Wednesday, April 4, 2012

A SPRING TABLESCAPE

Daisies are my favorite flowers, just so simple with their scraggly leaves. I grow them at the lake and usually have a few vases of them everywhere I can stick them! These are from the grocery store and they are looking pretty on my table today.
I cut some tulips this morning, just the few that actually made it through the winter. I don't know why mine came up so badly, my neighbor has a beautiful bunch in front of her house. Tulip envy! See the little salt and pepper shakers...two peas in a pod? They are SO cute!
My sweet friend, Julie Marie from Idyll Hours sent me this book after reading my last post about my never ending quest to lose weight. She swears by the philosophy of this book and wanted so badly for me to not give up the things I love to eat, but to learn to eat what I love without the guilt and the weight gain. I am just a few pages into it and it really seems like a good book. I'll fill you in more as I get through it. It is on my sidebar and you can order it through Amazon or Overstock. Thanks again Julie Marie, you are truly a good friend!
So on to the tablescape. I spent a few days making this, adding a little bit at a time {I've been super busy}. I really wanted something spring~like and whimsical.
I fell in love with these little chicks made out of hydrangeas. They even have little feathers on their tummies!
The centerpiece is the huge tree I got from Wisteria. Of course it would have to be moved if we were to eat here, but I am just playing with my dishes!
The plates are from Anthropologie and Pier 1. So are the wine glasses.
My bunny showed up in my last post. The napkins and rings are from Williams Sonoma and my silver plate is just mismatched and old.
I have this set up at the table in the family room. I like that I can leave it there as long as I want. It was fun to do, maybe I will be doing more again in the future. I am joining Kathleen for her party called Let's Dish. Visit her at Cuisine Kathleen.
Today is the first day that I am home alone and am having some "Me" time. Sunday was grocery shopping and cleaning out the fridge. Monday I ran errands with Emily and we stopped in a cute dress shop. She found some cute spring dresses and I got some shoes and jewelry. Last night we had the whole gang over for dinner. I made barbecue ribs, baby red mashed potatoes, corn, salad, bread and we had Oreo cookie pie for dessert. I also mixed up some margaritas to go with the cheese ball and crackers. As always, we had fun.

So this morning I am just sipping my tea and wondering what I am going to do with myself on this gorgeous spring day. Maybe take a walk or just read my book. I hope all of you are having a wonderful week and I will be back soon! :-)

79 comments:

Gina said...

Oh Jane, your tablescape is so pretty! I love the hydrangea chicks and the flower plates are gorgeous!

I'm interested in what you think of that book. I've heard alot about it, but have never read it.

Teresa@1800 Farmhouse Rd said...

Your spring table is so pretty. I have not taken the time to do anything for spring or Easter.
Let us know about the book. Isn't that Julie Marie the sweetest thing ever? Have a happy Easter.

Desire Empire said...

The table sure is whimsical and very sweet.

Oh and French women don't get fat because they don't eat much. They may have 5 courses but may only take a bite from each.

Have a happy Easter
Carolyn xx

Debby said...

Your table looks so nice. Love all the little touches. Take a day for yourself. You always have such nice dinners for your family. Happy easter.

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

OMG...those peas in a pod are the cutest!!
Spring is truly magical!!

June said...

Hi Jane,
I love your pretty Easter table! AND I LOVE your daisies. I love that flower too and raise them in the garden.
The one thing that that book taught me about eating, was to really enjoy the act of eating and don't do eat except at the table...I don't meant that I always live by that rule, but I try to not eat on the run :) I also love the fact that it talks a lot about eating fresh foods.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Easter!!!
hugs...

WinnibriggsHouse said...

Have to agree about the daisies they are such simple beauties and so fresh looking. Your table looks delightful. I especially like the little birds.

Julie Marie said...

Hi Janie... so glad you are enjoying the book... it will become your lifestyle, no more DIETS!... your daisies are just gorgeous!... and your tablescape is so pretty for Easter, I just love that bunny, and the little chicks are adorable!...your posts are always so happy and upbeat, especially now it is Springtime!... I am wishing you a beautiful Easter if you do not post again before then, much love, xoxo Julie Marie

Rae said...

Your Daisy's are beautiful, tulips too and the book French women don't get fat...it's a good way to go because you can eat sweets and butter, just a bit!! Better than nothing, I say.
Beautiful tablescape!!!

Anonymous said...

beautiful tablescape, love the tree and those chicks are so sweet.That was a yummy dinner you had, I have the book you are reading, it is a good read, sadly my butt didn't become any smaller due to reading it, I guess you have to put what it says into practise reading isn't enough, ha ha!Have a lovely time with the rest of your day!

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I love that bunny, Jane! Those nest and egg napkin rings are great ~ I'd love to get a set! I'd pick the book. I think I will have some "me" time on Friday.

Susie said...

I have got to get one of those twig trees...it is something you could decorate every holiday of the year. Smiles, Susie(She Junks)

Sunflowers With Smiles said...

Jane:

I love your tablescape from the little chicks to the flower plates.

I have the book and love it! They rarely snack and eat healthy and slow. Also red wine is included.

Hope you have a Happy Easter!

Linda said...

You always find SOMETHING to do!!!
I love your twig tree. I have a smaller one but it is not painted. I may just have to spray paint mine white.

Your dinner sounds delish!! I SO wish food didn't have to have CALORIES!!!

Bunny Jean said...

Hi Jane!

Your table setting is so sweet... Love the little chickies and the napkin rings. I may not get any Easter decor up this year... time is really running out.

Sounds like you have family and friends over for dinner quite a bit... I think that is wonderful. Maybe if we had company I might feel like cooking more. (I also need to read that book!)

Enjoy you free time and I hope you have a wonderful Easter!

xoxo Bunny Jean

Susan Shull said...

Pretty table! I am jealous that your kids are all at your house for so many meals. I'm going to work harder to make that happen more frequently around here. Can't wait to hear what you think about the book-share the secrets please!

Tablescapes By Diane said...

Hi lovely lady.
Your tablescape looks so pretty, you did a beautiful job putting this together for your Spring dinner with your family . I also love your flower plates it add's just a little pop. You can mix them with your other tablescaps. I love the ones I have also. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Happy Easter.
XXOO Diane

Tracie~MyPetiteMaison said...

Hi Janie!
Your Spring Tablescape is beautiful & uplifting in spirit. I too, love daisies for their cheerful look. So many pretties you have paired here along with the flowers.

Have a happy, blessed Easter!
xo~Tracie

Lynn said...

Lovin' your pretty table Jane, the chicks are so cute! It was beautiful in Philly today too, enjoy your day:@)

Sue said...

I love this tablescape! Your dishes are gorgeous and such cute little chicks sitting there!

I'm anxious to see what you think of the book. I really think the key is just exercise and small portions but knowing it and doing it are 2 different things. I have a class reunion in June and I'm still not dieting and I know I'll wish I had!

Lori said...

Love those little petal plates and your chicks Janie!! My tulips are coming up ~ slow but sure ~ I think the spring weather going from hot to cold has shocked the plants ~ we will see what happens. Alas my tulips are from the store but I love them so. Happy Wednesday! xo

Linda (More Fun Less Laundry) said...

Hi Jane, I am missing my tulips this spring too! Some leaves came up but no flowers. I like the little nest napkin rings, and your entire table is so pretty. I read that book. It was entertaining! Linda

Linda @ A La Carte said...

What a sweet table. I love the little flower chicks! Two peas in a pod S&P oh so cute! Have a wonderful Easter! hugs, Linda

Theresa said...

What a sweet friend to send you that book! I can't wait to hear what you think about the way they eat:) Hope that it works and makes losing a little easier!

Love your little chickie and your table! Awesome and Springy!

Have a blessed evening, HUGS!

ellen b. said...

What a fun table you arranged. Glad you had some time alone to enjoy sipping that tea!

Marlis said...

Love your sweet bunny! The tree does make a magical centerpiece. Your sweet chicks and flower plates steal the show.. A very pretty table.. Happy Easter.. many blessings, xo marlis

podso said...

Very cute chicks you have there! The tablesetting is so nice ... and, daisies are my favorite and were with pink roses in my wedding bouquet.

I noticed your little creamer and sugar in the last photo...caught my eye. Do they have a story? I have a duplicate only mine have a little scene painted on them--and I was given them as a going away present by some friends many years ago. They look exactly the same only painted.

Alycia Nichols said...

Hi, Jane! Ahhhh...the never-ending battle against the pounds. I know it well! The guerilla warfare in the aisles at Costco, the ads on late-night TV, and the neighbors who love to bake and share just won't let me win, though. I just wave my white flag (which is actually a napkin because, of course, I'm eating!) and surrender to it. C'est la vie! (I'm thinking that if I say, "C'est la vie!" that the book you are reading will somehow magically transform me. Hmmmm...still waiting!) Pretty table setting with beautiful daisies. (You know the quote from "You've Got Mail"!) I really like the ceramic creamer and sugar. Very cute!!! Have a Happy Easter, and happy reading!

Unknown said...

Cute table and the flowers are always joyful!

Debbie@Mountain Breaths said...

I can see how you fell in love with these little chicks made out of hydrangeas. Feathers on the tummy is a bonus! I hope you enjoyed your "me" time. Happy Easter!

ℳartina @ Northern Nesting said...

Pretty tablescape Jane, I love your dishes and those little chicks are super sweet! I hope you enjoyed your me time:)

Betsy Brock said...

Gorgeous table...and those chicks are adorable!

Marigene said...

Beautiful table, Jane. Love the plates.
I have that book and read it cover to cover, it was great. I am French and DO NOT eat like a oiseau, more like a cochon!

Pamela said...

Beautiful tablescape Jane!
My home growing up had daisies everywhere and i mean everywhere! My mom is a daisy freak. Even our dishes had daisies all around the edges! Very unique dinner set that someone bought for her 40years ago in Florida. She even had an artist commission a daisy painting for over her mantle!
I don't think i have one daisy thing in my home now lol!!!
Happy Easter!
Pamela xo

NanaDiana said...

Hi Jane- I hope you had a wonderful day doing something you enjoy! Your table looks beautiful. I LOVE those plates they are just perfect for Spring. Those little chicks are just adorable. Have a good night- xo Diana

PAT said...

Your table is very pretty, Jane. I saw the sugar and creamer. Almost brought it home, but I am trying to behave.LOL

Happy Easter!

Sarah said...

Jane, your table is so cute. Those little chicks are darling. I love daisy flowers, but for some reason haven't had luck growing them. Strange, I know! Perhaps I'll give them another try.
I've thought of getting a copy of this book. Think I'll order it tonight. Thanks!
Wishing you and your family a Happy Easter! ~ Sarah

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hi Jane,
I love your pretty table. The little chicks are so cute.
I saw that book in one of the dealer's booths and thought it looked like an interesting read.
I too struggle with my weight and it gets so frustrating trying to balance life and diets. I feel your pain.

hugs
Sissie

Entertaining Women said...

Soft, whimsical, and special because of all your personal touches. The peas in a pod are darling, and I adore the hydrangea chicks. Pier One always has great goblets. I kind of stalk them watching for amazing sales. Thanks for inviting us for a peak. Cherry Kay

Pondside said...

That's a pretty table, Jane. I like daisies too - I pick arms full in the summer as they grow thick and wild up here.

Ann said...

Such a lovely table...
I love your flowers,
and that bunny is so cute.

Kathleen said...

Those bunnies are so cute! And the chicks, wow! I love daisies too, and your table is adorable. Love those plates!
Thanks for linking to Let's Dish! Happy Easter, Jane, eat some really good jelly beans! :)

Jacqueline said...

Those chicks couldn't be more precious! I think I would be leaving those up all spring around the house. What a cute set of peas in the pod. I fell in love with that too. Your table is just beautiful Jane! I have read parts of the French women too! I think it is because they walk everywhere, same with Italians because they both love rich food! We are just so attached to our cars - duh we live in a huge nation! It is a fun read though.
Have a wonderful Easter!

Maggie said...

Lovely Spring table, Jane, the chicks are very cute!
They may not eat fast food, but don't believe everything your read about French women, they're not all size 2!

Kathleen Grace said...

I just love those daisy plates, and your whole table is so pretty! If the book works for you let us know, I think many of us are fighting the same battles!

Creations By Cindy said...

Love those plates! Your bird is so cute too! Hugs and blessings, cindy

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I love daisies, too...and even have that same book! Everything looks beautiful for the holiday! ♥

Julie Marie said...

Hi again... I came back to read everyones comments... I am happy so many of your ladies liked the book as well... besides the smaller portions and all of the walking, it is attitude as well... being French (for the most part) I can attest to this... my French relatives all have (or had when they were still with me) a zest for life, which I try to keep going... and no, I am sure not all French women are thin, but I do know they do not fret over what they eat... eating is a pleasure to be enjoyed as is life... everyone must find their own way, but I do know this lifestyle has worked for me my entire life... I would really rather have smaller portions and eat the things I love... I fix a homecooked meal every night of the week and enjoy doing so... I think cooking is like so many things, if you love doing it, which I do, then it brings pleasure to you and those you cook for... diet is a four letter word at my home... we never diet... most do not work and are not healthy for you, so I hope this little book I sent you helps... you already have the zest for life!... and you are so beautiful Janie!... much love, xoxo Julie Marie

LuLu Kellogg said...

Jane...this table is beautiful!!! Well done!

Happy Easter Sweetie!

LuLu~*xoxo

Shirley said...

Happy Easter Jane to you and your family. I am taking some much needed me time to catch up with my friends. Your table is beautiful and I have enjoyed reading your blog tonight and am thankful to have you for my friend. Take care Hugs Your Missouri Friend.

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi jane,
Oh those hydrangea chickies are just about the cutest! I can see why you love them...cause i do too!
And the centerpiece is gorgeous and so unique!
Gosh I miss visiting with you!
We need to come up with a date in June and just go with it!
I hope you, Alan and your family have a wonderful Easter!
Hugs friend,
Cindy

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

I have the same bunny on the table! I think I said that last year..lol...

I have a flock of daisies out in my perennial garden too.. so cheery, and last a long time.

Jen Beaudet said...

What a beautiful table! I love your dishes! That must have been fun putting it together. Please get back to us with the secrets of losing weight while eating what you want. I really need this info! Have a wonderful day!:)
Jenniferxox

The Summer Kitchen Girls said...

Hey there Jane! Looks like you are just about ready for the Easter Weekned!! The table looks great ~ those little chicks are too cute! Enjoy your weekend with your family :)
Karla & Karrie

Lynne (lynnesgiftsfromtheheart) said...

Hi Jane, I love your tablescape, I've looked at those darling plates for a while, so far have resisted..lol
Your bunny stole my heart...
Happy Easter. hugs ~lynne~

Kelly said...

It's always nice to have days to yourself every now and then. Love that cute creamer and sugar set too. Your Easter table setting is very pretty. The little chicks you found are perfect!

My Grama's Soul said...

Hi dear Jane...the daisy is also one of my favorite flowers. In fact....I had them all over the place for my wedding to my current husband.

Happy Easter to you and your family.

Jo

{Bellamere Cottage} said...

Hi Jane! And, Happy Easter.

Everything looks so sunny and springy! I must confess, Easter came so quicky, I'm totally unprepared. I can't show a darling little tablescape with little chickies.... I'll be lucky to have the table set by Sunday!

I think I"d better get the book too! :-)


Huggies and lovies!

Spencer

Ann from On Sutton Place said...

Your table looks so pretty Jane...I love the plates especially. Your dinner with the gang sounds like fun. Ribs is just about my favorite thing to eat! Hope you have a Happy Easter!

momto8 said...

what a lovely table...makes dinning even more fun!!
Happy Easter!

Joanne Kennedy said...

I too love dasies but we don't often see them for sale any more here. Not sure why.

Your tablescape is darling.

Hope you and your family have a blessed Easter.

Alison @ The Polohouse said...

Your table is darling! Love those little chicks.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday weekend.
xox
A

Ocean Breezes and Country Sneezes said...

I'm going to run out and get that book A.S.A.P.!!! Maybe it will help me loose the 40 lbs. that have crept back on . . . which I can't seem to shake off!

Love the tablescape and all your beautiful decorations in this post and in your previous post! I especially like the bunny with the "grass pants" I thought he was adorable!

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Easter!

Mary

Balisha said...

Happy Easter, Jane.
Balisha

Tricia said...

Your table looks so pretty, Jane! I love those flower plates. I hope you enjoyed your "me" time. That's something I've been thinking I need a little more of :)

Happy Easter to you!
xo

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

What a sweet table you set! I love those hydrangea chicks... so pretty!
And your daisy plates are just about as pretty as the real thing! I would love to have those in my collection!
Yvonne

Lynne said...

Jane,
Your Easter table is beautiful!
I have always loved your Wisteria tree!
My son surprised us with an impromptu visit last Saturday. That meant a houseful and an early weeknight Easter dinner. Between balancing work and family, I never made it to the post office! We put him on a plane back to Boise on Thursday night.
Your gift is wrapped and ready to go. I will email you to let you know when it's on it way!
I wish you and your family an Easter full of blessings!
~Lynne
w/L.

shannon i olson said...

gorgeous table! I just saw the little creamers at Target and was so tempted to get them, I didn't....yet

Anonymous said...

I always smile when I see daisies too. Something about their simplicity is delightful, isn't it?

I love seeing your Easter table. Those little chicks are adorable. I hope you and your family have a very blessed and happy Easter.

Ricki Treleaven said...

Such an adorable table....and I really must get the daisy plates if they are still available! Daisies are my oldest daughter's favorite flower! So cute.

I have that book and the recipe book, too! I think that French women cook amazing meals, and they walk about six miles to buy all the ingredients, and then spend hours cooking...they burn it all off!!!

xo,
RJ

Always Nesting said...

I always feel like I'm there visiting with you when you have posts like this one. Happy Easter to you and yours and BTW, ITA about eating what you want. I know if I deprive myself thinking "I can't" then I eat everything else in sight and feel stuffed, when I should have just eaten what I wanted and avoided the binge.

Unknown said...

Hi Jane! I love Daisies too! :) I also have that little pea pod salt and pepper set! :)

This is a darling table! Hope the book is helpful...Let us know.

Happy Easter!
~Liz

xinex said...

Beautiful tablescape, Janie! Love those cute chicks. Good luck on the diet. The weight I lost has been found again, lol. Just got back from New Orleans. Had to take AJ to the airport after her spring break. Hope you and the whole family have a Happy and Blessed Easter!..Christine

Linda (Nina's Nest) said...

I've read that book....not sure if it helped : ) I think I need to read it again. Pretty table. Happy Easter to you and your family! Linda

koralee said...

Your Tablescape is lovely. You have the sweetest little Easter treasures. I have heard about that book...I would love to read it.
Hope your Easter was filled with JOY! xoxo

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Love the tablescape, Jane! I can vouch for the idea of the book. My French friends eat like that. Me...not so much! lol Hope you had a fabulous Easter!...hugs...Debbie

SmilingSally said...

I love your chicks covered with hydrangeas. Such a creative idea!

I hope you had a Happy Easter, Jane!

The Time Voyager said...

Such a pretty tablescape.

Knitty said...

Belated Easter wishes to you and yours! Your table looks lovely. I noticed the two peas in a pod right away. Very cute!

I am looking forward to further comments about that book. I've heard of it but not looked at it anywhere. One of these days something will click with me. I know I can do it but getting my mindset in order has been impossible lately. :(