Satisfying and so so pretty, blooming bulbs make wonderful gifts and inexpensive decorations (far cheaper than fresh cut flowers). You still have time, if you plant them this week, to get narcissus going. They don't need much at all -- a little soil or just plant them in water with decorative rocks. There is something about the early evenings that makes us want to hunker down and surround ourselves with living things and, of course, candle light. Seek out pillar candles and votives; pull out all of those candle holders and find pretty containers (old vases and jugs). If you are planning to serve your Thanksgiving dinner after the sun has set, you might want to think about lighting the dining room solely with candle light. It is soft and romantic, setting the mood for conversations that will linger well after the last piece of pie is finished. Speaking of pie, don't forget to get your cranberries now along with the supplies you might want for baking. (Or, if you are planning to use prepared crusts and canned fillings, it's a good time to stock up). It's also time to start thinking about the menu, and those dishes you may not want to make. Should any of your guests have family specialties ask them to contribute those to the feast (my friend Leslie always makes and brings her aunts creamed onions). It's also OK to give assignments to the guests who ask if they can bring something and are open to suggestions. For those who don't want to cook, invite them to contribute a bottle of wine or sparkling fruit juice. Plant some bulbs, get out your note pad, start sketching out what you think the meal should include. Pick up the phone and get the ball rolling. Thanksgiving is beginning to bloom.

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