Our Pumpkin Carving Party + Braised Beef Chili

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCWkdN83eLipZ34weqYM0qz51JjSKb23d-BgBrplmoeMNCypkKsv1SGD0apt4Tipsw6GTrL0ZC4upIXCuCLHNDFYw9QDgx7-ubADf-pyJh1Ki2QbSiyRcDK4ygGDgVzleSY7SiLbFWcV7/s1600/IMG_2821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCWkdN83eLipZ34weqYM0qz51JjSKb23d-BgBrplmoeMNCypkKsv1SGD0apt4Tipsw6GTrL0ZC4upIXCuCLHNDFYw9QDgx7-ubADf-pyJh1Ki2QbSiyRcDK4ygGDgVzleSY7SiLbFWcV7/s1600/IMG_2821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcCgnarDWuG1td88qfNNaEyTG7EoXG9U8OCL-qXHL1LqaeOLcCt-j_TU0YQ-o5NqMjgQIVzrDaDZCoiVvipkEKFGcOK_28ZSJMFmt5b2YER3jTBheQpF0YWwurKmxc0ZAETQ2aMCUhAJTT/s1600/IMG_2967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcCgnarDWuG1td88qfNNaEyTG7EoXG9U8OCL-qXHL1LqaeOLcCt-j_TU0YQ-o5NqMjgQIVzrDaDZCoiVvipkEKFGcOK_28ZSJMFmt5b2YER3jTBheQpF0YWwurKmxc0ZAETQ2aMCUhAJTT/s1600/IMG_2967.jpg" width="425" /></a>Last Friday we hosted some new neighborhood friends for Pumpkin Carving.  Of course, I forgot to take too many photos - which is usually the case.  I feel like if I'm running around with my camera too much people will feel like their at a blog photo shoot instead of a party.  I did manage to take some "before" party pictures, a couple of Emma carving and some after of her enjoying a second helping of mini s'mores (above)... right before bed.  <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Four-pumpkin-carving-party-braised-beef.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4kasfyWJ7KA%2FUm6mBhxynoI%2FAAAAAAAAUaQ%2F1G20vd3Bgm8%2Fs1600%2Fbeef-chili.jpg&description=Braised%20Beef%20Chili%20-%20So%20easy%2C%20with%20great%20texture%20from%20the%20slow%20simmered%20beef.%20%20Crockpot%20would%20be%20great%20for%20this!"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br />I kept the menu really simple - classic fall and kid friendly :<br /><br />- Baked Squash & Goat Cheese Dip with Pita<br />- Antipasto Platter of Salami, Cheese & Olives (Emma's favorites)<br />- Bowls of Goldfish & Pretzels<br />- Chili (slow braised beef chili, recipe below)<br />- Mac and Cheese for the Kids<br /><br />Everyone loved this chili.  It is the same recipe I used last year for the Beef & Butternut Chili, but I left out the Butternut and added beans to make it a more traditional chili.  I slow braised stew meat along with ground beef to give it a very meaty and hearty texture.  <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Four-pumpkin-carving-party-braised-beef.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4kasfyWJ7KA%2FUm6mBhxynoI%2FAAAAAAAAUaQ%2F1G20vd3Bgm8%2Fs1600%2Fbeef-chili.jpg&description=Braised%20Beef%20Chili%20-%20So%20easy%2C%20with%20great%20texture%20from%20the%20slow%20simmered%20beef.%20%20Crockpot%20would%20be%20great%20for%20this!"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGBP5lRN_O3-Rrw2qsE5ICeAS0brzEhniuy8imIjTzKw38jF9f_9ve5BoP84jZf53yrQ2RG1wHXjJ0-ItRcLA5nFrgdQZAu7-cYhyphenhyphenEMojCpcSNon05hKAeqFBuahquWue47GN1zwp5-JQ/s1600/IMG_2800.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGBP5lRN_O3-Rrw2qsE5ICeAS0brzEhniuy8imIjTzKw38jF9f_9ve5BoP84jZf53yrQ2RG1wHXjJ0-ItRcLA5nFrgdQZAu7-cYhyphenhyphenEMojCpcSNon05hKAeqFBuahquWue47GN1zwp5-JQ/s1600/IMG_2800.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Emma and I made Jack-O-Lantern sugar cookies the morning of the party and sent the leftovers home with everyone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99uPuwHi6eoZ9GR9cgaB-v-1Y_rO1cHeY9HHz8LWbccv63u7y2QRsVPq3-UMlalevjeLeceP_bAL303cxeT9VBTd1CWcXHahxypheX1VixkE7QonkUs1M9q27K8pojlSCN1S3SADLr3Ph/s1600/IMG_2802.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99uPuwHi6eoZ9GR9cgaB-v-1Y_rO1cHeY9HHz8LWbccv63u7y2QRsVPq3-UMlalevjeLeceP_bAL303cxeT9VBTd1CWcXHahxypheX1VixkE7QonkUs1M9q27K8pojlSCN1S3SADLr3Ph/s1600/IMG_2802.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are Emma's - she loves using the pastry bags to squirt on the icing.  As I was discussing with the Moms at the party, icing "art" is easier to clean up than paint... and I don't have to worry about her eating the icing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgX_zwNkEFQoQdqiGrS5-xJW6Pe_PDzbxYERWnlB_-NXgXfCJ-iH0rWBS34YbHKS5DdR6A5fBBgPNKTBBQ12XdZZwp3pjlvyRz4kPN74BrBySV1yFpj_MzqgCBNMqL_EANG166BlyqFm7/s1600/IMG_2808.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgX_zwNkEFQoQdqiGrS5-xJW6Pe_PDzbxYERWnlB_-NXgXfCJ-iH0rWBS34YbHKS5DdR6A5fBBgPNKTBBQ12XdZZwp3pjlvyRz4kPN74BrBySV1yFpj_MzqgCBNMqL_EANG166BlyqFm7/s1600/IMG_2808.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is our display set on the dining room table.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiPjMCMdQcwMw6B1HIKQwvQgKuzJdiZJkXbQnrWEzMHNzVNnEu3koSMsSXIEDF33sEHLtjfJhPU5y_Ir6mAWDi-0i9y5u1mRHMYxGepSRIjSJbDqTujyHycp8QioE6w3pGtTWhjw8JRPt/s1600/IMG_2809.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiPjMCMdQcwMw6B1HIKQwvQgKuzJdiZJkXbQnrWEzMHNzVNnEu3koSMsSXIEDF33sEHLtjfJhPU5y_Ir6mAWDi-0i9y5u1mRHMYxGepSRIjSJbDqTujyHycp8QioE6w3pGtTWhjw8JRPt/s1600/IMG_2809.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I covered the table with kraft paper (the same I use to package my store goodies).  I love having that giant roll of kraft paper to use - it is lighter weight than craft stores carry which makes it easier to tape for wrapping packages, too.  I'm thinking of carrying it in my store for the holidays... would you all be interested in having a giant roll of kraft paper?!  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBpj0sGTcAYIxNcRzpEsP0gEtgYbJINIM8xQQJYQD4vwWXBchCyTdV0kYoAknaV7ZuOYDyxQ38ezma6xKQnOnk6FboF-RLMxRKET7DwJL1O3rjZRQnmRhJYmqyTrai_L1EKmqcFmZK4LC/s1600/IMG_2812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBpj0sGTcAYIxNcRzpEsP0gEtgYbJINIM8xQQJYQD4vwWXBchCyTdV0kYoAknaV7ZuOYDyxQ38ezma6xKQnOnk6FboF-RLMxRKET7DwJL1O3rjZRQnmRhJYmqyTrai_L1EKmqcFmZK4LC/s1600/IMG_2812.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Let the carving begin!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAliU75L66u8xUIVDb-A9pVxVjd8mND0efOzN4gL4x-rgUOuDw9yTld2yaTGCQiWrjWnwDvuPcr8K1TT2x4MBGJSMMMPA06rjXiA2d4wt47kilWmZAlAR898qSzH5kZ3SunYFrcy9eHqDm/s1600/IMG_2814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAliU75L66u8xUIVDb-A9pVxVjd8mND0efOzN4gL4x-rgUOuDw9yTld2yaTGCQiWrjWnwDvuPcr8K1TT2x4MBGJSMMMPA06rjXiA2d4wt47kilWmZAlAR898qSzH5kZ3SunYFrcy9eHqDm/s1600/IMG_2814.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Emma took it very seriously - she wanted to get out all of the "punkin seeds."  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnY1OIJ_zPNL7sJM8NuGSmRifOcLc7JNv9YYrq1H52NXuLzv9n2BTRM8zgxUVlVn6UKpX17n0Iw0NcUZprSYOQrRGRph-M_TUueuytArb5mpHXPid4kskcyTJtlKtrgEqNQPr-Ih_4wROX/s1600/mini-smores.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnY1OIJ_zPNL7sJM8NuGSmRifOcLc7JNv9YYrq1H52NXuLzv9n2BTRM8zgxUVlVn6UKpX17n0Iw0NcUZprSYOQrRGRph-M_TUueuytArb5mpHXPid4kskcyTJtlKtrgEqNQPr-Ih_4wROX/s1600/mini-smores.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />I passed around my Mini S'mores for dessert - just the right size for the kiddos. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M9f7dXTUeW6eZGTAXfUA9WKyLVQqNxYCYWrCOuHgIqH-sF9fyTA5mxLrEZ5SfaFaZMsZh_dOomNL7MDWkzpE0mhrd7MNhFOcLMP41UHBK1MwPpgbVPHlgsiXgVMF656ZvynOJqoOUMRa/s1600/IMG_2815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M9f7dXTUeW6eZGTAXfUA9WKyLVQqNxYCYWrCOuHgIqH-sF9fyTA5mxLrEZ5SfaFaZMsZh_dOomNL7MDWkzpE0mhrd7MNhFOcLMP41UHBK1MwPpgbVPHlgsiXgVMF656ZvynOJqoOUMRa/s1600/IMG_2815.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Big hit with Emma. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRd1bO3QcNWYjjGgswgYw7d7i09M9b9FUt2szBrMwx8yq4wXOPQfY5znIsvK2Frv2WZ-CcuEkOcBKlhFx6V8voUvFPK9w4rrQW5C5tpJAUchpdVSnGQrtvPhMHfyZi2DShpvj30YUX3jG/s1600/IMG_2827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRd1bO3QcNWYjjGgswgYw7d7i09M9b9FUt2szBrMwx8yq4wXOPQfY5znIsvK2Frv2WZ-CcuEkOcBKlhFx6V8voUvFPK9w4rrQW5C5tpJAUchpdVSnGQrtvPhMHfyZi2DShpvj30YUX3jG/s1600/IMG_2827.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />After everyone left, Emma worked on moving her punkin outside.  Little, by little.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TFIPR70d6U_0tkYVdFPCJIQy6t7LxHZfnp4hCraA_IVw4eEyM0Fukq-4a2fWe_Wy534pXEvxiY4X4k-RqJo8z6SJLv6GO5af-WRNCeDXG0ZLhNjUcwvTmaa2OIwMqT3ddbvlIJ7sDWJz/s1600/IMG_2828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TFIPR70d6U_0tkYVdFPCJIQy6t7LxHZfnp4hCraA_IVw4eEyM0Fukq-4a2fWe_Wy534pXEvxiY4X4k-RqJo8z6SJLv6GO5af-WRNCeDXG0ZLhNjUcwvTmaa2OIwMqT3ddbvlIJ7sDWJz/s1600/IMG_2828.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Four-pumpkin-carving-party-braised-beef.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4kasfyWJ7KA%2FUm6mBhxynoI%2FAAAAAAAAUaQ%2F1G20vd3Bgm8%2Fs1600%2Fbeef-chili.jpg&description=Braised%20Beef%20Chili%20-%20So%20easy%2C%20with%20great%20texture%20from%20the%20slow%20simmered%20beef.%20%20Crockpot%20would%20be%20great%20for%20this!"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><br /><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Uh oh, she found more seeds... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KhR7jxiRVl0FHas5Yicmm-jqPIQE5oSbZhPK_q8Sb0vozbCC-dMe1j_MKjnFrhcdBHwtCTjsA9Y85vsBIVq3GKsHFf3uSc6SKEm2LCNzrcvo3z88vfrfzUNuNa691cxMYgR7flFZNZXx/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KhR7jxiRVl0FHas5Yicmm-jqPIQE5oSbZhPK_q8Sb0vozbCC-dMe1j_MKjnFrhcdBHwtCTjsA9Y85vsBIVq3GKsHFf3uSc6SKEm2LCNzrcvo3z88vfrfzUNuNa691cxMYgR7flFZNZXx/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The next night we took the pumpkins out to light and when we went back inside she asked Mike to go "make the punkins smile again."   So sweet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwicY9VI5fTkOT4dwz8zv5bNYn2ImtmriRvOMCvdTO1Rn0JAs3YY0Y8Zw7HD7DXd866caSZCZuQ6EIxd5nuUCzVRXYsemRiObQg2sobqY76H3S6sKCvqNjmmGGF4ZCuabNH-iEE_EGPRWv/s1600/IMG_2862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwicY9VI5fTkOT4dwz8zv5bNYn2ImtmriRvOMCvdTO1Rn0JAs3YY0Y8Zw7HD7DXd866caSZCZuQ6EIxd5nuUCzVRXYsemRiObQg2sobqY76H3S6sKCvqNjmmGGF4ZCuabNH-iEE_EGPRWv/s1600/IMG_2862.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWePwMxK4uJJGnZKTDwxN-v1bkzRHBsS8akLOVry6qbw6PQ3FgSfObrMyuNFZk1qVKFNsPJhpN43NWPGryrpO0KB829xd-VuZGCdQJasegUBtOM9PjyMpxBvi7huFxVGKoQSJWNV5qZv5s/s1600/beef-chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWePwMxK4uJJGnZKTDwxN-v1bkzRHBsS8akLOVry6qbw6PQ3FgSfObrMyuNFZk1qVKFNsPJhpN43NWPGryrpO0KB829xd-VuZGCdQJasegUBtOM9PjyMpxBvi7huFxVGKoQSJWNV5qZv5s/s1600/beef-chili.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Braised Beef</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Chili</i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Four-pumpkin-carving-party-braised-beef.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4kasfyWJ7KA%2FUm6mBhxynoI%2FAAAAAAAAUaQ%2F1G20vd3Bgm8%2Fs1600%2Fbeef-chili.jpg&description=Braised%20Beef%20Chili%20-%20So%20easy%2C%20with%20great%20texture%20from%20the%20slow%20simmered%20beef.%20%20Crockpot%20would%20be%20great%20for%20this!"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><br /><br />serves 10 <br /><br />2 tablespoons of oil<br />3 pounds beef stew meat, 1-inch cubes<br />2 pounds of ground beef<br />2 cups chopped yellow onions<br />6 large garlic cloves, minced<br />2 tablespoons chili powder<br />1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, crushed<br />2 tablespoons ground cumin<br />2 cups of beef broth<br />2 - 28 oz. cans of diced tomatoes with juice<br />sea salt and cracked pepper<br /><br />Heat the oil in a very large pot and quickly brown the meat, in batches, on all sides. Transfer the stew meat to a separate bowl and set aside.  Brown ground beef in the same pot.  Add the onion and cook about 8 to 10 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, pepper flakes and cumin and saute for 1 minute.   Add beef broth, tomatoes with their juice and the reserved stew meat. Reduce the heat, taste for seasoning.  Season with salt and pepper as needed.  Cover the pot with a tight fitting lid and simmer for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with salt, to taste.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceEqdL_l048IrdtcrLVuWEtuCdsy6oPtZOLhqzxdb2Wsguv7XPFkfRRI4NupRcrZf1IHtWyUNG6QzR6TIGhr7qvEhyphenhyphenxaPD50Pf7H3IFncPBxHLn8uK9EZDR8HOG7ta02g2Y-FONFENzYr/s1600/IMG_2797.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceEqdL_l048IrdtcrLVuWEtuCdsy6oPtZOLhqzxdb2Wsguv7XPFkfRRI4NupRcrZf1IHtWyUNG6QzR6TIGhr7qvEhyphenhyphenxaPD50Pf7H3IFncPBxHLn8uK9EZDR8HOG7ta02g2Y-FONFENzYr/s1600/IMG_2797.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Here is the browned stew meat - as you can see I didn't do too good of a job getting it nice and brown with good color... still was great.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl1jC6mek8TYjNgyJT_scoKMsZvdTuDgYvH8BaLaEfJK7qy3KjauJo6ErwVJVNzR2jizL1iA_OyLpGS5Kv8JGZkKlNgJrYi_mM4ETpq8WTAVl4Ta11IQfT24d1LEdBR_pdPH3AuZlSVNh/s1600/IMG_2799.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl1jC6mek8TYjNgyJT_scoKMsZvdTuDgYvH8BaLaEfJK7qy3KjauJo6ErwVJVNzR2jizL1iA_OyLpGS5Kv8JGZkKlNgJrYi_mM4ETpq8WTAVl4Ta11IQfT24d1LEdBR_pdPH3AuZlSVNh/s1600/IMG_2799.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />I did the onions in the same pan and they picked up all that great beefy flavor. <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uMid2Qer05xowxNslyOpCANOkAfxM76Xf3jG3g6TdrQoV0_Kp4VCAI_4urVU53BTgSjRKwvPa0z1pOyo7U9ynWkrKk3tnrhLondhBf4X1DDuDI7CLzTSsp28baV6Qq0XgTAjw64UNN9g/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uMid2Qer05xowxNslyOpCANOkAfxM76Xf3jG3g6TdrQoV0_Kp4VCAI_4urVU53BTgSjRKwvPa0z1pOyo7U9ynWkrKk3tnrhLondhBf4X1DDuDI7CLzTSsp28baV6Qq0XgTAjw64UNN9g/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />I love the texture this chili has - the chunks of beef are so tender after the slow braising.<br /><br />....<br /><br />I feel like Fall is flying by and I'm anxious to squeeze every moment out we can.  We plan on lots of walks outside this week to gather leaves and more Halloween treat making for friends.  I'll share Emma's homemade costume tomorrow, so stay tuned!  I hope you have a great Halloween week!<br /><br />

Our Pumpkin Carving Party + Braised Beef Chili

Last Friday we hosted some new neighborhood friends for Pumpkin Carving.  Of course, I forgot to take too many photos - which is usually the...

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Emma at the Pumpkin Patch & Our "Fallized" Front Steps & Window Box

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJ2inxslcFIjyRMaWeHELFcjodZK1O8NNmMsGwrJmMf21kqhCz7IrRIgio8rmvflX63d94cYAl9uV7Lv2Usu76eDlDhTqZ_Z_JNk3ZffD6lAQQ7ZOahAn8iVjyipJbdRzK7JHPwxB-TCN/s1600/IMG_9940.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJ2inxslcFIjyRMaWeHELFcjodZK1O8NNmMsGwrJmMf21kqhCz7IrRIgio8rmvflX63d94cYAl9uV7Lv2Usu76eDlDhTqZ_Z_JNk3ZffD6lAQQ7ZOahAn8iVjyipJbdRzK7JHPwxB-TCN/s640/IMG_9940.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> When we first bought our house, one of the first things I was looking forward to was decorating the front steps for Fall.  I had a vision for filling the flower box with heirloom pumpkins.  After I put two pumpkins in, and was on my way with a 20-pounder, I thought... hum... this might not be a great idea.  So, I switched it up and put flowers in the flower box (plus some kale) and pumpkins in the urns.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxVCJwYBvgFpiFOFxfkXgn7_AfxEnJyxGolwDe7csOAc6AuTKWIVuXZCuVNsl_pLDX0x0RqPWgIG24lIr7uK4bIV1U_nx_7hdWp7mE9J9br4AwguG494dDXL7XmE7He_P8adR9ojlI0YH/s1600/IMG_9653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxVCJwYBvgFpiFOFxfkXgn7_AfxEnJyxGolwDe7csOAc6AuTKWIVuXZCuVNsl_pLDX0x0RqPWgIG24lIr7uK4bIV1U_nx_7hdWp7mE9J9br4AwguG494dDXL7XmE7He_P8adR9ojlI0YH/s640/IMG_9653.jpg" width="553" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Last weekend we took Emma to the pumpkin patch - she says, "Yeah! Heirloom Pumpkins!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKapn0j0Z0UPuZ33Gdf2Io-ykm7_YQSzEJr3WqsQDnM0unQOvFpv9wkz5HsjMJC7t_LcW77kpkN6V3hOyYQtGhVlvuhd2m9pMxPD1k92dVFyuclQgxCZ5bAfU9IpkagHWiA_91O1t5I2y/s1600/IMG_9918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKapn0j0Z0UPuZ33Gdf2Io-ykm7_YQSzEJr3WqsQDnM0unQOvFpv9wkz5HsjMJC7t_LcW77kpkN6V3hOyYQtGhVlvuhd2m9pMxPD1k92dVFyuclQgxCZ5bAfU9IpkagHWiA_91O1t5I2y/s640/IMG_9918.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is how the outside of our house is shaping up - we haven't had to do much to the outside except a little power washing and hanging a wreath.  I really love the current paint colors and plan to keep them. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm0CigwxsnTTpVUpipt_JnW0ii8SosX51IJORaqW9pJw8sNLTRtqKhVTc9rLyV54vqyje9OySib0INiaEB8LF7zR1MPI3YFfXI2oW8_0nB9Li6c0mT4DG6morfwQK-W7WvWgSS4AK_Edvh/s1600/IMG_9934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm0CigwxsnTTpVUpipt_JnW0ii8SosX51IJORaqW9pJw8sNLTRtqKhVTc9rLyV54vqyje9OySib0INiaEB8LF7zR1MPI3YFfXI2oW8_0nB9Li6c0mT4DG6morfwQK-W7WvWgSS4AK_Edvh/s640/IMG_9934.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Stacked pumpkin planter. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszxolhNR3o8I-c3gk6JV21pJe-5O58VNLtE_YaF5lbfXTo6Eu_bhEzIlj8FKeLzbGFURTERWgRsxuZStOIYUoSYaFwqHUFy_uZL0FdZ-D-cmJDtFX0ZuJXyzeIeOitL1updDIiHkRq0vh/s1600/IMG_9938.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszxolhNR3o8I-c3gk6JV21pJe-5O58VNLtE_YaF5lbfXTo6Eu_bhEzIlj8FKeLzbGFURTERWgRsxuZStOIYUoSYaFwqHUFy_uZL0FdZ-D-cmJDtFX0ZuJXyzeIeOitL1updDIiHkRq0vh/s640/IMG_9938.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Big girls on the steps.  To everyone's amazement, I decided to forgo my typical 'blue and white pumpkin' look and go for traditional orange and green.  I think the color scheme goes great with the colors of our house - it feels subtle and natural.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Bwh_OsZyffr_5DIsYPrDdC4Zt6bjGyrCbf79j01ec2UoH6o2MbXVFxngnMPwhCq44bBgJjOJ81cdXfXt7Pwu08Rfk3_R82zfvgm-dvAMKithUsLgdiBB_6POT78TukBScKRIa5bo4d2s/s1600/IMG_9941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Bwh_OsZyffr_5DIsYPrDdC4Zt6bjGyrCbf79j01ec2UoH6o2MbXVFxngnMPwhCq44bBgJjOJ81cdXfXt7Pwu08Rfk3_R82zfvgm-dvAMKithUsLgdiBB_6POT78TukBScKRIa5bo4d2s/s640/IMG_9941.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In the flower box, I did orange mums alternating with kale.  When the mums are in full bloom, the contrasting green between them will really make the orange pop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH71ikRTlDPHg_FK8-7eecB_bfkV88OolKccr-FByksnd3GwUlV8ONdXciLaKC0KYuiaiC5nSOiABRGx-yt_mr1b3G_tAuXNz9kXt3IPGx1gYK0CVhTBkRc_ehC2VY1bDTHMCuG9k3COQk/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH71ikRTlDPHg_FK8-7eecB_bfkV88OolKccr-FByksnd3GwUlV8ONdXciLaKC0KYuiaiC5nSOiABRGx-yt_mr1b3G_tAuXNz9kXt3IPGx1gYK0CVhTBkRc_ehC2VY1bDTHMCuG9k3COQk/s640/IMG_0081.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />On our side porch, I have more mums and a couple of gourds.  I put out some velvet and linen pillows to make our seating really cozy.  I'm thinking coffee and scones out here tomorrow morning!

Emma at the Pumpkin Patch & Our "Fallized" Front Steps & Window Box

 When we first bought our house, one of the first things I was looking forward to was decorating the front steps for Fall.  I had a vision f...

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Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDWL5R-Uvd9bC5S6-gI0zsU0rxlUxsxRAN0dLf7X-fjcmcsynYgPXnjWeNH7kiUuuHjBDkk2GD2sbc0GwUQuutd4dxHBxcj2SN3gwNsjKW6WitU-Tesi2SwfKmGNJSi2Yf9TGTxlrkHQ/s1600/IMG_8362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkmOBQYqXm7LuzmjaBeKXW37beE18fTv1r3ZPjyR3EAEOwkrO2HJkXudUWRia2VGGlzJYPa2sZZAdC0sNbQX_hU7huDOyw7dFYulwp4iwI7uQLxQYxUjepgMdaAvu39isP6atWEL3w6sU/s1600/IMG_8369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkmOBQYqXm7LuzmjaBeKXW37beE18fTv1r3ZPjyR3EAEOwkrO2HJkXudUWRia2VGGlzJYPa2sZZAdC0sNbQX_hU7huDOyw7dFYulwp4iwI7uQLxQYxUjepgMdaAvu39isP6atWEL3w6sU/s640/IMG_8369.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Mike is always curious to see what I've stirred into my morning coffee.  He frequently finds mugs around the house with remnants of hershey kisses, cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, etc... sometimes all in the same mug.  I love to doctor up my coffee - it is my special treat in the morning.  Here is the latest combination inspired by the famous Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte.    <br /><br />It is great to serve to a group for brunch, or after dinner.  For those 'black coffee' only drinkers out there, they might not be interested, but if you serve it as dessert with a few <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/11/salted-caramel-chocolate-sandwich.html" target="_blank">Salted Caramel Chocolate Sandwich Cookies</a>, they might be more open to it!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDWL5R-Uvd9bC5S6-gI0zsU0rxlUxsxRAN0dLf7X-fjcmcsynYgPXnjWeNH7kiUuuHjBDkk2GD2sbc0GwUQuutd4dxHBxcj2SN3gwNsjKW6WitU-Tesi2SwfKmGNJSi2Yf9TGTxlrkHQ/s1600/IMG_8362.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDWL5R-Uvd9bC5S6-gI0zsU0rxlUxsxRAN0dLf7X-fjcmcsynYgPXnjWeNH7kiUuuHjBDkk2GD2sbc0GwUQuutd4dxHBxcj2SN3gwNsjKW6WitU-Tesi2SwfKmGNJSi2Yf9TGTxlrkHQ/s400/IMG_8362.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Spice Latte</span><br /><i>the homemade version</i><br /><br />1 cup of coffee or 2 shots of espresso<br />1/2 cup of milk<br />1 teaspoon of sugar<br />1 teaspoon of brown sugar<br />dash of cinnamon<br />dash of nutmeg<br />dash of ground cloves<br />a couple drops of vanilla extract (or a vanilla bean)<br />whipped cream <br /><br />Heat milk in the microwave for 1 minute.  Stir in sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla.  Add coffee or espresso.  Top with whipped cream and a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. 

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Mike is always curious to see what I've stirred into my morning coffee.  He frequently finds mugs around the house with remnants of her...

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Pumpkin Cream Tart | Thanksgiving Recipes | Pumpkin Pie Recipe Upgrade

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2d-wprxGovSmjy09SQnKnjIE1orGjBiVFLFoZ5aET7ioJL4w9jorHrUn5zWhwdiDeNGifGlRqssESJsEKr0-XER3eCus9fiM9tEOj4syDT44sS1-ZJWKDUsygm1NHE5UVMxmyj5sNIic/s1600/IMG_8302.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2d-wprxGovSmjy09SQnKnjIE1orGjBiVFLFoZ5aET7ioJL4w9jorHrUn5zWhwdiDeNGifGlRqssESJsEKr0-XER3eCus9fiM9tEOj4syDT44sS1-ZJWKDUsygm1NHE5UVMxmyj5sNIic/s640/IMG_8302.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It can be hard to break traditions for traditional holidays like Thanksgiving.  This twist on the traditional pumpkin pie will surely satisfy your family's request with just a slight artistic, textural and flavor upgrade.</div><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Cream Tart</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>with leaf & acorn decorations</i></div><br />Crust :<br />1 1/4 cups flour<br />1/2 teaspoon of salt<br />1 teaspoon of sugar<br />1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter, cold, cut into small pieces<br />2 tablespoons of cold water<br /><br />Filling :<br />4 ounces of Cream Cheese, softened<br />1 1/2 cups of brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon of cinnamon<br />1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg<br />3/4 teaspoon of sea salt<br />1 - 14 ounce can of pumpkin puree<br />1 - 12 ounce can of evaporated milk<br /><br />Topping :<br />1 cup of whipping cream<br />1 tablespoon of confectioners sugar<br /><br />For the crust, begin by adding flour, salt and sugar into a food processor.  Add butter and pulse until the mixture looks crumbly.  Drizzle water in while pulsing.  Pulse just until the mixture begins to form a ball.  If the dough is too dry, add a tiny bit of water, if it is too wet, add a bit of flour.  <br /><br />Turn dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap.  Use the wrap to form the dough into a disk, then wrap and refrigerate for an hour (or up to 1 day).  Remove dough from plastic wrap and place it on a lightly floured counter.  Pinch off a small amount of dough to use for the leaf and acorn decorations. <br /><br />For the crust, roll the dough out until it is large enough to fit your tart pan.  Use the rolling pin to help you transfer the dough to the pan.  Place it in the pan, then press it lightly into the pan.  Trim off the excess dough around the edge by pressing it against the sharp edge with your fingers.  <br /><br />For the leaf and acorn decorations, roll out the small amount of dough your reserved.  Use cookie cutters to cut out the shapes of the leaves and acorns.  Set aside.<br /><a name="more"></a><br /><br />To make the filling, combine cream cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and sea salt in a mixer until smooth.  Add pumpkin puree, mix until combined.  Add evaporated milk and mix together until completely smooth.  Pour mixture into the crust.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.  Add leaf and acorn dough shapes to the top of the tart.  Bake for another 20 minutes until the tart filling is set.  Watch the tart carefully.  If it begins to get too brown, cover it with foil.  Let it cool for 30 minutes.  <br /><br />Make the whipped cream just before serving.  Whip whipping cream and sugar in an electric mixer until peaks form.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarLgeq1PEWkPjn9-jLofPOQVXtnWGsP9xFcKp12zvPj3Le1AvKzRBCnjAh0zQuchln3B1DSCKLhucBYHmrAAOsdO2mcPnuhaoKgPVBvANEAAFq5USKtk5FHv1dja0374G9YtAJgiTiyc/s1600/IMG_8193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarLgeq1PEWkPjn9-jLofPOQVXtnWGsP9xFcKp12zvPj3Le1AvKzRBCnjAh0zQuchln3B1DSCKLhucBYHmrAAOsdO2mcPnuhaoKgPVBvANEAAFq5USKtk5FHv1dja0374G9YtAJgiTiyc/s640/IMG_8193.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis39iQRLrWTbb89zNdywlc4g2J64fa8HYIMsGm9ohHqwqh1vEqLDEuxA-CoI8xfeu0C74VoLfJHEHogMeM45gUn0VYGeZzI5cPAQYjrz77TTXli-6if4RlnHfXZIaWXeluoomZC1bipl0/s1600/IMG_8194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nvOjDzAvaB0XfrwfLGsWS56O7I25-FLjsPJ8FeCYnBrTcMFkRpyb86CLkmBs24XblVrZFI3TI0iMFUBA3BcBTmDyGZaaF_MTKgFqXNbMh2-lbJF1nd7Vnlwei-mwrl0TuKQgTWfj3Oo/s640/IMG_8234.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />For more <a href="http://www.jennysteffens.com/thanksgivingplan.html">Thanksgiving Recipes and my step-by-step Thanksgiving Timeline & Check list, click here</a>! </div>

Pumpkin Cream Tart | Thanksgiving Recipes | Pumpkin Pie Recipe Upgrade

It can be hard to break traditions for traditional holidays like Thanksgiving.  This twist on the traditional pumpkin pie will surely satis...

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Pumpkin Carving Party | Front Porch Pumpkin Carving Party

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VfvzWjtlM_xOE8KMkgjvwZ_gHLNFPhJmjDr1QAS6YSQZjttDU9FQqHNx0nssoJYgD3HxK0GMunaE1cGwI7IBReYmCBSQKU_QEOX3QMZrRHSf6CgyzcO-zKcsPMNPfwceU_8-tNWwICc/s1600/IMG_7605.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VfvzWjtlM_xOE8KMkgjvwZ_gHLNFPhJmjDr1QAS6YSQZjttDU9FQqHNx0nssoJYgD3HxK0GMunaE1cGwI7IBReYmCBSQKU_QEOX3QMZrRHSf6CgyzcO-zKcsPMNPfwceU_8-tNWwICc/s640/IMG_7605.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNmzIbPx0OyKSd64JZVFnVQFGr5qcwpsvzOPx-lliyxplYDuam76wbamNBlDCQqUmQJLpwu8rOpZCByNtOu9k7JNfyY2b3_KajpwLGlIbZt6skbNrgmPt0mCBfREJMHpttls3k9d2AJk/s1600/IMG_7602.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIoEqoM0-BbsYJT8lPq0R8Vq-n4-3F365fSrJgUZgZZGGRJ-1n_BTreN1cEbqxJLvPzFpwMrrdivduMtfISNOWiDQ9kAADDGAXMxU9g3KYf3UHBpNdmXY0Qb7tJpV9fRvn8WvmG7Z0jY/s1600/IMG_7640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIoEqoM0-BbsYJT8lPq0R8Vq-n4-3F365fSrJgUZgZZGGRJ-1n_BTreN1cEbqxJLvPzFpwMrrdivduMtfISNOWiDQ9kAADDGAXMxU9g3KYf3UHBpNdmXY0Qb7tJpV9fRvn8WvmG7Z0jY/s400/IMG_7640.jpg" width="300" /></a>If you're like me, I envision myself hosting fabulous events for every season as it approaches.  "This year I'm going to host a spectacular egg hunt for our friends at Easter" or "I can't wait to throw a Caroling party at Christmas time."  Then, before I know it the season has passed and I was too 'busy' to do any of the things I was looking forward to.  </div><br />For some reason, we've convinced ourselves that unless we have a month to plan something and an extra $500 laying around, that hosting a party is out of the question.  And since time and money are always in short supply, we never get around to entertaining.  <br /><br />Don't let this season pass you by!  We look forward to the Fall season all year long - we yearn for the changing leaves, cooler, crisp air and brightly colored pumpkins and mums on front steps.  Celebrate the season - go ahead and have a party!<br /><br />Not every "occasion" has to be a big deal party.  This "Front Porch Pumpkin Carving Party," for example, is something you can throw together in an hour.  It is a great party to have on a Sunday evening or an afternoon after school.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNmzIbPx0OyKSd64JZVFnVQFGr5qcwpsvzOPx-lliyxplYDuam76wbamNBlDCQqUmQJLpwu8rOpZCByNtOu9k7JNfyY2b3_KajpwLGlIbZt6skbNrgmPt0mCBfREJMHpttls3k9d2AJk/s1600/IMG_7602.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNmzIbPx0OyKSd64JZVFnVQFGr5qcwpsvzOPx-lliyxplYDuam76wbamNBlDCQqUmQJLpwu8rOpZCByNtOu9k7JNfyY2b3_KajpwLGlIbZt6skbNrgmPt0mCBfREJMHpttls3k9d2AJk/s640/IMG_7602.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe3kE1GorMZOM0aIxVLyBcr7V30fJgRvP1e9_6i7PSOgLX-nhz0349uRdC1MGwfijsl-fw5OHosQX2Vf60_VTYAxoSP3WTyBBVA8xY8xxBNxU71ILDDI0LLtPgGZPmiyCZq_zyjN-ORs/s1600/IMG_7633.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe3kE1GorMZOM0aIxVLyBcr7V30fJgRvP1e9_6i7PSOgLX-nhz0349uRdC1MGwfijsl-fw5OHosQX2Vf60_VTYAxoSP3WTyBBVA8xY8xxBNxU71ILDDI0LLtPgGZPmiyCZq_zyjN-ORs/s320/IMG_7633.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Carving Party</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>on the front porch</i></div><i><br /></i><br /><div style="text-align: left;">- Apple Cider</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Mugs with Cinnamon Sticks</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Sweet Treat (I made sugar cookies, but you can swing by the bakery to pick up something sweet)<br />- Healthy Treat (apples, trail mix...)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Pumpkins</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Carving Knives</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Big Spoons</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Sharpies (for sketching on your design)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC7Eoe-Jg3h3-XS28X3t-B8UiwFTMO08aLLB5-HObnHPn6I-8-H5vBPSoiNZ8EVDnUlkNuwfxmf2gOhrUk1bnNKg_STvradqHSN7qraVpTecbiZtxt_NgPArUxVMUfCWHI5wGg9e-_L4/s1600/IMG_7610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC7Eoe-Jg3h3-XS28X3t-B8UiwFTMO08aLLB5-HObnHPn6I-8-H5vBPSoiNZ8EVDnUlkNuwfxmf2gOhrUk1bnNKg_STvradqHSN7qraVpTecbiZtxt_NgPArUxVMUfCWHI5wGg9e-_L4/s640/IMG_7610.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />When I was planning this blog post, I was inspired by the article in the most recent Martha Stewart Living that featured a long rustic farm table draped with plaid flannel blankets, a menu with homemade soups and ice cream sundaes in carved out apples.  I wanted to create something similar in my own back yard.  But Mike is out of town this week, so I had no muscle to help set up the table... and I didn't have enough time to make the soup.  So I decided, I just wouldn't do it.<br /><br />Then I thought, there has to be a simpler way to host a pumpkin carving party - it is, after all, just about having friends over to carve pumpkins.  How much planning and decorating does there have to be?  That was when the front porch concept was born.  That is where I've always carved my pumpkins anyway!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0HWIT5Viz8zyw_ThuuXnbY8IwB-X2WXsi9c9CEtNinF2pHONV3d4vY2Y_mQ0Ga9UnMlDfKmkRI6MUcDHl3xPB32yBjt_rxj_UJPZFkz4LfkFRQxLOp7TJ0Ri9ZPjH-boEvrT7uA5UbA/s1600/IMG_7589.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0HWIT5Viz8zyw_ThuuXnbY8IwB-X2WXsi9c9CEtNinF2pHONV3d4vY2Y_mQ0Ga9UnMlDfKmkRI6MUcDHl3xPB32yBjt_rxj_UJPZFkz4LfkFRQxLOp7TJ0Ri9ZPjH-boEvrT7uA5UbA/s640/IMG_7589.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIoEqoM0-BbsYJT8lPq0R8Vq-n4-3F365fSrJgUZgZZGGRJ-1n_BTreN1cEbqxJLvPzFpwMrrdivduMtfISNOWiDQ9kAADDGAXMxU9g3KYf3UHBpNdmXY0Qb7tJpV9fRvn8WvmG7Z0jY/s1600/IMG_7640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />I made these Fall Sugar Cookies and put them in <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging">cellophane bags</a> (you can <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging">buy here in my online store</a>!).  Here is my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/12/recipes-christmas-cookies-christmas.html">Sugar Cookie Recipe</a> - Stay tuned for more photos of the Fall cookies and my decorating techniques! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn42ouAirf9dIcw5ZtTNi4x8EbMW2EDkrLV6AUnl04YXQLCa239BA3JHSo8JBsofooIN7COqY1m833Y-0nJA4Vj-zuN9jQNryb8PKMLc6jF3ld8WZSnNKzMN_OYj93MGk-V2RMhcCcgA/s1600/IMG_7590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn42ouAirf9dIcw5ZtTNi4x8EbMW2EDkrLV6AUnl04YXQLCa239BA3JHSo8JBsofooIN7COqY1m833Y-0nJA4Vj-zuN9jQNryb8PKMLc6jF3ld8WZSnNKzMN_OYj93MGk-V2RMhcCcgA/s640/IMG_7590.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />Carving Tools : I found some wooden handled cheese knives in my kitchen that I thought would work great.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPOW3xMjgQ6NQiXqUJWEe6QbW3RfIUmMh-M59fGVT2Z0TBu1SRF4yLeWk0R_o8LWN_CC9lKUwx-tsUythGYZFlS7bCNZxwMK01etKhEx9yCRxnV8ojLh2LAMH58hYqomvus3sMkVuINs/s1600/IMG_7585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPOW3xMjgQ6NQiXqUJWEe6QbW3RfIUmMh-M59fGVT2Z0TBu1SRF4yLeWk0R_o8LWN_CC9lKUwx-tsUythGYZFlS7bCNZxwMK01etKhEx9yCRxnV8ojLh2LAMH58hYqomvus3sMkVuINs/s640/IMG_7585.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />I heated up the apple cider on my stove, then put it in this vintage Ball jar.  I served it in mugs with a cinnamon sticks. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgys4QBKrw_rAEgEZ47U9cmAUJ1Woo3G_DWheqkD2RpoOwgrnusYNX0coUdus2WxM8MH5fbyUHNUpq_KDMKMtyNpjUdT1ZA0GxJVeXNI2J54cwrVIRTXf_TzTWNdB-39awZzqcYadxXeO4/s1600/Pumpkin-Carving-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgys4QBKrw_rAEgEZ47U9cmAUJ1Woo3G_DWheqkD2RpoOwgrnusYNX0coUdus2WxM8MH5fbyUHNUpq_KDMKMtyNpjUdT1ZA0GxJVeXNI2J54cwrVIRTXf_TzTWNdB-39awZzqcYadxXeO4/s1600/Pumpkin-Carving-5.jpg" /></a></div><br />I've designed 4 different designs that can be emailed to your invitees.  <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/10/pumpkin-carving-party-invitation-fall.html">Click here to see all 4!</a><br /><br />Have you been inspired?! Are you planning to host a simple (or elaborate?!) <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/10/pumpkin-carving-party-front-porch.html">Pumpkin Carving Party</a> of your own?  I'd love to see photos of your party!  Leave a comment with a link to photos of your party, or email them to me directly (jenny@jennysteffens.com).  I may feature it on the blog!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNmzIbPx0OyKSd64JZVFnVQFGr5qcwpsvzOPx-lliyxplYDuam76wbamNBlDCQqUmQJLpwu8rOpZCByNtOu9k7JNfyY2b3_KajpwLGlIbZt6skbNrgmPt0mCBfREJMHpttls3k9d2AJk/s1600/IMG_7602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>

Pumpkin Carving Party | Front Porch Pumpkin Carving Party

If you're like me, I envision myself hosting fabulous events for every season as it approaches.  "This year I'm going to host a...

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