WINTER ENTERTAINING

What's warming in the oven?

Is that apple crisp I smell?

Winter can be rather charming and peaceful don't you think?

I love serving relaxed foods in the evening, 

such as butternut squash and apple soup, along

with  wooden serving board full of farmhouse cheddar and

crispy breadsticks....

I had gathered all of my Christmas decor into one place

and was ready to pack everything away until next season,

when I thought.....well, maybe I can use a few items

to reflect the months of January and February drawing

from our Maine days for inspiration!

So, I selected these waxed glittered trees to use as a centerpiece.

They cast a soft light in the evening which makes the farmhouse table

look cozy and beautiful.

I really love mixing gray and ivory together

for this time of year.

It's always a good idea to elevate your centerpiece a bit

and in this case, I chose to use the cake stand from Hearth and Hand.

These winter woodland guest towels will be perfect for guest napkins,

alongside the winter white Pioneer Woman plates

and the Williams- Sonoma snowman plates.

I also saved this little winter cottage which I purchased

on sale during the summer from Victorian Trading Company.

It seems a shame to only enjoy certain holiday decorations

for just a month or so, when you can extend your enjoyment

throughout winter......

The fireplace is now glowing and soon the party will begin....

there is a big pot of shrimp and crab gumbo simmering away....

Now, that's entertainment!