Back to Reality

Today after dropping my DH at the airport for a business trip to Sacramento (he's actually "actively retired" and back as a consultant!), I desperately needed some "retail therapy" after back-to-back weekends with visiting friends..................loved having you but need to to get back to reality after all that talking, eating, drinking and gallivanting!!

Shopping area near the airport includes local Homegoods store next door to a TJMaxx - here's what I found....in TJM, the "Summer bag" for banging around and travel - genuine Fossil brand at 50% off (you know how we all look for bargains). Love this bag after looking for several weeks for one that met the criteria..............fabric, lightweight, lined in pretty floral cotton, many pockets. and looooooooooong adjustable strap for handheld, shoulder, and across the body when traveling. Too many backpacks being pilfered I hear - and I do love my backpacks for convenience.

The tablecloth is gorgeous for $7. on a clearance shelf! 100% cotton but looks like linen - love the striped border on the damask print. This is for the outdoor dining table on the deck - realized I need a long rectangular cloth which I can cut and velcro to go around the umbrella. Bit embarrassing when I set the new table for company and had to use two cloths!

At Homegoods the blue dishes were irresistible so I bought four for $12. - real Summer theme with starfish, shells etc. and I like them layered on these cream rustic dishes.

See those two tablecloths? Eclectic tablescape!!!!!!!My popular, easy to make, French gateau with fresh juicy pears (you can use apples, apricots etc.). This was quickly scoffed down slathered with whipped cream at afternoon tea in the gazebo. It was amazing to have two sets of dear friends visit for consecutive weekends and have gorgeous weather each time. We certainly enjoyed dining alfresco much of the time - I felt I was back in France or Italy - and of course nothing shabby in that. When enjoying those countries I loved eating and drinking meals under the sun, an umbrella, or a pergola covered with climbing roses and wisteria vines.