November completes the gradual journey into the depths of Autumn, bringing with it new scents, tastes and domestic adventures. The citrus fruits of summer are replaced with apples, light linens are tucked away to make room for heartier more tactile textiles, and the kitchen simmers with clove and nutmeg. November is the last furlong before we tuck ourselves in for a long winters rest. This November I will be….
Voting. Not quite the traditional all American voting, but voting none-the-less. This month I stepped outside my comfort zone and entered the Video tutorial on how to make baked french toast into the GMC Trade Secrets contest for a chance to film with Sam Talbot the celebrity chef. I would love your vote, and the good news is that you can vote up to 3 times a day (as if you have nothing else to do) and each vote enters you into a daily drawing for a $50 gift card. Cast your vote here.
Hosting Thanksgiving on 24 November. The baton has finally been handed down and this will be my first fully hosted Thanksgiving dinner in the US and I am making plans for it to be a show stopper, starting with these free printable place cards from Frog Prince Paperie. For a full peak at what my Thanksgiving tables will look like this year, pop over to Celebrations to download the printables and peak at my table decor (click here).
Spicing things up. Replace your spices, anything older than 6 months and you might as well be using saw dust. To keep your spices fragrant all season long, store them in an airtight, room temperate dark place (….that means, not on open shelf by the oven, but in your pantry).
Arranging fresh November Flowers: Truth be told, I have fallen in love with autumn leaves, not only do they have a longer vase life, they capture the heart of November so well, especially Maple branches. But if you are looking for vibrant November flowers, look for Cockscomb, Lisianthus, Sedum, Winterberries, Dahlias,Veronica and Yarrow.
Enjoying November produce: The fall harvest is in full swing and your green grocer will be bursting with a number of seasonal delights, including: Apples, Brussels Sprouts, Chicory, Cranberries, Kumquats, Leeks, Parsnips, Persimmons, Sweet Potatoes, and Watercress.
Writing my holiday cards. There I said it, the one thing we all loathe doing but love receiving. Time to get your stationary box out, review your address lists, think of horribly witty things to say and wish everyone a fabulous 2012. If you get them all done before Thanksgiving, the season just might be a tad more enjoyable and the lines at the post office less daunting.
Exploring Pinterest. Yes, what free time I did have is now being sucked into the ether of the magical site of Pinterest. I fear I may have to join pinners anonymous as I finally have a place to catalogue all kitchen living images, products and ideas that fill my head. Join me down the rabbit hole link.
Getting fresh with my mop for a pre-holiday deep clean. There is nothing worse than being unprepared for an unexpected guest or spending the 2 days before a house guest arrives cleaning your bathroom grout. Spend time in early November giving your home a deep clean to ensure you are prepared for any guest this Holiday Season. If you are looking for tips and inspiration, take a peak below:
- How to clean your silver
- Guide to deep cleaning your kitchen
- How to create the perfect guest room
- Deep cleaning check list
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2011 November is… | Housewife Bliss
Seasonal apples | Housewife Bliss