Joyous celebrations!

A special way to celebrate the joys of life!

Thursday afternoon tea!  Celebration!

The writing community I have encountered is so supportive of its members.  I’m currently taking a writing class and find the encouragement of the instructor and the participants gratifying. 

Other writers in my circle are always helpful.  We celebrate one another’s achievements.  This month Kira Brady’s trilogy, beginning with Hearts of Darkness (to be published August 7, 2012) is receiving glowing reviews.  Romance Writers of America announced the finalists for their 2012 contests–and three finalists are of special significance for me—-RITA finalists, Linda Winstead Jones and Cherry Adair, and Golden Heart finalist, Marni Donnelly Folsom.  Congratulations! 

For a special celebration of my first publication, Kira Brady treated me to afternoon tea at the charming Queen Mary Tea Shop in Seattle, Washington.  Celebrations don’t get any better than this—or more elegant!  Sorbet followed by a three-tiered selection of treats (tiny sandwiches, assorted fruits, sweet bites, tender scones) and accompanied by a pot of tea–(I had white peach–delicious!)  The celebration of family, friends, accomplishments and good news! 

I am thankful for the many joys in my life.  And I hope you all have good news to celebrate!

 

“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”   Proverbs 15:30

 

Enjoying Thursday afternoon tea!

This afternoon, I am sipping Blood Orange Rooibos from a micaceous pottery cup made by Brian Grossnickle. I am fascinated by micaceous pottery–the warm golden color I associate with New Mexico landscapes. It seemed appropriate to drink a tea from the New Mexico Tea Company. A good blend of hibiscus, rose-hips, apple pieces, orange, vanilla, and lemon.

Micaceous pottery……I first learned about this beautiful art by reading New Mexico Magazine’s article in the August 2010 issue.

On a trip to Santa Fe, I looked for Cafe Pasqual’s to see what pieces were available to buy at the gallery.  One doesn’t know what will be for sale as they sell very quickly. I was fortunate to find a bean pot made by Felipe Ortega that was exactly what I was hoping to find–the one that felt just right. Yes, it “spoke” to me!  The beautiful “fire clouds” caused during the firing process as the juniper wood touches the pot are intriguing. To use this pot to cook beans is a special experience—the beans and the pot bring together a perfect essence of traditional cooking.

Since then we added cups created by Brian Grossnickle because we enjoy tea and the warmth of the pottery cups.   Art that is to be used and enjoyed.  All treasures of New Mexico!

Now back to writing! And yes, there will be a micaceous pot in a future story!

“Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use?”  Romans 9:21