on tablecloths

When it comes to a properly set table, nothing commands attention more than a tablecloth– be it stained, wrinkled, or dare I say– floral! If your house is anything like mine, the dining table is really just a large flat repository of distractions; mail, homework, lap-tops, and other domestic detritus– like last night's wine glass with the dime-sized jelly-like dregs at the bottom (but I digress). A tablecloth can help lay the ground-work for a focused, neutral zone, where you and the family can shut out those daily distractions and create a time and place, including of course a well thought out and lovingly prepared meal. (Except maybe for Tuesdays. Tuesdays are kind of busy...) Now where the weekday tablecloth is a symbol of slowing down and savoring the evening meal– the weekend tablecloth sets the groundwork for celebration! A place where family and friends can gather together to break bread, share ideas, save the world, and exchange guffaws– through a sea of wineglasses and candle sticks– which project glowing, dancing circles of red and amber. Inevitably someone will overshoot a pour of Barbera or Chinon, resulting in a garnet Rorschach on an otherwise pristine white tablecloth. That is except for that tomato sauce stain next to "somebody's" plate... (way to go Giovanna!)

So unless you have a fabulous, hand-crafted, organically shaped table with sensuous curves at either end (hi A & M!)– get rid of the place mats, go to your closest "home store" and get a couple of table cloths! Of course, while you're at it, get some cloth napkins. It's ok if they don't match.