happy {almost} thanksgiving.

Last year, we hosted 20 people in our new {old} house. We were just reflecting last night, 2009 was one of our favorite Thanksgivings in recent memory. A lot of work. A lot of fun. This year, sure we are making a few side dishes but we are going to make the 2 mile circuit to Mike's sister's house, my sister's house and a pop in on some friends en route. When we get a chance to host again, I am all over this decor. It has a lot of my favorites---Home Goods craftiness, metallic spray on pumpkins, wide pin-stripes and organic and sparkly all at once. The story behind this photo shoot and tablescape is here. I particularly like how creative smarts and family-friendly casual can sometimes go together in a photo shoot.

There is so much to be thankful for this year....made even more sweet by moments when we got a wake-up call to recalibrate and focus on the essentials- health, family, friends and a warm home.

Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving.

{erica + mike}