Stick A Fork In Me, I'm Done

For the last ten years, I have been using my great-grandmother's sterling silver for everyday use. In the beginning, it made me feel special, elevating all of those takeout moments into something a little more highbrow. But this morning when I reached for a spoon, all I found was an unappetizing black film coating dull and lifeless metal. I know my silverware needs to be polished, but didn't I just labor over that chore a couple of weeks ago? I can't take it anymore. Today I broke down and ordered dishwasher safe, stainless steel flatware. Convenience winning out over style feels kind of like trading in the convertible for a minivan, but I am hoping that I can satisfy both the angel and devil sitting on my shoulder with this Kyoto Flatware from Crate and Barrel. I already had a few rogue pieces of this pattern floating around, and I like it for it's similarity to Tiffany and Co.'s 1961 sterling Bamboo pattern below. (The pattern is discontinued, but can be still be collected via Replacements).


The good news is that my old silver will be polished and ready the next time I need it. In the meantime, I may take a cue from the Asian motif and incorporate orchids into the holiday table as Cottage Living has done.