Tea Time On the Verite

Today we had the pleasure of taking two guests from the Puget Sound Book Artist's group out on the Verite for our version of a mini High Tea. As we made our way down the waterway we were greeted with a brisk 10 mph wind and some large rollers. Most didn't notice as everyone was in high spirits and ready for anything. As the bluish water turned to aqua brown green one guest decided she was ready to try rowing. Instructions followed, but the mention of crabs - the kind that knock you off your seat caused some hesitation. She bravely moved into position at a port oar. Concentration written all over her face, till we complimented her. Instantly she caught a crab but smartly she popped her oar up and out just like she 'otter. We all cheered for a successful maneuver. She passed her initiation - check mark that! Without further ado it was time for tea.

The Women on the Water brought forth a bountiful array of delicacies and tasty treats. There was smoked salmon or cucumber sandwiches, a savory dish with roasted veggies, dolmas, fruit kabobs, melons and  pitted fruits of the season, crackers and cheese, cookies and this thing called raspberry slump. It was delicately decorated with fresh lavender and made for a beautiful presentation.  Our guests drank Life Boat  tea from fine china while the crew drank from simple green metal cups reminiscent of last century. Perhaps the only hardship of the day. There in the midst of mingling fresh and salt water we sat enjoying the bounty, tea and time together while the noisy motor boats stirred the waters all around. We caught the eye of curious kayakers who came in close trying to figure out this unusual scene. Dingle, the harbor seal, came in very close today. She is shy but very curious and loves to eavesdrop on all the chatter and laughing. It was simply luscious until the wind subsided and the heat began to rise, indication it was time to head back. We complied, as ladies shouldn't collect too much dew while wearing large feathered hats, pearls and dresses.  As you can see - any day can be an occasion, perhaps every day should be? There's no reason why not.

Somebody noticed she didn't get something? Don't cry...

Dingle, the harbor seal, is out in the distance.