"The Perfect Autumn Centerpiece"

This is my favorite time of year... splendidly beautiful autumn. I can already feel the delicious crispness in the air, a sure sign that it's time, once again, to put flannel sheets back on the beds, and cozy sweater throws on the furniture. I've begun tearing out hearty fall recipes from magazines, and thinking of a new centerpiece for my dining room table that will take me right into Thanksgiving.

My good friend, Mary, told me of this great idea she saw for pumpkin candleholders. I am going to make a pumpkin "village" for my centerpiece using the white variety because it's more decor friendly. Start with an assortment of about 3 medium to small sized white pumpkins with stems. Next, cut open the top and remove the innards. Make sure that the inside bottom is nice and flat so that a candle can be placed inside without tipping over. With a precision carving tool, (available at craft stores) cut out a front door and two windows. (It helps if you draw them on before you cut.) You can add a lot of visual interest by carving the windows with windowpanes. This takes a bit more patience, but will really look great with soft glowing candlelight flickering through. Place a votive candle in each little "cottage," and replace the stemmed top for a roof. Place them on a bed of autumn colored leaves in the center of your table. I recommend using artificial leaves which you can purchase at craft stores. They are reusable, and much less messy. Place a potted fall Mum on either side of your little village. I will be using white to match the pumpkins, but you may use any color you choose. There you have it...the perfect fall centerpiece. Enjoy!