♥ R O Y A L B A B Y ♥
Let’s start with a baby gift to celebrate, because crikey, IT’S A BOY! MUSICA!
Must have something to mark this lovely event happening our own Mother country!
Something for a Royal Baby’s first year, my Baby Love book for new moms and dads to write about their own little royal baby, and two 2014 wall calendars to record his every adorable achievement. If you leave a comment at the bottom of this post, this signed set of goodies could be yours. Even if you aren’t welcoming a baby into your family right now, Baby Love is a jolly good thing for anyone’s “hope” chest.
Getting ready, washing cups . . .
It’s Sunday morning, the party is at 4:30 pm, we have no baby, but I’m happy because finally, the sun is just starting to come out.
I’ve been lining the little shelf over the sink with flowers . . . squeezing them in amongst the Beatrix Potter People.
‘Course Jack is helping me . . . vaguely eyeing Jemima, thinking, “Don’t jump!”
Joe hung up our new Downton Abbey bunting (white), and the flag we brought home from England; I plumped the “God Save the Queen” pillow my girlfriend Elizabeth brought back for me on one of her visits to England . . .
The Twine experts of all time came from California to help ~ that’s Diana on the left, and Elizabeth on the right. They have tea parties for their girlfriends every year, it’s a tradition they make new hats for each event. They are their own kind of royalty and their names (and the sunglasses) prove it. I loved having royalty at our party.
Other people see them as royalty too, here’s Paparazzi Cathy in her posh little ruffled gloves.
Here’s another photo of them and their hats! too cute! Just a tiny idea of how fun and creative a tea party can really be.
Diana and Elizabeth are cousins, their moms were sisters. They’ve known each other all their lives. You can see by the flags in the window that they love England too, and have also done the pilgrimage to Beatrix Potter’s house! I met Elizabeth when she bought my first house from me in 1989. The two of them left yesterday, but I had them here all week!
Making the perfect cucumber sandwiches was a snap for these two . . . along with egg salad sandwiches and smoked salmon with cream cheese on pumpernickel.
I baked an Orange Lavender Polenta cake . . . I’ll show you how to make it in the next post.
. . . I made cold slaw, carrot salad, stuffed eggs, watermelon balls with yogurt and brown sugar. We bought butter cookies from the Scottish Bakehouse, and Chilmark Chocolates too. Sixty guests, friends, neighbors, family, kids, and house guests.
Joe set up a bar, made a giant pitcher of Pimm’s Cup, with orange, lime and lemon slices and cucumber sticks . . .
Proof that it takes a village . . . More bunting drapes the arbor, there’s the cousins surveying the area . . .
It’s all just busy-work, because all we can think about is when is that baby going to be born! Someone runs to the TV every 15 minutes just to make sure nothing is still happening. And it always is.
We brought the Union Jack bunting home from England . . . I’ve been saving it for just this very day.
Of course we needed a talented person to play A Fine Romance and It’s a Long Way to Tipperary during the party … John Alaimo brought his piano.
Getting it all together, teaspoons, sugar bowls, teapots and tea cozies . . .
We had little cloth covers for the creamers that keep any critters out of the cream!
I love the little details of tea . . .
Diana brought a cake topper she made for the Orange Lavender Polenta Cake ~ it looked darling. You could get one too, and see some of the other wonderful things in Diana’s Etsy store. While you’re at it, if you’d like to see what goes on in Elizabeth’s designing life, you can go to her website at Renovation-Design.com.
I forgot to take pictures of the food and tea table! This is the closest I got to the table with the camera. (Fear not, I got a lot closer without the camera!) The book about Diana (on the table) was a gift from our friend Linda . . . I’m sure Diana felt at home with all the other royalty ~ we loved having her here.♥ Just a little bittersweet without her. How she would have loved this moment.
We know this baby is coming, it’s the talk of the town, but when, when, when?
The Lady Olympia is going from person to person to ask “Will it be a boy or a girl?” What do you think the name will be?” Turns out the consensus is, it’s a GIRL, and her name will be Elizabeth! A few got a bit closer, saying it would be a boy, and they thought perhaps “Charles” or “William”. I like James for a boy because isn’t Jimmy just the cutest for a little Prince? King James would be nice for a king too. We’ll know pretty soon.
Lady Olympia takes a time out for hugs with her dapper white-linen and boater-clad Dad, the Duke of Earl, and her big sister, Crown Princess Astoria.
The Duke’s braces were brilliant!
Princess Marjorie, Grand Duchess Robin, Lady Diana, Countess Jill, and Queen Elizabeth. ♥
Queen Elizabeth tells a funny story!
Princess Irenie lives in London and came to visit Princess Samantha who just graduated from St. Andrews in Scotland. I’ve known Princess Samantha since she was a little baby. When she was two and in her mother’s arms, she leaned toward me touching my earlobes, and said in pure baby talk, “I lob youa eahwings.” Cutest little thing in the world!
Because they are five hours ahead of us here on the East Coast, by this time it was dark in England and looked like this, and the brightest light was London. I think Princess Catherine was probably feeling a little bit queasy by now, probably walking around the living room, or cleaning out the kitchen cupboards. But we didn’t know that for sure. We thought she might need some help to get this baby going.
So just before the party was over, as twilight set in, we made a big circle and held hands. We said a prayer for Catherine, for 
William, and for the baby. We prayed that the birth would be easy for everyone, the baby would be healthy and most of all, that it would come soon. Then we raised our eyes to heaven, lifted our hands into the air, and all together, we dropped our hands and said, Pushhhhhhh, and again, still holding hands, arms up and then down (like we were the white flag at a Nascar race), Pusssshhhhhh, and one more time: up, down, pushhhhhh. Like a mantra and a prayer. And guess what? Must have been moments later, the royal couple checked into the hospital! Well, I guess SO! And THAT is how we got the baby born.
Oh, just now as I’m writing, the new parents with the new Prince just came out the hospital doors. So exciting! It seems to have gone swimmingly and all our prayers were 
answered. Everyone looked beautiful, I saw tiny fingers in their first royal wave. Now, for the name . . . what do you think???? Be sure to leave a comment, and soon Vanna will choose the name of the lucky winner of the Royal Baby Gift! Did you hear that the royal mint will be giving a lucky 2013 silver coin to every British baby sharing a birthday with the new royal baby? The coin comes in either a pink or a blue pouch as a gift to new mommies and daddies. Just one of the cute things they do over there.♥
I hoping for James with Spencer in there somewhere in remembrance of Diana. I have my own Prince Jimmy, not so little anymore at age 33! Named after my dad and me. 😉 I was glued to the tele myself waiting word of the royal birth. And, I can’t wait for A Fine Romance to arrive to start planning my first trip to England following in your footsteps. Thanks sharing your celebration with us!
Happy to do it and have you along Jamie!
My granddaughter Khloe Lauren was born this past Monday the same day as the new prince. It would be wonderful to win such a lovely keepsake for her. A very special day indeed. Looking forward to meeting you in Sandwich in August and having some books signed. Can’t wait to add your new book to my library. Hoping to experience “Illumination” on the Vinyard this year. A busy August. Life is Good.
Yes, a very busy August! Life is Good ♥
My baby name pick would be Spencer William Michael Charles. Both sides would be represented. Tea party looked delightful. Family, friends and neighbors are all it takes to make a wonderful get together. Nice weather is frosting on the cake.
The Duke of Earl….be still my heart….what a honey bun! Love the outfit! His girls are adorable. Queen Elizabeth’s dress is my favorite. I love the polka dots! They’re like happy bubbles! The whole tea party looked like a jolly good time! Thanks so much for sharing the pictures and inspiring us all once again. I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the new prince to receive a name! So glad you and your friends helped puuuuuush the little royal and he finally got here! 🙂
He is a honeybun Teresa! 🙂
Jiminy Crickets! What a lot of comments! I’ll never get my work done reading through all of them! But I’ve skipped ahead to put in my “tuppence.” I don’t think they should use Henry – shouldn’t Prince Harry have the honor of passing his name along to HIS son? And William would be a nod to the baby’s father, of course, but then they’d have two King Williams in a row! Arthur is part of Prince Charles’ name, and (as noted) would bring its own magic with it as the future King Arthur. And adding his maternal grandfather’s name somewhere, too, in there would bring the name down to earth — but I don’t think the world needs any more Prince Michaels. So…. how about Prince Arthur Michael Spencer James? They’d probably call him something entirely different than ANY of his given names anyway! (If they named him James Arthur Michael Spencer, they might call him Jams!) Fun to think about anyway!
Susan,
Bless you, but that was the sweetest virtual tea party I’ve ever attended. Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
You were the perfect most well-behaved guest Giovanna. Proud to have you as friend!
When I saw the Little Prince move his sweet hands yesterday I couldn’t help but get emotional. My dear daughter-in-law had a miscarriage a few months back and was heart broken, as was the rest of our family. We just found out she is pregnant again ! I think I’ll take my husband outback tonight, stretch our arms to the sky and make a wish as you and your friends and family did that all will be well. Maybe a tea themed baby shower. Thank you again Susan for reminding us that the birth of this and all babies is a miracle and a happy occasion to celebrate in this sometimes crazy world.
A prayer for you too Betsy, and for your darling new baby now cooking along. Wishing you every good thing.
Susan, Do you ever stop being clever? What a wonderful time you planned. Your tea party looked fantastic. But, where are the English hats on your guests? Whenever there is something going on that’s English, I admire all the hats. I don’t know if you’re “into” guests making party things to wear at your parties, but I was thinking it might be fun to have a tea party & have a table available where your guests could make their own hats. The table could have straw hats available, & there could be feathers, ribbons, sequins, whatever you can think of that could embellish a decorative, commemorative hat. Just a thought.
The news last night was full of how many billions the little prince is worth. Even so, in a way I feel a bit of sorrow for an infant that will be surrounded by paparazzi his entire life, always inspected by the public for every little detail of his very being or routine acts of living. Prying eyes will follow him wherever he goes. I’m saying prayers for him to have a happy life despite being born into wealth, fame, & royalty. I think your circle of prayer was just the right thing. This small, innocent creature will need lots of prayer as he grows up in a royal atmosphere. God be with you sweet babe.
As for the name……I’m thinking Lance would be a good name for the new royal. Iknow that name is much too frivolous, but I’m thinking it’s a short version of Lancelot, which I know they’d never name the baby. On the serious side, I really like Charles Spencer.
Catherine is the best thing that happened to the royals in a long while. She’s serene even when there’s chaos all around her. What wonderful parents she & William will be. They appear to be very real, genuine, sincere, caring young people.
So happy that your tea party turned out so well. Thanks for letting us be a small part of it all. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
LOL, I don’t really feel clever! So yes, I do stop! 🙂 It was too hot to even ask them to wear a hat, some did anyway, like the Duke of Earl. Could have gotten away with some teeny fascinators I guess. Making hats sounds like so much fun!
Sondra, I so agree. May his parents and especially his non-royal grandparents help to give him as normal a childhood and upbringing as he can possibly have. True, he has “royal” blood [“whatever that means” to borrow a phrase from Prince Charles] but he is also the great-grandson of a coal miner. I hope he comes to be every bit as proud of that. God bless the little Prince… :>)
Thanks for sharing your Tea Party with us. It looked like a lovely and fun time was had by all. The weather also co-operated with a beautiful sunny day and blue sky. Blissful!!
I just took another look at your tea party, Susan. I do believe that your girlfriends look like models. I’ll bet they’re as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. I see their shining spirits on their smiling faces.
(Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
They are, you are so right. Beautiful inside and out. They also believe that Loyalty is most important in a friend, and they believe in giving. Like recognizes like. xoxo
Oh my goodness! What a wonderful way to celebrate the birth of a new prince!
And how fun your tea party looked!!
Hello! Love your Royal Baby Tea story! I was surprisingly excited about the birth and wasn’t sure why……….then suddenly remembered that I’m half English! That’s why! Cheers to the new family!
That’ll do it!
Loved seeing the pictures of your tea party. Absolutely brilliant idea! I am convinced that it was the good energy you all sent into the universe that helped the new little prince’s arrival. Looks like you had such fun. Even though I don’t have any grandchildren yet (fingers and toes are getting cramped from being crossed) hopefully some day soon, I would love to win your baby drawing. Maybe this would provide some positive energy for my grandmother-wannabe-wishes! Thanks so much for sharing the tea party with us. It’s always so much fun to see what you’ve been up to. Have a wonderful day! Anne
Cramped toes, LOL! We should join hands with a prayer for a baby for Anne! xoxo
Thanks so much! Any help would be greatly appreciated. I tell my kids it would be nice to have grandchildren while I can still see and have my own teeth! LOL
I hope they’re listening!
I had a friend and coworker from England. Her name was Patsy and she loved her royals. I remember like yesterday the party she had for Diana and Charles’ wedding. Of course we all stayed up through the night to watch the TV, eat and drink tea. Patsy would have been very proud of the way you helped bring Diana’s grandson into this world! May he have a long, happy and healthy life.
Prayers to heaven, hello to Patsy. xoxo
Unfortunately my dear Patsy is in heaven now, too. She was a nurse and a wonderful one at that. She introduced me to high tea and all things British. I sure do miss her.
Susan, How nice that you shared your celebration. Thank you!
God bless,
Rebecca in Arkansas
Hi Susan, I am a newby follower to your blog via bloglovin.I live in UK so dont know if I am eligible for your draw but if I am I would love to be. My new grandbaby is due in October so the goodies would be wonderful. Thank you Susan, I love your blog!
Yes, you are Anne! We are girlfriend-central world-wide around here! 🙂 Nice to see you here!
What a nice day it appears that you had. How lucky you are to be able to share this special day with your friends and family. It looks like you thought of everything!
Enjoyed your blog. I sure everyone at the party had a wonderful time! I would name the royal boy Phillip Charles.
From the play The Foreigner: “I know a good name for the new prince!” “What name?” “Bu-u-u-u-ddy.” “Prince Buddy?” “Yep. Bu-u-u-u-ddy.”
My personal favorite for the prince: George William Michael Charles. (I know Michael isn’t a traditional royal name, but I’m betting the Queen will let Catherine give the baby her father’s name. If not, exchange Philip for Michael.)
And how is Jemima? Jack is making me nervous … 🙂
Once a very long time ago, we had a priest at our church whose name was Father Crow. So when the new Pope was about to announce his name, our dinner-time conversation was, what do you think the name will be? My dad, I think it was him, came up with Pope Crow. The laughter never died, we thought that was just the funniest possible name in the world. Buuuuuudddy is right there next to it as perfect name for prince, and or, his dog. 🙂
Jemima is fine. Jack is now afraid of her!
Ah, Jack probably thinks if he gets too close to Jemima she’ll make that horrible squawk again she made when she broke!
What a lovely tea party!! It looked like a jolly good time 🙂 My guess is George Francis, Francis to honor Kate’s dad and Will’s mum. We are expecting our first grandchild and would love to win your beautiful book and calendar for her!
Congratulations Diana!
What a delightful way to spend Sunday. I loved the closing in a circle of prayer and then the big push! Such fun.
I have been thinking of names for the baby prince. Do you think they would ever pick William Sebastian Chrisitan? Can’t wait to find out
And
I can’t wait for my copy of A Fine Romance! It’s hard to believe it has been a whole year since we took that lovely trip together.
Thank you for such fun Susan
So soon, I feel it getting closer!
Looks like the best party ever! Such fun. I want the new little baby to be named Arthur. Then we will have King Arthur! Isn’t this all just so fun?
Makes life happy-interesting! 🙂
Oh, I absolutely LOVED this tea party!! Thank you so much for sharing!
Yes, it is bittersweet without Diana. She would be ecstatic at this moment!
I send along the very best wishes to the new parents!
You know, this is a lovely giveaway, Susan!
xo Nellie
Seemed fitting after all xoxo
George Alexander Louis, never would have guessed that one.
What a great tea party! It is obvious that you really know how to have fun, and that you have a true joy for life.
Prince George Alexander Louis!!
Loved your party! It was beautiful! I hope the baby will be James.
What a joyful way to celebrate the birth of a baby.
Hip-Hip-Hurray! A baby name….. George Alexander Louis…..!
Oh, I would love to hear that the new royal baby is named James. James Albert would be just perfect…..a warm remembrance of my dear late husband. I would think of him every time news of the royal baby was announced.
Plus Queen Victoria’s wonderful husband Albert. But, not this time apparently. SO many really good names to choose from, they will need to have more children!
just thought you all might like to know that the royal prince now has a name, he will be known as Prince George Alexander Louis Cambridge for now. so his initials will G.A.L. I still like Richard as a name or James!!! how about you all???
Pat – “Richard” would have been a great choice. I’m embarrassed that I didn’t think of it – it was my dad’s name. And even though it’s the name of English kings [so it would have been a traditional choice] it hasn’t been used in quite a while. So it could have been a nice fresh choice at the same time. I wonder if it was considered? Probably. Probably about 2000 names were considered!! Ha ha. :>)
What a lovely royal tea party! Buckingham Palace has nothing on you! My granddaughter, Kaitlyn, will be 6 next month, and my daughter has planned a tea party for all the little girlfriends – they will have pink feather boas, and jewels, tea cups for souvenirs, and will design their own hats! Hopefully Kaitlyn’s new baby brother will arrive on the scene soon after (Jake, in August, to join the Two Jacks and a Joe Club). We will have to try the hands-in-a-circle pushing technique when the time comes! Since I am in Oregon caring for my husband, and they live in Phoenix, I won’t be there for the birth. However, I have a caregiver coming in Sept so I can visit and have the chance to whisper sweet nothings in Baby Jake’s ear. Grandchildren=Love and Pure Joy. Anyway, thanks for letting me crash your tea party. It was brilliant!
Sweet nothings . .. ooo, you are perfect for that Rosanne. xo
Love, Love, Loved “attending” your tea party!! Very Posh!! 🙂 I wasn’t a bit surprised to hear the baby is a boy. I hoped for one all along – – and I would absolutely love it if they named him James! So regal sounding. Adorable parents and very lucky baby to have them for parents.
Thank you so much for the lovely party!
Hugs from Minnesota, Ruthie
P. S. Susan, your talents never cease to amaze me! Thank you for just being YOU!
Thank you for coming to my tea party!
So it is Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge . God Bless him and all newly born babies.
George Alexander Louis…..nice. A shorter name than usual. And I have to say I am glad there isn’t a Charles, Philip, or William in his name…. ( His father carries the “Louis” name) and that was passed on…..I love the Alexander! Wish they would call him that!!!! But it will be George. We can all rest now….the baby and the babies name has arrived. And he is a handsome little guy…I also hope that he takes after his Mom’s side of the family in looks!!!! They are handsome people!
Now, that that is over, I can get back to my regular routine!!! Hope all of you have a pleasant day…….
We should probably start dieting for the next inevitable celebration! 🙂
It’s official! George Alexander Louis! Maybe they’ll call him Geordie!
I wish they would have named the baby Louis or James, but it seems they went with George. Perfectly wonderful, but there have been so many!. Anyway, your tea party looked fantastic, it seems everyone had fun. I have a question about twine, is this some kind of British reference I’m missing?
Twine is 100% American … We always end up having wine at the end of our Tea Parties, so when I invite people I say, Come to Twine! Tea then wine, Twine. Get it? 🙂
Hi Susan,
What a wonderful tea party! What a cute baby as a result. Well I only saw a blanket bundle in her arms, but he must be cute. I will go with James as a name, but whatever they decide it is very exciting. Thank you for making it more exciting.
What a great party!! Sounds like it was most successful. As for the name, I’m sure it will be loooong like his dad’s. How about Lawrence James?
Oh Susan, I loved your grand tea party, I LOVE afternoon tea. I too am awaiting the birth any day now for my FIRST GRANDCHILD! Just like the royal couple in England, our very own “royal couple” don’t know the sex of their soon to be born child. Their due date was July 19th, but my daughter in law was hoping it would be the same day as William and Kate’s. I would LOVE to win this little package of goodies to give to my daughter-in-law. We are on pins and needles waiting by the phone!
Oh Karen, how happy — let us know!
long live Prince George Alexander Louis !!!!!
…your Royal Baby Tea Party was purely charming, by the way !!!… thank you for sharing the joy and good wishes with all of us !!…as always, take care and with love….
I was ready to post a note, and saw Sandra Fox just above this! I took a double take and then I had to stop and think if I already wrote a note! LOL! Not mw, but that’s my name too!
Great job! Love the idea! We have 2 new babies in our family and another one on the way, so know how excited the family of England’s new baby must be!
Have a great day! Always enjoying your posts:-)
Sandra (Sandy) Fox
Wow, two Sandy Foxes! What are the chances of that! Happy to see you here! The more Foxes the better!
I’m rooting for the name James Alexander.
Lovely tea party….felt as if I were right there with all of you.
So happy to hear that Nancy!
He is Named ! He is Named
His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge!!!
George Alexander Louis
bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23443504
also put this on the last blog!
You are magic! The birth of that sweet baby boy was the grand finale to such a spectacular gathering. Thank you for inviting us all, it was lovely!
Loved having you xo
What a wonderful tea party! I think you DID get that baby borned. I think James would be a splendid name for him, too. Did I mention that my dad was born in England? Therefore, I am half English. I remember visiting my grandparents (they lived in New York, came from England) and they had the most wonderful, colorful books about the royal family and the coronation of Queen Elizabeth. I loved reading/looking at them. Fond memories. Thanks for sharing yours.
Have you gone over yet to find your roots?
Oh my word, what a wonderful party!!! I can hardly stand it. It looks like everyone had a splendid time. Babies are the best. The wee one did look like he was waving to all his admirers. I’d love to win those fabulous prizes. Count me in! Thanks to you for including us in all your glorious festivities. Blessings to you all.
Thanks for sharing the party. I love Elizabeth’s dress! I knew somehow that it was a boy AND that they’d name him George- my first born is George! So happy!
Please pick me!
Barbara in Lodi, CA
That red polka dot? Wasn’t that darling!?
Susan, You are brilliant! I have always enjoyed your books and now your blog. The tea party was the BEST….you are genius! Love, mel
LOL, best part is Love, me. xoxo
Dear Susan, we have special news of our own … yesterday’s ultrasound revealed that #3 is a healthy baby BOY! We are thrilled! My current youngest is also a boy and those two will be 17 months apart, how fun will that be for them?! Which leaves my firstborn big girl on her own but maybe she’ll get lucky with #4 🙂 Much love, Susan!
OH Shanon, I love you for sharing your joy right here! How very exciting for your family!!!
The babe Chamberline is here and named! George Alexander. You should probably have another party. It all looks “love rly.”
What a fun time you must have had preparing and enjoying the tea party for the new prince! I know how you felt, running into the house every 5 minutes to check the news. Yesterday I discretley checked the online news while I was at work so that I could see the baby and his parents leave the hospital, and wouldn’t you know it, the minute I got busy doing something else (my work) they came out. Reruns are okay but I wanted to BE there when it happened.
I know how you felt. I was in front of the TV, and frantically called for Joe when I knew they were coming, I didn’t want him to miss it! I’m not so sure he was as excited as me, but he got in here!
Thank you for the fantastic pictures of your party – it looked like great fun. Getting invited to one of your parties must be like winning the lottery – how lucky can your friends be??? We are having a grandson the end of November – this has made me even more impatient. Hugs and thanks!!
Bobbi Jo
A baby is on the way Bobbi Jo! Lucky you! Congratulations . . . xoxo
Here’s to His Royal Highness, Prince George of Cambridge! Hip-hip Hooray!
How absolutely wonderful to hear all about your lovely party and see how you helped push him into the world 🙂 must have been your help that made it happen…
You made us all feel so welcome at the twine! Loved, loved, loved the bunting!
My goodness, can’t say enough about it all.
Thank you once again for inviting us!!!
You are the best guests! So festive and so cute in all your Tea Party outfits! 🙂
Oh i have never been to a Tea Party- but yours looked like the GRANDEST Party…..Love all the decorations- and the hats- and the bunting…..and Susan,
Oh i am soooooooooooooooooooooo jealous of your red and white dishes….how
i love them…..and your tea pots too…….I am just drooling here…..hahaha.
I will have to try to make that cake too- looks yummy……
So happy you had a great Royal Baby Party…..i wonder what the name will be?
thanks so much for bringing a smile to me today!@!@!
If you make the cake, you might as well invite six friends to share it with. You could go to the antique store and find six mismatched tea cups. That’s all you need! ♥
Spencer would be a wonderful way to honor Diana. What a great tea party and such a nice way to celebrate the new arrival. Thank you so much for sharing. You are such an inspiration!
Oh what fun. I love all the hats. Thanks for the chance to win.
Thanks for including US in your celebration! The tablescape looked “FAB”, the decorations were “GEAR” and I bet the food tasted “a bit of alright” (trying to get my 60s Beatle-speak on). In that vein, how about naming the new Prince John Paul George Richard…..! (well, I just saw Paul in concert in Seattle, so he’s kinda on my brain) LOL. What’s our next celebration? Cheers!
LOL, that’s the most creative of all!!! Wouldn’t that be funny! Way gear! Our next celebration? Hmmm, probably when the book comes in? Or when our car pulls out of the driveway for our cross-country trip? Something, that’s for sure. And you’re invited of course!
LOL!!! Bet the Macca concert was great! Would love to see the next England book include a side trip to Liverpool . . . . .
I’m cheating a tad since my husband receives CNN updates on his smart phone: Announcing: Prince George Alexander Louis! Hoping he’ll be known as Prince Alex. A bit contemporary but then again, he has contemporary parents 🙂
Your tea party looked lovely. My older daughter, Clare, who turned 15 in June, decided to have a tea party with her girlfriends. She asked them to dress up, wear a hat if they liked, and they feasted on cucumber sandwiches, tomato-basil sandwiches, fresh fruit and veggies, and cake. Of course, tea and lemonade, too.
I’ve always thought that Tea parties are the grown up version of playing house, or dressup — all the things we did as children. Say Hello to Clare for us — love her beautiful name.
That is the cutest tea party I have ever seen! Thank you so much for letting us be a part of it! We have had lots of babies coming into our family lately and it is very exciting! I have been enchanted by the new baby prince!
Hi Sara, I know the feeling! 🙂 Nice to hear from you.
How exciting it all is! I see that they have just announced the new royal baby’s name: Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge.
And thanks to all that “pushing” help from you and the “royal” guests at your Royal Baby Tea Party. How tealightful everything looked!
My Cucumber Sandwiches are a bit different, but I love both kinds.
CUCUMBER SANDWICH SPREAD
1 large cucumber (Grate and drain on paper towel. Twist towel with hands to get excess water out.)
1 8-ounce package cream cheese
1/2 cup mayonniase
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3 small onions
Tobasco sauce
Garlic salt and seasoned pepper to taste
Combine ingredients. Season to taste.
This recipe was submitted for A Taste of South Carolina Cookbook by Mrs. Robert C. Lake, Jr. (Carolyn) of The Palmetto Cabinet of South Carolina and published in 1983.
I am safely back at our farm now with all my wonderful Susan Branch book collection. And all is well in South Carolina.
Oooo, that looks delicious. Anything with cream cheese looks delicious, but then you throw in the Tobasco sauce — yummy! Thanks so much Sharon .. I understand you Southern Girls know your Tea Party Stuff! xoxo
What a lovely twine party! That last puuusssh must have done it!
I’d like to suggest they come up with a new, original name….my husband
thinks Edwin would be nice, that’s his name, of course.
Pat S.
Cute husband!
I was so happy to attend this most beautiful tea party with the girlfriends… It was perfect! I love being able to travel to Martha’s Vineyard and spend some time with everyone celebrating through my computer screen. ( It is almost as fun as going to England last year with everyone, but nothing really can top that trip.) I appreciated how beautiful the table was under the arbor…and it was especially touching to see the book about Princess Diana in the center to honor her. Well done! 🙂 Susan…I love how you are able to make a celebration out of everything in life….and you share it so freely with everyone. Thank you for that! 🙂
No, I agree, how could we top our trip to England? But it was a fun tea party and very special because so many of you were there!
I love your blogs and look forward to receiving them. I am hoping the baby has the name Spencer included in it somewhere ie: George Spencer or Catherine Spencer etc in recognition and in memory of Will’s mom.
Brilliant!! Job well done Susan and royal guests!! Branch Palace has the magic!! Any leftover cucumber sandwiches…..Mmmmmmm! Cheers!!
Although we made dozens, not a single crumb left. But we have bread, and we have cucumbers!
Oh, Susan, you do throw the loveliest parties! I so enjoyed this post and Willard which finally arrived safely in my mail box. Thank you. Your imagination never fails to amaze me. A name for the royal baby? I was hoping for Diana, but am absolutely thrilled they had a boy. I know whatever they choose will be just the right name. I was on baby watch with all of you and I think your circle of prayer was so thoughtful.
Have a happy rest of Summer!
Nancy (from Bakersfield)
What a nice tea party! So many ideas! It’s been an exciting week–waiting for the new little Prince & now waiting for his name.
Pushhhhhh……you did it! Thrilled for the royal couple but a little twinge of sadness that it wasn’t a princess. Best wishes to Prince George Alexander Louis for a happy life. 🙂
What FUN you all must have had at your Tea Party! I could almost taste the cucumber
sandwiches, lavander polenta cake and Pimm’s cup…..YUMMY. And I’m 110% sure it was the group Pussssshhhhhh that helped pop out the little Prince!
Thanks, as always, for sharing, Girlfriend!
Lady Susan, you are pure genius. How do you think up all the things you do, and all the pictures you create? I am so thankful you have chosen to share your life with the rest of us, your humble and adoring public!!! THANK YOU for sharing your heart! ♥, Lynne
It looks like a two-way street to me!
What a cute party! So excited for the royal couple. He looks like a little dandy.
Thank you for having me for your tea party! I had a wonderful time! So festive waiting on the new baby! Has anyone heard what they named him yet?
Hugs,
Lisa Hay from The Woodlands Texas
What fun ! How nice you had help with all that decorating and food prep.
I’ll have to pour myself a cup of tea and make a plate of party goodies and join in.
Make yourself right at home!
Loved seeing and hearing about your tea party. You are one creative gal! As for the name, I’m with you; love the name James. Anything but George, please!
Uh-Oh! 🙂
We are so blessed to be a part of your charmed life – thank you for ALWAYS bringing us along on your marvelous adventures!
I LOVE having you along. It makes me look at things in even more detail than normal. That’s a great thing to do. Thank you for being my inspiration!
Oh, what a lovely party! 🙂 I keep thinking I’ll have a tea party with (with flavored sweet iced tea instead of hot teas!) so maybe you’ll inspire me. 🙂
I think Prince George would be wonderful! 🙂
I so wish I could have attended your tea party! It looked magical.
You were there too, Susan! Through the magic of the Internet. Plus, although you stuffed yourself, not a calorie has remained! 🙂
What a wonderful party. Happy Birthday, darling baby prince!
What a lovely party, and such distinguished guests! Love your musica.Thank you for sharing all these happy occasions – makes me feel like I live just around the corner. Just heard a bit ago – it’s Prince George!!
I think the little prince should be named George! Lovely party, BTW! Thank you once again for adding some sunshine to my day!
Barbara
Susan…You are the dearest and sweetest Soul! The Joy felt around the world for Prince George…how we all needed this! …and he is completely adorable. How Blessed his parents are.
HI Joan!!! How fun to spot you here! Now get back to packing those boxes:)))
Oh, Susan, you make me laugh-we all gathered hands and so this is how we got the baby born!!! You know how to make things so much fun! I think the new baby will be named George–just googled and just saw that it IS George. Wow, I am good! Congrates and blessings to the royal family!!!
You are good Deborah!
Where was my brain when I thought this was a little tea party with your friends!? Ha! Wow, 60 people…you are truly blessed with such a crowd but then again I think it is they who are blessed to attend such a delightful party with all the special touches! I loved seeing The faces, young, older, men, children! When that precious child arrived I smiled with tears, remembering how I stayed up all night to watch Diana’s wedding. I just know her heart was there with Catherine and William! And didn’t you just love him putting the carseat in a driving them away!
We wanted to have everyone, it’s been too long since we gave a party! Needed to touch base, connect, do something to say thank you for letting us disappear all winter long!
I loved your tea party. I REALLY love your red and white dishes, kinda made me drool. I noticed Jamima Puddle Duck was looking quite well. Should you really trust Jack that close again? I noticed that one of your guests was named Astoria. Years ago I thought I would use that name also. Instead I have Anna Elizabeth and Emily Louise MY precious twin princesses.
Beautiful names!!!
Well I’m SO HONORED! Royal Baby Boy was born on MY Birthday, July 22 and I would love to have a coin too! Your party looks so wonderful, love the pictures and your beautiful posts. xoxo Jacqui
Well, Jacqui, what else would we expect!! Happy Birthday to Youuuu!
I like James or something from her family. I guess they won’t go American trendy with Jason or Caden or Cody or something like that! : )
No, no royalty named Cash or Sean!
Hello Susan and Girlfriends! I have not commented in awhile, due to family and computer issues, but I have been reading along. What wonderful posts! and Willard! Oh! Always makes my week! It’s been a tough year emotionally for me, but I am so glad to finally celebrate something along with the rest of the world! I love when something happy is the top story! And a baby is always so hopeful! The party looked fantastic – I especially loved the covers for the creamers! How cool are those?! I was wondering if someone made them, or they were a find somewhere? What a fun looking, lovely bunch of people! And I’m sure your powerful prayers helped everything along! I know someday I will have a tea party of my own because Susan, your posts always remind me to count my blessings! And for what it’s worth, I like James Phillip Michael Spencer. Have a wonderful week everyone!
So nice to see you here again Juliana … hope things are getting better! The little cover for the creamer was a gift and I’m not sure where it came from. I’ve seen them out there, just can’t think where right now.
What a lovely, lovely party – the royal family themselves could not have done it better!! And what a beautiful baby boy for which to celebrate! I love that his own dad, the Prince of Wales, buckled his car seat into the car and then drove him home. I do hope that they name him Albert and call him Bertie, after his great, great grandfather – I think they need to be sure that the tradition continues. Thank you again for allowing us to live vicariously through you as we continue to enjoy seeing and hearing about England and anxiously await the book!
Yes, I forgot, Bertie!!! How great!
Wish I could just once come to one of your tea parties. It looked like so much fun. Your little baby book & calendar are so sweet, too.
I pretty much thought I saw you here! By the roses? Wasn’t that you Kay?
So much creativity and play-acting and the food!!! What a beautiful party Susan. God Save Baby Prince!
P.S. How do we get the “Love and Scandal” teaspoons ? This is one of my fave fave favorite sayings!
I got that spoon at a store here on the island — there were about 7 of them in a jar, all with different sayings. I went back a few weeks later to get another one for a friend, and they were all gone. Never to be seen again! Just one of those homemade flashes of light that come and go around us all the time!
Prince George Alexander Louis is here!!! I’m so happy that they took my Dad’s name, Louis George, and my nephews name, Alexander, for the baby. I’m never ever going to forget that baby’s name now! I’d love to win Baby Love so I can gift it to the next person in our family to have a baby. How neat that would be. Love, love, loved your tea party. It’s given me ideas for my next girlfriends get together. You are the party princess of the decade girl!! Hugs from NJ
Such fun! I’m smiling like I was actually there as a guest, and I’m about 3,000 miles away. You make magic, Queen Susan! Thank you —
World is getting much smaller — now I can have you at all my parties! A miracle!
Susan, a friend just “introduced me” to your website and I adore it! I have several of your cookbooks but, being me, did not even think to explore your world on the web. The baby tea party was delightful, and being a fellow Anglophile, I felt I was there. Thank you for all your efforts to help with the royal birth – I’m certain that Catherine and William thank you too!
Nice to see you here Connie!
Dear Susan, a girl from my own Heart….no wonder I have been following you for soooo many years. I loved your Tea Party..so many cute touches. Everyone should have worn Hats and dressed Downton Abbeyish….I did, went to my Club Victorian Tea on Sunday..like you had….My 30s Hat, and complete outfit Victorian style, from Head to foot…purse, Old Hankie, was in style, and actually I won the contest. It was fun, especially the Mimosas without the Orange Juice…(love Champagne)…by the way, you also mentioned Downton Abbey, and I get goose bumps when I hear it or mention it…Is it January yet??
Cannot wait…
Thank you for sharing Susan, as always…loved all of it, down to the Tea Cosi.
Looking forward to seeing you later this year at Remnants….
Carol O. from So. Cal./San Pedro with the Red Toile Gravy Bowl that was yours.
xo
Your signature sign-off always makes me laugh out loud! It’s the perfect identifier! 🙂
What a fun party! If 60 people told me to “ppuuuusshhhh!” I would, too! LOL Darling baby gifts! Good luck to everyone — especially the new Mumsie and Popsie and Little George!
What a wonderful tea party to celebrate waiting for the arrival of the new baby!
I enjoyed every minute of it! I think “Prince George” has a wonderful “ring” to it!
Hello Susan!!! Your beautiful Tea Party looks like a great success!!!! The details are amazing!!! You teach us soooooooo much Susan about entertaining…I love looking at all of the photos!!! (I vote for James as the given first name.) I think Princess Diana will be the “midnight-shift babysitter” watching from heaven above and protecting the royal baby through the night! When my two children were infants I always knew their Grandma Marie was watching over them from above :).
I feel that way about my own grandma and great grandma, that they are watching over me. (We babies never really do grow up)
I am sure all of your well wishes traveled across the pond and at just the right moment. HRH Prince George Alexander Louis, a big name for a big boy. Love the sneek peek of your tea party.
Susan you are such a wonderful hostess! Thank you for sharing your party. It looked like it was a beautiful day
Hope and I have been obsessed with the Royal Couple!!! It was so much fun to make hats for their wedding and get up in the middle of the night to watch it live! Now my daughter-in-law has joined the group and we can’t get enough of this new little prince!!! Thanks for sharing your celebration! What a terrific idea! Betsy