UNEXPECTED

Very unexpected was the gift from Dee Dee, a crocheted piece done beautifully by a talented artist. My pleasure in receiving it was enormous. My dilemma was how to focus it on a table setting to do it justice.

When I consider a table, it always starts with one piece, and then I let my mind wander about what I can find in my house to complete it. The first place I went was to my closet where I have gathered several thrifted tablecloths, collected over the years. I found the green one with matching napkins, never having used them before. I thought about the colors in the piece, knowing they would have to be similar. What I knew for sure was that it would be the centerpiece.  I needed florals but was concerned about where to put them. That is why I moved the chairs so I could put the vase at the back. That vase of cabbage leaves was a find for $10.00 at a rummage sale. Then I went into the garage and saw the yellow flowers. However, they were already glued in a vase. The colors were perfect, and the best thing was that it fit into the white vase. It was ok, but not quite right. There was too much space around it, so I took it out and put the ivy bouquet in first. That gave enough width to balance the heavy, reticulated chargers. Coincidentally, I had been able to purchase the chargers which I had seen in Dee Dee’s settings for a very reasonable price. I never had paid much attention to reticulated china. It was Dee Dee who showed me how beautiful they could be. Connections are amazing!!! Because of Dee Dee’s gift, I had a reason to use them and celebrate her in another way on the table!!!! 

One of the keys to design a beautiful table is to trust what you love. In the case of this table, I followed Dee Dee’s lead in purchasing the chargers, had the Bordello Pinheiro just because I loved it years ago, and had bought the salad plates because they were so interesting to me with their ruffled edges. The best tables come together because we set them with what we love. I have a best friend who always needs to know where something will go before she purchases. I never have that problem because I purchase things that catch my eye and appeal to me.  The best part is that because my eye chose those things I always find there is a place.

What does this table speak? It asks several questions like: “What was your best summer memory? Did anyone ever make you something by hand? Have you ever crocheted or knit? What went into any design you have created? What was the best gift you have received from a friend?” Asking some or all of these questions will make an occasion of shared joy. 

My intention with every table is that it evoke a feeling. I had never really thought about it seriously until one of my friends pointed out that is what my tables do. So what feeling does this table give me? It offers me a sweet memory of a summer long ago when I knit a baby blanket for a dear friend. I was 15 years old and considered it a huge achievement. Every time I pass the table I think of the artist’s hands creating every stitch, appreciating all the love that created this exemplary piece!!!! So, the feeling? Gratitude and admiration, and appreciation of our worth. 

What does this table speak? Again, it asks a question.  “What is the greatest gift you ever received and why?” I think the answer to that question will bring about great conversation 

“Unexpected” is the right word for this table because setting it and enjoying it has brought me so much more delight than I had anticipated.