...and I couldn't be more thrilled!...Oh, the excitement of having something of good quality to watch on television again. After Call The Midwife ended a few weeks ago, I had to continue to feed my addiction to good British television so I began watching To The Manor Born from the beginning through to the 2007 25th anniversary special. What a wonderful series that one was and one that I think Tea Society readers and Anglophiles in general would adore!
I am so grateful to PBS for bringing the best in British programming to American audiences who are longing for a bit of escapism from the realities of modern society. We could certainly take a lesson or two from our British friends in this area( and a few others as well). Do we really need yet another singing competition or so-called "Reality Series" where people make complete buffoons of themselves before all the world to see? Perhaps the real tragedy in that is that they are actually
rewarded by society for their lack of manners, morals and decency...Not my cup of tea at all, thank you! ;-)...
Come 9PM this very evening, I will be firmly planted in my chair in the family room, tartan throw wrapped for additional warmth, and a piping hot cup of Russian Caravan tea to indulge( actually, make that a glass of Pinot Noir ;-)...I will be watching in delicious anticipation of what will become of Mr. Bates and Anna. Will the real murderer be revealed? I wonder if Matthew and Lady Mary will finally wed and I truly hope that Thomas and O'Brien will finally get what's coming to them. But most of all, I cannot wait to watch Dame Maggie Smith trade delightfully witty banter with Shirley MacLaine. What a laugh that will certainly be!
Until next time...Enjoy the season three premiere. If you have not yet begun to watch, get thee to Netflix or PBS streaming straight away! You truly are missing out on an addiction which is nothing short of marvelous...:).
Sunday, January 06, 2013
Monday, December 24, 2012
Merry Christmas from the Tea Society
Wishing everyone in the Blogosphere a very blessed and Happy Christmastide!
Most Teafully,
Rebecca
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
December Tea of the Month
The tea for December is one of my favorite teas for winter in general. A couple of years ago when I was visiting Bath for the first time, I tasted a wonderful blend at the Jane Austen Centre. The server in the tea room informed me that it was one of most popular blends there and I quickly discovered why. The blend is called Russian Caravan and is produced through Gillards of Bath. This tea has a magical quality. It transports the drinker to another place and time. This tea is a heavy blend of black teas with the addition of Lapsang Shouchong to create the delicious smokiness. The aroma conjures the imagery of gypsies and Eastern Mystics. My mind drifts to caravans of nomadic tradesmen and their wagons of perfumes, herbs, spices, and teas. It is a fine tea to sip alone with a splash of milk and a cube or two of sugar. It's equally at home with a savory meal.
Image from Google " Russian Caravan"
Monday, November 19, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving!
This is going to be a very busy week but one I have looked forward to for a very long time. I absolutely love Thanksgiving. I love planning the menu and cooking the meal. I thoroughly enjoy the anticipation of selecting a turkey and finding all the key ingredients to make the meal a time honored feast.
I must say that it saddens me to see how this day of gratitude seems to have been delegated to the status of "that pesky day before Black Friday". What does it say about our culture when a day set aside to collectively honor all that each of us has been blessed with, where no monetary gifts are expected or exchanged, has become an inconvenience to those who would rather camp out in a parking lot to save a few dollars on a television or the latest I-product? Sadly, it speaks volumes of what we have become.
Thanksgiving will get its much deserved attention at our house. I will begin the morning prepping the celebratory bird and assembling the plethora of side dishes that will all battle for the much coveted space in the oven. I will watch the Macy's Parade with my daughter and embrace the warmth of harvest time. And when the table is set and the sideboards are filled with dishes of traditional fare, we will sit down together as a family and give thanks to our Creator for how we have been so richly blessed.
Happy Thanksgiving to all in the Blogosphere! May we all have peace and prosperity!
Thursday, November 08, 2012
November Tea Of The Month: Orange and Spice Black
I'm a bit late posting this. It's been such a busy month already and with Thanksgiving getting very close, it's about to get a lot more hectic. I sometimes despair by this approaching frenzy of our own making from Halloween on through Christmas. Sadly, we tend to put so much pressure on ourselves to live up to everyone's expectations that we lose sight of the quietness that can be found when contemplating what it truly means to be thankful. This year, I simply refuse to miss the deeper meaning. In spite of the seasonal social events and obligations that are sure to be approaching for most of us, I fully intend to enjoy the contemplative moments of this season and to stay focused on the message of peace, gratitude and joy.
To help usher in November, the tea I've selected for this month is Orange and Spice Black. This wonderful tea instantly conjures the blissful imagery that is the essence of autumn. The comforts of cinnamon and essence of orange invade the air as they marry and release during their steeping dance. A variety of companies make delightful blends of Orange Spice but I would like to suggest the loose leaf blend offered through a Kentucky Tea Shop called Mon Tea. I am especially partial to this blend because it comes from my home state but more importantly, because it was recently given to me when my good friend, Polly, and her husband, Keith, came for a visit last month. I've asked this question many times before but it begs to be asked once again. Is there anything better than good tea from home and friendship? I think not.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Wishing One And All A Happy and Safe All Hallow's Eve!
(Nevermore by Rebecca Chamberlain)
The Raven
by Edgar Allan Poe
(published 1845)
(published 1845)
Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,
Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,
While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,
As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.
"'Tis some visitor," I muttered, "tapping at my chamber door-
Only this, and nothing more."
Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,
And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.
Eagerly I wished the morrow;- vainly I had sought to borrow
From my books surcease of sorrow- sorrow for the lost Lenore-
For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore-
Nameless here for evermore.
And the silken, sad, uncertain rustling of each purple curtain
Thrilled me- filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;
So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating,
"'Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door-
Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door;-
This it is, and nothing more."
Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
"Sir," said I, "or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you"- here I opened wide the door;-
Darkness there, and nothing more.
Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before;
But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no token,
And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, "Lenore?"
This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, "Lenore!"-
Merely this, and nothing more.
Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,
Soon again I heard a tapping somewhat louder than before.
"Surely," said I, "surely that is something at my window lattice:
Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore-
Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore;-
'Tis the wind and nothing more!"
Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter,
In there stepped a stately Raven of the saintly days of yore;
Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;
But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door-
Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door-
Perched, and sat, and nothing more.
Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,
By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore.
"Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou," I said, "art sure no craven,
Ghastly grim and ancient Raven wandering from the Nightly shore-
Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly,
Though its answer little meaning- little relevancy bore;
For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being
Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door-
Bird or beast upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door,
With such name as "Nevermore."
But the Raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only
That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour.
Nothing further then he uttered- not a feather then he fluttered-
Till I scarcely more than muttered, "Other friends have flown before-
On the morrow he will leave me, as my hopes have flown before."
Then the bird said, "Nevermore."
Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken,
"Doubtless," said I, "what it utters is its only stock and store,
Caught from some unhappy master whom unmerciful Disaster
Followed fast and followed faster till his songs one burden bore-
Till the dirges of his Hope that melancholy burden bore
Of 'Never- nevermore'."
But the Raven still beguiling all my fancy into smiling,
Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird, and bust and door;
Then upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking
Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore-
What this grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt and ominous bird of yore
Meant in croaking "Nevermore."
This I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing
To the fowl whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom's core;
This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining
On the cushion's velvet lining that the lamp-light gloated o'er,
But whose velvet violet lining with the lamp-light gloating o'er,
She shall press, ah, nevermore!
Then methought the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer
Swung by Seraphim whose footfalls tinkled on the tufted floor.
"Wretch," I cried, "thy God hath lent thee- by these angels he hath sent thee
Respite- respite and nepenthe, from thy memories of Lenore!
Quaff, oh quaff this kind nepenthe and forget this lost Lenore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil! -
Whether Tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore,
Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted-
On this home by Horror haunted- tell me truly, I implore-
Is there- is there balm in Gilead?- tell me- tell me, I implore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil!
By that Heaven that bends above us- by that God we both adore-
Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn,
It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels name Lenore-
Clasp a rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore."
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Be that word our sign in parting, bird or fiend," I shrieked, upstarting-
"Get thee back into the tempest and the Night's Plutonian shore!
Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken!
Leave my loneliness unbroken!- quit the bust above my door!
Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting
On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
Shall be lifted- nevermore!
Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,
While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,
As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.
"'Tis some visitor," I muttered, "tapping at my chamber door-
Only this, and nothing more."
Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,
And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.
Eagerly I wished the morrow;- vainly I had sought to borrow
From my books surcease of sorrow- sorrow for the lost Lenore-
For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore-
Nameless here for evermore.
And the silken, sad, uncertain rustling of each purple curtain
Thrilled me- filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;
So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating,
"'Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door-
Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door;-
This it is, and nothing more."
Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
"Sir," said I, "or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you"- here I opened wide the door;-
Darkness there, and nothing more.
Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before;
But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no token,
And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, "Lenore?"
This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, "Lenore!"-
Merely this, and nothing more.
Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,
Soon again I heard a tapping somewhat louder than before.
"Surely," said I, "surely that is something at my window lattice:
Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore-
Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore;-
'Tis the wind and nothing more!"
Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter,
In there stepped a stately Raven of the saintly days of yore;
Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;
But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door-
Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door-
Perched, and sat, and nothing more.
Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,
By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore.
"Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou," I said, "art sure no craven,
Ghastly grim and ancient Raven wandering from the Nightly shore-
Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly,
Though its answer little meaning- little relevancy bore;
For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being
Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door-
Bird or beast upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door,
With such name as "Nevermore."
But the Raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only
That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour.
Nothing further then he uttered- not a feather then he fluttered-
Till I scarcely more than muttered, "Other friends have flown before-
On the morrow he will leave me, as my hopes have flown before."
Then the bird said, "Nevermore."
Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken,
"Doubtless," said I, "what it utters is its only stock and store,
Caught from some unhappy master whom unmerciful Disaster
Followed fast and followed faster till his songs one burden bore-
Till the dirges of his Hope that melancholy burden bore
Of 'Never- nevermore'."
But the Raven still beguiling all my fancy into smiling,
Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird, and bust and door;
Then upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking
Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore-
What this grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt and ominous bird of yore
Meant in croaking "Nevermore."
This I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing
To the fowl whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom's core;
This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining
On the cushion's velvet lining that the lamp-light gloated o'er,
But whose velvet violet lining with the lamp-light gloating o'er,
She shall press, ah, nevermore!
Then methought the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer
Swung by Seraphim whose footfalls tinkled on the tufted floor.
"Wretch," I cried, "thy God hath lent thee- by these angels he hath sent thee
Respite- respite and nepenthe, from thy memories of Lenore!
Quaff, oh quaff this kind nepenthe and forget this lost Lenore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil! -
Whether Tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore,
Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted-
On this home by Horror haunted- tell me truly, I implore-
Is there- is there balm in Gilead?- tell me- tell me, I implore!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil!
By that Heaven that bends above us- by that God we both adore-
Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn,
It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels name Lenore-
Clasp a rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore."
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
"Be that word our sign in parting, bird or fiend," I shrieked, upstarting-
"Get thee back into the tempest and the Night's Plutonian shore!
Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken!
Leave my loneliness unbroken!- quit the bust above my door!
Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!"
Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore."
And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting
On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
Shall be lifted- nevermore!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
The Ball at Willow Manor
It's that time of year again! I am excited to be attending the wonderful ball at Willow Manor. It's been a couple of years since I attended the last one so I am really looking forward to meeting some new bloggers and their illustrious companions.
As for me, I have the honor of attending the grand event this year with the alluring Michael Fassbender.
Since this year is a masquerade event, I will be adorned with this:
I chose this dramatic gown from Dior :
As for me, I have the honor of attending the grand event this year with the alluring Michael Fassbender.
Since this year is a masquerade event, I will be adorned with this:
I chose this dramatic gown from Dior :
This should be a most memorable night with "Frankenstorm" looming up here in the Mid-Atlantic!
On second thought, with this guy as my date for the evening, I'll somehow endure a pesky Nor'Easter...
Time to kick off my shoes
and have another glass of Cabernet Sauvignon...
Monday, October 15, 2012
A poem for autumn
( Mums from my containers)
The Last Chrysanthemum
Why should this flower delay so long
To show its tremulous plumes?
Now is the time of plaintive robin-song,
When flowers are in their tombs.
Through the slow summer, when the sun
Called to each frond and whorl
That all he could for flowers was being done,
Why did it not uncurl?
It must have felt that fervid call
Although it took no heed,
Waking but now, when leaves like corpses fall,
And saps all retrocede.
Too late its beauty, lonely thing,
The season's shine is spent,
Nothing remains for it but shivering
In tempests turbulent.
Had it a reason for delay,
Dreaming in witlessness
That for a bloom so delicately gay
Winter would stay its stress?
- I talk as if the thing were born
With sense to work its mind;
Yet it is but one mask of many worn
By the Great Face behind.
Thomas Hardy
Sunday, October 07, 2012
A Good Book and a Cuppa
On Saturday, as I spent much of the day indoors working on my book, it was one of mild weather and sporadic bursts of warm sunshine. However, it ended rather dramatically with high winds and a drastic drop in temperatures. This made for a perfect melancholy gray Sunday with sprinkles of rain and a high of 58. It really was an ideal day to cozy up with a hot cuppa and a good read.
With that in mind, and given that this is the month of ghosts, ghouls, and things that go bump in the night; I thought it would be fun to share a Tea Society October Book list of some great eerie reads.
1. The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe
This wonderful modern take on the Salem Witch trials is an absolute must read for October: "Salem, Massachusetts, 1681. Fear and suspicion lead a small town to unspeakable acts. Marblehead, Massachusetts, 1991. A young woman is about to discover that she is tied to Salem in ways she never imagined. "A sensational debut novel . . . carries on every page Howe's unique passion, wit, intelligence, and spirit."
2. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
See my review here from a few years ago on this amazingly well written and atmospheric gem.
3. The Hound of The Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This is perhaps my favorite of all the Sherlock Holmes Mystries. Dr. John Watson plays a key role in this classic set against the backdrop of a a manor, murder, and the spectre of a mysterious phantom hound. What more could you ask for?
4. Dracula by Bram Stoker
"A true masterwork of storytelling, Dracula has transcended generation, language, and culture to become one of the most popular novels ever written. It is a quintessential tale of suspense and horror, boasting one of the most terrifying characters ever born in literature: Count Dracula, a tragic, night-dwelling specter who feeds upon the blood of the living, and whose diabolical passions prey upon the innocent, the helpless, and the beautiful. But Dracula also stands as a bleak allegorical saga of an eternally cursed being whose nocturnal atrocities reflect the dark underside of the supremely moralistic age in which it was originally written -- and the corrupt desires that continue to plague the modern human condition. " ( This wonderful description was provided by Amazon)
5. Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
Gothic literature at its most sublime. The Barnes and Noble review below captures the essence of this timeless novel.
"Last night I dreamt I Went To Manderley Again." So the second Mrs. Maxim de Winter remembered the chilling events that led her down the turning drive past the beaches, white and naked, to the isolated gray stone mansion on the windswept Cornish coast. With a husband she barely knew, the young bride arrived at this immense estate, only to be inexorably drawn into the life of the first Mrs. de Winter, the beautiful Rebecca, dead but never forgotten...her suite of rooms never touched, her clothes ready to be worn, her servant — the sinister Mrs. Danvers — still loyal. And as an eerie presentiment of evil tightened around her heart, the second Mrs. de Winter began her search for the real fate of Rebecca...for the secrets of Manderley."
6. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
This book, along with Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, is the reason for my lifelong fascination with Yorkshire. The novel begins with the tormented childhood of the orphaned Jane. It takes the reader through her early life of abuse and cruetly. As she grows up, Jane eventually takes the postion of governess to the ward of Mr. Edward Rochester, a "Byronic Hero" and master of a remote estate on the moors called Thornfield Manor. While at her new position, Jane uncovers her employer's dark history and a devastating secret in the attic. This novel has a permanant space on my home library shelf.
7. The Woman In Black by Susan Hill
I did see the recent film with Daniel Radcliffe last year and I thought it was very well done and quite eerie. However, I am so glad that I read the book first. The book is frightening and there are of course some marked differences between it and the film. Hill's masterfully written ghost story is one of the few books that left me sleeping with the bedroom light on.
"Arthur Kipps is a man touched by tragedy, as we learn, following his storming away in a temper from Victorian festivities, complete with ghost stories, on a snowy Christmas Eve. He is fully aware that stories of ghosts may be told in frivolous fashion, but that ghosts themselves -- real ghosts -- rarely manifest in such a mood. Ashamed of his bad behavior and wishing to explain himself and make it up to his wife, he begins to write the story of his own horrific experience following the death of Mrs. Drablow in the remote village of Crythin Gifford. A young attorney, he travels up North to represent his firm at her funeral and clear up outstanding legal affairs. The reader follows Kipps casually but is soon caught up in a fearful exploration of human despair and its consequence." "( Editorial Review- Amazon)
8. The Picture of Dorain Gray by Oscar Wilde
Vanity. Yes, all is vanity...
"A lush, cautionary tale of a life of vileness and deception or a loving portrait
of the aesthetic impulse run rampant? Why not both? After Basil Hallward paints
a beautiful, young man's portrait, his subject's frivolous wish that the picture
change and he remain the same comes true. Dorian Gray's picture grows aged and
corrupt while he continues to appear fresh and innocent."( From Amazon)
9. The Fall Of The House Of Usher by Edgar Allan Poe
DURING the whole of a dull, dark, and soundless day in the autumn of the year, when the clouds hung oppressively low in the heavens, I had been passing alone, on horseback, through a singularly dreary tract of country ; and at length found myself, as the shades of the evening drew on, within view of the melancholy House of Usher. I know not how it was - but, with the first glimpse of the building, a sense of insufferable gloom pervaded my spirit.
Need I say more?
10. The Woman In White by Wilkie Collins
“There, in the middle of the broad, bright high-road—there, as if it had that
moment sprung out of the earth or dropped from the heaven—stood the figure of a
solitary Woman, dressed from head to foot in white garments.”
"Thus, young art tutor Walter Hartright first meets the mysterious woman in white in what soon became one of the most popular novels of the nineteenth century. Secrets, mistaken identities, surprise revelations, amnesia, locked rooms and locked asylums, and an unorthodox villain made this mystery thriller an instant success when it first appeared in 1860, and it has continued to enthrall readers ever since. From the hero’s foreboding before his arrival at Limmeridge House to the nefarious plot concerning the beautiful Laura, the breathtaking tension of Collins’s narrative created a new literary genre of suspense fiction, which profoundly shaped the course of English popular writing." ( from Amazon)
Monday, October 01, 2012
Fall fashion And A Tea Of The Month
With the temperatures taking a dip, it's time for sweaters, scarves and boots to replace linen capri pants, summer dresses, and sandals. It's no secret that I love fall and winter clothing and relish this changing of seasonal attire. I delight in adding new pieces to tried and true standbys in the back of the wardrobe. As a matter of fact, I got a jump on this a couple of weeks ago with some new brown Equestrian boots.
As I continue to look for key pieces and missing elements, I think of the master of fall fashion, Ralph Lauren. Does anyone do it better? Just take a look at the new fall line below. :)
There's a certain undeniable magic in the air when October rolls around. Being a child of Autumn, I marvel at the rapidly changing hues from deep green to russet, gold, and crimson. Look how perfectly these colors compliment the Ralph Lauren collection above. Marvelous!
Beginning with the month of October, and as a welcome of sorts to the birth of this next season, the Tea Society blog will feature a Tea of the month. This month's featured tea is one that is perfect for fall because of it's comforting taste and hypnotic aroma of heavenly bergamot. I'm speaking of none other than the favorite tea of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Earl Grey, of course. However, I am not recommending just any brew of Earl Grey. The one that I adore is blended by Twinings. I have sampled countless loose leaf and bag varieties of Earl Grey over the years and though I have tasted some very fine blends, I always seem to come back to Twinings. I suppose you could say that Twinings is to Earl Grey what Ralph Lauren is to fall fashion...Hum...That just might be my new mantra...
I'll leave you with this suggestion: For this October, add a new scarf to your fall wardrobe, and make sure your pantries and cupboards are stocked with loose leaf and tea bag varieties of Earl Grey. Cheers!
As I continue to look for key pieces and missing elements, I think of the master of fall fashion, Ralph Lauren. Does anyone do it better? Just take a look at the new fall line below. :)
There's a certain undeniable magic in the air when October rolls around. Being a child of Autumn, I marvel at the rapidly changing hues from deep green to russet, gold, and crimson. Look how perfectly these colors compliment the Ralph Lauren collection above. Marvelous!
Beginning with the month of October, and as a welcome of sorts to the birth of this next season, the Tea Society blog will feature a Tea of the month. This month's featured tea is one that is perfect for fall because of it's comforting taste and hypnotic aroma of heavenly bergamot. I'm speaking of none other than the favorite tea of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Earl Grey, of course. However, I am not recommending just any brew of Earl Grey. The one that I adore is blended by Twinings. I have sampled countless loose leaf and bag varieties of Earl Grey over the years and though I have tasted some very fine blends, I always seem to come back to Twinings. I suppose you could say that Twinings is to Earl Grey what Ralph Lauren is to fall fashion...Hum...That just might be my new mantra...
I'll leave you with this suggestion: For this October, add a new scarf to your fall wardrobe, and make sure your pantries and cupboards are stocked with loose leaf and tea bag varieties of Earl Grey. Cheers!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
The Tea Society Blog Returns!
It is often said that our circumstances are what we make of them and that we can choose to be happy or not. I believe this, to a certain degree. Yet, I also know that when we are connected so deeply to some places and to certain people that when they are no longer there, we truly grieve their absence. It's very much a spiritual connection. To have that removed or distanced from our lives makes it rather difficult to choose to ignore the loss and put on a happy front.
While pondering all of this, I came to the rather obvious realization that when we are fortunate enough to be able to return to a place that makes us feel content, happy, and peaceful, then we should certainly celebrate that and do so, wholeheartedly! For me, that place, figuratively speaking, is this little corner of my own "virtual reality", right here at the Tea Society Blog. I have greatly missed sharing bits and pieces of Tea adventures along with the joy of connecting with kindred spirits across this vast globe. I honestly did not realize what a huge part of my life this blogging adventure had become, and what a chasm it left within me when I stopped frequenting this realm. This is my sanctuary, my place of bliss. This is a refuge of tranquility and contentment amid the sometimes stressful alternative known as everyday life. It is time to joyfully return to that place where I can escape and delve into the comforts of all things Tea-related and to marvel and relish those charming extra accompaniments to tea-culture. I hope my former blog followers will return for a cuppa with me and for many more tea-filled days of bliss. How I have missed you.
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
A NEW HOME IN THE BLOGOSPHERE
Hello dear friends of the Tea Society Blog. First off, I want to thank those who have been so kind as to leave their comments and farewells here. I also want to thank you for the infinite pots of "virtual tea" that we've shared over the years. You have been such wonderful kindred spirits and I have treasured getting to know so many of you more than you will ever know.
With all that said, this is certainly not the end! I have finally returned to introduce my new home in the Blogosphere. I have published a new art blog called Flora Symbolica. That's just a much more romantic title for The Language of Flowers. The title was inspired by a wonderful book that I recently purchased by the same name. It was written by Debra N. Mancoff and is all about the use of Flowers in Pre-Raphaelite art.
If you have an interest in Botanical art, gardening and beautiful gardens, you will no doubt find something of interest for you here. And of course, there will always be a fresh kettle on while you look over the contents. Truly, My hope is that the new blog will be a much more personal, as well as professional, journey for me. I would be delighted if my bloggy friends would join me in this adventure as I embark on life as a Botanical Illustrator.
Most Teafully,
Rebecca
Hello dear friends of the Tea Society Blog. First off, I want to thank those who have been so kind as to leave their comments and farewells here. I also want to thank you for the infinite pots of "virtual tea" that we've shared over the years. You have been such wonderful kindred spirits and I have treasured getting to know so many of you more than you will ever know.
With all that said, this is certainly not the end! I have finally returned to introduce my new home in the Blogosphere. I have published a new art blog called Flora Symbolica. That's just a much more romantic title for The Language of Flowers. The title was inspired by a wonderful book that I recently purchased by the same name. It was written by Debra N. Mancoff and is all about the use of Flowers in Pre-Raphaelite art.
If you have an interest in Botanical art, gardening and beautiful gardens, you will no doubt find something of interest for you here. And of course, there will always be a fresh kettle on while you look over the contents. Truly, My hope is that the new blog will be a much more personal, as well as professional, journey for me. I would be delighted if my bloggy friends would join me in this adventure as I embark on life as a Botanical Illustrator.
Most Teafully,
Rebecca
Saturday, May 28, 2011
CLOSING CHAPTERS AND MOVING ON
I hope each of you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend. It's been beautiful here in Central Kentucky and promises to be hot and sunny. I must confess, though I am a child of autumn, I am thrilled to have some sunshine and warmth after such a cold and rainy spring and later winter..We're actually expecting a high of 90 on Monday. As usual, we skip spring and go straight into summer.
Life continues to evolve and offers many changes. Some are very good, I might add, and others, only time will tell. With that said, I have decided that this will be the last post for the Ladies Historical Tea Society Blog. I will leave the blog up for the duration of the summer, if nothing else, for the music that so many of you have told me that you love. For myself, I intend to spend some much needed time with my family as well as in the art studio and in my beloved garden. The latter two mentioned have been sorely neglected and I must redirect my attention, specifically, to my art and keep it focused there. I want to take this time to extend many blessings to the wonderful followers and friends that I've made through the blogosphere. I hope you have a wonderful summer and I sincerely want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your support and kindness throughout the last several years. I have made some very dear friends, and I cherish each of you more than most of you will ever know.
Most Teafully,
Rebecca
I hope each of you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend. It's been beautiful here in Central Kentucky and promises to be hot and sunny. I must confess, though I am a child of autumn, I am thrilled to have some sunshine and warmth after such a cold and rainy spring and later winter..We're actually expecting a high of 90 on Monday. As usual, we skip spring and go straight into summer.
Life continues to evolve and offers many changes. Some are very good, I might add, and others, only time will tell. With that said, I have decided that this will be the last post for the Ladies Historical Tea Society Blog. I will leave the blog up for the duration of the summer, if nothing else, for the music that so many of you have told me that you love. For myself, I intend to spend some much needed time with my family as well as in the art studio and in my beloved garden. The latter two mentioned have been sorely neglected and I must redirect my attention, specifically, to my art and keep it focused there. I want to take this time to extend many blessings to the wonderful followers and friends that I've made through the blogosphere. I hope you have a wonderful summer and I sincerely want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your support and kindness throughout the last several years. I have made some very dear friends, and I cherish each of you more than most of you will ever know.
Most Teafully,
Rebecca
Sunday, March 27, 2011
TEA IN ENGLAND (SPRING IN HISTORIC BATH PART 1)
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit England for 8 days. This was my first trip to the 'Sceptered Isle" and to say it was perhaps the most spectacular destination I’ve ever visited would be a vast understatement. For, as an unapologetic Anglophile, being there at least once in your lifetime is as necessary to existence as the water you drink or the air that you breathe. To take advantage of any trip there is a must, no matter how long or short the duration.
After spending a few exciting days in London, it was destination, Bath, where I was able to visit a wonderful tea room which is what this post will concentrate on. Of course, Bath is known for its Roman influence and exquisite Georgian architecture but it should also be noted that this city has many wonderful tearooms and specialty shops. It seems that I stumbled upon one at every turn. I only wish I had several more days to explore this breathtaking city and partake of each and every one. Hum…I’m thinking a tea room tour of Great Britain must be in the future works. Anyone care to join me?
The three most significant activities that were enjoyed by the privileged in Bath during the Regency era, in which it’s so well known, were dancing, gambling and tea. It is also said that if one spent any less than 6 weeks there, you would have certainly held no social significance whatsoever. To do so would have been considered bad form, indeed. After all, Bath, during Jane’s time was second only to London in prestige and fashion- ability, though that would change some years later when it would become much less chic.
Upon first arriving and embarking on the adventure of navigating the maze of one way streets in the city, our first destination was the Jane Austen Centre. The centre offers a museum of period clothing and displays which have been designed to give a glimpse into what life would have been like during the Regency era. It also houses a nice gift shop with everything Jane-related.
The tour at the centre was very informative. It was filled with information about the Austen family especially in reference to the time they spent there. It is often said that Jane grew weary of Bath, but the guide at the centre seemed to feel that she did in fact have a fondness for the city, at least at certain times in her life. Of course, Jane devotees will be quick to point out that Bath was the setting of two of Austen’s beloved novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, the former being my favorite of the two.
Now, for the tea experience: I had researched the Tea Room at the centre a bit before my trip so had great expectations. For instance, it is housed in a Georgian townhouse on historic Gay Street and adorned with décor faithful to the era. This certainly makes for perfect ambiance. But of more importance, this particular tea room, known as The Regency Tea Room, has been granted the Tea Guild’s esteemed “Award of excellence” and “Tea rooms with distinction” award. One sip of the perfectly brewed selections offered here and it’s easy to see why. I opted to sample two blends from their offering of 15. My first was the Jane Austen Blend; a mixture of delectable China black teas, in keeping with what was more easily available during the Regency period. The second was Russian Caravan. The latter is a blend of China blacks with a smokier flavor- Very satisfying. Of course, I came away with loose leaf bags of both, along with a charming silver tea strainer. As for tea fare, I chose “Tea with Mr. Darcy.” I ask you, how could one resist ordering that when there is a charming portrait of Colin Firth, in the role that made him famous, holding a position of honor just above the mantle? And what exactly was included with this “Tea”? It consisted of a two tiered offering of cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches, fresh baked scones (one plain, one with currants) with Dorset clotted cream, strawberry jam, lemon curd, apple tartlets, delectable meringue shells with fruity filling, and cream stuffed buttery cookies-topped with a drizzle of chocolate.
And what did all this result in? Well, an afternoon of absolute bliss, of course!
Now, make sure to check back soon for “Part 2” of Bath to see the rest of what this exquisite English city is known for.
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit England for 8 days. This was my first trip to the 'Sceptered Isle" and to say it was perhaps the most spectacular destination I’ve ever visited would be a vast understatement. For, as an unapologetic Anglophile, being there at least once in your lifetime is as necessary to existence as the water you drink or the air that you breathe. To take advantage of any trip there is a must, no matter how long or short the duration.
After spending a few exciting days in London, it was destination, Bath, where I was able to visit a wonderful tea room which is what this post will concentrate on. Of course, Bath is known for its Roman influence and exquisite Georgian architecture but it should also be noted that this city has many wonderful tearooms and specialty shops. It seems that I stumbled upon one at every turn. I only wish I had several more days to explore this breathtaking city and partake of each and every one. Hum…I’m thinking a tea room tour of Great Britain must be in the future works. Anyone care to join me?
The three most significant activities that were enjoyed by the privileged in Bath during the Regency era, in which it’s so well known, were dancing, gambling and tea. It is also said that if one spent any less than 6 weeks there, you would have certainly held no social significance whatsoever. To do so would have been considered bad form, indeed. After all, Bath, during Jane’s time was second only to London in prestige and fashion- ability, though that would change some years later when it would become much less chic.
Upon first arriving and embarking on the adventure of navigating the maze of one way streets in the city, our first destination was the Jane Austen Centre. The centre offers a museum of period clothing and displays which have been designed to give a glimpse into what life would have been like during the Regency era. It also houses a nice gift shop with everything Jane-related.
The tour at the centre was very informative. It was filled with information about the Austen family especially in reference to the time they spent there. It is often said that Jane grew weary of Bath, but the guide at the centre seemed to feel that she did in fact have a fondness for the city, at least at certain times in her life. Of course, Jane devotees will be quick to point out that Bath was the setting of two of Austen’s beloved novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, the former being my favorite of the two.
Now, for the tea experience: I had researched the Tea Room at the centre a bit before my trip so had great expectations. For instance, it is housed in a Georgian townhouse on historic Gay Street and adorned with décor faithful to the era. This certainly makes for perfect ambiance. But of more importance, this particular tea room, known as The Regency Tea Room, has been granted the Tea Guild’s esteemed “Award of excellence” and “Tea rooms with distinction” award. One sip of the perfectly brewed selections offered here and it’s easy to see why. I opted to sample two blends from their offering of 15. My first was the Jane Austen Blend; a mixture of delectable China black teas, in keeping with what was more easily available during the Regency period. The second was Russian Caravan. The latter is a blend of China blacks with a smokier flavor- Very satisfying. Of course, I came away with loose leaf bags of both, along with a charming silver tea strainer. As for tea fare, I chose “Tea with Mr. Darcy.” I ask you, how could one resist ordering that when there is a charming portrait of Colin Firth, in the role that made him famous, holding a position of honor just above the mantle? And what exactly was included with this “Tea”? It consisted of a two tiered offering of cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches, fresh baked scones (one plain, one with currants) with Dorset clotted cream, strawberry jam, lemon curd, apple tartlets, delectable meringue shells with fruity filling, and cream stuffed buttery cookies-topped with a drizzle of chocolate.
And what did all this result in? Well, an afternoon of absolute bliss, of course!
Now, make sure to check back soon for “Part 2” of Bath to see the rest of what this exquisite English city is known for.
Monday, February 28, 2011
AND THE OSCAR GOES TO...
Congratulations to a Tea Society favorite, Colin Firth, on his Oscar win for best actor in The King's Speech. This wonderful film also captured the grand prize for best film, best director, and best original screenplay. Well deserved, indeed.
Congratulations to a Tea Society favorite, Colin Firth, on his Oscar win for best actor in The King's Speech. This wonderful film also captured the grand prize for best film, best director, and best original screenplay. Well deserved, indeed.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
THE KING'S SPEECH
This Sunday I finally had the opportunity to see The King’s Speech. First of all I absolutely adore Colin Firth in nearly every film he graces but this particular movie left me speechless, pardon the pun. Firth’s amazing portrayal of King George VI, father of Queen Elizabeth and husband of the Queen Mother, is simply mesmerizing. His Golden Globe win is certainly well deserved. I truly hope that Firth takes home the Oscar for Best Actor this year. To say he is well deserving of such accolades would be a vast understatement.
From the opening scene where the terrified Prince Albert, Duke of York, is standing before a crowd at the closing of the Empire Exhibition in 1925, Colin Firth casts his spell and the movie audience instantly feels sympathy for this courageous stammering man who would soon be King. From that moment on, you know that you are about to form an intimate relationship with this character.
Geoffrey Rush portrays Lionel Logue, “Bertie’s” (the family nickname for Albert) Australian speech coach. He delivers an amazing performance and never disappoints with his ability to make you truly believe that he is in fact the person he portrays. Interestingly, I read that some of the most memorable lines in the movie were actually taken from Lionel Logue’s personal notes on the methods he used in his therapy sessions. These notes were discovered 9 weeks before filming began. Therefore, to maintain accuracy, the script was reworked to reflect what was in the notes.
Oh, and I mustn’t fail to mention the spectacular hats in this film. Helena Bonham Carter certainly wears them well. And yes, there are a few Tea scenes to enjoy, along with some featuring those adorable Corgi’s.
I must say that this film is about much more than a “Royal” over-coming a speech disability, it is about believing in yourself and the ability to rise above pre-conceived low expectations to achieve greatness. It is about trusting and discovering the importance of having at least one person in your life that helps you discover the true power of greatness within you. I think the King was indeed fortunate that he had two such people in his life, his devoted wife, Elizabeth, and his unconventional friend and therapist, Lionel.
This Sunday I finally had the opportunity to see The King’s Speech. First of all I absolutely adore Colin Firth in nearly every film he graces but this particular movie left me speechless, pardon the pun. Firth’s amazing portrayal of King George VI, father of Queen Elizabeth and husband of the Queen Mother, is simply mesmerizing. His Golden Globe win is certainly well deserved. I truly hope that Firth takes home the Oscar for Best Actor this year. To say he is well deserving of such accolades would be a vast understatement.
From the opening scene where the terrified Prince Albert, Duke of York, is standing before a crowd at the closing of the Empire Exhibition in 1925, Colin Firth casts his spell and the movie audience instantly feels sympathy for this courageous stammering man who would soon be King. From that moment on, you know that you are about to form an intimate relationship with this character.
Geoffrey Rush portrays Lionel Logue, “Bertie’s” (the family nickname for Albert) Australian speech coach. He delivers an amazing performance and never disappoints with his ability to make you truly believe that he is in fact the person he portrays. Interestingly, I read that some of the most memorable lines in the movie were actually taken from Lionel Logue’s personal notes on the methods he used in his therapy sessions. These notes were discovered 9 weeks before filming began. Therefore, to maintain accuracy, the script was reworked to reflect what was in the notes.
Oh, and I mustn’t fail to mention the spectacular hats in this film. Helena Bonham Carter certainly wears them well. And yes, there are a few Tea scenes to enjoy, along with some featuring those adorable Corgi’s.
I must say that this film is about much more than a “Royal” over-coming a speech disability, it is about believing in yourself and the ability to rise above pre-conceived low expectations to achieve greatness. It is about trusting and discovering the importance of having at least one person in your life that helps you discover the true power of greatness within you. I think the King was indeed fortunate that he had two such people in his life, his devoted wife, Elizabeth, and his unconventional friend and therapist, Lionel.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
TEA SOCIETY CHRISTMAS TEA
( Darleen opened her lovely home to the Tea Society for our Tea Cup exchange)
Sunday was certainly the day for special tea events. Not only did I attend Mr. Toast’s wonderful Christmas Tea in Scotland but I also found myself at our Tea Society Christmas Tea in Lexington, Kentucky. Wow…Two teas within a 24 hour period on two different continents..Hum…isn’t that some sort of record? ;)
Of course everyone in the blogosphere is still abuzz over our tea adventure at Torosay castle on the Isle of Mull but we also had a delightful late afternoon tea a bit closer to home and on a much smaller scale. Every year we have an annual member’s only tea cup exchange for Christmas. It was truly a wonderful relaxing afternoon spent in laughter and wonderful conversation among cherished friends and over the greatest drink on the planet, tea of course. And best of all, you always end up bringing home a special tea cup! I will post a glimpse at the Spode tea cups that I received in a future post. Thank you, Natalie!
(A glimpse at some of the delicious tea fare we enjoyed)
(The ladies deep in conversation)
(Darleen's amazing glass ornament filled tree)
(One of members, Carolyn F., had to leave early to attend an advent service but those of use remaining were: Seated( Darleen, our hostess, Natalie- wearing her Edwardian inspired creation- standing, Polly, Rebecca( me)in the center and Caroline B.>)
Our menu this year was: Fresh baked cranberry scones with lemon curd( Yes they were warm and delicious!), artichoke and roasted red pepper savories, Sally Lunn tea sandwiches with a spinach /cheese filling, sun dried tomato sandwiches, cranberry nut sandwiches, mini raspberry cheesecakes, fresh baked cookies, peanut butter roll, pineapple and banana nut breads. The teas served were: Czar’s Samovar (a robust aromatic blend of Ceylon with dried currants), Elmwood Inn Rose, and Kentucky Blend (A perfect black tea best enjoyed with milk and sugar).
What a wonderful way to spend a cold, blustery December afternoon...and such a lovely way to kick off the holiday season.
( Darleen opened her lovely home to the Tea Society for our Tea Cup exchange)
Sunday was certainly the day for special tea events. Not only did I attend Mr. Toast’s wonderful Christmas Tea in Scotland but I also found myself at our Tea Society Christmas Tea in Lexington, Kentucky. Wow…Two teas within a 24 hour period on two different continents..Hum…isn’t that some sort of record? ;)
Of course everyone in the blogosphere is still abuzz over our tea adventure at Torosay castle on the Isle of Mull but we also had a delightful late afternoon tea a bit closer to home and on a much smaller scale. Every year we have an annual member’s only tea cup exchange for Christmas. It was truly a wonderful relaxing afternoon spent in laughter and wonderful conversation among cherished friends and over the greatest drink on the planet, tea of course. And best of all, you always end up bringing home a special tea cup! I will post a glimpse at the Spode tea cups that I received in a future post. Thank you, Natalie!
(A glimpse at some of the delicious tea fare we enjoyed)
(The ladies deep in conversation)
(Darleen's amazing glass ornament filled tree)
(One of members, Carolyn F., had to leave early to attend an advent service but those of use remaining were: Seated( Darleen, our hostess, Natalie- wearing her Edwardian inspired creation- standing, Polly, Rebecca( me)in the center and Caroline B.>)
Our menu this year was: Fresh baked cranberry scones with lemon curd( Yes they were warm and delicious!), artichoke and roasted red pepper savories, Sally Lunn tea sandwiches with a spinach /cheese filling, sun dried tomato sandwiches, cranberry nut sandwiches, mini raspberry cheesecakes, fresh baked cookies, peanut butter roll, pineapple and banana nut breads. The teas served were: Czar’s Samovar (a robust aromatic blend of Ceylon with dried currants), Elmwood Inn Rose, and Kentucky Blend (A perfect black tea best enjoyed with milk and sugar).
What a wonderful way to spend a cold, blustery December afternoon...and such a lovely way to kick off the holiday season.
Friday, December 03, 2010
CASTLE-WEAR AND MR. TOAST'S CHRISTMAS TEA
My dashing date is wearing Armani
My Evening Tea Gown is from Terani Couture( Recommended by Anne Hathaway)
Read below to catch up on the weekend adventure in Scotland
Scroll down below photos for a Saturday Update
Well, the grand weekend is upon us and I arrived at Glenbogle yesterday by rail.
After a rather bumpy ride in a rather beat up land rover through some snow-covered roads, Duncan McKay, the reliable yet rather clueless ranger and all around errand boy, managed to deliver me in one piece to the "stately" Glenbogle house.
I received a warm welcome from my charming host and date for the big Tea Event on Sunday, Archie MacDonald.
Here's a glimpse at some of my wardrobe on this adventure.
Happily, it seems the plumbing issues have been sorted since my last visit. There is in fact hot water in my private bath this time around and it actually runs clear! Yippee!!!..
There's not much time for leisure today. An art conservationist from Glasgow should be arriving any moment to help with the "authentication" of some of the paintings in question. That is, if we can manage to get Hector, Archie's father, to give us the key to the vault where they're being stored. He's up to something and doesn't want anyone to take a look at what he's got stashed away down there...hum...
Alas, I am looking forward to cocktails and dinner this evening. I think I'll need a couple! I chose this little number with a black wrap. Archie said that Hector will certainly approve...:)
Now...I just hope Lexie, the cook, will stop glaring at me. It seems she has a bit of a crush on the Laird and is not pleased at all with my arrival. Oh dear...yes, cocktails will be most welcome!
Stay tuned this weekend for our arrival at Torosay Castle on the Isle of Mull and for Sunday's big event. I'll reveal the final tea attire then.
What was in the Vault?
Well, we finally got the keys from Hector after Molly, Archie’s mother, knew where he was hiding them. She’s a gem! It seems Hector and his friend, Lord Kilwillie, had been hiding a 200 year old barrel of Malt Whiskey down there. Turns out, it may be worth quite a lot of money but Hector was afraid that Archie would want to sale it to help pay for some much needed repairs. Oh well…I think Archie may have won the first round, as he has seized the barrel and locked it away…However, I suspect this latest MacDonald debate is far from over.
Unfortunately, the paintings I was hired to authenticate were indeed forgeries…Quite good forgeries none the less but utter fakes. After all of the events today, Archie is not exactly in the best of moods so let’s hope the journey to Torosay castle and the grand Christmas Tea will get the woes of Glenbogle off his mind.
And, thank goodness Mr. Toast will have proper scones…Lexie’s were ice cold and as hard as bricks. I nearly broke a tooth on one this afternoon!
Until Sunday night my friends…
Most Teafully,
R
My dashing date is wearing Armani
My Evening Tea Gown is from Terani Couture( Recommended by Anne Hathaway)
Read below to catch up on the weekend adventure in Scotland
Scroll down below photos for a Saturday Update
Well, the grand weekend is upon us and I arrived at Glenbogle yesterday by rail.
After a rather bumpy ride in a rather beat up land rover through some snow-covered roads, Duncan McKay, the reliable yet rather clueless ranger and all around errand boy, managed to deliver me in one piece to the "stately" Glenbogle house.
I received a warm welcome from my charming host and date for the big Tea Event on Sunday, Archie MacDonald.
Here's a glimpse at some of my wardrobe on this adventure.
Happily, it seems the plumbing issues have been sorted since my last visit. There is in fact hot water in my private bath this time around and it actually runs clear! Yippee!!!..
There's not much time for leisure today. An art conservationist from Glasgow should be arriving any moment to help with the "authentication" of some of the paintings in question. That is, if we can manage to get Hector, Archie's father, to give us the key to the vault where they're being stored. He's up to something and doesn't want anyone to take a look at what he's got stashed away down there...hum...
Alas, I am looking forward to cocktails and dinner this evening. I think I'll need a couple! I chose this little number with a black wrap. Archie said that Hector will certainly approve...:)
Now...I just hope Lexie, the cook, will stop glaring at me. It seems she has a bit of a crush on the Laird and is not pleased at all with my arrival. Oh dear...yes, cocktails will be most welcome!
Stay tuned this weekend for our arrival at Torosay Castle on the Isle of Mull and for Sunday's big event. I'll reveal the final tea attire then.
What was in the Vault?
Well, we finally got the keys from Hector after Molly, Archie’s mother, knew where he was hiding them. She’s a gem! It seems Hector and his friend, Lord Kilwillie, had been hiding a 200 year old barrel of Malt Whiskey down there. Turns out, it may be worth quite a lot of money but Hector was afraid that Archie would want to sale it to help pay for some much needed repairs. Oh well…I think Archie may have won the first round, as he has seized the barrel and locked it away…However, I suspect this latest MacDonald debate is far from over.
Unfortunately, the paintings I was hired to authenticate were indeed forgeries…Quite good forgeries none the less but utter fakes. After all of the events today, Archie is not exactly in the best of moods so let’s hope the journey to Torosay castle and the grand Christmas Tea will get the woes of Glenbogle off his mind.
And, thank goodness Mr. Toast will have proper scones…Lexie’s were ice cold and as hard as bricks. I nearly broke a tooth on one this afternoon!
Until Sunday night my friends…
Most Teafully,
R
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