Submitted by Venus Diva Magazine Reader Rochelle Bartholomew from Bordentown, NJ

A chill is in the air, and the leaves are on the ground.  Now is the time to plan your Thanksgiving Table!

Start with Fall colors; greens, browns, golds and rusts.

In this time of budget crunch & being eco conscience, I like to recycle. One of my best keep secrets is shopping at the thrift store.  I find great wood trays, bowls, baskets; even candle sticks!

Start with a large wood tray or bowl. (It doesn't matter if they are marred, you will be covering it).

Place 3 large candles of vary heights, in a triangle pattern.  

What better way to appeal to the senses then the smell of coffee!  So reach for the coffee beans. Spread the coffee beans around the bottom of a large wood bowl or tray, and then add a few nuts, cinnamon sticks and dried fruit.  (See recipe below)

Your guests will remark, "What is that fantastic smell", and they aren't talkin turkey!

How to Make Dried Apples

You will need:
Red apples
2 C lemon juice
3 T salt

Slice apples 1/4 inch thick, leaving in the core. Soak the slices for 20 minutes in a mixture of 2 cups lemon juice and 3 tablespoons salt. Be sure to cover completely. Remove slices and pat dry with paper towels. Place on wire rack placed on cookie sheets.  Bake at 150º oven over night. (6-8 hours). If they start to curl, turn them over.
When done, the slices should have a leathery type feel.

How to Make Dried Oranges

You will need:
Oranges - cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices. Discard end pieces.  
Do not soak in salt solution, but dry on rack at 150º  (6-8 hours).  They should be pliable

Enjoy the holiday season with family and friends!