This was my fourth year attending the tea. The first was just after Dave and I were married, in the tea room at The Grand. Since then we’ve done the buffet instead, which is a.m.a.z.i.n.g. 

 Here’s the head of the table, my fabulous mother-in-law Melanie. One of my friend’s described her to me as “the salt of the earth” before I had a chance to meet her, and that phrase still comes to mind often when I think of her. Kindest heart you can imagine, silly sense of humor, quick to be embarrassed and flush deep pink, and one of those rare women with her priorities in order. She’s wonderful.

 Next up this year was a sad empty chair for Amy, Dave’s older sister. She is an echo of her Mother in keeping important things at the top of her list. She also is a real outdoors woman and the glue of the siblings, keeping in good touch with everyone although she has been far away for far too long! We missed her dearly.

 Then I joined the crew, marrying the oldest boy in the family. You already know more about me than you need to, but let me just say that it is a special thing to fit so well into my “second” family. I love my in-laws like my parents, and feel that love returned.

 Next, meet Kate. She married the second oldest boy one summer after I joined the family. I couldn’t ask for a better partner in the journey. She has been a great example to me of a fantastic nurse, aspiring artist, creative chef, and doting mother. We exchange advice a couple times a month. And, she is the best at keeping things light and fun.

 Oh, Sarah. Newly returned missionary, newly engaged bride. She is as tender and sweet as they come, always excited about whatever small thrill might be happening in someone’s life. She showers us with appreciation when we’re around, for things like listening to her poem, getting her a drink, or just letting her sit and join the conversation! Her life seems full of hilarious moments, she is always willing to share, bringing laughter to every conversation.

 Little Rachel is the youngest, but with possibly the biggest presence and personality of all! She just returned from a sabbatical teaching English in China, and it was fun to have her back for the Holidays. She is the planner, go-getter of the family, keeping the fun rolling right along on track. There is not a dull moment when she’s around, and she’s quick to make others feel special and loved with her thoughtfulness.

 We enjoyed the fare and planned our attack strategically. One plate to taste everything, another to fill up, and a third to finish off with those sweetest of deliciousness. Omelets made to order…

 This was my tasting plate:) The cheese danish got two-thumbs up (and I’m VERY particular with cheese danishes!) Fresh fruit, cheese and asparagus was of course refreshing. I had a thing for the home fries and bacon…must be the baby! And the cheese blintz was a special treat.

 We chatted, ate, sipped cocoa, tea and water from stemware making everything feel very gourmet and celebratory. We went around the table discussing the upcoming year and everyone’s big events. This year is going to be a big one for everyone! In my case we’ve got Dave’s graduation in May, a baby coming in June, Dave’s BAR exam in July, and the first day of the rest of our lives when he begins working full-time as a patent attorney in August! Crazy!

Melanie finished off the meal with a second (or was it third?!) helping of blintzes. Delightful. As was learning that she could pack them up and take them home…from a buffet!! Leave it to The Grand to make our day! We left the meal satisfied and happy…then went to see Sarah try on her wedding gown (which is incredible). Love these girlies, and the chance to sit and enjoy them fully. Until next year!