Each year, we have invited friends to join us, and it’s always been fun. When we are there, it feels like we are getting away with something…like a wonderful secret only a few people know about. It truly is an afternoon of delight.
Here are my mom and Gabrielle in 2006 and 2007:
Here are a few pictures from this year. It truly was an extra-blessed day! The little blessings…like no traffic on the way there…and a great table. And the big blessings….like wonderful, comfortable company (family and friends) to be together with us…like the opportunity the three little ladies had to meet Cindy McCain. Yes, Cindy McCain (wife of 2008 Republican Presidential Candidate, John McCain) who happened to be dining in the hotel with her younger son. (I’ll blog more about this later this week…and no I don’t have pictures because I was unaware of the encounter that my sister, Anne, graciously initiated. Lucille and I were outside retrieving our cars from the valet while my mom, sister and the young ladies were chatting with Cindy. And Heather and her mom, Ruth, had the opportunity to meet the McCains’ youngest son. So exciting for them! We thank the Lord for these special enounters that had His handprints all over them!)
Gabrielle with her friends Leigha and Emily
My friend Lucille and her daughter, Leigha,
My sister, Anne, (Aunt Anne to Joshua & Gabrielle) joined us this year.
Me, Gabrielle, Nan Nan, Aunt Anne
Chocolate-covered strawberry and other sweet treats!
Gabrielle and Nan Nan enjoying this Christmas tea tradition.
A favorite part for the little ladies.
And the icing on the scone…Alice in Wonderland
We are still enjoying the warm afterglow of yesterday’s planned splurge and special afternoon of Tea with Alice in Wonderland at The Four Seasons. This nostalgic Christmas tradition lingers in our hearts so much so that we already start planning and saving for next year.
If you live in the area, we recommend this special treat! And my dear friends who are reading this and think you’d enjoy this, you are invited and welcome any time! (I make the reservations in October on the designated day, so just mention it to me!)
Would you care for some tea? What nostalgic traditions do you enjoy? We’d love to hear!
What a very special time and a lovely Christmas tradition. I so enjoyed seeing all your pictures – thank you for sharing so many with us. It looks like a delightful event!
Blessings,
Joy
Sounds and looks like a wonderful tradition!
I’m so glad you got to spend some quality time with Heather and Emily too. I’m sure Ms. Emily loved it!
Miss you all – hugs and love!
Jill
I didn’t even realize until the end that as I was reading the nutcracker was playing! Then it all kind of zooming in together and my brain engaged. I LOVE your blog!
Glad you had such a wonderful time. I’m jealous about the Kelly Ripa thing. 🙂
What a wonderful tradition! It looks like so much fun! Thanks for sharing that.
Oh Sharon, what wonderful memories! Sometimes, the most precious gifts (time with loved ones) just don’t contain price tags. Long after the sweaters are outgrown and the games lose their pieces your sweet daughter will remember the effort you lovingly put into this adventure every year. I pray many more blessings on you and your family this holiday season.
What a wonderful tradition you have here! I loved the pictures and reading all about it. Glad I stopped by today.
Sonya
**off topic**
Did you get my email regarding “Live” at your sloan home email address?