Snowy sleighride of long ago.

I want to hide in their sleigh and never get out.

Those were the days!  My grandparents lived in

this era in Eastern Kentucky.

 

Absolutely gorgeous chandelier!

 

 

 

Do you collect cardinal design dishes?  I do...just beautiful!

 

These are the snowy nights that send

 blankets of winter  white to warm your soul.

 

 

Everydays' a Tea Party

                                   The Tea Set

     Betty has started her own very unique Tea Set. 
She is asking for donations of china cups and
saucers to put together a truly unique and eclectic
collection.

     This will not just be a collection of china, but a
collection of stories.

     The collection has been started by Betty Ayers,
with more donated or pledged.

     The idea is to have a storyboard at each tea
party which will have pictures of the teacups and saucers and the stories behind them.

     When you attend or host your own tea party with tea consultant
Belle Ayers Tea Party, you will be able to check out the story behind
the cup and saucer you are using, or perhaps inspireing a few stories
of your own?

     The Tea Set is beginning to take on a colorful, eclectic life of it's own
now...if you would like to donate a cup and saucer AND the story behind it, any size, adult or child's ceramic and any seaseon or holiday (the child size will be used for Tea Tasting Parties, just the right size)...please email belleayers@gmail.com or bring your donation along to the next tea!

     Each person who donates a cup and saucer receives a gift certificate!

     Thank you!

Contact:  Betty Ayers
Email:  mytastyteablog@hotmail.com
Phone:  (859) 846-9087

Betty Thompson's Red Hat Tea Party!

Betty Thompson's Red Hat Tea Party!

Goldrush Eporium & Tea

Betty Thompson's Goldrush Tea Eporium

Take your vacation in Aburn California and be sure to visit the
lovely Betty Thompson's Goldrush Eporium & Tea at...
12434 Tam O Shanter Lane, Auburn California 95603
Email:  bettythompson.thompson@gmail.com

Experience the thrill of tasting and seeing all things for your
Afternoon Tea.

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique: Chocolate Raspberry Tea Cake

My Email

                                           E-mail Betty at  mytastyteablog@hotmail.com

About Me

     Tea is my passion.  We belong to the "Tea of the Month Club" and INVITE YOU to join us.  Call 859-294-9297 or email  mytastyteablog@hotmail.com

We have a large family and tea is so good for your health that I make Tea Basket Gifts for our family and friends.  Extremely worth having them in
for special occasions and birthdays.

Finest selections each month:

                                   A Tin of Fine Tea,
A seasonal Afternoon Tea Menu, including recipes, the Tea Guild's
Tea Review and Newsletter, Our favorite Tea Brewing Guide, and
always a Special Surprise to enjoy with your tea!

Items ship directly to you.  Call or email Betty to subscribe.  859-294-9297 or
mytastyteablog@hotmail.com

Special shipping charges of $5 per gift will apply.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES:
1 month.............$22.oo
2 months...........$42.00
3 monthe...........$62.00

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WELCOME

Welcome to my blog about family, tea, recipes, You Can Do Tea, and exciting finds.

Teacup Tuesday April 3, 2012

Teacup Tuesday ~  April 3, 2012

  This beautiful English Rose teacup & saucer, purchased at TJ MAX is
the first pattern I truly want to collect.  I have others but this one is beautiful
and pink!  Made by Roy Kirkham, England fine bone china.  The only difference
is that my teacup has a gold ring around the bottom of the teacup.  Photo...an
exclusive design, Footed, ribbed and no trim.

Sharing A Cup of Tea

Lace & Doillie Chair

Beautiful Lace & Doillie Chair by
Vintage Pixie. 

"I would love to make a chair like this!

For A Son, Scott Who's A Special Blessing

Happy Birthday Scott ~


Life holds some spectacular blessings,
and one of the greatest by far
is having a son
who turned out to be
the warm, caring person your are.

Happy Birthday With Love,
Mom

Tea Cup Tuesday

Tea Cup Tuesday...

Our first teacup Tuesday and my photos are
not ready and it will be a while longer.

Write it on your heart

Write it on your heart
that every day is the
best day in your year.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Snow

All this beautiful snow makes me feel warm inside, and desire to cook some good old fashioned food.  So, the pinto beans are on and meatloaf will soon be in the oven.

What is your favorite snowy day meal?

Stay safe and drive carefully,
Betty

Beautiful Winter Wonderland

From the porch...
the scenery is wonderous.  Our 3 dogwood trees heavely laden with snow in the form of balls.  I must buy a new cell phone for taking pictures.  Wish you could see it from the porch.

Royal Daulton Salt & Pepper Set

Royal Daulton Chanticlair Salt (hen) & Pepper (rooster)
set 2004, Studio, Rooster, Flowers, Stripes.

This photo is from the Royal Dalton ad.  A copy of my set, found at the Good Will in January 2012.  I've always been attracted to roosters but this is my only choice.
They are so cute and adorable.  I have bought rooster items for family gifts and this set is the best.
All their red colors are striking.  I am a thrift shopper of the Good Will and find some
beautiful home decor.

Enjoy,
Betty

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique: Apron Collection

Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique: Apron Collection

Apron Collection

Apron Collection ~

Are you a Tea Lady, wife & mom,
or student?  Do you collect aprons?
I do.  Can't resist those lovely aprons.

Most of mine are in storage but I bought a new one
last week...that I will be showing you!  I'm messy in cooking, dishwashing and various household duties, so I have to wear
an apron.  Started as a young married woman, I enjoyed them
so.  Come to think of it, an apron was my first sewing adventure
in school (4-H Club).  Mine was green checkered with dark
green trim.  Gee, was I proud of it!

I look forward to hearing about your apron collection and seeing
photos when possible. 

May this be your sweetest spring,
Blessings, Betty
(please tell us your story below)  Thanks!

Sweet Remembrances: Recipes

Sweet Remembrances:  Recipes

It's the perfect time for homemade soup...

WHITE CHILE

2  tablespoons cooking or olive oil
1  cup chopped onions
2  chopped garlic cloves
3  cups chicken broth
2  tablespoons fresh cilantro (don't skip this)
2  tablespoons lime juice
1  teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper sauce
1/4  teaspoon salt
1  can (11 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
1  can (15 ounces) great northern beans, drained
1  can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained
2  cups chopped cooked chicken breast

  In 4 quart pan, add oil and cook onions, stirring occasionally until tender.
Add garlic.  Stir in remaining ingredients except chicken.  Heat to boiling, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.  Stir in chicken, and cook until hot.
Serve and enjoy!


TACO SOUP

2  pounds ground beef
1  onion, chopped
2 boneless chicken breasts
1  can each black-eyed peas, lima, kidney and black beans, undrained
1  can corn
4 cans (chopped) stewed tomatos
1  can water
2  packages taco seasoning
1  package ranch dressing

  Place ground beef and onion in large kettle, and brown.  Boil chicken breasts until done and cube.  Add chicken and remaining ingredients to ground beef.  Simmer for 1 hour or in a slow cooker on low for 4 to 5 hours.
Serve with corn bread or corn chips, grated cheese and sour cream

Makes a big pot and freezes well.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

May yo be surronded by warmth and love this March.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

                                            Lift Your Spirits

You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.

Betty

Great-granddaughter, Sidney & G-grandmother Betty

This family photo is of  my great-granddaughter, Sidney.  She's so sweet!!!
Taken Christmas 2010 in Rockcastle KY.

Betty A.

Treasured Finds

Dear Friends and Family,

Please leave a note below in comments, so I will know you are here.  I'm back after a long absence due to illness.  While away, I found some new ideas that I will add.

Welcome to Belle Ayers Tea Parlor and Boutique, a blog of rambling thoughts and daily happenings in the life of Betty, who is passionate about tea, treasured finds, and genealogy.  Promise, I WON'T send you my family tree!

Please respond and let us know what you're doing.  What is your favorite tea?  Your favorite treasured find?  We will write about everything, including feathering your nest!

Have you heard?  Everyone is talking about repurposing.  While I'm driving, I always look to see what families are throwing away, and if it looks good, I have my husband, Ed put it in the car.  I'm greatly surprised at what nice pieces of furniature people discard when moving.  There is something immensely satisfying about reinventing flea market and curbside treasures.   While you're out searching for your own treasures to repurpose, stay on the lookout for mercury glass and sunburst merriors, 2 hot items.  Enjoy going to estate sales and thrift stores.  We are both busy trying to get our health issues taken care of.  People are also donating excellent home decor,
furniture, and extremely nice items to the Good Will.   

Glad to be back and I appreciate all of you super friends and families for taking the time out of your busy life to come enjoy this blog, and posting your comments.
You can contact me directly at  belleayers@aol.com
Hope you and yours had a Merry Christmas and I wish you a joyous New Year!
Hugs, Betty A.

Feathering Your Nest

Feathering Your Nest...

You are invited to post your decorating, flea finds, designs, crafts, table settings, etc.  Anything relating to feathering your nest.  We will all enjoy it!  And, Do become a follower.  The more, the merrier.

Hugs,
Betty

Cozy Book Club Sunday

Cozy Book Club Sunday...

This is the beginning of Cozy Book Club Sunday, sharing sweet memories.   What book are you giving your mom?  Fix your favorite cup of tea and join us for a relaxing on-line conversation about the book you read during the last six weeks.  Choose your book to read.  Easter...are you reading an Easter book?  June is National Rose month.  What book will you choose to read?

Suggestions:  Jane Austen novels, Pride and Prejudice, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.  Please add your suggestions.

Happy Reading,
Betty

Tea Cup Tuesday

Tea Cup Tuesday

Hello my tea cup loving friends!  I'm so excited to do my first Tea Cup Tuesday.  I feel like everything is getting back to normal after our move.  Yesterday, I took time to shop and found some lovely pink items.   I'll be showing Other colors of teacup and saucers, too!   See you here.

Have a tealightful week,
Betty

Pink Saturday

Pink Saturday...

Hello Pinkies!

This will be my first Pink Saturday and I would love for you to join me.  I think it's time to be "pink!"  We are still working to get unpacked.  Boxes are everywhere.  I am still working hard learning how to use my website.  See you here!

Hugs, Betty

On-Line Tea Shop

Twilight Rose Tea Pot






On-Line Tea Shop

What our Tea Shop to offer...

* Serving with style...Folding Tiered Server, Sugar Tongs, Tartlet Server, Teapot Teaspoons, Teapot Table Cloth Weights, The White Scroll Collection, Teapot Votive Holder, Flowering Tea Set, Bombay Teapot Collection.

* A Passion for Tea...

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.

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!

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

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

Holiday Happiness

Holiday Happiness...

     The happiest holidays

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?

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

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

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!

October Birthday Giveaway

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

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Greetings to all!!!

Martha

Robin

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

Halloween

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

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.

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/

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

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

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.