Easy Entertaining- Afternoon Tea

cast iron teapot.

I have the pleasure of visiting my dear friend Marilyn once a month for afternoon tea and conversation (gossip). Marilyn and I were neighbors for years and we first met one day when I answered my door to a panicked, sweet lady who had locked herself out of her house. The next thing I knew I was climbing through her kitchen window to unlock the front door. From that encounter, we became friends. Our time together is filled with laughter, love and sometimes tears. My life is enriched and blessed through this special lady. I thank God for that frantic knock on my door.
I love entertaining but Marilyn aka Malka loves it more. This lady is the queen of entertaining. She has tons of cute serving dishes to drool over. Entering her home is like walking into an art gallery with an eclectic vibe that beckons you in and embraces all your senses. We usually sit in the living area but today, we sat at the table. Bob, Marilyn’s hubby for nearly 50 years, joined us for tea. You gotta love a guy who will have tea with ladies and not say two words. He just smiles at his lovely wife as she serves us tea and treats. Here are some tips from Marilyn on entertaining.

chicken shaped plate. Too cute.

Tip- look for cute plates, cups and serving pieces at garage sales and second hand shops. Mix and match are perfect anytime.

Tip- serve nuts and fruit in a charming bowl.

Tip- keep a delicious coffee cake or sweet bread in the freezer and pull it out to serve on a minutes notice.