Although supposedly Fall is in the air, we still have many days of high 70’s and even 80’s. And our Thanksgiving Holiday is fast approaching. To help put you in the mood, you might want to read and check out some of our holiday decorating books in the Library. One very stylish book is entitled Decorating with Wreaths, Garlands, Topiaries and Bouquets as assembled by Carol Endler Sterbenz with photography by Steven Mays. Glancing through the autumnal section, one sees a number of garlands and topiaries that can be assembled. However, studying the pictures carefully, I would suggest that these ideas not be attempted by a decorating amateur, but one who is very talented and proficient.

However, The New Captured Harvest by Terence Moore has pages of instructions and the varying techniques necessary to create the many swags and table decorations pictures – even one using artichoke hearts for the bottom of a candle holder. Photographs are stunning and there are detailed instructions that don’t appear to be that difficult.

Opening Wreaths and Garlands by Malcolm Hillier, the page showing the “hot chili bonanza” wreath popped up. A detailed listing of necessary items to form this wreath is listed along with an easy to follow set of instructions. The wreath is stunning with the pictures of the various chilies to be arranged are extremely colorful. It really looks like something that a total klutz like me could attempt.

And, perhaps saving the best for last, are two seasonal books from the collection of Better Homes & Gardens entitled Celebrate the Season 2002 and 2006. Although these books primarily emphasize the Christmas Holidays, there are sections concerning Thanksgiving, and Hanukkah with many recipes and menus, delightful and sparkling decorations and even specially designed stockings to decorate your mantle. Easy to read; excellent instructions; and two just plain fun books to read.

But if you’re looking for a book to curl up in your rocker in front of the fire (wishful thinking here), and phase out for a while, check out Fern Michaels’ No Place Like Home or Leslie Meier’s, Turkey Day Murder. Ms. Michael’s book is a love story featuring a set of triplets who wants to get their widowed father into another relationship and return their special grandmother to their home from a nursing facility. And Ms. Meier’s book features a Turkey Day menu replete with instructions too.

We have a number of books, both hard cover and soft cover, available for sale at the prices of $1.00 for hardcover and $0.25 for the soft. They make excellent companions when you go on a trip and don’t want to worry about a due date from our Library. Do come and check them out! You won’t be disappointed.

“When an old person dies, a Library burns down”
Karin Gillespie