Last year, as in most years, I decorated the house for Halloween. This year, a fresh pumpkin sits on the front steps and nothing else!! No time to crawl through the attic and drag out decorations this year. Stacks of household chores to do to get life back to some semblance of order after being away so long.
Above - Front porch 2007
The outdoor French markets were displaying many wonderful Autumn foods. The chestnuts are popular as French cooks use them in both savory and sweet dishes, chopped and creamed. At a village Pumpkin Fete we enjoyed music from the local band. Children rode ponies, giant pumpkins were judged for weight, and the local people met friends for coffee and French versions of 'fair foods' such as we see here at State Fairs at this time of year. Well, no huge turkey legs being hefted - rather delicacies such as fougasse and roasted chestnuts. The warm air was full of festivity and I was certain the wine would start flowing as the day progressed
French squash and pumpkins are quite different from the bright orange, smooth skinned ones we are used to here. Very beautiful to look at............and to eat.
Oops, must run, still have to buy candy for the Trick or Treaters tomorrow evening - that part of Halloween cannot be missed no matter how busy we are. Perhaps I'll even make time to whip up some pumpkin bread too!
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Mary, that is just so beautiful! I love those French squash (Chayotes)! They're very popular in Brazil too. I always make them for little Luna and she loves it! Don't worry about the Halloween decor for this year, just last night we carved our pumpkin out! And just like you, that was the only thing that I put in front of my home. I'm sure it still looks pretty in your Cottage front porch. Miss you! Hugs, Vanessa
ReplyDeleteWelcome back, Lady!! I know you had a glorious time and hope you'll continue to fill us in with lots of French stories and pix. :D
ReplyDeleteHi Mary
ReplyDeleteI can just imagine how wonderful your porch looks dressed and ready for trick or treaters :-)
Wonderful market photos - I love chestnuts.
Wonderful post, Mary.
ReplyDeleteWe just arrived home from Big Cedar today. We met a tiny penguin at the punkin patch, this afternoon. Haven't had time to get the treats ready, but I do have my witchy hat all done up and waiting on a chair in the foyer.
Good to see you back! Missed you!
At least you have your pictures to look at from last year. . . and there is always next year to decorate again. . . but a trip abroad is worth no decorating for fall if you ask me :)
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Sher
Ah, the chestnuts...I must find some! This time of year, it's chestnuts and pomegranates for me! The pumpkins are quite different, aren't they? ...and the squash - I've never seen anything like them.
ReplyDeleteWe're leaving for Florida this coming Tuesday - hope to see you when we return!
Hugs,
Deborah
Those pumpkins are just what I was looking for for my porch/stoop. The red ones were hard to find this year and when I did finally find some they were $.99/pound. A bit rich for my blood. There is always next year.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Edward and I welcome you home! We look forward to all the pictures and all the stories! I am sure you have made wonderful memories for yourself!
ReplyDeleteThe French produce is so beautiful!
ReplyDeleteIt takes a while to get back up to speed after being gone for a month. Imagine what it would be like if you traveled for a year!
ReplyDeleteAutumn is a magical season all around the world. Celebrations of different occasions abound, and they are filled with fellowship, food and fun.
ReplyDeleteMary:
ReplyDeleteIt is great to have you back again. Every picture you post shows what a good time you had. Have fun with the trick or treaters. Ours was last Sunday. Tomorrow all the witch things will go back in the attic.
Nancy
Beautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteWe do not expect any trick or treaters again this year, and live vicariously through other's events!
Mind you, as a retired teacher I did my fair share of events!
Your porch looked amazing last year Mary! You can perhaps just go with some autumn decorations until it is time to switch to winter and Christmas. Hope you are not suffering from jetlag?
ReplyDeleteHugs ~
Heidi
What a wonderful blog site. Very enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteI just discovered your blog. Lovely pictures. I'll be back
ReplyDelete