Explore Ireland: Dublin and Ancient Sites

Welcome to the blog today — I'm glad you could join me on a bit of exploration! Over the years we've taken a number of vacations that we enjoyed immensely. I have always intended to share them with you and I've decided that now is as good a time as any to start! (I have however shared vacation photos in several posts where they were the inspiration for styling tablescapes.) 

 

One of the trips we enjoyed the most was to Ireland. I had wanted to go there for a long time, since both Greg and I can trace our ancestry there. So off we flew, landing in Dublin. From there we headed north to the Boyne Valley in County Meath to explore Newgrange and the Hill of Slane.  

 

the River Boyne

  

 

Add Flare to Modern Tables with Beautiful Vintage Glassware

I have received many comments regarding the vintage glassware I use for styling tablescapes. So I thought I'd focus on that glassware today by sharing why I use it and how it adds flare to modern tables.

 

I'll start by saying I love crystal and glassware! I love the way it affects the play of light across the table whether it's from sunshine, candlelight, chandeliers or lamps. The shape, decoration, composition and clarity of the glassware make nearly endless combinations that add beauty and enjoyment to functional tableware. 

 

Today I'm concentrating on drinkware, though glass plates, vessels and candle holders all add their special touch to tablescapes. I also often use contemporary stemware and glasses for my tables, but I think by using vintage glassware you add a unique accent that makes a more personal statement. 

 

Navarre by Fostoria, 1973-1982

 

Fostoria began producing Navarre with its beautiful etching in clear glass in 1936. It proved to be their most popular pattern so they added several colors to the line beginning in 1973, which is why my azure stemware has an older feel to it.

 

 

A Romantic Dinner with Stunning Flowers, Elegant Dishes and Sparkling Glassware

Inspiration for setting tables can be found in many forms. One of my favorite sources for ideas are flowers — their colors, their seasonality, their forms and textures. Today I'm sharing a table that began with a stunning arrangement of flowers my husband gave me for my birthday. I wanted the table to be a lovely accompaniment for his romantic gesture. 

 

       

Destination: England — A Travel Adventure

I thought it was about time I devoted a full post to one of our travel adventures!  Although I've included photos from our travels in various tablescape posts that were inspired by the trips, I've been remiss in not actually sharing the trips themselves.

 

First up is England — we're hoping to visit the other parts of the UK soon. We began and ended our trip in London.

   

 

London  

 

A poignant installation of deep red ceramic poppies washed across the lawn in front of the Tower of London.  The breathtaking display featured 888,246 ceramic poppies in the art installation 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red' that served as a reminder of the lives lost during World War I and the lasting impact of conflict. 

 

    

Summertime Blues on a Carefree Table

Summer is coming! Temperatures are rising and I'm planning ways to stay cool during the long, lazy days of summer. One carefree way to enjoy simmering days and leisurely evenings is to surround myself in the cool blues of summer.