Autumn Splendor

 Ahhh...the splendor of Autumn with it's cool temperatures, colored leaves, and of course...

 pumpkins!

I love fall!

It's a time to relax and enjoy family and friends.

As you all know, I also love to decorate:).

Fall decorating doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Adding colorful leaves or sparkly fruits to vignettes brings the glory of autumn inside.

Sprigs of leaves, red and gold flowers and faux fruits can be purchased for a minimal cost at thirft shops and discount stores.

 The best part is that you can reuse them from year to year:).

 Silk flowers and faux berries add a natural feel to a room and last for months:).

 Pinecones are found in abundance at this time of year.

A little gold paint and they sparkle like jewels.

 Speaking of jewels...

don't forget to look in the jewelry box for autumn colored brooches that make a great fall display when grouped together in your favorite crystal bowl or just resting on a vintage doily.

 Shopping year round can land some great deals for off-season decor.

This pumpkin basket was a great find for only .50 cents.

 Nestle orangy pumpkins amongst greenery throughout the house.

Candles bring warmth and the fragrance of cider, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie to fall.

There's something cozy about the warm glow of candlelight on a crisp fall evening. 

  As whimsical Jack-o-lanterns begin to appear,

 and summer's hazy days fade to autumn shadows,

we hang corn in hues of burgundy, gold, and brown as a sign of autumn welcome.

 So fix a fruity fall punch...

 and a hearty pot of ham and potato soup

and enjoy the harvest of beauty and splendor that this season brings!

 Happy Fall!

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Autumn Porch Punch

In a pitcher mix:

One part Malibu coconut rum with three parts orange juice

Add one can each of  peaches and manderin oranges

Add 1/2 cup of marishino cherries

Mix well and pour over ice with fruit to garnish.

This same punch is just as good without the rum if you prefer a non-alcoholic drink:).

Hearty  Ham and Potato Soup

5 medium potatoes chopped

8 ounces of lean ham chopped

1/2 medium white onion chopped

3 green onions chopped

1/2 stick of butter

One quart of Buttermilk

1 1/2 cups of water

1 package of onion soup mix

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 package instant mashed potato mix

Salt and pepper to taste

In soup pot melt butter and saute potatoes, ham, and onions for about 5 minutes. Turn heat down to medium. Add buttermilk, water, soup mix, and green onions. Mix well. Bring to a low boil and add cheese, potato mix, and salt and pepper. Mix until everything is creamy and slightly boiling. Turn heat down to medium low and cook for about 30 minutes.