Afternoon Tea

I know this is a very difficult time for everyone, even this shy violet is beginning to miss her hectic routine, but what we're doing right now is important and necessary.  So, if we must have solitude, and right now we must, at least we can make it comfortable.  

I have been working on little ways to enjoy my time at home even more and keep things from getting too monotonous.  Getting out the bistro set and returning the plants to the outdoors and creating a lovely place in the yard is a part of that.  I even gave my daughters brushes and a bucket of old house paint so they could finally paint the interior of the tree house they've nearly outgrown, in order to make their own little quiet spot outdoors.  Though, just between you and me, because it looks so nice and cheery in there now, I took a long afternoon cat nap in that breezy tree house just yesterday.

My place of work has shut down and sent us all home with loads of work to do until further notice.  We came in shifts to collect our things in order to have a little social distancing. When we arrived, on every desk was a floral tea cup and for the boss lady a tea pot with a note that said, "enjoy your time away and let's enjoy a cup of tea together in spirit."  

One of my sweet colleagues had done this as a show of solidarity and another started a group message so we could all keep in touch while we're indefinitely away.  Such a lovely sentiment and I took it to heart.  Each afternoon, I pour myself a cup of tea and grab a few of my favorite German tea biscuits, the kinds with raspberry jelly and chocolate cream fillings, and retreat to this spot outdoors.  And I think of my friends from work each time I do.

As part of my afternoon retreat and tea time, I've also made a point to journal everything, not just what the news is telling me but also how my family and I and the people in our community are handling all this, the interesting things that happen and the creative solutions we find.  This is the human spirit rising up to overcome difficult times and it's worth recording.  So, when you're feeling too cooped up, grab a journal and pen, a little something sweet, and join me in spirit for a relaxing cup of tea.

Shopping Info: Top from Forever 21,  Hearts Pinafore Skirt from Shein