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Monday, August 24, 2015

Playing House


Last week I had lunch with a long time friend who reads my blog.


Liz asked me if I actually set a pretty table each night


and surprisingly, the answer is yes.


The other night I set a colorful table because I received a fabulous surprise package from Rita of Panoply.


The vintage table cloth is absolutely gorgeous


as are the dish towels Rita included in the package - I used them as napkins in this table setting.


As I set the table last night for a dinner with a wonderful family, Steve teased me saying, " you do love to play house!"


He is absolutely right, I do love to play house, especially when we have guests.


There is always a lot of mixing and matching of dishes and flatware when we have a crowd, but I brought the table setting together with linen napkins stenciled with A B C D & 1 2 3 4.


With the numbers and letters on the napkins, I decided to use alphabet quote cards I made a few years ago in the centerpiece.


I purposely used the A quote because it reminded me of our guest Manny and I loved that his daughter, Haley, said she thought immediately of her father when she read it. - Manny asked if he could take the card home to hang in his office.


Today's table setting was inspired by the basket of rudbekia which made me think of the book, The Secrets of Pistoulet.


The dishes were a gift from Kris of Junk Chic Cottage who won them on a Pfaltzgraff giveaway - the bright colors of the dishes don't quite go with Kris's white decor.


A quote on the back of the book explains one of the reasons that I like to set a nice table each night.


Steve prepares our meals with love so it is only fitting that I set a table worthy of his efforts.


My mother had beautiful linens that she passed down to me, some in absolutely perfect condition, because she kept them in the cupboard and did not enjoy them.


I have cupboards full of objects perfect for table settings


some are even on display, but everything gets used.


Playing house is easy with all my colorful flatware


and pretty dishes.


So, even if I am eating in the garden,


I take the time to set a pretty table.
at

68 comments:

  1. UnknownAugust 25, 2015 at 1:24 AM

    Oh my gosh - just beautiful Carol - I like playing house too - ( or rather I did until we bought this fixer upper LOL )
    Those dishes from Kris are so perfect for your home !
    xox

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  2. FlowerLady LorraineAugust 25, 2015 at 2:43 AM

    What a delightful post!

    Have a lovely week, 'playing house'.

    FlowerLady

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  3. Kirby CarespodiAugust 25, 2015 at 2:48 AM

    You know, I own about five different sets of dishes, but I generally just use my everyday stuff. I guess getting the others out is such a hassle, I never do it! That will change when we remodel the kitchen and I have a spot for those five sets.

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  4. Castles Crowns and CottagesAugust 25, 2015 at 3:26 AM

    Oh Carol, may I take a seat? I have loved to play house since I was big enough to walk. I've had several play house: my father built one just for me in the backyard and big enough for adults to walk into....I had one of those metal ones from the early sixties with all the cute little plastic furniture, then I had a wooden one that was like a mountain cabin, housing wooden furniture. But my absolute favorite playhouse is the HOME I live in now, that my husband has lovingly upgraded and adorned, just for me. I too love to play house especially for guests, and we had dinner guests the other night and I could feel a tingle of excitement as I set the table.

    I LOVE YOUR TABLE SETTINGS and cards. Next time, I'm making some with new words with a specific theme. Oh the possibilities my friend!

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  5. Castles Crowns and CottagesAugust 25, 2015 at 3:54 AM

    PS....I just read your lovely visit on my blog, and yes, IT WILL BE WONDERFUL!

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  6. Betty August 25, 2015 at 3:58 AM

    I love everything. Your blogs is one of the reasons I have been putting more color into our home. Wait til you see what I have in mind for our bedroom with color. Love those dishes you have, lucky girl.

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  7. Vickie @ Ranger 911August 25, 2015 at 4:07 AM

    I think it's a wonderful tradition to set a pretty table! Your gift from Rita has your name written all over it, Carol!

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  8. KayAugust 25, 2015 at 4:23 AM

    Your house is just so gorgeous, it always brightens up my day to see all your beautiful things. I wish my house looked half a beautiful :-)

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  9. Deb @ Frugal Little BungalowAugust 25, 2015 at 4:33 AM

    And they are fun to see so don't stop! :)

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  10. Deb @ Frugal Little BungalowAugust 25, 2015 at 4:33 AM

    And they are fun to see so don't stop! :)

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  11. must love junkAugust 25, 2015 at 4:42 AM

    You always have such fun, colorful tablescapes! (And of course I adore the last pic of the white place setting! LOVE the napkin ring!!) :)
    Susan

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  12. Linda @ A La CarteAugust 25, 2015 at 5:13 AM

    It dose make the meal more special to have a lovely table! You do it so well and not 'over the top' at all! I enjoy your colorful dishes and cloths! I love that your friend wanted that A card for his office.
    hugs,
    Linda

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  13. Linda @ Itsy Bits And PiecesAugust 25, 2015 at 6:17 AM

    This charming post still has me smiling, Carol. Your table settings are so lovely and welcoming...every meal would feel special. I love the idea of "playing house"...that's exactly what it is to me, and I never even realized it!

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  14. Pamela GordonAugust 25, 2015 at 6:43 AM

    Oh how I love this colourful post and your beautiful table settings! I have many beautiful linens but my dishes and cutlery are so plain that I don't have the creativity that you do when it comes to table setting. Yes, playing house is fun and something we should never outgrow! Have a delightful week. Pam

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  15. DawnAugust 25, 2015 at 6:44 AM

    I had no idea you has so many pretty flatware sets :) all in my colors of course! Do you happen to know the tablecloth pattern you were gifted?

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  16. KellyAugust 25, 2015 at 7:06 AM

    I think those retro vintage tablecloths work perfectly in your home! I love the colorful dishes you were gifted from Kris. They work nicely with all of the other items on your table. I'm sure sitting down to a pretty table setting makes your food taste even better! I'm kind of lazy about setting a pretty table on a daily basis. I really only do it for special occasions.

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  17. Jackie and Joel SmithAugust 25, 2015 at 7:06 AM

    We consider our home in Greece our 'playhouse' and hope to sometime (in our lifetime) to have as many cute decorations as you. I bought plates here and we are starting the process of taking my set of six plates and salad plates and serving dishes to Greece (they have a poppy design that I couldn't find there in case you are questioning my sanity) and I figure sometime by the start of 2017 we should have gotten them all there. It takes awhile when limited to suitcases. . .but you have raised the bar on cute with this post. I am inspired!!

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  18. LaurieAugust 25, 2015 at 7:13 AM

    So, so pretty!

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  19. bobbieAugust 25, 2015 at 7:15 AM

    You do Steve's cooking proud!! Love all your settings ~

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  20. Kim August 25, 2015 at 7:53 AM

    I love playing house, too and you do it so well!! Love those pretty dishes from Kris and that tablecloth. So many sweet gifts from sweet friends!

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  21. KellyAugust 25, 2015 at 8:40 AM

    Such amazing artists enjoying there blessings and creating such magic at there home by the sea!!! Thanks for sharing! Tis always such fun and a pleasure to stop by!!! ; )

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  22. Patricia @ 9th and DenverAugust 25, 2015 at 9:00 AM

    I'm sure both your family and your guests feel loved and appreciated when they sit down to eat at your table!

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  23. Butterfly 8)(8 Bungalow August 25, 2015 at 9:47 AM

    The tablecloth is perfect! xoox Su

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  24. cynthia lee designsAugust 25, 2015 at 11:06 AM

    Your table setting is very pretty!! I usually set the table every night for dinner....but now that I'm crafting jewelry for my 2 upcoming shows...I'm working at the dining room table on one end of the table. We still have room to eat, but it's not as pretty in there right now.
    ~Cindy

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  25. Down by the seaAugust 25, 2015 at 12:36 PM

    Your table looks so pretty I always enjoy seeing you playing house! Sarah x

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  26. Cheryl @ The Creative Me and My McGAugust 25, 2015 at 12:48 PM

    I wish I lived in your neck of the woods...I barely get dinner on the table everyday let alone set it with pretty plates...what a treat!!

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  27. LorrieAugust 25, 2015 at 1:07 PM

    You play house very well. I like setting a pretty table for every day, too. It makes the meal an event rather than a duty. A good time for connecting around the table.
    Pretty vintage giveaway!

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    Replies
    1. Art and SandAugust 25, 2015 at 2:15 PM

      Your comment just made me realize another important reason I set the table. As a child, my parents were very involved in local events. I followed suit in school, so when I was in high school, we could actually go 4 -5 weeks without sitting down at the table for dinner together. The conversations Steve and I share at dinner are so important.

      Delete
  28. Betsy@My Salvaged TreasuresAugust 25, 2015 at 1:16 PM

    Everything tastes better with a pretty table setting. Love all your beautiful linens and your colorful flatware drawer. Bon Apetite!!!

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  29. Susan ~ Southern FascinationsAugust 25, 2015 at 2:18 PM

    Carol, I do the same on the kitchen bar where we have our meals. Pretty plates, mats, and napkins make our little cozy spot just right for the two of us. The nearby dining table is usually set and changed out as the mood or inspiration hits. This Sunday it was a festive place with an orange cloth and brightly striped dishes to celebrate the husband and son's August birthdays. The "trash pile garden" continues with an ample supply of colorful zinnias. Your posts are always motivating...now to update my little corner of the world!

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  30. Vicky HuntAugust 25, 2015 at 2:22 PM

    I just love that you do this! And, your tables are always simply lovely. Have a wonderful evening.

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  31. Rita C at PanoplyAugust 25, 2015 at 3:15 PM

    Carol, I don't think I can add anything to all the spot-on comments you've received on this post, but your home is so full of good energy and it's so apparent! I love them all, and please don't ever stop playing house. I love playing house too, and my husband always says that when I start a tablescape, or when I rotate vintage items through the house. I get to do that on a larger scale at the antique mall, and my sister & I have enjoyed it together for years. I hope we can continue for many years to come.
    Rita

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  32. StaceyAugust 25, 2015 at 4:29 PM

    I love to play house too! I have to say..you do it very well. The colors, quotes, and beautiful dishes were probably a great treat for your friends.

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    Replies
    1. Art and SandAugust 25, 2015 at 6:22 PM

      I enjoy setting the table and although Steve teases me, I know he appreciates that I take the time to showcase his meals. He really is a great cook!

      Delete
  33. Leslie HarrisAugust 25, 2015 at 4:56 PM

    Carol your tables are so creative and beautiful but what makes them so special is the warmth and love that fuels all your hospitality. I'm a believer in using all my collections too. And by the way thank you so much for your recent comment on my pineapple centerpieces. I enjoy hearing about your conversations with your dear friends and I also love hearing about your kids. It sounds like KC is really serious about her boyfriend. I hope you had a great time in Sacramento---or did you go yet? I'm wondering how close you were to my old stomping grounds.
    hugs,
    Leslie

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    Replies
    1. Art and SandAugust 25, 2015 at 6:22 PM

      We leave tomorrow morning for San Francisco. We will meet up with Kendra and Jake and Jake's parents (first time) at the ball park for a Giants game. Thursday night we have reservations at Chez Panisse and we are really excited about that experience. Kendra says she is more excited about Chez Panisse than she is about the ball game because she goes all the time. We won't be in Sacramento until Friday for a family gathering and we will actually be in Folsom.

      Delete
  34. KathyAugust 25, 2015 at 5:38 PM

    Carol, I adore seeing your beautiful table settings and I am envious that you have that opportunity every night! I do not like to cook so setting the table for holiday meals was always my favorite part. Somehow it doesn't fit well in my lifestyle but maybe someday!

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  35. SylviaAugust 25, 2015 at 5:48 PM

    Carol, I just love your bright color schemes. Isn't it great to have company. Sylvia D

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  36. MelanieAugust 25, 2015 at 7:20 PM

    Your tablescapes are so pretty! Heck, you could make a simple sandwich look good with those settings. :-) I love that vintage tablecloth and it is absolutely perfect for your house. I don't normally make fancy tablescapes, but every meal is always eaten on "real" plates and with cloth napkins. No paper products for us.

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  37. Joy JunktionAugust 25, 2015 at 7:55 PM

    I honestly cannot remember the last time I actually sat at a table to eat a meal at home. {Years, definitely years ago}. Once in a great while I will go out with a friend and have a meal at a restaurant and use a cloth napkin. However, most often, I grab a frozen meal or peanut butter sandwich and just sit in front of the TV by myself to eat! Your tables, linens, flatware and dishes are so colorful and fun, I'm so happy to know there are people who still eat at a beautifully set table!! You and your Steve make a great team! Blessings, Cindy xoxo

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  38. Row homes and CobblestonesAugust 25, 2015 at 9:02 PM

    Carol.
    I too love to play house. I always enjoy seeing your table setting and arrangements. Created with love and whimsy. I love the runner you made with Ivy and dried Roses, so pretty. Being a guest at your table would make a person feel special and full of excitement knowing the visit will be enchanting and unique. Lovely gifts from lovely friends.
    xoxo,
    Vera


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  39. Magali@TheLittleWhiteHouseAugust 26, 2015 at 3:45 AM

    Like you, I like using what I have rather than keeping it safe and never even see it, but I'm not as dedicated as you to create a tablescape every evening!

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  40. karen@somewhatquirkyAugust 26, 2015 at 6:44 AM

    I love it that in your little bitty house you make room for all these symbols of graciousness and hospitality. I want to come over for dinner!

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  41. Daytona DamselAugust 26, 2015 at 7:25 AM

    I love, love, love that table cloth. I am like Cindy in that I eat in my chair most of the time. When my husband was alive I used to enjoy setting a nice table and candle light. I have always used cloth napkins as my stepfather would have had a fit if paper was used and I agree with him that those paper napkins are worthless. Maybe setting the table nicely just for me would inspire me to eat healthier. I will give it a try. Thanks for sharing your beautiful home with us. Debbie

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  42. Celestina MarieAugust 26, 2015 at 8:44 AM

    Hi Carol, love all your pretty settings and the accents that make them perfect. What special gifts to use among your table settings. The tablecloth is gorgeous. Loved the quote. Always an inspiration to visit. Playing house is the best!!
    Hugs, cm

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  43. LindaAugust 26, 2015 at 10:35 AM

    What a delightful post!!! I love how you set your table! You are an inspiration! My sweet Louis Dean likes to eat in his easy chair so we use lap trays fairly often. There's no reason I can't 'set the table' on a tray!! That's exactly what I plan to do!!

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  44. SueAugust 26, 2015 at 10:59 AM

    I have like that particular Pfaltzgraff pattern ever since I first laid eyes on it years ago. The tablecloth from Panoply looks very much like one my Mom had and brought back lovely memories for me.

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  45. CynthiaAugust 26, 2015 at 11:09 AM

    Carol love the quotes and the dishes are killer. Deep rich color. You have a few collection of goodies

    Cindy

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  46. Cathy @ My 1929 CharmerAugust 26, 2015 at 3:39 PM

    I am always loving your love of colors since I love color too! Always enjoy your tablescapes...enjoy your trip!

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  47. podsoAugust 26, 2015 at 5:09 PM

    i always enjoy seeing your table settings. And I love all the color.

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  48. ConnieAugust 27, 2015 at 8:08 AM

    Dear Sweet Carol, you need to put together a book of your own. Your cottage and your story along with all the amazingly beautiful ways you decorate and express your love of home . . . would turn into a best seller. I'll be one of your first buyers.
    I enjoyed this post so much . . . but then I can not think of a single thing that you have posted that I haven't enjoyed.
    Have a wonderful weekend.
    Connie :)

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  49. BeachGypsyAugust 27, 2015 at 12:37 PM

    So pretty and I love all the linens!!

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  50. chateau chicAugust 27, 2015 at 7:07 PM

    I've always loved seeing the beautiful, fun, pretty, and inspirational table settings you create! You have more variety of dinnerware and accessories than anyone I know. :-)) Sure makes "playing house" so much fun!
    Mary Alice

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  51. Mary@mydogsmygardenandmaryAugust 28, 2015 at 12:56 AM

    I have always loved playing house and I change things around and re-do all the time. Your tablescapes are so pretty and I love all the beautiful colors.
    Enjoy your vacation in SFO and have a delightful fun time.
    Mary

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  52. Helen PhilippsAugust 28, 2015 at 12:58 AM

    I love playing house too and always have! I love to see your table settings they are always so creative and inspiring.
    Happy weekend.
    Helen xox

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  53. PoppyAugust 28, 2015 at 6:52 AM

    Playing house with so many pretty plates, colourful linens, and beautiful flowers definitely makes a house feel like home, and your home is perfect for playing in!!

    Poppy

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  54. AnaAugust 28, 2015 at 1:57 PM

    Oh Carol, I love how much you love color. Your tablescape and whole house is always so beautifully colorful, cheery and dreamy.

    Hugs,
    ❤️Ana

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  55. JunkchiccottageAugust 28, 2015 at 4:04 PM

    Hi Carol,
    I love to see your pretty table set. I think it is fabulous that you set the table every night and do so much when expecting guests.
    Love that you love the dishes I won and gifted to you. They are so you and look so pretty when you use them. Love that you personalized your table setting for your guests. That makes them feel so special. Have a great week end.
    Kris

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  56. Patty AntleAugust 28, 2015 at 6:59 PM

    We have such a loving blogging community. It's so nice to have met you personally. Carol, your tablescapes are so cheerful and welcoming.

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  57. Kim @ Savvy Southern StyleAugust 28, 2015 at 7:11 PM

    You have the cutest most colorful things to play house with. Wish my hubby cooked.

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  58. Ricki TreleavenAugust 29, 2015 at 4:20 PM

    I love it when you play house and post about it. Your cottage is the most cheerful one on blogland, truly. I love the primary colors in your adorable cottage home. Love the table, too. :)

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  59. Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. OlsonAugust 30, 2015 at 9:36 AM

    Carol, I love playing house as well; but you my friend do it so superbly! The gift from Rita is just perfect!! Love the cute alphabet cards and the Black Eyes are always so cheerful. The other day my son in the cupboard to get a plate and said, "I don't know what to use, these seem too pretty for every day dishes." I told him, they might be pretty, but they are all for using! I have got to get some of that fun flatware!!
    hugs,
    Jann

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  60. Lowcarb team memberAugust 30, 2015 at 10:13 AM

    Such a lovely read again. I do enjoy 'hopping' over to see you.
    So colourful too ... a joy, thank you.

    All the best Jan

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  61. HWIT BLOGGAugust 30, 2015 at 10:36 AM

    So colourful and lovely! It´s such a pleasure to visit your blog...
    Have a great new week, take care!

    Titti

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  62. RueSeptember 5, 2015 at 10:12 AM

    And you play house so well, Carol :)

    I set a table overnight, except for movie night, when we use our tv trays. I think it makes meals more enjoyable and I know my family appreciates it.

    xo

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  63. RueSeptember 5, 2015 at 10:13 AM

    that would be "every night" LOL

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  64. White Lace and PromisesSeptember 7, 2015 at 10:47 AM

    Beautiful as usual. You really do this everyday? How amazing! My husband works at the kitchen table and he gets aggravated when he even has to move the centerpiece. I actually finally put it in the closet this morning.

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  65. CarlaSeptember 14, 2015 at 8:00 AM

    So Pretty. I never get bored with your post. The ever changing surroundings, inspiration and colorful.

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