French Country: A Quiet Transition into Fall

Fall arrives next week and I find I'm looking around the house, wondering how I will transition
my decor into the new season. I want to keep it simple and dramatic all at the same time.

Fall decor takes it cue from nature: hillsides covered in gold, 

bugling elk in the mountain meadows, leaves crunching underfoot, 

fruit pies warm from the oven, and cool, fresh air.

Definitely one of my favorite times of year.

I thought I'd try a fall look on my chippy red farm table.

All the paint colors, chips and scars tell a story of a well-loved piece
so sometimes I leave it bare.

Here's the current look -- summery, fresh, ready for a picnic.

But with fall just around the corner, it's time for a mini-makeover.

It's always fun to look back for inspiration.

This earthy basket filled with apples was from last year's dining room table. 

The southwestern look always makes me think of fall trips to Taos and Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

White pumpkins, antlers and nuts on a white platter is simple fall perfection. 

OK, so I'm inspired. Let's get busy.

First thing I do is remove everything from the table and start from scratch.

I love vintage tablecloths so I pull a couple of my favorites out of my storage cupboard 

to see what might bring a fall flavor to the table.
This little table is the perfect size for old tablecloths.

I also consider a burlap runner.

But finally decide on this squash-colored tablecloth, a gift from my dear friend, Rusty. 

I love its simple, warm beauty, perfect for fall.

Oh, and I just have to tell you about this little chair I found at Goodwill for $12. 
The wood was dull and extremely dried out; the legs and seat were clogged with dirt and cobwebs. But it was sturdy and I could see its hidden beauty so I took it home and cleaned it up.
A furniture expert told me it's probably English and from the 1800s. 
It's actually quite comfortable and now I'm always watching Goodwill for its mate!

Back to decorating for fall. What kind of centerpiece should I use?
We often think of brilliant red leaves and bright orange pumpkins for fall color
but neutrals can be just as seasonal and as lovely.
Gathering several objects, I'll try different arrangements and see what works.

Maybe some ironstone and an old breadboard.
Love how it looks but it may be too much for such a small table.
The small basket with the forks in it graced our supper table every night when I was growing up.
It was always filled with sliced white Wonder bread.

I like to use a tray or platter as a base. 

It anchors the centerpiece and makes it easy to move when we want to use the table.

Aren't these little metal chicks adorable?

Baskets have a nice natural feel that quietly complement the season.

I'm liking this neutral palette indoors this fall so I'll enjoy the bright colors outside.

Happy Fall Everyone!

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