Come On In for a Cup of Tea . . .

Step in through the gate . . . 

Take a walk through the historic Hardeman House . . . 

and have a lovely visit with some of your closest friends.

Laura Beth, Madlyn, Gran and myself were so excited to be able to attend the 10th annual Victorian Tea Party at Freed Hardeman University.  Laura Beth and I have been able to attend all but one in the years that it has been going on.  It is a favorite event for our girls in our family!  It has been fun to see Laura Beth and her friends grow in the activities that the tea party brings.  I can remember spending ENDLESS hours in the little girl dress up venue.  Now, we are moving into the hand work they offer during the tea party.  This year's venue was crocheting small flowers that could be put on clips and ponytail holders.  I was so impressed with the girls.  They really worked hard on this difficult task and their results were wonderful!  Laura Beth now wants crochet hooks!

Listening intently as Mrs. Sherry explains what to do . . . 

Madlyn working hard

Laura Beth focusing on her work

Madlyn and Laura Beth met up with sweet Lexi.  It was Lexi's first tea party and we were so
glad to have her there!

I want to share some of my favorite recipes from the day with you.  All the food was fabulous this year (as always)!!!

Spicy Cheddar Pimento Sandwiches

(makes 24 open-face sandwiches)

8 oz. sharp cheddar, shredded

3/4 c. chopped pecans

8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1/4 c. minced chives

5 T. Miracle Whip (or more to taste)

3/4 t. cayenne pepper

1/2 c. diced marinated roasted red peppers

Garnish: fresh chives

Multigrain or party rye bread

In the work bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment, pulse together the cheddar,

Monterey Jack, mayonnaise, and cayenne until mixture is mostly smooth.  Fold in the diced red peppers, pecans, and chives until well combined.  Spread on bread; garnish with chives.