THANKSGIVING PUMPKIN CENTERPIECE

I like to re-use things if you haven't noticed- not in a weird hoarder, crazy cat lady kind of way, but more in a "I saw this idea on pinterest/Martha Stewart, and was like I can totally do that with something I already have" kind of way. This idea came from pinterest, 2 years ago, yeah - I was pinteresting before it was even cool... haha. (I literally overheard that exact statement at the grocery store a few weeks ago, I maybe rolled my eyes so hard they got stuck.) But, I digress- the moral of that story was I'd been filing that idea away so long and this Thanksgiving seemed like the perfect time to let it be free.

You'll Need:

A pumpkin

Flowers

A Vase/jar/container

Method:

Cut the top off of the pumpkin and leave yourself about an 8" diameter hole. Scoop out the insides. Place a small vase or plastic container inside the pumpkin to hold the water for the flowers. Arrange your flowers. 

The whole process ended up taking about 30 minutes. I think I'll end up going back to the floral shop and adding some olive branches and more hydrangea blooms closer to the holiday,for a soft green touch- but I like where it is going. 

PUMPKIN BLING

I have an addiction, unfortunately it's not really treatable, considering it involves painting everything gold. From picture frames, to trays, our house is littered with objects that fell pray to my Midas touch. I even think about what I can paint next. (a pile of pine cones in my office is just screaming for a holiday makeover.) This time it was pumpkins. I wanted to add a little glam to our Thanksgiving table, right now the plan is to head toward a bit of a rustic glamour- but it's all still coming together in my head, and I know it actually wont materialize until moments before the meal.

But not all is lost if we bag the gold pumpkins because I think they make the perfect pre-thanksgiving accessory. I've never been the kind to decorate for Christmas before December begins, so these will hold me over quite nicely until I can get my glittery hands on the pine cone pile. I just wish I painted them sooner. Do you have any DIY addictions?

INDEPENDENCE DAY ENTERTAINING

The 4th is nearing, so to start off this lovely week I thought I’d share some tips on hosting the best eco-conscious backyard BBQ - patriotic style.

Invites: e-vites and digital invitations are the best way to go- no paper. If you want it to be more personal then create one handmade invitation and scan it, or if you have the skills use a computer program to create a one-of-a-kind invite.

Dinnerware: Each year Americans toss out enough paper and plastic cups, forks, and spoons to circle the equator 300 times, (that's a lot of times) so do the earth a favor and use recycled dinnerware, or something that you can re-use. Recycline makes recycled, tough dinnerware with a casual look. Perfect for a back-yard soiree, and its intended to be reused.

Linens: If you don't already have linens, the best place to find an eco friendly version is at a thrift store or antique shop. Even a large white bed sheet can cover the table in a pinch. Bandanas, or fabric remnants make great placemats,  or tie them with some twine for napkins- and they can be used afterward. If you are short on tables and chairs- picnic blankets spread out on the lawn make a great "kid's table" or offer a more casual dining experience.

Centerpieces/Decor: The best summer centerpieces can be found in your own backyard (or flower shop) wild flowers in glass jars make a beautiful focal points. Or let the food do the work for you- vintage dishes filled with blueberries or cherries would make great table decor. I saw the idea below on Pinterest, and I bow to the genius who thought of stenciling their lawn with household flour!

Food: If you don't plan on tossing a few garden burgers on the grill, fruit offers a great vegetarian and vegan friendly option for guests. I like the idea of the fruit kabobs below. They are festive and healthy!