Red, white and black all over - it's time to set the table!

Welcome to my home. I'm glad you came. The Mrs. set the table just for you. She said I was her inspiration. If you'll notice, I'm red, white and black all over! So sit a spell and make yourself at home. Oh, and the Mrs wants you to know that I came to her through a special friend in Florida named Brandy who sent me to live with her. She's so grateful for Brandy's friendship that she treats me extra special!

The Mrs. chose to polish some silver because she knew you'd be showing up. Isn't it cool the way the table reflects in the Mrs.' mom in law's silver pitcher. It's perfect for serving an iced beverage.

The Mrs. just loves these fancy carnations. I will say they make the table smell extra special. The Mrs picked these vases up at the Mr.'s last class reunion. Four bottles tied together with waxed thread and adorned with a silver feathered friend. Who could resist this?

They just really look pretty up close. Ooh I wish you could smell how wonderful they are!

 The Mrs. brought out the silver mini-me napkin rings to hold the gathered red napkins together. She's had both so long she doesn't remember from where they came. I'd say she got the napkin rings at Stein Mart several years ago, but she didn't ask me.

One thing the Mrs. didn't have to polish was her everyday Gorham stainless. It's got just the perfect shine to fit right in.

 Here's a close-up of the silver pitcher. Don't you love the band around the top?

 The Mrs. did just pick these red goblets at Stein Mart pretty recently. She didn't want to add one more set of glasses to the mix, but I convinced her that they would be perfect for today, for Valentine's, Christmas and so many more occasions. Help me think of more!

  See how it all came together? Black and white plaid placemats, red napkins, and those wonderful fowl plates. They have no mark, but I remember clearly when she placed a call to this great store here in Lubbock named Hulla B'lu back when it was still downtown. And then she sent her son to pick them up!! And he went. And they all came home in one piece. A setting for 8 and her son and her car. Sadly, there is no maker's mark on the bottom of the dishes.

 She even dressed me up a bit today. Added a kerchief from a cocktail napkin tied loosely around my neck. Do you think it makes me look distinguished? The Mrs. said it's because I'm so white, I need a bit of color.

Since the Mrs. cataloged the napkins she can find them so easily! Now they are all in one place. She says the placemats are next. Oy vey!

  She brought out her silver gravy boat. I think she plans on putting salad dressing in there. I think she'd better put an underplate underneath! What do you think?

 The Mrs. just loves these Riedel wine glasses. She says they remind her of the bistros in Paris. I think they are just easier to handle than a spindly ol' wine glass.

  Well, if it were the Mrs.'  back side in this photo, I don't think you'd be seeing it! Oh well, it's just me, so what does she care.  Here's a tip from me. She was flustered that this set of dishes didn't have bread plates. So I told her to just take the saucers for the cups and use those. The indentation is so minor that you have to look twice to notice!

The Mrs. was pretty lucky to get this Paula Deen bread board at Big Lots a few weeks ago. She uses a wood preservative on it to keep it looking it's best. And yes, it's food safe!

 See, with a few slices of bread, a spreader and some butter, who can tell?

 The candles are lit, and the evening is near. The guests are about to arrive, so it's about time for me to shut up and let the party begin.

 Did you notice the Mrs. has me sitting on a red tray? Does she think I'll make a mess? I think it's just so there is a bit more red on the table.

 I remember the day well when she found these hurricanes at an estate sale. These are etched glass and not nary a flaw! They just make regular candle holders so special.

It's beginning to look quite festive now.. I'd better be quiet now lest the guests come in to a narrating chicken.

One last view of the place setting.

Here's a close up of the plate. Aren't my relatives just divine??


Well, I'm right glad you stopped in. I'll tell the Mrs. you came by. She loves to read your comments. And I know she's going to be linking with the lovely Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for the Thursday tablescape celebration.Be sure to click the image below and go see all the beautiful tables to inspire you.