Frequently I am asked if my table is always set even when it’s just the hubby and me who are eating at home. The answer is yes, it’s part of who I am.
By the time I was a young teenager it was my job to have dinner started so that it would be ready soon after my parents got home from work. While food was simmering, I set the table, and while there was not much to work with I wanted it to look nice. I had learned where silverware and glasses should go thanks to a lady who taught me much during those days. Paper napkins were all we had, but even those were folded neatly.
Fast forward to when the hubby and I were newly wed. We had little in the way of furniture and our dining table was a card table. In addition to our single set of dishes, I had some cloth napkins and it was fun to fold them in different ways. In addition to making the best of a pretty casual setting, it became important to me to prepare foods that would complement each other on the plate. I am a fool for color and texture!
I never thought of any of this as being creative, particularly since I didn’t view myself in that way. The lightbulb went off when I was working temporarily for an industrial psychologist. By leading me through a litany of questions that focused on my decisions having to do with how I lived, ate, dressed he helped me realize that much of who I am is creative. He will never know how grateful I am for that revelation.
Since then I have allowed myself to explore creativity, not to please anyone but to discover more about me. It’s been a wonderful process, and I urge you to do the same by not denying your creative self. We are all blessed with the ability to create, but sometimes it takes a long time to acknowledge the gift.
For me, table settings are a way of introducing creativity to every day living. What is yours?
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Lulu's Musings 
We set the table every night, too, and sit in the dining room, and listen to music — but admittedly, we’re not as creative as you. Inspiring. Thanks.
It sounds like your evening meal is an enjoyable experience. Candles to go with the music?
I have been creating tables ever since I got married~I always wanted to have people over just to set the table! It is such a fun creative outlet, and a fun game to play to see what you can come up with. Your tables are always colorful, festive and different Linda, and always inviting!
Jenna
Thank you, Jenna. I wish I were as creative in some other areas.
Loved reading this post. So enlightening and encouraging. Your photos are beautiful.
Thank you for your comment and your visit. Do come again.
You could write a monthly magazine on decorative tables, Linda.
Now there’s an idea!
How I enjoyed this post, Linda! I was blessed with parents that encouraged my creativity as I was growing up. My mother never used paper plates or napkins. That is how I grew up and I have followed in her footsteps! Beautiful and creative table. I always set the table for the two of us, why would we not!
I have to be pretty desperate to use paper on the table, but on some occasions a paper napkin does the trick.
You were a lucky one to be encouraged. I was well into my 20’s before anyone ever told me I was creative!
Lovely gourds. I like setting the table too. Am thrilled that my daughter likes to help. Such a nice ritual.
Your settings are always so inviting, Linda. Hard to believe you didn’t realize how creative you are! My husband, although he appreciates the little things I do, thinks it’s something reserved for “company.”
Thank you, Rosemary. Isn’t it funny how we find our own unique ways to express our creativity?
Wonderful on every level as usual!
Thank you, Susan. As always, it makes me happy to know you are here.
“It’s been a wonderful process, and I urge you to do the same by not denying your creative self. We are all blessed with the ability to create, but sometimes it takes a long time to acknowledge the gift.” – what a wonderful thought!
You acknowledge your creativity every day!
Every picture is more beautiful than the one before it! It’s such a talent!
You are such a sweetheart, Tina.
I’m with you too… I grew up eating as a family at a very nicely set table and I’ve passed the tradition on to my children. Their becoming young adults so it will be interesting to see what their expectations are in their own families. My husband and I say that we don’t eat, we “dine.” Not all of our siblings (who were raised just like we were) have carried it on. I love your table settings Lulu! Always inspiring!
Good for you for trying to instill in your children with a family tradition. My daughters haven’t bought into table setting yet!
Linda, I’m so happy to see this post! I am the same way with my tables. It is one of my creative outlets, one which I enjoy immensely. I love the feel of the linens, the colors and patterns on the dishes, and the time spent designing a complementary centerpiece. And the joy of a pretty table adds to the pleasure of our dinner. Please keep setting your tables and sharing them with us! Linda
Oh Linda, I’m totally with you. Something about setting a table is a pleasure and, I think, provides pleasure for others. Always good to hear from you.
I also grew up in a home where the table was set every night and we always used cloth napkins, which I do to this day even if I take a sandwich on a plate up to my husband. It’s ingrained! But early influences such as yours and mine stick with us for the rest of our life. Love the orange bottles with the day lilies. Sweet post.
Cloth napkins are a must. Whenever I have a paper napkin it gets totally shredded. At least cloth doesn’t disintegrate!