I was watching the weather carefully because I knew it was time to have tea under the apple blossoms out on a little island called Sauvie Island, not far from Portland. The island is situated where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers come together. It is an island of farms and a bird sanctuary. On the island is a historic house with a historic apple orchard. It is open to the public, yet very few people know of it or visit. Each year I go to have tea under the blossoms and again under the apples in the fall. My tea friend that often went with me has moved to Hawaii; thus my recent trip was to have tea with her in her new surroundings.
Jim went with me this past Friday because it was the day we could determine there would be no rain. The lawn was covered with little daisies as we walked to the orchard. I was so glad they hadn't mowed it, as it was beautiful. The apple blossoms probably will be at their most beautiful in about another week, but there were plenty in bloom. There are only three picnic tables under the trees, but we could choose which one we wanted. We chose the one in the sun because it was still a bit cool. We sipped Secret Garden Oolong from Floating Leaves, which I thought was most appropriate. I also pack some nibbles of salami, cheese, crackers, olives, and dried apricots. It was a lovely adventure to the countryside and sitting under the apple blossoms.
The house is called the Bybee-Howell House. When my children were young they had events here with old time games such a gunny sack races and live "down home" music. The location was taken over by another organization and they no longer have events, but still open to the public. It is my own "secret garden" and I love, love having tea under the apple tree branches. It is indeed my "ode to spring".
Bluebells blooming under this tree. Lilacs were in bloom next to the house. All the glory of new blooming flowers makes my heart sing.
Happy Springtime!
Sending love,
Marilyn
This apple orchard is so enchanting, Marilyn. I love when you take us along with you when you visit. The apple blossoms are so pretty, and look at those bluebells underneath the tree. Everything looks so green, and it seems that spring is a good time to visit. I can see why you call this place your "secret garden." Oolong tea sounds nice for your outing, and salami, cheese, and crackers go perfect with it. Thanks for sharing your time with us at this beautiful orchard. I'm surprised more people don't visit.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous idea and a really fun time! Those blossoms -- Wow! They're truly gorgeous and I imagine sweet smelling. What an ideal place to have your tea and snacks. I think maybe I need to prepare a picnic for Rick and me -- maybe in a few weeks when it isn't 47 out!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tradition you have, Marilyn. Tea under the Apple Blossoms sounds delightful. I'm glad the weather cooperated on your chosen day.
ReplyDeleteMy what a lovely post . . . a walk through the little daisies to have a marvelous picnic under the apple blossoms, that is so romantic and delightful. I cannot think of a better way to spend a Springtime afternoon :)
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