Tea for Eighty

As part of my volunteer duties at the Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, I donned my apron became a server at the annual fundraiser tea. The weather was perfect, and the gardens looked lovely, an ideal setting for an elegant tea.

Every detail was attended to. The eight tables, each with a different decor, were set with fine china, silver and crystal. The beautifully prepared food was an invitation to forget counting calories for the afternoon and succumb to sweet temptation.

As the guests arrived, dressed to the nines, I had a good time gawking at the elaborate hats and smiling to myself as some ladies teeter-tottered trying to navigate the soft lawn in spike heels. Their fancy outfits perfectly complimented the formality of the elaborately decorated tables. Even the teapots were exquisite!

Service began with a first course of fresh fruit, scones, and lemon curd. That was followed by tea sandwiches and mini quiches served from triple-tiered trays. Finally the sweets made a welcome appearance and were gobbled up by eager patrons.

It was a hugely successful fund raiser, and I was happy to be a part of it. Also, I was delighted to take home some left-over sandwiches and scones, which more than made up for my tired feet and aching calves.