by Helen Kain | Feb 26, 2026 | Makers Behind the Magic, Recent
Miles Mason may not have been a ceramic scientist like Josiah Spode or Josiah Wedgwood, but his business acumen and eye for trends led to one of the most important developments in British ceramics: Ironstone China. A merchant-turned-potter, Mason helped revolutionize...
by Helen Kain | Feb 26, 2026 | Appetizers, Savoury Pies, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes
This salmon tart strikes the balance between ease and refinement. Flaky Rough Puff pastry forms a sturdy base for a generous layer of cream cheese, lightly seasoned and scattered with poppy and sesame seeds for texture and quiet savour. Smoked salmon is arranged...
by Helen Kain | Feb 26, 2026 | Cakes, Desserts, Recent, Spring Recipes
This lemon raspberry cake is a classic. Pale, tender sponge layered with softly whipped Swiss buttercream frosting, and the tart punctuation of fresh raspberries. A ribbon of lemon curd runs through the centre, offering just enough sharpness to keep the sweetness in...
by Helen Kain | Feb 26, 2026 | Afternoon Tea, Blue, Home, Spring Tablescapes, White, Yellow
There is something about late winter and early spring days that call for afternoon tea. The unpredictable weather doesn’t support an outdoor setting, but shifting to an informal setting in the sun room is almost as good as outdoor dining. The wicker furniture...
by Helen Kain | Feb 19, 2026 | Green, Home, Purple, Recent, Spring Tablescapes
As you can see from the surroundings, winter has not let up in Ontario. But my favourite grocer-cum-flower-shop in Toronto had potted hellebores and deep purple snapdragons, so I shall carry on pretending that spring is imminent. Digging around in my...
