I like to eat with my eyes too

I do not believe I am overstating the case when I tell you I ADORE a well set table.  The china, the silver, the crystal, the linens.  Bring it on.  All of it.

Oh, and the fresh flowers, lit candles, and a quail centerpiece.    Sure it's about the food when you are served a special meal.  It's just that I like to eat with my eyes too. 

My friend Mary Joan, heretofore only of gardening and needlework fame, outdid herself the other night in the domestic goddess arena. 

I did my best to take photos of all the courses.  But once I bit into this crunchy bruschetta with it's juicy tomatoes, briny capers, and sharp pecorino romano I was done for.  I put the camera down and devoted every ounce of my being to appreciating the moment. 

Joan also prepared a spinach and strawberry salad with tangy dressing followed by a smoked chicken and farfalle pasta that had all of the quails moaning with delight and demanding the recipe. 

And then we sat around and had fresh brewed coffee out of delicate cups with matching saucers... and assorted delectable sweets. 

There are not many things nicer in life than sitting around a table with your good friends.  Talking about the old days at the same time you are anticipating shared adventures to come.    Life IS good.   

Comments

[Barbara Tarbox]

Lovely, lovely,lovely. sometimes our civilized selves, in the best sense of the word,
Needs to be taken out and polished . Glad you put down your camera, even though
The pics are lushious.
Joan sounds like a real Renaissance women to be admired and treasured as I know
You do.
The china, porceleine,crystal, flowers and food all come together in the refined moment.

[Megan]

Miss you Quails!!

[Joan Clarke]

Lovely. I grew up in a home with a mother who loved a well laid table. It was very impressive as a child I can tell you. As much as I love the fine china, I don't own any.

I'm more the picnic table, red & white checked cloth, corn on the cob, BBQ ribs, tater salad, fried catfish, home made ice-cream, iced tea kind of woman.

[Pamela]

I like a well set table too and that looks lovely. And those tea cups -- so pretty! I want to visit your friend too.