Saturday Afternoon Tea

Outside my window - the skies are blue, the clouds are like wisps of cotton and it seems that Spring may not be too far away. Inside - I am determined to clean my office/sewing room. Maybe this time I'll get it done! And maybe this time it will stay clean! I've been working my way through a stack of ironing that has been on the end of my ironing board far too long. I'm actually having fun because there are some wonderful linens waiting to be pressed and I am enjoying each one of them. Some of them bring back such loving memories of dear ones who owned them before me. Others bring a smile to my heart because of the special people who gave them to me with so much love. I love beautiful linens, especially old and handmade linens. My linen closet is full and overflowing and I often wonder if I will ever have enough occasions in my lifetime to use them all. Sometime late last fall my dear little mother's neighbor had a moving sale. Of course you know that my dear mother and I were among the first to arrive. I found that there were not many things I 'needed' but in the middle of the sale I found two matching linens. They are hand-embroidered on fine linen. The price was a steal - she nearly gave them away. I was thrilled to bring them home to add to my collection. When these two pieces came to the top of the stack today I realized that I had not shared them with you. I think you will enjoy them.The stitches are precise and gorgeous! Someone spent a lot of time making these treasures.Each side is beautifully hemmed and embroidered with care.A thought occurred to me as I ironed the first piece - it would be beautiful with the delicate teacup that my dear mother gave me for Christmas. You've not seen it before, either.Aren't they gorgeous together? I cherish the cup - and I think it makes the tea taste more delightful. The inside is so pretty.Even the saucer is a work of art.I think it's nearly time to stop for a cup of tea. Perhaps a cup of the new Jasmine Green Tea I found recently. Oh, I wish you could come join me! If you do, be sure to wear your work clothes - there's lots of work to do in my little room!