As autumn approaches, so does decorating with fall fruit. You've seen the mini-pumpkin mantel displays, the gourd centerpieces and the wheat and foliage wreaths.

You have probably also been privy to the expensive "faux" fruit decor being sold: the glittery pears and apples in crystal bowls or stuck to wreaths, sometimes interspersed throughout topiaries.

How about combining all of these wonderful fall fruit decorating ideas with a unique twist?Real apples, not sparkly ones. A simple glass bowl. A pillar candle. That is all you'll need to recreate Better Homes and Gardens' centerpiece.

So I set out to do just that.

After tearing apart my dining room, looking for my glass trifle bowl, I remembered that it was the one casualty in our move two years ago. I made a note to myself that I am not making enough trifle, then I found my very cool basket weave dinner roll dish.

I added my fresh apples, a seasonal pear candle I had and even some dried lavender. I like my results, and I love that this idea is something so easy, so versatile, and so . . . free.

So hit the orchards this fall and create your own!