Dreaming of Gardens

I knew it was going to be a lovely day. The morning sun was shining through the shutters and the forecast called for climbing temps. After feeding the pups and a quick breakfast for myself, I hurriedly finished the things I had planned for today and settled by the window with a pot of tea.

 

 And that got me dreaming of gardens! And all the flowers I'd like to plant in mine.

 

Sweet Treats and Hot Chocolate — A Buffet for Valentine's Day

I confess I have a soft spot for hot chocolate, preferably made with milk with a bit of whipping cream if available. Marshmallows on top are a plus. All through January I've had a hot chocolate station set up on the corner of the kitchen island with a choice of either milk chocolate or mint chocolate.

Knowing my winter fixation, my sweet MIL gave me a huge basket of chocolate drink fixings and snacks for Christmas! I've happily added the basket to my island setup.

 

Between our recent snow and ice storms — spurred on by a week of ultra low temps for Georgia — we invited her to join us last Sunday for a Valentine's sweet treats and hot chocolate buffet! 

Artistry and Romance — A Valentine's Table

With February 14 fast approaching, it's time to think about what type of table you might want to set for Valentine's Day! I know that not everyone celebrates this holiday, but I find it a welcome respite from the winter blues. It's a holiday that's very flexible — you can celebrate romantic love, love for your children, family bonds, or the strength of friendships. Or all at once!

 

I'm delighted that you're joining me today for I have a special treat in store for you! Including myself, there are eighteen stylists that have been organized by Rita of Panoply in a special tablescape hop to share our ideas for Valentine's Day tables with you. All the details are included at the bottom of this post.

    

I decided to set a table that celebrates Valentine's by focusing on romance through artistry.

A Snowy Wonderland Tablesetting

Snow fell across the foothills and mountains of north Georgia last week, more than any year since 2018. Kids in our neighborhood celebrated with snow ball fights and snowmen. All of which inspired me to set a snowy wonderland table!

   

The view from our front door as flakes settled quietly on the lawn and in the garden.

Festive Reindeer for an Effortless Table on New Year's Day

For the last few years, New Year's Eve has become a romantic evening savored by just the two of us. After a quiet dinner, we spend the evening at home, watching a movie and cuddling with the furry ones who are looking forward to special treats. Then we celebrate at midnight with good champagne!

Since moving to Georgia I've come to look forward to welcoming the New Year on January 1st in Southern style! It always involves an over-flowing table for the mid-day meal to be shared with family and friends. There's a number of specific foods to eat on New Year's Day to bring good luck, prosperity and fortune. While I haven't taken to all the traditional new year's day foods served here, I do enjoy this way of starting the year with optimism and camaraderie.