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Old Time Christmas

December 6, 2022~ Blog hop, Christmas, Tablescapes

Merry, merry Tuesday, sweet friends!

“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, good will toward men.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭

Do you ever long for an old time Christmas? A time when the season was simpler. Grab a warm cuppa and walk down memory lane with me!

I am joining a group of seventeen table stylists, hosted by my friend, Rita from Panoply, to bring you a Christmas Tablescape Blog Hop. You will find the links for all the creative stylists at the bottom of this post.

Christmas always brings back wonderful memories of my childhood, early years of our marriage, and the birth of our only child two weeks before Christmas. God answered our prayer for a child after being married almost thirteen years. On that Christmas morning, we placed him under our Christmas tree and shed tears of joy!

Royal Stafford Christmas Sleigh dinner plates with Santa and his reindeer remind me of my childhood when in my dreams I imagined Santa in his sleigh coming to our home. Back in the late 50’s and 60’s, Santa was not seen in every store in our small town as he is today. He could only be seen in the basement of Sears. I well remember my precious parents taking my brother and me to see him. We were afraid of this strange man and kept a safe distance behind my Mother’s skirt. Since Santa frightened us, my sweet Daddy would help us write a letter to Santa each year. As a letter carrier, he would take our letters to work with him and make sure they would reach their final destination at the North Pole.

The downtown Christmas parade was a really big deal in early December. The anticipation of catching the first glimpse of Santa reached a fevered pitch as he rode at the back of the parade. When my brother and I were children, our gifts were small and few, but always perfect. I have vivid memories of my first bicycle and the largest gift I ever received, a piano. Begging for a piano for a couple of years, it set me on a path of music that brought RM and me together. I still have a doll from my childhood that resides in the Sunshine Cottage for EM and EK. They love playing with her and we are making new memories.

Placing the old world Santas on my table brought back memories of my beloved Mother. She was talented and made gorgeous ceramics, dolls, and quilts. Unboxing these precious treasures each Christmas brings tears and a flood of memories…happy memories of her tender love. I will pass all of her hand-made items to the grandchildren one day with hopes that they will love and cherish them as much as I do.

Tartan plaid chargers placed on beautiful ruffled linen placemats and gorgeous embroidered napkins with Christmas tree napkin rings all add warmth and charm to the table. Silver-plated flatware is a memory of my bridal shower almost fifty years ago! Table details are listed at the bottom of this post.

As my Renaissance Man and I put up our main Christmas tree each year, we place ornaments that were bought for our first Christmas as a married couple. Pitiful, little, cheap ornaments that were purchased at K-Mart, but they are priceless to us. I admit that I often shed tears as we find a special spot on the tree for them. Many ornaments from travels and friends are also placed on the great room tree. It is a memory tree, definitely not a themed one!

It was an honor for many years before Mother passed away to decorate her mantel and help her make her home (where I grew up) festive. It was always warm and welcoming, no matter the season. Christmas floods me with memories of our old time Christmases from the past. She would bake at least fifteen to twenty different kinds of candy and cookies and place them in tins. She must have hand delivered dozens and dozens of cakes to those who needed a little love during the season. One of mine and Daddy’s favorites was her fruit cake. I have tasted many fruit cakes that were dry and not edible, but hers were moist. I have searched all of her cookbooks and have never located the fruitcake recipe. But, I watched her make it for years and learned what the ingredients were. I am happy to say, after a few tries fifteen years ago, according to Daddy, it meets the high standard of moist and delicious!

Renaissance Man loves this song by George Strait and plays it all through the Christmas season. Hearing it inspired this post and many memories of old time Christmases!

Old Time Christmas

Tricycles, Bicycles
Candy canes and candlelight
Tryin’n to stay awake all night to catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer
Mama baking, sister making angels in the falling snow
Now it seems so long ago
I wish they all were here

(Chorus)
We’d have an old time Christmas, old time Christmas
Just like the ones from yesterday
We’d leave the world behind us
Let the spirit find us
And have an old time Christmas
For old times’ sake.
~ written by John Jarvis, Aaron Gayle Barker

In our early years of marriage, we would gather a group of friends and go caroling. We have many fond memories of those cool December nights when we would surprise senior adults from our church and community by showing up on their porches. They would sometimes come out and sing along!

When I taught teen girls in Sunday School, we would go to nursing homes and sing for the residents. It definitely lifted their spirits to see pretty young ladies coming to sing and bearing gifts. It is the small things that often touch a heart in a big way!

Many of you probably remember singing old-time Christmas carols gathered around a piano or in a country church with only a piano and organ providing the music. That would be a breath of fresh air these days! Music has always been an important part of our marriage. It brought us close together in 1970. RM is a song writer, guitarist, and singer. Our son is an excellent singer and musician. I play piano and sing. Our son grew up with music always playing in our home. The old Christmas standards by Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Rosemary Clooney, John Denver, and Karen Carpenter are artists that are playing on repeat in the Sunshine Cottage!

Butch and I have many memories over these past 50 Christmases. Taking our son to Opryland Hotel to see his first John Denver concert…I think he was seven or eight…was a wonderful experience. John did most of his well known songs but also did Christmas music and was backed by a choir. Another sweet time was a trip to the Biltmore to see all of the Christmas decor in early December. We stayed for a couple of nights and it was truly magical.

Butch and I were reminiscing and discussing our Christmas tree experiences and memories. We used live trees for many years. Some we cut from local tree farms. Others came from various places, including the nearby woods. One year Butch was working in North Carolina in early December and he brought home a fresh cut Fraser fir. It smelled so good.

One of our live trees fell over during the night, and being already decorated, a few ornaments didn’t survive. We kept the tree but had to tie it to a hook in the wall to keep it upright!

While we are on the subject of trees, did any of you have a silver aluminum Christmas tree with a rotating color wheel providing the lighting? If my memory serves me well, most of the time those were decorated with glass balls all the same color. I remember watching that color wheel in motion and being mesmerized!

Old time Christmas memories probably vary somewhat, but I am thinking you likely had many similar experiences that are now very special as you look back to days gone by!

Tabletop details:

Old world Santas and tree napkin rings ~ hand-made by my Mother
Arte Italica/Crown Linen Designs ~ linen ruffled placemats mats, Royal embroidered napkins, Merry Christmas pillow in chair, and Natale bowl
Centerpiece ~ Lynch Creek Farm
Table runner ~ TJ Maxx many years ago, Royal Stafford Christmas Sleigh dinner plates (last year)
Tartan chargers ~ old Pier 1 (several years ago)
Cranberry red stemware – many years ago from a local department store
Champagne flutes ~ Tuesday Morning
Silver-plate flatware ~ wedding gift from parents
Leyland Cypress ~ harvested by RM

Be sure to visit all of the links below for fabulous Christmas tabletop ideas!

Debbee’s Buzz – Unique Holiday Peacock Theme Tablescape

Home Is Where the Boat Is – ‘Tis The Season for Plaid & Peppermint

Panoply – Nutcracker Classic Christmas Tablescape

Everyday Living – Old TIme Christmas

My Thrift Store Addiction – Enchanted Forest Christmas Tablescape

Thrifting Wonderland – A Hunt Breakfast Christmas Tablescape

Hyacinths for the Soul – Christmas Joy

From My Carolina Home – Vintage Christmas Tablescape

The Painted Apron – December Birthday Celebration

The Little Yellow Corner Store – A Candy Land Breakfast

Life and Linda – Plaid Tidings with Santa

Pandora’s Box – Where the Treetops Glisten

Celebrate and Decorate – A Christmas Tablescape Wrapped Up for the  Holiday

Me and My Captain – Snow Was Falling Gently on the Streets

Corner of Plaid and Paisley – Dreaming of a Christmas White and Sweet

Dinner at Eight – Cozy, Bright and Classic – A Holiday Table

Red Cottage Chronicles – Cranberry and Gold Christmas Tablescape

The Bookish Dilettante – Christmas Sweets

 

Thank you for your visit and gracious comments. Wishing you an old time Christmas filled with wonderful memories!

Linking with:
 Pieced Pastimes,  Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
 Imparting Grace,Life and Linda

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63 Comments

Merry And White »
« Simple + Southern Sunday No. 423

Comments

  1. Pat says

    December 6, 2022 at 6:06 AM

    Pam,
    What a sweet, thoughtful post! Ornaments garnered over the years speak to a life of family memories.
    May I ask the color of your dining room paint? It is so soothing.

    Have a joyous Christmas celebrating our Saviour’s birth.❤️

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:36 AM

      Thank you, Pat for the sweet comments. My dining room color is by Benjamin Moore and is called Palladian Blue. It is a historical color. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

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      • Anonymous says

        December 11, 2022 at 7:16 AM

        Thank you, Pam❤️❤️

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  2. Mary says

    December 6, 2022 at 6:28 AM

    Pam, I love your trip down memory lane and ‘memory trees’ are better than any theme Christmas tree! Your Royal Stafford Christmas Sleigh plates are beautiful (as is your entire table), framed by the tartan chargers and ruffled placemats. I love your LCF Natale centerpiece, embroidered napkins and cranberry stemware. The lights of your tree and mantle…such beautiful bokeh and ambiance!! I am a fruitcake lover unlike my hubby, so glad you mastered your sweet mother’s recipe. As always it’s a treat to join you at the table. Merry Tuesday ❣️🎄🎶🕯️⛪

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:37 AM

      Thank you, Mary. We share a love for tablescapes. Merry Wednesday!

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  3. Ruthie Miller says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:01 AM

    What beautiful and precious memories you have. They make you a very wealthy person, don’t they? More precious than gold. Now you have made so many new ones with your little grands. God has blessed you.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:38 AM

      Ruthie, your sweet comments warm my heart. Merry Christmas, dear one!

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  4. Roxanne Bernard says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:29 AM

    Dearest Pam, this was such a beautiful and touching reflection of your Christmas’ past. I’m sure a few more tears were shed in writing this post. I teared up reading it, especially the birth of Seth. Our generation was truly blessed to have such magical, precious childhoods, especially at Christmas. Definitely put me in the fruitcake fan club camp! That is amazing you were able to recreate your dear mother’s recipe.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:39 AM

      Thank you, Roxanne. I wish you could have coffee and a slice of fruitcake with me!

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  5. Thrifting Wonderland says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:53 AM

    Pam, it was lovely to be treated to your Christmas memories. They brought back so many of my own special time growing up in a loving family. We didn’t have much money but Christmas was always a special time with parades and carols and decorating the tree with special ornaments that were mostly handmade. We carried on many of those traditions with our own children and still do today. Love your Royal Stafford Christmas plates and the traditional table setting. A pleasure joining you today.
    Lynne

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:40 AM

      Thank you, Lynne. There is something very special of those past Christmases of our childhood and early adulthood!

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  6. Kari says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:55 AM

    Oh Pam…I have shed tears of joy and memories reading your post this morning…Your memories could have all been mine right down to the tree falling over in the night. Ours was the last tree on the lot (cost 5.00) and was so crooked it had to also be tied up. I wrote a poem about that crooked little tree to join my book of family poems. You and Butch have been Blessed with so much in your life together and now the new memories with your littles completes the circle. We, too love all the old classic Christmas music and the hymns of yesteryear are the best. I can remember standing around the piano, drinking hot cocoa and singing carols in our church basement after an evening of caroling. I also have wonderful church family who came to our home during my illness and sang carols. I couldn’t get out of bed but thanks to our Ring doorbell was able to hear and see them. So sometimes the new gets mixed in with the old and those are good memories too. Your table is wonderful! Merry Christmas my dear sweet friend. Hugs

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:41 AM

      Kari, we do share similar memories. Thank you for sharing yours. You are a wonderful blessing!

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  7. marmeladegypsy says

    December 6, 2022 at 8:02 AM

    This might be my favorite post of the season so far, and I have to say that assessment has nothing to do with your absolutely beautiful table. Your tables are always beautiful. But these memories — they are priceless. I read each one closely and some more than once. I love that you put your precious baby under the tree that special Christmas. And I remembered with you the joy of Santa — and the apprehension! Caroling, special concerts, and those K-Mart ornaments. This is a beautiful story in itself (and that table’s pretty lovely too!)

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:56 AM

      Jeanie, your comments are heartwarming and I am glad we both have some of the same memories!

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  8. Cheryl says

    December 6, 2022 at 8:17 AM

    Your words brought me to tears this morning! It is so sad to think of how quickly our lives fly past, isn’t it? That has been on my mind a whole lot this Christmas. It was so nice to walk down memory lane with you and to hear about your life. It is so wonderful that your Mom lived in the same house where you grew up, and you were able to relive those memories with her as you helped her decorate her mantel. May God bless you and your family this Christmas as you make more special memories!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:57 AM

      Cheryl, thank you! You are a sweet blessing!

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  9. Cecilia says

    December 6, 2022 at 9:17 AM

    Hi Pam! What beautiful Christmas plates and I love your tartan chargers and pretty napkins–pinned! Wishing you a joyous Christmas season! Blessings, Cecilia @My Thrift Store Addiction

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:58 AM

      Thank you, Cecilia!

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  10. ellen says

    December 6, 2022 at 9:55 AM

    Oh, what a beautiful post! Memories are the most precious gift. I remember my parents taking us to see Santa at the Henry Ford Rotunda in Dearborn, MI. That was the REAL Santa. The line was long, but we were patient. When we finally got to see him, he knew our names! Santa was actually some guy my Dad worked with and he told him who we were. I’ll never forget that Christmas knowing Santa knew my name! Have a very Merry Christmas with your beautiful family and a Blessed New Year!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 9:59 AM

      Thanks so much, Ellen. I so enjoyed reading your sweet memories! Christmas blessings!

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  11. Clara says

    December 6, 2022 at 10:35 AM

    Oh Pam, You opened the floodgate to my Christmas memories and brought happy tears to my eyes! Yes, we had the 1960’s aluminum tree with the color wheel. Christmas was indeed very different back then. It didn’t start in August! It was simple with family and church was at the heart of it. Love your table especially the plates. I adore your Mom’s ceramics. She was so talented. I know you miss her as I do my Mom but we both know heaven has them. We just got back from seeing the Christmas decorations at the Opryland Hotel. Your table is gorgeous! Clara❤️

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:09 AM

      Thank you, sweet Clara. It makes me happy to know we share similar memories. Yes, heaven has our mothers and that is so comforting♥️

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  12. Rosemary B says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:08 AM

    I really enjoyed reading about your Christmas memories and just every single thing you shared about your experiences growing up. We never had a silver tree, but we did have that tinsel. Remember that? and how sometimes in the box it would come out wrinkly looking. Once my sister came up with a genius idea of ironing it between towels.
    Anyway, I love everything about your table setting.
    Christmas is different now. I think we are blessed to have grown up in a time when family was truly cherished and these times spent celebrating the birth of Jesus.
    Merry Christmas

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:11 AM

      Yes, Rosemary times are different now and we love those special memories from days long gone. I guess ironing the tinsel didn’t work out too well!

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  13. Linda Primmer says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:10 AM

    Pam, your old fashioned Christmas is so precious. The tartan chargers and Royal Stafford Christmas Sleigh dinner plates are so pretty. Love the ruffled placemats. Beautiful table runner to adore your LCF Natalie table centerpiece. Love the story about your mom and her precious Christmas tradition. The cranberry goblets are stunning. Now you are creating special memories with your grands. Always a pleasure joining you. Merry Christmas.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:11 AM

      Thank you, Linda.

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  14. Sue says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:41 AM

    Thank you Pam! What a heartfelt post…so sweet…sharing your memories with us was very special. Everthing is beautifully stunning on your table setting. The photos are so pretty and charming, definitely a home full of love❣ Thank you for making my day❣🎄💛🏠💚⭐🕯⛪

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:12 AM

      Thank you for sweet comments that warm my heart. Merry Wednesday, Sue!

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  15. FRANCES says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:51 AM

    LOVE love love the Royal Stafford Christmas Sleigh plates. This must be a new pattern this year.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:13 AM

      Thank you, Frances. I found the plates last year.

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  16. Marsha says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:55 AM

    Pam, you took me right along with you through your years of experiencing an Old Time Christmas. I loved it! So many precious memories. I could almost hear you all singing at one time. And like your mom, my mom also baked dozens upon dozens of cookies to give away. It does bring some tearful eyes when I think of it. I loved looked at all of those tins filled with wonderfully smelling cookies. And your tablescape! It captures all that you were reminiscing. The painted figurines and your plate stack including plaid tartan chargers and RS Christmas plates. And peeking underneath all of the traditional centerpiece greenery was a lovely and slightly whimsical table runner. It definitely brought to mind all of my own childhood memories of Christmas. Love your table and I loved your story. Have a wonderful holiday with many more memories created.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 7, 2022 at 11:14 AM

      Marsha, your lovely sentiments are heartwarming!

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  17. Debbee says

    December 6, 2022 at 1:35 PM

    Pam, what a feast for the eyes, such a festive and stunning tablescape! And, the heirloom Santa’s and napkin rings made by your mother are priceless treasures! I loved everything about the gorgeous place settings, included those wonderful Santa plates. But most of all, I loved reading your holiday stories and traveling down memory lane. Thanks so much for sharing! I went into early labor with our youngest son 5 AM Christmas morning, and he was born 7 minutes into the 26th. A year before, I had a softball sized benign tumor removed that made it unlikely I’d be able to get pregnant again. He’s the best Christmas present I’ll ever receive!

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  18. Ricki Treleaven says

    December 6, 2022 at 3:04 PM

    Pam, thank you so much for sharing your special Christmas memories with us. I’ve enjoyed reading about them, and I even went back and re-read them! Your table is pretty, and I love the ruffled placemats below your pretty plate stacks. I love the special pieces your mom made. How special that you have them on display! We did have an aluminum tinsel tree with the rotating color light, and I remember when I was about three trying to plug it in to the wrong outlet, and I pulled the tree on top of myself and several ornaments broke! :/ Thanks again for sharing your walk down memory pane with us because it brought some of my own memories to the forefront, too. Have a Blessed Christmas! ~Ricki Jill

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  19. Carole @ From My Carolina Home says

    December 6, 2022 at 3:36 PM

    Gorgeous table, and as usual, your glassware really takes it up a notch! Yes, I remember those aluminum trees, but we never had one. There is a museum in Brevard that is only open in November and December dedicated to Aluminum Christmas trees, and I did a blog post on it – https://frommycarolinahome.com/2018/12/25/merry-christmas-and-a-holiday-treat/ – enjoy!

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  20. Kris@Junkchiccottage says

    December 6, 2022 at 4:47 PM

    Such a beautiful post Pam. My grandmother had one of those aluminum trees and I remember as a child how beautiful it sparkled. What a great post of beautiful memories. Love your beautiful table setting. The traditions and memories make it even more special. Happy New Week. xoxo Kris

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  21. Kim says

    December 6, 2022 at 6:52 PM

    What a beautiful post Pam! The table is just lovely. Your plate stack and embroidered napkins are beautiful and how special to use those gorgeous napkin rings that your mother made and you can share with your family. 50 Christmases together is quite an achievement! Thank you for sharing your precious memories and a walk down memory lane!

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  22. inspiredbyjoydianne says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:11 PM

    Your beautiful memories remind me so much of my own. Your table is simply beautiful. I love your mother’s beautiful creations. Every detail speaks perfection. My only Baby Girl was also placed under the tree. I had three miscarriages before she was born. She was three months old and loved looking at the tree lights. Mother also baked cakes and cookies and made lots of candies to share with neighbors, families and church friends. Carolers from church came to their home as long as they lived. They lived in the same house 60 plus years. Your post is so very beautiful with every detail perfect. We also had the aluminum tree. As they grew in age, I put up their tree and helped decorate the house. Dad always had a star and cross with lights in the front yard that he made himself. May God continue to bless you with such extraordinary talent and bless your beautiful family.

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  23. Marion says

    December 6, 2022 at 7:31 PM

    Very lovely Such beauty.
    Marilyn,Joan and Marion

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  24. lulu says

    December 6, 2022 at 9:15 PM

    Lime for you the holiday season evokes many memories. It was simpler then and for that reason I’ve started keeping things simple and focusing on what is important. There is so much to cherish.

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  25. Nancy says

    December 6, 2022 at 9:37 PM

    Oh how I enjoyed all your sweet memories of Christmas’ past. This is my most favorite post to read this season! Thank you!
    Your memories brought back so many of my own cherished memories! And to have your son for Christmas… I shed some tears with that.
    Your table is gorgeous my friend! Thank you for the inspiration! And thank you for such a loving post.
    Merry December!

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  26. Sandra @ Dinner at Eight says

    December 6, 2022 at 11:10 PM

    Thanks for sharing your beautiful table and sentimental memories. I love the gorgeous reds and deep greens! All the special touches on your table, from the handmade elements to the pretty new linens, to the lush plate settings will continue to make lovely memories as family and friends gather. Wishing you a very merry Christmas!

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  27. Sarah says

    December 7, 2022 at 1:17 AM

    Pam, your post has me pulling up my own memories from childhood and actually all the years of my marriage. Monnie and I have always had a memory tree. It was bittersweet to decorate it this year. It was a process over several days, as the emotions I felt were almost too much at times. But it is up, and I’m grateful that I have it to sit by at night, remembering special years together. Some of our ornaments are from our childhoods, some from when I was single, but most are special ones collected together through the past 47 years. Monnie often put a special ornament in my stocking. Many of the ornaments are MacKenzie-Childs collected over 30+ years. So many special memories hanging on our tree each year.
    Your plates represent a wonderful feel for the holidays, and of course the layer of tartan atop the velvet offers a special touch. Every detail is perfection!
    Happy Holidays!

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  28. Gail says

    December 7, 2022 at 6:25 AM

    Pam-I always enjoy your posts, but today was very special. Thank you for sharing your wonderful Christmas memories. It brought back many cherished memories of my own.

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  29. Debbie- Dabble says

    December 7, 2022 at 8:11 AM

    Pam,
    what a wonderful post that I not only enjoyed looking at the pictures of this stunning tablescape but I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your wonderful memories of Christmas past…Such a touching and heart felt post! Thanks so much for sharing! Your table is drop dead gorgeous and those dishes took my breath away!!..Pinned and Shared!!
    Have a great day!!
    Hugs,
    Dbe

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  30. Ann Krucek says

    December 7, 2022 at 8:17 AM

    Pam, what a beautiful post! Your traditional table aligns with all of your wonderful Christmas memories. Your sleigh plates are gorgeous and you have them framed so beautifully with the plaid and the ruffles. I loved hearing about how music is such a big part of your lives. My father hated music- I don’t know why- but he would always tell us to turn off the radio, despite that I played the bassoon in a youth orchestra- yet he never came to see me play. But to this day, music is my solace and my husband has a wonderful voice and sings in the church choir. Putting up your memory tree must be a blessed time. How nice that you have so many treasured pieces that your mom made!! Very special❤️I hope you have a joyous Christmas season🕊

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  31. Alice Henzlinger says

    December 7, 2022 at 8:32 AM

    Thanks for sharing your Christmas past with us. We never had a bought tree. Always one we found in the woods. Several years mom put spun glass on the tree . It was her job because the spun glass would cut your hands. She never made cookies or candy but made cakes. Many cakes. Love the song and would love to hear Butch sing it. So precious to me that you laced Seth under the tree that first year of his birth. I filled up reading your post. It is a very wonderful Christmas gift to me.

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  32. Shannon@Belle Bleu Interiors says

    December 7, 2022 at 9:52 AM

    Sweet friend, I have so enjoyed reading about your Christmas memories this morning, I am always brimming with wonderful memories this time of year. I would not trade them for anything. Your table is absolutely gorgeous! I am swooning over the Santa plates. All of your mother’s beautiful creations set the perfect Christmas setting. I know you treasure these items, and your grands will one day as well. Your entire table is so warm and inviting, and the theme of an old fashioned Christmas is perfect. It is what we all need. We need to slow down and reflect on the true meaning of the season. Enjoy you day, dear friend!

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  33. Linda Stoll says

    December 7, 2022 at 9:59 AM

    oh my this is such a lavish, lush, stunning, and warm tablescape! i’d love to be a guest at your house, Pam!

    Merry Christmas!

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  34. Chloe Crabtree says

    December 7, 2022 at 10:06 AM

    Pam, How lovely it was to imagine all of these wonderful memories you shared while reminiscing about my own past Christmases. I did not know that story about your only daughter, what better Christmas gift could there have been for you to tuck beneath your tree than that blessing from God? All of the memories you have shared are so dear. Thank you for opening your heart to share with all of us. Your classical styled table is certainly all about an old time holiday celebration. May the joy of the season fill your heart with more joy and love!

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  35. Rita C. says

    December 8, 2022 at 1:43 PM

    Pam, as you reminisced over Old Time Christmases, you definitely triggered many memories for me too. Yes, we had a tree that fell over, yes we had aluminum trees in 3 different picture windows growing up (and a real one in the living room). While in the ballet, we used to go to a local nursing home and dance for the residents at Christmastime. Isn’t it funny how dressing a table with cherished items from the past triggers so many memories? The place settings with the indelible image of Santa as most of us remember him from our childhood sets the tone, along with your wonderful memories and cherished Santas your Mother made. And the music of Christmas I will never tire of, it most definitely is part of the memories. Thank you for the walk down memory lane as you so subtly shared the beauty of your family Christmas table elements. May you enjoy the beauty of the season throughout the month! Thank you for being a part of this group of stylists. It’s a privilege to be alongside you in these events.

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  36. Darlene Gardner says

    December 8, 2022 at 9:42 PM

    Pam, you and I must be about the same age. Your memories of Christmases past are so very familiar to me. Going to see Santa at Sears was always special, but he frightened me too. I have a picture of the Sears Santa and me in 1958, when I was four. I am all dressed in my Christmas dress but I am standing by his knee, too afraid to get on his lap. And all the artists you mentioned are my favorites. John Denver is greatly loved by my husband and my adult son too. And to me, the best Christmas album ever done was the Carpenters first one. I was fortunate to see both John and the Carpenters in concert in college. Thanks for taking me back in time. My mother also made lots of goodies to give away. We miss those that have gone ahead, especially at the holidays. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

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  37. Tea With Jennifer says

    December 9, 2022 at 6:45 PM

    A beautiful post Pam. I loved Reading about your family’s journey through Christmas memories.
    Blessings sweet friend, Jennifer 💖

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  38. Maureen says

    December 11, 2022 at 6:17 AM

    Pam, I thoroughly enjoyed your walk down memory lane. It had me pausing to remember some of my own Christmas’s past. All wonderful and vivid memories! And yes, we have had trees fall in the night only to be tied to the wall the next morning! And, yes to the silver tree and rotating coloured lights. Your table is a delightful node to an old fashioned Christmas. Your plates are gorgeous, and centrepieces perfection. I love your attention to detail, especially the cranberries in the champagne, the monogrammed napkins, and adorable Christmas tree napkin rings! Merry Christmas 🙂

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  39. Mrs. White says

    December 11, 2022 at 6:55 AM

    Your table looks so beautiful and elegant. What joy it must bring to your family! I love Old Time Christmases. Your remembrances are inspiring. It must be so precious to have beautiful things of your mother’s that you decorate with and have wonderful memories. Thank you!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 11, 2022 at 9:32 PM

      Thanks so much for your sweet comments. Wishing you a blessed Christmas season!

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  40. Maristella says

    December 11, 2022 at 7:57 PM

    Your sweet remembrances warmed my heart… Your post is amazing. Thank you for sharing.

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  41. vfcstyle says

    December 13, 2022 at 9:05 AM

    Loved reading about all your wonderful memories – and the table is stunning! The Royal Stafford dinnerware is completely charming, and the rich red glassware really enhances the traditional feel of the table. Beautiful!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 13, 2022 at 9:49 PM

      Thanks so much. I am so happy you enjoyed the table!

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  42. mhhwarmcozy says

    December 17, 2022 at 10:03 AM

    We had a tinsel tree with a revolving light. My parents decided to flock it. I never got to see the tree flocked, but mom said it was beautiful! Love reading about your memories.
    Have a blessed Christmas,
    Rachell

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  43. Lynda says

    December 30, 2022 at 8:31 AM

    Hi Pam,
    I love this post. I think Christmas always brings us memories and for me they are wonderful. My parents loved Christmas and made it special for us. My youngest brother was also born on Christmas morning. I was 12 so I remember it well. Also, like you and Butch, our son, our only child was born 9 days before Christmas. I will never forget that special Christmas and our baby dressed in a Santa suit. Merry Christmas to you, Butch and family. ❤💚

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 30, 2022 at 8:50 PM

      Thanks so much, Lynda. Thank you for sharing your sweet memories. How old is your son now?

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A big southern welcome, y’all!  We are Butch & Pam and we are so glad you landed here at Everyday Living. If you stay around here long enough, you’ll learn that we are into a lot of different hobbies. You may find Pam putting together a tablescape, our travels, pullin’ weeds in the garden, and a variety of other things…just sharing our everyday living with you.  We both love reading and trying our hand at photography, but best of all…and our favorite – We are “Da”and“PJ” to 4 precious grandchildren! Butch (sometimes referred to as Renaissance Man, or RM) does our Sunday posts. Thank you for stopping by!

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Happy Wednesday! I set a table next to our woodlan Happy Wednesday! I set a table next to our woodlands in memory of my beautiful Mother who was a lovely example of a Proverbs 31 woman. Mother had the gift of hospitality and shared it with everyone. Karl Rosenfield peonies from my garden fill a treasured keepsake pitcher handed down from my grandmother! A beautiful floral April Cornell ‘Lillianna’ tablecloth and Famille Rose salad plates elevate the status of the old picnic table next to our woodlands. I have collected bejeweled enamel trinket boxes for many years and shared a few on the table for whimsy and fun. For memories of my Mother, click the link in my profile. 

“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30

#aprilcornell #aprilcornellbrandambassador  #peonies #mothersday #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #famillerose #alfrescotable #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday! I am behind in posting spring flow Happy Thursday! I am behind in posting spring flowers from my garden. Lady Banks Rose in bloom on the arbor 1-3 Snowball Viburnum with its showy blooms 4-5 Gorgeous Kwanzan Cherry blossoms 6-7 Old-fashioned Bridal Wreath Spirea 8-9 10 Lady Banks Rose 

Click link in bio to visit the blog post.

Wishing you a joy-filled day 🌼🤍🌺🤍

#mygarden #gardening #gardener #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #southernlivingmag #cottagegarden #gardeninglife #gardendesignmag #ladybanksrose #snowballviburnum #bridalwreathspirea #kwanzancherry #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
With glorious weather, the table next to our woodl With glorious weather, the table next to our woodlands was perfect for teatime! It is Tea on Tuesdays with blogging friends Mary and Kitty. The table is enhanced by views toward the mountain, woodlands, and the large Snowball Viburnum. The verdant rye grass appears as a green carpet that has been spread for Easter! Vintage Fitz and Floyd ‘Herb Garden’ teapots, sugar and creamer, and oval tray are suited for springtime with their embossed bows, vegetables, and words. A bouquet of Kwanzan Cherry blossoms add more spring color to the setting. 

I am serving a simple teatime with Earl Grey tea, savory egg salad filled phyllo cups, and sweet vanilla cupcakes with cream cheese icing, and macarons! A favorite cottage rose tablecloth and Essential napkins are by April Cornell.

We are most blessed to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, being the source of new life, yet new life that is eternal. The beauty of this spring will again give way to another autumn in a few months, but the significance of His empty tomb will never change! Wishing you a blessed Holy Week ✝️ Click the link in my bio to view the blog!

#eastertable #aprilcornellbrandambassador  #aprilcornell #fitzandfloyd #teatime #teatimemagazine #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #teaontuesdays #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #alfresco
Happy Thursday! I love setting a table next to our Happy Thursday! I love setting a table next to our woodlands and this is the first one of the season, an Easter/Spring table! I love all the sweet bunny decorations, but Easter is so much more. We celebrate Easter because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  His bodily resurrection enables all those who choose to follow Him to have assured victory over our greatest enemy…death!

 I look forward each year when some of my favorite blooms display their amazing beauty in our garden. Snowball viburnum in its full glory with large creamy white blooms. Climbing Lady Banks Rose is covered in hundreds of miniature yellow blooms cascading to the ground. An old-fashioned Bridal Wreath Spirea with its branches arching to the ground in a fountain-like growth habit is loaded with showy double white flowers in clusters of three to six that resemble a bride’s wreath. I still claim the Kwanzan Cherry tree even though it is now on our son’s property. Its ruffled pink double pink blossoms are some of my favorite blooms. All four of these blooms make up an arrangement with a few tulips from the grocery store. 

A fluffle of moss bunnies hopped up to the picnic table. A ‘Charming’ tablecloth with  Mary Lake-Thompson napkins and Williams Sonoma enchanting ‘Famille Rose’ bunny plates!

#eastertablescape #springtablescape #alfresco #springtime #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #aprilcornell #aprilcornellbrandambassador #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #williamssonoma
I often shared my sweet Daddy and his stories on m I often shared my sweet Daddy and his stories on my blog. My precious Daddy passed away peacefully on March 26th at the age of 94, surrounded by his beloved family! He was born during the depths of the Great Depression. That may have been part of the reason he was always content and loved the simple things. 

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” Proverbs 22:1

After high school graduation he signed to play professional baseball with the Cleveland Indians Organization. His baseball career was cut short when he was drafted in the army. He was seriously wounded in the Korean War and was awarded a Purple Heart and two bronze stars. Upon returning home, he married my beautiful Mother and they shared 54 wonderful years together before she passed away suddenly. 

My brother and I grew up in a Christian home, bathed in love, calm, security, and contentment, under the care of the two finest parents anyone could have. Daddy was known as Pawpaw to his three grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

My heart is broken, he was the best Daddy a girl could have. I know he is present with the Lord and I rejoice in that promise, knowing too, that my Mother is also in the eternal presence of our Heavenly Father. 

For more of my Daddy’s story, click the link in my bio.
Happy first day of Spring! One of my favorite bloo Happy first day of Spring! One of my favorite blooming trees of springtime is the Kwanzan Cherry! I love pairing them with my Snowball Viburnum blooms to make a lovely flower arrangement!

Wishing you a most beautiful day!

#cherryblossom #springtime #springinthesouth #kwanzancherry #mygarden #southerngarden #victoriamagazine #southernladymag #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Welcome to Sunshine Cottage and the March edition Welcome to Sunshine Cottage and the March edition of Tea on Tuesdays. My inspiration for teatime is the beautiful linens from @april.cornell With the celebration of their 50th anniversary, many Heritage Prints from the archives have returned. Eden is one of the beautiful patterns that has returned. It is a soft purple paradise where butterflies float, roses bloom, and soft sage leaves levitate. As an April Cornell Brand Ambassador, I was gifted these gorgeous linens! I have been a collector of @april.cornell linens for many years…the floral patterns resonate with my love of English Country. 

I am serving my favorite, Earl Gray tea, from an Eileen’s Reserve teapot. Teacups by Grace Teaware and vintage Rose Chintz salad plates by Johnson Brothers add more floral patterns to the mix. Japanese Magnolia blooms were cut from my garden and placed in a lilypad teapot!

Mary @ homeiswheretheboatis.net and I welcome Nancy @nance_endless_summer as our special guest! LINK in bio for the blog posts. Have a wonderful day!

#teaontuesdays #teatime #aprilcornell #southernladymagazine #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry_ #homeiswheretheboatis #victoriamagazine #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #englishcountrystyle #aprilcornellbrandambassador
Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️ A few photos from Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️ A few photos from our visit to ☘️ Ireland, The Emerald Isle and a tablescape in our Appalachian Foothills ☘️

“May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow.
 May the soft winds freshen your spirit.
 May the sunshine brighten your heart.
 May the burdens of the day rest lightly 
 upon you.
 And may God enfold you in His love.”

#everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #stpatricksday
It felt like spring today with a high in the upper It felt like spring today with a high in the upper 70’s. Do you ever forget what you have? I do, so I compiled a partial catalog of my teapots. I have included some here and more on my blog. Click the LINK in my profile to see more! 

#teapot #teapotcollector #teapots #teaontuesdays #teatime #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry_ #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Monday! With March bringing the promise of s Happy Monday! With March bringing the promise of spring and looking forward to our garden awakening, I planted a blooming bulb garden in my Sunshine Cottage! The butcher block countertop under a window, was a perfect place for a mini garden. Muscari, hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils danced in the sunlight and filled the cottage with an amazing fragrance! 

It is Monday Morning Blooms with friends Lidy @frenchgardenhouse Shannon @bellebleuinteriors and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net

LINK in bio to view blog posts

#southernladymag #victoriamagazine #bulbgarden  #springbulbs #indoorgardening #muscari #hyacinths #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #thecottagejournal #portmeirion
Hello friends, I don’t know about you, but I am Hello friends, I don’t know about you, but I am ready for spring. Meteorological Spring begins this Saturday, March 1 and I am going with it. I have pulled spring flower arrangements from my blog archives. I hope you enjoy the flower therapy! You can see all of them by clicking on the  LINK in bio.

#springflowers #springflowerarrangement #springtime #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #flowermagazine #aprilcornell #gardener #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Tuesday! Welcome to the Sunshine Cottage whe Happy Tuesday! Welcome to the Sunshine Cottage where it is warm and cozy on this cold February day. It is Tea on Tuesdays and I have set a tea table with the “Blue Roses” collection that was a collaboration between @victoriamagazine and @april.cornell The exclusive porcelain pattern and matching linens have been used many times and I still enjoy their blue and white beauty. Instead of fresh flowers, porcelain ones require no arranging. Sweet treats pair perfectly with a traditional English Breakfast tea. I am joining friends Sarah @sjpa48 and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net

#teaontuesdays #teatime #victoriamagazine #aprilcornell #southernladymag #teatimemagazine #thecottagejournal #teatimepoetry #porcelainflowers #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday and Valentine’s Eve! In celebrati Happy Thursday and Valentine’s Eve! In celebration of the day, I pulled images from my blog archives for inspiration❤️💗❤️

Wishing everyone a lovely Valentine’s Day ❤️

#valentinesday #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #traditionalstyle #grandmillenial #valentinestablescape #valentinedecor #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy first Monday of February! After so many cold Happy first Monday of February! After so many cold days, we are experiencing a tease of spring with a 73 degree day that is forecast. After the gray and cloudy days, I needed a dose of color and decided to set a colorful citrus themed brunch! Using a bird gold and pewter stand, I mixed a citrus medley of lemons, oranges, and limes with pink and white carnations as the centerpiece. The table is highlighted with blue and white dishware. Fresh squeezed orange juice, French-pressed coffee and sweet treats of lemon poppyseed muffins, lemon cake with lemon icing, and lemon pastries are perfect for a small brunch. A faux lemon topiary belonged to my beloved Mother and seemed a perfect addition to a citrus-themed table! You are invited to join me and my Monday Morning Blooms friends, Lidy @frenchgardenhouse Sarah @sjpa48 and Mary homeiswheretheboatsis.net by clicking the LINK in my bio!

#mondaymorningblooms🌻 #citrus #floraldesign #brunch #southernladymagazine #victoriamagazine #thecottagejournal #grandmillennial #traditionaldecor #lemons #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Welcome to Sunshine Cottage where I have been fluf Welcome to Sunshine Cottage where I have been fluffing for Valentine’s Day! For many years my Sweetheart and I have celebrated February 14th at home where it is quiet, no reservations are required, and we always have a table by the window! 

I love the traditional colors of red and pink! Frilly carnations fill a vintage Staffordshire, ‘Charlotte’ pitcher which rests on an antique Limoges plate with a velvet gold-crowned heart. The plate stack consists of a Royal Stafford ‘Asiatic pheasant’ dinner plate, American Atelier ‘Baroque’ luncheon/salad plate, Johnson Brothers, ‘Winchester’ salad plate, and a vintage pierced Bavarian rose plate! I am a huge fan of mixing colors, patterns, and textures for a collected look. 

I have joined 17 table stylists for a Valentine’s Day Blog Hop. Click the LINK in my bio to see all of the Valentine inspiration!

#southernladymag #valentineday #valentinestablescape #valentinesday #victoriamagazine #romanticdecor #traditionalstyle #replacementsltd #flowermagazine #thecottagejournal #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Tuesday! On this very cold winter’s day, I Happy Tuesday! On this very cold winter’s day, I am serving my favorite tea, Earl Grey, in the Sunshine Cottage where it is warm and cozy! The magic of dancing sunlight enhances the table that is dressed with a warm tartan plaid throw repurposed as a tablecloth! ‘Winter Fauna’ bird salad plates from Pottery Barn (many years ago and now discontinued) remind me of the birds I watch from my kitchen window during the winter season. The Grace Teaware set adds more blue and white to the Spode ‘Blue Room’ dinner plates. Sweet treats were placed on a stack of Bordallo Pinheiro plates! A darling Hummel ‘Icy Adventure’ depicts a scene of an outdoor frozen pond with a pair of sweet ice skaters, a rosy cheeked boy and girl who have fallen down on the ice. I am sharing Tea on Tuesdays with Shannon @bellebleuinteriors and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net Link in my Bio will take you to my blog post! Stay warm and safe!

#teaontuesdays #teatime #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry #victoriamagazine #southernladymag #pjssunshinecottage #tea #graceteaware #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday! Mid January with cold weather and Happy Thursday! Mid January with cold weather and I am thinking about my spring and summer garden! I have ordered seeds that are to arrive tomorrow…zinnias, sunflowers, and giant marigolds! On today’s blog post (LINK IN BIO) I am sharing my photo journal from 2024’s garden! Grab a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and join me.

#mygarden #gardening #cottagegarden #gardendesignmag #gardengatemagazine #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #gardener #gardeninglife #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
My precious family enjoying a rare snowfall in Ala My precious family enjoying a rare snowfall in Alabama!
Rare scenes in our Northeast Alabama Foothills! # Rare scenes in our Northeast Alabama Foothills!

#snowday #winterwonderland #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
On this cold, gray, and wintry day I am sharing fl On this cold, gray, and wintry day I am sharing flower therapy to hopefully brighten your day! On the blog today is a review of my 2024 Monday Morning Blooms! Joining me are my friends, Lidy @frenchgardenhouse and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net 

CLICK LINK IN BIO for blog post! I hope everyone stays safe and warm!

#mondaymorningblooms🌻 #floralarrangement #flowerarrangement #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #flowertherapy #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #tablesetting #tablescapes
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