Happy Tuesday sweet friends. How can it be possible that Thanksgiving is only nine days away? We fast forward to Christmas so quickly that it seems Thanksgiving is always overshadowed.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)
It is the November edition of Tea On Tuesdays! Mary and I are excited to be joined by Sarah, from Hyacinths For the Soul.
You will find the links for Mary and Sarah at the bottom of this post.
I love Thanksgiving and enjoy the sweet faces of our family sitting around our dining table as we join hearts and hands and thank our Creator for His many blessings!
Sunshine Cottage is a warm and cozy spot for tea and the perfect place to take a break during the busy holiday season. I have an extra place just for you. As we prepare for Thanksgiving, I would like to ask a question I have asked before…let’s imagine you and I are sharing a cup of tea and I ask, “What are you thankful for”? I would love to read your answer in the comments. I would answer that question with, I could never be thankful enough for all the blessings from the Heavenly Father! Life, a loving family, health, a precious home, abundant food….But most importantly, for God’s amazing grace that I could never deserve or earn.
For our teatime, I am serving a London Fog Tea latte! So, what is it, you might ask. It is my favorite tea, Earl Grey, spiced with vanilla and honey and topped with steamed foamy milk!
The table and the food are very simple and don’t require much time which makes it a win during the busyness of this time of year. For the table covering, I spread a throw on the table (no ironing involved). My often used American Atelier ‘Baroque’ dinner plates and Royal Stafford turkey salad plates with an acorn border are perfect for Thanksgiving! April Cornell ‘antique’ napkins are a heritage print returning from their archives.
“O Lord that lends me life, lend me a heart replete with thankfulness.”
~ William Shakespeare
Soon the autumn tree will be changed to Christmas!
This cute ‘Happy Thanksgiving’ bird was a birthday gift from my darling six year old granddaughter, EK. The grands use their own money they receive from doing their chores to buy us presents. Either Mommy or Daddy takes them shopping at the dollar store and they take their time choosing thoughtful presents. There have been comical moments when we have opened our gifts. I will never forget when three year old EM was so excited for Pawpaw (my Daddy) to open her gift at Christmas. It was just what he needed, a nerf gun. He got the biggest laugh over it as we all did.
Sweets are my favorites for teatime. Our excellent local bakery offers these delicious butterfly confections which I love. But remember I have often said, “I have never met a dessert that I didn’t like! Macarons are the perfect small bite of deliciousness!
The garden and the gardeners are resting…a hard freeze killed all remaining flowers. But who says flowers have to be the centerpiece, why not velvet pumpkins?
Late fall and winter provide dancing light and shadows over my small table in the cottage!
“Counting is a mathematical process where we are typically using addition. Perhaps when we consider counting our blessings, multiplication should be incorporated!”
~Butch Richardson
Petite tea sandwiches of mesquite-smoked turkey and cheddar cheese are served on an ‘always grateful’ plate. I must be honest and tell you I usually skip the savories in favor of the sweets! However, Butch loves both!
“I think that it is a better thing than Thanksgiving: thanks-living. How is this to be done? By a general cheerfulness of manner, by an obedience to the command of Him by whose mercy we live, by a perpetual, constant delighting of ourselves in the Lord, and by a submission of our desires to His will.”
~Charles Spurgeon
Mary and Sarah welcome you to their teatime! You will be glad you visited both of these talented and gracious ladies!
Mary ~ Home Is Where the Boat Is
Sarah ~ Hyacinths For The Soul
Thank you for your visit and gracious comments.
Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving!!
Linking with: Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Life and Linda
Good morning Pam, I’d love to join you for some conversation while enjoying a London Fog Tea Latte and treats! Your Sunshine Cottage is such a cozy setting with the twinkling lights of your autumn tree and sunlight highlighting your table. Your ‘Happy Thanksgiving’ and birthday bird from EK is adorable! I had to chuckle about the nerf gun gift from EM to your dad. I love the bowl of your pumpkins as a centerpiece, as well as your other autumnal touches. . .Royal Stafford turkey plates (my favorites!) pumpkin pillow, cozy throws and ‘always grateful’ plate filled with tea sandwiches. I’m thankful for our friendship and that we’re able to share a cup of tea, even if it is online instead of in person. I love Charles Spurgeon’s quote about ‘thanks-living’! Wishing you a wonderful week ahead. 🦃🍂🧡
Thank you, Mary! I am also thankful for our friendship and sharing our love for so many of the same things…dishes, flowers, gardening, collecting, and many more!
Precious Pam, I needed to wake to this today (after my beautiful devotion). These photos are amazing with the shadows and lights coming in through the window of Sunshine Cottage!
I wish I could sip the London Fog Latte with you. I’d share the same things in which I’m
Grateful!
Happy belated birthday 🎉! What a precious gift! I giggled at the Nerf gun!
I love Butch’s quote ~ multiplying blessings indeed! And Spurgeon’s “thanks-living”!
I love the savory and sweet~ and actually, something odd~ after I finish a sweet, I like to end with savory on my palate! Although it seems I crave sweets more now than I ever have before.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.
Without going into too much detail, seeing you today is a Godsend! I love how you make the world around you~ and to all of us~ more beautiful!
I love you dearly and pray for all of you daily! 💚💚 🍂 🍁 🎶 🤗🥰🙏🙏🙏🦃🦃
Thank you dear one. I am thankful that through blogging we became friends. You are a treasure and I pray for you daily❤️🙏🏻
You’re welcome, Pam. I’m so thankful for you. 💚🙏💚 you’re a treasure to me too.
Oh Pam, I want to be there right now! That table is so warm and inviting, the sun shining through, all the delicious treats and beautiful setting. There is so much for which to be grateful. For me, that includes family (especially Rick and of course Lizzie) and dear supportive friends, good health insurance, the very fact that I have a warm home and enough to eat and feel safe. I look at the world around me and realize how privileged I am and the responsibility I have. Enough to spare and give.
Jeanie, we would have so much to talk about if you could join me. Yes to enough to spare and give!
Thanks-living is a reminder that each moment is a gift from our loving Heavenly Father. It is also the door to celebration Of our Lord JesusChrist. To be able to celebrate both God sent. Your table today is so cozy set in the sunshine cottage and sun poring in as you and Butch enjoy the Earl Grey “fog” tea. It’s just right! I’m with you in that I prefer the sweet rather than savory. PawPaw’s nerf gun made me smile. Grandchildren think of the best presents!
Alice, I am thankful that we met through our blog posts. Butch and I appreciate your friendship and your prayers!
Good morning, Pam. Hands down, I am grateful for the gift of family. My parents did a wonderful job of raising us all in a faith-based home, and the traditions are wonderful memories to live over and over again as the generations grow.
Your teatime looks super cozy. I love the sunlight in the cottage this time of year and through winter. Do you froth your milk with a hand tool? It sounds like a good recipe to recreate.
Happy Tuesday!
Thank you Rita for sharing those special memories to be thankful for. I am thankful for your friendship!
Pam, what a sun kissed post! It brings me joy to awake to your beautiful images and words. The sweet and savory treats, along with that tasty, frothy tea latte. I always delight in sitting with you in the Sunshine Cottage, even though it’s simply within my imagination. How fortunate I am to have shared your friendship across the miles all these years. This season of gratitude is and has always been my favorite. Gratitude is the key to keep one focused and grounded. I’ve learned that on an entirely new level in the past 3 years without Monnie by my side, and this past year without my sister close at hand. If not for gratitude of the 47 amazing years side by side with Monnie, and a life time of closeness with my sister, I could not face each day. My family and circle of friends keep me grateful each and everyday. All that is happening in the world around us, gives me daily pause to be thankful for the multitude of blessings that have surrounded me throughout my life. Nature! I’m also most grateful for the calm and comfort that wildlife, flowers, and the beauty of the landscapes bring to our everyday. I think it is important to acknowledge gratefulness. Enjoy your family, your friends, your home, and all that God has created. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you Sarah for your sweet sentiments and for the friendship through the years! You are an inspiration and a lovely example of grace! Thinking of you during the Thanksgiving season without your Monnie and beloved sister!
Good morning, Pam, and I’d love to sit at your table and enjoy savory and sweet treats. Your little fall birdie from your granddaughter is just the cutest and the nerf gun gift for Pawpaw sure made me chuckle. I would tell you that I’m thankful for my family, my friends, for my cozy home, my beloved husband who I was blessed with 43 years of marriage, and for my Faith. Let’s all enjoy Thanks-Living and our many blessings.
Thank you Kitty for sharing your blessings with me! God is faithful my friend!
Good Morning Pam. What a cute story about the nerf gun and your daddy. Sweet! Terry and I always say we are not rich in money but we are rich in God’s blessing of our beautiful two daughters and their mates and our three grandchildren. I was not to have children do to some medical issues but God over road the doctors voices and blessed me with two beautiful daughters that are now two beautiful moms, wives and just beautiful human beings in this world. Terry and I are so thankful for having our family near to see them often and that we have been blessed with 45 years together so far. Hoping he will bless us with many more years together. In this crazy world of blogging I feel God has put all of us in each other’s paths through blogging and we have all been able to bond and become friends. If it were not for our blogs we would have never met. Amazing how blessings come to us through him.
Have a beautiful start to the new week. Hugs. Kris
Thank you Kris for sharing God’s blessings in your life! I am so thankful that we became friend through blogging.
GOD’S AMAZING LOVE 🙏🏻💕
Amen!
I’m grateful for you, Pam, and your God-given talents in creating a warm and beautiful home throughout the year. Your Thanksgiving tablescape is stunning. I love that the grandchildren are given funds for completing tasks and then given the opportunity to purchase fun items! 💖💖💖
Mary, you are so sweet. Thank you for the encouragement you bring in your comments and your beautiful blog 🩷
Oh Pam…where to begin. I love your Sunshine Cottage decor and the story of the nerf gun. What sweet memories you have and your tea time looks and sounds so good. I would love to share the table with you.
On Thankfulness…First, I love the Maya Angelou quote: “Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.” and “Thanks-Living” ….perfect! I read Spurgeon regularly and quote him often in teaching my Bible Study group.
There is so much that I am thankful for….the country that we live in, the roof over our head, the food on our table, freedom to worship, freedom of speech, my love of music, our Pastor and church family, surviving Pancreatic Cancer, my family and friends such as you and all the other bloggers that have shared and prayed for and with me. I have been called a miracle or some say I am such a strong person ….or how “lucky” I am….luck had nothing to do with it….and none of it is from me. I am reminded of the song “The Tribute” by Sandi Patty with lyrics that speak my heart. I lay it all …my Love and my Gratitude for each day at the cross at Calvary.
“How can I say thanks
For the things You have done for me?
Things so undeserved
And yet You give to prove Your love for me;
The voices of a million angels
Could not express my gratitude
All that I am and ever hope to be
I owe it all to Thee
To God be the glory
To God be the glory
To God be the glory
For the things He has done
With His blood He has saved me
With His power He has raised me;
To God be the glory
For the things He has done
Just let me live my life
And let it be pleasing, Lord, to Thee
And should I gain any praise
Let it go to Calvary”
Blessings my dear sister in Christ…to you and yours this Thanksgiving Season.
Yes, dear friend you are a miracle! No luck involved, but the Mighty Healing Hand of God! Thank you for sharing the goodness of God. I haven’t thought of that song in a long time, but I always loved it! I am so thankful for your friendship, Kari!
Good morning Pam,
I am so greatful for this Tea Party with you this morning…the sunshine on your beautiful autumnal table, the delicious treats, the stories…I so love the stories…and the sweet little gift from your thoughtful granddaughter made me smile. I’m greatful for my sweet family, my fun friends, the creative people in my life (like you) who are such an inspiration…the scriptures and quotes that you share always find my heart. I’m greatful for God’s extraordinary creation and the beauty it holds and His patience.
Thank you for bringing such joy to us, I am truly greatful.
Thank you, Sue for sharing God’s blessings in your life! Thank you for your friendship and sweet comments my friend!
A throw as a tablecloth! Once again, you amaze me with your creativity when it comes to tablescapes, Pam! Your mention of no ironing reminded me of one Thanksgiving years ago when we were hosting. My parents-in-law were visiting from out-of-state, and Mom asked what she could do to help. I gave her the long and lovely linen tablecloth she’d handed down to me several years before and asked if she would iron it. “Sure,” she graciously replied. Once the job was done she confided (with a twinkle in her eye), “You know, one of the reasons I gave you this tablecloth was so I wouldn’t have to iron it anymore!”
Thank you dearest Nancy! That is a fun story of your mother-in-law and the linen tablecloth. Thank you for sharing!
Good afternoon, sweet Pam.
I enjoyed your tea latte. I make them often. I love the addition of cold foam froth. It’s a treat!
I enjoy seeing your fall tree in the background. Your table is so beautiful in the dappled light. And your velvet pumpkins were the perfect touch.
I am so thankful for our virtual friendship!
And I am grateful for all the blessings God has given me.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Thank you Nancy and I am thankful for our friendship even if it is virtual. Hopefully one day we shall meet in person!
I agree with Kari. I can never thank GOD enough for all he has done for me! I’m a walking miracle because of GOD!!!
Amen Nancy! He is faithful!!
Pam, Your Sunshine Cottage is sunny, warm and inviting. The tea table is beautiful and the treats look delicious. I am thankful for all the things that you mentioned. God has been so good to all of us! He provides everything we need plus so much more! What Paw Paw doesn’t need a nerf gun? 🤣 That was a very thoughtful gift from a 3 year old. I love the little birdie. Your grands are precious! Happy Thanksgiving! Clara❤️
Thank you, Clara! Yes, God has been so good to us. The very air we breathe is His gift! Sending love ❤️
Sunshine Cottage looks like the most perfect spot to enjoy a Thanksgiving tea. The sunlight dancing around the room creates such a magical setting. Your tea table looks beautiful, and London Fogs are my favorite! The sweet treats look delicious. Sweet friend, I have so much to be thankful for. I agree with you that God’s grace is the most important followed by a loving family, the opportunity to be a wife and mother, a home that provides warmth and shelter, my health, and plenty to eat. I hope you have a blessed week, dear friend!
Thank you Shannon. I have missed you, and I hope all is well. I am thankful for your friendship and that we met through blogging!
Dearest Pam, there is so much to be thankful for, the list would take many pages. The love of Our Father, my dear husband, darling sister, my beloved parents, my sweet pets, good friends, my health, my home, on and on. And you and Butch also would be on the list, your friendship and prayers are yet another blessing. Your table of tea and goodies looks amazing, wish we could sit and chat.
Thank you for sharing some of your blessings, my friend! We are so thankful for your friendship over the years, Roxanne!
What a wonderful autumn tea, would love to sit in the cottage and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the warmth of friends. I am grateful everyday for the blessing of family and friends, both in person and in blogland. I am thankful for our home and food on our table. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Butch, and all your family.
Thanks so much Carole. It would be fun for you to join me for tea. Thank you for sharing your blessings!
Basking in the glow of the kindred spirits circled around your welcoming
tea table of nourishment.
I am so gratefuly5 to the
Richardsons for creating such an atmosphere of
abiding love. Above all,
I am humbled and blessed
by His Presence so evident
here and woven throughout the garland of
friendship shared by us all.
Thanksgiving, indeed.
Thank you dearest Mary. We are most grateful for you! Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving!
A delightful tea party for two Pam. I’ll have to try the London Fog tea latte, is it your own creation?
I love that quote by C. Spurgeon especially the thanks-living! I may borrow that word! ☺️
Blessings to you, Jennifer
Thank you Jennifer! The London Fog tea is not my creation. There are many recipes on Pinterest. I think you would love it!
Oh, I’ll have to look it up, it sounds delicious! I’m sure I’ll enjoy it. 😊
Pam, a beautiful tea time to enjoy and be grateful for family and a lovely life. Sunshine cottage looks so warm and cozy. Happy upcoming Thanksgiving..🍁🦃
Thank you Linda. Happy Thanksgiving!
Pam, such a lovely tea table for two in the dappled sunlight of the Sunshine Cottage! A throw is the perfect choice for your cozy theme, and the tea and goodies look so delicious. I love those Royal Stafford turkey salads on the American Atelier Baroque plates and the AC napkins are lovely. Such sweet stories and gifts from the grands and the autumn tree in the background is beautiful. So much to be thankful for that I would need a notebook but at the top are my family, home, and security. I am equally grateful for my friends including all the lovely ladies like yourself that I have met in blogland through our shared love of tablescaping. And I can’t forget my sweet four-legged friends to which we recently adopted a third from the shelter. Thank you dearest Pam for our friendship – even if virtual it is still precious, and I wish you and your family the warmest and most blessed Thanksgiving!
Thank you Kim for your sweet comments. Thank you for sharing your blessings! I am grateful for your blogging friendship!
Oh Thanksgiving tea! At the Sunshine Cottage! All those yummy goodies to beautifully displayed!
I was hoping for a Sunshine Cottage post as I came your way and as ever, this one did not disappoint.
Thanksgiving blessings to you, friend. God is so very good.
Amen, yes he is!
Thank you Linda. I am happy you dropped in for tea!
The London Fog tea sounds absolutely amazing! I’m sipping on a cup of coffee as I enjoy getting caught up on your posts, and it is sweetened with honey, also. Lots of cream and honey is my favorite, so I think I would enjoy your favorite drink very much! What I am most thankful for is dear Jesus, His death and sacrifice on the cross, and my precious husband and son. I agree with Butch. My blessings have not just been added, they have been multiplied – far more than I will ever deserve! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Ours was abundantly blessed, and along with Spurgeon, it is thanksliving for me! Every single day. God is SO good to me.