Another year passes, another cousins’ gathering. And a new (honorary) ‘cousin’ joined the fold this time. She fitted in seamlessly (despite going astray at the end of our local stroll. She was found and brought back though).
Pot-luck lunch and tea where everyone brought something and it all fitted together perfectly. Good food, good company, good weather. This time in our garden.
All that remains are good memories, some fruit cake (courtesy of my step-father – mum’s recipe, livened up with his own twist of added whisky), and a washing line of clean(ish) table cloths*. Plans to meet again. And a few more tea stains on the cloths. Any good tips for getting those out?
*I’ve collected the cloths over the years from charity shops. Most cost about £5. Each represents many hours of careful work by some woman (I’m guessing these are by women, though of course I don’t know that for sure). I’m saddened that they weren’t treasured enough to avoid ending up in charity shops, but I love, appreciate and use them, which I hope makes the labours (of love?) worthwhile. Some are fairly rough and ready (though far far better than I could manage), and others are exquisitely made, with tiny cross stitches and caught thread work.
the magic jug 
I love tablecloths like this, too. I have my grandmother’s collection, most made by her, some by her friends. I’m glad you are rescuing these beautiful cloths from charity shops near you! Tea stains… I use Vanish soap on any stubborn stains in my laundry and it works for most. Good luck x
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Oh thanks for the tip Sam. I definitely give that a try. Lucky you to have your grandmother’s collection, I’m sure you treasure them.
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An impressive tablecloth collection. I have one passed down by my Grandma – it hasn’t left the sideboard drawer for more than seven years. There are just too many boys in this household for the finer things!
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Ah well, the tablecloth will still be there, enjoy the boys while they’re around – time passes oh so quickly when you look back on it!
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On small stains in awkward places near coloured threads I use a cotton bud dipped in neat bleach and apply it with great care.
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Oh that’s great, I’ll give it a try. Thanks Lucille.
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