Salty Talk...

As the days close in, and the evenings begin to have a bit of chill, setting the table inside, once again becomes a special ritual.  My grandmother always changed out her light summer linens and place settings on October first in favor of her more formal settings, the big silver candelabras, and  she put out the pretty crystal salt cellars.  The candlelight made the salts twinkle like little jewels on the table; and I always was excited when she asked me to fill them before dinner.  

Have you seen our selection of vintage salt cellars?  We have a large case filled with a terrific selection.  Some are sold as sets, while others are fun to mix-and-match.  They add so much to a luncheon or dinner table setting and make a clever and memorable hostess gift.  Add one of our containers of delicious, French salts, and you've got a truly lovely gift that will be long remembered.

Keep these in mind for engagement, anniversary or weddings gifts.  What a lovely tradition to begin a collection for someone special and add a few for each holiday.  I keep an odd little one on the window above my sink to hold my rings when I'm cooking--another great idea for these lovely little dishes....

For more on the history of salt cellars, CLICK HERE for a video from Martha Stewart--very interesting!

W is for Water

Freshly delivered to the kitchen department at Clever Girl....a new book that will inspire you to infuse your water and put a little magic in your glass. Infused Water: 50 Simple, Gorgeous Drinks for Ultimate Hydration and Health, will give you some delicious direction.

Everyone knows we should drink more water – sales of reusable water bottles have soared as we seek to cut down on our plastic and maintain maximum hydration. But it hasn't been the most inspiring of drinks – until now.

Infused Waters offers 50 beautiful, healthy drinks that will help you get through the day's challenges. With chapters on fruit infusions, herbal waters, and spicier blends, you'll find ways of adding a little vitamin C to your office bottle, and floral fragrance to the dullest of drinks.

As summer fades into fall, the dryer indoor air becomes the enemy of hydration.  Forced air and winter winds can make our skin dry and parched.  This new book is filled with lovely recipes for hot and cold water infusions - simple ways to jazz up your normal glass of water and help keep you hydrated.

There are some lovely ideas that also look (and taste) amazing in big jugs - perfect for entertaining. And some soothing, hot recipes too.

Defiantly an excellent book to keep on hand for inspiration and filled with great information!