As the lucky crow flies...

School began last week in our area, a sure sign of the approach of fall. Before fully embracing the season, I wanted to set a table with one of my favorite Franciscan patterns, "Apple." Produced by Gladding McBean & Co., the Apple pattern was made for an impressive 71 years, from 1940 until its discontinuation in 2011. It's part of the Franciscan line, which also includes popular patterns like Ivy, Desert Rose, and October—all featuring hand-painted, vibrant colors with raise

August has its own unique light. Gold and hazy, honey-colored light that makes us appreciate the last days of summer. Metlox Sculptured Zinnia dishes are August dishes. The raised flowers in golds and oranges with beautiful sage green leaves on a cream background are perfect for a late summer table setting. Metlox Sculptured Zinnia was manufactured in Manhattan Beach, California, from 1964 to 1979. Metlox also created another of my favorite patterns, Sculptured Daisy, which i

I'm eagerly (and impatiently) waiting for Halloween! Actually, both Fall and Halloween, but Halloween is occupying my table-setting mindshare. I'm gradually incorporating Fall elements into my decor, and with September approaching, I'm getting excited. However, Halloween decor is still about 8-9 weeks away! The excitement began when I was texting with my cousin, who loves Fiesta and has an amazing eye not only for Halloween decorations but is truly gifted in creating a beauti

I love August; our Farmer's Market is overflowing with farm-fresh produce, and our small garden is bursting with tomatoes. Dear hubby and #2 son plant tomatoes in old wine barrels, which they carefully water, prune, and protect from the critters that try to eat them! It's no surprise that we consume a lot of tomatoes at home. While there are excellent canned tomatoes on the market—Cento and Mutti are our top picks—nothing beats the taste of fresh home-canned tomatoes in pasta