For sure there is more to this New Year’s Eve table other than it being created around the centerpiece of holly trees and finials that has inspired each of my December tables.
No, this one begins with the china that is one of the few things I have that belonged to my mother. It is not likely what I would have picked, but it is dear to me because of the memories it evokes.
I don’t remember ever having seen her use the little salt cellars. I found them in a cabinet after she died and have no idea of their origin, but I held on to them without thinking about how their gold trim was a perfect complement to the china.
The Fostoria glasses were also Mother’s, and the soup spoons came from my mother-in-law’s kitchen. From her I have even fewer things than from my mother, but she left me with a heart full of love.
The wine glasses have a story starting with the one in the middle. Years ago I was with my parents in an antique shop in North Carolina where they were then living. For whatever reason the glasses caught my eye and when Daddy saw me holding one and turning it this way and that he said, “Sis, if you like those, why don’t we get them?” Done, and so began my collection of mismatched etched stemware.
Even the napkin rings hold their own story and remind me of the time when a daughter and I were to meet in London and go on to the Cotswolds. At the last minute, her trip was cancelled thanks to an unexpected business decision, but I went on since my ticket was nonrefundable. It turned out to be a wonderful solo adventure, and the napkin rings were a purchase at a small shop in the middle of nowhere filled with handmade items. That explains the attraction!
Well, that’s the story of the table, and for me remembering the people and places that each piece represents makes it a great way to end the year.
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Lulu's Musings 
Great decorations..
Love it.
xx
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What great memories you have as you use those special items. Wish you were closer I have several glasses that match the ones your Dad bought for you. I don’t have enough to set a table. If you are ever in North Texas area up by the Oklahoma border let me know, they can me yours.
Best in the New Year!
I love reading your blog and especially the ones written when you are in Maine! You have wonderful tablescaping ideas and I always enjoy your use of color!! Mary H
Mary, a comment like yours gives me incentive to continue. Thank you!😊
I’d say that is a table full of memories. Happy New Year to you both.
It is so wonderful to sit at a beautifully dressed table and have the bonus of the treasured memories! Love your dad’s attitude…if you love it, get it!…Happy New Year to you and your family! Regards to your special guy!!!
Love the stories your table setting tells…
Linda, the best tables always tell stories…loved your sweet memories. I have so much from my Mother that is precious to me and I always love to share stories about her! Happy New Year to you and your hubby!
Your memories of each item are oh, so sweet, which makes using them all the more special❤️ Happy New Year to you and hubby❤️❤️
Thank you and all our love and best wishes are sent your way.
I loved hearing about each piece on your table. Nice stories of special memories. I especially liked what your Daddy said when he saw you admiring the crystal goblet. That warms my heart as does how you cherish each piece that belonged to your mother, mother-in-law and those you bought for yourself and where you bought them.
I think we share the same sentimental heart about memories. I have so many questions now about things that were my mother’s and mother-in law’s. My MIL is still living but unable to remember anything so there are things I can only appreciate that it was her’s and can’t know it’s story.
Yes, there are some things I hold dear and hope that will be true for my daughters as well.
A table filled with so many cherished memories. I have a number of items from my mom, mother-in-law and some older which they both had. So many of my friends have un loaded family treasures in attempting to downsize. Somehow even though many of these items are in several chiba cabinets sitting along side my own collection of Waterford crystal , I cannot bear to part with them. Hopefully, my daughter will want some of them one day. Now, after spending 3 days before Christmas polishing tarnished silver pieces that had been in boxes a number years I began to wonder if it was worth it. Then I see and discover all the pretty pieces once the tarnish is gone. My mother-in-laws silver plated punchbowl got filled with scented pine cones.
Like you, I can’t bear to get rid of what little I have from family. I keep hoping they will be kept by my daughters, but the jury is still out.
I LOVE the stories, you have inspired me for this New Years Eve! ❤
Oh good, you’ll have to share what you did.