Preparing for the Gathering

Anytime there is something to celebrate, my house is usually the place where we all gather together.  Thanksgiving is one of those times and I adore being surrounded by family and friends.

Norman Rockwell

  

I know that Thanksgiving will be right on top of me before I know it.  Over the years I've learned to do as much as I possibly can ahead of time to take some of the stress away and allow me to enjoy being with everyone.  I even go so far as to label my serving pieces with post-it notes.  Ms. JB (my daughter) just rolls her eyes at me!

 Martha Stewart


In the last couple of years I've started setting the table two or three days ahead of time. While I'm in the process I invariably think of something that I wish I had done - make a tablerunner, make/buy napkins, placemats and on and on and on - but by then I don't have time to do anything extra.

my table last Thanksgiving
 
    My table setting has improved over time, but it still isn't where I'd like it to be.  I want to do a better job of planning and preparing ahead this year, so I'm looking for some inspiration.  What better place to look than two blogs that are near and dear to so many of us?

Both of the ladies that we're going to visit are well known for their lush tablescapes.  I always marvel at their imagination and creativity.  They are experts at layering and combining elements to create the perfect atmosphere.  No detail is overlooked!

Our first visit is with Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.  In addition to creating her own gorgeous tablescapes, Susan hosts a linky party every week called Tablescape Thursday.  Lots of inspiration and eye candy all in one spot!

The weather is still quite warm during the day in Geogia.  But with cooler evening temps, Susan is all set to welcome us onto her lovely porch with some yummy hot apple cider or hot chocolate. 

Now, I'm just sure that there's some nice warm chili waiting for us in these cute little pots!

Thanksgiving is finally here.  I just know we're going to enjoy a cozy, intimate dinner at this elegant table.

Now let's travel farther north to visit Yvonne at StoneGable.  In addition to creating beautiful tablescapes, Yvonne hosts a weekly menu party called On the Menu Monday.  I promise your mouth will water just reading what is on her menu every week.

The weather is just perfect in Pennsylvania for a leisurely walk where we can collect the most wonderful items to create a woodland tablescape.

After spending the morning raking leaves, I'm ready for some hearty Beef Barley Soup for lunch.

At long last, the harvest has been completed.  I'm ready to celebrate and give thanks with everyone who is dear to me at a cozy, inviting table.

These tablescapes are just a very small sampling of all of the goodness and inspiration you will find at Between Naps on the Porch and StoneGable.  You'll be treated to home decor, tutorials and all sorts of other features.  If you aren't familiar with them already, I urge you to head on over and introduce yourself to these talented and so gracious ladies.

Thank you so much Susan and Yvonne.  Not only for allowing me to feature your lovely tablescapes, but also for the beauty and inspiration you bring into my world with every blog post that you publish!