Formal entertaining is like cooking on steroids. It can be stressful enough planning an informal gathering, but we can thank the Edwardians for setting the bar pretty high for formal dining, when we work particularly hard to impress. We can see from the dining scenes on Downton … [Read more...] about Entertaining was Serious Business At Downton Abbey
Fun Food History
Tea Meetings and Truffles in Paradise
Another time for us to share tea and polite conversation. This typically leads to a discussion of the weather which has been most exceptional out here in our corner of the Commonwealth. One might also comment on the state on one's own garden and I am pleased to report that my … [Read more...] about Tea Meetings and Truffles in Paradise
Daisy & William: Like Chocolate and Peanut Butter
It's that time of year when we all see red: Valentine's Day, the one day of the year formally set aside to celebrate love. I am finally one of the lucky ones, living with Lord D, my loving and devoted husband. Not to take our love for granted, we strive to make every day … [Read more...] about Daisy & William: Like Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Afternoon Tea Basics and Rock Cakes
For many of us, there a few indulgent pastimes which live large in time strapped imaginations. The English tradition of gathering for tea, cucumber sandwiches, and sweet scones is right up there on our bucket list, along spa day with the girls. But what do most us non Brits … [Read more...] about Afternoon Tea Basics and Rock Cakes
Let Them Eat Soup: Downton’s Soup Kitchen
There is much happening in the WWI world of Downton Abbey. In the most recent episode aired on PBS (Season 2, Episode 4), Ethel gets her wish for a life outside of service, Matthew and William play hide and seek with the Hun, miracles occur when the Crawley sisters perform a duet … [Read more...] about Let Them Eat Soup: Downton’s Soup Kitchen
