New Tea Room

Four of us went yard sailing today, this time with Shirley and without Carolyn, who wasn't able to come. I can't say what it is about yard sailing that is such a hit, but it sure is. Rain or shine, it's fun. While we were driving along, several men were cutting broken limbs from a damaged maple tree. We pulled over, I got out, and asked if I could have a log for my husband, who has a wood lathe and does wood turning. They were happy to oblige, and asked which piece I'd like to take. I made a selection, the chain saw was fired up, the piece was cut, and hand carried to the back of the van for me. They were so nice. We're always on the lookout for wood now, as well as yard sale signs. Jim's acquiring a stockpile.

We went to Beck's for a good lunch, then made a stop at a new tea shop in town. Today was the grand opening of the Sweet Simplici-Tea tea room in historic Sykesville, and what a treat. Two sisters have opened this shop, which had previously been a very sorry lunch place. It's been completely redecorated in a Victorian style, with lovely old furniture, curtains, and tea ware everywhere. They have seating for 25 people. The decor is just lovely, mauve walls and floral wallpaper. Even the bathroom is charming. The tea room also has a gift shop with beautiful handmade items from local artisans. All the food was free of charge today. We were served a delicious pot of White Apple Tea, with a lovely plate of fruits and sweets to sample along with our tea. The place was filled with customers all the while we were there, and from what the sisters said, it had been like that all day. They seemed to be thrilled with the response from everyone who came in, and I just know it will be a big hit. They deserve a lot of credit for all the hard work and planning they've obviously put into making their business successful. The local Red Hat Society chapters alone should keep them busy. I know we'll be back ourselves.

I wonder if there's a full moon tonight. The cats are racing around acting crazy. Ming Poo has been tearing around the house, growling in her tough girl voice, and Paddle is running around too. They seem to have some extra energy to burn off. Paddle is willing to play with Ming Poo tonight. Pong is pretending he doesn't know either of them, lying on the floor in his aloof sphinx posture. Ball is pretending to sleep on the the rocking chair pillow, his back to everyone.

PHOTO: Taken a couple of weeks ago. Our favorite doe, Penelope, who comes often to visit. Jim walked up to the shed today to bring Pong inside, since he'd been out all day and it was getting pretty hot. He was standing there looking into the woods as Jim was petting him. Jim looked up to see what Pong was staring at, and there was Penelope a short distance from them, watching Jim and Pong. Then she scampered away. On our way home this afternoon, my friends and I saw a spotted fawn peeking out from the woods on the edge of the road. I saw her mother going into the woods just before I saw the fawn.