My Maiden Voyage

Hello, and welcome to Mary's Tea Cottage. When I was asked to give a tea at Christmas time last year, the invitations were fashioned after the book "A Cup of Christmas Tea", with a picture of the cover of the book printed on the front of the invitation. On the inside, it said the tea would be held at "Mary's Tea Cottage", so the ladies wouldn't know that it would be at my house, and would be surprised when they arrived. (Though most of them guessed!) When I saw the invitation, I was inspired to make a sign that read Mary's Tea Cottage, and that is the inspiration for the title of my blog. Having a blog is something I never dreamed of doing. After reading several blogs, and meeting some really nice people, I decided, with their encouragement, that I would give it a try.

I have to admit that until just a few months ago, I didn't know what a blog was, but because I google topics that are of interest to me, I've discovered that blogs are places that people share information. That is something I believe in. Granted, we must read other people's opinions and experiences with wisdom, but most of time, what others say is very helpful. For instance, we saved a little rat terrier from a local shelter a couple of years ago, and discovered that she suffered from "separation anxiety". We read how others solved, or attempted to solve, their dogs behavior. It saved us hundreds of dollars in training costs, and with patience and lots of love, Gracie is now able to stay home alone for several hours at a time.

I love to decorate, especially since I've discovered Cottage Style decorating, and I also love to have teas in my home. I often search the internet to find ways to decorate the table. That's how I found "Dream Mom", a mom with a disabled child, just as I have. I found several blogs that include pictures of decorating ideas, and tutorials on home projects, such as painting furniture. I found "Cindy's Romantic Home" that way, and she gave me a link to Shari's "My Cottage of Bliss". They are wonderful gals, so willing to help out, and share their expertise.

There is a picture of me and my youngest granddaughter, who is my tea and decorating buddy. We have so much in common, and enjoy the same things, that I had to include her picture on this blog. She will be thrilled when she sees it. I have several pictures of her at tea that I will share from time to time.

To be honest, I'm not sure how much I have to say that will interest anyone, or if pictures of my home decorating and teas will be inspirational to anyone, but I'm willing to put myself out there, and see what happens. So if anyone should read this blog, WELCOME! If I could welcome you into my home for a cup of tea in person, I would, but hopefully, you will feel that you've stepped into my living room to share a moment of calm, and will leave refreshed.