Tuesday, January 4, 2011

"Thyme" to Celebrate


January 4, 2011

"Thyme" to CELEBRATE



These little birdies told me that this . . .



Special lady was celebrating her 90th birthday. I know! She doesn't even look like she could be an octogenarian, much less someone moving into her 9th decade.



So to celebrate a special aunt's 90th birthday, some of the girl cousins gathered for lunch and an afternoon full of laughter as we shared stories of times spent together through the years.



I'd put away the reds and greens of Christmas, but left up this gorgeous wreath of fresh greens that I received from Liz @ Rose Vignettes. It still smells wonderful, and with its silver accents it fit right in with the party colors. Be certain to stop by Liz's for a visit this Friday as she hosts Fresh Cut Friday.



I added other white flowers with silver about the house.



Champagne mimosas started the celebration with a toast to the birthday girl.



Along with a few nibbles of pretzels.



The tables were set with mini pots of thyme,
details of silver and gold . . .



And black and white.



Hour glasses reminded us of times that we've shared through the years.



I layered black and white Courtly Check chargers on larger chargers in Ambiance Vintage Garden. These were topped with black plates and small white soup cups.



The smaller table was set with pewter chargers and checkered plates by Royal Stafford.



Shortly before the guest arrived I added a rose bud at each place setting for a touch of color.



The coasters with their elegant gold monogram were in the $1 bin at Michaels. I didn't use a table linen, so these were perfect to use under glasses of iced tea.



The luncheon offered another opportunity to use the little silver salts and peppers that were one of my birthday gifts last year.



The champagne bucket, repurposed to hold Winter Cloud phalaenopsis orchids, once belonged to my aunt. She gave it to me several years ago because she no longer entertains. It's perfect as a vessel for flowers.



Lunch was served buffet style.



~ Potato Leek Soup ~ Spinach Salad ~ Onion Walnut Muffins ~



And of course Birthday Cake!



The cake was Lemon Lavender Pound Cake. You can find the recipe here. It's a rich, moist cake made with sour cream. The glaze is lemon juice infused with lavender flowers. I highly recommend it!



Brownie bites, baked by a niece who couldn't be with us, were passed around as the birthday girl opened her gifts. Rich dark chocolate and yummy!



Everyone took home one of the small pots of thyme as a memento of our gathering.



I wish you special times with family and friends during 2011.

Joining