REMEMBERING TASHA TUDOR'S GARDEN

Except for a day or two here and there, we really haven't had  spring weather.  I'm wondering if at some point it will just suddenly become summertime.  My winter coat is still out and ready to wear.  I am looking forward to seeing some of your teas in the garden today.  This morning I reflected on the book "Tasha Tudor's Garden" which we love!  I'm not so sure if it is still in print but I'm sure you could find a used copy somewhere.

As you remember, Tasha was an artist who illustrated children's books and an avid gardener.  Her garden in Vermont is open to the public even now that she has passed.  You might enjoy a tour.  I believe they now refer to it as her "Secret Garden" too. You do

speak Japanese right? 

HERE

Please help yourself to tea and some lovely strawberries as I show you my book.

I have shared that this summer after 28 years, my shop will be closing.  We are in the process of having a GOOB Sale (Going Out Of Business).  Things are going well and we are pleased.  Some ladies are coming in crying......yes actually crying and there are many sweet comments.

  I have little girls that come to my store every week just to play at the play table. Sometimes the grandparents who are babysitting them bring them in.   I will miss them.  Others are all grown up now as I have had a play table for the last 17 years.  They come in and point to the table and share their story with me of how they used to play there.  Most call me "Miss Bernideen".

If you watch this video of Tasha Tudor you will be inspired.  I think maybe this week our cold weather will disappear and I shall be able to get out in the garden.  Great fun!

FOR THE LOVE OF ENGLISH TEA WARE!

Just to put ones mouth to the cup

To feel the fine details

To hold the delicate handle

It all comes together

At tea time - lit by candle.

Praise to the roses and hail to the buds

The flowers hand painted

With sweet little rubs

Pass me a plate

Some sugar and cream

For tea can not wait
It's my tea time dream............
Bernideen 

   

TAKING TIME FOR THE THINGS YOU LOVE

Last week on Monday, April 27th we began something wonderful at my shop. - After 28 years of having a tea and gift shop called "Bernideen's"  we started a going out of business sale.  This is not a bad thing but rather the beginning of a new chapter in life.  They call this retirement although I plan to be very busy. 

 I love to do so many things!

One of the things I love to do is go to antique malls and flea markets and relax with my husband.  Yesterday was a beautiful day and after church we ventured to Denver where I found this darling Arthur Woods teapot at a very large antique mall.

So what does one do with ones self when you no longer have to go to work?  Well, here are just a few things:  bake, cook, garden, sew, go antiquing and flea marketing, grow some plants from seeds, can some jams and pickles later in the summer, go to a farmer's market, go to yard sales, make things for the family for Christmas, learn to make birdhouses, visit all the garden centers, take some classes, take a photography class, get to do ordinary chores when you aren't so tired and on and on!  No, there is  just one more very important one: having time for hospitality and ladies over for tea.

 My table below had lots of old tea stains which all came out with a good wet brushing with baking soda.  I have cleaned up several lately with that and it seems to work well.

I am also sharing another "Afternoon Tea Tiered Tray" above that my husband made for me.  I am so spoiled as I now have 6 everyday ones and 3 seasonal ones.  I think I have a preferred choice of a levels with a luncheon plate on the bottom, then a dessert and a butter plate on top. 

May is always such a welcomed month. 

 I wonder what the least welcomed month is? 

 I guess it all depends on where you live.