Monday, September 27, 2010

The Importance of Setting a Table...

Normally I would put my own spin on the ideas that float around the ole "WWW" but here is a good reason to decorate your tables on a daily basis. I hope your kitchens are a cozy spot for family meal time...if not, you know who to contact!
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The Importance of
Setting a Nice Table
By Leanne Ely, C.N.C.


Dear Friends,

Setting a nice table is often overlooked but its importance should not be minimized. Having a nice table setting affects your enjoyment of the meal which can even affect how well you digest your food. After putting in the effort involved in thoughtful menu planning and healthy cooking, don't tarnish the meal by having a disorganized presentation or worse, eating in the living room or in front of computers and televisions.

This is a time where you can either go it alone, or you can call in the children and husband to help with the table setting. This means silverware positioned properly around the plate and matching or complimentary glasses and everything in its place. Not only will this make dinner more enjoyable and relaxing, it will teach your children manners and the proper way to do things in a civilized society. Believe it or not, being able to eat politely and practice good conversational skills is something your children need to learn as eating dinner with an employer or even on a job interview could be in their future.

Little touches can really add to the mood of the meal. A nice centerpiece can add to the atmosphere. You can choose something that matches the room or go with a theme that is appropriate for the season. This shows your family that you care about making mealtime special for them. Children can help out by making center pieces during craft time. Sometimes it's the smallest touches that work quietly to make a big difference in overall mood.

Sitting down to eat a meal calmly is very important for digestion. It's not healthy to bounce up and down from the table to grab forgotten spoons or napkins. Try to anticipate the needs of your diners as well as the meal itself by setting out appropriate utensils and condiments in advance. Perhaps create a checklist for children who are setting the table so nothing is forgotten.

If you have some extra time, a cute vegetable garnish like a radish rose or carrot curls is a great way to make the plate look prettier while sneaking in some extra nutrition. By taking the time to set a nice table before the meal begins, you can ensure that everyone is able to sit down and enjoy their meal in peace.
Love,
Leanne, Your Dinner Diva
Saving Your Dinner since 2001, http://savingdinner.com

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Copyright (C) 2010 www.savingdinner.com Leanne Ely, CNC All rights reserved.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

The Arrival of Fall...


Before summer is over, I had to get one last project in that is pure summer fun. While in Germany, they were having a quarterly event where you can throw out unwanted items. It happened to be the day I showed up in town. I got a few items to convert into storage units but found these deck chairs in need of new covers, and I added the pillows for extra comfort. Check out my Facebook album for more "Treasures found in Germany"...


To signal the fall season, Domicil design will be a vendor at the Dover Apple Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct 2nd. We will have samples on display, pillows and table runners for sale (in time for holiday entertaining) and we will have a "Needlepoint Pillow Raffle. Come and say "Hi" and enjoy a few apples and a beautiful fall day!