The People's Princess

On this day eighteen years ago Princess Diana died in Paris, France from injuries sustained in a tragic automobile accident.  She was just 36 years old.

~ In Memory ~

Althorp, the Spenser family estate and Diana's final resting place, was on my list of places to visit when I went to England earlier this year, but we ran out of time.  Maybe next visit.  It hardly seems possible that 18 years have lapsed since her death.  I still remember the Saturday night the news of the accident came on television, and her passing in the early hours of Sunday morning.  It was such a sad ending to a young life.

While in England we did, however, see her memorial in Harrods.

And her gown display at Kensington Palace

How wonderful that William and Kate are lovingly keeping her memory alive.  He was just 15 when she died.  She would be so proud of the man he's become, and her two beautiful grandchildren.

~ Rest in Peace, Diana ~

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Today I'm joining Rose Chintz Cottage for Tea Time Tuesday

Sunday Reflection...

"Only those who are truly aware of their sin can truly cherish grace." 

~ C. J. Mahoney ~

I'm so grateful God forgives original sin [inherited from Adam], and actual sin [willful transgressions against God's commands] when they're confessed to Him.  

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  I John 1:9

He not only forgives us, but removes the sins that separated us from Him as far as the east is from the west!   [Psalm 103:12].   What wonderful, indescribable love!

May God bless your week!

First Ladies 'Tea and Talk' at the Warner Mansion

We hurried home from Lakeside, Ohio last Sunday to attend a First Ladies 'Tea and Talk' at the Warner Mansion in Farmington Hills, MI.  The mansion is the former home of Michigan's 26th Governor, Fred Warner, 1905 - 1911.

I attended a tea there in September 2013 that was held on the large wrap around porch, but this year's tea was held in a tent in the backyard. 

One section of the large wrap around porch was used this year by hat and fascinator designer, Rachelle Willnus, and another section was used to sell teapots - a fundraiser for the mansion.

~ Tea Party Tent ~

On the way to the tent we passed a garden sculpture of Mrs. Martha Warner, and her daughter, Edessa [behind her mother's skirt].

Servers getting things ready for the tea party.

~ Welcoming words ~

~ Place Setting ~

~ Hat Centerpiece ~

~ Earl Grey Tea ~

The entire tea meal was gluten free to promote the business of a local gluten free caterer. Savories: Lemon Tarragon Chicken Salad on Belgium Endive, Spinach Crunch on Vegan Wrap, Prosciutto on Italian Bread, and Egg Salad on Oat Crunch Cracker.

Desserts:  Chocolate Whiskey Cupcake, Lemon Cheesecake, and Vegan Fruit Tart

I forgot to take a picture of the scone and jams . 

Joan McGlincy did an excellent job of impersonating First Lady Edith Wilson - 2nd wife of Woodrow Wilson, 28th President of the United States.

It was a lovely event to conclude a fun-filled weekend!

Lakeside, Ohio - Part II

After our tea, a shuttle [driver with a deluxe golf cart] took us on a tour of the campgrounds.

~ Lake Erie ~

~ Hotel porch that overlooks the lake ~

In the evening we went to a concert in Hoover Auditorium by the Lakeside Symphony Orchestra.

Bright and early the next morning [Saturday] we got up, dressed, and had breakfast at The Patio Restaurant, and then we made our way over to the antique show.  The vendors began selling at 9:30 a.m.  I made my major purchase at the very first booth I visited - a hanging leaded glass piece for my living room.  It will hang in the C-shape wall cut-out.  I was sooo happy to find it.

~ A Chintz candy dish ~

~ A blue and white cow creamer from Germany ~

He's already found his spot on my living room shelves.

~ An ivory sugar cube tray with numbered markings ~

We split up to do our shopping, and when we met for lunch Linda purchased two blue and white porcelain pieces for me, and said if I didn't like them to just pass them along to someone else. Well, I like them and have already found a spot for them on my shelves.  ;-)

~ A Spode Tray ~

~ A Milk Jug ~

We left for home Sunday morning after breakfast.  What a fun two days, and I'm already looking forward to next year!