Monday, January 16, 2017

Becky"s Birthday Party, January 2016

 In 1952, Becky, Guyanne, and I met each other when we were in the first grade.  Over the years, we married and had families, and life took us to different spots across the country and the world.  Now years later, we all find ourselves back here on the prairie.  It is precious to me that the three of us have reconnected, and we are closer than ever.  I've always believed that when God gives me a gift, I need to be a good steward of that gift, and both Guyanne and Becky are precious gifts in my life.  Today was Becky's birthday, and I was thrilled to gather the three of us, Becky's daughter, and two more of Becky's friends around my table for her birthday luncheon.  We were seated at the games table in the living room.  Come on in and join us...
 
All the Christmas is put away for another year, and I could hardly wait to pull out some of my...


Blue and white, of course!  I made the striped tablecloth.  The fabric is Sunbrella.  It works equally well indoors or out and launders beautifully.


I know that I have used the luncheon plate in the past, but the dinner plate has been hiding in China Town for some time waiting to entertain my friends.


For the opening act, I chose the Mottahedeh Blue Lace charger.


Making a premier appearance at my table, the Copeland Spode Peacock dinner plate was a hit with my friends.


Another variation of the Spode Peacock plate, the luncheon plate is a pleasing variation of the dinner plate.  Hint:  If this pattern appeals to you, be prepared to engage in a search and to spend some time.  It took me a number of years to collect the luncheon plates, and even more years to even find the dinner plates.  Also, you will find that there are many variations of the Spode peacock plates.  They are all lovely.  The blue patterned center seems to make an appearance less often than others.


The topper was a gold rimmed Tiffin bowl.  It could have been a finger bowl during the Victorian era, but today it held Tomato Basil Soup.  The flatware is my wedding silver, Reed & Barton Grande Renaissance.  The cream soup spoon is from my mother-in-love's service of Reed & Barton Francis I.  I am blessed to be the caretaker of her lovely silver until it's time for the next generation to take care of it.


Keeping the color story consistent, I chose to use the AJKA Louis XIV wine and the AJKA Tommy water goblet.  I believe that AJKA originally made the Tommy goblet for St. Louis.  Hint:  Once a company discontinues a pattern, AJKA can begin to release it under their own name and for a reduced price.  Keep your eyes open!  AJKA is the premier maker of cased (colored) crystal.


This place setting made me very happy.


La stack, for all you detail lovers.


For today's centerpiece, I decided to use a strong shot of white to balance all the cobalt in my design.


The quartet of white bouquets from Whole Foods are sitting in petite jardinieres that once held some of my favorite candles, Seda France "Japanese Quince" and "French Tulip".  I've been collecting these lovely little vases for a while now, burning the candles as often as possible.  Eventually I hope to have enough to use for some of my larger parties.  I normally hold on to them for myself, but today, I knew that I wanted to share one with Becky for her birthday.  She can remember her luncheon each time she lights her candle.


The Mottahedeh "Musee Decoratif" tureen always elicits an appreciative response from my guests.

The details are amazing!


Let the festivities commence!  Today I'm serving Tomato Basil Soup, Chicken Tetrazzini, a green salad, hot bread, and Italian Cream Cake for dessert.


We visited long into the afternoon.  I can't imagine a nicer way to spend my day.  Do you have old friends that have come back into your life after years apart.  I hope that you'll invite them to your home and celebrate the bonds that can grow stronger now than when your first became friends.  It's one of the sweetest gifts in life, and I pray that you it will be your gift, too.

This week I'm joining:

Tablescape Thursday with Susan @ Between Naps on the Porch




























































Entertaining Women
Entertaining Women

Hello, I'm Cherry Kay I was 40 before I realized that I am an artist. I love to paint, work in clay, rubber stamping, design tablescapes, entertain, and share ideas. I'm an interior designer wanna-be...no credentials, but lots of experience.

6 comments:

  1. I have also enjoyed reconnecting with childhood friends, but unfortunately we don't live near each other. Facebook has made it possible to keep in touch! I don't have any BLUE in my home and I really enjoyed spying on your table. The peacock dinner dishes are stunning! And the stemware is lovely! I am sure your birthday celebration for your friend was enjoyed by everyone - the menu sounded scrumptious! You always share so much with your friends!!

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  2. This place setting makes me very happy, too, Cherry Kay. I love the bold stripes with the exquisite china and cobalt blue crystal. I also love the strong whites in your centerpiece (and the tureen is so gorgeous). The Copeland Spode "Peacock" is a treasure. I am so happy you are blogging again, your work is a delight and an inspiration!

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  3. Love those Spode plates. Old Spode is a treasure. Glad to see you posting again. I've missed your posts!

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  4. Beautiful table in every detail, Cherry Kay. You know how to entertain! I know your friends felt the love. I'm blessed to have good friends from my childhood, and even though we don't see each other often, the bond is still there.

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  5. Oh my Cherry Kay, this table is magnificent. I love all the pop of color. Such bold shades of blue. It is refreshing to see a table with such striking colors.

    Your china collection is truly incredible. And your stripped tablecloth is fabulous. What an elegant birthday celebration. Happy to have you back.

    Fondly,

    Janet
    rosemary-thyme.blogspot.com

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  6. Hello CK,

    I love how the tiny prints on all 3 plates coordinate. And the colored glassware is just what is needed to tie everything together with the bold stripe. Great job! Regards, Robin

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