A CHRISTMAS TEA

Several weeks ago, this invite appeared on my desk at work.

It had nothing to do with a book program, or a feature story for the paper, and it was from someone I barely knew.

I met Irene last summer when she entered a drawing for a book giveaway celebrating women’s right to vote. She told me about how she and her husband are from the area but had moved to Florida many years ago. They moved back.

Then I did an article about Irene, and she also entered our holiday recipe contest.

Irene, standing, with her longtime pal, Anna, on Saturday.

With the date open, I put the tea party on my calendar. What a lovely afternoon at Irene’s sipping tea with her friends and tasting the delicious treats she kept producing from the kitchen.

We were to bring our own tea cups and Irene had us tell where we got them.

The first snow of the season brought a dusting, making the day even more festive.

Thank you, Irene, for inviting me to your authentic tea party.

I went home and made chili, wrapped gifts and watched It’s A Wonderful Life.
It is indeed.

On the way home, I noticed this rustic barn with the wreath in the distance. Understated, country, perfect. Merry Christmas, everyone.