The Gentle Season
It has been a hard winter, hasn't it? And yes, it's still with us, but - we've all seen those small, umistakable signs that the cold is receding, and warmer, gentler times are ahead.
And, while I'm talking about the weather, I'm talking about something more, too. I'm talking about us. Harsh weather can be hard on the soul; it can make us a little more introspective, a little less likely to smile, maybe a tad to quick to rush to judgment.
It's understandable. For every moment in which I've savored a hot cup of coffee snuggled up in my favorite sweater, I've had a crankier version of me that's been less than patient in the grocery checkout, or when there's yet another muddy footprint in the hall.
That's when I turn to those lovely signs of Spring's arrival to cheer me up. I'll grab a pastel or bright color from the closet (anything but grey and black!), make a salad chock full of vibrant veggies, or read about a tropical get-away. My body may still be here in Winter, but no reason my mind can't escape to a balmier locale.
I also find our wonderful family of artisan handcraft fans turn to our Mayolica collection (OK, the world knows it as "Majolica," but in the colonial regions of Mexico where our artisans make these pieces by hand, "Mayolica" reigns supreme. Who am I to argue with such maestros?).
Our Majolica/Mayolica is created with a loving focus on flowers, birds, butterflies; all the welcoming, beautiful signs of Spring that we all need. The colors are vibrant, yet soft and almost Renaissance-like.
I reach for a favorite mug, or put a few pieces of our Mayolica Mexican pottery on my table, and then I stand back and watch the smiles begin.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” – Virginia Woolf.
While there is no end to the personality of a well-heeled table, there is something to be said for the elegant simplicity of the under-stated table.
New Year Reflections: Loved Ones Around the Table
Take this day, this month and the new year to reflect with gratitude on the blessings small and large which have come your way. For so many that are in loss, may peace be upon you as you move forward with memories and love. Some of our loved ones get to be around our table this year, and some reside in our hearts.
Fall is approaching. There's a tinge in the morning air and the leaves will be arrayed in vibrant color soon. All of this seasonal change calls for delicious comfort food and equally delectable artisan handcrafted dinnerware.