"Abundant Blessings" of tea!

A week ago, I got the miraculous news that out of 93 entrants I had won the lavish "Abundant Blessings" giveaway from Bernideen's Tea Time Blog! By the end of the week the wonderful package of goodies had made its way from Colorado Springs to Newnan, and I have been celebrating ever since.

Although I haven't been to Colorado (yet!), it certainly feels like I got to visit Bernideen's famous shop and toss whatever lovely things I wanted in my basket. Like this incredible embroidered tablecloth highlighted with metallic threads ...

... a new tea book, a 2010 tea calendar and a brand of drip catcher I've never tried before ...

... Bernideen's own delicious Apple Cider Tea mix (the first thing I tried), some cranberry scone mix, and something I have been craving this fall, some Harney and Sons Cranberry Autumn Tea!

And last but not least, this wonderful harvest-themed teapot! The new decor prompted me to redecorate a small table in the dining room so it will look Thanksgiving-y for family visiting this week. First, I elevated the teapot by placing it on one of the clear glass mini-cake stands I got a few weeks ago.

A pumpkin which wasn't carve-worthy has retained its shape, so I put it atop this old favorite cake pedestal I've had for years. I love that I can change the ribbon out to match whatever the holiday I'm decorating for.

Of course one thing leads to another when you're redecorating, and I realized the pastel chintz teacups hanging overhead would have to go. I plundered through my "tea cabinet" in the kitchen and gathered cups in tones of cream, peach and brown.

I think they blend with the new display just fine. (I don't particularly want a housekeeper, but I would dearly love to have a photo stylist!)

But then I realized I had placed a dish of potpourri *behind* the teapot and it really wanted to be in *front* of the teapot.

There. Done. Oh, except that I think I need a little more color back there. How about an old silk flower arrangement fetched from a cabinet out in the garage? Yes, that works.

Done. Really! (And thanks again for the fabulous giveaway, Bernideen! Your generosity was certainly an "Abundant Blessing" to this home!)