFlS1saua2aCdsA3pDyTEsS5863jGFuzLiQJlz-W6fqw/s1600/IMG_0761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sES9zFAcvcdCvFuYPzIiH4RazOIU8zA2NP6ve_1jZNTEvUKoIR6ATNCAaQVAuoX2Nnjwo4vuuDYCLVs3Pzcu6u8xJY5uNuMQFlS1saua2aCdsA3pDyTEsS5863jGFuzLiQJlz-W6fqw/s640/IMG_0761.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>

Home Depot Holiday Style Challenge | Our Mantle Makeover

To kick off the Holiday Season, I thought I'd share the mantle I created for the Home Depot Holiday Challenge.  After selecting bloggers to participate in their Holiday Challenge, they sent us supplies and gift cards to transform areas of our homes into winter wonderlands.  I was thrilled that I…

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How to Make The Prettiest Pie Crust | Pie Crust Recipe | Plus... Chocolate Meringue Pie Recipe

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoAXORMCApXvjJxv7Y7XrmgvNfufoSGzf78wUvtg9zMHGnFMSJsMM0vgAPXmh1JCUPZ6ulOdcgTW_IJF7OgsWE-XEoxJZ5vWCFr_DMt2RaxsEMqr8w2EssjDYC-NN52m-8mUzVTqiqns/s1600/IMG_0264.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoAXORMCApXvjJxv7Y7XrmgvNfufoSGzf78wUvtg9zMHGnFMSJsMM0vgAPXmh1JCUPZ6ulOdcgTW_IJF7OgsWE-XEoxJZ5vWCFr_DMt2RaxsEMqr8w2EssjDYC-NN52m-8mUzVTqiqns/s640/IMG_0264.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fhow-to-make-prettiest-pie-crust-pie.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-byn5kBo77eE%2FUKpWD-ht9zI%2FAAAAAAAAOkE%2FSY3JZ-0GqVA%2Fs1600%2Fpie-crst.jpg&description=How%20to%20make%20the%20Prettiest%20Pie%20Crust%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fhow-to-make-prettiest-pie-crust-pie.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><br />If you're counting, yes, this is the third pie post in a row.  It is Thanksgiving, after all.  This is only not a recipe, but a tutorial on making a pretty pie... a step-by-step guide to crimping a pretty pie crust.  After all, most pies taste great, but a really pretty pie can put it over the top! <br /><br /><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Iljd8qSzU1eVpAAB69wjj2arxrxK2E6ZxxgTXsNeARsQnqwchrjrmdn75rlmhgwwRjT07zgwDzvhB7aQB8gys561kfqDRUc9I0h0eZsfvcJ_haw6kGlBk3KxoLwhl84omKSSJrgJTaw/s1600/IMG_0261.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Iljd8qSzU1eVpAAB69wjj2arxrxK2E6ZxxgTXsNeARsQnqwchrjrmdn75rlmhgwwRjT07zgwDzvhB7aQB8gys561kfqDRUc9I0h0eZsfvcJ_haw6kGlBk3KxoLwhl84omKSSJrgJTaw/s640/IMG_0261.jpg" width="426" /></a>The Easiest & Flakiest </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Pie Crust Recipe</span><br /><br />2 pie crusts <br /><br />18 tablespoons cold butter (2 sticks + 2 tablespoons)<br />3 cups all-purpose flour <br />1 teaspoon salt <br />2 tablespoons sugar <br />6 to 8 tablespoons ice water<br /><br />In a food processor with the steel blade, add flour, salt and sugar.  Cut butter into small pieces, then add it too the food processor.  Pulse until the mixture is crumbly.  Slowly pour in water until the mixture begins to form a ball or come together as dough. <br /><br />Dump it out onto a board and form it into two disks.  Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsThOPeGH80FSq1ZWtfO-1GMEzAN1US8u0FDH2CxT4zFzauXs9wuPmNGzr04wdeYmuQOEzhM4-zhDk8zqixsoHt5uuYI-Ve_Jr7dp_1q4UJ8x8DxGP_j4vkBdaR3oY7l2CPRTzHbrn80/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsThOPeGH80FSq1ZWtfO-1GMEzAN1US8u0FDH2CxT4zFzauXs9wuPmNGzr04wdeYmuQOEzhM4-zhDk8zqixsoHt5uuYI-Ve_Jr7dp_1q4UJ8x8DxGP_j4vkBdaR3oY7l2CPRTzHbrn80/s640/IMG_0246.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap and place it on a well floured board.  Roll it out with a rolling pin, moving the dough in between each roll to form a circle.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxISRjgvB0o8j8a0roxcbR65QePYNyHHWmG8v1EkuXbMgMpTfoZPUhP17Eek1Z5FNaPSQ95tQ04C9lHadTVIPfus7uJTWABFGMIn0lVmpeFEcPSdbto4Yowuue9gNyCziS1TfYZZp4eQ/s1600/IMG_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxISRjgvB0o8j8a0roxcbR65QePYNyHHWmG8v1EkuXbMgMpTfoZPUhP17Eek1Z5FNaPSQ95tQ04C9lHadTVIPfus7uJTWABFGMIn0lVmpeFEcPSdbto4Yowuue9gNyCziS1TfYZZp4eQ/s640/IMG_0249.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fold it into quarters. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8l1WbivkuJZDlh_x6CocOUwFYtFSJUZJ0pIXuFuk-Pdyi_lq6bDi8ocurWZbtJwdbp835qv_lnoms1uzxgYAlLN9C0CGJ9YLUlPrXEfUJHyyS9rab-9_31nMTlu6n-cESasR_8GkE7k/s1600/IMG_0250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8l1WbivkuJZDlh_x6CocOUwFYtFSJUZJ0pIXuFuk-Pdyi_lq6bDi8ocurWZbtJwdbp835qv_lnoms1uzxgYAlLN9C0CGJ9YLUlPrXEfUJHyyS9rab-9_31nMTlu6n-cESasR_8GkE7k/s640/IMG_0250.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Put it into the pie plate with the point of the fold in the center.  Unfold. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3ny7d4SItE1v9ghA3hlS8XUB9jlSMKXX_urZnz2gMCiSi3H6FqwkiENWJbENxzSIEhtHQUx3-pEpfk7D40g7Wcyi99ZFrbu1UNK0K0XoUO_Vbi4D31q5uLl8mugOUlZiaPrEGc0y3Xo/s1600/IMG_0252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3ny7d4SItE1v9ghA3hlS8XUB9jlSMKXX_urZnz2gMCiSi3H6FqwkiENWJbENxzSIEhtHQUx3-pEpfk7D40g7Wcyi99ZFrbu1UNK0K0XoUO_Vbi4D31q5uLl8mugOUlZiaPrEGc0y3Xo/s640/IMG_0252.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fold under the edges to create a nice 'bump' around the edge. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuq0s1OAtry0Fghhxef6hE3un_HccQZnd3jBvk9364QpIvF56f26ae6-h6eeEnfo2x_j2SveGISNHq20UnCxYFqTQOPCWZWZqNGTJA0eUe5nNjwI0RKYE3X8GkqhurcFLJyjuUjyLZMyo/s1600/IMG_0257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuq0s1OAtry0Fghhxef6hE3un_HccQZnd3jBvk9364QpIvF56f26ae6-h6eeEnfo2x_j2SveGISNHq20UnCxYFqTQOPCWZWZqNGTJA0eUe5nNjwI0RKYE3X8GkqhurcFLJyjuUjyLZMyo/s640/IMG_0257.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />Pinch the edge between your thumb and forefinger.  Move along the edge, all the way around. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqN4uZkA06Sixp7kZMragLB3ksY820Q4VssIjgETHGkwsnAvjwOSHvLGXO-0fE_ycYr3-pcm4MNHHfW9tjbprPDa9vT984hw_-ykxGUnrJSrA8Ae4L9Vm7HZF756tHXayVZTKPGzFt8g/s1600/IMG_0265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqN4uZkA06Sixp7kZMragLB3ksY820Q4VssIjgETHGkwsnAvjwOSHvLGXO-0fE_ycYr3-pcm4MNHHfW9tjbprPDa9vT984hw_-ykxGUnrJSrA8Ae4L9Vm7HZF756tHXayVZTKPGzFt8g/s640/IMG_0265.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Use pie weights when baking if you are "Blind Baking" the shell, or baking the shell before it is filled like you would for a cream pie, like chocolate, banana or a lemon meringue.   These pie weights were my Granny's...  they probably filled 100's of lemon meringue pie shells.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NEzDHDgT_E66pAGtc9Q-eNYfgoea-ZBOnRMnORYHaLYNoj7lVUOstCYzp9bqZNFJ_h2_6wFsg8D_HYbuFkS0riUnZYaWzNaChA774y4txMfCbHnLknn4DgDdSBrzkeoKOL1zj80dhWA/s1600/IMG_0276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NEzDHDgT_E66pAGtc9Q-eNYfgoea-ZBOnRMnORYHaLYNoj7lVUOstCYzp9bqZNFJ_h2_6wFsg8D_HYbuFkS0riUnZYaWzNaChA774y4txMfCbHnLknn4DgDdSBrzkeoKOL1zj80dhWA/s640/IMG_0276.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Oops.  I forgot to prick the bottom before the pie weights went in! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw3XjrmuORP1SFZKUf3whKYcjoV_7QYZtZXo0JSKvksbzjKOrQsBTyRc-fAk0EJ3CNi9eHD8azkHPXGdLG_0-f9P3zWAZL0hhPEYSffpEz50Xt1bm3ZpKR2CJJLtGQ1YzIm7YQ4ZSBNyU/s1600/IMG_0278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw3XjrmuORP1SFZKUf3whKYcjoV_7QYZtZXo0JSKvksbzjKOrQsBTyRc-fAk0EJ3CNi9eHD8azkHPXGdLG_0-f9P3zWAZL0hhPEYSffpEz50Xt1bm3ZpKR2CJJLtGQ1YzIm7YQ4ZSBNyU/s640/IMG_0278.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the crust after it was baked, then filled with chocolate custard.  I used my friend (and cousin-in-law's) Lorin's recipe.  Lorin made this for my family and it was so good, I begged her for the recipe.  Here it is!<br /><br />Chocolate Custard Filling: <br />1 cup sugar<br />3 Tbs cornstarch <br />¼ tsp salt<br />2 Cups milk<br />2 ounces unsweetened choc/or cocoa conversion<br />3 slightly beaten egg yolks<br />I tsp vanilla<br />2 Tbs butter<br /><br />Combine sugar,cornstarch, chocolate and salt: gradually add milk. Cook and stir over medium high heat till bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Stir moderate amount of mixture into yolks: immediately return to hot mixture and cook 2 minutes stirring constantly. Remove from heat add butter and vanilla. Pour into shell. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGXqRlXNZrktUzXWgNXWF6TpSHlpqL8cB2cwA0-1fZaJbhvTYpNNkrX4TkKw9iMmkzsF1Bu87P_5QuUzFYSuntHoJiUKUMl84hGxuKrI2rXLrJPAytPY0hduXAukMxN9AY5SvJPw9grM/s1600/IMG_0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGXqRlXNZrktUzXWgNXWF6TpSHlpqL8cB2cwA0-1fZaJbhvTYpNNkrX4TkKw9iMmkzsF1Bu87P_5QuUzFYSuntHoJiUKUMl84hGxuKrI2rXLrJPAytPY0hduXAukMxN9AY5SvJPw9grM/s640/IMG_0286.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Top it with mernigue :<br /><br />Meringue: <br />4 egg whites <br />6 tblsp. Granulated sugar<br />¼ tsp. cream of tarter <br />½ tsp. vanilla<br /><br />With your mixer on high speed beat egg whites, cream of tarter and vanilla. Gradually add in sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form. Top pie with meringue and bake at 350 until golden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMRd6f2XpzApYIhqcE_ntESi2NQ_ozj65FFNc84hOptWwW3NLjKhJYeLCgI0BgTdXOaApG7p3SBUamCpGWVMemQnY9BZrTxVmiX_3TeV8Y3y1whM64hMXPWdq_2KHm1OvCK2mm-D1_Cw/s1600/IMG_0304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMRd6f2XpzApYIhqcE_ntESi2NQ_ozj65FFNc84hOptWwW3NLjKhJYeLCgI0BgTdXOaApG7p3SBUamCpGWVMemQnY9BZrTxVmiX_3TeV8Y3y1whM64hMXPWdq_2KHm1OvCK2mm-D1_Cw/s640/IMG_0304.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /> Post toast. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46KxaNvRnWvLcCAP-G_Qx2xskQGcT4sNByW_uYEkrgfCo_MWEFK6hctzN9dimSN3A-fyks0T40elxG6HijCSxLrzIBKdVATVFX6pcgb7EaYX6aGHCXWvWBUBrOU6Bazn4_BMvyudYoHQ/s1600/IMG_0324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46KxaNvRnWvLcCAP-G_Qx2xskQGcT4sNByW_uYEkrgfCo_MWEFK6hctzN9dimSN3A-fyks0T40elxG6HijCSxLrzIBKdVATVFX6pcgb7EaYX6aGHCXWvWBUBrOU6Bazn4_BMvyudYoHQ/s640/IMG_0324.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />Toasted meringue cloud!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzOBZuDb-vSoNp6KQEw70_jH1N30ufnhOM22z-ktD32fPs_jVU0-m6tMrRAo-YDgErrczlgnp7XbyVH6yr0-ij7akWS-ufdR6wIp3_-UwXInPBlKInT4SJAgVfTbA1ZvA6Kx6o7S6CEk/s1600/pie-crst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzOBZuDb-vSoNp6KQEw70_jH1N30ufnhOM22z-ktD32fPs_jVU0-m6tMrRAo-YDgErrczlgnp7XbyVH6yr0-ij7akWS-ufdR6wIp3_-UwXInPBlKInT4SJAgVfTbA1ZvA6Kx6o7S6CEk/s1600/pie-crst.jpg" /></a></div><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fhow-to-make-prettiest-pie-crust-pie.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-byn5kBo77eE%2FUKpWD-ht9zI%2FAAAAAAAAOkE%2FSY3JZ-0GqVA%2Fs1600%2Fpie-crst.jpg&description=How%20to%20make%20the%20Prettiest%20Pie%20Crust%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fhow-to-make-prettiest-pie-crust-pie.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><br />Here is the easy to pin strip! <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

How to Make The Prettiest Pie Crust | Pie Crust Recipe | Plus... Chocolate Meringue Pie Recipe

 If you're counting, yes, this is the third pie post in a row.  It is Thanksgiving, after all.  This is only not a recipe, but a tutorial on making a pretty pie... a step-by-step guide to crimping a pretty pie crust.  After all, most pies taste great, but a really pretty pie can put it over the top!…

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Leaf Topped Apple & Cranberry Cobbler with Orange Zest, Cinnamon & Nutmeg

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uLrpZaTppGs2WYD5BEBajM2BkPPm00-3_CS8FFCHj1CdaYCcp5fVstVrD8Dm1vHNa2Ibm889xvsKE_ScuX2vGpCffpkdxteAaFvHXaPAt9Tlxvd2Y9FTLtaz8RQ4tv62-nL020SQrvuC/s1600/IMG_8282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uLrpZaTppGs2WYD5BEBajM2BkPPm00-3_CS8FFCHj1CdaYCcp5fVstVrD8Dm1vHNa2Ibm889xvsKE_ScuX2vGpCffpkdxteAaFvHXaPAt9Tlxvd2Y9FTLtaz8RQ4tv62-nL020SQrvuC/s640/IMG_8282.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, it is not Thanksgiving unless there are multiple desserts.  In addition to the Traditional Pumpkin and Pecan Pies, try adding this Apple Cobbler to your slew of desserts this Thanksgiving.  The mixture of baking apples and fresh cranberries with cinnamon, orange zest and nutmeg will make your house smell like The Holidays.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-2-UF6mlZVXWDEjAiV7ZgJaISJ8m9VqwOWCKyufGDGPnZVDOj8Rrs6rn9kc2O4GfPeCPwGirYj-QeuMWeWI79P4-Ev3Ag1W6Wb7VuZ4jq1Za-MaX31oVQjD06-IcHr6GpmGaUAmcvAr-/s1600/IMG_8269.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-2-UF6mlZVXWDEjAiV7ZgJaISJ8m9VqwOWCKyufGDGPnZVDOj8Rrs6rn9kc2O4GfPeCPwGirYj-QeuMWeWI79P4-Ev3Ag1W6Wb7VuZ4jq1Za-MaX31oVQjD06-IcHr6GpmGaUAmcvAr-/s640/IMG_8269.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />The New England version of a "cobbler" is pieces of pie dough that are torn and layered on the top of a fruit mixture - when cooked, it looks like a cobbled street.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwI995tA5zdUb2_S0jA0zRJBOP1fG5bbL6CjpLTC96oSoEuM9AbyadC_yA62dHY2GP98rEwM3-wwQH-hpXSpn3SeaQ63EA10YYn5LB7GrERSJAwHxfRqSsdPE2CiQrmsSHComxUqeVjDy/s1600/IMG_8248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwI995tA5zdUb2_S0jA0zRJBOP1fG5bbL6CjpLTC96oSoEuM9AbyadC_yA62dHY2GP98rEwM3-wwQH-hpXSpn3SeaQ63EA10YYn5LB7GrERSJAwHxfRqSsdPE2CiQrmsSHComxUqeVjDy/s640/IMG_8248.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I decided to take a new twist on this version of a cobbler and decided to use cutouts of leaves as my top, so it will look like a pile of leaves.  Besides being so very, very simple (I even used store-bought pie dough), it looks extra festive for Fall.<br /><br />The filling is same filling I used on my Apple Cranberry Crisp, but I used fresh cranberries as they are in season.  They add a fabulous tartness to the pie that makes it really extra special.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguz34E5fWnWCFCbiGnPnHnGScQFOZzDP6aBfPFspw0Jn9e9xE-mI33Ezfk-JRs6NQ9S8RqHMRrUb7fY8TYBnWikNdKNnLCy3iRTcJKLO8YpgNF05FGDYBZ0Hdk6fA8XtS66Dy9HOu-uI3E/s1600/IMG_8278.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguz34E5fWnWCFCbiGnPnHnGScQFOZzDP6aBfPFspw0Jn9e9xE-mI33Ezfk-JRs6NQ9S8RqHMRrUb7fY8TYBnWikNdKNnLCy3iRTcJKLO8YpgNF05FGDYBZ0Hdk6fA8XtS66Dy9HOu-uI3E/s400/IMG_8278.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Leaf Topped Apple & Cranberry Cobbler </span><br /><i>Orange Zest, Cinnamon & Nutmeg</i><br /><br />Apple Cranberry Filling :<br /><br />10 apples (4 pounds), cored and peeled<br />3/4 cup of dried cranberries<br />2 teaspoons of orange zest<br />4 tablespoons of orange juice<br />1/2 cup of sugar<br />1/2 cup of flour<br />1 teaspoon of cinnamon<br />1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg<br />......<br />1 store-bought or homemade pie dough<br />egg<br />1/4 cup of sugar<br /><br />Cut the peeled and cored apples to large cubes, about 3/4 inch pieces.  Place them in a large bowl.  Add cranberries, zest, orange juice, sugar, flour, cinnamon and nutmeg.  Toss together with a big spoon until all of the fruit is well coated.  Pour the fruit into a casserole dish or deep baking dish. <br /><br />Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, covered with foil.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wSSroLvGTw2-X0ceBHUpX5-fgnAn1ThAjXIIXOfwBDW2K6NSl6nxPMkAsdJETCf5sCPkv_sBOkwhfaS122TyOzBBe5B0Qc6cbNhLclCMt8Z5EaMf99LQGxC6IOLV1TcurBmThv8_mDAk/s1600/IMG_8247.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wSSroLvGTw2-X0ceBHUpX5-fgnAn1ThAjXIIXOfwBDW2K6NSl6nxPMkAsdJETCf5sCPkv_sBOkwhfaS122TyOzBBe5B0Qc6cbNhLclCMt8Z5EaMf99LQGxC6IOLV1TcurBmThv8_mDAk/s640/IMG_8247.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />After baking for 30 minutes, cut out leaves using a cookie cutter.  Place them on top of the half baked apples in a scattered fashion.  Beat the egg in a small bowl, then brush it on the top.  Sprinkle the sugar over the dough.<br /><br />Bake for 30 more minutes

Leaf Topped Apple & Cranberry Cobbler with Orange Zest, Cinnamon & Nutmeg

As I mentioned, it is not Thanksgiving unless there are multiple desserts.  In addition to the Traditional Pumpkin and Pecan Pies, try adding this Apple Cobbler to your slew of desserts this Thanksgiving.  The mixture of baking apples and fresh cranberries with cinnamon, orange zest and nutmeg w…

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DIY Thanksgiving Centerpiece | Roses, Mums & Broom Cob in a Pumpkin "Vase"

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix76P0njy4EqewFF-uV-eAn-kfMlQwr1yGFOvUM4kBroRxW_QGlQgumpNlizgBSuFYRUflRHgb2Fr1WLRulEc2YatANRIf_BXCGZqPTy2UXpx1TUfWteLWk4T4Kbv9h7RjOdN35-DBK2Bf/s1600/IMG_8159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix76P0njy4EqewFF-uV-eAn-kfMlQwr1yGFOvUM4kBroRxW_QGlQgumpNlizgBSuFYRUflRHgb2Fr1WLRulEc2YatANRIf_BXCGZqPTy2UXpx1TUfWteLWk4T4Kbv9h7RjOdN35-DBK2Bf/s640/IMG_8159.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fdiy-thanksgiving-centerpiece-roses-mums.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-9-nFBdWQXmA%2FUKUwlLE9AHI%2FAAAAAAAAOck%2FLxDpmrrOp1Y%2Fs1600%2FDIY-Thanksgiving-Centerpiec.jpg&description=DIY%20Step-by-Step%20Rose%20%26%20Mum%20Centerpiece%20in%20a%20Pumpkin%20for%20Thanksgiving%0A%0AThanksgiving%20Table%20Setting%20%26%20Centerpiece%0A%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fdiy-thanksgiving-centerpiece-roses-mums.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love traditional Thanksgiving - everything.  Traditional colors, a traditional menu, flowers, table setting, etc.  I'm not sure if creating a floral centerpiece in a pumpkin would be traditional in the eyes of generations past, but in the Martha Stewart era of holidays, it surely seems like a classic. </div><br />It has been about 6 years since I created a floral centerpiece in a pumpkin... I am not sure if I thought it was too over done, or if I hadn't had the occasion to do it.  Or maybe I got lazy and didn't want to go to the trouble of carving out the pumpkin.  This year, I've been itching to do it.  I thought about if for Halloween, then Emma's costume took priority in the project department.  I thought about it for my October Harvest Workshop... then making giant pots of Beef & Butternut Chili took over my free time.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, here we are at Thanksgiving as I prepare for my Thanksgiving Workshops this week.  Part of the workshop includes my tips and suggestions for setting a Thanksgiving table - the perfect opportunity for making a floral pumpkin centerpiece.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8m75ZgsDCgv3q_k8rEpK1cXj8R4-CzbohEMkagkBh0Mc0LzaN-4qy_TAyKPbP6oGPGfJkHHKOVfGhU5-ikSM0ACGzZZRBiIpVmC1kIGHRaD41uVWDyer19HVVPzDGwOGGlBZefL8Nij7q/s1600/IMG_8117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8m75ZgsDCgv3q_k8rEpK1cXj8R4-CzbohEMkagkBh0Mc0LzaN-4qy_TAyKPbP6oGPGfJkHHKOVfGhU5-ikSM0ACGzZZRBiIpVmC1kIGHRaD41uVWDyer19HVVPzDGwOGGlBZefL8Nij7q/s640/IMG_8117.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTac3DkPXdkVC05lw4RutuPhCfh8BCA2WLmsmlbm_LguQFs6dIRC8iMnwhCuQFcuPiifbGQZcGaxA-2xZXopFyNaCUFEFhwBIqEQQobv0rcznebCduzxtGdBZ8uEy-5WxYBkplPznwXbI/s1600/IMG_8119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTac3DkPXdkVC05lw4RutuPhCfh8BCA2WLmsmlbm_LguQFs6dIRC8iMnwhCuQFcuPiifbGQZcGaxA-2xZXopFyNaCUFEFhwBIqEQQobv0rcznebCduzxtGdBZ8uEy-5WxYBkplPznwXbI/s400/IMG_8119.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>I started by selecting my flowers and colors - getting a feel for what the colors will look like with the table setting, in the room.<br /><br />I chose these apricot roses with burnt orange and deep red mums.  I needed something that would drape downward in the arrangement, so I selected the wheat-looking stems.  <br /><br />As you can see (and you might remember), we received a large collection of Spode Woodland china that I always use during the Fall and Winter holidays.  I have admired them for years and am so glad to have them - and I still LOVE them every year when I get them out.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13PpkHewtUtEW0vw1UwBh3UH84Er40epoYMxluR1mVorYx7Ttbyx4uJuTUAOqQW9mZJ_6pX_Pyc1tRR91qlW_cHVEd02kzw5ta_5IbjeBXhy9Ue2nmbeSsZi1JP6HU9a5vpgI3CQFlPG6/s1600/IMG_8120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13PpkHewtUtEW0vw1UwBh3UH84Er40epoYMxluR1mVorYx7Ttbyx4uJuTUAOqQW9mZJ_6pX_Pyc1tRR91qlW_cHVEd02kzw5ta_5IbjeBXhy9Ue2nmbeSsZi1JP6HU9a5vpgI3CQFlPG6/s640/IMG_8120.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I will use this glass vase set inside the pumpkin to make the arrangement in, so I cut the top to be sure it would fit into my opening.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IqBQXp9dKZ3QI_F7xxhvWug_PY3Se9VCszhFYIWgn9Ay2oB5hP9x2-jOXVaZagvWWgYW8ZupW6rxhM5Ecfex2c9U18WuTBNpc6FRuhxDBd4WweRi6d3e6Hd4F4p1JHluT4DcbKXb4dJ5/s1600/IMG_8123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IqBQXp9dKZ3QI_F7xxhvWug_PY3Se9VCszhFYIWgn9Ay2oB5hP9x2-jOXVaZagvWWgYW8ZupW6rxhM5Ecfex2c9U18WuTBNpc6FRuhxDBd4WweRi6d3e6Hd4F4p1JHluT4DcbKXb4dJ5/s640/IMG_8123.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I cut the opening, then scooped out the insides with an ice cream scoop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJU70buclT4gtCqGh7kJZO_rL3lKMgUjxO03yv-opaTQsNUXwxb1RoI2MEyyTt-KLiRQD0Pz-vmE5qaRHKLiR6kEEMMZxQM6ZnnRRxrou8reRZvJiFvZo-mJffhRDLIaX4pifnOjntJdP/s1600/IMG_8124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJU70buclT4gtCqGh7kJZO_rL3lKMgUjxO03yv-opaTQsNUXwxb1RoI2MEyyTt-KLiRQD0Pz-vmE5qaRHKLiR6kEEMMZxQM6ZnnRRxrou8reRZvJiFvZo-mJffhRDLIaX4pifnOjntJdP/s640/IMG_8124.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I put the vase in with a square of oasis foam, then filled it with water.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDW9B3HADXj5u3JuYzJzvgpg1I3yHf_BoZU2idHxAN21x9UTEzVyHCEtZO4t7bf5iFxPP789Rvfp3rCBZlpwbKYSOHqVVEQTjR6r2NvXTiS30W18SiN9_DVCxYHFEfwvcxtdg9-cxNoX3m/s1600/IMG_8128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDW9B3HADXj5u3JuYzJzvgpg1I3yHf_BoZU2idHxAN21x9UTEzVyHCEtZO4t7bf5iFxPP789Rvfp3rCBZlpwbKYSOHqVVEQTjR6r2NvXTiS30W18SiN9_DVCxYHFEfwvcxtdg9-cxNoX3m/s640/IMG_8128.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I started by putting in the best roses, trying to achieve the shape.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodWX-DP5f4vGcb93ideH8wpNWdDNb6i5SGM4w3v9oamu31UG5krqrfyCKZybIN-UaU9bEUawvcXmiY9D74yBTXFBTo8bvEd7lAq1VD5FH0iu9GBduKJVonqc8BT7CAjMVIin2SWaPYsgz/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodWX-DP5f4vGcb93ideH8wpNWdDNb6i5SGM4w3v9oamu31UG5krqrfyCKZybIN-UaU9bEUawvcXmiY9D74yBTXFBTo8bvEd7lAq1VD5FH0iu9GBduKJVonqc8BT7CAjMVIin2SWaPYsgz/s640/IMG_8129.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And then, because flowers look best in groups of the same, I bunched 2-3 flowers next to each of those roses.  I like to use different sizes of roses in these groups to add interest - and it looks more natural. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW4mmdKyha-5FjFEdH6jlzWvSnkxzWixjN1JJd-m5Ko8JE2K25LxjGcIST4aTnibPNXS78LJJuHhFOCiKwOAfWf_Xb70-Smafy2dVsRR5BijIw5hZOKsCGWpFHVcJ80_VXlJGph-CeCZ7/s1600/IMG_8130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW4mmdKyha-5FjFEdH6jlzWvSnkxzWixjN1JJd-m5Ko8JE2K25LxjGcIST4aTnibPNXS78LJJuHhFOCiKwOAfWf_Xb70-Smafy2dVsRR5BijIw5hZOKsCGWpFHVcJ80_VXlJGph-CeCZ7/s640/IMG_8130.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MdDSgYvDd1Y5knbU9_wJ-Aqqb0YMiWYeTJlDnUB8vHKbSJhNL3561SaeE0WvkcneJ4VJSXfUbbaxnfivxjNEI09z4zoHDwYI41Vh9UpxNZ6SMoRj9zvU9G-0Z0tU-MNjjyjpwy4mLN5p/s1600/IMG_8131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MdDSgYvDd1Y5knbU9_wJ-Aqqb0YMiWYeTJlDnUB8vHKbSJhNL3561SaeE0WvkcneJ4VJSXfUbbaxnfivxjNEI09z4zoHDwYI41Vh9UpxNZ6SMoRj9zvU9G-0Z0tU-MNjjyjpwy4mLN5p/s640/IMG_8131.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Then, I started plugging in groupings of mums in the same fashion.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxBjeKWRMDwv4O84L5lZnVtEYfKTwDSyZOivYg1tkcryUzL1SixTRQoiPgitzfjFiIiWcrubWTxVXl7qN5k59MIt_WJ6ci2lnVnkH3LNnN383nKKH1z758z0NmLJKliHe6_UhNUP9w1oI/s1600/IMG_8133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxBjeKWRMDwv4O84L5lZnVtEYfKTwDSyZOivYg1tkcryUzL1SixTRQoiPgitzfjFiIiWcrubWTxVXl7qN5k59MIt_WJ6ci2lnVnkH3LNnN383nKKH1z758z0NmLJKliHe6_UhNUP9w1oI/s640/IMG_8133.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It is starting to take shape.  At this point, I realized it was a little 'tight,' so I pulled the bottom roses out by an inch or so, so it didn't look so much like a ball of flowers on a pumpkin.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wqqlEoO4-PVxwis4WyDp_nwPubXVSNGCvbeAdDaV5zuGqqAHbpchOK7l9RDSbF3zHczS0e-cQKsqbydxISZkzeWSScYzffVFahTZP25Bk_G2dZLsHFxtuCFgJvGdbZCkmc6-KUlKDl1R/s1600/IMG_8135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wqqlEoO4-PVxwis4WyDp_nwPubXVSNGCvbeAdDaV5zuGqqAHbpchOK7l9RDSbF3zHczS0e-cQKsqbydxISZkzeWSScYzffVFahTZP25Bk_G2dZLsHFxtuCFgJvGdbZCkmc6-KUlKDl1R/s640/IMG_8135.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To soften the entire arrangement and to add some drape, I placed the broom cob around the collar.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAazks9HklzPcZWxoBbTOyZEhVJIxtXV-PVH3bF86XpuYLTdnulqNAb2aCqT0prNh1JCAhVkbbCVDUYfFmZk2zi6f6DpZf19I00bq_DmoggYisMsAPQzMD5Lj3rkp9gXgesECx_AM3gRwb/s1600/IMG_8137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAazks9HklzPcZWxoBbTOyZEhVJIxtXV-PVH3bF86XpuYLTdnulqNAb2aCqT0prNh1JCAhVkbbCVDUYfFmZk2zi6f6DpZf19I00bq_DmoggYisMsAPQzMD5Lj3rkp9gXgesECx_AM3gRwb/s640/IMG_8137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Done!  You can see the groupings of flowers look more appealing than if it were homogeneously arranged - it would look polk-a-dotted!<br /><br />To keep it fresh, keep it in the refrigerator (or in the garage, if your garage is really cold like mine!).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVLqKYCqNNNPsS_Mz4Ufucilc6FqHEZ_3FCi5C4XV3ulLbtbIr_ft7A6Yi_unwpZCF8B_0vmAnwmvclc1CsrDybIB0nKIWwZhomKh8-hda-AFQ0ENEkNAsF0lhky6nJihKzWCbJ_-1X4md/s1600/IMG_8139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVLqKYCqNNNPsS_Mz4Ufucilc6FqHEZ_3FCi5C4XV3ulLbtbIr_ft7A6Yi_unwpZCF8B_0vmAnwmvclc1CsrDybIB0nKIWwZhomKh8-hda-AFQ0ENEkNAsF0lhky6nJihKzWCbJ_-1X4md/s640/IMG_8139.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />Here it is on the table!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-6omHbOwBPJOSS60mXl05sv8SlY46Hejd-CuWF56Ay7nZcYdlIf2dKtx8aFoktaMQ4IW0hiLHgwKaQ3fri54Bj6ssfSTWe6u_1uMDgS6DDvjsNw7nyJzsRmUiVxBeeq76nzDdmTgDg8H/s1600/IMG_5999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-6omHbOwBPJOSS60mXl05sv8SlY46Hejd-CuWF56Ay7nZcYdlIf2dKtx8aFoktaMQ4IW0hiLHgwKaQ3fri54Bj6ssfSTWe6u_1uMDgS6DDvjsNw7nyJzsRmUiVxBeeq76nzDdmTgDg8H/s1600/IMG_5999.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> See more Thanksgiving inspired table settings, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/10/thanksgiving-collection-wheat-bundles.html">here</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd_6fhYsYQyU1CdnpBYCYq8y3aIXYLMuV9-wveF4oUef7vQW38He2texXaUNS-7okRbLP-AfMt27Xj6mT3oqpcZ6XAj3YEPOHPydMOAHsReJK8e0zSm2PvX6ohVi4M9XgUiV3BDFTC5Mt/s1600/IMG_5800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd_6fhYsYQyU1CdnpBYCYq8y3aIXYLMuV9-wveF4oUef7vQW38He2texXaUNS-7okRbLP-AfMt27Xj6mT3oqpcZ6XAj3YEPOHPydMOAHsReJK8e0zSm2PvX6ohVi4M9XgUiV3BDFTC5Mt/s1600/IMG_5800.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYH-5GAnDJ17ory-4vBlHhTq8ySBrL71ZIWZ-AKyC6qhbdiG3YsAfbXaY1qbp7pomkST-SEGHt8KtrYzxl17eMnVmAIl6Oks4g-vHiF1dmmw2kb5Ez1Z_d12GRSSnVS2LmJkDedfOvzqm/s1600/IMG_5854+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYH-5GAnDJ17ory-4vBlHhTq8ySBrL71ZIWZ-AKyC6qhbdiG3YsAfbXaY1qbp7pomkST-SEGHt8KtrYzxl17eMnVmAIl6Oks4g-vHiF1dmmw2kb5Ez1Z_d12GRSSnVS2LmJkDedfOvzqm/s1600/IMG_5854+2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

DIY Thanksgiving Centerpiece | Roses, Mums & Broom Cob in a Pumpkin "Vase"

I love traditional Thanksgiving - everything.  Traditional colors, a traditional menu, flowers, table setting, etc.  I'm not sure if creating a floral centerpiece in a pumpkin would be traditional in the eyes of generations past, but in the Martha Stewart era of holidays, it surely seems like a cla…

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