Have a Truly Texan Thanksgiving!

Sure—we have traditional food items that we associate with Thanksgiving dinner. They include: cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, stuffing and (of course) turkey! But those can get to be a little humdrum year after year.

This year, why not give your Thanksgiving dinner a Texas twist? There are so many different ways to make classic dishes. Here are some ways you can show your love for the Lone Star State as you prepare for a big sit-down with family.

Classic Item: Oven-roasted Turkey

Texas Twist: SMOKED Turkey (via The Domestic Man)

Ask any Texan and they’ll tell you that their state makes the best barbecue in the country! Well that smoker isn’t just for brisket and ribs, you know? You can actually smoke an entire turkey too. Not only does smoking give the bird a rich and full flavor, but it’ll also free up some precious oven space for your delicious side dishes.

Classic Item: Green Bean Casserole

Texas Twist: SOUTHWEST Green Bean Casserole (via HEB)

As the slogan says, “you can’t spell Texas without H-E-B.” Though we’ll grant them poetic license on that one, the Texas-based supermarket chain really does know a thing or two about Texas cuisine and this twist on the classic Thanksgiving favorite is living proof.

Classic Item: Butternut Squash Soup

Texas Twist: Butternut Squash Soup with CHILI-SPICED PECANS and Pumpkin Seeds (via CBS)

Many a Texas native has some fond childhood memories about picking pecans. The official “state health nut” adds rich flavor and a little crunch to any dish. The chili-spiced variety used in this yummy soup gives it a little extra kick as well!

Classic Item: Mashed Potatoes

Texas Twist: Chipotle Smashed Sweet Potatoes (via MyRecipes)

These potatoes are as sweet as some good Southern hospitality but with the feisty spirit of a Texan.  Chipotle peppers give this dish a little extra zing that’s sure to wake anyone from their tryptophan coma.

Classic Item: Stuffing

Texas Twist: Momma’s CORNBREAD DRESSING (via AllRecipes)

Whether you call it “stuffing” or “dressing,” there’s really no debating that this Thanksgiving must-have is just plain GOOD! This version gets its base from a Texas favorite: cornbread.

This Thanksgiving feast is sure to have your family shouting “Yee haw!” You’re going to need a good hearty meal before you head to Bel Furniture’s Black Friday sale at 5 a.m. on Nov. 29! The leftovers from these recipes will make the perfect pre-shopping treat!

Halloween Home Décor 2013

When it comes to home décor, Halloween can be a bit of a challenge. You want to celebrate the occasion, but without going overboard. Bright orange plastic pumpkins may be great for your kids’ bedrooms or out on your front step, but what about your living room or dining room? You want to keep things elegant and sophisticated in these spaces. You've worked hard to achieve a certain ambiance and color scheme. You can still make things spooky while coordinating with your everyday décor.

Here are some photos and ideas for inspiration.

 Candles, skulls and forest imagery:

[photo credit: http://bit.ly/19sxzPw]

While we often associate candles with romance, they can also serve to create a bone-chilling effect. They are reminiscent of a witch’s house or a vampire’s lair. The right candle holders - like these, made to look like tree trunks - will also help bring about the Halloween spirit. A picture of bare-bones trees and a subtle skull element complete the look.

Gourds of another name:

[photo credit: http://bit.ly/1aEC6ML]

While orange pumpkins may be the norm at Halloween, don’t forget they come in other colors - and shapes! Dress up your dining room table with an assortment of gourds and a few votives scattered throughout. This look does double duty too! This theme can be easily carried over into November as it works for Thanksgiving décor as well.

Fancy your fireplace:

[photo credit: http://bit.ly/1797e9A]

Jack-o-lanterns don’t always have to have faces. This super-chic fireplace decoration uses carved pumpkins to create the effect of a roaring fire. Muted orange candles help complete the look while keeping in step with the color scheme.

An homage to spooky literature:

[photo credit: http://bit.ly/16qRQXM]

The holiday has inspired scores of literature and film throughout the years. Why not choose a theme based on that, like this mantle inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s The Raven. You’ll be searching for the perfect Halloween décor “nevermore.”

Decorating for Halloween doesn't mean you have to turn your more formal spaces into child’s play. There are plenty of simple, elegant ways to dress up your house for the occasion without interrupting the usual feel of a room!

Great Family Costumes for Halloween 2013

October is here and before you know it, Halloween will be too! Whether you have a party to attend, or plan on trick-or-treating as a group, there are some great ways to dress up as a family. Besides making you the talk of the town, dressing up together will help you keep your troops wrangled for a fun and safe Halloween.

Check out these great suggestions for family costumes. And no excuses, Mom and Dad, these have options for all ages!

The Toy Story Gang

(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/GLqxes)

This modern classic Pixar film has a lot of character possibilities. The theme can really be used for any size family! The family in the picture chose Woody, Jessie, Bo Peep, her sheep and Mr. Potato Head. Some other options to consider are T-Rex, Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog, Etch-a-Sketch, Barbie and the Army Men. Just make sure you all hold still when Andy shows up!

Angry Birds

(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/GKZKjt)

You’re already addicted to the game – you may as well make it known to the public. This bright and colorful costume idea will work for family members of all sizes. You might even consider teaming up with a rival family, who can dress up as those pesky pigs. 

The Laundry

(Photo credit: http://huff.to/1fI3kdn)

Milk and Cookies

(Photo credit: http://huff.to/1fI3kdn)

Why not dress up like one of America’s favorite families? Get creative with your cookie choice here. You could all be chocolate chip, Oreos or maybe Teddy Grahams. If you can’t decide, go as an assortment. Everyone loves to have options!

BLT Sandwich

(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/QCziXA)

A sandwich is only as good as its parts. Mom and Dad are what hold this BLT together. If you’ve got an extra little one in your family, perhaps you’ll be more in the mood for a BLT with cheese this year!

Got some more great family costume ideas? We’d love to hear from you!

A Fresh Back-to-School Look

THE PERFECT TRIO

A new class of sophisticated and stylish room sets and accessories has arrived at Bel Furniture. Get into the academic swing of things once again with inspiring and comfortable home décor. Whether you're a proud parent or a first-time college student moving into a new apartment or dormitory suite, you'll love our new selections, perfect for the ambitious and studious.

FYE

Everyone deserves a study break now and then. Luckily, our newest entertainment center is your one-stop-shop for your latest Netflix guilty pleasure, motivating playlists, and embarrassing Wii games. Relax before hitting those books. With shelves, piers, and drawers in a rich cherry finish, this center can accommodate a 58" television. Save on inventory likes this and more during our upcoming Labor Day Sale! 

SNACK TIME

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, our newest dinette set comes with a cushioned bench the kids will love. We recommend this for the kitchen nook, or for smaller apartment spaces. What better accessory to go with the first cup of coffee than a table in an espresso finish? Six pieces in total, this set is durable, elegant, light-weight, and easy to transport as you progress as a student, from college to graduate school.

THE STUDY COUCH

Sitting at a cramped desk under the harsh lamplight can be a bore. Change up your routine and invigorate those study habits with a brand new couch. Our latest addition is comfortable and soft. It comes in brown, bonded leather. Take your pick: sofa, chair, or loveseat. Remember, you can save big on this set and more during our upcoming Labor Day Sale. 

Visit our website and Facebook page for more details!

                                                                               

Our Top Five Reasons to Love Bruno Mars

1. He has a fabulous voice.

               Who doesn’t love to hear the sweet, feel-good sound of Bruno’s voice wafting through the car radio? Even if you’re not a diehard fan, Bruno sings songs that are memorable, upbeat, and extra fun.

2. He has great hair.

               Not everyone can rock a pompadour like Bruno. Maybe it’s because he has a natural confidence that shines through on and off-stage… Hmm!

3. He’s stylish.

               Bruno’s love of the music of the 70s and 80s comes through in his colorful, but sleek wardrobe. Cool is just something Bruno is good at!

4. He’s happy to share his musical influences.

               Every great performer has a list of people that influenced them, and Bruno’s not shy to share. We love that he lets us in on his musical thought-process, telling us about his top favorites like Prince, Michael Jackson, The Police and even Little Richard!

5. He’s having a concert very soon and you could be there, too!

ENTER OUR FACEBOOK PHOTO CONTEST TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO BRUNO'S AUG. 15TH SHOW!

The Sooner You Enter the Contest, the Better Your Chances:

Like our last Facebook contest, the Just the Way You Are contest winner will be determined by the total number of votes. Simply put, the photo submission with the most votes, wins the two tickets to the show. So, the sooner you enter, the more time your friends and family members have to vote for you. If you decide to enter directly through Instagram or Twitter using hashtag, #sweetbel, keep in mind that we still need to have your email address, so we can contact you easily in the event of your sweet victory.

Scan the QR code above, or enter our contest here!

You're Amazing, Bruno Mars

ENTER OUR FACEBOOK PHOTO CONTEST TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO BRUNO'S AUG. 15TH SHOW!

Little Known Facts about Bruno Mars:

1. Bruno's real name is Peter Gene Bayot Hernandez; when he was a child his family called him "Little Elvis".
2. While growing up in Hawaii (he was born in Waikiki), Bruno was very popular with the girls, who used to say he was "out of this world." This adoration would later inspire the second half of his stage name. "Bruno" comes from Bruno Samartino, a chubby wrestler he admired when he was a kid.
3. Bruno has said in many interviews that he was heavily influenced by Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson growing up. 
4. What's the dish on Bruno's favorite meal? Well, he loves Chicken Adobo, the national cuisine of the Philippines. 
5. Bruno's favorite song from his collection is "Count on Me."

The Sooner You Enter the Contest, the Better Your Chances:

Like our last Facebook contest, the Just the Way You Are contest winner will be determined by the total number of votes. Simply put, the photo submission with the most votes, wins the two tickets to the show. So, the sooner you enter, the more time your friends and family members have to vote for you. If you decide to enter directly through Instagram or Twitter using hashtag, #sweetbel, keep in mind that we still need to have your email address, so we can contact you easily in the event of your sweet victory. 

Scan the QR code above, or enter our contest here:  http://bit.ly/146qvrV

Love Bruno Mars?

ENTER OUR FACEBOOK PHOTO CONTEST TO WIN A  PAIR OF TICKETS TO HIS AUG. 15TH SHOW!

How to Enter:

Step 1 - Go to our Facebook page and click on the tab that says "CONTEST" at the top of the timeline. Or, simply click here to go directly to the entry page!

Step 2 - Once you've liked Bel Furniture, upload a picture of you and your sweetheart (or best friend or family member) holding up a poster that tells us what you love the most about each other. Make sure fans can see your faces and the words written on the poster.

*Alternative Way to Submit*  Upload a photo on your Instagram OR Twitter and use the hashtag, #sweetbel. Your photo will be automatically entered. Be sure to provide us with your email address as required by the entry form.

Step 3 - Complete all required fields on the entry form and submit! 

Step 4 - Ask friends and family members to go to the "View Entries" page and vote for your photo. 

The Entry with the Most Votes Wins!