Martha's Favorites

CELEBRATING FATHER'S AND TEA CUPS TOO!

2013-06-17T17:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Tea Cup Tuesday No. 171! Hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Father's Day. As I thought about and celebrated with the precious father's in our family this weekend, I was so reminded of my own father who has been with the Lord for many years now. I am my father's daughter and I am so proud of that. He taught me so many things. Among the most important were the love of family, forgiveness and unconditional love. I know I was blessed. My father was good to his daughter, just like the song says. Noah is so into Superman, right now. I am so proud to say that his father, Kevin, is in so many ways, Noah's Superman. God has blessed us with wonderful fathers in our family. Fathers who have been good to their families.

On Flay Day I begun to change my home over to Red, White and Blue. It always marks the beginning of Summer for me. I love how the house looks all decked out for the beginning of summer. For the next few weeks you will see tea cups that have those very special colors. I will also continue to share some of the many ladies portraits that I have collected over the years. Right now, that is my favorite thing to collect. As you well know, this too will past and I will move on. For now, however, I will enjoy!

This first cup is a lovely Lefton. It is the American Rose. I am lucky enough to have the entire set, including canisters. It is so beautiful. I know my pictures will not do it justice. I have become rather fond of Lefton China. They make so many different and diverse items. Some of my most loved cups are by Lefton. This set must have been meant for everyday use, because it is strong, not the usual delicate china I normally love. It is rather expensive to collect, I am sure because of it's beauty. I was lucky enough to get the set at an estate sale for $35. I remember carrying the two boxes into my car and feeling almost guilty.

This next cup is Crown Ducal, Made in England. The pattern name is Florentine. It is cream color with beautiful embossed fruit and roses around the edges. This too, like the Lefton, is not the finest of china, but gorgeous just the same.

Looking forward to seeing all your beautiful tea cups this week. Have a wonderful week. Terri is so faithful at getting the linky ready each week. Bless you Terri, for all you do for me. My Princess Maya was in a wedding this weekend. She looked so cute, I get to see her more often because it is summer. This makes for one happy Grandma. I have also included a picture of my Sophia, trying to be good. Of course my handsome, fireman, Kyle. Who I have not seen in over a week. He has been on a fire.

Blessings, Martha

RIGHTS OF PASSAGE AND TEA CUPS CELEBRATING THE RED, WHITE & BLUE!

2013-06-11T07:49:00.001-07:00

Hello ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 170! It has been only a week since I last posted and I feel like everything has changed forever. Among the big events this week, Noah graduated from preschool. He is reading and has such an amazing memory. His family was all there to celebrate the big event. He told me to bring tissue, because it was going to be a tear jerker and it was. I am so glad I was able to share in his special day. He has been such a blessing to me.

This week also marked my sister's 60th birthday. We had all the bells and whistles for her and she was very surprised. I finished her scrapbook on the day before the party. Talk about last, minute. I was also in charge of all the decorations. It was so much fun to watch her enjoy all her friends and family.

Lastly my only aunt from my father's side of the family went home to be with the Lord. She lived 6 days from the time of diagnoses and she was gone. Not much time to get ready, if that can ever be done. I take comfort in that she is no longer in pain. I was able to say goodbye and tell her how much she meant to me and my family. I got closure and I am glad about that. We will be laying her body to rest sometime this week. My Uncle on the other hand is not doing so well. Please remember him in your prayers.

My sweet Fireman son, left to fight fires out of town. Please pray for me to hang on the Jesus with everything I have.

I am so glad to be able to share Tea Cup Tuesday with you. There is something so comforting about normal. I am in the process of changing my home to the Red, White & Blue colors. So today I will share those color with you. I want to start with the amazing Nippon, tea cup. It is wafer thin and the colors are so vivid. A true favorite of mine.

The next cups a set of Coalport's. The first one is a lovely full side cup with a pedestal base. I love to take out my favorite red, white and blue pins this next month as well.

Last but not least is this demitasse, Coalport of the same pattern. Perfect to start the summer fun.

I am also sharing two more of the many ladies I have in framed. Do hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

I want to thank you for all the prayer request you sent by my. I will continue to lift them to our Lord until you tell me they have been answered. Please feel free to email me or comment me with anything new. Have a wonderful week.

Blessings, Martha

TEA PARTY IN JUNE!

2013-06-03T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hello dear ladies! Happy Tea Cup Tuesday No. 169! Hope you are all ok and have survived the week of awful weather. Please let me know if you want me to pray for you, it seems with the fires here in California, I have been in prayer a lot more than usual because of my fireman. My son-in-law in a police officer, it took me months to really give him to God, I only take him back on occasion. I have to start this whole process again with Kyle. Please pray that the Lord will show me how to find peace about this new job. It has been hard at times for me. I have to show you a couple of pictures of Noah and Sophia. Noah is playing pirate and Sophia is cleaning the wall, after drawing on it wall. She denied it, of course, with crayon in hand. She finally confessed and said she was "sorry" in a way that only Sophia can say, just to satisfy you.

I bet you thought I forgot I was going to show you close ups of the two cups I shared last week? Well, I didn't and here is the beautiful Limoges. It is a large cup, maybe a coffee cup, I don't know. It is just perfect, notice even the bottom, where the signature is has a design.

The other cup was the Lefton. It was a gift from my best friend's mother. It will always be special to me. The best part is, the pedestal base. Love it!

The next cup is a California Pottery, demitasse. Notice all the crazing? Very common in pottery tea cups.

Last, but not least is the demitasse rose cup. It is an unsigned beauty. I have a set of six. Very, very cute!

Did I every tell you I collect Ladies in frames? I have them in every room of my home. I am going to be sharing a couple each week.

Have a great week. Please let me know if I can pray for you. Don't forget to visit Terri, she is working hard to get her garden tea party ready. Here is this week's link.

Blessings, Martha

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND AND TEA CUPS!

2013-05-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 168! Happy Memorial Day to everyone. I want to honor four very special men in my life. First, my Son-in-law, Kevin who I just love so much (at the end in solid green.) He served as a Marine during the Afghanistan War, Dennis, brother in law, Vietnam (the first guy in the green print shirt,) Randy, brother-in-law, (in the middle) served in the Navy and my dear Father-in-law, Al, who fought in World War II. I currently have three other family members who are serving in various branches of the military. We can never thank these men and women who fought to keep us free, enough. I am grateful that our Country stops to honor them today.

I do hope your Memorial Day Holiday has been peaceful, despite of the bad weather in the middle of the country. I pray for God's peace for you. My post today will be short, only because I have been in the yard all weekend, moving trees and plants all over. I love when I feel well enough to work on the yard. It is my place to feel the presence of the Lord. I think I have just over done. Between groceries, floors and closet clearing and family, I am done today!

I am sharing these two very beautiful tea cups today. The one on top is a Lefton, hand painted rose cup. The second one, is a Limoges Tea Cup. It is rather large and one of my favorites. I promise next week to give you a close up of these beauties.

Terri is getting ready for her garden tea, as am I. Here is the Linky for this week. Again, forgive me for making this so short. I think this is the first time I have ever done this. Have a wonderful week. Blessings, Martha

PRETTY IN PINK TEA PARTY!

2013-05-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Tea Cup Tuesday No. 167! Hope you are all well. I know that much of the country is having very bad weather and I am so sorry that this horror is happening to you. This weekend in Southern California was prefect pool weather. We all gathered to celebrate my Mother's 81st birthday. She was born the same day my father-in-law, Al was born. My father, was born on the same day my Mother-in-law was born, crazy huh? We only have our Mother and Father-in-law with us now. Noah and Sophia are both learning to swim, Noah is almost pool safe, Sophia not so much. This is a picture of my Mother and me, isn't she pretty? She is a sassy little lady and healthy as a horse! My son fought his first fire this past week and he got an offer to work at the Hot Shots, right near our home. He said yes of course, Sunday was his first day at that station. He was traveling to Ojai, California before, this is so much better for him.

I am sure you will hear from Terri that we will be having "My Garden Tea Party" these next few weeks. She is getting all the little details together, so don't forget to visit her today. I have to get my spot ready to party.

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Today I want to start by sharing another teapot. This cute Sadler is very old, but I love the rose design and is one of my favorite teapots to use.

I am finished changing my house over to a new color "Pink," so I want to share a pink Shelley with you. Shelley's like Limoges, are in a league of their own.

Look at this little tea pot by Artone, England. Isn't she the cutest thing you have ever seen?

The last cup I want to share with you is a Schumann, Arzberg, Bavaria, Germany. It is a trio, just look at the dessert plate. I love how it looks like lace.

Here is Mr. Linky for this week. I will be praying for your safety. Keep your eyes on Jesus, He will get you through the darkest night. Hugs, Martha

CELEBRATING MOTHERS AND TEA POTS!

2013-05-13T20:36:00.001-07:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 166! Hoping that you had a wonderful Mother's Day! I celebrated all weekend. Most importantly, I was able to
celebrate with my Mother, who I love so dearly. All my children and grandchildren were together so were my sisters and my nieces and nephews and we had a blast! Here are a few pictures of my sweet children.

I am only sharing one tea cup today. This is a Royal Albert, "Serena" cup. It is part of a very large pink cup collection I own.

Today I want to share some tea pots. Did I ever tell you I collect tea pots? I have so many, I want to take some time on Tea Cup Tuesday's to share them with you. This first one is a Seymour Mann, called Jolie Fleurs. It is one of my favorite tea pots. It is a ca. 1987 and you can still buy a complete set. The set is very pricey so, I am waiting until it shows up at one of my favorite thrift stores.

My next tea pot is a Porto from England. I really have never heard of this company, but I love the tea pot.

This last tea pot is a hand paint C.T. Altwasser Silesia. It is so beautiful, I have never found the matching creamer, but I do have the sugar bowl.

I am still looking to thank Ruthie Miller for my give away. If anyone knows her, please have her email me at marthasfavorites@aol.com. Please take a moment to give yourself a hug for being such wonderful Mamas and friends. Terri and I look forward to visiting you. Blessings, Martha

I AM LATE TO A VERY IMPORTANT DATE! TEA CUP TUESDAY!

2013-05-07T19:18:00.001-07:00

Hello Ladies and welcome to Terri and Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday No. 165! Sorry I am running a bit late today, I have had a busy week with the grandchildren and as you know, everything always stops when they are in the house! Noah went to his first Angel Game with his favorite uncle, while Sophia had her life changed with a new pair of shoes. She loves walking around with these heels.

I have to show you the wonderful giveaway I won from Ruthie Miller. For some reason, I cannot seem to get back on her site to let her know I got them. It is a wonderful buffet of all things tea. One of the most fun prizes I have ever seen offered and I won it. Thank you so much, Ruth, please let me know how to reach you. I threw away the box and I just want to say thank you so much. I just love every piece.

Did I ever tell you I collect Lefton? It is one of my favorite china. I am aware they are not of the highest quality, but the pieces are so cute. I have so much of Lefton, just because of the whimsey look they have. This first cup is one of my favorite. I know I have shown this one to you a couple of times before, but it is worth seeing again. It is completely hand painted with a pedestal shape cup. It is breathe taking.

The next tea cup I want to share is a Royal Standard from England. It is a lovely Chintz cup with dark pink flowers. It has a great ruffle shape cup. Lovely!

The very last cup is a very old BCM from England. Look at how full the design is. This Chintz cup is brilliant. It is my favorite Chintz cup. Very few companies can match the total detail that this cup has.

I am late also, changing my house over for May! I still have the teal up. It seems the older we get the faster time goes by. Don't you find that true or is it just me? Anyway, here is Mr. Linky for this week. Terri has a lovely tea cup to share with us. As for me, I have a lot of parties to visit.

Blessings, Martha

PINK TEA CUPS FOR THE PARTY!

2013-04-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Ladies: Happy Tea Cup Tuesday NO. 164! I have to tell you something funny. I told you last week that I am cleaning out that front closet for my son, so he can have a place for his Fire Gear. I found some baskets that I have had since 1975 or so. I decided to put them on Ebay and Pretty Vintage Things to sell them. Since I had not used the in as many years, it is time for them to go. They turn out to be made by the Choco Indians, from the Panama Rainforest. Quite expensive to say the least, some are selling on Ebay for over $1,900. I am not listing mine so high, but WOW! So ladies, it's good to do some spring cleaning when ever possible.

I do hope you have had a good week. My week was mixed with serious illness on my husband's side of the family, while celebrations went on my side of the family for my niece. Everyone is continuing to improve and more parties have been planned that I am in charge of. You know how much I love that! All the kids went swimming and had a wonderful time. I was the Life Guard! (Just a side note, I can't swim, but I sure can yell, if needed.)

This week I want to share pink cups. This first one is a pink lusterware cup with a couple featured on both the saucer and the cup. It is very pretty, had it for years! It is an unsigned beauty, my guess is that it was Made in Japan.

Cup No. 2 is a demitasse cup with the base, shaped like a tassel. Note the double handle on this pretty cup. A very pale pink color, perfect for a Spring table. Since I am being so good, lately, I am listing these first two cups on my website, Pretty Vintage Things. I have been on a roll ladies! Remember I give discounts to blog followers.

The last cup is a English Foley. It is just stunning, with very vivid colored rose tea cups. If you look closely, you will be the the artist signed the cup in front. I have been lucky enough to have Shabby Lanes, accept another article of mine for this seasons magazine. Hope you get a chance to read it.
Here is Mr. Linky for this week, you know what to do. Don't forget to stop and enjoy Terri's blog this week. She always has some amazing cups.

Blessings, Martha

TEA CUP TUESDAY NO. 163! SPRING IS IN THE AIR!

2013-04-22T20:07:00.000-07:00

Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 163! We are all breathing a lot easier since last week. It seems like anything that could happen to this beautiful Country of ours, did. Those two young men who did that awful thing in Boston, looked like kids. It is hard to imagine they could do such a horrible thing. Lives wasted and for what? Pure evil. Glad it is over! Nothing can stop this Country, we survive!

I have decided to do some serious spring cleaning. I need to make space for my son's new Fire Fighter Gear. Believe me when I say that is not easy to do in this house. Two large bags going to the Goodwill and a bin full of new things for my store. I cleared about one quarter of the closet today, still have a long way to go, but it's a start. I am so proud of myself. You can even imagine how hard it is for me to do this much clearing out.

I am ready to show you some fun cups this week. This first on is a Mikasa, Terrace Bloom. I don't know if you know this, but I collect dish sets. Shocking, I know. I have two sets of everyday dishes, one is a Mikasa. They are strong and beautiful and easy to use everyday. I think this cup was intended more for coffee. It is so pretty.

This next cup is a Hammersley & Co. You can always tell a Hammersley by the fine quality of the piece. This one is a demitasse cup. Love the thumb rest on this one. I had a boss years ago that was trying to cut down on his coffee. He would always use demitasse cups for his coffee. It was funny to see a big guy with this tiny little cup of coffee, but it worked for him.

The last cup is my favorite this week. It is a MZ Austria antique tea cup & saucer. The pattern name is Julie. It has a Art Deco design, with a delicate rose design. Very pretty. Looking forward to visiting you all this week. Terri has some stunning tea cups to share this week and a give away! Wishing you God's best! Martha

PRAYERS FOR BOSTON AND A FEW TEA CUPS!

2013-04-16T13:29:00.001-07:00

Hello dear friends: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 162! Posting a little late today, I had my grandson over for the day yesterday and to be honest he wore me out. He is into Star Wars these day and I was Darth Vader yesterday. Can't tell you how many times I was lasered and limbs removed yesterday, believe me, bad guys never make it. He did tell me I am the best Grandma in the world, even though I am old. By the time he left, I was exhausted and Boston, was the only thing on my mind. I went to bed thanking God that my family was all fine. As I prayed for the families that were involved in that horrible event. I even got to talk to my son, who is well into his Fireman training. He will be a first responder in a couple of weeks, like his brother-in-law who is a police officer. I have family serving in the military. Without the peace that only God can give you, I don't know how anyone can make it through the times we are living in.

My first cup today is this Royal Dover from England. Love the shape of this cup.

Cup No. 2 is a Duchess also from England. A very simple, and classic cup. Still deciding if this is a cup, I will be putting up on my website. Like I said I am trying to thin my collection down. I am teaching a Bible study next week about an organized home. (This is at the request of the Pastor's wife.) The hardest study, this almost, could have been, but not willing to admit to yet, hoarder, (I prefer Serial Collector) could ever do. (WHAT DID I JUST SAY?) So, I am trying real hard.

This last cup is a Royal Albert. This is my favorite cup this week. The shape is just wonderful. You can get a large amount of tea in this cup, which is a plus for me.

My Internet was down for most of last week, so I did not get to visit all of the parties. I am planning to stop by everyone's party this week to look at all you pretty things. Terri and I just love to look at all your tea cups. Thank you for being so faithful, even when I am not. Have a wonderful week. Blessings, Martha

AND THE WINNER IS . . .

2013-04-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies: I can't believe I am actually posting on time today. Happy Tea Cup Tuesday No. 161! I have so much good news to share with you. Our family is almost ALL better, improving daily. Thank you for your prayers. My son, Kyle, had his dream come true, he has been hired in Ojai, California as a Fireman! He is walking in the clouds. He has studied and worked so hard. I know I have shared from time to time about him, but it has finally happened for him. I just have to thank God. If that is not enough, I also won a couple of give aways this month! If you would have told me this last December, that things would be going so well, I don't think I would have believed you. All I can say is God is Faithful even when we are not. Here is a picture of the lovely give away I won from Rhonda from A Little Bit of French, http://alittlebitfrench.blogspot.com. Rhonda has a blog and a store that always make you slow down take a second look and wipe the drool from your month. She is so talented. Look what I won! Thank you so much Rhonda. I will show you my other win, next week.

As promised, I too have a give away announcement today. The winner of my 800 plus followers give away is . . . Jocelyn from Just A Little Southern Hospitality. I have followed her blog for a few years now. I am glad her name was drawn by Noah. I may have to get Sophia to drawn the names from now on, that perfect Grandchild is reading now and doing 1st grade work in preschool. Handsome and smart, what more can a Grandma ask for? He likes to make dates with me (I take him to the movies). He is so cute. Anyway, side tracked, Jocelyn, please email me with your address and I will send your goodies to you!

Did I ever tell you I collect Fenton? Well I do, I realized this month, that I have a lot of Fenton in Teal. I have had many ladies ask me how many tea cups I have, to be honest, I don't know. I pack them away with each month's decorations. They go under the house and do not come up again for a whole year. A little over the top, but so you know, and all fears are calmed, I am not a Hoarder! That's my story and I am sticking to it.

The first tea cup I am sharing today is a Haviland Limoges. Limoges is my favorite china. This is a very old lovely Teal Rose demitasse cup. Despite the age it is in perfect condition, no crazing at all. Pieces were always elaborately fashioned and embellish with gold. That is what is amazing about Limoges it can look new, no matter how old they are. I will show you my dinner dishes next week. They are amazing, over 90 years old and they look brand new.

Cup No. 2 is a vintage Paragon. It is part of a set of four that I own, each cup in a different color. It is part of the Antique Series, Georgian. Very lovely!

The last cup is a Royal Albert, pattern name Hyde Park. Love the combination of teal and pink roses.

Thank you for joining this party that Terri and I have each week. We are so grateful for each of you. I know you have been praying for our family. Just want you to know God has heard your prayers! Have a wonderful week, filled with His blessings, Martha

Here is Mr. Linky for this week.

HE IS RISEN!

2013-04-02T09:59:00.001-07:00

Hello Ladies: Once again, welcome to Terri and Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday No. 160. Hope you all had a wonderful Easter. I have been under the weather, however, who could not be happy on Resurrection Sunday! God is so good to me, I feel like our whole family has turned a corner and that God has only good things for us. Just look at these precious Grandchildren, these pictures catch their personalities perfect!

Monday I began the two day process of putting away Easter and choosing the next month's colors. You know I have been trying to thin out some of my treasures at home. Here is a peek at just one shelf on this huge china cabinet to let you know what a challenge I have. I purchased this monster at an estate sale. My little, 90 pound, mother and I were going to put it on top of my CRV and bring it home. To make a very long, funny story short, it took 4 men to move it very slowly. I have every inch covered with treasures. I have 5 china cabinets so (even though I am not a Hoarder) I have my hands full.

I have picked the color Teal to work with this month. As you can see, I have a lot of items in this color. So my first cup this week is Foley, from England. This cup is so ornate and beautiful, the saucer is like a small bowl. It is just beautiful. It reminds me of Terri. This is definitely her taste, don't you think? Can't remember where I got it, maybe Terri gave it to me! Remind me if that is true Terri. ("The old gray mare, she ain't what she use to be!")

Cup two is a gold and teal Chintz Colclough. Teal and pink look so good together.

Cup No. 3 is this gorgeous Aynsley. Love the shape. I paid $3.49 at the thrift store for this amazing beauty. What is it about a cup that was acquired cheap that makes it that much better?

The last cup is this amazing Crown Staffordshire tea cup. It is teal with gold leaf roses. It also has a bowl like saucer, just lovely.

Next week is the big give away. Last chance to enter is this week. Please let me know if you want to be a part of the give away.

Have a wonderful week. Remember we are God's children and He loves us. Blessings, Martha

Here is Mr. Linky:

TEA CUPS AND GIVE AWAYS!

2013-03-26T09:39:00.001-07:00

Hello Dear Friends: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 159! Hoping you are all doing wonderful and almost ready for Easter, as we enter Holy Week. As I told you last week, my week was very busy, but it all worked out very well. Class was a lot of fun, had about 30 ladies all making tassels so different.

I do have a picture of my give away this week. I am adding a tea cup to it, since we are all about tea cups and bling. Remember all you have to do is leave a comment on here, or Facebook. Let me know if you want to be a part of the give away. Also, please let me know if you want me to show you how to make them.

My first tea cup today is a very old Lefton. I love the pedestal base and the 40's looking flower design. I am hoping to put it on my website this week, a hard one to give up. I made a decision to thin out my tea cups. I think it is the hardest thing I have done in a while. I just have so much of everything, have to do something. Don't want you to think I am a "Hoarder." :)

The next cup is by Porcelain Treasures. It is a new cup given to me by my Mama. Aren't the feet cute?

My last cup simply reads "Made in England." It is very old and the cup is a fine china. Love the colors of the Roses.

Don't forget to visit Terri. That wonderful lady has been carrying this whole tea party for me when I just could not. I will never be able to thank her enough for her kindness to me. Please pray for my Sophia, she is very ill, makes me so sad. It is a virus, so we have to wait it out. Wishing you a blessed Easter. Hugs, Martha

Here is Mr. Linky:

TEA CUP TUESDAY & GIVEAWAY!

2013-03-19T09:19:00.002-07:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 158! Hope you are doing well. I am running late, something that has become a bad habit. I could look for someone to blame, but why? I am trying to get ready for Easter and the families parties. I am also in charge a of large craft day for my church this weekend. With a little luck I will do a tutorial later on for you. We are making tassels out of vintage salt and pepper shakers. I am planning to make that as my give away for the 800 plus followers, winner. I will start taking names this week with this post. All you have to do is follow me on here or on my Facebook. Just let me know you want to play, enter as often as you would like. I will run it until April 2nd. I will have a picture of it next week for you. Trust me they are so cute! I am trying to get Easter Baskets together for my grandchildren, I love doing that. We are gathering at my sister's home, her house is the largest and it has a big pool. I can't wait until you post some of your Easter Basket ideas. I want to do something different for the Grand kids. I know I can count on you for different and wonderful ideas.

This week I am sharing my St. Patrick's Day Cups. (Better late than never.) I hope you enjoy them. I am starting however with this wonderful old, Belleek Tea Pot. I have had this for years, it has that wonderful old mark. Look at the handle, it is just stunning.

Cup number 2 is this Shelly. I don't own a lot of Shelly, simply because of the cost, not because I don't love them all. This cup is very fine porcelain. It feels like you could crush it with your hands if you hold it too tight. It is an old cup, so that is part of the beauty of this wonderful china.

The last cup I am sharing is this Royal Rover. It is very pretty, for some reason, every time I see it, I think of a Royal Albert. My husband and son both have Irish blood in there veins, so does that make this Mexican an honorary Irish? :) Ok, any reason to party.

I am going to be teaching for the next couple of months for our ladies group. Topic? How to keep an organized home. Not easy for a Serial Collector, maybe the pastor wife is trying to tell me something! Have a wonderful week. Say a little prayer for me. Thank you for your support and care. You are so good to me! Blessings, Martha

Here is the Linky for this week. As usual, Terri has her act very together and I hear we are going to see some new cups. I can't wait to visit!

TEA CUP TUESDAY & PRINCESS MAYA'S BIRTHDAY!

2013-03-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hello ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No.157! So glad you could stop by, even after last week's post. I have to say, you were all too much. I could feel the love from my blogger friends and I am so glad I shared. I started a list of prayer requests just for you. So many of you shared what you were going through and I was just amazed at the strength that is out there. You truly are amazing women. Life for me has continued to be trying, husband was moved to another hospital because of phenomena and a dear friend of over 30 years went to be with the Lord on Saturday. Somehow, we are managing to continue living our lives, trusting the Lord for His good things. I have some new pictures of my Princess Maya, we spent Saturday together. She is going to be 10 in a few days. I think her smile can light up an entire room. Already she knows what her style is and what she likes. It is like talking to a small adult. The first picture is of my daughter Monique, my Mother, Maya, Noah and Me. The pictures were taken in the dark on my phone. I am so sorry they are dark.

I am sharing this wonderful cup by Leneige. This antique shape demitasse cup and saucer is European, but that is all I know about it. It is very fine porcelain. It features beautiful violets, my flower of the month. Did I ever tell you I collect violets? Violets on everything, plates, jars, cups and vases. I just love the way they look at Easter. I have been trying to thin things out this past year, but as I have begun getting ready for Easter the violet items multiplied as did the bunnies. There are bunnies everywhere.

The next cup is a Royal Albert. It is very simple, yet so very stunning, as only a Royal Albert can be!

This last cup is a O & E G Oscar & Edger Gutherz & MZ Moritz Zdekauer, Royal Austria China Tea Cup and Saucer. It has this gorgeous green and rose garland design. I am selling it on my website for my friend. I just had to pretend it was mine for a moment. It just screams Easter!

If you want me to pray for any request, I will add it to my list. You can email me at marthasfavorites@aol.com or if you feel comfortable, leave it on a comments. I just noticed, I have reach 800 followers, since I always have a give away to celebrate a 100 new followers, look next week for a new giveaway. I will make it special for you. Don't forget to visit Terri, she always has beautiful cups to share. Have a wonderful week. Blessings, Martha

Here is Mr. Linky:

TEA CUP TUESDAY AND A LITTLE MORE!

2013-03-04T20:51:00.001-08:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 156! Well, "Lucy, I think you have some explaining to do!" I know you have noticed that I have been off and on since Christmas with my blog. I do want to apologize to you for that. The truth is my husband has been gravely ill since Christmas Eve. There are days when I am not sure he is going to make it or not. Before I say anything else, I do believe that God is in control of his life and that He is not done with him yet. Last week, however, it was just more than I could take emotionally and I had a slight melt down. He has stopped eating and it just seemed hopeless. I barely had the strength to email Terri. She has been such a real friend to me and has encouraged me through this whole thing. I never meant for this blog to be a place to share sad things. I have always wanted this to be a place where I can share my lovely family, beauty, crafts and of course tea cups. Sometimes life just happens and it is more than we can handle without God. Many of you have asked how I am doing and I know are praying for me. I thought honesty was the best thing right now, even though it is so sad. I have been feeling better since this weekend, trying to take things one day at a time as God commands.

This weekend was Noah's birthday! He had a wonderful time. There were so many people and children at this party, I am not sure how my daughter managed it, but she did. It was a "Star Wars" birthday. She made Princess Layia head pieces for all the girls and light sabers for the boys. Noah is lucky enough to not only have a Grandma, but a Great-Grandma at his party. My children were lucky enough to be raised along side their Grandparents and it is wonderful to see that Noah too has that privilege. I can't imagine what my life would be like not seeing my Grandchildren, everyday they say or do something wonderful. I feel so blessed to be a part of their lives. At this party place, there was a large throne chair, as you can see, Noah just loved it. I hope you can see the birthday cake it was so cute.

Ok, enough of family, on to the tea cups. You ladies have been sharing your Easter Tea Cups already and I have been behind, (that else is new). This first cup is one of my all time favorites. It is a can shaped, unsigned beauty. Look at the handle on this cup, it is the Christian Fish. The cup is very fine and is hand gilded. It is just beautiful.

The next cup is a Royal Albert. Love the shape and the look of this cup. You can always tell the quality of a Royal Albert.

My last cup for the week is has a similar design as the Royal Albert without the quality. It is very pretty just the same. It too is unsigned, however, if I had to guess I would say it is Made in Japan. Thank you for your faithfulness to this party, even when I have not been so faithful. Don't forget to visit Terri, she always has some amazing tea cups to share. You know what to do with Mr. Linky. I have also listed some tea parties I will be joining this week. Blessings, Martha

TEA CUP TUESDAY ON A NEW COMPUTER!

2013-02-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies! I know, I am late, so sorry. I caught a bad cold a couple of days ago and have been fighting a fever this whole time. I slept all day yesterday. Today's post will be short because, I am trying to learn this wonderful new Apple computer. It is so smart and so fast. I have had it a whole 2 days. The photo program is amazing. I can't wait to learn it. I first want to show you this new crown I made for my niece, Rachael. She is going to be Miss Universe at school. I think it turned out ok, even though it only took me 2 days to make it. I usually take 2 weeks to make one. What do you think?

Because my other computer crashed I lost all my pictures, over 10,000 :(. My son is going to try to see what he can do to get them back for me. I do hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day! My was the best I have had in years. Dinner, roses, chocolates and my Valentine, can it get any better? Yes, it can, my computer arrived! You don't realize how much you use it until it is gone.

Today's tea cups you may have seen before, I really do not remember, however, I will be able to keep better track with this new photo program, just give me time to learn. I have shed a few tears in frustration about this very smart computer. Don't get me wrong I love it, it is my mind that needs up-grading. This first cup is a Coalport, it is just stunning. It looks like it has been crimped.

This next cup is a Clarence, it's English. A beautiful black and white with gold. This is my second favorite type of cup next to the ones with roses.

This last cup is Florentine, also made in England. It features a band of fruit around the top and the base of the saucer. Look at the handle so beautiful. Here is Mr. Linky for this week. Thank you Terri for your faithfulness, please be sure to visit as many as you can. I am going to have fun visiting with my new computer. Blessings, Martha

ROSES ARE RED, PINK OR GOLD - TEA CUP TUESDAY

2013-02-11T18:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 153! Hope you had a wonderful week. You may have noticed that I did not get to visit you last week. My computer is failing. My son has ordered a new one for me, it should arrived this week sometime. I hope it is not like my phone, to smart for me to use. I have finally learned to answer it and text. I can take pictures, I just don't know how to view them yet. I know, I am so slow at learning new things. Hopefully, this computer will be easy. I am posting this with my old computer, keeping my fingers crossed. I noticed last week when I posted on the ipad you could not leave comments. Hopefully this one will be better.

Well, do you feel the love in the air? Valentine's Day is almost upon us. I have some fun cups to share this week with you. Did I tell you Sophia likes to pretend she is drinking tea with me? I have a demitasse cup for her on the coffee table and she has tea every time she visits me. For someone that had so much trouble liking her Grandma, I can proudly say "Sophia Loves Me!" It took her over a year, but she did it. She hugs me, calls me on the phone, and gives me kisses. I worked very hard for that one's love, you remember? Noah was a piece of cake compared to her. I need to bug my other daughter for a current picture of Princess Maya, I have not shared one with you lately.

This week I am sharing rose cups. What says "I love you" better than roses? This first one is a Lefton, pedestal, handpainted cup. I love the gold on the outside and the pattern on the inside. Just perfect!

Cup No. 2 is this Stoke on Trent, Pointons. I almost forgot I had this cup. It is a lovely pale pink on the inside with a gold and silver rose pattern on the outside. Look at the lovely handle, just stunning!

This last one is a Schumann Arzberg, Germany Bavaria. It is so pretty. I love the dessert plate to this one.

Here is Mr. Linky for this week. Our winner of the lovely Sadler teapot was Carmelina, from Creative Carmelina. Please send me an email with your address to marthasfavorites@aol.com. I am having trouble receiving emails, so you might want to wait until the end of the week to send it. I will have my new computer by then. Have a wonderful week. Blessings, Martha

I am joining the following parties as well~

Heart and Home ~ http://angelwingsandapronstrings.blogspot.com/
A Return to Loveliness ~ http://www.adelightsomelife.com/
Tuesday Cuppa Tea~ http://antiquesandteacups.blogspot.com/
Friends Sharing Tea ~ http://bernideensteatimeblog.blogspot.com/
Home and Garden Thursday ~ http://adelightsomelife.blogspot.com/
Share Your Cup Thursday~ http://jannolson.blogspot.com/
Cottage Style Linky Party~ http://lavendergardencottage.blogspot.com/
Home Sweet Home~ http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/

WE HAVE A WINNER! HAPPY TEA CUP TUESDAY!

2013-02-04T20:22:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No.152! I hope you have all had a wonderful week. I have begun my spring cleaning already. Not quite sure why, maybe I just want things to warm up. So. Cal. has been on the cold side lately, I preferred things to be a bit warmer. This week I am a ready to announce the winner of my five year anniversary give away. I had Noah pick our winner. (This will probably be the last time he can do that because, he has started reading.)
Our winner of the lovely Sadler teapot is Carmelina, from Creative Carmelina. I don't know if Carmelina remembers, but the very first year I started blogging, she sent me a gift. It still sits in a place, honor in my home. She sent it to me for no reason. Something I said in my blog touched her. Here we are full circle. I hope she remembers me. Carmelina, congratulations. Please email me with your address.

I am having a little computer problem, so I am using an iPad. Not so sure how much I like it so this post might just be a bit short. It is so funny because, Noah can work this thing better than I can. "Grandma, it is easy, let me show you!" Can you just imagine what kind of world he will grow up in?

I would like to share this Royal Sealy China, Japan this week. It has a wonderful, yellow color with a Lusterware center and the cutest little feet. I think it is perfect for Spring. It has the ruffled cup shape that makes it so special.

Cup No. 2 is Fritz and Floyd mug. I usually do not share mugs, however, this one is must. It is white porcelain with the handle shaped like Fairy. Can you see her wings? This cup is circa 1980 and is very special to me.

This last cup is a Royal Austria, unfortunately is has a very slight flee bit on the rim of the cup. Nothing you can see, however, you can feel it. This cup is so beautiful, notice the gold garland that is used to decorate the entire cup. I would love that design on my walls. It just looks so elegant.

If you get a chance check out website. A dear lady just added a video of my products and I can now take phone orders. (Just like the big people! I am so happy!) I am going to cut this post short, while I am still ahead and still sane. Please excuse the errors, I did the best I could with the iPad. Here is Mr Linky for today. Blessings, Martha

LOVE IS IN THE AIR THIS TEA CUP TUESDAY!

2013-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 150! Wow! Thanks so much for your continued support of this fun event. It was a pleasure visiting you last week, it's amazing the different tea cups we see each week. I hope you remember, I am celebrating my fifth year of blogging and will be giving away the lovely Sadler Tea Pot that you see on the top of this post. I will also be including some bling for you viewing pleasure along with the tea pot. All you have to do is leave a comment on my blog, or on my Facebook, or my website www.prettyvintagethings.com. Please let me know that you want your name included in the give way. Enter as often as you want, each entry will give you another chance to win. The drawing will happen at the end of the month. As I reflect on the past year of blogging, I am so aware of the love that my family has continuously given me and how much your friendship has encouraged me. God has been amazing to me. I am not the same person who you met five years ago. Again, thank you for your friendship. You will never know how much it means to me.

Have you noticed love is in "the blog air?" So many of your blogs are already including Valentine Decor. I just have to join in. It is my third favorite holiday, next to Christmas and Easter! It is so fun to decorate my home for it. I started this week. Kisses, hearts and lots of love are beginning to appear everywhere you look. I know it will please Noah, who is always looking forward to the next holiday and recently complained I left Christmas up too long for his taste. Look much he has grown lately. It is hard to believe he is only 4 years old. He even lost his first tooth!

The very first cup I would like to share with you is a gift from my best friend, Deby. It is a Lefton in a pedestal design. Love the color and the pale pink roses.

Cup number 2 was also a gift from my one of my dearest friends, Terri, a couple of years back. The cup is KPM, Royal Ivory. The cup reminds me of Terri every time I see it. Unfortunately, I still cannot take as good of a picture as Terri does. I have this wonderful new camera that my children gave me for Christmas and still, her pictures are so much better. I will have to keep practicing.

The very last cup is a Haviland, Limoges. It has this lovely pale pink background and of course, it is hand painted. These three cups are so special to me. They are perfect to begin Valentine's decor with.

Once again I am having trouble with Mr Linky. So, what I will do is go to Terri's post to see who I need to visit. So, sorry for problem, it seems that when I put up the linky it does not let me have a "comment" section and everything goes to the middle of the page. If any one knows how to fix it, please let me know, thanks. Have a wonderful week! Terri and I always look forward to being "wowed" by your homes and of course, those lovely tea cups.

Blessings, Martha

HAPPY NEW YEAR TEA CUP LOVERS!

2013-01-14T19:46:00.000-08:00

Hi: I am back! Happy New Year Ladies! It seems I have been AWOL for a couple of weeks. I think this is the very first time I have done that. It is a long story, but one that will has to wait. I ask only that you would keep our family in prayer, it seems we are all going through one thing or another. I know God will give us Grace to see it though. I have read all your New Year's Resolutions in the past few weeks. Mine is to work on learning to give more forgiveness and grace to others. So much of America's problems would could be avoided if everyone just practiced these two things.

Along with celebrating Tea Cup Tuesday No. 149. This month marks my Five Year Blog Anniversary! I would have never thought that I would be blogging for five years. My life will never be the same because you. I have made life long friends that have changed my life forever. To celebrate this big event, I am having a give away! (Did you hear I won Terri's give away?) I have only been trying for years, YEAH! (Thank you my dear friend!) This give away is open to followers only. Every time you comment on my Blog, Facebook or Pretty Vintage Things website, you will have your name entered. The drawing will be held at the end of the month. I do hope you like it. It is a vintage Sadler Tea Pot!

This week I am going to share some wonderful tea cups that I will be selling for a friend on my website, Pretty Vintage Things. I had a problem with coveting some of these beauties. If you see any you like, let me know, I do give discounts to friends.

This first one is a pretty Lefton China footed teacup with gold trim. I believe it is a green chintz pattern. The background looks like green crackle, and has all over flowers of blue, orange, yellow, and purple with green
leaves. I am a big Chintz lover, so this one is just what the doctor ordered.

The next one is Lefton. I love pedestal teacups. This one is hard for me to resist. It has a 50's look to it.

This next cup is a also a Royal Albert from the Hyde Park Series. I love the teal color and the pink roses.

This last one is Royal Sealy, Japan. Love the pink color with the lusterware back and cute little feet.

Here is Mr. Linky for this week. (I HAVE TAKEN OFF THE LINKY TO SEE IF THAT FIXES MY COMMENT PROBLEM. LINK UP AT TERRI'S, I WILL CHECK YOUR TEA CUPS FROM THERE THIS WEEK.) Looking forward to getting back to visiting and seeing all your pretty tea cups. Don't forget to visit Terri. She has faithfully kept the party going. Today, we talked on the phone for the first time, she has the sweetest voice! Thank you so much for five faithful years. I feel so blessed to have you in my life. Have wonderful week.

Blessings to all. Martha

Today I am joining these tea parties!

Ruth
http://antiquesandteacups.blogspot.ca

Kathy
http://adelightsomelife.com/

Sandi
http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.ca/

Bernideen
http://bernideensteatimeblog.blogspot.ca/

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2012-12-25T08:44:00.000-08:00

May the Lord sweetly bless you this Christmas Day! Sending hugs to all my dear friends. See you next year for Tea Cup Tuesday! Love, Martha

WISE MEN STILL SEEK HIM! TEA CUP TUESDAY NO. 145

2012-12-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

'He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds' Psalm 147:3

Our Tea Cup Tuesday Community, sadly once again, must mourn together for an unthinkable loss. The pain seems almost unbearable, and I am across the Nation. Our families gathered this weekend to celebrate the 16th birthday of my beautiful niece, Rachel. All the small children were running in between the adults and the grown children were enjoying the fellowship of friends and family. As adults, we were so aware that for many, this normal activity would never be the same again for the families in that small community.

I do know we serve a great God, who will comfort those who mourn; who sees the beginning and the end; who knows "Why?" Every family in one way or another is touched by mental illness. This only makes us more aware of how much we need to help individuals and families who are in need of our understanding, not judgement. More than anything our Nation needs to turn its eyes back to God. Many of you have already shared your hearts about what happen, I imagine that many more of you will share your heart this week. Remember that Jesus is our "Prince of Peace," and nothing is too difficult for Him.

I am sharing this special cup this week that expresses my wish for all of us, "Merry Christmas."

Of course a Christmas Tea would not be the same without the traditional "Spode" Christmas cup.

Sorry about missing last week and the somber tone of this post. I have been a "party animal" lately and on the other, I just had to share my feelings with you. Here is Mr. Linky for this week. Special thank you to Terri, who is always so faithful.

Sharing some Christmas Tree pictures today. I have been lucky in that last year's Christmas Tree appeared in a magazine, hoping for the same for this year's tree. Sending extra hugs to all of you this week. Love, Martha

IT IS BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!

2012-12-03T21:14:00.000-08:00

Hi Ladies: Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday No. 143! The first tea of December and the beginning of the Christmas Holidays. I have been busy getting my home ready to welcome Christmas, my family and guests. Next week I will have my Annual Christmas Tea. We are going to be blessed with a visit from a touring choir. I am so excited about all the festive occasions we will be celebrating. I am one of those people who just love getting together with family and friends. I never get enough!

I will begin this week to give you a tour of the various Christmas Decorations around my home. This week I will start in the Entry. That great wreath was a re-do. I love buying simple wreaths and then making them my own. I love how it came out.

For my first Christmas Tea Cup I am sharing a Mikasa, CHRISTMAS HOLLY, with a footed cup. I love this china, I use Mikasa as my every day dishes. They are always so beautiful.

The second cup I am sharing is a Charltonware, Rouge Royale Teacup and Saucer with Gold, Burgundy and Brown Luster. It has a wonderful gold interior. I am especially fond of tea cups with all gold in side the cup. You feel so special drinking from it. Charltonware is a favorite of mine. You only get two this week, because I am not done with all my decorating. I hope to have the table set for the Tea Party next week you so can take a peek.

I have a Sophia up-date! Do you remember I told you that my new granddaughter, Sophia, was not very user friendly? I think after a year and a couple of months, she finally loves her Grandma. She skipes me and tells her Mother, she wants to see her Grandma. I just had to share that, I worked long and hard for that. I watched her the other night and we had a perfect time together. She kissed me and hugged me, yes, Sophia, did all that. I wasn't dreaming. It was a Christmas Miracle! I had to share! Sophia loves me! Can it get any better than that?

Here is Mr. Linky for this week. I know you are all filled with Holiday decoration plans. Please try and stop by for a visit at these wonderful ladies homes. Don't forget my dear friend Terri, she always enjoys your visits, as do I.

God Bless you! Martha