Two-thirds of a new tea set

On Saturday, I visited one of the big T.J. Maxx/HomeGoods stores, the one in Smyrna, and I was delighted at all the new teawares I found in colorful spring pastels. There are some really pretty new teacups, and I almost came home with one of them, but instead, I bought a new Gracie's teapot ($12.99) and creamer ($4.99). I had $10 on a gift certificate left to use, so my "set" was really more like $7.98. Not bad!

I'm still in my "blue phase," I suppose, because these lovely shades of blue are so appealing to me. And for some reason, I found this simple banded design quite charming. I think it could be dressed up or down very easily, and it reminds me of china from the sixties!

Here's a close-up of the detailing. Curiously, another blue-toned design I saw had only a teapot and creamer available as well. Do you suppose someone in Smyrna is collecting sugar bowls and going around and scooping them all up? Whatever the case, I'll be going by at least three (possibly four) T.J. Maxx stores this week, so I'm hoping to find the matching sugar bowl—just in time for a little springtime decorating!