As I put away my last china cup I look at them and see the beauty and individuality of each and every one. That is how it is with life, but like a teacup, it can be cracked, chipped and sometimes broken. As St Paul says, “We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed.” We can be like that also if we have friends, family and faith.

Although all different to look at cups are open to receive and have the same purpose — to hold tea. There again an analogy to life, we’re all different but are called to the same purpose — to love one another. So it was for the Third Annual Daffodil Tea, everyone was open, some to a new experience. We all had a common purpose to have fun and help others have hope for a future through our fundraising. Our chips and cracks were filled by the care of others and laughter. Those that had been broken were renewed and restored during that short time.

The children were so thrilled by the small things, like having a tiny tea cup and tiny cakes, just their size. Others just enjoyed being served. Our nonagenarian, Sadie, returned once again. She’s 98 years young now. When she received her “Save the date” postcard in February she made sure her daughter marked it on the calendar. Sadie met Treeva, 85, who was there with her daughter and they made a date to meet at next year’s tea. The stories continue. Two senior ladies were overheard to say “This is the best value for five dollars that I have had in years. We must invite our friends next year.”

The grand total for 2012 is $8,050 which was raised through the silent auction, the sale of hand made goods, donations, and the Firstgiving online site. The online giving site closed on June 7, Ron’s birthday. Kenneth always came home for his Dad’s birthday.

Yes it was a financial success but more than a financial success was the fellowship that was shared and the joy people experienced for those two hours. All troubles, pain, heartache and concerns were forgotten. The flower arrangements brought the promise of Spring into the room and the silver teapots reflected happy faces.

I am so grateful to EACH and EVERYONE who worked at, donated and attended the tea. It was an AMAZING day.

We have already started planning for next year with some fun additions. We hope you can attend.

Love,
Heather
“If you are cold, tea will warm you; if you are too heated, it will cool you; if you are depressed, it will cheer you; if you are excited, it will calm you.” William Gladstone British statesman and Prime Minister