It’s That Time
October 19, 2023
It’s time again for some of my Fall favorites, and no, there is no Pumpkin spiced anything on the list. I have managed over time to embrace Fall rather than looking at it as the slow descent into a long cold Winter. Yes, I have gathered a list of what I look forward to as we approach setting the clocks back and it even surprises me.
You can’t beat the surprise of finding Bittersweet vine while you’re engaged in your Fall yard clean-up.
In Michigan, there is no shortage of apple orchards or an endless variety of locally grown apples.
My favorite Fall activity, stoking up the burn pile. Adds a little something special to the task of cleaning up the yard.
White pumpkins I like. I like any of the specialty varieties that are now available everywhere as well…green, pink, multi colored. I think it’s just the shade of orange that had turned me off to pumpkins all this time. That particular color or the fact I’m not a big fan of Halloween.
If you’re lucky enough to have the last straggler’s of heirloom garden roses, like these Polo. I particularly like them tucked into a Heath Ceramic Tall Modern Cup.

Sour Cream Apple Pie, a different take on the American Classic. The single crust makes it even easier to knock out on a Sunday sfternoon.
Along with apple orchards, my area has no shortage of cider mills all conveniently located. Crisp and refreshing, nothing beats a glass of cider on an October afternoon. I wouldn’t say no to a splash of Bourbon either.
Quince. Looks like an apple doesn’t it? But, you need to cook it down to enjoy. While that pie’s in the oven you might as well stir up a batch of Quince Paste on the stove. Add it to your next cheese board when you’re watching a game or binge viewing.
There is just something about this color. I look forward to this Sumac color change more than anything else I think. When I see it’s first color change I know I know it’s Fall.
photos: gp
Finishing Touches
November 18, 2018
With Thanksgiving dinner under control it might be a good idea to give a little thought to setting the table. Whether you’re hosting a few or a crowd, that table will be full, so keep things simple. No elaborate centerpiece, just a simplequietmodern statement of a neutral palette and a scattering of a few fresh flowers, fruit and fall leaves scavenged from the yard. Maximum style impact…very little effort. Done.
Top to bottom:
While I generally favor Bosc pears for their warm sueded finish, this year I’ll be using Quince. Over the weekend they’ll be transformed into Quince Paste or Membrillo to enjoy later. Photo: gp https://simplequietmodern.com/2012/12/14/small-plates/
For everyday use or any special gathering there is nothing like the classic modern statement of Heath Ceramics Coupe Dinnerware and new Muir Flatware. Photo: https://www.heathceramics.com
I’m a sucker for a natural jute linen napkin. This one in Flax linen shot with silver brings it up a modern notch for the holiday. Photo: https://www.unisonhome.com/new/new-holiday-catalog/etoile-flax-and-silver-napkin.html
I’m still loving pink for Fall so why not the best of the MidCentury floral offerings than pale pink carnations? Just a few in each small container…cup, cocktail glass or vase…scattered about should do it. Photo: gp
Check your yard for just a handful of perfect fallen leaves.This year I’m liking the way the shape color and texture of these oak leaves works tucked in with everything else. Photo:gp
Paper or…
November 15, 2015
You know I can work a classic Kraft paper shopping bag six ways till Sunday. But, this waxed canvas market bag takes simplequietmodern to a new level. Easy care cotton canvas hand coated with organic beeswax. Perfect for carrying all the quince, apples and persimmons you’ll be cooking up during the holidays and leaving the brown bags you’ve been recycling available for the wrapping of gifts come December.
Top photo:https://food52.com/shop/products/718-waxed-canvas-market-bag
others: gp
Small plates…
December 14, 2012
Appetizers…Bocas…or simply snacks, a single hor d’oeuvre or an assortment can be a prelude to dinner or actually be dinner. Grazing for me has always been preferable to the large meal. “Befores and afters” make for simple uncomplicated entertaining during the holidays. Small plates , when given a little thought before hand, can be gathered or prepared ahead in many cases leaving you free to enjoy hosting a smart soiree without a pocket full of Xanax. The relaxing task of preparing one item, quince paste for example, can be done a few days in advance and the accompanying bread, Manchego cheese, olives and Marcona almonds can be gathered in one quick stop at the market. Some wine and perhaps something of chocolate and you are ready to entertain a handful of friends on the fly any night of the week. 




I used the recipe for the Quince Paste ( Menbrillo) here:http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/membrillo_quince_paste/




















