Hello! I am back after a busy week. Sorry I have not posted earlier with the results of my "renovated" arrangement. First of all, I am keeping the garland because ... I like it! :) It really doesn't look as bad as it does in photos and without it, the runner looks stark. I suppose I could put down my burgundy runner (I use it at Christmas,) however it will all be coming off the table in two weeks, anyway. Secondly, I will be removing the arrangement when we eat, and Les, I love your idea for the cake plate, candles and gourds. That will be perfect! I did take out the grass, then realized that they were needed for fill-in, so I placed them up higher in the floral stems to have a more natural look. After looking at the new photos, I realize that all the pom poms are facing the front, so I will move one to the back. The twigs are not showing up as well with the flash. OK, here is the new and improved arrangement. Better? HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!!

The roses in floral tubes sounds intriguing. This couple is eco-friendly and the containers provide a way to decorate the church and then they will re-purpose the planters and the plants in their home. I liked several of the arrangements in Deborah Silver's site. Some of the plants she utilized are contenders. Roses are the flower of love, exquisite in and of themselves, hence their appropriateness. I probably will elect to not use them as roses can be tricky in August - some varieties take a break from blooming in hot weather. I may stick with Red Mandeviila - red the color of love and Mandevilla is a consistent bloomer, throughout the summer, also relatively bug free. Thanks for your post!

I'm not clear on why you don't like this placement? To me, this looks ideal - kids zone at the end of the room with shelving and baskets for storage, TV on wall by windows with couch facing it. You have a nice set up for ease of conversation and looks warm and inviting.

I've always avoided sending live plants when someone passes away. Caring for them and attempting to keep them alive just adds to the burden of the survivors who are trying to cope with learning how to live day to day without the one who is no longer with them. In the case of a widowed spouse, It's hard enough to get into a new routine, new social status, sort out all the paperwork that's required, even learn to cook for one, etc., without feeling obligated to keep plants alive that they didn't want in the first place. Even bouquets of flowers, while easier, have to be dealt with as well. I know they are sent with love and the best of intentions, but perhaps a donation to a charity the deceased supported or just a heartfelt card is something that will make life a little bit easier for the one who is trying to adjust to these new and frightening circumstances. Jasdip, it you don't want to deal with the plants and they are causing you distress, just get rid of them and don't feel the least bit guilty about it. Hugs to you; I'm sorry you are having to go through all this. It's especially hard this time of year, but the holidays are almost over and I hope that will help you a little bit.