Four Weeks Out - - - Lunch for 9

Four weeks ago today I got my new right knee . . . and, now, four weeks later -- I have company for lunch -- nine guests!!!!

Yes, I feel like having company and I did pick an easy menu -- some of which could be made ahead.

Often for fundraisers in our community, I donate a luncheon at Linderhof. They've always went well and I get the pleasure of having some interesting and new guests for lunch.

This was one of those gifts. And last week, when asked if I could, because of out of town company, I felt that I would be able so we made arrangements.

And yes, I was ready . . . and able!

The table with the colors of fall! The big blue bowl centerpiece stayed on the table -- full of pumpkins, gourds and bittersweet. Low enough so that conversation could flow.

A dark green cloth which is always a good background for the blue and white Spode.

The napkins were white Irish linen tucked into my silver napkin rings. My hotel silver which is so versatile and my favorite water/tea glasses. I did get some "what a pretty table" comments when my guests sat down.

It was an easy lunch and definitely a fall lunch -- green salad to start with a raspberry vinaigrette and cherry tomatoes and a sprinkling of rosemary walnuts, roasted pork loin with a cranberry pear port sauce and rosemary mashed potatoes. And for dessert -- fresh apple cake.

The cake slices, lined up like soldiers awaiting their turn on the dining room table.

I must admit that new knees are wonderful. By 2 p.m. the guests were gone, the pots and pans washed and put away and the dishwasher filled with everything else humming away. The old knees never would have been that far along at 2!

It's Thursday which means that it's time for Tabletop Thursday so please join Susan at Between Naps on the Porch to see everyone's Thursday tables. I must admit that it's nice to not have to post a reprise!