Three Cheers for the Red, White and Blue!

Happy 250th Birthday, America! Although I was just a kid, I am old enough to remember the Bicentennial celebration and recall watching the festivities in Washington, D.C., and around the country on television. The proudest American moment I've had recently was attending the U.S. vs. Australia World Cup game in Seattle. Red, white, and blue were proudly being worn by everyone (except the Aussies!).

The U.S. won 2-0! The event was so well-run, and Seattle was spectacular—beautiful weather, well-behaved crowds, and just all-around fun! Honestly, all the stars and stripes got me in the mood to set this table.

I've been designing this table in my head for some time. I'm a fan of transferware and was thinking about the Spode Cranberry Archive Collection plates and the Staffordshire Liberty Blue Monticello. With plaids, stars, transferware, and polka dots, this table has become a fun blend of patterns that I love! It wouldn't be a table if I didn't sprinkle in a bit of Fiesta. I added layers of Lapis and Cinnabar Fiesta beneath the Monticello plates, along with gold chargers and frosted glasses with gold polka dots for a playful touch.

The tablecloth is Laura Ashley, and the runner I have had forever. Red and navy placemats rounded out the plate stack. Different kinds of plaid napkins and my everyday flatware, Mikasa Harmony, complete the table. I used a Fiesta Linen fluted vase filled with flags and sparkly stars. I wove into the stars battery-operated lights in little rattan stars to add additional sparkle. My #2 son loved the Fiesta Linen color and wanted a classic Disk Pitcher in that color; who am I to say no? He was helping with the table and added it.

Our plans for the 4th of July will likely include grilling outside and enjoying the pool and yardwork. How ever you celebrate your 4th holiday, enjoy!