Teatime (with a side of Gratitude)

I have posted in years past about the pleasures of visiting one of my favorite groups of women, the Tantalizing Ladies Tea book club. (These are the women I fictionalized as the “Ladies Tea and Knitting Society” in my Tales From Ivy Hill series.)

Teresa, Judy, Kristine, Beverly, Shari, Phyllis, Tiffany, and Emily.

But in the stressful, isolating year of 2020, this recent visit was even sweeter, especially because author-friends Michelle Griep and Erica Vetsch were there, too. The three of us showed our shiny new Christmas releases and gifts were shared all around. It was like Christmas in…October.

Congratulations to Erica (as well as Carolyn and Amanda). Today is their release day!



Beautiful autumn coasters and decorated pumpkin—just a few of the thoughtful gifts we received.

The tea (Earl Grey) and the food were delicious and the fellowship sweet.

Aren’t these adorable? Delicious, too!

And this year, more than any other, we moved past teatime politeness and shared some of our real struggles as well as joys. It was a lovely day of sisterhood and laughter, commiseration and celebration.

I am so blessed to have these women in my life. Who are you grateful for today?