...family, friends, home and other tidbits of a blessed life

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Blooming Romance Tablescape

Come live with me and be my love,

And we will all the pleasures prove

That hills and valleys, dale and field,

And all the craggy mountains yield.

There will we sit upon the rocks

And see the shepherds feed their flocks,

By shallow rivers, to whose falls

Melodious birds sing madrigals.

There will I make thee beds of roses

And a thousand fragrant posies,

A cap of flowers, and a kirtle

Embroider'd all with leaves of myrtle.

A gown made of the finest wool

Which from our pretty lambs we pull,

Fair lined slippers for the cold,

With buckles of the purest gold.

A belt of straw and ivy buds

With coral clasps and amber studs;

And if these pleasures may thee move,

Come live with me and be my love.

Thy silver dishes for they meat

As precious as the gods do eat,

Shall on an ivory table be

Prepared each day for thee and me.

The shepherd swains shall dance and sing
 For thy delight each May-morning;

If these delights thy mind may move,

Then live with me and be my love.
(The Passionate Shepherd to His Love by Christopher Marlow)









Cast:
Dishes: Arzberg Schumann Antique Roses (my favorite dishes)
Gold Flatware: International
Wines: Antique, Libbey Rock Sharpe
Napkins: Irish linen hand sewn by myself
Vase: Mikasa Cheers votive!
Crochet tablecloth: handmade by my mother
Red linen tablecloth: Williams Sonoma
Roses: Sam's foral
Metal cherub garden piece: Estate sale
Votives: crystal by Dollah Turee
Heart boxes: made by myself

Happy Valentine's Day to one and all. May the day be filled with sweetness, kindness and many blessings for each one of you. 


Veal Piccata
(my husband's favorite meal in the world)



1/2 lb veal scaloppini, pounded  into thin slices
salt and pepper
1/4 cup flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 lemons
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
2 tablespoons capers (drained if in brine, rinsed if in salt)
3 tablespooons parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes

 This dish cooks quickly, so have everything prepared and in small bowls!
Turn on oven to 200 degrees and place ovenproof plate in it to warm up the plate. Do not skip this step.
Saute veal in two or more batches. Slice one lemon in half lengthwise (end to end) and cut one of the halves into very thin slices. Over strainer, squeeze the juice of the remaining 1 1/2 lemons. Mince garlic and parsley and place in separate small bowls. 

Put a heavy bottomed fry pan on the stove over medium high heat. Quickly, season the veal slices liberally with salt and pepper and dredge in flour. Shake off excess. Place one tablespoon oil in pan and cook the meat for about 2 minutes on each side. Don't flip over and over. When done, place on plate in oven. 

With the pan on medium high heat, add the garlic and saute until fragrant (about 10 seconds). Deglaze the pan with wine (add the wine and scrape up whatever browned bits might be stuck on the bottom of the pan). Add the lemon slices and reduce until there's about 1/3 cup liquid remaining (5 minutes or less). As soon as the sauce reaches a boil, turn off the heat and add the parsley. The goal with the last bit of heat is just to warm the lemon jice, capers and garlic rather than cook them. 

Add the cubed butter a piece at a time which gently whisking. This will thicken the sauce. Serve spooned over veal and gnocchi. A dinner salad and fresh bread is a great way to finish off this meal.

I'm linking up to Susan's Tablescape Thursday. Be sure to drop in late Wednesday evening or Thursday to see all the beautiful setting in store just for you. 
I'm also linking up to The Little Round Table - colors of love party. You'll want to drop in there as well! 
Linked up to The Tablscaper's Seasonal Sunday too!


61 comments:

Mid-Atlantic Martha said...

This is beautifully romantic! Absolutly breathtaking. I love the crocheted overlay -- the china - the stems - the cherubs - everything is so beautifully coordinated into total loveliness.

Cindy said...

Oh my!!! What beautiful verse and photos! Such a romantic setting, too. Ah, I love it!
Hugs, Cindy

Entertaining Women said...

So many things to love here. The Arzberg Schumann Antique Roses is beyond beautiful...I love the embossed furl on that magnificent cream soup....of course it's your favorite. Did you collect it, or is it a family treasure? The goblet reminds me perhaps of a Heisey design, but truth be told...that's a great big guess. There is a shop in Ft. Worth called Dishes From the Past. I think that if you send them a photo and an inquiry, they would be kind to try to help you identify it. They always want to see the stem of the goblet. Evidently that is the first identification clue as to maker. I spent so much time with Christopher Marlow in an honors seminar on Renaissance writing. The pictures that you placed with each phrase were perfectly chosen. Good job. I think that you should frame and/or make note cards out of that last sepia toned shot...it's amazingly wonderful...gee...do you think that I absorbed this post? Thank you for sharing your wonderful design and recipe...and for stopping by my post. Oh, I read Susan's article on strange houses. I sent her a link on the steel house in Ransom Canyon. Cherry Kay

Red Couch Recipes said...

I have never seen the Antique Rose dishes -- they are so beautiful! I love the poem also. Joni

alison said...

What a gorgeously romantic tablescape - just right for sharing with a loved one on Valentines Day and the words match so perfectly...gave me shivers! Thanks so much for stopping by my little blog and leaving a lovely comment. Lovely to 'meet' you via Sarah's Garden party. Alison x

xinex said...

Oh Marlis, this is so beautiful and so romantic. It makes me wanna fly home right now and create a table for two in the back porch, lol. I love the dinnerware....Christine

Miss Char said...

Your table is stunning, all the elements come together seamlessly. Thank you for sharing your romantic setting with us.

Dianne said...

Marlis, I think those would be my favorite dishes too, they are so beautiful as is your entire table. Beautiful photos especially the dark blue sky.

Linda (More Fun Less Laundry) said...

Marlis, this is the MOST romantic post-the poem and the gorgeous dishes--I've never seen them before. Did you find them all together? The linens and the flowers are also beautiful and you are so lucky to have that wonderful table covering crocheted by your mother. Linda

Sydnee said...

Absolutely beautiful...You are the best when it comes to tablescapes....You should have your own show on TV.....Love it

Anonymous said...

Hi Marlis! OH, your table is gorgeous! What a beautiful lace tablecloth! our centerpiece is so lovely too. The poem just puts on the finishing touch.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

Alycia Nichols said...

Oh, Marlis...how pretty, especially the cream soup bowls! They are absolutely beautiful!!! I think you know how much I love the very feminine look, and your table is right on point! There is a lot of romance associated with this table setting!!!!! Oo-la-la!

Jocelyn said...

Your table is gorgeous! Love the tablescape.

Jocelyn
http://justalittlesouthernhospitality.blogspot.com/

Mary said...

Your Antique Rose dishes...Be Still My Heart! What a beautifully romantic table for Valentine's Day!

Debbie said...

Ahh!! I love those shots with the blue hour! They are my favorites, but the whole table is just so lovely on its own. I really love the way you have greenery on the pedestal above it.

And the red under the overlay? Perfect.

And it was hard to concentrate while reading one of my favorite poems of all time.

Great post all the way around, Marlis, and a really, really beautiful table.

Tricia said...

What a beautiful post, Marlis! I love that poem, and your photography is gorgeous! I can see why those are your favorite dishes -- such wonderful cream soup bowls! And your tablecloth is SUCH a treasure from your mother. Just lovely!

Maryrose said...

Hi Marlis,
Your tablesetting is delicious. That china is so gorgeous and your progression into evening was stunning.
Loved it all.
Maryrose

Elaine said...

Marlis,

Thank you so much for stopping by Dishing With Carafaye. I'm especially glad because it brought me to your lovely blog. I love your crochet cloth, especially since your mom made it...and pairing it with handmade napkins...how wonderful!

Designs on 47th Street said...

Hi Marlis, How many times have I told you I love your look? You have the best taste. Love your beautiful, beautiful tablecloth. Oh, it's all very romantic and just the perfect Valentine table in my opinion. :)

Donna

The Tablescaper said...

What a perfect table for Valentine's Day. I love that china. The roses are so glorious.

- The Tablescaper

Tess said...

This table is exquisite!! Your dishes are gorgeous and the poetry is perfect! A wonderfully romantic table!

Lynn said...

What a beautiful table Marlis! Lovin' the amazing crochet topper and delicate rose dishes! Fun blue hour shots too-enjoy:@)

Donna@Conghaile Cottage said...

Your table is a masterpiece AND your favorite dishes JUST MAY be mine if I can find some. They are GORGEOUS!!! I'm going to say my favorite thing here is divided in two categories. #1 is your Mother's tablecloth! WOW that is breathtaking! How lucky you are to have it...#2 is Your talents, the linen(LOVE THOSE) and Your Heart boxes(I also LOVE THOSE). Talent really runs in your family. This is my favorite post so far!
Happy Valentines Day to you,
Hugs, Donna

Marigene said...

Breathtaking...that crocheted tablecloth is my favorite thing on the table, simply exquisite, Marlis.
The china is beautiful...everything is! Thank you for such a wonderful post.

On Crooked Creek said...

Marlis,
I was transformed to another era. . .very Victorian. Long flowing gowns and men with ruffled shirts. I was swooning as he read to me this poem of his love to be. Ah~h~h. . .I am a hopeless romantic! Born not in the proper era , but you, my dear transcended time for me today! Thank you for your visit On Crooked Creek and your sweet comment today! Stop by again, soon.
Fondly,
Pat

bj said...

OOO, so romantic. The dishes...just beautiful. What a lovely poem.
Have a romantic and loving Valentine's Day, dear one.
xo bj

Pam - @diy Design Fanatic said...

Beautiful! I love your vintage linens!

Deanna said...

Takes my breath away!!!

Beautiful to see,
d from homehaven

Unknown said...

Marlis~~ Beautiful! So many things to take in. Going to take a second look. Love the napkins..great job! The heart shaped boxes looked like a "fun to do" project and I am sure you will treasure that lovely tablecloth your mother made. Your dishes are amazing!
Andrea

The Charm of Home said...

Your dishes are gorgeous! The blue hour photos and the roses are so beautiful. Lovely table cover and napkins too.
Sherry

Phyllis said...

Thank you for the Valentine gift of your lovely table setting and the love poem. I feel as if I have been treated to a private showing and party. Where do I begin....I loved every part of your post....the poem, the china, the crystal, the hand decorated boxes, the cherub peeking through the red roses....it all stole my heart and "wowed" me!! I am new to blogging and would love a visit from you.

Kathy said...

Pure romance and elegance, perfectly put together. Happy TT.

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Perfect for Valentine's Day. Such a lovely poem too. The dishes are beautiful. Such a delight to visit and appreciate all of your pretties.

Unknown said...

Marlis,

Your tablescape is so beautiful. So many things to comment on. I knew your dishes were German and I can see why you love them. Have never seen such a delicate rose pattern. You are indeed blessed to have such wonderful family heirlooms. The wine glasses are also lovely. The recipe looks yummy - one of my favorites and a perfect Valentines meal! Also, love the crafty vintage valentines boxes! Happy Valentines Day!
Mrs. S

Anonymous said...

Just simply beautiful Marlis. Every bit of this post is fabulous!

Candy @ The Little Round Table said...

Good Morning Marlis!

What a beautiful post! So many things that I love, but your mother's tablecloth is so very special. It is very beautiful.

Thanks so much for joining my first linky party on The Little Round Table and I hope that you will be able to visit again soon.

Candy

Bonnie Bee said...

Oh Marlis.. this table must have come directly out of a dream.. just gorgeous. Your mother's crochet table cloth is amazing! Those talents are few & far between.

Lynne (lynnesgiftsfromtheheart) said...

Incredibly gorgeous... hugs ~lynne~

Bill said...

Just spectacular, Marlis! I love everything about this table: the dishes, linens, flowers, the poetry, the photography. Perfection!

Janice Stewart said...

Those antique rose dishes are to die for. Can't wait to try your recipe. Do you take requests?..lol.. Would love a good black bean dip...hint....hint....

Kathleen said...

How beautiful! I love the china, so delicate. And Irish linen naps, that's the best! ♣♣

Chubby Chieque said...

Hi Marlis,

It looks like you have a great day overthere. I am envious §:-)

I do love every detail... small or big! They are adorable, spec the flatwares.

Happy TS & have a great week-end ahead.

x0x0,
/chie

Chubby Chieque said...

Hi Marlis,

It looks like you have a great day overthere. I am envious §:-)

I do love every detail... small or big! They are adorable, spec the flatwares.

Happy TS & have a great week-end ahead.

x0x0,
/chie

Thoughtfully Blended Hearts said...

Everything is so pretty here...the last photo looks like a still life waiting to be painted!!!
Thanks for visiting and have a sunny day!!!

Jacqueline said...

Such a beautiful table and a beautiful poem too. Your linens are just gorgeous. The lovely china just fits the romance of the poem. I loved it by candlelight too. Have a wonderful Valentines Day with all of the romance in the poem.

All The Pretty Dishes said...

Lovely tablescape. I adore the crochet tablecloth that your mother made by hand and your heart boxes are beautiful.

Debbie@Mountain Breaths said...

Marlis, how I adore your cherub garden piece from the estate sale! What a wonderful, romantic table! Your last sepia toned shot just took my breath away...just beautiful.

Andrea at Opulent Cottage said...

That is certainly one of the lovliest tables I have ever seen! Your nightime photos are beautiful, also. Just so romantic! I hope you and your hubby have a wonderful Valentine's Day!
xo, Andrea

A Hint of Home said...

Your table is absolutely gorgeous!

Kuby said...

What a beautiful and romantic table The roses are so spectacular. I also adore those heart boxes. You are so talented! Thanks for sharing this.

Daphne said...

Thanks for sharing your beautiful rose filled table for The Colors of Love. I enjoyed your post!

we three dogs and me said...

Your pictures are absolutly beautiful. Had to second look at them. Your poem touches my heart. So lovely and romantic

Carol at Serendipity said...

Marlis,

Thanks so much for stopping by and your kind comments. The embroidered hearts are from Embroidery Library. I find their designs to well digitized and reasonable in cost. I like Anitagoodesign too.

Happy Valentine's Day

ellen b. said...

Love your sweet dishes! The roses and the lace are perfect for Valentine's Day.

Anonymous said...

You've outdone yourself, Marlis. This is enchanting. I love the way you incorporate poetry into your posts, and as you know, I have borrowed from you.

Anonymous said...

You've outdone yourself, Marlis. This is enchanting. I love the way you incorporate poetry into your posts, and as you know, I have borrowed from you.

The Tablescaper said...

Thanks for bringing your valentine table to Seasonal Sundays. Love those linens!

- The Tablescaper

Becky said...

Marlis, this is just too pretty. I love the dishes you chose for this Valentine's Day. Roses really are the epitome of the day.

Becky

Lizabeth said...

Everything is so beautiful, very romantic..I adore the china and the crochet tablecloth your mother made is fabulous! You did a beautiful job on the napkins, those are a treasure. The crystal stemware is so delicate, I love it! The poetry is beautiful and a wonderful touch!

swedecollection said...

I think it is wonderful that you use and cherish your Mom's crocheted tablecloth. My Mom made one around 1944. I liked how you used the poem with your photos. The china is wonderful also.

The Lucky Wife said...

OH.... MY! This is THE most beautiful, romantic tablescape I've ever seen! Going to pin it now on Pinterest: pinterest.com/pin/267190190362424403/

LinkWithin

Blog Widget by LinkWithin