I always jump the gun on fall…which is particularly defeatist since Southern California typically doesn’t see truly cool (a relative term) weather ever until late October or early November. Still, it’s my favorite season {with spring a close second} and I can hardly wait.
The acorns and sycamore leaves were gathered on my walk that first weekend in September
When our Austin family visited earlier this month, I found myself decorating the dining room table for fall. We have several September birthdays in the family and since September always reminds me that fall is close at hand, I thought why not?! Besides, we had the a/c running so you could pretend it was cool outside. :-)
I saved the oak leaves from a visit to Big Bear and wrote the name of each guest on a leaf to use as place cards.
Redfern the pheasant is in his usual spot for the fall season.
There were lively conversations among the guests…Olivia (4 years) & Fae (1 year next month) {granddaughters}
I’ve dropped the ball where entertaining / cooking posts are concerned. So in addition to the table setting, I’ve included the menu items I served for our birthday celebration {in the season of almost autumn}. :-)
Our dinner menu was very simple and due to the heat, instead of birthday cake I created an ice cream bar with a variety of flavors and toppings for each guest to create their own sundae.
Menu
assorted appetizers
Costco’s Bill Baily’s Santa Maria Tri Tip [Mr. B. grilled] served with Chimichurri Sauce
Crispy English Potatoes from Barefoot Contessa/Foolproof book
grilled green beans
Happy Birthday Sundaes
The Costco tri tip is pre-seasoned and can be grilled or roasted in the oven. The fresh herbs and bright lemon flavor of the Chimichurri sauce were a hit. I prepared Crispy English Potatoes from Ina Garten’s Foolproof Cookbook and you can prepare them earlier in the day and reheat when ready to serve. Mr. B. grilled the green beans on the grill using a veggie basket. Son #1 assisted since his signature seasonings for the beans are a family favorite.
I will add some pumpkins and mums during the later part of the month…
spruce up my autumn wreath for the front door, borrowing inspiration from creative people such as Studio Choo…
and give some thought to a dinner for sometime in October…which will be here before we know it.
Happy Autumn to you all! Are you decorated for the season, please tell me I’m not the only one overly eager for the season.
