Stories from My Tabletop

Let's dish about "The Good Stuff"

Use it, Talk about it, and Tell it's Story

Tiffany & Co "Tiffany Weave" Strawberry Basket

Every so often, I find myself rethinking a strategy and trying to figure out what I should do?  While swimming laps, I glide back and forth contemplating the available options.  Restarting my blog has been one of those conundrums.   

Since March, I've been writing on Instagram and Facebook seeking social interaction when "social distancing" has been the order of the day.  A pandemic is brutal when it comes to real life, in-person relationships.  However, social media and blogs provide a way to interact and share.  So, here goes!

Last week, I was listening to Victoria Fanning, owner of Crown Linen Designs, announce her company's merger with Arte Italica (which is so exciting - Congratulations Victoria!).  She said, "There is something about being in a state of beauty that can transform us".  This statement perfectly summarizes why I want to share stories and history about dishes, flatware, glassware, flower design, entertaining and hospitality.  Using beautiful dishes, flatware, linens and more for any meal elevates your experience - from the taste to the memories of the event.  It doesn't matter if you are serving Beef Wellington or Chinese take-away - pretty dishes make it better.  There is no more valuable gift you can give your family and friends than the gift of inclusion, connection, and sharing their company.  Breaking bread and sharing a meal together is a gift.  And when we are apart, you need to surround yourself with that beauty to give yourself that grace and permission to use them.  

An article in Better Homes and Gardens magazine features a similar theme  this month, shown here.  Author Hali Bey Ramdene has found beauty by using her pretty Spode for her buttered toast instead of a paper napkin - and I hope it tastes better too.  

Did you know that the expression "born with a silver spoon in their mouth" references good health, not wealth!  Sterling silver has antimicrobal and antibacterial qualities to it.  And in this world-wide health crisis, I'll take all the help I can get!  Pretty makes everything better.

So, let's "dish" about our pretty things... the things that bring joy to our lives and a smile to our face.  By using these lovely objects d'art daily, I've found that they bring up wonderful memories of those I adore, special events, my wedding, and so many family and friends who I wish I could see.  And by using these lovely tabletop things, I find that we create more special times and more memories to share.  As my friend Amy says, "why live like an animal?"  There's no time like the present to enjoy every day, using beauty to transform our lives.

Please join me and let's dish about using our good stuff!  

Pinkies up,

-Kate