" MRS. DUNCAN'S TEACUP "

Pensive is the word that lingers in my thoughts as I ponder the symbols of February in my mind ... Hearts , doves, cupids and roses parlay back and forth in a merry heartbeat... For when else could one take the time to read and sip camomile tea with friends.

I have a cabinet in my tearoom that is filled with such lovely treasures, mostly from the past memories of loved ones. ... which means, they were inherited or gifted to me. This is one such treasure, that was passed on by my mother -in-law, Peggy.

It's a opalescent cup and saucer that a friend hand painted for her mother in 1924 .... I dare say, that this lady must have been very special, as the tea set sat on display, in her mothers cabinet since Peggy was a child... occasionally her mother would sip tea from it.

In those days, most Valentines and gifts were handmade as sentimental tokens of friendship and affection. People freely expressed their gratitude through a written card or artistic work.

Luckily, it was signed and dated by the mysterious, Mrs. Duncan, January 1924 ... That does seem, so long ago, doesn't it !!!! It conjures up all types of questions and curiosities like .... I wonder, who Mrs. Duncan is ? ... What did she look like ? ... What was her favourite tea?

I had made inquiries into her identity, however, at present, shall we say, that she was simply an artist friend who created a gift so fine that has become a family heirloom.

Mother of Pearl is what I think of , each time I see the set and I'm amazed at the fine artistic details that Mrs. Duncan has included on this darling teaset.

I can also imagine, how very exciting it must have been to receive such a beautiful gift from a friend, especially during those years of distress when money was hard come by.

Mrs. Duncan's style seems to echo the painters of the Art Decor era, doesn't it !!! How sweet are the rosette clusters and circular vines that meander around the cup, they seem to wrap around my heart too.

Also notable is the dramatic black band that outlines the artist's imaginative perception on this teaset ... Tis' such a lovely memento !!!

During February , I do wonder, what I should gift my loved ones and friends with on Valentines Day ... Gifts from the heart come in all shapes, sizes and flavours. I have even, found chocolate shaped roses ... but perhaps, a nice chat and cup of camomile tea with you is the best gift of all !!!

The business of " Love" does not belong to the retailers and business owners... It really belongs in and from your heart.... Please do have a BEAUTIFUL and HAPPY VALENTINES DAY.