With the entire world celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday, I thought I would share with you this delightful tea, developed by TeaTime magazine. It is truly fit for royalty, whether the queen of England or a special lady in your life. Enjoy! From TeaTime March/April 2016 Although the birthday of the British monarch, whoever he or she may be, is …
With the advent of modern day home sewing and embroidery machines, you can create your own linen collection by purchasing monogram designs and embroidering your own linens. For the sewist today, monogram designs can be downloaded to an embroidery sewing machine, and very quickly a set of beautiful linens can be created. Here are some “tips” for creating your own: …
When Neal and I visited Biltmore House recently, we saw letters and notes the Vanderbilts had written years ago when the “house was in mourning.” We found these intriguing—each note or letter was written on black-banded stationery. I commented about that, and the curator pointed out that during a time of mourning, not only did the family dress in black, …
The second issue of Classic Sewing has been released to subscribers and sewing shops. You know I just love antiques and vintage collectibles, and I wanted to share with you the dress I made for my granddaughter, which is featured in this issue. I have a wonderful collection of vintage reproduction handkerchiefs that Lori Taylor of Dallas gave me when …
I have two of the most animated grandchildren in the world. They are so much fun and are so full of life. Now for those of you who have grandchildren, you are sharing my thoughts! I am often asked about etiquette for children and specifically table manners. My, what a subject: table manners for children. When I was growing up, …
Spring is officially here, and with it always comes the urge to travel. I’ve written several times over the past few weeks about some of my favorite places to visit across the South, and today I’ve got another fabulous destination to share with you. If you’re a lover of history, gardening, fine food, architecture, or all of the above, you …
In the south, we love to entertain. Whether hosting intimate Sunday suppers or formal soirees, we pride ourselves on being gracious hosts and paying keen attention to detail. Of course, most gatherings would not be complete without our favorite recipes, and assembling a lineup of delicious dishes is frequently the focus of the Southern hostess preparing for company. This stunning …
Easter in the South is a big holiday. After church, friends and family gather around the table to share a meal that’s full of classic dishes and sweet surprises. Easter lunch wouldn’t be complete without a showstopping dessert, and this Lemon Curd Cake is just that! PEEPS and Easter go hand in hand, and our friend Matthew Mead developed this …
Who doesn’t love strawberries? I have to tell you, years ago I was obsessed with strawberries! I had dishes, towels, sheets—you name it! If it had a strawberry on it, I wanted it. It is just a happy fruit to see and especially to eat! I also loved picking strawberries at my grandmother’s house when I was a child. What …
When it is winter and we are inside for several days, I love to get in my kitchen and bake. The house always smells so delightful, and the aroma lingers for days. Baking is therapeutic for me. There is something so fulfilling about working with the ingredients and then popping something into the oven. When the mixer is whirling, you …
