It is always a good day when I can visit Christianson's Greenhouse and Nursery. It's a little wonderland of plants and possibilities in the Skagit Valley. So on this particular day last year, my friend Amy and I had driven up to the area  with no set agenda. Our goal was to see tulips and have a chance to talk; the best kind of Spring afternoon. We drove to Christianson's to get in the mood for spring. Everything looked beautiful. And this is where Amy found some wonderful chocolate tile "paint" sets. I'll write about them soon.
At Christianson's, they have a lovely gift shop full of unique housewares, beautiful books and special antiques. Guess what I found? I actually made squeaking sounds when I noticed it on the shelf...                                          
A covered casserole in my beloved formal china pattern Lavinia (black raspberries)! Cab you believe it? I did not have this piece and I was over the moon. What a thrill. My pattern was never sold in the US, so we had to order pieces from Canada for our registry. I've only seen it on display in Bermuda. That's how rare it has been for me, so this was shocking and wonderful.This casserole is oven-safe and I will bake my heart out with side dishes galore. 
My china pattern AND tulips, this was a delightful day.
#skagitvalley #gardencenter #lavinia #antiquefind