What a peculiar place to have a tea party....


The sun is warming all of the plants and the trees have bloomed in colors of lilac, peach and pink. Originally, I wanted to find a bright, spring like meadow with plenty of lovely flowers and sunshine but something drew me to this dark coniferous forest last Sunday afternoon. I almost expected to find little traces of Hansel and Gretel's trail of crumbs so they could find their way home.

I've enjoyed a few picnics in these woods, especially on very hot summer days, the pine needle carpet is crisp and cool and it is always so comfortable enjoying tea and sandwiches in the shade of these trees.

I found these lovely little antique buttons on Easter weekend. I love the ones with real flowers in them. I don't know what I will do with them yet but I'm sure it will be something wonderful!
Tall, straight trees like these remind me of soldiers. I think they are guarding the secrets of this little pond. I scared a few frogs as I walked up on the pond. They screamed "EEeeek! It's a girl!!" and dove into the dark water.

I've always loved fairy tales and these pictures reminded me of something from an enchanted forest or a daydream. When I was a little girl, my mom used to read the fairy tale "Snow White and Rose Red" to my little sister and I. She said that I was Snow White and Chelsea was Rose Red. Click on the highlighted link above to read the annotated version of one of my favorite childhood fairy tales. (P.S. I -did- marry a bear!)What are your favorite fairy tales?


"I hope I never find my way home"


Hat-my very first vintage purchase, bought for a tea party, actually!
Long pearls- from my great grandmother
pearl choker with amethyst pendant-creve coeur antiques
lace blouse- had it for years, don't remember where it came from!
white pleated skirt- thrifted this past Friday
gloves-estate sale
Brown Victorian style boots-my new favorite shoes thrifted from the Salvation Army
Umbrella-St Charles Antiques a few years ago
White beaded purse-heirloom from my great great grandmother, Florence
Tea service- my wedding china
little cow creamer-Home Goods
Quilt-handmade for me by my great grandmother