Afternoon Tea and Amaretti Cookies

Welcome to Over a Cup of Tea With Celia M.

When I started blogging almost 4 years ago I couldn't have imagined the many wonderful and positive ways that this virtual world we call BlogLand would have on my journey of healing and re-discovering (creating) the new me. Meeting wonderful new people, (strangers) who some how were able to encourage and inspire me when friends and family sometimes just didn't know how has been a beautiful blessing - along my journey. 

One of these wonderful ladies has been Mariette author of the blog Mariette's Back to Basics. Perhaps it was her own journey in facing a life changing health challenge that she understood and related to my journey or perhaps it was just her caring personality. Over time I came to learn that she also had an on-line boutique also called Mariette's Back to Basics. Over time we have develop a true friendship and hope one day to meet in person.

For today's tea I'm steeping Egyptian Licorice from Yogi teas and using this garden mug - dreaming of spring after so much snow and cold temps.

To go with our tea I'm sharing with you some beyond delicious  homemade amaretti cookies, which Mariette bakes with love - and included in a wonderful care package she sent me  along with some scrumptious chocolate and a darling vintage book on French Tea...an amazing read. Along with all the goodies ... I received a handwritten note that I will treasure. Mariette thank you for your generosity and inspiration.

Tea was set in the kitchen at our country home ...

Help yourself to an amaretti cookie ... (they do not last long around here).

And just a little furbaby cuteness to get your day going ... Dolce was making sure he came for a car ride to the market.

Wishing you a beautiful blessed week...

P.S. if you have not stopped by Mariette's Back to Basics blog - you are missing out on some fabulous inspiration. And Mariette's Back to Basics Boutique is a fabulous place to find the most elegant treasurers for gifting and for yourself too! (I know I have found many great finds).

Hugs and Blessings,


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Sharing this post with:  Mosaic Monday ~  Inspire Me Tuesday ~  A Return to Loveliness ~  Antiques and Teacups for Tuesday Cuppa Tea ~ Rose Chintz Cottage for Tea time Tuesday ~ Artful Affirmations and Martha's favorites for Teacup Tuesday ~ 

A Little thing called Blogging...

UPDATE::: This is why Blogging  Friends are REAL!!!
I came to know of Melynda aka Craziness Abounds who writes a great blog Crazy World, through my dear friend Carol author of the blog Facing 50 with Humour.  Melynda has been losing her sight. She has undergone various treatments to try and retain her remaining [failing] eyesight. Despite this detour in her life, her spirit remains determined and positive. 


Some of her dearest friends unbeknownst to her, have put together and published a book of her best blog posts. All proceeds of the book sale will be sent to Melynda so she can continue treatment and get some assistance to allow her to continue enjoying life. To read more on Melynda and how this project got started you can visit Elisabeth author of the blog The Crazy Life of a Writing Mom and the master mind of this wonderful and thoughtful project.


You can buy Melynda's book on Amazon, for kindle, and on Smashwords!  


March 1st 2010 I sat in front of my computer screen frustrated as I tried to maneuver my way through menus that made no sense to me ~ Blogging was completely foreign to me. Not to mention [remembering] figuring out how to turn the computer on, was a huge accomplishment at that time, for me.
I remember thinking, this will get me out of doing scrap-booking as therapy and it's more interesting than other exercises I had been doing in speech therapy.  And with that I clicked "POST".

As, I explored this new [to me] medium I discovered some blogs and noticed some had comments at the end of their posts. Mine,- nada, zero, zilch! But that was OK the blogs I had discovered where fancy, and spoke of fashion, fun, entertainment ~ these people had really exciting lives and things to write about. Mine, was dull and the topic certainly not interesting reading~ after all who wants to read about how someone no longer really enjoys life.

We were about to go on our first vacation since my accident (almost 4 years earlier) and I was thinking that I really had nothing to say, not to mention the time it was taking for me to actually write a post [that made sense]. I was actually thinking about giving up on blogging. Then, while away I received 2 comments that would change that and make me look at blogging as a way to help others deal with challenges, they or a loved one were facing.  Barry and Sandy, I will be forever grateful that our paths crossed ... your words of encouragement on those comments gave be the strength to get a voice! 

Two years ago I had no idea what Blogger or blogging was. 

Today, I thank God and count my blessings for all the wonderful friends [you all know who you are] that the universe has sent my way via this thing called Blogging!!

Without your friendship, encouragement, and at times butt kicking emails AND most of all your great Posts that have gotten be out of from under the covers on some days [to see how each of you is doing], Because

I don't think I would be at the stage of recovery I am at, if it were not for some of you!

I'm still trying to figure out this blogging thing and what my voice really is here. But I hope along the way my writing [and I], has some how helped others; if with only a listening ear; a word of understanding or encouragement in a comment.

I am expecting to be back to regular posting and blog visits next week!
And with a great give away to help celebrate My 2 years in BlogLand...

Make YOUR vote count!! I need YOUR HELP

In BlogLand we come across many wonderful and inspiring blogs one of those blogs for me is Riley's Smile. I have been following Stacie and her wonderful warm and from the heart written posts. Riley is incredible and his life and that of his loving family is an inspiration to all whose life they touch (via virtual or in person).

When I stopped in for my visit today and read Stacie's post about The Ugliest Blog Contest... I knew this was something that my friends in BlogLand could help with!! NO... Riley's Smile is not an ugly blog ... but Stacie feels that the blog "could use a little professional help to achieve desired impact and bring in a larger audience", So if winning The Ugliest Blog contest helps her ... Let's all VOTE!! When you get to the voting page ... you can scroll down to where the thumbnails are ... click on the STAR VOTE - under Riley's Smile linky button - to cast your vote!! Clicking on the actual Riley's Smile button will take you to Stacie's blog and no vote is cast. ( Yes, I found out by trial error ..lol)

I'm asking for your help , because I believe that Stacie's and Riley's story is one that will help so many. Also this will hopefully expose Riley's Smile to new readers... Thank you for your friendship and support of Riley's Smile.

CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR VOTE                      CLICK HERE TO VISIT RILEY"S SMILE Blog

Voting Ends February 10/12

image via Riley's Smile 

ABOUT Riley's Smile ... From Stacie's About section.

About: Riley's smile graces me every day now. His smile wasn't always there and this is my chronicle of finding his smile and those of my entire family along the way. I share my life with my husband, John, and two beautiful sons, Riley and Ronan. I share our story with the intention of coming to my own peace with all the past eight years has brought us. I also hope that in sharing, others experiencing special needs may gain their own insights and peace. 

Thank you.

February Tea Trolley

Welcome to all my Afternoon Tea friends and special welcome to all the new friends who have visited; left wonderful comments and are now following Falling Off A High Heeled Life!!

While it's cold outside and the gardens are still covered in a blanket of white snow; it's wonderful to be into February. With the arrival of February also comes the colourful displays of flowers at our local markets. Potted tulips,  daffodils , join the fresh cut-flowers with a promise that spring is getting closer.

A new month means the tea trolley in my writing area also changes.

February being the month most celebrated by love I've decided to stay with the reds.

How lovely are these?

Paris is known world wide as the city of romance and love, so I added a little memento of my trip last year with an Eiffel Tower souvenir. A view from above. 

And a view from the ground....

Our teacup sits proudly on top of Shakespeare & Love Sonnets book and below that Emily Dickinson Poems.  These are both perfect for curling up with a cup of tea during a cold winter's afternoon. Shakespeare's sonnets are some of the finest and most graceful expressions of love and devotion to come from the Elizabethan age.

The teapot I have chosen for the trolley this month is a plain white one. But don't let it's simplicity deceive you. Did you notice ... wait there is something missing!!!  

Ahh .. there it is ... Did you notice what was missing? How could one not have chocolates during this wonderful month of love!!!

Ok .. now that we have chocolates; flowers; a symbol of the most romantic city; some wonderful reading material to inspire us in dreams of love; a pot of tea brewing... we can get back to our teacup. This little darling comes to us all the way from Poland. I love the raised white detail that wraps around the  cup and saucer. The rose buds really are a wonderful sight ...during these cold, dark days of winter. The bottom of the teacup is stamped with WALBRZYCH  made in Poland. 

What's that? You want to see the teapot again? ... sure...

Here it is ... I love the design of the handle ... the scalloped base, the detail around the opening of the pot and the overall shape of the body. Looks like the tea is ready ... 

Oh .. you noticed the cookies! 

Well ... since you are such a dear BlogLand friend I am happy to share ONE with you. 

You see they were a delightful surprise sent to ME us, from our dear friend Mariette. The Amaretti Hearts are made with the finest ingredients and with the love and care that can only be tasted in home baked goodness. 

Mariette has the wonderful blog  Mariette's Back to Basics where she shares delightful photos of her beautiful gardens [ Information on booking her gorgeous gardens for a special event or garden tour can be found here.]  and history of items from a era when simplicity and hand crafted items were truly appreciated. In her Mariette's Back to Basics Boutique you will find the most lovely treasures  from around the world. 

This lovely card with a touching note accompanied  MY our yummy treats, and I thought it was a perfect addition to the February Tea Trolley ... can you see the darling little Cherubs?

Ok .. how about now .. without the flash...

A delightful setting to inspire my writing through the month of February...

Mariette thank you for your thoughtfulness;words of encouragement, friendship and making February afternoon tea a little sweeter.

 Mr. G. has been enjoying the Amaretti Hearts with his morning espresso.

Please stay awhile and enjoy your tea ...

For more fabulous afternoon  tea inspirations, please visit these wonderful hostesses...
Tea Time Tuesday ~ with Sandi 
Tea Time with Bernideen's

Tea Party Tuesday ~ with Trish

Martha's & Terri's Tea Time Tuesday

Teacup Thursdays

Antiques And Teacups

For some wonderful vignette inspirations visit Marty for   Table Top Tuesday

Semi Wordless Wednesday with Flip Flops & Pearls

Tablescape Thursdays ~ with Susan

Wonderful Boutiques in BlogLand ...

With December a day away and Christmas just around the corner, I wanted to share with you some of the fabulous boutiques that are owned by some of BlogLand's very own citizens. Who would not love to find a gift from one of these boutiques, under the tree.

DOLCE DREAMS

Images Via Dolce Dreams

These are an absolute must have for anyone on your list that needs a little "ME" time. I use my daily, for afternoon escapes. The lovely lavender scent is calming and helps you to drift off for those much needed re-energizing moments. Nathalie's love for creating and attention to detail is evident in each piece, from creation to gift giving presentation. Visit Dolce Dreams Boutique .

Castles Crowns and Cottages

Images Via Castle Crowns and Cottages

If you have been a reader of Casles Crowns and Cottages, you already know that Anita is sharing here wonderful creative talent with the world. The original art work is breath taking! I am fortunate to have a bal masque ~ admit one book mark (which I won in a giveaway) ~ I keep it on my bulletin board to remind me all dreams are possible .. just Believe!! Visit Castles Crowns and Cottages Boutique .

FIFI FLOWERS

Images Via Fifi Flowers

To be able to own a piece of original art is priceless! From original art pieces , frameable post cards, prints and adorable personalized book marks, Fifi Flowers has it all. I have a beautiful Paris inspired print that takes me back to my visits to the magical city of lights. Visit Fifi Flowers Boutique .

BONJOUR ROMANCE

Images Via Belle Inspiration

You know Mimi from her blog Bonjour Romance and her fabulous inspiring on-line magazine Belle Inspiration. But, did you know Belle also has a wonderful boutique? From embossed note cards, journals, and surprise Paris Brocate gift packs to of course subscriptions to Belle Inspiration magazine. I look forward to each issue of my subscription. Put a little Oh La La in yours or someone's day visit Belle Inspiration Boutique .

Mariette's Back to Basics

Images Via Mariette's Back to Basics

There are no words to describe Mariette's ability to bring the most original and beautiful pieces to her boutique. Each time I visit, there are many things that I would love to add to my home. From French Christofle silver, Limoges, Lampe Berger,  and other stunning pieces from an era where quality meant something! to her fabulous selection of Giovanni Raspini , Italian silver charms and pieces; you will discover something fabulous!! Visit Mariette's Back to Basics Boutique .

Luxuria Decadence For Divas

Images Via Luxuria

I have been admiring the wonderful artisans Vanessa has brought together in one place. I have a few pieces on my Wish list ... for original decadence this is the place where your eyes will be delighted! Visit Luxuria Decadence For Divas Boutique .

The Life of a Suburban Princess

Images Via Royal Ribbons

The Suburban Princess is helping us to add the royal touch to our gift giving with  custom personalized ribbon. I have used Royal Ribbons for adding a little extra to touches to hostess guest gifts and to gifts for little one's with their name printed on ribbon. Lots of colour ribbon colours, size and fonts to choose from.You can order as little as a yard or as much yardage as you require. Visit Royal Ribbons Boutique.

BlogLand Boutiques ~ Heard at the Tea Party ...

BlogLand's citizens are not only inspiring, supportive, witty, compassionate but also very creative and enterprising. Recently the Tea Girls were all a buzz about some fabulous finds by High Heeled Life and would no give up until they too were in the know about these boutiques.

Discovered a little over a year ago, French Bleu Vintage has been a regular source for wonderful vintage finds among the many treasures acquired from here, this little box is a delight.

Sorry .. having problems with my camera and cannot access photo.

The box is a vanity gold lace scroll bottom with a glass lid , which sits perfectly on my bathroom counter as keeper of face clothes. I will update this post, soon as I figure out what's wrong with camera.

The Blogger behind FRENCH BLEU VINTAGE Boutique is Dee whose blog by the same name is a wonderful stop on visits through BlogLand . Be sure to stop by and say hello FRENCH BLEU VINTAGE Blog

If you appreciate beautiful things DOLCE DREAMS Boutique is a must visit. When HHL Brother and Sister-in-Law welcomed baby Matthew into the world, there was no doubt he was going to be gifted one of the gorgeous baby quilts from Dolce Dream Boutique. When the quilt arrived it was gift wrapped in the most sweet tissue adorned with little Angels. But the contents was beyond magical, you can see the care, love and pride that went into every detail of this ustom hand-embroidered treasure.

( this is not the actual quilt. Though HHL brother and SIL know they are receiving one they do not know what it looks like - they have to wait till the next visit.) ~ image via Dolce Dreams

Need a few minutes of relaxation? Then you'll want to have one of the Lavender Eye Pillows with custom embroidering on hand (actually over your eyes). I cannot begin to express the wonderful added peace one of these adds to a a few minutes of closed eye relaxation...

Thank you Nathalie ... it is wonderful!!!

DOLCE DREAMS Blog is written by Nathalie and on a visit you will certainly be inspired by the fabulous images and wonderful discoveries she shares.

MARIETTE'S BACK to BASCS Boutique is the place to go to for all things divine and for adding a little luxury to life, while keeping it simple and elegant. Each item is listed with some information about its history. As you make your way through this boutique you will become aware of the thought and consideration that has been given to each item selected for the boutique, everything has a purpose. A fabulous source for  French items such as Christofle Silverware; Limgoes porcelaine; Giovanni Raspini Charms & Co Italy~ silver 925/000 items and Lampe Berger (HHL favourite).

Rare, Cherub Cameo Angelot lampe 

Since becoming the proud owner of this beautiful item, visits to this boutique have not disappointed. As Mr. G has said "I think you have found a personal shopper in Mariette. Each item is equally unique and beautiful, please leave some for other people."

For all things, travel, garden, etiquette, art of penning a letter you will not be disappointed with a visit to MARIETTE'S BACK to BASICS Blog

Personal gifting is taken up a step by the recent opening of ROYAL RIBBONS Boutique. Image receiving a gift with a ribbon that has your name on it!! How extra special would you feel!! or if you are entertaining sending your guests home with a little Friendship gift that has a ribbon imprinted with the celebrated occasion.

Chocolate Canadian Dollar coins, wrapped and secured in place with Royal Ribbon personalized ribbon to celebrate Canada Day BBQ.

The creative mastermind behind this wonderful idea is blogger Suburban Princess who writes THE LIFE of a SUBURBAN PRINCESS Blog. For wonderful musings of living in a small town, while trying to hold on to her city ways, you will be delighted with each post. 

What wonderful shopping spots have you discovered 

through BlogLand? Please share...

On the next - HEARD at the TEA Party .... 10 Reasons to visit Paris ...