It was slated as the ‘Ladies Christmas Tea’ at our ‘new’ (as of a year) church. They needed volunteers to help decorate a table. Throw a few decorations on it and bring in a few good dishes, is what I assumed.
I was wrong, and yet I did it anyway.
The list of instructions was a page long. As I read the list, I went into tea table decorating anxiety mode. However, two things happened, as I reviewed the instructions. Betty (my mom) had given me almost everything I needed and she’d be delighted to know that the stuff was getting used. I also now had the opportunity to be creative. Not only be creative, but be creative for others.
I ordered a three tier stand and made a new Christmas runner.
I wanted to make an ornament as a ‘take away’. I’d already had the words that spoke to me, especially this year. I’d been saving wooden spools, because I knew I’d need them ‘someday’. Then I turned to My Librarian for a second opinion and help finding just the right font, because the right font always matters. (If you don’t understand that, I can’t explain it to you).
As I gather everything on the list, I know Betty is beaming.
- Water glasses – ‘Betty & Joe’s’ old gin & tonic glasses
- White luncheon china – from the family (Jensen) ranch, which makes it very old
- red napkins – graced many a Christmas table set by Betty
- Sterling silver – Betty’s Rosepoint
- teapot – The one My Loving Spouse’s mother bought him, as she couldn’t believe he didn’t have a ‘proper’ teapot in America
- The greens cut from the fir outside
- The angel garland purchased at the Ely Cathedral in England on our first trip together.
The wine glasses…purchased quickly that morning by My Loving Spouse as we have a habit of breaking them. What can I say, when you use something they don’t always last.
My table was actually one of the simplest, but I didn’t mind. I enjoyed how much my Mom would have loved it and how it was a reflection of me. The treats were delicious, but luckily someone else signed up for that job.
The time with the ladies was worth it all. The tea gave me a chance to do something for others, be creative and helped me find my Christmas spirit…
and I am blessed.
You conjured up so many memories. I can just see the Daleridge dining room decked out for Christmas dinner. Funny how we all fit in around that table. All the love of our moms and families is brought to life in this story. We are now the grown ups. Funny how I never quite feel like I measure up- but I can see in your table that “we” really do. We’ve hame their love and creativity I. Us and “we” can shine. I have tears of love coming forth as I write this. You are always I. My heart, little Sister. Forever. Merry Christmas and a big high five.
Dear Sister of Mine, I was waiting for your message as I knew you’d understand the most. Oh, the Daleridge dining table with all the legs up and all the extra chairs unearthed all crammed in where being together mattered more than things like elbow room or being able to get up. Love you and Merry Christmas,
A beautiful and tastefully done tea table! You knocked it outta the park! Merry Christmas to all of you and glad to hear your are healing. Hugs.
Merry Christmas to you all, Mims. Thank you so much for your kind words.
That was beautiful! Loved the reuse of the spools!
Thank you so much, Dear John. You know how happy ‘we’ get when we get to make something. BJ’s card was gorgeous as always. Merry Christmas!
Your table is exquisite! You put so much of yourself into its creation and it shows. I’ve been working on photo Christmas ornaments and thinking of you! I do miss our scrapbook and football days, card making, and other crafts. Glad you are able to participate in tea and hopefully other gatherings.
Thank you dear friend, I can imagine the ornaments you need to make are expanding each year! I too miss our creative times together. Merry Christmas and much love,
VERY impressive!!!!! I’m sure your mom was also feeling a thrill of hope! Xoxo.
Thank you, sweet friend, you know so well the thrill of hope.
It’s absolutely beautiful and just charming!! I’ve got tears in my eyes right now because I’m reminded of so many wonderful crafting moments with you. I miss you most this time of year my dear friend! I need a good long phone call SOON. Ho Ho Hope and love always—Pat
Dear One, I haven’t put too much out this year, but Ho Ho Hope is on the piano. I always think of our fun days when I get it out. I miss our times together. We’ll talk soon! Love you!
Oh, you brought tears to my eyes…all those memories of the places and people we remember and love. I love you, Cousin.
Thank you dear Cousin, missing you and planning to see you more next year!
Hi Ellen,
I (many) live vicariously through your posts.
We hope you two are feeling better & better from your flying adventure.
Merry Christmas
Love,
Rob & Candy
(One of the Seattle cousins)
Dear Handy Cousin, Thank you so much. I am mending well. Can’t wait to have all of you back to the farm, I hope this spring for a good family gathering!
Merry Christmas,