A series of moments weaves time into the tapestry of our
lives. Most of these moments consist of mundane and regular tasks, and
then there are those special moments that weave sentiment and gratefulness into
one's soul. My parents modeled the act of giving special moments throughout my
childhood by providing evenings around the piano singing hymns in four part
harmony, or around the kitchen table playing cards with close family
friends--special meals and surprise birthday parties are the memories that make
up the threads in my tapestry.
Now that I am a mom, I appreciate in a new light the well-planned
special moments that weave through my life, and I value the same experiences
for my children. My parents live out of town and unfortunately we don't see
them as often as we would like, so when they surprised us the week of our
seventh daughter's birthday, the kids bounced off the walls with delight!
Poppy, my dad, came through the door bearing a heavy-laden, beautifully
wrapped present--and Mimi a bag of goodies. Even though it was Laura-Kate's
birthday, the rest of the kids would receive goodies as well. It is the way of
grandparents. After the little presents were dispersed among the un-birthday
children, Poppy and Mimi surprised Laura-Kate with a dainty cobalt blue
china tea service. With great excitement Laura-Kate dreamed aloud of all the
tea parties she would give with her 'favorite
gift.'
Immediately the birthday girl draped a delicate tablecloth over the
coffee table and set a tea party for four in the center of the den transforming
the area into an elegant Tea Room.
After the table was prepared she joined Poppy in the kitchen where he pulled out various
ingredients to prepare a tea party to remember. Mimi tied the frilly apron made
especially for Laura-Kate around her waist, and the cooking began. Pimento
cheese sandwiches seared in butter on the stovetop were flipped in the pan, while the birthday girl placed dollops of blackberry jam on clear glass plates.
Petite pickles were added for color. The celebration was ready.
Around the little table the party of four laughed over corny jokes and struck crazy poses for the camera. The sandwiches were eaten and sweet memories were fashioned
that Sunday afternoon.
