It is springtime in Vermont, and that is marked with many subtle and not-so-subtle shifts in routine. Four o'clock is no longer dusk, and as such, our tea times feel lighter, and more refreshing...compelling us onward into the now-light evening. Tea has taken on a distinctly spring-like feel, filled with pastel chocolates, citrusy delights, and a table laden with fresh flowers. As if a riot of daffodils in Tasha's garden, and the perfectly clear blue skies aren't lovely enough, Easter and April birthdays make the time seem even more exciting. Here are few recent scenes...
Though the snow is on the ground spring is near. The trees are budding against the full moon, and the days are longer. Yet spring in the hills of New England is relative. It is near, only in that it may be seen from afar, rather than not at all.
Dear Friends,
A classic poem for this beautiful time of year....
And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin' turkey-cock,
On either side of the road leading to Tasha’s house the asters are in bloom. They are the wild, New England variety, and though they are fond of roadsides, their largest colony thrives at the end of the vegetable garden. Phlox, goldenrod, Joe Pye Weed and a few hardy annuals flourish in the terraces in front of the house, while along the borders of the field the hardwoods are rapidly turning color.
So many of the good things in life take some extra care. A garden, a special meal, tea time...they all take a bit of extra time and attention out of your day. But if you do them, and do them with a bit of extra love as well, you will be greatly rewarded. The same goes for woodenware--it is a workhorse in the kitchen, constantly at the ready to do battle with thick stews, or to carefully coax beaten egg whites into a batter. But if we take a bit of extra time to take extra care with the woodenware, it shines so beautifully! A well-oiled, well-seasoned wooden spoon feels so nice in the hand, and keeping your woodenware in prime condition will help it last for decades.
We had lovely weather this year for our June Secret Gardens Tours. We welcome this weekend each year with great anticipation, looking forward to new friends, old friends, invigorating conversation, and delicious Stillwater Punch from Tasha's cookbook. Everyone gathers from afar, bringing with them the stories that drew them to Tasha. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the weekend...