It’s a perfect day for a
Guess what I’m doing today (or did I already give it away)? Something fun! Here’s your Sunday morning MUSICA for celebration.♥) I’m meeting a new person by the name of Betsy Bray. She’s a Trustee for the Beatrix Potter Society and she is coming to our own Vineyard Haven Library to give a talk entitled “Beatrix Potter, A Woman Ahead of her Time.” Winter. Clear blue sky. Sunday, 2pm (like a matinee). Library. Beatrix Potter. Who could ask for anything more?
But more is what I’m getting, because Betsy is bringing along her friend Barbara, plus another associate of the Beatrix Potter Society, their North American Liaison Officer, Suzanne Terry. Joe and I are going to the talk, then we’re bringing them home (first class carriage, the Fine Romance Van); Betsy asked if they could have a tour of the Peter Rabbit Room (hope they are not expecting grand, if they blink they will miss it, probably have to take them to top of stairs one at a time due to room being under eaves and tiny), and then tea, in front of the fire on this beautifully blustery day.♥
So this morning, the big decisions are being made: what dishes to use and what to make??? The market opens at 7 am and I will be there. Cake. Must have cake. Right now I’m torn between Orange Cake with Pineapple filling, 
Orange-Lavender Polenta Cake, Pineapple upside-down cake (in vanilla sauce), or perhaps even tiny little Chocolate Eclairs — or Milk Cake??? Yikes! Must narrow this down. Imagine you are there, which one do you want? I’m definitely going to make crunchy cucumber sandwiches. And soft tender little egg salad sandwiches, with tiny bits of minced onion, sweet pickle relish and lots of pepper. And slices of juicy Honey Crisp Apple.
Food is always very important, but the coup de grâce for me is, as always, which linens, which dishes??? Playtime!
Trying to decide between pink or blue dishes . . . think I will go blue. Thinking not formal. Too rainy for formal, must be cozy. Cozy mugs instead of cups and saucers. I’ll take pictures and show you final layout!
For sure we’ll have our special guests join the party, they are always so well mannered, nicely dressed, quiet, and they never make pigs of themselves except of course for the one in the blue dress . . . But I better get going or all of this will be just imaginary!
Have a wonderful day ♥ Downton Abbey tonight! How’d you like the first one? We haven’t hashed it over yet. That’s not like us.
Sending sunshine! XOXO
Hi Susan! I vote for the orange lavender too! Everyone loves it when I make it, thanks to you (and A Fine Romance). Just got Miss Potter from Netflix, but of course that’s for tomorrow, tonight is Downton Night. Hope your tea is splendid 🙂
Jacqui
Tell me how you like Miss Potter, Jacqui.
The picture of that pineapple upside-down cake is sending me to the kitchen. It’s been years since I’ve had one. Luckily there will be quilters tomorrow to help us eat it up! On Downton it looks like lots of trouble ahead with the new maid, Edith’s beau and the lord’s attitude toward Mary. In our paper today is and article about Highclere Castle. Tickets for the spring are already sold out!! My sister and I are going to England in the late summer (This is a Christmas gift from our Dad!!!! Unbelievible!!) and we definitely want to head there. We are both rereading A Fine Romance for ideas. Think we may need 6 weeks– or months. Did you see A.A. Milne’s house? It was privately owned when I went 30 yrs. ago! Pooh is right up there with Peter Rabbit and The Wind in the Willows, to me. Hope it is open! Wish I could be at the library today to hear that talk. I hope you’ll tell us all about it.
Oh, definitely the pineapple upside down cake! Wish I could tour the house through their eyes.
A cake that will be warm or has a warm sauce is my vote!
I get to have a girlfriend dinner tonight and then watch
Downton together (with pink champagne)…nice and cozy.
Sounds delightful and a great idea Lori…ENJOY!!
Orange cake with Pineapple filling gets my vote. It sounds really delicious.
Downton Abbey? Shhhh. I watched it last fall. But I didn’t get to the Christmas Episode in time and poof! it wasn’t available online after 7 days. I’m recording the episodes on PBS and am watching them again! So many beaus for Mary to choose from! I don’t know which one she should pick!
I’ve been looking at English gardens online. I have Amazon Prime and you can watch “Secret Gardens of England” online. I’m taking my time watching it. I watch one showing of a garden then wait and watch another garden later. I’m still not done! Cute and charming. Some are historic and some are newer, personal gardens. Maybe “newer” means early 90’s.
Hmmm. It is in the low 70s here in North Texas. I need to finish getting some bulbs in the ground and plant some pansies. I know pansies are all over this area during the winter, but I can’t help it. They’re one of my favorites. And they smell lovely. And I’m dreaming of roses. Lots and lots of roses.
Can’t wait to see you “tea party”. I’m sure you had a lovely time!
I worked in our yard today, pulling frost bitten leaves off the primrose and dead heading the Iceland poppies. Everything is so colorfully happy now that our coldest weather is behind us. Now if we could just get some much needed rain. I always look forward to seeing our wall of Eden roses bloom. That first bloom is like no other. I think we are ready for spring!
Spring? What kind of crazy Bakersfield talk is that? 🙂
LOL!!
well considering Los Angeles is having 82 degree weather it doesn’t sound so crazy to me. grew up in the San Fernando Valley and I can remember Christmases there warm, not cool and frosty like here or where you are. remember???????
I love tea parties and this one sounds so delightful! Oh how much fun it will be! 🙂
I cant wait to hear what you ended up serving! It sounds like such fun and I am so happy for you and Joe! How wonderful to be able to escort the guests in your wonderful, magical wheels of Romance! They will love it. You probably mentioned this before, and I am sorry if you did….but did your mother have lots of glassware and tableware and pretty things to fix up your table while growing up? It seems that you were born to set a gorgeous table…and that you must have had lots of practice with all of your siblings!? In any case, I hope you have the time of your life today and cant wait to “chat” about it all later!! 🙂 Happy Sunday!
No, no, we had melmac dishes, dixie cups, waxed paper, plastic cups. Eight children in the 1950-60’s in a normal San Fernando Valley house, no sane person would have actual dishes with us around! I played house with a big imagination.
I grew up with three brothers, so we also had a LOT of plastic in our family too! Lol. I think your big imagination gave you a lot of dreams that have come true….and it has given the girlfriends so many magical moments! It’s almost time for DA! Enjoy!
Susan. OH YES MELMAC DISHES… AND BOWLS AND CUPS FROM THE CEREAL BOX in assorted colors My color was the light green…My dear Uncle Dan a Navy Pilot sent my mother beautiful white plates with the Navy emblem on them with a navy blue rim……Oh they were nice.., but with 7 children they did not last long at all…so my dad saved the day and bought MELMAC..we lived in Westchester right by the airport…so it was great to hurry and wash and a clang and a bang did not break them as we rushed out to play. hhhmmm childhood how lucky we were…Love, Susan P.
Yes, they didn’t kill us! My mom gave my brother some family silverware … his kids took it into the yard and dug holes with it. All gone! Oh well!
You always plan such lovely thoughtful things. I so wish I live closer! xo
First off…….I know all the girlfriends will be able to feel your excitement…..what a “jolly good” time you are going to have today! Interesting, learning more about Miss Potter at the library talk, and then the Peter Rabbit room and tea……”Tickety-boo”!
I vote for Pineapple upside-down cake (in vanilla sauce), and tiny little Chocolate Eclairs to go along with the tea and……….Bob’s your uncle!
( I learned those English gems from one of my dearest friends from Great Britain!)
And……………………….
Could you just ever imagine in your wildest dreams where this AFR journey is taking you and Joe?
From the initial idea of your trip to England and writing the journal, it has been like watching fireworks. You know, all the ingredients transported and assembled, the firework carefully constructed, packed with explosive power and imagination…..with all to be revealed when the time was right……many with anticipation waiting for it to be shot into the air…an expectation of dazzling the crowds…….then the lighting of the fuse…….the journey upward, waiting to reach a certain height and boom….a dream of magic….. AFR explodes in thousands of pieces of light……each one beautiful….connected by sparkling, twinkling pieces of inspiration…..one spark feeding the next……and they continue to ignite across the sky, lighting it with wonder…………..such a journey…..and all of us girlfriends get to watch it all happen. Thanks for bringing us along, every week…….I think I can speak for us all…….your journey inspires us and we ouuuuuuu and ahhhhhhhh, watching the dancing light of the fireworks!
Hope you had a fun day!
Deb
How exciting, Susan! You always have such interesting news for us. Can’t wait to see photos! Your guests are going to love you and have such a wonderful time!
What a great way to spend Sunday – with Beatrix Potter and tea! Hope you had a wonderful time.
Have you read “The Country Diary of An Edwardian Lady” by Edith Holden? It is full of her wonderful paintings. Edith wrote it in 1906 when she lived in Olton, Warwickshire. Her diary was discovered seventy years later on a shelf in an English country home. I found our copy when we were cleaning out my husband’s Aunt’s home. I just love it!
I have been wondering if you’ve read this book as well (Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady). I received my copy as a birthday gift many years ago and have always loved it. After I read A Fine Romance, which is so enchanting, I pulled it out again. Lovely!
What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon…wonderful, wonderful…can’t wait to hear about it…pictures included, I hope.
I haven’t had Pineapple upside down cake in forever! I think I will make on in the very near future! I hope you and Joe have had a very cozy weekend.
Have a wonderful tea ! Also please check out Fancy That in Walpole,ma. I took a girlfriend there a couple of weeks ago– I think you will love it.
Susan,
I purchased your new book for my dear English next door neighbor. She was reading another book and said she would start your book after, well she couldn’t wait and she’s almost done and she says it’s like a trip home for her, she’s been sharing the story with her sister who is still in England and her daughter in law is looking to get herself a copy of your wonderful book too, Susan thank you so very much, I’m relocating to another state and it was a perfect remember me when I’m gone gift, love it love it love it.
Susan R
Thank you so much for taking the time to tell me that Susan! Makes my day as you probably know! xo Good luck with your move!
You will be having a splendid Sunday afternoon, dear Susan! I vote for the chocolate eclairs! Never could pass one up–even went for a long walk this morning in preparation for it. It’s a lovely day here in VA. The sun is shining so lovely and looks even brighter after all of our gloomy, rainy days. Can’t wait to hear all the news of your tea. xoxo ♥
Fun! Planning a tea party is almost as much fun as the tea party itself! What a perfect day.
I loved Downton Abbey last week and am looking forward to tonight. I thought Violet was fighting for Mary to have her “share” in DA because had Violet lived in more progressive times you could easily see her being able to run DA single-handedly (Violet would’ve made a great CEO, General etc.). Always loved the relationship of Carson and Mary – he watched her grow up and she’s his favorite – and thought when Mary broke down (finally!) it was with Carson. Of course I was crying too!
Can’t wait to hear/see all about the tea party!
Sounds like a wonderful day… I’ve always admired that blue cup ( mug) is it ones of yours? I have so many of your cups and teapots and use them daily and would love to know more about that one…
I only have one ~ I’m fairly sure it’s part of a children’s tea set. Tiny cup. Nothing on the bottom, no writing or anything.
Well a dark and dank day here as well and it is a lovely Lemon Tea by the fire for now. The talk and guests sound so very interesting. Hope you have had a marvelous time. Chocolate Eclairs and Orange cake sound lovely, will be interested to hear what you chose. Cheerio and looking forward to Downton tonight!
I think blue would be a lovely choice for the dishes, and the pineapple upside down cake in vanilla sauce. Yum yum. Wish I was there.
What a tough decision to choose among those delicious cakes! Whichever it is, I just know it will be yummy and enjoyed by all ! Have a lovely time!
OH Goodie!!! Frivolity!!! I so need that after the Iris blog………………………..for all of us it isn’t just precious Iris but all the pets we have loved and lost, painful. BUT how blessed we were/are to have had the company of furry angels in our lives, if joy cost money we would all be destitute from years of joy, delight and pure d fun!!!
The orange cake with pineapple filling sounds lovely but then I want them all!! What a blissful way to spend a Sunday…………………………BP talk, library, just the smell of a library is magic to me, then the Peter Pan room and tea with Sue!!!! You could sell tickets and we’d all buy a handful. I think I need to go pet my petty pets and make a cuppa………………………………..and read about Hunka Munka.
Can’t wait to read about this little party. Joy to the World! D.
Oh! How exciting! To have guests over for a wonderful tea party!
Look forward to the pictures and all the news about the talk at the libary.
what kind of tea? All of the cakes and sweets sound wonderful can’t you just see little cakes saying pick me pick me ! really it all sounds delightful can’t wait to hear which ones make the cut. Have a great time!
I made a blend of my own, it’s lavender, rose petals and earl grey — SO good.
It’s wonderful!
xoxo In the know! 🙂
By the time you see this, it will be over, so I’ll just say I hope you had a fun and cozy tea party & visit. Looking forward to seeing your table & hearing what you served etc. I trust that Jack was well-behaved? LOL.
He was the life of the party!
Definitely the lavender polenta cake–I made it, too, and it’s FABULOUS!
Have a terrific tea party. I can’t wait to hear about it. If I were there, I would prefer the pineapple upside down cake ! Have fun !
I love, love, love your e-mails and can hardly wait for them to arrive. The one today is great and love the fireplace Tea Party. I have never heard the Tea Song thanks for sending it. It’s very cold here today. I am thinking of having a Tea Party later this afternoon in front of my fireplace with my husband. Your e-mails are so homey and enjoyable for people like me who enjoy their home’s , kitchen’s and cooking. Love the outside of your home, grounds, garden, flowers etc. It always makes me wish I live there too or could spend time there as if it were a Bed And Breakfast Inn. You seem to get so much done it makes me wonder what I am doing wrong. It seems everything you do is interesting, homey and wonderful. PLease keep the e-mails coming
Cookie
I would also love to know the tea song. I am so thrilled for you all to enjoy the lecture at the Library on Sunday . That will be so magical. I hope ur having a great time , love all your posts they make my week. I adore D.A. wonderful series. Thank you for all you do both of you Sue n Joe ur the best . Love to you all. XXX Cheyenne in Henderson Nevada. XXX
Polenta or Pineapple…it’s a toss-up; have a great tea time and must give a full report later. -smile-
Hello Susan,
I opened your blog and with a fit of nostalgia realized that the tea pot and sugar bowl in the picture has the same pattern as cups and saucers that my Nana once had. Alas, I think another relative must have been given them when Nana passed. I have many fond memories of tea with Nana and those cups, thank you for reminding me of them with your jolly pot and sugar bowl. May your tea party today provided as many good memories.
What fun! I vote for the Polenta cake, it sounds so wonderful and it is so unusual. Will look forward to pictures from the party.
Hi Susan,
Too late now…but probably the Milk Cake. Thinking the tea party may be over…I’m sure it was wonderful. What a great treat to have the Beatrix Potter trustee’s in your home!
Susan, you always make my day with your blog. It is rare that you don’t make me laugh and other times…shedding tears…always good to do both. Thanks. The weather here is Northern California is like the movie, “Groundhog Day”. Almost everyday is blue sky and beautiful…but no rain…Take good care, xoxo Joan
I would want the orange cake with pineapple filling! Mmmmmmm. I can’t wait to hear about the party. I loved Downton Abbey, I think maybe Edith might just finally get her chance at love! I sure hope so! Downton Abbey is just a few hours away. Today, I ordered two more of your books. I will now have 5 of them. Wooohooo! Also, I can’t wait for the kitty charm. The black and white color is just purr-fect. Kitty Love!!!!
I just finished reading the Original Snail Mail Willards 1995-2003 last night. I really enjoyed catching up on the past. Oh, I missed so many wonderful products! Next, the Willards on-line, while drinking a cup of White Chocolate Peppermint Tea, is new to me. Love books, kitties, and tea. =)
I agree sipping on White Chocolate Peppermint Tea in pink rose china cups sounds wonderful with perhaps a bite or two of chocolate peppermint bark that I have always been able to find after Christmas on the sale tables. I also love kitties and believe every home should have one or two to play games with or just to hold and cuddle.
Thanks for sharing.
Sweet Sue from Southern California
Hi Susan, I would say Orange cake with Pineapple filling. Perfect with tea. Yes the blue would be lovely on a rainy day. I’m sure the talk will be wonderful and can’t wait to hear about it. They will love your Peter Rabbit room no matter how small it is……….just remember it are charming. Can’t wait for Downton Abbey tonight. It was wonderful last week and I love when it is 2 hours. Now it will be only 1 hour and will fly by. Enjoy the talk! Gail
Good Sunday afternoon Susan and Joe,
Special Guests, Beatrix Potter and a Tea Party! How exciting! How Fun! I can’t think of anything more wonderful than a Sunday afternoon at the Library hearing about her, and then home with those special guests and a Tea Party. I’m sure anything you choose will be great. (I love your pineapple upside down cake..yummm, and my favorite dishes of yours are the pink ones…..but the blue are beautiful too…..what a decision!) I’m looking forward to seeing what you’ve set on the table. But, I’m sure we won’t be disappointed…you always set a wonderful table Susan. We’ll be there hiding behind the curtains enjoying the afternoon with you.
Cheers!
Jan from Northern CA
P.S. I didn’t say how sorry I was to hear about Iris in my last post. (Focused on trying to make you feel better about a little missed day in July….lol.)
What a dear sweet girl that Iris was. I loved seeing her in your posts. It made me feel good knowing she loved your couch, and you didn’t mind….you truly are one of us girls. This is kinda awkward to say….but……when you first get to know a famous author….(yes, you’re famous) you kinda put them up on a pedestal….and you don’t know what to expect…..but as I have gotten to know you in your blog, I find you are so normal….geez, I hope this is coming out ok. You are just one of us, and we appreciate that so much! Anyway it was so sweet of you not to mind Iris being on your couch. I guess the most important thing to remember about our dear animals is that because we loved them soooooooo much, they lived the best lives ever! It helps to make loosing them a little easier. We always have our memories. 🙂
Susan, I’m so glad you’re home from your travels.
Thank you, me too.
Hope you are having a wonderful tea party! What did you make in the end? Did you take pictures? Such fun!
I clicked the link to the BP Society and found out that they are coming to the Berkshire Botanical Gardens in March. There was much squealing and jumping up and down here! (I live in Vermont but that is close.) The guys came to see what was wrong. Just Mom and Beatrix Potter….. Thanks ever so much for putting that link in your post. Yipeeeeeee!
Oh, Downton has hooked me, again. It’s a good thing there were all those months to get over losing Matthew, but I’m with them, after all. 🙂
Hi Susan,
Gosh, when you live on the West Coast you miss all of the early stuff. I hope your tea party went well….how could it not! I’m a pineapple person so would have voted for the upside down pineapple cake. Can’t wait to hear all the news.
Xoxo Pam
I got A Fine Romance for Christmas from my WONDERFUl aunt! I love it ! I haven’t finished reading it yet, I’m savoring it! So I won’t tell you all of what I think till the end ! But I did have to stop by and say that it is sooooo wonderful! Oh see I am already saying to much! Better go before more slips out ! Thank You!
LOL Faith Rose!
Hi Susan! I just love all that you do!!! I was just putting up my 2014 calendar and noticed that July 31st is missing~I’m thinking you already know….i doubt you are having any more printed, but, just in case you are, you can add it before you have any more printed. I remember last year the #4 was missing from November, so, am not sure you aren’t following and old amish tradition of always going to print with at least one error. (As God is the only one that doesn’t make any mistakes!! don’tcha know! 😉
Happy, happy New Year!!! lots of hugs~
Dawn
Oh, I know you’re going to have a wonderful time!! AND, they’ll have an even better time visiting YOU my friend!!! Drink tea with gusto!!
It’s a windy day here….and you can see that if you peek in on the Broncos game in Denver, for sure!!
Stay cozy!
xoxo
Joann
First let me say…I’M IN LOVE WITH YOUR LOVE STORY and your book. OMG I can’t get enough. I sit and read and read and read. I didn’t get it until after Christmas so I’ve just been able to start reading it. My most FAVORITE book EVER!!! I didn’t know how interested I am and how in love I would be with the English countryside and all happenings English!! LOVE LOVE LOVE…have I said that I LOVE it all? :o) Thank you with all my heart for sharing your wonderful story and life. It makes me smile and want to drink some tea…even though I’m not really a tea drinker. WHAT? sorry to say that it kinda dries my mouth out…but reading your book takes some tea drinking so I’m happy to have my mouth dried out for a short time. And it tastes so nice.
Thank you again for all your share and all you do to bring joy to so many girlfriends!
Melissa, Northern California
LOL Melissa, you are so funny. Thank you for EVERY bit of that! 🙂
Melissa, you must try some Magner’s Pear Cider. Can’t read Susan’s book without it. So good.
I am totally going to try the pear cider. I got some for my cousin for Christmas because she loves it so I think I shall try it!!
Please, oh please, tell me where you buy the cider!! I would love to try it. THANKS
Not sure where you live Gloria yet Trader Joe’s here in Southern California has the most delicious pear cider and it is so reasonable priced.
Sweet Sue from Southern Cal
Hi Gloria, here in Toronto we buy pear cider at the liquor store. You should be able to buy it wherever you buy wine/beer. I know you’ll like it.
Me too! Finding “pe-ah cida” very difficult to find – at least here in upstate New York. Thanks.
Well…since Melissa started the true confessions, I will, too. I drink Japanese green tea. Did the blog crash? Sorry. No milk. No sweetners. Just mild gemmai green tea. Grew up with the stuff in the good old San Fernando Valley. Whew…got that off my chest. I kinda felt bogus.
Hope I’m not drummed out of the (esprit de) corp! I so enjoy reading about Susan’s tea parties!!!
♥♥♥
Stop, lol. I keep a box of PG Tips in my tea drawer because that’s ALL my girlfriend Lowely will drink. And I’ve totally forgiven her! We get to have what we want around here!! Shocking about no milk. But Okaaaay. 🙂
😀 A nice chuckle this morning. Love & appreciate you, Susan.
And I’m content with organic White Tea with milk! Although, a nice Chai is a pleasant change from time to time.
I could not find that red, white and black Tea towel in your store…HELP!
Loved, loved loved Downton Abbey last Sunday and looking forward to tonite!
If it’s the one that’s embroidered with “so glad I wasn’t born before tea,” was that it? I made that one, and it’s the only one there is.
I think your tea towel is adorable, and easy enough to replicate! Old timey tea towels are so sweet, and I love having them around the house. As far as your tea party is concerned, no matter what you serve(d), I’m sure it is/was wonderful!
Can’t wait for Downton Abbey tonight and see what the Crawleys are up to. Last week’s episode was a bit slow, I thought, until Mary got out of her doldrums and started living again!
Looking forward to your next installment of text & photos enjoying your Beatrix Potter Tea Party! Until then~ Happy Monday!
What a delightful Sunday morning the two of you have had. The pineapple Upside Down cake has sent me running to your books again. Have made a pineapple upside down cake but never with a vanilla sauce…Sounds oh so delish!! I see that several others including myself have fallen in love with your one and only dish towel on the stove. I am thinking I might try and make one similar…no pattern I guess? I think the blue dishes would be warm and cozy with the weather you are having! A library trip and a talk on Beatrix Potter!?! How much better can one’s day be? I am so looking forward to hearing all about it. How blessed are they to also get to see the Peter Rabbit room in person?? I am thinking that Jack will entertain the others with his rubber band games during this time as each one ascends the stairs!! I love this tea song and had forgotten about it…thank you for the reminder!! Downton Abbey……WOW…we are in for quite a season. I do not have good feelings about this maid or Edith’s new love interest but time will tell!! Hoping for a delightfully dashing yound man to come and sweep Mary off of her feet again!! As always Susan…thank you for a cozy read…..<3
I have absolutely no doubt that Ms. Bray will be completely enchanted with every single moment of her visit…and…I’m so happy that Jemima Puddleduck is completely mended and able to receive such a special guest, after her amazing recovery from her near-death experience several months ago !
Near death!!! saved by the Joey-bell. xoxo
Yes..he’s definately a keeper which he proves over and over and over again ! !
I vote for pineapple upside down cake, although I do like orange cake with a cream filling like a dreamsicle.
Blue and orange are complimentary colors.
I wish I would have seen Downton Abbey from the beginning, because now I am so confused.
It must be a dream come true for you. Like when we wrote to our favorite authors as kids, and actually got a reply!!!
How exciting! What a wonderful treat and how fabulous to be able to visit with you. They won’t be disappointed. (Who could be?!) Please set an extra chair in the corner for the Girlfriends. We promise to dress appropriately, use our best manners, inside voices, and not bounce on the chair with excitement (too much).
This must be a dream come true , trustee’s from Beatrix Potter society coming to your home
for tea. They’re going to love the Peter Rabbit room—-it is very old English, small & cozy.
I’m sure whatever your choosing to serve &what you serve it on will be just right !!!
I have a feeling this is a very special occasion for them as well.
I didn’t think I’d like it as much with Matthew gone but once again the writing is superb.
When the blizzard hit our area last weekend, we seemed to need more tea than usual to keep warm. 🙂
Love your post, you have such a calming way of writing, a nice little tea, visiting with friends by the fire, just a nice visit. Enjoy…..
Susan: the Pineapple Upside Down Cake w/Vanilla Sauce sounds so wonderfully sweet, comforting and delicious… I’d love it with a cup of my Earl Grey. What is the Milk Cake? Is the recipe in one of your books? Will have to pull it out and take another look… They will be enchanted, as we all are, with your Peter Rabbit Room – no matter the size. Can’t wait to see the pictures of the event! My favorite way to spend a winter day – at the Library, then home for hot tea, a cozy chat, and yummy snacks to indulge in!
Sue darling please post the recipe for the Milk Cake as i dont have it . Please love to you all and may God Richly bless you all , esp Iris what a dear, I cried seeing the post , i hate to let go . Have a great week XXX
How lucky these ladies are to be able to see your Peter Rabbit room in person AND have tea with you (and Joe?). Heaven!
I had to laugh at Ricki’s response to my comment about not knowing how to make good English tea. She said those of us here in Texas would probably put ice, lemon and real sugar in it. That is exactly what I have been drinking even while the temp were in the teens. When my MIL would visit from Seattle she would order tea expecting hot tea and be shocked to receive iced tea!
Downton Abbey just over! Oh, my goodness poor Anna. My heart is breaking for her.
Downton Abbey just over here too, I did not know this but was able to see it again at like 3 am on PBS ch. So got to see it twice i am sure in VH u have it come on again about 5 hrs later on the same ch u watched it on , on our ch line up it just said Masterpiece not DA so check it out more of DA makes me happy boy twice in one nite but 3 am was interesting to watch again. Love the series its the first one for me i did not see 1-3 so 4 is my first so have to get them on DVD or some thing so i can understand better , but i have caught on real well . The last show was so socking what he did to Anna i dislike him n want him gone from DA and the new maid she is trouble n is up to some thing. love to you Cheyenne in Henderson , NV
I hope your tea went swimingly! I’m sure it did 🙂 But let me just say, I saved this blog post for AFTER tonight’s Downton, and boy am I glad I did. You’re blog has successfully untied the knot in my chest. Goodness.
p.s. Hi! (this is my first comment on your beautiful blog)
p.p.s. I bought myself your book for Christmas…sheer Joy and BEAUTY! I especially appreciate the little helpful tidbits of information here and there (the music for the drive, the books, and the list of traditional flowers for a country garden). HEAVEN!
p.p.p.s Thank you 😉
Nice to meet you Tatiana … thank you!!!
Sounds like you’ve had a wonderful day, Susan, and to end it with Downton Abbey, well, I don’t see how it could have been any better! I have to admit I was totally shocked at what happened near the end. I can’t even put it into words yet… just horrible! And to think he’s getting away with it, at least for now. I know it will make for even greater drama, but I sure could have done without it.
Sara
I liked Anna’s reasoning for Mrs. Hughes to not tell Mr. Bates about it.
It was smart, because I think he might have gone crazy.
Just horrid, what happened to Anna. Downton Shocked!
Julian isn’t going to be happy unless he gets our hearts beating fast. I’m sure that happened in real life much more than we will ever know. But Anna! Our girl!
And how will this affect her relationship with Mr. Bates, which was so marvelous!?
Can’t be good.
Oh, what fun! I cannot wait to read how it all turned out! I can just feel your happy excitement planning the most wonderful TEA TIME for the ladies of Beatrix Potter!
You and Joe are a very hospitable couple. I’m sure your guests always feel quite spoiled and pampered and very well sated!
I hope you have time to post it all for us tomorrow! Did the ladies ask to move in? LOL!
I’d vote for the upside-down pineapple cake–thanks for the reminder of that delicious cake, I think I’ll surprise my husband with that some supper this week…Well, Downton Abbey’s plot tonight was very complicated with a lot going on at once. The event downstairs with Anna got the same reaction here as Matthew’s death–was this necessary? I had to remind Norm that it is, afterall, a sort of soap opera and “just a show”… it seems like this year, at least in the last two episodes, has a lot of story lines going on at once. I can see where watching it more than once might be helpful, just to keep track of all going on! 🙂
Oh my was so surprised to find a new post today, it’s always so exciting. I didn’t get to comment yet on your last post but I wanted to tell you I made your bean soup in early December and just loved it, it was so flavorful. Shared the pot with my sister and her husband and they loved it too! Another “odd” thing is that this past week I have been trying to decide what “special” cake I wanted for my birthday (next week) and I had it down to a pineapple upside-down or the milk cake!! Then I bring up your blog and you are deciding on the very same thing! But you have a very exciting reason indeed! Real BP people! Have a wonderful time, I know you will. And I will be waiting for the story and pictures. P.S. I vote for the Sticky Toffee Pudding!! I forgot about that one, so now this does change my choices for upcoming B-day lol love to you and Joe and Girl and Jack. (was he a good boy at the tea)? love and xxxxxx’s
Hope it was a wonderful afternoon – can’t wait to hear all about it.
Downton was distressing. Extremely distressing. I’ll say no more in case some haven’t seen episode 2 yet.
It WAS distressing. Something will have to be done. Good storytelling, I’m sure that happened in real life, more often than imaginable, but they just happened to choose someone we really loved.
Very upsetting. Anna is so dear. Wasn’t expecting this at all.
Will be interesting to see how that storyline progresses. Perhaps will help others who have been “there.” They know how to break out hearts on DA, don’t they?!
Susan,
Oh! How exciting! Bet they were excited to be invited to your house too. I vote for the orange cake with pineapple filling; and yes, I agree, blue dishes would be perfect. I know your tea party is now over and whatever you made I’m sure was wonderful. Please let us know how it all went. My husband bought me a children’s tea set for Christmas with adult matching starter sets so I can have a tea party with the grandkids. Can’t wait! Do you have a recipe for the cucumber sandwiches? Sounds like something they might like. Hope you had a great time.
Jan
Cucumber sandwiches are traditional at lots of teaparties, and they are delicious! I have made them heart-shaped, once for a wedding, but for anytime — which your grandchildren would love. You get good solid white bread, not too soft, I use Pepperidge Farm. Either stack the slices and cut off crusts with a serrated knife OR, use a cookie cutter to cut out hearts. Spread thinnest mayonnaise on one side of every piece of bread to cover completely (helps to keep bread from getting soggy from cucumbers). Grind chunky fresh ground pepper over all of one sides of the bread. Lay very thinly sliced cucumbers, overlapping, on the pepper side of the bread. Put tops on, press lightly. If you haven’t made hearts, you can cut them into triangles or fingers. Have fun Jan!
Thanks so much for the info and little details! Sounds delicious and easy enough. I think my little Valentine cutters would work well. As far as the FUN – Oh yes!
Dear Susan,
I picture you reading this at 4:30 in the morning before your day truly begins. Have fun with your guests!
Best Regards,
Barbara (in all too sunny Napa California, I wish it would rain!!!)
You are right, although because Downton Abbey comes on at 5 am on Mondays, the day after it airs, THAT’S what I did first. Getting up so early, my eyes are usually rolling around in my head by 9pm, so this works for me much better!
Oooh, I wish I were there! Just drooling over even the names. Hope you have a wonderful time and I know they will love the Peter Rabbit room. Have fun!
Oh, Beatrix Potter enjoyment!! How fun! I have to share: One day I came across a Peter Rabbit hand towel at my daughter’s house and I just had to have it – it was pretty worn & I believe she was getting rid of it (GOOD GRIEF) and I gave it a home 🙂 And then she still had the Beatrix Potter quilt that I gave my 17 yr old grand-daughter when she was a baby and, yes, you guessed it – I took that back too. Aren’t I something????!!!! I washed the quilt and must put new batting in it because it is like 2 sheets together! But I love it – put it directly on my bed…..silly me!! Happy to hear you are doing fun things even in the cold. Suppose to be in the 80s in Paso Robles all this week. Sounds wonderful – BUT – we need rain, oh, so very much. Look for a report about the visit. (you always have sooo much fun….) XXXXOOOO Pat
Rescue woman!
Oh my, I just finished watching Downton Abbey. I am three hours behind you and the east coast girlfriends, but by now we have all seen it. How do we possibly go to sleep after this episode? We could all try thinking about Peter Rabbit and his gang or maybe counting the little lambs from A Fine Romance.
My favorite scene in tonight’s episode was Lady Mary on her horse looking back at Downton over the expansive green grounds. It reminds me of the feeling I have while reading and re-reading your book…a happy feeling…an I love England feeling.
Your menu for the Beatrix Potter Tea sounded delicious and I imagine your guests agreed.
You have such a wonderful way of making things special for those around you and here on your blog. You are a very dear person.
Audrey, my thought exactly about trying to fall asleep after watching that episode! Won’t give anything away in case some haven’t yet seen it but parts were heart-wrenching. I felt so sad for Isobel Crawley….being a mother, I think I know how she must feel. Nice to see Mary smiling a bit.
Karen, it seems that we aren’t the only ones to have found Downton’s Sunday night episode distressing. I have read many comments here on Susan’s blog. We are not alone.
How exciting! Company! There is nothing like company and tea to lift the spirits on a cold Winter’s Day!! I am like you. I just adore company and getting ready for them, planning what I am going to bake and serve, gathering all the tea cups and dressing the table. I haven’t had a tea party in here since last April when I had one for some delightful young ladies. You can read about that here: http://www.ayearfromoakcottage.org/2013/04/taking-tea.html
It was so much fun. I do so love a spot of tea. Parties just happen when Pots of tea are around! Why do sandwiches taste better when the crusts are cut off and they are cut into flowers and fingers? I guess that is another one of life’s great mysteries! Oh, I would love the pineapple upside down cake myself. But the orange one sounds pretty lush as well. (I am not great at making up my mind so I would probably have both!) I am sure your guests will be thoroughly delighted no matter what! xxoo
Loved reading the Frances books to my kids years ago. Bedtime for Frances, Bread and Jam for Frances. We used to get uncontrollable giggles just before turning the page to Frances brushing her teeth because we thought she looked so funny. Illustrations were charming.
The library event sounded wonderful. I can’t wait to hear all about the tea party :-).
I have fallen behind….I won’t see Downton Abbey until tonight, when I will watch it on my IPad. Yikes. Last week’s episode seemed a little dry, but by all the GF’s comments, things are heating up!
How exciting for you to host the BP trustee!! I’ m sure it was wonderful and I can’t wait for the report. Do we get pictures?
Now I’m hungry for Pineapple Upsidedown Cake! Must try vanilla sauce……….
Chris
Mornin’ Mondayers! Waiting…..for our update on yesterday…patiently….I know you’re busy watching “our” show right now. I’ll knit on my purse (I started 1 1/2 yrs ago, kinda like your scarf!), for awhile to keep my fingers busy! Loved rereading this blog though – the winner, polenta lavender cake? xoxo
Insider info says YES!
Oh blow, I only just saw your post, now I’m too late for tea!! Hope you had a wonderful tea party 🙂
We have leftovers!
How about putting some in one of your cute little boxes and mailing it out to the West Coast? I’ll go put the teakettle on for tea!
Sweet Sue for Southern Cal
Will be right over! 🙂 Your tea towel has inspired me to get some flour sack towels and get creative. I need some new ones and it will be a fun thing to do tomorrow when we are having yet another snowy day…
Leftovers! How could that be?
I plan for it. If I’m going to make this stuff, I want some later! 🙂
I’ll be round!!
When I was very young my mom bought some pastel Tupperware plates for us (four little girls). I loved them, but my mom was not thrilled with them, so they soon disappeared. We also had the multicolored aluminum glasses, and I recently found a replica set that is really fun to use, for the right occasion, of course. Such a great reminder of childhood!
I really love your Peter Rabbit room. Please never apologize for its whimsy or it’s size. I recently came across a blog showing beautiful large, well-proportioned and well-appointed rooms. It was all so perfect! But there was nothing fun, whimsical, or comforting about any of those rooms. For a moment I was really uncomfortable, feeling that I would never get everything so perfect. I realized there was just no soul there. So I quickly moved on to your blog and scrolled through some of your photos, and immediately I was cheerful again.
So good to hear that! We are comfy here. I’m sure it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m not wearing 5 inch stilettos either (:-) anymore!).
Dear Susan 🙂
Do you have for sale the “I’m so glad I wasn’t born before Tea!” tea towel? I just LOVE it!! <3
Thank you for sharing some tea party fun this morning!
….Blessings to you for a fun tea party and Beatrix Potter room tour!
Julie ("Glad I wasn't born before Tea too…") in MO
I made that one, all embroidered and appliqued, I don’t really have them for sale, sorry!
The pattern?….; 0)
Oh so nice! Your talents are endless Susan 🙂 Maybe I can try to make one too….that is, if you do not mind me “borrowing” your quote. It is a wonderful towel 🙂 Thank you for letting me know!
I don’t mind!
Throughly enjoyed coming to your blog for tea today. I just love the Orange-Lavender Polenta Cake. That would be my choice. Now to find some tea that is like your lavender, rose petals, earl grey tea only without the earl grey and with some time of herbal tea blend….any suggestions? I have also been looking and looking for china cups and saucers, tea plates and perhaps a teapot with purple roses……do you have any for sale or know where I could find some? Hope your tea party was a success and maybe we could have a tea party in Beatriz Potter’s and your honor here on the West Coast….maybe somewhere up near San Luis Obispo? Just an idea! Looking forward to your next blog to hear how your tea party went. Have an awesome day!
Sweet Sue from Southern Cal
Can’t think of a more wonderful way to spend a Sunday. Everything you were thinking of to serve sounded wonderful. Glad I didn’t have to make the decision. I would have gone right into a tail spin. But I’m sure that whatever you decide to serve will be absolutely wonderful. Can’t wait to see what you decided. Have fun!
P.S. Please don’t share too much about Downton. I can’t get Masterpiece Theatre here in the williwacks of Maine. I have to wait for the DVD to be released. It’s just about killing me! I miss Mary and the gang.
Is there any chance of bringing back the “I’m so glad I wasn’t born before tea” tea towel? LOVE it!!
Susan,
Can you tell me the pattern on that tea strainer (I think it’s a tea strainer)? It has a green border and a red rose on the handle.
It’s pure lovely!
what fun! You must let us know with pictures how it all went!!!
I feel a bit silly saying this…..I only started watching this season. What was a doing!? I watched a show on Highclere Castle and wanted to see more of it so I watched Downton Abbey. I am completely hooked. I need to watch from the beginning. LOVE it. I couldn’t believe they had my favorite opera star on last night, Kiri Te Kanawa. I saw her live at Hatley Castle in Victoria. It just gets better and better.
GoodMorning Sue and Joe , I cant wait to hear about your Sunday afternoon. I wanted to share Downton Abbey is on again 5 hrs later on the same ch that u viewed DA on. I live in Las Vegas Area and it was on again at 2-3 am cant actually remember which time i think it was at 3 am . ON the line up it just said Masterpiece theatre. So do check that out and i also think it will be on again tonite so going to get my fill. I was shocked at what happened , want him to come to justice. Julian will make it great . Please post the recipe for the Milk Cake since i dont have it. Have a great week and Thank you again for all you do to make our lives happy n well . Love to you n Joe n the babies Kitty Girl n Jack Love Cheyenne , would have loved to have come to the library on Sunday afternoon. XXX hugs to you both n to the kitty babies
Totally unrelated to this blog, but are there several new fabrics in the webstore? I haven’t looked recently and just saw some darling, darling prints! Must order some soon!!!
I think Kellee has been digging around, these are probably the last of what we have, that’s my guess.
Susan,
What a perfect day! Cant’ wait to see the rest of the story as they say…….you have inspired me to want to have a few friends and get out my dishes. I can never decide what to serve, but I so love “playing” with my dishes and setting the table. You/they will enjoy it all as you always make things so special.
After seeing DA on Sun and the documentary I had recorded (Secrets of Highclere) and now reading the book, well lets just say I am on a “natural” high: It is a little scary though because I recently starting looking at buying some more dishes and I think I may have to leave home if I do….:)
Blessings to you…… and thank you as always for sharing everything with us!
Well maybe I will just get out my Peter Rabbit dishes to celebrate your day with your new friends……..So fun even with a blizzard outside! 🙂
How splendid to have a Miss Potter day. I think your tea party sounds delightful. I so wish I could have met you while I was in Arroyo Grande this past summer. Don’t know if we’ll make it this year as we are doing a HUGE remodel job that will probably take all my vacation money. Downton… Season 4 is dis enchanting so far. How about you?
good morning/afternoon Susan and girlfriends. hmmm I would have served the cucumber sandwiches and the egg sandwiches, and along with it I would have served Francis’ light and airy lemon cake…angel food cake with lemon zest and a smidge of lemon juice in it, very lemony and fragrant. and champagne after tea with the cake. buts that me. hope the tea went well. its been raining here, which we need. now the barnyard is a swamp with muck and mud and the ducks have never been happier, they love it when it rains. off to go mix the feed up for the barnyard crowd, we got it yesterday and it was pouring so we put off mixing it, now that I have fed them I need to mix the new batch up. 3 bags of all purpose chicken feed, 1 bag cracked corn and 1 bag hen scratch. 50 pound sacks each!!!! talk to you all later, have a great day today everyone. hugs…… 🙂
Hope your tea party was a smash! I am going to make your lavender polenta for our valentine’s day dinner– I have your specially blended tea on my wish list, so that when it comes in I can order it~~ it sounds delish!
Every Sunday that Downton Abbey comes on my husband and I have a ‘high’ tea during the show in front of the telly, with little sammys, a few cookies and some fruit, and a pot of tea….it’s always a wonderful time and we sit and discuss the show after and enjoy each others perspective on it. I have to say, after this last episode…we are so in shock…why did the writer do that…?? :'(
I vote for Pineapple Up-side-down cake, just the thought of it brings a sweetness to my day. And I love the blue dishes for tea, so perfect. The sun has peeked through the clouds, there are several Titmice, Chickadees, Mourning Doves, and Nuthatches at my feeders enjoying a crunchy lunch, as my tea kettle’s whistle sounds…I’ll be joining you for a cup of tea.
Loving your blog.
I was introduced to your blog by my , then 16 year old daughter, who has now grown into a proper young woman.
She and I both love the spirit of hospitality we find when we come to visit your blog. Elisa, my daughter and our handsome new son in law, David, hosted a lovely dinner for the family last night. It was cozy and full of the warmth and good food that we find on here.
Carrying on lovely traditions!
I have a blog, although it is just a simple blog, it’s mine. I am encouraged to write and create by your beautiful work!
Oh, how wonderful!! They are in for a real treat!! And so blessed to have tea with YOU!!!! xoxo
“…they never make pigs of themselves except of course for the one in the blue dress…” – ROTFL!!!!!
I LOVED the first episode of Season 4 of Downton!! Can hardly wait to see episode 2 tonight! We always watch it a day or two later 🙂
Much love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
We just watched episode 2!! :'(
Oh What FUN!!! I am a fly on the wall listening to EVERYTHING and chuckling as I catch all the fun girlfriend talk and BP gossip updates. Raining outside? No worries it will be nice and cozy inside!!!
xoxo
Georgie fron NJ
♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥ Good Afternoon Sweet Sue This Tea~Party & Your Beatrix Potter Ladies Sounds Beyond Scrumptious! So I Know it was A Truly Sweet Success! 🙂 As For “OUR” Downton Abbey Episode 2 Oh My Goodness! I Could Not Breathe! 🙁 Speechless…Me? Yes! I Wanted To Hug Everyone! 🙂 (Except That Bad Guy!) Whew! Wishing You & Joe A Delightful Monday! Kitty~Kisses To Girl & Jack Too! A Bit of January Pixie~Dust For Everybody! Twirling into This Week’s Full~Moon! xoxo Poof! ♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.♥*¨`*.✫*¨(Make Your Wishes!) 🙂
I received your amazing new book for Christmas! I can honestly say that I’ve never enjoyed a book so much! I kept telling my husband over and over, “This is the best present!” I can’t wait until you go on another trip and take us all with you! I love the blog too and look forward to every new post. Your mentioning The Beatrix Potter Society visit made me think of this Beatrix Potter bracelet I saw on Etsy. It looks like something you would like! I’ve attached the link if you want to look at it!! Keep warm!
Cute! So original. Thank you Amy. We keep talking about “another trip” too!
Hi,
Dishes and linens- two of my favorite things! Can’t wait to see the final results.
But…Downton. I came to a new appreciation of the quality of actors on Downton. The scene with Mrs. Hughes and Anna evoked an empathetic emotional shock that went straight to our hearts. I could feel the pain of both ladies.
Lani
Watched the second episode last night. I hate what happened to Anna and fear what will happen as a result. Lord Gillingham is sure to return as he woos Mary and will bring that awful man along. And what is with Edna? Doesn’t Tom see that she is trouble?
He is vulnerable and she is a spider waiting to pounce. Yuk.
Dear Susan,
Oh to have been a fly on the wall at your Tea Party. Just to think of the immeasurable energy generated by Betsey Bray and friend Barbara, Suzanne Terry, Joe and you- I can only imagine. Please tell us all about this bookmarked- memorable occasion. (There should be a rule that “small” and “cozy” are necessary requirements of a Peter Rabbit Room, don’t you think?)
Can’t imagine it big!
My vote is for pineapple upside down cake. Haven’t had it in years – my granmother made the BEST, in a big orange Le Creuset casserole.
Oh, how I love your Mayflower teapot. I inherited some Mayflower dishes, but the teapot is so sweet!
I gave “One Fine Romance” to each of my two best friends, along with handwritten notes. To say it was a hit would be an understatement. Thank yo again for a wonderful way to share England with friends.
You are so nice to tell me Lynn, thank you!
Hello, Ms. Susan!
I had the pleasure of going over to my mothers house, curling up in her big, foofy armchair, pulling an afgan over my knees and “A Fine Romance” off her bookshelf, and devouring it! It was just what the doctor ordered. It was very stormy in Virginia Beach this weekend, and I was so content to be warm and cozy and reading about the elegant Queen Mary. It’s truly a lovely book, right down to the texture and weight of the pages. (I don’t know if you’re a reader, Susan, but I am. And things like that are important to readers.) Your book was even lovely to hold and touch, as well as read and enjoy!
I am, they’re important to me too, paper, size, ribbon, everything to make a cozy book. Thank you!!
Sounds like a totally divine way to spend the day. All of the cakes sound delish. I’m sure whichever one you chose was splendid and enjoyed very much by your tea guests.
Ooh how exciting! I vote for the pineapple cake. Yummo. And the blue dishes. I cannot wait to hear and see all about it. They will be charmed, I am sure of it. You always have an enchanting way to present your home. Even Jack will be on his toes! Wishing you all the best.
Sounds utterly delightful.