A BIG birthday

I'm not normally one to go out of my way for birthday events, but this year I decided to celebrate through the weekend.  I was planning on traveling, but the place I intended to go is currently battling some flooding, so I improvised.

Friday my work buddies were super cool and we all went out for lunch.  Sunday, I'll be joining my brother and his family for a combo birthday/Mother's day (for my SIL) dinner.

Saturday (my birthday), my friend Angie and I went for a Victoria Tea.  This was new to her and a favorite event for me.  In the spirit of celebrating, and last week's wedding, and this week's Kentucky Derby - I sported a fun new headband with ribbons, lace, and bling. 

They had handmade quilts on each table.  They were all different colors and patterns.  The wallpaper was cream based, with tiny flowers.  There was a hand painted mural on one wall.  I would have taken a photo, but I didn't want to interrupt the laddies at the table in front of it.

The bottom tier had finger sandwiches, which were so delicious I forgot to take a photo of them before we ate them all.  YUM.

The second tier had these scones, fruit, and smoked cheese.  Of course on the table we also had jam and cream for the scones.  This was a particular favorite of Angie's.

The top tier had lemon walnut cookie bars with a glaze, angel food cake with cream and cherries, and dark chocolate fudge wedges. 

Of course we ate this with assorted samplings of tea.  (And no, none of this is on my gluten free plan - but it was my birthday).



The tea house is located in a small suburban town, in an original coach house.  This location is very near a river, with railroads not far as well.  The building was built about 1830 (I think), but was added on a bit to fit in a few more tables.  The tea house has been running for about 26 years, which is quite long in the US.  They are only open lunch hours, but do serve other items off a menu, if the High Tea isn't your style.  We did have to take a few of the sweets home to finish later.  I will definitely be back!

M.E.

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