Winter Squash?

No, your eyes are not deceiving you.  I took these pictures on January 3, 2012.  I keep seeing posts about people wondering how to decorate for Winter once they take down their holiday decor.  I say "decorate with pumpkins and gourds!"  Well, not really.  Why can't I part with these little guys?  They have been sitting quietly in their bowl in a somewhat hidden kitchen counter-top location, minding their business as the hub-bub of the holidays have come and gone.  Possibly feeling a little heartache and resentment toward the evergreen cuttings that have taken residence in their place for the past month.

So, a little experiment . . .

Well, it's a nice contrast but something just doesn't look right.  I guess our minds tell us that pumpkins and evergreen don't mix.  (I feel like I'm giving a public service announcement).  

So, what should I do with these buggers?  I can't throw them out just yet.  One gourd did dry out on its own which makes me want to dry the other ones out by some means.  I'll have to look into this.

In the meantime, a question.  When do you de-decorate for the holidays?  When do you undo all you did for Christmas?  My grandmother used to say that the tree and decorations stay up till the "Wise men reach Bethlehem".  I can't remember if that's a Tuesday or a Thursday. ;-)  (kidding)

As of now, everything is still up indoors and out and as you can see, even Autumn items are lingering.  What is socially responsible?  Perhaps I'll at least unplug the timer for the topiary lights outdoors.  "SIGH"