The Porch

Welcome to Betty's favorites! My name is Betty and I am a self proclaimed "Serial Plate Collector!" Please, take out your best tea cup, fix yourself some tea and stay a while.



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Sunday, December 5, 2010

The Most Wonderful Time

The Most Wonderful Time...

Can you believe that it's once again the most
wonderful time of the year?  Join me as we turn
the hustle and bustle of the holidays into a season
full of family get-togethers, tea parties for friends
and loads of fun.

The perfect way to gather all of your busy friends
together during the holiday season is to host a
friendship tea.  Fill your home with the warm aroma
of baking Sweet Creme Scones and Lavender &
White Chocolate Scones and have the girls over for
a relaxing afternoon.  Pair Cranberry Scones with
dreamy hot Chocolate Romance Tea to ward off chilly
weather on a wintry evening after a full day of shopping.
To top off a TEA-rrific afternoon with other busy moms,
spend time chatting around the fire while making gifts
for your family and friends...even your fuzzy, four-legged
friends!  A knit Diggie Scarf is ideal to outfit your furry
friends with stylish winter wear.

Bring little ones' imaginations to life during this Christmas
season as you work together to create a whimsical Ginger-
bread House and a village of Gingerbread Cookie People to
enjoy.  Your kitchen is just the place to make tasty, inspired
gifts for teachers, friends and anyone else who touches your
family members' lives.  Lemon Scones and Raspberry Filled
Scones are the perfect gifts to say "Thank you and merry
Christmas!

So whether you're enjoying a mug of Lady Lavender Grey
with your friends by a cozy fire or inspiring your children to
create Christmas gifts and traditions of their own, I wish you
all the best this holiday season.

Enjoy each special,
Christmas-filled day!

xo  Betty J

*All the TEA products mentioned above can be purchased at my
  E-Boutique:  http://www.yoursettoatea.com/BAyers
           You may have to click on search 2 or 3 times to get there.  Sorry.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Brewing the Perfect Cup

Brewing the Perfect Cup...
1.  First of all, start with fresh cold water.
2.  Experts agree:  Don't microwave the water.
3.  Heat the water to the correct temperature as directed. 
4.  Steep for the recommended time.
5.  Remember to brew to your own taste.

Loose Tea Guide:

6 oz. cup...1 tsp*
24 oz. teapot...1 tbsp*

*Loose Herbal Teas generally require double

Tea Variety                                     Water Temp.                                   Steeping Time         

Green & Darjeeling Teas             160 F                                                  3-5 minutes
White Tea                                         175 F                                                  1-3 minutes
Black Tea                                           Rolling Boil                                    3-5 minutes
Herbal (tisanes)                             Rolling Boil                                    5-8 minutes

Enjoy your perfect cuppa all through the day!

Monday, November 29, 2010

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique: Gracing the Table

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique: Gracing the Table: "A table graced in holiday finery always signals a special occasion. Set to a Tea's... Twilight Rose tablecloth, napkins, cosies and teapot,..."

Gracing the Table

A table graced in holiday finery always signals a special occasion.  Set to a Tea's... Twilight Rose tablecloth, napkins, cosies and teapot, mix well with their set of silver plated tea spoons, each adorned with a teapot on the handle.

Shop for these favorite things at my E-Boutique:  http://www.yoursettoatea.com/BAyers
You may have to click on search 2 or 3 times to get there.

xo  Betty Ayers
      Consultant


Blissful Giving

Dazzling Decor...

Celebrate the wonder of Christmas with beautiful trimmings that bring enchantment to all who behold them with teapot ornaments made with teapot cookie cutters from Set to a Tea at my E-Boutique:

http:www.yoursettoatea.com/BAyers
you may have to click on search 2 or 3 times

Bring comfort and joy to cherished family and friends with expressive gifts that come from the heart.  These special tokens of affection are sure to make spirits soar in this blessed season of generosity.

xo  Betty Ayers
      Consultant


Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Cardinal Family and Chickadees

A Cardinal family of what seems to be 8 young cardinals
and 2 beautiful Chickadees eat at our birdfeeder every day,
numerous times.  They dish seed out like snow to the ground
for the doves, who thoroughly enjoy it.  Occasionally, we have
a young Bluejay visit to eat.  Sometimes a squirrell will eat below
on the ground.  Naturally, other birds probably come when we're
not at the kitchen window looking for them.  I would not be
without my birdfeeder to watch and feed these beautiful birds!
We have only 1 feeder up at the time.  How many do you have out?

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Remembering a Special Thanksgiving

Remembering a Special Thanksgiving

     November has arrived and it really feels like winter here in Kentucky, even a few snowflakes already...and we're in the mood for Thanksgiving.  Along with thoughts of turkey & dressing and chocolate cake, we love this time of year because it reminds us all to count our blessings.
     Mother & daddy are now gone to heaven but our best Thanksgivings were spent with them, our children, sister and cousins,  for which we will always be thankful.
     What are your special Thanksgiving memories?
Betty J
Photo of my parents, Ida & Clifton with my children...youngest to oldest...Angie, Jamie (bottom rt.), Cindy,
Scott and Craig.

Tell us a little about yourself, your family and where you live.
   * What originally inspired you to start blogging?
   * As a busy mom who also works outside the home, how do you carve out the time to write?
   * How did you get your start in the kitchen?
   * Care to share a favorite recipe?
   * What's the best thing to happen as a result of starting your blog?
   * Pie or cake?  Cookies or fudge?
   * Fill in the blank:  In my kitchen, we never run out of ___________!
   * Aside from family and friends, what are 5 things you just can't live without?
   * Tell us something that no one would guess about you.
   * Do you use tea leaves or brewed tea (in place of water) in recipes for food or drinks?

Choose to answer 1 or more of these below in Comments for an entry into my giveaway for November.  Each seperate answer you give qualifys you for 1 entry.  Giveaway begins today,
Sunday, November 7, 2010 and ends at midnight on Tuesday, November 30, 2010. 
Happy writing!
Betty J

Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake

Meet Barbara, my best friend of 53 years (left, dark hair),
Over the years, Barbara has given me dozens of recipes.  We always looked forward to her Chrstmas candy recipes each year...she had the best ideas!

When our children were little, we spent many nights making Christmas candy...then years later, the Red Velvet cake.

These days and evenings really warmed our hearts!  Our little helpers can really turn a few hours in the kitchen into warm memories to be held for years, can't they?

Pull one of your little helpers into the kitchen and make some new memories today...

Who is your kitchen partner?  What is your favorite cake to bake?

Betty J

  
    

Baking Up Memories!

Baking Up Memories!

     Baking and decorating wedding cakes is one of my and my children's very favorite memories.  Starting way back when Angie was just a little girl, we all looked forward to the occasions for baking and decorating cakes...especially wedding cakes for our family members. 

     Here's a photo from 25 years ago when Angie and David married.  Isn't she as sweet as can be?  These cakes are still some of her fondest memories.  And, yes, I did their wedding cake too!

     Who did you make a special wedding cake for and what kind?

Happy mom,  Betty J

Sunday, October 24, 2010

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD ~ shoebox ~ Nov. 15-22

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD ~ Samaritans Purse

Mission is to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church world wide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

     You can help and participate by filling a shoe box(s) for a boy or girl for Christmas and delivering it /them to your local church along with $7.00 for shipping.  Go to their website and choose a boy(s) or girl(s) to send a Christmas shoe box to.

GIFT IDEAS ~

Toys:
small cars etc.
School Supplies:
pens, etc.
Hygiene Items:
toothbrush, etc.
Other:
hard candy, etc.

A Personal Note:

Do Not Include:
listed

ALL THE INFORMATION IS ON THEIR WEBSITE:  http:/www.operationchristmaschild/

Enjoy your holidays and help someone else enjoy theirs.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Katie Frasure told me about the...

   Christian Appalichian Project

     I was born in Pikeville, KY and want to give
you this information.  Families there need your
help!.  1-800-755-5322  Support a family...contact
Brenda Watts at  bwatts@chrisapp.org

* Food Basket Project
  (dry/canned foods)
* Compassion Basket Project
  (personal hygiene, towels, etc)
* School Rediness Backpack Program
   (school supplies)
* Christmas Basket Program
  (gifts for a family)

Go to their website and fill out an application
and support one family, small as family of 3.

God Bless,
Betty J

Friday, October 22, 2010

Tasty Recipes Halloween Contest

           Tasty Recipes Halloween Contest

     October 31st is fast approaching and we're already thinking of recipes to celebrate the spooky holiday with!  Have any favorites?  Add your Halloween inspired recipes to Belle Ayers Tea Parlor & Boutique by midnight, Sunday, October 31, 2010, and you'll be entered into the "Tasty Recipes Halloween Contest!"  The winner will be announced here on Monday, November 1, 2010.  You can share your recipes here in the comments area, along with your name and email address, so I can contact the winner.

Best of luck!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

October Birthday Giveaway

OCTOBER BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY ~ Winner will be announced after end of month, here.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Greetings to all!!!
Martha
Robin

Friday, October 15, 2010

Gentleman Thomas Anthony Prater

   Link to my royal family line...

   Gentleman Thomas Anthony and Judith Ivye Prater, my 11th great-grandparents were born in England (link to my royal ancestors).  Thomas, born May 6, 1573, Stanton St. Bernard, Wiltshire, England, was the 6th child, and was named after his first born brother who had died.  His father was very wealthy, thus his inheritance was substantial.  Thomas inherited Stanton St. Bernard Manor.  Thomas' grandmother was Elene Kingston Prater.

     Thomas' business was the woolen trade, farming, and ferrier.  His land at Eaton Water was located on the banks of the Thames River where he owned a ferry.  Eaton Water was also a place that people who used the river to transport their goods to the ports of London could stop and feed their livestock and find food and lodging for themselves.

     Thomas' wife Judith Ivye Prater died when her 7th son was born.  Thomas placed a stone carving in the wall of West Kingston Church above her tomb.  This stone carving shows Thomas, his Coat-of-Arms with simbols of his wifes family Coat-of-Arms and the carving of his children and a eulogy to his children and all people who were to read this stone carving.  Judith's tomb is in the floor of the Ivye chapel with the above carving in the wall just above her tomb.

     Thomas Anthony's tomb is in the floor of the church at his manor of Stanton St. Bernard, Wiltshire.

Duchess Betty J

Monday, October 4, 2010

October Birthday Giveaway!

Is your birthday in October?!?  If so,  leave your comment and your name below this message by midnight on October 31st.  The next morning, I will draw one winner from all the names and post result here.  Be sure to come back and see if you are the winner!

"Happy October Birthday!"
Betty J

Friday, September 24, 2010

Win A Vintage Notecard Kit

To enter, send a postcard with your name, address and phone number to:
Collage:  Vintage Notecard Kit, Country Victorian, 1115 Braodway, New York, NY 10010
Deadline to enter is October 29, 2010.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Flower Arranging Kit

     Flower Arranging Kit ~  Caring For Flowers

     Be prepare for anything,  from flashes of inspiration to minor emergencies, by keeping a
flower-arranging kit always within arm's reach.  Simply fill a pretty basket with one or more ot the following essentials:

*  Two pair of scissors--one for cutting flower stems and one for other items, such as ribbon
*  Prunning shears
*  Wire cutters
*  Waterproof floral tape
*  Floral foam
*  Waxed string or dental floss
*  Florist's wire
*  Flower food
*  Ribbons
*  Raffia

Leave your comments and suggestions!

Happy decorating!
Betty J

Artful Flowers ~ In Season

     Flowers are a must for a buffet or dining table--which may accommodate as few as two or as many as dozens of guests at once.  Try these simple but artful ideas for displaying your favorite blooms to their peak seasonal advantage. 
     This October, we will be entertaining about sixty family members in our home for a Halloween buffet.  Everyone's very excited and it will be a lot of fun.  I have already started decorating for fall and Halloween, inside and outdoors.  Also bought a new bingo game called...TEAGO...you can find it on the internet.

* FALL *
Transform a pumpkin, either miniature or full size, into a colorful "vase" for fresh flowers.  Simply fit a glass or plastic container inside a clean, hollow pumpkin and place the bouquet inside, with stems trimmed to fit.  Water-drenched floral foam in the bottom of the plastic or glass container will provide additional anchorage and keep the arrangement fresh longer.

     Consider supplementing a fall arrangement with other seasonal elements, such as whole fruits, pinecones, preserved leaves, and dried flowers.

Happy decorating!
Betty J
http://blackberrypatchcookbook.blogspot.com/

Fall

    
Don't you just love that first crisp day of fall?  Our's occured on September 4th at 57 degrees and then we have had some more days in the 90s which will disappear next week.  Thankfully!  Cooler days are such a relief after months of summer heat, and we know that the spectacular show of fall colors are just around the corner.  We've seen neat bales of hay in the fields and pumpkins piled high at the roadside markets---all signs of this wonderful season. 
     As we traveled to Floyd County Kentucky, the tree leaves were just beginning to change colors and fall to the ground, blowing in the wind and swirling onto the road.  The cooler weather is a perfect travel companion, so pack a bag or a picnic, and take off!
     This time of year is ideal for outdoor entertaining.  Enjoy the fruits of the fall harvest.
     Revel in the wonders of fall and in the beauty that abounds in our beloved country.
     So, pour yourself a cup of fresh hot tea, and drink in the wordl around you!

Blessings,  Betty J
http://blackberrypatchcookbook.blogspot.com/

Monday, September 13, 2010

2010 Prater Family Reunion

Saturday, my husband, Ed and I attended the Prater family reunion in Eastern kentucky at the home of Robert Prater, the old home place of Rhodes & Luranna Ousley Prater (photo at left, son, Jackson below).  A good time was had by all and we met lots of new cousins.  The table looked like Thanksgiving dinner.  I must say, I came away too ful!  It was a pleasure to meet Robert, Beulah and Molly and all the rest.  I collected names and mailing addresses and took family pictures, which I will post soon as developed.  We are looking forward to the reunion again, next year!

Betty J

2010 Prater Family Reunion

Saturday, my husband, Ed and I sttended

Grandparents Day

Grandparents Day was fabulous!  I hope all you grandparents had agreat day!
G-Grandmother, Betty J

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Belle Ayers Tea Guild

Belle Ayers Tea Guild ~

Join us for tea, parties, giveaways, sharing creations and ideas.

From fabulous tablescapes to delectable recipes.

To join:

1.  Become a follower, if you aren't already.
     (click on follow in top left of page).
2.  Spread the word!  Please post about this blog.  Let the whole 
     world know about our Tea Guild and share our excitement.
3.  Leave me a comment on this post.
     Please!  In your comment - leave me an e-mail address and
     your blog name.  You may send it to me in an e-mail if you wish.
     I will automatically add you to our Tea Guild list.


                                             Duchess Betty J

Friday, August 20, 2010

Taylor Leighton

Taylor Leighton, my great-granddaughter.
All natural beauty.  My daughter-in-law,
Lisa Beth loves photography  and takes
many photos of her grandchildren.

Betty

Valentine Wedding

Ed and I were married at
my friend, Barbara's house
during a two foot snow on
Valentines Day.  This year
we celebrated our 25th
wedding anniversary.

Blue and White Dishes

My 17th Century Stafforshire dish pattern.  This sets design is a countryside with church in background and an inn up front with a carriage, driver, coach occupants and four horses pulling coach.  Beautiful quaint scene in my favorite blue and white.

Hummingbird Nest

When I put together the spring wreath below, I had no
idea what history would follow it.  I hung it on our large
front porch and placed a glass top table under it.  One
evening, while working with dried flowers at the table,
a humming bird came down twice and hovered above
the table, so close I could have touched it.  I told my
husband, "It looks like she wants me to move!"  Little
did I know she had built her nest behind the bottom of
this wreath.  I didn't know until fall when I took the wreath
down, that she had built there.  I'm thrilled to have had this
experience and it will never happen again.  Next time, I will
know to move away.  I've had the wreath out again this
year, in hopes that another hummingbird will take up
residency, but no luck.

30 Year Old Birdhouse

30 year old birdhouse found in a thrift store.  Great find!
Devine Birdhouses

Decorating schemes soar with these colorful shelters.

The notion of a cozy hose is as appealing to finches, robin and wrens as it is to you and your family.  And birdhouses, whether designed to blend into their natural surroundings or provide a lively spot of color, double as decorative accents even indoors--with faux birds.

From the purely practical side a wooden box with a simple portal will do, but hanging a lovingly painted architectural folly shows off your romantic sense of style.  Creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece is easy.  Store-bought houses can quickly be transformed with handcrafted upgrades--picket fences, weathervanes or shutters--or embellished with materials that reflect your passions.

Originally devised to attract songbirds to the garden, fanciful birdhouses strike a decorative note indoors or out.  In the same way that a single rose is beautiful but an entire bouquet is bteathtaking, a solitary birdhouse is beguiling.  Displaying a flock of these avian havens, however, makes any decorating scheme truly take flight.
TWICE AS NICE  A garden bench makes the perfect roost for a spectacular blue and white duplex with a steeple penthouse.
OF A FEATHER  Craft one-of-a-kind creations from architectural salvage and dollhouse supplies.
GO TO THE SOURCE
Looking for architecturally designed shelters that are as lovely as they are functional and species specific?  One of our favorite purveyors is:  songbirdgarden.com

Happy Birding!
Betty J 


Honey Scones

Honey Scones, a light taste of honey and ginger flavor
these tender scones;  nice with breakfast, as a lunchtime
treat or served with afternoon tea.

Makes 6 to 8 scones

Dough:
2  1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2  1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled, cut into small pieces
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup whipping (heavy) cream

Olive-Nut Spread

Olive-Nut Spread seems to be a Kentucky favorite, as
suggested by my friend, Barbara.

This recipe makes about 2 cups and is also good with
wheat crackers, celery sticks or thick slices of cucumber.

Recipe:

one  8 oz. package neufchatel or cream cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup pemento-stuffed olives
Dash of black pepper or dash of red hot pepper sauce
(not both peppers)

Combine all ingredients in a food processor, mixing until
well combined.  Store in refrigerator.

Use teapot cookie cutters to cut Hawaiian bread pieces.
Spread each tiny sandwich with Olive-Nut spread for
delightfully tasting finger sandwiches.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Dr. J. C. Ayer's Sarsaparilla

Dr. J. C. Ayer's Sarsaarilla, purifies the blood, makes the weak strong.  For health and long life use Ayer's Sarsaparilla.

An advertisement from about the 1850s.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Orange Gingerbread Finger Sandwich Treat

Orange Gingerbread Finger Sandwich Treat

Makes 10 Finger Sandwich Treats

1  1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Green Tea Orangerie Tea
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoonn ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup dark molasses
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 recipe Orangerie Creme Filling (recipe follows)
Garnish:  orange zest

Friday, July 23, 2010

Chocolate Raspberry Tea Cake

Chocolate Raspberry Tea Cake

2 cups all  purpose flour
1 tablespoon Chocolate Romance Tea
1 tablespoon Raspberry Fields Tea
2 teasp[oons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup dark cocoa powder
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 recipe Raspberry Fields Mousse
1 recipe Chocolate Romance Ganache
Garnish: fresh raspberries if desired

Preheat oven to 350 Degrees
Grease and flour (3) 6x2-inch cake pans

In medium bowl, combine flour, Chocolate
 Romance Tea, Raspberry Fields Tea,
baking soda, and salt.  In a large bowl,
combine sugar and butter.  Using electric
mixer at medium speed, beat until creamy,
scraping bowl often.  Add buttermilk, cocoa,
oil, eggs, and vanila extract; beat until smooth.
Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour
mixture, beating until moistened.  Add boiling
water, and beat at medium speed until smooth.
Pour batter into prepared pans.
Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until wooden tooth
pick inserted in center comes out clean; cool in
pans on wire racks 10 minutes.  Remove from
pans and cool completely on wire racks.
To assemble, spread Raspberry Fields Mousse
on top of 1 cake layer and top with another cake
layer; repeat.  Pour Chocolate Romance Ganache
over center of cake, allowing excess to cover
sides.  Garnish with fresh raspberries if desired.

Raspberry Fields Mousse

2 tablespoons cold water
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup frozen raspberrys, thawed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons Raspberry Fields Tea
1/2 cup heavy cream

In small, microwave-safe dish, combine
water and gelatin; let stand 5 minutes.
Microwave 1 minute.  In container of blender,
puree raspberries and lemon juice; strain to
remove seeds.  In medium saucepan, combine
raspberry puree, sugar and Raspberry Fields
Tea over medium heat.  Stir occasionally,
until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.  Stir in
dissolved gelatin.  Remove from heat and chill
raspberry mixture 2 hours.
In medium bowl and using electric mixer at high
speed, beat cream until stiff peaks form.  Add
 raspberry mixture, beating 1 minute; chill 2 hours.

Chocolate Romance Ganache

1 1/4 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons Raspberry Fields Tea
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate morsels

In medium saucepan over medium heat, combine
cream, Raspberry Fields Tea, sugar, and corn syrup,
 stirring until sugar dissolves.  Stir in chocolate until
melted.  Cool slightly before use.

* Note:  Chocolate Romance Tea and Raspberry
Fields Tea can be purchased from Betty Ayers, or (859) 687-0789

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor

~ Belle Ayers Tea Parlor ~

     We carry a full line of teas and tea party accessories including:
     * Black Teas, Green Teas, Rooibos Teas and Herbal Teas *
        assorted ceramic teapots * Tea Music CDs * cards * cookie
        cutters * mesh ball infuser * strainers * scone mixes * sugars *
        curd * numerous cosies, napkins teapots, and matching table
        linen ensambles * Sterling Silver jewelry * Tea Gift Baskets *

     Join my Duchess' Tea Guild Club and recieve a sample tea packett
and recipes monthly.

     Sign up to receive Gift Baskets for any ocassion.

Betty Ayers, Consultant, Sales & Recruiting
belleayers@gmail.com
(859) 879-9445

Blackberry Tea Cake

           Blackberry Peach Tea Cake

Using Currant Fancy, a full bodied black tea
with a rich blackberry flavor, and, Picnic
Peach, a light bodied decaffeinated black tea
with fruity peach flavors.

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Currant Fancy tea
1 tablespoon Picnic Peach tea
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups sliced and peeled fresh firm,
   ripe peaches (about 2 large peaches)
1 cup fresh blackberries
powdered sugar
fresh blackberries and sliced peaches
for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

     Beat butter at medium speed with
electric mixer until creamy; gradually add
granulated sugar, beating well.  Add eggs,
1 at a time, beating until blended after each
addition.
     Combine flour, Currant Fancy & Picnic
Peach teas, baking powder and salt; add to
butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning
and ending with flour mixture.  Beat at low
speed blended after each addition.  Stir in
vanilla.  Pour batter into a greased and floured
9-inch springform pan.
     Bake at 350 degrees for 70 to 80 minutes
or until center of cakr is set.  Check with
wooden toothpick.  When it comes out clean,
cake is ready to come out of oven.  Let cool
completely on wire rack ( about 1 1/2 hours).
Dust with powdered sugar and cover top of
cake with Streusel topping.

Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup butter softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon Currant Fancy tea
1 tablespoon Picnic Peach tea
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Beat butter, Currant Fancy tea and Picnic
Peach tea  at medium speed with an
electric mixer until creamy; gradually add
granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating
well.  Add flour, cinnamon and nutmeg;
beat just until blended.
Apply to cake and garnish with  fresh
blackberries and sliced peaches if desired.

Betty Ayers, tea consultant and sales
belleayers@gmail.com
(859) 879-9445

Monday, July 19, 2010

Tea Time Calendar

~ Set to a Tea ~

Tea Time Calendar...

Hanging perpetual calendar features dated
lines for each month of the year to list important
occasions. Additional pages list birthstones,
birthday flowers, directions for brewing the
perfect cup of tea, a famous scone recipe and more!

#5012

Contact your consultant:Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 for your FREE catalog or to place your order. You can become a consultant too! Just ask Betty how.


Afternoon Tea and Music

~ Set to a Tea ~

Afternoon Tea and Music...

Recipes for cooks who want to recreate the
Victorian experience at home, also included
is a guide to the world's teas, tea history and
lore. Plus the CD of chamber music...harp,
flute, violin, and cello sets the mood!

#5011

Contact your consultant:
Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 for your FREE catalog or
to place your order. You can become a consultant too! Just as Betty.

Tea time and Music

~ Set to a Tea ~

Tea time and Music...

A beautiful set of recipe cards in an easy to
make format with a glossy photo and CD of
classical titles for your tea time pleasure!

#5010

Stocking Your Pantry

~ Set to a Tea ~

Stocking your pantry...

Festive Tea Sugars:

Holiday green, winter white and festive red make thses tree shaped sugars a big hit. 2 oz. pack, approx 28 pieces per pack.

Holiday #7025
Snowflake #7026

Also available in Winter Snowflakes! Ivory and white sugars can be enjoyed all winter long!

Gourmet Scone Mixes:

Want to make mouth-watering scones?
This mix is easy and delicious!

Gingerbread #7027
Pumpkin #7028

Contact your consultant:
Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 for your FREE catalog or to
place your order. You can become a consultant too! Just ask Betty.

New Cosie Collections - Continued

~ Set to a Tea ~

New Cosie Collections - Continued...

Classic Jewels Collection:

* Teapot Cosie Set * Teapot Cosie Cover only * Teacup Cosie Set * Teacup Cosie Cover only *
Bombay Teapots 3 cup or 6 cup in several colors *

Your Consultant:

Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 for your FREE catalog or to
place your order. You can become a consultant too!

New Cosie Collections

~ Set to a Tea ~

New Cosie Collections...

Holiday Hydrangea Collection:

* Tea Table Cloth * Teapot Cosie Set * Teapot Cosie Cover * Tea Napkins...Set of 4 or 6 *
Teacup Cosie Set * Teacup Cosie Cover only * Holiday Traditions Teapot *

A Golden Traditions Collection:

* Tea Table Cloth * Teapot Cosie Set * Teapot Cosie Cover only * Tea Napkins Set 4 or 6 *
Teacup Cosie Set * Teacup Cosie Cover only * Silver Serving Set of intricate hammered
floral detail work on silver plate. Set includes teapot, sugar and creamer *

Passion for Tea ~ Skin Care

~ Set to a Tea ~

Passion for Tea ~ Skin Care...

Green Tea Shea Butter Bars: Introducing our luxurious shea butter soap! Real green tea has been added for a wonderful aroma and texture. The natural oils in shea butter will rejuvenate dry skin. Hard-milled and very long-lasting these two bars are cleverly packaged in our exclusive tea tin.

Spa Day Set: Enjoy a smooth refreshed feeling! Our Spay Day Set includes a 5 oz. jar of gentle brown sugar scrub to exfoliate your dry skin and a 5 oz. jar of rich shea butter lotion to moisturize and renew! Two "tea"riffic scents are available. Green Tea Scent Set or Sweet Creme Scone Set. Great for Gift Giving anytime!

Your Consultant:
Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 for your FREE catalog or to
place your order.

Girls' Night In!

~ Set to a Tea ~

Girls' Night In!

Plan a relaxing girls night out...right in your own home or in the Dining Hall at your church!

Your Consultant:
Betty Ayers, belleayers@gmail.com or (859) 879-9445 You can become a Consultant too!

A Passion for Tea ~ Jewelry Collection

~ Set to a Tea ~

Jewelry Collection...

Jewelry Collection: Fine sterling silver pieces. Choose from pearl, pink crystal, and prism crystal jewels. All jewels available in earrings, pendant and bracelet.

Teapot Pins: Wear on your lapel or blouse. Perfect choice for gift giving too! Sterling Silver
1x1" comes in Alladin Pot, Square Pot or Tea Service.

Teapot Earrings: Compliment to the Teapot Pins. Sterling Silve.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Kentucky Derby Winner 2010

~ Kentucky Derby Winner 2010 ~

Super Saver...

Super Saver grazed in his stall Sunday, one day after winning the Kentucky Derby.
Super Saver ran straight to the rail under Calvin Borel. That move inside led to
Lookin At Lucky getting squeezed in the early stages of the race.

Ladies Victorian Flirting Fans

~ Victorian ~

Ladies Victorian Flirting Fans...

Harken back to the era of Queen Victoria, with all its propriety and formality.
Victorian fans work very well for a wedding, afternoon tea, or costume ball for
guests who love to dress up and drift back in time. If at all possible, hold your
event in a mansion or a Victorian home. Lately, a lot of people are using the
Carrick House in Lexington.

Courtship was once an orchestrated affair: Young women never failed to keep
their fans in hand, the perfect ball gown accessory in the mid- nineteenth century.
Flirtations accoutrements like an oval brass-mounted mirror set in the guard of
the early nineteenth-century bone fan---were used by discreet ladies to chance a
peek at beaux standing behind them at the ball.

Fan Flirting: As a party activity you can teach your guests one of the primary
methods of romantic communication in the Victorian Era, taken from the Young
Ladies' Journal, 1872.

The code is as follows:

Fan fast--I am independent
Fan slow--I am engaged
Fan with right hand in front of face--Come on
Fan with left hand in front of face--Leave me
Fan open and shut--Kiss me
Fan open wide--Love
Fan half open--Friendship
Fan shut--Hate
Fan swinging--Can I see you home?

Your guests will have a ball with this flirting technique!

Poinsettia Day

~ Christmas ~

Poinsettia Day...

Need a reason to celebrate? December 12th marks
National Poinsettia Day in honor of Joel Roberts
Poinsett, a Southern plantation owner and the man
who introduced the native Mexican plant to the
United States in the 1820s.

Grandchildren's Birthday Tea Partys

The Tea Diaries...

~ Jaylynn's Cinderella Birthday Tea Party ~

Remembering the intimacy of sharing tea, it's a special joy to have my young great-grandchildren who like to drink tea with me.

Jaylynn invited her two brothers and two friends.
We offered a birthday cake, a plate of diminutive peminto cheese or ham salad sandwiches (crusts trimmed, of course), and nutterbutter cookies. Herbal tea was served using my two china, floral tea sets. Other table features were a ceramic likeness of Cinderella. Place cards featured each child's first initial written in glitter on folded construction paper. The table absolutely sparkled as it waited for the party to begin.
The guests came to the table looking excited if slightly shy.
After a lively time of refreshments, including birthday cake and ice cream, the tea things were cleared away.
Pictures from the tea party are the basis for a photo album for Jaylynn. Smiles on the children's faces confirmed that Cinderella and tea parties make a memorable blend.

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The Tea Diaries...

A Mad Hatter's Birthday Tea Party for my great-grandson, Jerrad

The tea party is surely one of the first steps into the art of social entertaining. How many among us did not set out cups and saucers and dump heaping spoonfuls of sugar into cups of weak, lukewarm tea as children? Sisters and favorite dolls were the usual guests, but a brother ot two could liven up the party.
Imagine my pleasure this summer when my oldest g-grandson said, Yes!" when I asked him if I could give him the party! Permission was granted, and preparations began.
Grandmother Cindy's home set the stage. A long table covered in royal blue and set in true Mad Hatter fashion, a red, white and blue tablescape.
Guests included Jerrad's sister, brother, and two favorite stuffed animals...March Hare and Dormie the dormouse.
Tea fare consisted of a cheese, ham, pepperoni, and crackers tray, tea, and chocolate birthday bunny cakes. Formalities were optional, quotes from the famous story abundant, and a happy and memorable time had by all.