I love to set a pretty table. My absolute favorite china pattern is the one I started in high school when I was planning my future with C.W. I still think Lenox Plum Blossom is one of the prettiest patterns I’ve ever seen (thanks Mom)! I have never gotten tired of it. Over the years, I have acquired other patterns, some in sets and some in random pieces, including the Wedgwood Kruger National Park that I adore, the Minton Pink Cockatrice, and even a little of this pretty pattern called simply Lenox Rose. It’s an uncomplicated sweet pattern, nostalgic even. And it mixes and matches well. Actually, I only have a few plates, one platter and some double-handled soup bowls in this pattern. That’s more than I need, after all. The pieces are really inexpensive on Ebay as are a lot of vintage china patterns. You can pick up a few pieces of a pattern you like for a few dollars. So, why wouldn’t you (?) because it makes for such a pretty table and good food tastes even better when served on something beautiful. Yes, you have to wash it by hand (please!) but washing and drying a few dishes can be relaxing after a day of talking to unhappy people. And, by the way, young people aren’t collecting china any more, are they? I’m not sure when or why that happened, but owning fine china and setting a pretty table seems to have become old-fashioned. Maybe that’s why you can find so much nice china on Ebay at such incredible prices. I like to know the history of patterns, too. Often, they reflect the trends and fashions of the era in which they were manufactured. I can easily see this uncluttered pattern on a 1970s dinner table, serving up a slice of meatloaf with green peas or chicken ala king, even a pot pie. I think you should set your table with something worthy of the food you put your heart and soul into cooking. And if you are dining alone, even more the reason why you should make eating at your table a beautiful thing.
