Oak Rise Cottage

Holly Motif on Holiday Dishes

2011-12-13T22:08:00.006-05:00

The teacup for this week is the vintage "Holly" by Lefton.

Stickers on bottom of saucer and cup read Lepton and Japan

The holly motif is sculpted on the cup and saucer

The Lefton “Holly” pattern has many pieces, from plates to candleholders. This includes reindeer as seen below. A matching sleigh is also available.

If you would like to survey various holiday china patterns available now, here is a nice online review of china with a holly berry motif:
http://www.squidoo.com/christmas-holly-china#module68813781

The Christmas book for today is The Holly and the Ivy: A Celebration of Christmas by Barbara Segall. Clarkson Potter Publishers, 1991. The book is filled with historical tidbits about various Christmas customs, including the use of holly and ivy in holiday decorations.

The front cover has shiny lettering and little prints that look like stickers. There is also a real tartan ribbon wrapped around the front edge of the book.

I am linking today’s post to:

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.

Tea Party Tuesday hosted by Trisha at Sweetology.

Embrace The Season Christmas Tea
hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Tuesday Cuppa Teahosted by Ruth
at Antiques and Teacups.

Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog.

Flaunt It Fridayhosted by Kate at Chic on a Shoestring.

Holiday Teacup

2011-12-06T14:10:00.005-05:00

The teacup I’m sharing this week is in the Lenox "Holiday" pattern, which is my formal Christmas china. The design features green holly leaves with red berries on an ivory porcelain base. This pattern came out in 1974 and it has become a perennial favorite among traditional designs.

This book is part of the series Tiny Tea, published by Blue Cottage Gifts, a devision of Multnomah Publishers, Inc. in Sisters, Oregon. Note the holly decoration on the cup and in the greenery.

The small gift book consists of a lovely poem expressing joy in the season and wishing friends warmth and love. The book ends with this wonderful quotation:

“I have not stopped
giving thanks for you,
remembering you in my prayers.”
Ephesians 1:16 NIV

May we each think often of our friends and loved ones during this festive season. And may we be ever in prayer for God’s blessing in their lives.

I am linking today’s post to:

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.

Embrace The Season Christmas Tea hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Tuesday Cuppa Teahosted by Ruth
at Antiques and Teacups.

Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog.

Flaunt It Fridayhosted by Kate at Chic on a Shoestring.

A New Tree for Teacups

2011-11-28T22:06:00.013-05:00

I have been gathering a number of ornaments, which are suitable for a tea-themed tree. On Black Friday I ordered an artificial pre-lit pine tree from Kohls.com. While awaiting its arrival in the mail, I decided to do a test-run using one of two small faux trees I have. Alas, the tree is too flimsy to bear the weight of the ornaments, which are mostly ceramic. I had to put it up against the hutch so it would not tip over! Nevertheless, it still gives me a dry run for decorating my new tea tree.

The tree is set in a silver urn, with two doilies wrapped around it to help keep it upright. I also placed three teacup-shaped tea bag rests around the bottom of the tree to help prop it up.

To add sparkle I decided to use some Princess House crystal angel ornaments and a tiny spun glass tree. The tea tree is in the Kitchen, which is decorated in a Christmas tree theme.

I am also using small-scale teacups such as this one by Royal Copenhagen:

I have a variety of additional tea ornaments to add. There is the Spode "Christmas Tree" which was a must-have since that is one of my Christmas dish patterns.

Then there is a teapot and cup and saucer in the Lenox "Holiday" pattern, my more formal holiday china.

I will also include a silverplate tea spoon with figural teapot handle, and a gilt tea spoon with figural teapot handle.
To add to the sparkle, I am also thinking of adding a couple teardrop ornaments from JoAnn from Santa’s Workshop, and a few crystal prisms:

I will also be decorating the tree with a dozen small glass balls, found at a local consignment shop. They are clear glass with iridescent finish.

For the treetop, I’ve selected a vintage angel tree topper. The wings and halo are sparked with glitter. The bottom of her robe is banded in white cotton. The body is white plastic and glows when a light is inserted.

I’m looking forward to receiving my tree so I can set up my tea-themed tree. Have you ever done a tree with teacups and teapots as the theme?

I am linking today’s post to:
Deck the Hall Sunday, hosted by Terri at Artful Affirmations
Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.
Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.
Tea Party Tuesday hosted by Trisha at Sweetology.
Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.
Tuesday Cuppa Tea hosted by Ruth at Antiques and Teacups.

Flaunt It Friday hosted by Kate at Chic on a Shoestring Decorating.

Show and Tell Friday hosted by Cindy at My Romantic Home.

Home for the Holidays hosted on Fridays by Carrie at The Corson Cottage

A Cup of Christmas Tea & A Memory of Christmas Tea

2011-11-22T00:38:00.009-05:00

This week I’d again like to share one of the inspirational books that I reach for during the Christmas season. A Cup of Christmas Tea by Tom Hegg, illustrated by Warren Hanson. Waldman House Press Inc. c1982.

According to Publishers Weekly "in its first edition, published in 1982, the book sold more than 1.5 million copies."

The mini version is an ornament book 3 ½ inches tall by 2 5/8 inches wide, with gilt cord for hanging and red ribbon bookmark.

The sequel was published some years later:
A Memory of Christmas Tea by Tom Hegg, illustrated by Warren Hanson. Waldman House Press Inc. c1999.

These two books are available in gift book edition, edition with both titles together, ans also in Audiobook on CD as well as Audiobook on cassette.

Other lovely merchandise based on the lovely teacup theme has followed:
"A Cup of Christmas Tea" Regular Size Teacup

"A Cup of Christmas Tea" is written inside the bone china cup and saucer and it is decorated with holly, and trimmed in gold.

The bottom of the cup and the saucer read: "A Cup of Christmas Tea copyright 1995 Waldman House Press, Inc. by Tom Hegg, Illustrated by Warren Hansen."

"Cup of Christmas Tea" Bone China Miniature Tea Set of 10 pieces –teapot, sugar and creamer two cups and saucers. Each has the holly decoration of the larger sized pieces.

"A Cup of Christmas Tea" 1999 Bone China Christmas Ornament. The ornament consists of a teapot pouring into a teacup.

Following is a list of additional items that are available in this pattern.
Teapot
Sugar and Creamer set
Tea caddy
Dinner plate, bread butter plate,
Cookie plate 8"
Cake Plate 10.5"
24k goldplated spoon
Coasters
Pair Candlesticks 6"
Single candlestick
Oval basket
Hurricane lamp
Candle lamp
Tealight holders
Desk clock

Tom Hegg's story about the special teacup and the response it evokes, has been so well received over the years, that it continues in print and continues as a favorite for gift giving.

I am linking today’s post to:
Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.
Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.
Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.
Tea Party Tuesday hosted by Trisha at Sweetology.
Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Tuesday Cuppa Tea hosted by Ruth at Antiques and Teacups.

Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog.

Flaunt It Fridayhosted by Kate at Chic on a Shoestring.

Christmas Teas and Tea Cup

2011-11-15T17:43:00.009-05:00

With the Christmas holidays getting nearer and nearer, I thought I’d share one of the inspirational books that I reach for during the Christmas season. There are so many colorful books with photos and ideas to make your celebration beautiful and meaningful. On such book is The Twelve Teas of Christmas: Sharing the Season With Those You Love by Emilie Barnes.

The book is illustrated with lovely paintings by Sandy Lynam Clough. The cover illustration shows a tea setting in Sandy’s richly detailed, elegant style, with china, linen, candles, and cookies.

The twelve teas each celebrates a different theme which contributes to the wonder and richness of the Christmas season – friendship, family, joy, warmth, sharing, merriment, peace, Dreams, tradition, giving creation, and stillness. Each of the twelve chapters presents suggestions for menus with recipes, décor ideas, organization and homekeeping tasks, along with tidbits of history, customs and lore about tea and Christmas.
The teacup I’m sharing this week is another$3.00 thrift store bargain. It is Royal Albert white bone china decorated with holly leaves, the "Yuletide" pattern.

As with other Royal Albert patterns this teacup has a graceful shape, including a lovely handle.

The saucer’s rim is gently curved and edged in gilt, following the same lines of the cup rim.

Together cup and saucer make a lovely set. Don’t you just enjoy Royal Albert? It always provides distinction for our settings, and this is especially wonderful during the Christmastide.

I am linking today’s post to:

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen with Wanda Lee.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.

Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology.

Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog.

Thrifty Thursday with Leigh at Tales From Bloggeritaville.

ERII Commemoratives, Part 2

2011-10-28T00:01:00.002-04:00

As the bath is en suite with the bedroom, where I have light blue Wedgewood jasperware collection on display, I also carried on the Wedgwood into the bath. There they are as part of my Royal Rose Collection in honor of Diana Princess of Wales.

Just inside the door is a display in honor of Queen Elizabeth II which I shared here.
On the opposite wall from that is another Wedgwood item relating to the Queen. The top plate depicts a cameo of the Queen, while the bottom one is of London.

The adjacent wall also has another Wedgwood plate, this one depicting cupids. The plate above is a Lladro from Spain.
First is the light blue and white Wedgwood jasperware silver jubilee plate. The inscription is “1952 Silver Jubilee 1977/ Queen Elizabeth II.”

The London plate is decorated with famous landmark buildings all around the plate. Right at the top center is Buckingham Palace, London residence of the Queen:

I am linking to the following weekly events. Please visit these hostesses for more posts:
Show and Tell Friday at Cindy’s My Romantic Home.

Also linking to Flaunt It Friday at Chic on a Shoestring Decorating.

Royal Commemoratives: ERII

2011-10-25T20:26:00.016-04:00

Often in visiting other blogs we are reminded of something which we might share for our weekly blog events. For some weeks now, Miss Kathy at The Writers Reverie has been sharing her antique royal commemoratives, and it reminded my of my collection of British royal commemorative items.

For today’s post I am sharing some commemorative items relating to Queen Elizabeth II. All items were made in England and they include items that are now vintage since they span her many decades long reign.

These items are all displayed on a small two-shelf unit just inside my bathroom.

This is the top shelf with a small plate commemorating the coronation in 1953, a framed postcard portrait, and a cup and saucer celebrating the coronation:

This is the bottom shelf, with another vintage teacup and saucer, and a lovely mug:

This bone china coronation teacup and saucer was made by Rosina. The design on the front has a beautiful emblem with a cameo portrait of the queen and royal mottoes.

The back illustration reads "Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II June 22nd 1953". (Sorry the photo is not clear.)

The teacup has fluting all around and its lovely slim handle curves into a point.

The saucer repeats the illustrations from the cup and has a graceful scalloped edge outlined in gold.

A second coronation commemorative teacup and saucer is by Adderley and it is also of bone china. The front shows the royal shield with a cameo portrait of Elizabeth II:

The back illustration is of the cipher "ERII"

The saucer repeats the two graphics from the cup. It is edged in shallow scallops and gilt-edged:

Next is a small plate commemorating the 1953 coronation. I got this at a flea market where I pointed to a dish drainer full of various dishes and called out to the owner as to how much they were. He said "50 cents each." So I picked out this lovely 5-inch plate by Alfred Meakin:

The inscription under the flags around the plate states, "Crowned June 2nd, 1953." Under her photo it reads, "She Reigns."

Here is the vintage postcard of the young beauty, in a stunning portrait by distinguished photographer, Dorothy Wilding in 1952. I framed it in a gilt metal frame from a thrift shop:

An earlier black and white photograph shows young bride Princess Elizabeth with groom Philip, Duke of Edinburg in November 1947.

More recent commemoratives celebrate her silver jubilee in 1977. On the back of this small plate is inscribed 1977/ The Queen’s Silver Jubilee" and "Pride of Britain/ Silver Jubilee Souvenir/ Produced by/ Wood & Sons/ England/ Potters for 100 years.

Also for the silver jubilee is a bone china mug by Ashley.

Next is a deep blue with white Wedgwood jasperware small dish. It depicts the Queen in profile with a banner reading "1957 Silver Jubilee 1977"

For her diamond jubilee in 2002 I have a small covered box with her portrait. The box is white banded in blue with gilt garlands. Inside her portrait is repeated. The bottom inscription reads: "the queen’s Golden Jubilee 2002/ Edwardian/ Fine Bone China/ Made in England:

I am linking today’s post to:
Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .
Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.
Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.
Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology.
Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.
Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Lady Katherine at Lady Katherine Tea Parlor
Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog.
Vintage Thingie Thursday with Suzanne at Coloradolady.
Thrifty Thursday with Leigh at Tales From Bloggeritaville.

Royal Sealy in Fall Colors

2011-10-17T21:23:00.011-04:00

After visiting the thrift store where I found the Paragon cup and saucer, I went to the hospital guild thrift shop where I spotted another yellow cup and saucer. It was marked $3.00, but I asked if I could have it for $2 and the sales lady graciously agreed!

This is a vintage set made by Royal Sealy of Japan. It has a luster finish and its floral pattern is done in browns and yellows, just right for this time of year.

Here is a mosiac showing some of its features:

The teacup rests on a pedestal stand, and the entire outside is embellished with blooms:

The saucer is also patterned with flowers and the edging is pierced all around:

The inside of the cup is decorated by a single floral motif:

The cup handle is intricately formed and is edged in gold, as are the rims of the cup and saucer.

This cup would grace a fall tea table quite nicely.

I am linking today’s post to:

Mosaic Monday with Mary at Little Red House.

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse and at Breath of Fresh Air.

Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology.

Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Lady Katherine at Lady Katherine Tea Parlor

Black and White Setting

2011-10-06T00:01:00.003-04:00

Although we’re into fall now I still have not taken out my fall things; so today’s table setting is in black and white with green highlights. I wanted something fairly cool and serene, yet with a bit of dramatic contrast.
The linens consist of one Waverly "Country Life" Toile in black on cream runner with black tassel at each end, and four Waverly "Country Life" Toile in black on cream oval placemats with striped fabric on reverse. The napkins are white with a black scroll design.

The black and white theme started with the Royal Stafford checked bowls. They are set on Bordallo Pinheiro "Cabbage"dessert plates, which in turn rest on vintage cream Wedgwood Etruria "Edme" dinner plates. The silverplated flatware is the 1941 vintage Holmes and Edwards "Youth."

To go along with the clean looks of black on white I decided on clear glass accessories. Three pairs of clear crystal candlesticks with green taper candles, and two tulip shaped votives with green votives form the centerpiece with green hydrangeas from a previous table setting.

Next are four Durand "Vendange" goblets and four vintage footed glasses in etched crystal w black/ amethyst base.

A set of four crystal salt cellars and tiny spoons add more sparkle:

A pressed glass butter dish and "Youth" butter knife rest on a doily on a shell-shaped black glass dinner plate.

Four fabric napkin rings in the Waverly "Country Life" toile are supplemented by rectangular silverplated napkin rings.

The full place setting

I am joining

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch ,where we can enjoy more Tablescape Thursday posts.

Suzanne with Vintage Thingies Thursday at Coloradolady.

Cindy’s Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home.

Paragon At Last

2011-10-04T00:02:00.004-04:00

In all my purchases I hadn’t bought any teacups by Paragon either for myself or for one of my sisters who collects cabinet teacups (that is, elegant cups and saucer sets suitable for display in a cabinet). Most of Paragon cups are on the expensive side, and while they are readily available for purchase at full or perhaps even discount prices, for myself I’m just adding teacups and saucers found as downright bargains.
At the three thrift shops in town I always stop to look at the teacups. After clarifying that the cups were all priced at $3.00 each I started to review them. A pretty gilded yellow and white one caught my eye. Imagine my surprise when I turned it over and saw the mark for "Paragon Fine/ Bone China/ England Reg’d"
The mark on the bottom of the cup includes the Royal Warrant coat of arms and statement, "By Appointment/To Her/ Majesty The Queen/ China Potters" (Sorry my photo is so poor)

As many designs by Paragon, the saucer is decorated overall with a pleasing pattern:

The teacup has parts of the pattern on the outside of the cup and on the inside as well.

The cup and saucer are edged in gold, besides the elaborate gilt decoration that distinguishes this pattern:

Lately the shop staff have been rather overwhelmed with donations, so that the shop is overflowing with all sorts of merchandise. I have been seeing people coming in with multiple boxes stuffed with things of all sorts and quaality. Usually books are 50 cents for hardcover and 25 cents for paperback. However, they have so many that week before last Thursday, Friday and Saturday they had all books free! Sadly, as it happened, I didn't go in on any of those days.

Hopefully, I will find more lovely teacups to add to my and my sister’s collections.
I am linking today’s post to:

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse.

Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology.

Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Bargains in Blue and White

2011-10-03T00:41:00.008-04:00

I like my covered dishes and they always catch my eye when I’m out thrifting. Week before last I stopped in to one of my local thrift shops and quickly spotted this blue and white covered dish. I took it down and was surprised to see the price – all of $2.00

Than I saw that it has a small chip right on the inside lip of the dish, just where the cover rests. The piece was rattling around in the bottom.

I decided it would make a good display piece or floral container or storage bin of some sort.. and ehh…I have plenty of serving dishes suitable for table service!

A couple days later I was in the shop again and saw three matching blue and white pieces, unpriced. Upon inquiry I was told $3.00 for the set. Included is a small teapot and lid, sugar and lid and creamer. The sugar has a small chip to the inside, on the edge where the lid rests.

So now I have a charming blue and white suite for display.

With the addition of a blue and white French style jug by Godinger (found at TX Maxx) and a couple navy bound books, and two covered pumpkins,
I have a nice shabby chic fall tabletop vignette for a corner of the bedroom.

I am linking today’s post to
Blue Monday at Smiling Sally.

Mosaic Monday with Mary at Little Red House.

Show Off Your Cottage Monday with Cielo at The House in the Roses.

Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .

Thrifted Tuscan Tray and Great Buys At One King Lane

2011-09-30T13:53:00.010-04:00

Lately my visits to local thrift stores have paid off quite nicely. I’ve found some great buys on home décor and tea items. I’m sharing one of these items for Show and Tell Friday at Cindy’s My Romantic Home.
This large tray is a dark red color and is a good size – it is 18 inches across both ways. The handles make it easy to carry. I saw it on top of a box full of items, and asked the clerk the price. Her answer, $3.00!

Flipping it over, I read the label which said, "Made in Italy." At home I saw that it was imprinted on the back with the word "Lenox." The little pasted-on printed tag states, "Winter Garden/ Wood Round tray/ Made in Italy" and the manufacturer’s price $86.00!

I like the subtle red which makes it useful at Christmas time as well as other times of the year. The design has a Tuscan style, a very appealing and popular decorative trend nowadays. It makes me want to look at décor books celebrating the flair evocative of that region. Also, lately I’ve been finding many sources for online bargains for books I love to add to my personal library. Books like Villas of Tuscany, a photo-filled survey of beautiful homes in that region of Italy.

The latest such source is One Kings Lane, which one can join for free and then enjoy the daily and weekly bargains. For example, today Friday September 30, 2011, a nice selection of coffee table books from Abrams publishing house are being offered. The prices are all marked down from the original.

Here are just a few that caught my eye:

Take a look at One Kings Lane and you may find a book, decorative accessory, or home furnishing that fits your taste and pocketbook.

Also linking to Flaunt It Friday at Chic on a Shoestring Decorating.

Addition to Blue and White Teacup Collection

2011-09-26T19:11:00.015-04:00

I haven’t been acquiring many blue and white teacups lately since my display storage is chock full. There just hasn’t been time to work on re-arranging the hutch for a more attractive display and maybe room for just one or two more cups and saucers.

The vintage teacup I’m sharing today is white with a cobalt blue and light blue pattern embellished with gold trim.

The mark is in green -- a W topped by a crown. I have no idea what the name of the maker might be. If anyone knows or has a guess, I would appreciate hearing from you.

UPDATE! Blogger Johanna from Germany has informed me that "The mark is German from Heinrich Winterling in Marktleuthen." She also provided the URL for the manufacturer's marks: http://www.porzellan-indischblau.de/marken/winterling1.htm

Thank you, Johanna. If you've not visited her blog, Silber + Rosen [Silver and Roses], you must do so. I spent over an hour perusing her blog and book website, and bookmarked several posts to return with comments.

The inside of the cup has the same pattern as the saucer

The sides of the cup is gently sculpted and has gilt decoration.

The foot of the cup is curved white with four gilt stripes.

The cup handle has gentle curves harmonizing with the overall design;

I am quite delighted to add this set to my blue and white teacup collection!

I am linking today’s post to:

Blue Monday at Smiling Sally.

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Tea For Two Tuesday at the Plumed Pen.

Teapot And Tea Things Tuesday with Wanda Lee and Pam at The Silken Purse.

Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology.

Tea Time Tuesday hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.

Change Accomplished and Dessert Setting for Mother 93rd Birthday

2011-09-22T22:15:00.009-04:00

In my September 4 post I indicated that a great Craigslist find yielded and in-progress change. Well this past week I was able to complete that change.

The Drawer Chest was moved from the living room and is now in the dining room and is stocked with flatware and linens. I at last have a server in the dining room, plus easy access to table setting items. The two small top drawers hold sets of napkin rings:

The next drawer holds three sets of flatware:

Next is napkin storage.

And finally, the bottom drawer holds placemats. I still need to arrange these drawers so they are much neater!

The display on top of the drawer chest complements the dessert table setting for my mother’s 93rd birthday held at my house on Sunday. We ate at her favorite restaurant, then returned to my home for cake and ice cream. The Royal Albert “Lady Carlyle” teapot, sugar and creamer take center stage, while the teacups and saucers are displayed on a wire teacup stand.

The flowers are Rose of Sharon and Sedum Autumn Joy from my garden.

As you may recall, this tablesetting incorporates the china and linens from my pink tea setting on the living room coffee table shown here. My mother loves to wear pink on her birthday as well as Mother’s Day and she had on a lovely outfit in shades of pink. The setting turned out very dainty, as I used silver plate chargers and candlesticks with deep pink candles, gilt-edged flatware, Lenox "Autumn" goblets, and pinkish green hydrangeas from the garden.

The cake (which got smushed while transported in the car) was placed on a ruffled-edge Princess House Crystal cake stand. It was nice to have the drawer chest nearby so I did not have to keep it on the table once it was sliced.

Visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Metamorphosis Monday posts and for Tablescape Thursday. I am also linking to Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home with hostess Cindy.

Lady Carlyle Teacup Variants

2011-09-13T12:12:00.006-04:00

In my previous post the tea setting utilized Royal Worcester "Lady Carlyle" pattern porcelain. When I was collecting pieces in this set I noticed that not all my teacups and saucers were the same. Actually there were two interpretations of the Lady Carlyle pattern. A bit of online research and I found the names of the two variants.

The cup with the decorative band on the outside is in the "Malvern" shape, while the band on the outside is the "Avon" shape.

Which do you prefer – the Malvern or the Avon??

I am linking to Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations. Visit them for more lovely tea cups!

Pink and Roses Tea Setting

2011-09-08T17:46:00.007-04:00

Outside it is wet, wet, wet. I so wish I could use some pretty pink Rose of Sharon blossoms for todays tablescape, but it is really, really soggy outside.

Today’s setting was inspired yesterday as I ironed a set of pink and white place mats with matching doilies. They were an Ebay find from a couple years back. As soon as they arrived I soaked and washed them; but they remained unpressed in a drawer till I took them out yesterday.

They are handmade of pink cotton or linen with white tape lace in the Battenburg style. I thought such dainty linens needed some pretty pink china and settled on Royal Albert “Lady Carlyle.” I am using the teapot, creamer and sugar, cake plate, dessert and bread & butter plates, cups and saucers.

The living room coffee table is just large enough for this afternoon tea setting for two.

The place settings have a dessert plate topped by a doily, then by a bread and butter plate.

The dessert forks and teaspoons are from a gold set with embossed floral pattern, A pale pink napkin is held in a cherub napkin ring.

The teapot rests on a round pierced brass stand topped by another doily.

Note that both the linen and china are adorned with roses. There are tiny crocheted white roses as the center of the floral decoration around the edge of the placemats and doilies.
An off-white compote is for sweet treats, while the cake plate is for savories.

Accents include a tiny white procelain teapot with a pink bow:

Also, a porcelain ball decorated in white and pink:

Isn't this a pretty setting for a damp, wet day?

I am glad to join Tablescape Thursday again this week. Visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Tablescape Thursday posts.

I just learned about Teacup Thursday at Miss Spenser’s Blog. (Related to Miss Spenser’s Special Teas, a tearoom in of Des Moines, Iowa.) I’ll link to that event, as well as Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Sisters’ Birthday Teacups

2011-09-05T23:52:00.005-04:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.
Tea Party Tuesday is hosted by Trish at Sweetology. Please visit each of these lovely ladies for their fun Tuesday events.

I have three sisters and we have a sisters club, established in 2003 during the weekend celebration for our mother’s 85th birthday.

We gift each other throughout the year with a variety of lovely items, books, frames, tops, inspirational cards, tree ornaments, magazine subscription, etc. Most of the time the same gift is given to all four, though with some variety relating to each one’s favorite color (blue, purple, green and yellow) or some other personal preference.

One of the gifts I gave was the birthday month cup from Royal Albert’s Flower of the Month series. Each month has a beautiful flower gracing the teacup and saucer. My birthday was a couple week before last and here is my August cup and saucer: The flower is the Poppy:

One sister was born on Christmas Day so her cup is the December one, depicting the Christmas Rose.

I found full-size and miniature cups and saucers for both August and December:

I am still seeking the January (Snowdrops) and February(Violets) mini cups for my other two sisters.

Do you have a flower-of-the-month cup for your birthday month?

Sharing Books on Blue and White

2011-09-05T15:34:00.006-04:00

I haven’t posted to Sally’s Blue Monday for quite a while, so thought I’d squeeze in a short post today. While awaiting help to try fitting my new living room drawer chest in the dining room, I thought I would at least set up a quick vignette on my new piece of furniture. See yesterday’s post for information on this new item.
This blue and white vase has been used in my living room most of the time over the years since 1983 when I got new furniture and drapes for my apartment living room. The faux flowers are faded now, butSharing Books on Blue and White since the colors go with the drapes, I still use them. For a balanced composition I’m adding two glass pears made in Italy. I’ve had these for many years, having bought them at an Ethan Allen store in the 1990’s.

I then added some books by Alexandra Stoddard and one by Chris Casson Madden.

Then, I thought, "Ohh, wait…this is Blue Monday.!" So I pulled out some of my
books on décor with blues and whites and placed them with the vase and pears.

The first three books I got from my book club, Paperback Swap.com where you get to swap your unwanted books for those you want. I hve really enjoyed these books, especially Carolyne Roehm's title:

A Passion for Blue and White By Carolyne Roehm
The Blue and White Room by Mary Gilliatt
Blue and White Rooms for Your Home by Ann Rooney Heuer

The other two books are from my many books on blue and white, which include titles on blue and white china and pottery, and about which I will share another time.

Blue and White Living By Stephanie Hoppen
Decorating in Blue & White: Creative Ideas for the Home Decorator by Lynda Burgess

I am linking today’s post for Blue Monday at Smiling Sally.

I will also link to Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .

Fabulous Craigslist Find Yields In-Progress Change

2011-09-04T22:04:00.007-04:00

"This is a great buy…five people called about it!" So said the delivery man as he and a younger man brought in my new piece of furniture last Friday. On Monday I was looking through the furniture section of Craigslist.com and saw this listing (with this spelling):

"$60.00 Moheganoy 5 drawer desk. Very nice and clean. Has glass top and pull out writing shelf. Will deliver for small fee."

I emailed right away asking for the dimensions and for cost of delivery to my town. Tuesday came and went and no reply. On Wednesday I wrote again asking if it was still available and got the reply, yes, and shipping would be $40. I wrote again asking for the dimensions. You see, I was looking for a piece to serve as a small buffet in my dining room; I’m tired of serving from the nearby kitchen counter and or stove.
On Thursday I got the measurements, and I quote:

"42 inches wide,19 deep,34 high.like new condition,not a scratch.come take a look."

I called, said I wanted it, and set up delivery for the next day at 3 pm.
Meanwhile I had measured the space but it was just too small. [My dining room is just 11’ x 12’ and I have a large-scaled Drexel table and eight chairs, plus a large breakfront cabinet.] Now, when I spoke to him on the phone he had reiterated that it was is great condition, and worth at least $300. I could not let it go at such a great price -- $60 plus $40 was just $100 for a fine piece of mahagony furniture (even though I had only seen the following not too clear photos in the Craigslist ad.

Anyway, I cleared a space in the Living Room between two chairs in front of the windows. Previously, I had had this 22" round skirted table between the two chairs (Not having planned all this, I didn’t think to take pictures while the table was still in place in the living room.):

The doorbell rang about 1:20 pm (he had called to move up the delivery time) and there was a small truck with two men who brought in the "desk," all wrapped in quilted padding. Unwrapped, it looked brand new. The seller showed me the Century Furniture tag in the left top drawer.

I was amazed at the beauty and quality and newness of the piece. Also, that it would work perfectly as a serving piece in the dining room – if only I could make room somehow. Indeed it was not a desk at all, despite the slide out shelf! What exactly was the piece – a console, a chest of drawers….??? Here are some pics I took of the details, including the glass top shaped to the curves:

Here it is in place between the chairs:

Well, as someone who loves researching things, I soon got online to determine what the piece is designated as by the manufacturer. After some futile searching of the Century Furniture industries website, I finally found a store that listed and pictured my piece. Now I knew just what it is:

Century Furniture Living Room Drawer Chest 679-704, from their Traditional Classics collection. This is the catalog photo I found on a furniture store website: The Product Description read:
"Features chamfered corners with decorative fret overlays. The serpentine drawer fronts are trimmed in beaded molding and accented with brass drop-bail pulls. Pull-out tray at top provides additional display space."

Yes, this excellent piece would be perfect for my dining room.… As soon as my brother, nephew, or brother-in-law comes by here, I’ll try to squeeze it in. In the meantime, it looks nice in the living room --

As the seller indicated, the piece fits in and looks great with the other mahagony and cherry furniture in my living and dining rooms. Here is a mosaic I've made of the furniture in the two rooms.

I plan to store some flatware in the two smaller drawers, and place mats, napkinsas well. However, I have not put anything in it in case I do move it to the dining room. So this change is still very much in progress!

Visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Metamorphosis Monday posts.
Also, visit Mary at Little Red House to see the mosaics prepared by other participants, and Rhoda at Southern Hospitality for more Thrifty Treasures.

Shell Tablescape in Aqua and Cream

2011-08-25T00:01:00.003-04:00

I have been wanting to do a table setting based on a shell motif for a long time. What finally go me to do this table was finding a pair of tall candlesticks with shell motif in Home Goods last month, July 2011. My youngest sister and I were doing a quick run-thru the store when she spotted them and pointed them out to me. I snapped them up right away!

Back at home the following week, I shopped around the house for shell items to use and started to place things on the dining room table. The color scheme of natural colors, white and aqua came into focus with Metlox "Lotus" dinner plates in a bright aqua hue. Metlox is a California pottery, and I have long enjoyed California ceramics. The "Lotus" pattern is a lovely evocation of the flower. The plates sent me after pale blu- green woven place mats. To separate the aqua plate from the pale blue-green placemat I added crisp white chargers.

The first shell items are shell-shaped bowls from the J.C. Penney "Water" dinnerware.

For bread and butter plates I used the "Water" canape plates. A large "Water" serving bowl took its place at the edge of the table.

Next came Fitz and Floyd "Oceanea" items as accent pieces -- salt and pepper sets, open serving dishes, canape server plate and sauce boat.

Towle stainless flatware in the "English Shell" pattern and silverplate shell-shaped place card holders also contributed to the shell theme. Vintage silverplated butter spreaders were addded on each b&b plate.

Bright aqua napkins display ceramic shell napkin rings.

Pale Spanish Green Libbey goblets complete the setting.

The centerpiece consists of a crystal vase with hydrangeas from my garden. On either side is the tall candlestick. Three balls encrusted with shells contribute to the vignette.

I should mention that in taking the photos this evening I had to deal with somewhat drooping blooms (and some dust), since this table was set several days ago -- and was used for two family meals on two different days, one on Saturday and one on Monday. So the tablesetting is a bit ragged. I just couldn't seem to get around to taking photos.

Here are a couple shots taken when the flowers were fresher. As soon as my brother, who was visiting from New Hampshire, came into the dining room, he took out his cell phone and took photos. I pointed out the place card with his name so he took a closeup of his place setting!

I am glad to be joining the fabulous weekly blog event, Tablescape Thursday, graciously hosted by Susan. I haven’t been able to participate for the past few months, but am glad to join in this week. Visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Tablescape Thursday posts.

Resources:
Placemats: Light aqua woven, TJ Maxx 2008
Chargers: white lacquer - online, 2 years ago
Dinner Plates: Metlox Poppytrail "Lotus" in aqua, June 2011
Salad Plates: J C Penney "Water" canape plates
Glassware: Libbey Gibraltar goblets in Spanish Green – thrift shop find 2008
Flatware: Towle Supreme Stainless "English shell; vintage silverplate Butter Spreaders
Napkins: Marshalls, about 19 years ago
Napkin Rings: off-white ceramic shell design – Ebay
Salt and Pepper Shakers: Fitz and Floyd "Oceanea"
Shell motif Tall Candlesticks – Home Goods, July 2011
Ecru Pillar Candles: Walmart, August 2011
3 Shell Balls – Walmart, summer 2009
Shells: various sources over the years
Silverplate shell Place Card Holders – have had for several years

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T16:41:00.003-05:00

This New Year’s Eve I wish to

thank all my blogger friends

for your inspiration and good will thoughout 2010

All my best wishes to you for a prosperous and Happy New Year!

Holiday Tablesetting

2010-12-23T00:01:00.002-05:00

Well, this is nearly the last Thursday of 2010, and I am glad to participate in Tablescape Thursday, ably hosted by Susan at Between Naps on the Porch. I have been so presed for time that I have not been able to post since before Thanksgiving.

As I do every year, I took out my Lenox “Holiday” china and the coordinating “Holiday” linens to set the dining room table for the Christmas holidays.

The place settings are framed by graceful chargers and gold flatware embossed with a floral motif. At the end place settings the napkin is placed across the bowl. The napkin ring is also Lenox “Holiday.”

I also used the clear stemmed green goblets to pick up the green in the holly trimmed plates.

The centerpiece is a crystal nativity set elevated slightly, and then surrounded with gold and silver beaded garlands and green ribbon and green glass ornaments.

On each side is a silver plated candlestick with gold candles and holly rings.

I usually use the Lenox "China Jewels" nativity set, but decided on the Gorham lead crystal set since it was easily retrieved from the curio cabinet. The China Jewels set is packed away in many boxes, and I did not have the energy for so much unwrapping. See the post in my nativity gallery blog for more about the Gorham nativity set.

The place settings at the side feature cream soup bowls and stands and napkins on the side, while the settings on the two ends have rimmed soup bowls, and napkins on top.

Dessert plates are at hand at the edge of the table:

Please visit Susan Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for links to many more festive holiday tablescapes, and to join in this beautiful weekly blog event.

Holiday Teacup and Saucer

2010-12-21T14:14:00.003-05:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

My teacup today is part of the dining room room table setting which features the Lenox “Holiday” pattern. I enjoy the cream color with holly in subtle green and red. Also, the gold embellishement.

Both sides of the cup have the sprig of holly design.

I'm also linking to Lady Tea Time Tuesday at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.

A second Tea Time Tuesday, is hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage

Thank you for stopping by today. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Teacup Tuesday – Pink Beleek

2010-11-16T00:01:00.003-05:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

Last week I shared a soft yellow Beleek cup and saucer. This week it is a pale pink set.
I’ve placed today’s teacup and saucer on a pink crystal platter, which I received as a gift back in summer 1988. It is made by Mikasa and is the "Rosella" pattern.

Like last week’s cup, this one is also shell-shaped. It is Beleek’s "Neptune" pattern, Made in Ireland.

Notice the shape of the saucer and of the footed cup. The handle looks like pink coral.

Note the tiny shell feet on the cup bottom.

Also linking to Tea Time Tuesday at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.

A second Tea Time Tuesday, is hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage

Thank you for stopping by today. Please visit our hostesses at the links above. Please leave a comment and do come again soon.

Metamorphosis Monday – White Dish Display

2010-11-15T17:07:00.006-05:00

A few days ago I decided to make room to display more of my white dishes. I have them already on a plate stand to the left of the sink, but wanted to display more.

A few white items were seen in the photo below, set atop the bookcase I use as a partial panty.

Taking a three-shelf wall unit from a local thrift shop, I doubled the space for my white dishes.

First I cleared the top of the bookcase:

The three shelves provided for four Wedgwood “Patrician” plates and matching cups and saucers; two square Canonsburg “American Traditional" dessert plates, a white teapot, a napkin holder, two sets of salt and peppers, a candlestick and a black and white teapot.

Under the lowest shelf I placed several tea books. Ceramic cottage boxes add to the mix:

Alongside on the right, are a framed print, and ceramic tea-house containers.

This post is linked to Metamorphosis Monday. Please visit Susan Susan at Between Naps on the Porchfor links to many more captivating changes, and to join in this weekly blog event.
I am also linking to Tabletop Tuesday, hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life.

Also linking to Tea Time Tuesday at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.

Have a great week, and do visit again soon!

Teacup Tuesday – Soft Yellow Beleek

2010-11-09T12:17:00.004-05:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, is co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

My teacup for this Tuesday was made in Ireland. This pattern is Belleek "Tridacna" [5th mark 1955-65], a lovely sea shell design.

The pale yellow cup and saucer feel so thin and so light, but it is strong porcelain. This thin irridescent porcelain is called parian china.

The handle is a delicate ring circle, with tiny branches at top and bottom.

Here I pair the exquisite cup and saucer with a Fleetwood vase with an irridescent glaze. This vase is designed as a tree trunk and is embellished with 22 kt. gold. On the tree branch is a golden squirrel holding a nut.

Please visit Martha and Terri at the links above to see more lovely teacups, and also to link to your own post.

I am also linking to Tea Pot and Tea Things Tuesday. Click here to visit other participants. I trust you are enjoying your week...God bless!

Tablescape Thursday – Eggplant and Pumpkins

2010-10-28T00:02:00.002-04:00

Again this week the tablescape is at the breakfast table in kitchen. The color scheme has deep hues to go along with the cooler weather we have been having here.

The table cover is a plaid in green, yellow, and red. Red quilted round placemats are set with white dinner plates, green cabbage plates and white pumpkin bowls. Yellow napkins and Towle stainless flatware complete the place settings.

The centerpiece includes a large white pumpkin covered serving bowl, a green ceramic candle holder, and a Fitz and Floyd Eggplant covered dish, set amid brown hydrangeas.

This post is linked to Tablescape Thursday. Please Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for links to many more table settings.and to join in this weekly blog event. I am also linking to Leigh's "Thrifty Thursday" at Tales From Bloggeritaville. Please visit her for links to all the participants.

This tablesetting also depended largely on bargains that I found in discount stores, local thrift stores, etc.
The round tablecloth cost $3.00, while the napkins and the place mats were 25 cents each at a local thrift store.

Wedgwood "Edme" Dinner plates – local thrift store - $3.25 for 3 dinner plates, 2 bread and butter plates along with one cream soup bowl and saucer.
Pinheiro Bordallo Cabbage Leaf Dessert Plates – TJ Maxx and Marshalls $7.99 each; Individual salad bowls – from TJ Maxx
Fostoria brown "Virginia" Goblets – Six for $5.00 at flea market Lenox "Summer Terrace" candle holder made in Portugal – Ebay Best Offer.
Towle "English Shell" Stainless flatware – From Ebay and Replacements Ltd. At very reasonable prices.
White pumpkin soup tureen and bowls – T.J. Maxx $5.99 each for small bowls.

Thanks for stopping by. I enjoy reading your comments.

Japanese Iris by Helen C. Read

2010-10-15T11:36:00.005-04:00

For some time now I have subscribed to artist Helen C. Read’s email newsletters about her current paintings. She lives in Illinois and does her work out of The Studio Upstairs. She does lovely paintings of natural objects – still life studies of fruit, flowers, and other botanicals, which I find very pleasing.

In early summer I received a message with a free painting offer:
“For the first 12 of my studio friends to send me an email request, I will send your small print of a spring flower as a gift. It will be ready to mat and frame and hang as a reminder of spring's long awaited arrival this year! Please respond right away in order to be one of the first 12!”
I rushed to enter and was happy to receive the matted print soon after. I looked at my frames and found one that fit exactly:

Her bio states that she is a parent, high school teacher, artist, and writer. In addition, “she is an active member of her church and several small groups.”

For more information, and to see her beautiful and truly fabulous paintings please visit or write:

Website: http://www.helencread.com/
Email: studio_upstairs@hotmail.com
Blog: http://helenreads.blogspot.com/
Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/HelenCRead

Helen Read
The Studio Upstairs
PO Box 251 - Wheaton, IL 60187

Visit Cindy at My Romantic Home for links to other Show and Tell participants.

A Second Fall Tablescape (Loaded With Bargains!)

2010-10-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

This week’s tablescape is set at the breakfast table in the kitchen. It has deeper fall hues than my table last week, and so is more fall-like. The table is covered with a deep golden yellow cloth. The dinner plate is Royal China "Wellesley", as is the bread and butter plate and fruit saucer. The saucer is brown Wood and Sons "Wellesley" but the cup is Wedgwood "Patrician."

I couldn’t remember where I put the matching "Wellesley" cups, so had to pinch hit on this. The Wood and Sons "Wellesley" cup is in the same stylized floral pattern as the plates which were made by an American company, Royal China Company, in Sebring, Ohio. Wood & Sons produce their wares in Burslem, England.

Next came the sunflower bowls from TJ Maxx

The flatware is Towle "English Shell" stainless, except for the dinner forks which have bone handles.

Putting the fruit saucer in the sunflower bowl gives a nice symmetrical look to the setting:

Off-white napkins with brown checks are placed in ceramic peach napkin rings along with fall leaves, which are also scattered around the table.

A spray of fall flowers from Michael’s is set in a pineapple pitcher. An English ceramic cottage container holds herb tea bags.

Around the cottage are tiny pumpkins as well as acorns from my yard.

The goblets are Fostoria "Virginia" in brown.

Here is the full place setting:

The table is set for two this fall day:

I swapped out the blue painting from the wall for this fall landscape from the living room:

The hues in the painting harmonizes with the colors of the tablescape:

Please visit Susan Susan at Between Naps on the Porchfor links to many more table settings.

I am also linking this post to Leigh's “Thrifty Thursday” at Tales From Bloggeritaville. Please visit her for links to more participants.

This tablesetting depended largely on wonderful bargains which I found in discount stores, local thrift stores, and an area flea market.

TJ Maxx & Marshalls provided:
The pineapple pitcher ($9.99), sunflower bowls ($2.99 each), ceramic napkin rings ($1.99 each)

At the flea market I found six of the “Virginia” goblets for $5. Total The four I had before were bought new for $39.99. So that purchase brought my holdings up to 10. I also spotted two of the “Wellesley” dinner plates for just $2.00, bringing my total to eight.

The English ceramic cottage container fell and broke so the dealer offered it to me at $1.00. A bit of glue restored the piece which had broken off the back.

The landscape picture was a few dollars at a local junk shop.

Thrift store finds on the table
The tablecloth for about $1.25; napkins 25 cents each, and bone handled forks, $3.00.

An after season sale at CVS Pharmacy yielded the fabric leaves I’ve strewn across the table.

Teacup and Tabletop Tuesday

2010-10-12T12:15:00.006-04:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

As she does each week, in her current post Martha shared several very beautiful teacups. In describing them Martha usually lets us know the name of the handle design of the cup. One of this week’s selections is a Haviland Limoges pattern called "Autumn Leaf." As Martha noted, it has a ring handle, and is the only one in her collection. Martha asked if any else had a ring handle cup. So I took a look at my blue and white teacup collection and spotted a pale blue Limoges. I think this qualifies, Martha – what do you think?

It is solid blue inside with stylized white and blue flowers on the outside and on the saucer:

I made a little setting using the teacup and saucer with one of my tea books, Afternoon Teas: Recipes, History, Menus "A Between Friends Cookbook" by Pam McKee, Lin Webber and Ann Krum,

I also added a light blue rock crystal candle stick and candle. The candlestick was a gift from one of my sisters many years ago. The tablecloth is one of my favorite white embroidered in blue.

I am linking also to Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .

Early Fall Family Table

2010-10-07T00:01:00.007-04:00

We've come to another Tablescape Thursday, hosted by our talented Susan at Between Naps on the Porch. Each week she gathers a host of wonderful tablesettings for our continuing delight.

This is the first table I’ve done in months due to my illness from a small stoke on April 2, 2010. I am certainly glad to participate in Tablescape Thursday again.

I call this an early fall table because I need to break into fall gently. While I find it a beautiful time of year I am also uneasy with all the debris on my front steps, driveway, lawn,….every where. All those fallen leaves makes for lots of raking and for a rather messy appearance. So for this table setting I thought to avoid spreading leaves over this table as I’ve done on fall tables in the past. I also left off my acorn items, but will include them on another fall table. (Actually, I still have to take out all my fall decorations!)

A soft yellow cloth forms the background.

Plates, bowls, cups and saucers – Royal Worcester “Evesham” fruit pattern
Chargers – gold and silver lacquer

Goblets – RW “Evesham” & amber depression glass Indiana “Tiara”
Flatware – Mikasa “Estasi” – stainless edged in gold

The center piece began with three tall faux floral sprays, to which I added some dried hydrangeas from my garden.

Decorative accessories include an orange ceramic pitcher, Fitz and Floyd covered pumpkin on tray, Fitz and Floyd radish salt and pepper shakers, Italian ceramic squash and melon, gourd salt and peppers, and other fruit shapes. A covered amber glass candy dish from a consignment shop anchors another corner.

This view of the place setting shows the matching “Evesham” linen napkin under the forks:

The table hints of fall but not in a very exhuberant way. I trust you find it pleasing, nonetheless. I will do another fall table soon.

This post is also linked to Centerpiece Wednesday at Style Sisters.

Hutch Party

2010-09-22T17:31:00.005-04:00

Today is Jennifer Rizzo’s Hook Up Your Hutch Party. She invites us to link up our posts sharing our "hutch, china cabinet, and more."

Let's start in the kitchen. There is a pine hutch which houses my blue and white tea cup collection. This was a consignment store find.

Here it is filled with my blue and white "Liberty Blue" dishes, and green Bordallo Pinheiro items:
Next we see it with Spode "Christmas Tree" dishes and fresh greenery at Christmas time.

In the dining room is a painted white corner cabinet where I display pink and white china. This was another consignment store find

Also in the dining room is a mahogany breakfront. This houses my formal china.

In the living room is a secretary desk. The glass front cabinet holds leather bound books and varied ceramic decorative pieces.

A second cabinet in the living room is this cherry wood curio cabinet. It displays an English bone china tea set, a crystal nativity set, a porcelain nativity set, and other decorative items.

Thank you for stopping by today. Please be sure to stop by Jennifer’s blog to see many more hutches.

Outdoor Wednesday: Well-Watered Plants

2010-08-25T19:18:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned in my Mosaic Monday post, the hot summer days had left my garden all parched. Well, the past three days we have had rain, and as I look out I can see the plants making good use of all the extra water.

So today I ventured out across the sopping wet grass to look at my Rose of Sharon plant. I received a piece last summer from a friend and have been looking out from the kitchen window to see the lovely pink blooms. All along there were just one bloom at a time. However, in the past three days I’ve seen two, three, and now five blooms.

Even when wet, the pink blooms are so lovely:

I also enjoyed looking at the blossoms and buds on the nearby Stella d’Oro lilies plants:

This post is linked to Susan’s Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer.

Transformation Tuesday

2010-08-24T15:55:00.002-04:00

Kimberley of Terra del Sole is considering a new meme to help bloggers “share how they are transforming their lives.”

Her theme is “Live, Love, Laugh, Learn.” In her first post she shares how other bloggers are fulfilling aspects of this theme in their blog posts.

On my living room love seat I have a small blue pillow that urges “Live/ Love/ Laugh.”

In recent posts I shared my new regimen based on the NEWSTART 18-day lifestyle program.

Getting a New Start on a Healthy Lifestyle

NEWSTART Update

What to Eat for Satiety

In the past couple weeks, my sisters and I have also joined an individualized coaching program aimed at helping women identify, develop and achieve personal goals. I will write about this soon.

Let's all try to live with more love and laughter in our daily activities.

Mosaic Monday - Summer Flowers

2010-08-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

On my return from my California trip I found my garden pretty wilted by the heat and lack of water while I was away. But there were still some blooms and I've made a couple mosaice for Mary's Mosaic Monday event.

The Stella d'Oro daylily and Rose of Sharon plants were given to me last June by a friend. The hydrangeas and impatiens were bought at area garden centers.

This mosaic features hydrangeas. They are Endless Summer and were planted in 2008.

Be sure to visit Mary at Little Red House to see the mosaics prepared by other participants.

Family Birthday Celebration

2010-08-19T11:22:00.008-04:00

On Sunday we had a family get-together to celebrate my birthday which was last Wednesday. My youngest sister hosted it at her home. Her son and daughter put out balloons on the mailbox and on the back fence near the pool. (The balloons are somewhat deflated since I didn't take the photos till the next afternoon.)

The family attending included my mother, her sister, my sister, husband, son and daughter, brother-in-law’s aunt, and from out of town another sister and brother-in-law. They arrived in Massachusetts from their home in Florida early Sunday morning.

Several stainless steel chafing dishes kept the food hot on the kitchen table:

Here is the place setting in the Dining Room

On a white tablecloth were pretty summery ceramic plates and handpainted goblets. Gilt frames as place cards and gold flatware were joined by white napkins in napkin rings to complete the settings.

Just before we sat down, I took a quick photo overview of table. Note the three candelabras as the centerpiece:

Be sure to visit our lovely hostess,Susan, at Between Naps on the Porch for more wonderful tablesettings.

What to Eat for Satiety

2010-08-01T19:30:00.008-04:00

My heartfelt thanks to each person who left a comment to the three previous posts. Your kind words are most appreciated. Again, I’m glad to write in response to questions you’ve asked.
From Katherine at Yellow Rose Arbor came the query, "Can you give us more details of what you eat for breakfast and lunch that holds you all night? I'm curious!"
Carrell at Country Charisma indicated, "Would love to know what they recommended for your breakfast and lunch."

At NEWSTART we were urged to "Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, supper like a pauper." So our biggest meal would be breakfast.
The cafeteria provided substantial meals that kept us well-fed without hunger pangs in between meals. In any case, we were also urged to avoid snacking so our meals had time to digest properly. We also got lots of encouragement to drink lots of water between meals.

For your interest, here is a sampling of what we ate that gave wonderful satiety** through the day and night.

BREAKFAST:
Whole grain Oatmeal or other whole cooked cereal
Whole grain cereals: Maple Nut Granola*, Sunflower Date Granola, Pineapple Granola,
Whole Grain Corn or Rice flakes
Milk: Almond milk, Soy milk, Rice milk
Beans and other legumes such as lentils
Entrees like Scrambled Tofu as an egg substitute
Fresh fruit: apples, oranges, grapefruit, kiwi,
Whole grain breads
Spreads/ Sprinkles: almond butter, Nutritional Yeast Flakes

NO JUICES, NO WATER WITH MEALS

LUNCH:
Whole grain pasta dishes
Baked or mashed potatoes
Brown Rice dishes
Salad bar: lettuces, tomatoes, cucumber, kidney beans, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, croutons, etc.
Fresh fruit: apples, oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, etc.
Whole grain breads: raisin, wheat, spelt, multi-grain
Spreads/ Sprinkles: almond butter, nutritional yeast flakes, flax seed flakes, date pieces, sunflower seeds

SUPPER:
Green salad fixings
Soups: Lentil, vegetable, barley, etc.
Whole Grain Bread
Spreads: Hummus, Almond butter, Peanut butter
Fresh fruit platter
Whole Wheat Herb Crackers*
*Illustrations from Weimar Market website.

We received cooking lessons in the cooking school kitchen from Sally Christensen and her two assistants. Mrs. Christensen edited the Newstart Lifestyle Cookbook.

For our last lesson we prepared a delicious Mexican luncheon.
We each received a copy of the NEWSTART Lifestyle Cookbook upon arrival our first day.

**sa·ti·ety definition
Pronunciation: /sə-ˈtī-ət-ē also ˈsā-sh(ē-)ət-/
Function: n
pl -eties ; : the quality or state of being fed or gratified to or beyond capacity

Source: Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary, © 2007 Merriam-Webster, Inc.

I am linking this post to a new meme, Whatever Wednesday hosted by Kimberly at Terra del Sole.

NEWSTART Update

2010-07-29T00:01:00.004-04:00

Katherine at Yellow Rose Arbor suggested that I "share some of your progress with us!" and asked, "How are you feeling now?"

Well, I am feeling much stronger. The stroke (even though it was not a severe stroke) left me weakened and frail. It affected me both physically and emotionally. I found that the daily walks in the sunshine on the Half Mile Loop road strengthened my legs and my whole body. I started out dragging my affected left leg and foot, but little by little, was able to walk more naturally.
The Half Mile Loop had a lot of slopes, up and down, so it was reasonably taxing. We were also taken to other trails such as the Flume Trail, which ran beside a waterway. Here is one shot I took on this tree-shaded trail:

Each person was assigned to one of three medical doctors who monitored our health and made changes as necessary. I was taken off my cholesterol medicine and one of my blood pressure medications. My diabetic medicine was reduced to once daily since I stopped having supper. The whole food breakfasts and lunches were satisfying enough so we were not hungry in between meals and did not miss supper. Since being home, I have continued skipping supper as I work to have substantial breakfast and lunch meals.

Wednesday lunch and Saturday breakfast was held in the Cooking School Kitchen and consisted mainly of whole food dishes we prepared ourselves in cooking class:

The rest of the meals were in the NEWSTART Dining Room in the Cafeteria building

Hydrotherapy and massage sessions helped my muscles relax and helped me toward
an overall sense of well being.

Perhaps you are wondering, "What does NEWSTART mean?" Well, here is a brief explanation of the acronym:

Nutrition
Exercise
Water
Sunlight
Temperance
Air
Rest
Trust in Divine power

A much fuller explanation is found here online: http://www.newstart.com/what_is.php

Here is my NEWSTART water bottle. We were each given one upon arrival and kept it filled from the water cooler in the Lodge lobby. We were to drink 6-8 glasses or more daily, beginning with two glasses upon awakening. We were also encouraged to eat lots of fruit and vegetables – especially leafy green vegetables.

In the 18 days I lost about 4 pounds and one inch off my waist, though the first week I actually gained one pound due to trying out too much food from the cafeteria menu! But with portion control, I was able to turn that around. We were advised not to to take in more calories than we were expending in our daily activities.

Visiting Empire Gold Mine State Park

2010-07-28T00:01:00.002-04:00

The area of northern California where I was (see last post) had been a gold mining region. So one of the excursions we had as part of the NEWSTART program was a visit Empire Mine State Historic Park. The site includes a museum and Visitor’s Center with a scale model of the mine’s below the surface workings, a gift shop, mine shafts, the owner’s mansion, called "The Cottage," the mine superintendent’s house, a club house and beautiful grounds. For this post, I’ll focus on the beautiful outdoor views that I photographed while there on July 4, 2010.

Here is a view of the fountain across the lawn in front of the mansion

Two stately planted urns frame the approach up to The Cottage:

The Cottage, home of the owner of the Empire Gold Mine, William Bourn, Jr.

Façade of The Cottage

Roses in front of the mansion

Side view of the front of The Cottage Floral beauty in white at the side of the mansion

Light fixture on a side porch at the mansion

Another light fixture in front of the ornate front entrance

Stately Italian cypress across the lawn

Formal sunken garden on the grounds

Towering Ponderosa pines

Textured bark of a Ponderosa pine

Closer look at the bark of a Ponderosa
Yellow flowering ground cover. (Sorry, I did not get the name of this plant)

This post is linked to the following blog events:

My World Tuesday, hosted by Klaus.

Outdoor Wednesday hosted at Susan’s blog, A Southern Daydreamer

Getting a New Start On A Healthy Lifestyle

2010-07-26T17:38:00.008-04:00

I’ve just returned from a stay at Weimar Center for Health and Education. I was a guest for the 18-day NEWSTART Lifestyle Program. I felt this would help me get on a healthy diet and exercise program, since I was diagnosed with diabetes the day aftter my stroke in April. The program promises to:
Reverse Diabetes
Restore Hearts
Relieve Arthritis
Renew Immune Systems
Shed Pounds
Lower Cholesterol
Increase Energy
Enhance Vital Capacity

We had private rooms with bath, (and fresh towels and bath mat daily) hydrotherapy and massage, health lectures, cooking school, walking along trails, getting to know the other guests, many of whom became wonderful friends. We encouraged each other, and celebrated when anyone lost pounds, lowered cholesterol, lowered blood sugar, etc. Our delicious meals were made from "whole foods eaten whole." We were happy to take home a thick recipe pack prepared by the cafeteria staff, the Newstart Cookbook, and other recipe handouts.

The Weimar campus is in northern California and I enjoyed the beauty of the setting – towering trees, shrubs, and flowers. It is truly a haven with the stately Ponderosa pines and other tree varieties, many types of shrubs, and bright flower beds.

The first mosaic below shows:
The flagpole (2d photo) stands in a circle where guests walked round and round. There were also twelve miles of walking trails.
The Gazebo was site of early morning Stretcherizes. This was followed with a walk around the Half Mile Loop.

The second mosaic shows
Sections of the Half Mile Loop Road

The final mosaic includes:
Magnolia tree in front of Weimar Inn
Sequoia tree
Daylilies on right front

Today’s post is linked to Mosaic Monday hosted by Mary at Little Red House. Go there for links to other shared mosaics.

Thankful for Multiple Providences

2010-04-30T18:00:00.002-04:00

My current illness has given me many, many things to be thankful for:
When I had a small stroke early on Friday April 2, I was able to reacheach person I called – something that rarely ever happens, no matter what time of day. I reached my brother two states away, the head nurse at my primary care physician’s office, and most importantly, my youngest sister, who lives 50 miles away. Having the day off, my sister came and took me to the hospital Emergency Room, and stayed until I was installed in the Intensive Care Unit, as a new stroke patient.
There, the doctor, all the nurses and other staff were very caring and helpful, as they worked to bring my synthoms under control.

In a few days I was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital. The doctors, nurses,aides, physical therapists, occupational therapists and others, made me feel in good hands. I concentrated on cooperating with everything - a dozen medicines, 3 hours a day of therapy, lots of needles, hospital food, etc., etc.

I was very thankful that the stroke was a small one, affecting my left leg. Soon I regained strength on my left side and my overall balance. I was happy to see my middle sister, who took off a few days to take care of me my first few days at home. She flew in from Maryland the night before I was discharged. So both younger sisters came and got me at the hospital, stopping for groceries on the way to my home.

So while this is still a difficult time, I am thankful for many blesssings which God provides such as friends from church who've helped out with errands, laundry and other needed tasks.
Many thanks ot Martha at Martha's Favorites for including me on your prayer list. Thanks also to Terri at Artful Affirmations. and Katherine at Yellow Rose Arbor for your kind support.

WordFilled Wednesday – Isaiah 53:5

2010-03-31T19:44:00.005-04:00

But he was wounded for our transgressions,
he was bruised for our iniquities:
the chastisement of our peace was upon him;
and with his stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5 KJV

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5 NIV

For God so loved the world
that he gave his one and only Son,
that whoever believes in him
shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16 NIV

It is amazing to consider that God would make a sacrifice for us. We do not even know what He gave up to give us the opportunity to live with Him eternally. However, the Scriptures assure us that when He comes again He will happily receive us and take us then to heaven!

For more Word Filled Wednesday visit this week's hostess, Amydeane, at The 160 Acre Woods.

Tuesday Events

2010-03-30T03:03:00.008-04:00

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.

The teacup I’d like to share for Tea Cup Tuesday is "Summer Beauty" by Roslyn, fine bone china made in England.

The gilt edged cup and saucer has a floral motif in pinks, white and yellow with green leaves. The cup has the floral motif on both sides of the cup as well as on the inside.

The saucer has gently curved edges:

I've set this break-time vignette with a few items from thrift stores. The floral picture in the oval wood frame is19" tall x 16" across. The cost was $3.00 plus tax.

Enjoyable browsing is right at hand with two Mary Engelbreit Home Companion books, "Collections" and "Plates." They were $4.98 each.

The Roslyn teacup and a salad plate from Heinrich & Co., made in Germany, provide for a leisurely cup of tea and a scone.

The teal cloth is one of four 19" napkins from a thrift at 25 cents each. They have a pleasing pattern in a tone on tone -- a square in the center and a wider border.

I am also linking to the following blog events:

Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life and Nifty Thrifty Tuesday hosted by Linda at Coastal Charm .

Teatime Tuesday, hosted by Lady Katherine at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.

Tea Time Tuesday, hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage

Tea Party Tuesday, is hosted by Rhondi at Rose Colored Glasses

Second Time Around hosted by Diane at A Picture is Worth 1000 Words

Please visit other participating bloggers from the lists at each hostess' blog. Thank you for stopping here today. Please leave a comment if you wish.

Napkins in Rings

2010-03-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

I found photos of tablesettings I’ve posted about in the past year or so, and decided to put them into a Mosaic for Mosaic Monday hosted by Mary at Little Red House. Go to Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday posts

It was fun to review all the table settings from past posts and see the napkins and napkin rings I have used.

FIRST MOSAIC

The pink napkin in porcelain calla lily napkin ring is from my most recent tablescape.

Below it is a cream napkin with lace corner in a daffodil napkin ring, set on a blue and white plate.

A white with blue napkin is fitted with glass Avon "Cape Cod" napkin ring for an Independence Day setting.

A soft pink napkin is in a gold-plated napkin ring for a Mother’s Day table.

Below blue and white napkins are set on blue and white dinner plates and glass salad plates.

A SECOND MOSAIC

A ceramic banana napkin ring holds a white napkin with a colorful geometric print.

Under it is a Lenox "Holiday" napkin with matching porcelain napkin ring.

Bottom left a simple silverplated ring holds a green and white napkin.

An off-white napkin embroidered in brown is held with a ridged wooden napkin rings.

The daffodil rings are used with light gold napkins.

I am glad you visited today. Please come again. I would enjoy reading your comment.

Eastertime Tablescape

2010-03-25T14:44:00.008-04:00

Today’s tablescape has a green and pastel color scheme in honor of spring and the Easter season. On a pale pink tablecloth I began with green ceramic chargers by Lenox -- "Summer Terrace," a majolica style pattern of vines and raised ridges, made in Portugal.

Next came dinner plates in vintage "Edme" by Wedgwood, creamy porcelain with starburst ridge pattern on plates that echo the ridged border of the chargers.

A green Bordallo Pinheiro "cabbage" dessert plate was topped with "Edme" cream soups and saucers.

Pale green 11.5 oz. goblets are Libbey DuraTuff/ Rock Sharpe "Gibraltar." They have an attractive panelled bowl design.

Flatware is Towle Supreme Stainless "English Shell." The setting is completed with "Edme" bread and butter plates with individual butter spreaders.

Napkins in yellow under deep pink are held in porcelain flower napkin rings. [Mimi's comment just reminded me of the flower name -- calla lilies! ]

The full place setting:

The centerpiece is a grouping of two bunnies (the larger one holding fresh yellow flowers), a pair of oval boxes decorated in pink and yellow and three pale yellow pillar candles.

Both bunnies are accented in pink:

Thrift shops provided several items for today’s tablesetting. For a total cost was just $3.25 I found a vintage cream soup and stand, 3 dinner plates and 3 bread and butter plates in the Wedgwood Queensware "Edme" pattern.
3 pale green Libbey DuraTuff/ Rock Sharpe "Gibraltar"goblets cost $2.00.
The pink and yellow napkins were 25 cents each and the pink tablecloth was 75 cents. The yellow oval baking dish under the bunny cost 25 cents. The pillar candles were found in a consignment shop. Both bunnies are also thrift store finds.

Dolls at Tea Vignettes

2010-03-23T00:33:00.011-04:00

In my study I have a few vignettes with five of my dolls and three little tea sets.

The first is on a skirted round table in front of the window. It shows two literary dolls, Alice on the left and Heidi on the right. Both are 11" tall made by Effanbee from their series of storybook dolls. They are seated in front of a stack of books that serves as a tea table surface.

A porcelain doll stands between them:

The top layer is a book-shaped box and under it are the books, Heidi by Johanna Spyri, and Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

On a nearby bookcase a couple other tea vignettes are displayed.

The top shelf holds a lovely porcelain doll in wicker chair with her teacup on a wicker table with a crocheted topper. The teacup is porcelain by Crown Staffordshire, made in England.
This miniature teacup is one of my very favorites:

The matching teapot rests on the very top of the bookcase, since it did not fit on the wicker table.

A blue and white dolls’ tea set rests on top of books on the second shelf.

On the shelf a wooden bench with a woven seat holds a tiny doll who sits with two dog pals.

Her tea setting rests on the shelf below:

These vignettes all reflect great buys. The round table, tablecover, crocheted doilies and the doll tea sets are from local gift of thrift shops. The tiny doll cost 50 cents while the one above her cost $8.99 in a gift shop. The Heidi and Alice books were found for about ten cents each at a thrift store. The larger doll chairs and the green ceramic pine cone came from Marshalls and Michaels. The bookcase is a thrifty consignment shop find.

This post is linked to the following Tuesday blog events:

Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .
Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.
Teatime Tuesday, hosted by Lady Katherine at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.
Tea Time Tuesday, hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage
Tea Party Tuesday, is hosted by Rhondi at Rose Colored Glasses. Nifty Thrifty Tuesday hosted by Linda at Coastal Charm

Three or More Tuesday is sponsored by Tam at The Gypsy's Corner. Please visit her for more participating posts.

Vintage Thingie Thursday – 50's Charm

2010-03-18T14:35:00.006-04:00

Today’s vintage thing is green dishware by Anchor Hocking in the "Charm" pattern. I showed this dishware in my St. Patrick’s Day tea tablesetting, and wanted to share a little about this simple but brilliant pattern.

The "Charm" pattern was produced by Anchor Hocking between 1950 and 1956 and was produced in both green and a ruby red color way. The square plates also have a starburst pattern in the center.

Plates included bread and butter, dessert, luncheon and dinner sizes. There is also an oblong platter.

Bowls came in dessert, soup and serving sizes.

The square cups were tea or coffee cups while rounded ones were for the large punch bowl and served as punch cups.

Be sure to see more Vintage Thingies Thursday posts listed by our hostess Suzanne at Coloradolady.

Visit Cindy at My Romantic Home for links to other Show and Tell participants.

WordFilled Wednesday – The Names of Our Savior

2010-03-17T15:47:00.005-04:00

graphic from jesuschristis.com

The above poster reminds us of the many names given in Scripture for our Savior Jesus Christ. Each name denotes one aspect of the fullness we can find in Him.
Here are some of the Biblical references:

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 NKJV

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
John 1:29 NIV

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.
John 6:35 NIV

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
John 14:6 NKJV

During this Easter time the image of the Good Shepherd is a joyful promise.

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.
John 10:11 NKJV

Let’s praise God for His marvelous Gift!

This post is linked to Wordfilled Wednesday. This week’s hostess is Christy at Critty Joy.

A Tea for St Patrick’s Day

2010-03-16T00:01:00.006-04:00

Today, March 16th, Kathleen at Cuisine Kathleen is hosting the 2nd Annual St. Patrick's Blog Roll Party. Visit her for more participants.

Following is a link to another St Patrick’s Day blog carnival, this one in Northern Ireland. It is hosted by Janmary at Welcome to My World Janmary.

In honor of Saint Patrick, I invite you to a luncheon and tea. This setting started with vintage luncheon plates, cups and saucer in Hocking forest green “Charm”.

Since these are a simple square design, I decided to use other simple designs in my tablesetting. My Silver Sunday post showed the simple silverplate pieces I’ve chosen.

Green goblets by Libbey are accompanied by clear Vendange goblets. The linens are white Battenberg lace placemats and green and white napkins in a fern print.

The mixed silverplate flatware came from my mother and from thrift shops at 10 cents each.

The three-tier silverplate server was a gift from my Mother many years ago. Each level has a paper lace doily.

On the top tier is a small angel figurine with shamrock trimmed robe

A pastry server is near simple egg-shaped salt and pepper shakers

Clear candlesticks with simple form were a consignment shop find. The green tapers are from Walmart.
On either side the clear tulip votive candleholders are just two of about a dozen that I have—all from thrift shops at 25 cents, 50 cents or a dollar each. They’ve been placed in”Charm” berry bowls, they hold green votives from Family Dollar. A Paul Revere bowl holds a Battenberg lace roll napkin for scones.

A Paul Revere water pitcher rests in a luncheon plate near dessert bowls on a silverplate trivet.

A two-part server and a compote of a silver bowl on a candlestick are additional serving pieces.Here is a clean-lined silverplate tea set on a silverplate tray, along with a green bud vase. (Sorry that my photos are so poor!)Scattered around the table are paper cutouts of shamrock bunches.

Here I have tried to assemble a monochromatic table setting that is full of green color to evoke the Irish. I hope you enjoyed this design.

Wishing you all a happy St. Patrick’s Day

I am also linking to:

Table Top Tuesday hosted by Marty at A Stroll Thru Life .

Tea Cup Tuesday, co-hosted by Martha at Martha’s Favorites and Terri at Artful Affirmations.
Teatime Tuesday, hosted by Lady Katherine at Lady Katherine's Tea Parlor.
Tea Time Tuesday, hosted by Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage

Tea Party Tuesday, is hosted by Rhondi at Rose Colored Glasses.

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday hosted by Linda at Coastal Charm

Tablescape Thursday hosted by Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Mosaic and Blue Monday

2010-03-15T00:02:00.000-04:00

I found photos of teacups I’ve posted about in the past couple years and decided to put them into a Mosaic for Mosaic Monday hosted by Mary at Little Red House. Go to Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday posts

The first mosaic shows china teacups and saucers by Lenox, Spode, Rosenthal, Heinrich & Co., and Mikasa:

The second presents blue and white teacups alone and on a teacup stand. They include patterns by Churchill, Royal Worcester, and Portmeirion. The cups on the stand are variations on the blue onion pattern:

The third features a mixture of cups and saucers -- Blue Danube, Heinrich & Co., Royal Worcester and two doll size sets:

Enjoy your day... and do visit again.

Simple Silver

2010-03-14T15:30:00.006-04:00

This post is linked to Silver Sunday, hosted by Beth at Gypsy Fish Journal.

As I am putting together my tablescape for St. Patrick’s Day I’ve chosen simple square green plates, cups and saucers. Beside white linen, I decided on simple silverplate wares.

We begin with two Paul Revere designs: a bowl and a water pitcher

The designs look contemporary, so it’s hard to think that they are of the American Colonial era, designed by silversmith and patriot, Paul Revere.

The tea set is also very simple in design

The only embellishment on each piece is a narrow strip of lines.

The napkin rings are a simple square edged design:

Salt and pepper shakers are a clean egg-like shape:

A three-tier stand is also decorated only with simple curves and swirls:

I made a compote of a bowl with simple Chippendale lines that I affixed to a green candleholder using Dept. 56 Tacky Wax:

This two-part dish can be used for candy, nuts and other small treats

The dish features a graceful twist for a handle:

I usually place a pineapple trivet on the table. This silver one is a traditional design with simple lines.

Please check back on Tuesday March 16 for the complete St. Patrick’s Day Tea setting.

Travel Souvenir Collections 4 Oberammergau Passion Play

2010-03-12T00:01:00.008-05:00

Visit Cindy at My Romantic Home for links to other Show and Tell participants.

Today’s post is a continuation from yesterday’s post, "Europe: An Illustrated Tablescape."

In 1970 as a graduate student I spent six weeks of summer school in England. Each Wednesday was an all-day excursion to various places of interest to English majors:
I had a set of two large scrapbooks bought in England. Each day our group placed items in our albums related to literary and historic sites which we visited.

I also kept three small notebooks for daily entries about the day’s happenings.

A scrapbook page showing tokens from our visit to the National Gallery in London:

Other London sites visited

A day in Wells and Glastonbury

At the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon we saw Patrick Stewart in King John. Some of us had just studied the play along with other Shakespeare history plays in a graduate course.

Following the six weeks in England we spent two weeks on the European continent. A highlight of that time was a stay in the Bavarian Alps town of Garmisch, Germany at the Drie Mohren hotel. I can still remember the soft featherbeds in my room.

Hotel Der Drei Mohren (The Three Moors), Garmisch, Germany

From their website, here is an example of the comfortable rooms. I remember sinking into the featherbed….how dreamy….

Excerpt from my notebook:
"Houses in Oberammergau – painted scenes on sides & fronts: religious, fairy tales, etc. Very pretty flower boxes, gingerbread designs. {Surroundings evoke} clean, honest, working people. Women & men working in fields tossing hay; native dress common on women and girls."

Well, our reason for staying there is that Garmisch is very near to Oberammergau, where the Oberammergau Passion Play is held every 10 years in keeping with a vow made in 1633. The town was grateful for being spared from the plague which killed off thousands on the continent.
Since 2010 is a performance year for the Play, I am longing to go over there again, and to experience the dramatic performance.

Memories of the Passionsspiele
Excerpt from my notebook:
"Thurs. Aug. 27 -- Left hotel and arrived at Ober. at 9:15. Play began shortly after we were seated...Late Americans!"

Each attendee was given a book with full score of the lyrics in one of various languages so the audience could follow the action on stage. Here is my copy and my ticket:
Before each scene a long line of singers came out and the Prologue, a tall male singer in the middle, gave an introduction to the next scene. I scannned this postcard:

Photo of the postcard in my scrapbook

I can still see the beautiful colors of the rich costumes.

The Last Supper

Judas Betrays Jesus With a Kiss

I remember that the singing and speaking was masterfully done – all in German. I wished then that I had studied German in college or high school, in addition to Spanish and some French.

After a lunch break, we all returned to our seats for the afternoon performance with its moving scenes of the crucifixion.

Excerpt from my notebook
"Returned to hotel for quite a delicious lunch. Arrived back just before play started."

A very enjoyable feature of the play was the Tableau Vivant segments, where the actors would arrange themselves in a beautifull painting-like scene, and would hold the pose.

Excerpt from a library exhibit I did about the play in the 1980’s
"Even today, ten years residency in Oberammergau is required for anyone wishing to perform in the play, and preference in casting is given to those who were born there.
"To the 5,000 citizens of the village, the play is many things: a religious pageant, an act of faith, a civic identity and, not least, a once-a-decade commercial bonanza to sustain them through nine lean years."

You may wish to follow this link to further information about the passion play: http://www.oberammergau.de/ot_e/passionplay/

This is my scrapbook page showing a map of the area and postcard of our hotel:
Here is a souvenir teacup and saucer from Oberammergau, Germany made circa 1960's. It is of white porcelain with gilding. Cup 1 ½" tall x 3" diam, Saucer 4 ¼" diam. The cup has a gilt band on inside along with an illustration of the town labeled, 'OBERAMMERGAU'. On bottom of cup: "DD-Co/ Kunstrehal/ Bavaria/ Made in/ Germany" The gold-rimmed saucer is labelled on the bottom: "Bavaria/ S [Crown]W Porzellan/Germany"

A souvenir spoon from Oberammergau. The crest shows a cross draped with a robe to represent the Passion Play

Page from scrapbook showing post cards I bought there:
This German-made white linen is embroidered in blue with a different design on each of four squares that are joined together.

Links to previous posts on travel collection:
Travel Souvenir Collections Part 1 - Spoons
Friday Show & Tell: Travel Souvenir Collections 2 – Plates (Blue and White)
Travel Souvenir Collections 3 - Shelias Houses

Thanks for coming by today. I welcome comments and read each one.

Europe: An Illustrated Tablescape

2010-03-11T00:01:00.010-05:00

The table setting today is the result of my nostalgia for a certain town in Germany where, every ten years a fabulous religious spectacle brings people from all over the world. This is the Oberammergau Passion Play, and 2010 is a performance year. I attended the 1970 play and found it and unforgettable experience. How I wish to be there this year, especially this month, as it leads up to Easter.

The backdrop for the table is a tablecloth my brother brought me from his 5-year stay in Germany during the 1970’s. It is a map of the European continent with landmarks and geographical features.

It was fun to point out to my mother the cities visited in England, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium, Holland and Greece during my trips in 1970, 1979, 1993 and 1995.

At first I planned to iron the 58" x 48" tablecloth, but once I started trying out various pieces for the table setting, I decided to leave it un-pressed for a more 'authentic' unfolded map look!

Now my question was -- what to use with such a busy tablecloth? I decided to begin with clear glass and crystal and ended up using pale amber and clear dinnerwares:

4 vintage "Rosemary Dutch Rose" luncheon plates ($14.00 for 6 at consignment shop)
4 vintage "Rosemary Dutch Rose" berry bowls
4 clear Arcoroc bowls (5 bowls for $2.00 at thrift shop)
4 "Vendange" goblets, made in France ($7.00 for 6 at Crate & Barrel in the 1980’s)
4 tulip glasses, made in Sweden
The flatware is Oneida stainless "Raphael."

To contain each place setting I used German style white cotton Battenberg lace placemats. They echo the white background of the tablecloth. White cotton napkins with lace corners are set in the clear bowls.
Napkin rings did not seem to work here, so I placed a souvenir spoon on each napkin. I bought this spoon in Myconos, Greece, an island in the Aegean Sea.

Going with the plan not to obscure the places on the map, a pair of simple candlesticks with soft yellow candles were placed in the middle and off to the side, a simple crystal basket with tufts of flowers.

Then the fun began as I ‘illustrated’ the linen map further in 3D, with small items from various spots on the map: a teacup from Oberammergau, Germany, an Eiffel Tower, a Bobby’s hat from London, and a miniature book and Delft candleholder from Holland:

While I have large items like tea set, dishware, etc. from my travels, I needed the smallest items to illustrate the tablescape map. The souvenir spoon is from London:

From the blue and white teacup collection came a Royal Copenhagen cup and saucer from Denmark.

Here, just off the coast of Portugal is a cork coaster from that country. I got a set of 12 from Williams Sonoma or Crate & Barrel.

A coaster from a set of six I bought in Athens, Greece in 1993. This coaster illustrates one of the ancient sites I visited on the mainland -- Sunion.

(Note the tablecloth border with names of the various countries.)

Here is the passport cover I used on my 1970 European tour:

European countries are very close together; Here is a miniature plate of Grace and Rainier of Monaco, and a ceramic cheese dispenser shaped like the leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy. Right nearby is the Oberammergau, Germany teacup and saucer.

Near the cheese-dispenser Tower of Pisa is a souvenir spoon from Austria.

Next to the Tour Eiffel, (which my brother got in France) is a tiny 10-cent thrift store plate showing Paris landmarks. The souvenir spoon is from Italy.

Isn’t this a different tablescape? And,...was it crazy to photograph!

On this side of the table you must have the place setting upside down if you are going to photograph the map right side up!

I hope you found this table setting interesting. Thank you for your visit today. I would love to read your comment!

Visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Tablescape Thursday posts. See more Vintage Thingies Thursday posts listed by Suzanne at Coloradolady. See more "Thrifty Thursday"participants at Leigh's blog,Tales From Bloggeritaville.

ATTENTION: Please don't miss my next post which will show and tell more about my attendance at the 1970 Oberammergau Passion Play.