Lady of the (Napkin) Rings

If a burglar were to invade my house and open my dining room sideboard drawers hoping to find silver treasures, he would be disappointed.  Instead he would find my hoard (oops, I mean collection) of  napkin rings. Although it is pouring outside and much too cold to think about eating on the deck, I can think about setting my spring…

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Let’s Dish With Portmeirion and Tulips!

What says “Cuisine Kathleen” to you  more than GREEN ?     Did I hear incredible bargain ??? Or dishes  ?   In honor of the hostess of our new party  (I’m so excited about another dish party  I am shaking …. after all this is the reason I felt compelled to join the blogging world!) I set my table with everything green or …

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Irish Cloche

“Sir,” I asked in my most polite English, “are these cloches made here in Williamsburg?”   “Madam,” he exclaimed, “we are quite suspicious of strangers who so freely speak with French phrases, and do not take kindly to the French in our midst.  If you are referring to the bell glass, they are made nearby in Jamestown.”   The actors…

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Bird Wisdom

I know some birds mate for life. But how does Mrs. Birdie manage when Mr. Birdie retires? Seriously, HOW?? “Tweetie, where are you?  Tweetie, what are you doing?  Tweetie, where are you now?  Tweetie, can you come and play with me?  Tweetie?  Tweetie?  Tweetie?” Mr. Fun is home for a few weeks recovering from his surgery, and I am getting…

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Mr. Fun Comes Home

Mr. Fun is home from the hospital with his new titanium hip!  He is walking and free of pain, with only the muscle soreness expected when someone cuts you open and removes the largest joint in your body!    This bouquet of small spray roses came home with him.  A nice choice for a man, I think.   Usually I…

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Weather. It Changes.

“If you don’t like the weather  in New England, wait and it will change.” This year, in the strangest ways. In August, Hurricane Irene blew through, taking down one of my favorite backyard trees.   It was huge with pink spring flowers and deep plum leaves.  For days afterward, birds fluttered around the fallen limbs, as confused as I was mournful. …

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Tuscan Menu

Olive oil from the Bramasole orchards is light and sweet and I only use my treasured supply when I have the best ingredients! Basil and mint from my yard,  fresh, organic fruits, veggies and meats,  couscous,  and Italian bread from the best local baker  can be easily made into an impressive dinner. Just add the secret ingredient! Bramasole olive oil. I…

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Tuscan Sun Elixir

When I travel, one book always goes into my bag.   It has it all–adventure, food, travel, history, art, inspiration, romance, and most of all, beautiful prose, with descriptions of scenery and events so complete that I easily become totally immersed in its world. It is an escape I enjoy tremendously. And to celebrate the one year anniversary of my blog, …

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Independence and the Dog

Hi everyone!  We’re out on the deck today, and I’m trying to help Mom because she’s a little upset with me.    It all started yesterday after I had that super fun-tastic ride in the police cruiser.  I thought she would be happy to hear about my adventures, but ever since the nice policeman (who really liked my kisses) left,…

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Independence Day Table

  In just one week I will be celebrating the one year anniversary of my very first post!!  I remember so well the terror I felt as I clicked the “publish” button and the joy I felt when I received several positive comments and followers! I am republishing that post today–I hope you enjoy it. Please be sure to visit next…

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