TeaTime September - October 2006

A few years ago when a friend suggested I read a new and extremely popular book about a middle-aged Episcopal priest, I did just that and found that I was enthralled by the engaging book that told the story of life in a small village. As soon as I finished reading At Home in Mitford, I hurried to the local bookshop to find the next in the series. As I read book after book, I was quite charmed by the author’s work and wanted to know more about her. Here was a successful writer who had completely captivated the book scene, become a New York Times best selling author, and had done it all without resorting to foul language or steamy romance scenes. In addition, she had not been endorsed by…

Q My husband has been appointed to a high level position in Washington, D. C. I have been told we will be attending formal dinners where the “turning of the table” is important. Please explain what it means and how it affects my husband and me. A Knowing this social nuance will label you a great guest. The “turning of the table” is the responsibility of the host/hostess and the guests. The hostess talks to the guest on her right—the guest of honor—during the first course. She gently terminates her conversation and turns to the guest on her left when the second course is served, and so on with additional courses. The savvy guest will watch for this “turn” and do likewise. In actual practice, diners try to converse right and…

Here’s the Buzz Our busy little bee buddies have been nose-diving into daylilies and lantana, collecting heavenly nectar to conjure up that divine bee concoction: honey. These wonderful wares honor those bustling bees and their busywork. 1. Scrumptious Apricots For My Honey Scones from Moreish Treats are positively loaded with real apricots and honey. Moreish is a British word for something so good, you’ll want more, which perfectly describes these light and luscious teatime treats. The Twiggery, 800-979-8944. 2. Are you looking for an elegant cache for storing tasty teatime treats? The Duchess Biscuit Jar features that timeless symbol of royalty, the bee, in gleaming silver accents on a gorgeous crystal container. The jar rests atop a lustrous argent tray, making for a beautiful and classic presentation. www.aldasforever.com. 3. Begin with Incredible Cranberry Scones then slather…

Pearls of Wisdom As the last of the summer breezes is ushered out by the chill winds of autumn, we slip away to the garden for quiet reflection. Though the blooms are spent and the vivid colors paled, there is still inspiration to be found here. Fall is the perfect time to review our successes and setbacks, both in the garden and in our own lives. As the garden is preparing to renew itself, so, too, are we. And like the bulbs that are sleeping below our path, we will awake in spring, refreshed and ready, with steady steps toward our common goal: full bloom. Retreat to the garden with cups of comfort poured from a beautiful tea set patterned after one created for the Rothschild family in 1850. Featuring a…

SWEET POTATO SCONES Makes 12 scones 2¼ cups all-purpose flour ⅓ cup firmly packed brown sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt ⅓ cup butter 1 cup cooked mashed sweet potato ⅓ cup heavy cream 3 tablespoons chopped pecans 3 tablespoons shredded coconut 1 egg white, lightly beaten 1. Preheat oven to 400°. Lightly grease baking sheet. 2. In medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Using pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 3. Stir in potato and cream until soft dough forms, working mixture with hands if necessary. On lightly floured surface, roll out dough to ½-inch thickness. 4. Using 2½-inch round cutter, cut scones and place on prepared baking sheet. 5. In small bowl, combine pecans and coconut. Brush scones with lightly beaten egg white and sprinkle evenly with pecan mixture. 6. Bake…

Afternoon tea is steeped in the dictates of decorum that have long held sway over mere fashion. After all, it is not faddish to stir one’s tea without the telltale clanking of spoon against cup, it is simply polite to do so. The observance of such rules of etiquette not only creates a more cultured ambience for a tea party, it also helps both the hostess and her guests know what to expect from each other and from the experience. While a hostess gift for such an occasion is not a mandatory gesture, it is certainly a thoughtful one. And in the end, that is what lies at the root of all rules of etiquette—simple, heartfelt sentiment that expresses one’s regard for others. Caramel Pears A handmade gift is always appreciated, especially…