Who wants to talk about the holidays in January? Yeah...me neither. But one of the most popular gifts I give is my homemade Madagascar Vanilla Extract and it takes a very long time to cure. In fact, I think it should cure a year or more until the depth of flavor borders on decadence. So here I've included everything I use to make mine in hopes that you'll feel Girl Scout prepared for next season!

Hello! First off, I want to say Thank You to those of you who participated in the reader survey and left comments. I loved the conversations we had on that post. It was so kind of you to take the time and I'm looking forward to sharing my thoughts and results in the near future. In the meantime, here are a few things of note lately:

This is one of my all time favorite kitchens I've styled for Country Living. Their feature shares 7 Ways to Warm up White. I use the term "styled" loosely here, because it's the kitchen of my friend and colleague, Victoria Pearson and her taste is impeccable. Virtually no props were needed as I was able to use her incredible collection of dishes, pottery and kitchen wares. And before we go further, can we discuss the floor? Imported antique French terracotta tiles....so dreamy!

Over the years, I've purposely pared down my seasonal decor. I find that I can be just as content and inspired by using natural elements and a few fun or surprising seasonal items scattered in the mix. To me, the end result can be just as special and holiday-like. Plus, there are the added bonuses of saving money on the budget and space in the attic, garage and basement. Today, I thought I'd share with you a few of the ways I incorporate my less is more strategy and ideas with a seasonal autumn table setting.

First off, let me say these recipes could not be easier. Really. Even if your cooking skills are next to nil, you will have success with these simple and fast syrups. And there's something so fun about making your own, people think you know fancy tricks in the kitchen. Which obviously will be our little secret.

Adding a coffee station to the kitchen was a given, being that The Man is Italian and pretty much bleeds espresso. He can drink coffee unlike anyone I've ever met. I don't know how he does it.

We positioned it next to the refrigerator and walk-in pantry and it's turned out to be a good location, with quick easy access to the half & half and skim milk. For the recessed shelf, I decided to use marble in lieu of maple like the cabinets, and had a 2" mitered edge added to match all the counters. With the other open shelves in the kitchen being salvaged wood, I think the unexpected mix of the marble shelf is a nice compliment to the space. The drawers and two large pull-out trays below provide plenty of storage for assorted coffees, teas and other accoutrements.