As a gardener, I feel a certain sadness as I am forced to break a bond that I have spent the spring and summer nurturing. Although it is easy for one to become nostalgic during this time, it is necessary to move forward because it is crucial to prepare for the long winter that lies ahead ... although those beautiful blooms are a long way off and we must put our garden to bed, we shift to a new buzz of life that is brought about by the gathering of family and friends under one roof for the holidays.

Arranged by individual plants--dahlias and chrysanthemums can be counted on for their late-fall showiness--as well as specific projects and festivities, including Halloween, bulb planting, and Thanksgiving, each chapter offers a host of ideas for savoring autumn's flavor through arts and crafts projects, practical gardening tips, succulent recipes, and creative entertaining advice. 

Celebrate Turkey day in style with elegant place cards--easily created with a rubber stamp and ecru stationary--that compliment lemon leaf, eucalyptus berry, and autumn-hued rose table arrangements, while a menu of poisson with rosemary and sage, potato and parsnip purée, and pumpkin soufflé--all clearly spelled out in Roehm's meticulous recipes--would make any family thankful.