‘Raven’ous for Poe — My Haunting Edgar Allan Poe Tablescape for a Postponed Birthday Bash

 

Oh, the horror... the sheer, unrelenting horror of a postponed party, but let me tell you, that nothing—not even a sudden illness among my guests—could deter me from honoring my boundless love for Edgar Allan Poe. You see, October 7th isn't just my birthday; it's the anniversary of Poe's passing in 1849. So, every year, I craft a tablescape tribute as close to that date as possible. This one was meticulously planned for a pre-birthday gathering on Sunday, October 5th. Alas, one attendee fell ill, pushing us to the 19th. Did that dim my dread-filled delight? Nevermore!

What emerged was a gothic masterpiece of macabre elegance—a tablescape that whispers “The Raven” from every corner, blending literary reverence with spooky seasonal flair.

 

It all started with a favorite black checked tablecloth, dusted off every autumn like a cherished tome from Poe's library. It’s a cozy yet chilling autumnal base. Layered atop is a gauzy champagne-color runner for that rustic, raven-perched-on-a-withered-bust vibe. This is topped with fabric yardage emblazoned with brooding images from the Poe tales — portraits, quotes, and shadowy silhouettes. Draped down the center, it transforms the table into a portal to 19th-century Baltimore. 

At center is Poe himself, perched in eternal vigil, atop the late Mr. O-P’s books published in the 1740s. (Yes, you read that right—antique treasures adding authentic gravitas!) 

 

Guarding his flank? A vintage looking typewriter flanked by two skeleton mice (scored from Michael's years ago). It's as if Poe's dictating his next tale of terror right there.And because I believe every seat deserves a spectral surprise, behind him sits an open book pierced by a raven (another Michael's gem). No blank stares at this table—gaze upon gothic glory from any angle. 

 

Iron candlestick holders—local finds from 25 years ago—stand sentinel, their petite bases perfect for seasonal whimsy. Thanksgiving calls for mini candle rings of bittersweet, Christmas calls for cranberries, this time, spooky-colored M&Ms evoke a cauldron of candy-coated doom. 

Woven placemats cradle locally made tin chargers. Stacked atop are rustic black stoneware plates, crowned with vibrant Fiestaware orange salad plates, and finished with appetizer plates from William-Sonoma's legendary “Midnight Dreary” collection (a Poe pun perfection from years past). 

Crystal stemware sparkles beside Pottery Barn skeleton wine glasses (that you last saw here). New this year: pumpkin colored cappuccino cups.

 

A fun addition are these spider votive holders (complete with flameless tea lights), because who doesn't need arachnid ambiance? 

 

Unique flatware gleams with understated elegance. For name cards? 

 

Adorable mice card holders from Creative Co-Op clutching “Quoth the Raven” and “Nevermore” are actually cheese markers, but seem so perfect here. (Note to self: Use them for actual cheese boards next time!) 

 

The skull snack plate (by Creative Co-Op) awaits molded butter in skull shapes—utterly unholy!  

Skull bowls serve croutons via a pair of tongs that once belonged to the late Mr. O-P’s mother, and was a part of her silver tea service from the 19^th century – SO Poe! Skeleton hand napkin rings grip lush green napkins. 

 

This wasn't just a setup; it was a love letter to Poe—a boundless passion poured into every layer. Postponed or not, it proves you can channel the macabre master anytime. Elegant enough for literary lovers, eerie enough for Halloween, and versatile for any fall feast.

 

Recreate it? Start with your plaid cloth, raid Michaels for ravens, and let your inner Poe soar. What's your favorite way to haunt the holidays?

Shop the full look: Links embedded above. 

All images © Olla-Podrida 

 Share your recreations with #PoeTablescapeMagic!

 This post is linked to: Tablescape Thursday

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Golden Onion & Mushroom Melt

 

Sometimes a sandwich is so good that I just can’t wait to dig in, making it tough to snap that perfect blog-worthy shot. Let’s face it, I've got this hot, gooey masterpiece fresh from the skillet, and the urge to eat it is real! So, I’m sorry if these photos don’t quite do it justice because this Golden Onion & Mushroom Melt is pure comfort food bliss, with sweet caramelized onions, savory mushrooms, and melty Swiss cheese nestled between crispy sourdough. The flavors are bold, the prep is simple, and the result is a sandwich that’s worth every bite, camera-ready or not.

Golden Onion & Mushroom Melt 

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

1½ T. olive oil, divided

½ t. butter

½ t. brown sugar

¼ t. balsamic vinegar

½ lb. cremini mushrooms, sliced

1 clove garlic, minced

½ T. fresh thyme (or ¼ t. dried thyme)

2 T. dry white wine (NOT optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 slices sourdough bread

2 oz. Swiss cheese, thinly sliced

1 T. butter, softened

½ T. Dijon mustard

In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and ½ tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until golden brown. Stir in brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, cook for 2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

In the same skillet, heat ½ tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Add garlic, thyme, and white wine (if using), cooking for 1-2 minutes until the wine evaporates. Season with salt and pepper.

 Butter one side of each bread slice.On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread Dijon mustard (if using), then layer with Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and mushrooms. Top with the second slice, buttered side up.

 In a clean skillet over medium-low heat, cook the sandwich for 3-5 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. Cover the skillet to help the cheese melt.

 Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy immediately while it’s hot and melty!

The Golden Onion & Mushroom Melt is the ultimate comfort food. The onions, slow-cooked to sweet perfection, pair beautifully with earthy mushrooms and nutty Swiss cheese. Sourdough bread adds a tangy crunch, and a touch of Dijon mustard brings a subtle zing. It’s an easy recipe that feels gourmet, perfect for a cozy lunch or quick dinner. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and endlessly customizable—swap cheeses or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!

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A Serial Killer's Cookbook by Stacey Roberts, Reviewed

 

I am so excited to post this book review because I don't know when I last had this much fun reading.

In the quaint town of Madison, Indiana, single mom Amelia Stark juggles the chaos of everyday life: a meddlesome ex-husband, a sleazy boss with wandering hands, and her whip-smart 12-year-old son, Gene Four, who's equal parts precocious historian and comic relief. But when that boss turns up dead, complete with a black eye courtesy of Amelia's righteous punch, the small-town gossip mill cranks into overdrive, painting her as the prime suspect in what looks like the work of a serial killer. As bizarre funerals pile up and suspicion mounts, Amelia must channel her inner detective, leaning on her budding romance with the town doctor, a surprise visit from her private-investigator uncle, and yes, her killer chili recipe to clear her name before the real murderer strikes again.

 What makes A Serial Killer's Cookbook stand above the trope-filled shelves is Stacey Roberts' razor-sharp wit and authentic small-town vibe, read: think judgmental locals who know your business before you do, laced with laugh-out-loud sarcasm that had me snorting over lines like Gene's deadpan Roman history quips during tense stakeouts. The recipes kicking off each chapter aren't just clever gimmicks; they're mouthwatering interludes (that Crime Scene Chili? I'm trying it this weekend) that tie into the plot without feeling forced, adding a delicious layer to the suspense. Roberts nails the character arcs too—Amelia's no-nonsense resilience shines as a beacon for single parents everywhere, while Gene steals every scene with his insightful banter and quirky facts, making their mother-son dynamic the heartfelt core that lingers long after the twisty reveal.

Be warned, the setup simmers slowly at first, and genre fans might spot the killer coming, but the epilogue's payoff and those innovative backstory flashbacks make it all worthwhile. This isn't just a page-turner, it's a warm, hilarious reminder that even in murder central, family and a good meal can conquer anything. An enthusiastic five stars. I cannot wait for book two!

You can get a copy here.

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Sun-Dried Tomato Dip – A Flavorful, Versatile Spread

 

I’m a self-proclaimed dip enthusiast—give me a fridge stocked with hummus, tapenades, spreads, and dips, and I’m a happy camper. There’s something so satisfying about having a variety of flavorful spreads on hand. Whether I’m slathering them onto crackers to accompany soup or salad, spreading them on baguette slices and popping them under the broiler for a quick appetizer, or setting out a bowl for unexpected guests to enjoy with drinks, dips are my go-to for versatility and flavor.

 One recipe that’s recently caught my attention is Ina Garten’s Sun-Dried Tomato Dip from FoodNetwork.com. It’s a creamy, tangy blend of sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and scallions with a kick of hot red pepper sauce. I had some sun-dried tomatoes languishing in my pantry, and this recipe was the perfect way to put them to good use. With a yield of about 2 cups, it’s just the right amount for a small gathering or to keep in the fridge for snacking.

 Here’s my take on Ina’s recipe, with one tweak: I cut the kosher salt in half. Trust me, the original 1 teaspoon of kosher salt felt like overkill to my taste buds, and if you’re using regular table salt, it could turn this dip into a salty brine. So, proceed with caution and adjust to your preference. Other than that, this dip is a winner! It’s bursting with the summery flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and scallions, yet it feels just as at home in the fall for tailgating or cozy entertaining. Bonus: it gets even tastier after a night in the fridge, letting those flavors meld into something truly garden-fresh and irresistible.

Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

¼ c. Melissa’s sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped (about 8 tomatoes)

1 8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, at room temperature

½ c. sour cream

½ c. Duke’s mayonnaise

10 drops hot red pepper sauce

½ t. kosher salt (or less, to taste)

¾ t. freshly ground black pepper

 2 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)

 In a food processor fitted with a metal blade, puree the sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, hot red pepper sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Add the scallions and pulse twice to incorporate.

Serve at room temperature with crackers, veggies, or baguette slices. For a warm twist, spread on baguette slices and broil until bubbly.

 Yield: 2 cups

Keeps in the fridge for up to a week; flavors improve overnight.

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Rüdesheimer Coffee – A German Classic to Warm Your Winter

As a caffeine-addicted coffee aficionado who’s spent countless hours glued to German television, I’ve stumbled across some fascinating foods. Currywurst—chopped sausage drowned in red curry sauce at street-side Wurstbraterei left me skeptical. It just didn’t scream “appetizing.” But then I discovered Rüdesheimer Coffee, and my coffee-loving heart skipped a beat. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual, served in special cups and saucers, blending strong coffee, authentic Asbach brandy, sweetened whipped cream, and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.

 

Come winter (if it ever arrives), this is certainly to become my go-to afternoon indulgence. Here’s how to bring this German gem to life at home, with a nod to authenticity that makes all the difference.

Authentic Rüdesheimer Coffee Recipe
Serves 1

 Use a dedicated Rüdesheimer coffee cup or a heatproof mug for the full experience.

3 Demerara sugar cubes (or 3 t. sugar)
1 shot (1.5 oz) authentic Asbach brandy (or another high-quality dry brandy)
4 oz. strong brewed coffee
2 T. whipped cream, sweetened with a pinch of vanilla sugar
½ t. chocolate shavings or cocoa power

Place sugar cubes in a heatproof mug or Rüdesheimer coffee cup.

Warm the Asbach brandy in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then pour over the sugar cubes.

Carefully light the brandy with a long match. Stir with a long spoon until the sugar dissolves completely. (If the flame persists beyond a minute, cover the mug with a plate to extinguish.)

Pour the hot, strong coffee into the mug with the brandy-sugar mixture.

Top with sweetened whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

Serve immediately and savor the warmth!

Authenticity matters! Use Asbach brandy, a German staple, for the true Rüdesheimer experience. Substitutes work, but they lack the same depth and tradition.

This drink is more than coffee—it’s a cozy, boozy hug from Germany’s Rhine Valley. Perfect for chilly afternoons or impressing guests with a touch of European flair. Have you tried Rüdesheimer Coffee, or do you have another coffee cocktail up your sleeve? Give me the skinny.

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Spooky October Hutch Decor & Halloween Skull Bowl Ideas

 

October is my favorite month, not just because it’s my birthday month, but because it’s the perfect excuse to deck out my home with all things Halloween! Having an October birthday is like winning the seasonal lottery. The crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and the spooky spirit make every celebration extra special. Over the years, friends and family have indulged my love for spooky season, gifting me an array of Halloween decorations and tableware that make my heart skip a beat. My hutch is the star of the show, especially the bottom portion, which I’ve transformed into a festive Halloween display; it’s a spooky masterpiece. New this year are the salt and pepper shakers, the skull bowls, the “Trick or Treat” cheese board (that you read about here), and the adorable cat teapot from my sweet daughter-in-law, Emma, wife of son #2. 

But the real dilemma this year? My two adorable (yet small) skull bowls. Should I serve a crisp fall salad in them, or set them out with croutons for guests to sprinkle on their own? I’m leaning toward both options, depending on the vibe of the gathering. 

Salad Option: These small skull bowls are perfect for individual servings of a fall salad. Picture a mix of arugula, roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette served in a spooky skull— a conversation starter, no? 

OR 

Crouton Option: Alternatively, I could place the bowls on the table filled with homemade croutons. Guests can grab a handful to top their salads, adding a fun, interactive element to the meal.OR…any ideas of your own?

I’m torn, so I’d love your input! Should these skull bowls be the main event or a supporting act? Either way, they’re a playful nod to Halloween that ties my table to the hutch’s spooky aesthetic.If you’re an October baby or just a Halloween enthusiast, let your decor reflect your personality. Mix practical tableware like my skull bowls with decorative pieces for a cohesive look. And don’t be afraid to experiment—Halloween is all about fun and creativity! Share your spooky setups in the comments or tag me on social media. Let’s make this October the spookiest yet!Check out my TikTok video to see the hutch in all its Halloween glory and weigh in on the skull bowl debate!As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Get Cozy with SIX Spooky Halloween Mysteries in One Boxed Set!

As the crisp fall air settles in and Halloween creeps closer, there’s no better time to dive into a chilling yet cozy mystery collection that’s perfect for the season. The Halloween Cozy Mysteries (Killer Cozy Mystery Boxed Set) by New York Times, USA TODAY, and Wall Street Journal bestselling authors Addison Moore and Bellamy Bloom delivers over 1,000 pages of spooky humor and homicide. From haunted cupcakes in Honey Hollow to a deadly cruise through the Panama Canal, each story weaves quirky characters, clever pets, and a dash of murder into a frothy, fun escape. Curl up by the fire on a rainy evening with a steaming cup of cocoa—hopefully not spiked with something deadly—and let these tales whisk you away to cozy towns where killers lurk. The best thing is that, as of this writing, this set is free on Kindle or the Kindle app.

This boxed set includes six captivating mysteries:

 Killer Halloween Cupcakes (Murder in the Mix), where a baker sees the dead.

 Dog Days of Murder (Country Cottage Mysteries), featuring a mind-reading innkeeper.

 Haunted Halloween Murder (Meow for Murder), set in Vermont with cats and killers.

 Panama Canal Killer Cruise (Cruising Through Midlife), a spooky high-seas adventure.

 Murder for Beginners (Brambleberry Bay Murder Club), where a country club turns deadly.

 Double Double Recoil & Trouble (Pain in the Assassin Cozy Mysteries), with a haunted house horror.

 Each story is packed with charm, wit, and just the right amount of Halloween spookiness, making this collection a must-read for mystery lovers craving a seasonal thrill.

 Whether you’re a fan of small-town intrigue or cruise-ship suspense, this boxed set has it all, wrapped in a delightfully eerie package. Perfect for those chilly October nights, these stories will keep you guessing while you sip your cocoa and listen to the rain patter outside. Grab the Halloween Cozy Mysteries (Killer Cozy Mystery Boxed Set) today and immerse yourself in a spooktacular good time that’s as cozy as it is captivating. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate Halloween with a literary escape that’s equal parts heartwarming and hair-raising!

 Order the set here.

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