“Let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein”
(I Chronicles 16:32).

As we enjoy all the seasons in God’s beautiful creation, we are now preparing to fall into the arms of autumn. Southern Seasons 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes & Ideas gives us wonderful ideas to inspire those moments of cozy sipping and serving others on a cool fall day. We can light candles as a perfect touch, an inexpensive way of making each meal or event glamorous. It adds that soft glow and warm ambiance, giving a look we so desire as we spoil those we dearly love and appreciate. First, search these tasty recipes for a treat to prepare for events throughout this season.

October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came –
The Chestnuts, Oaks, Maples,
And leaves of every name.
The sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,
Miss Weather led the dancing,
Professor Wind the band.
~ George Copper (1792-1830)

The tea hour is the hour of peace. Strife is lost in the hissing of the kettle — a tranquilizing sound, second only
to the purring of a cat.
~ Agnes Repplier, To Think of Tea (1932)

What to serve for an autumn tea?

Light Tea
Is what the name implies. The menu will include scones, sweets, and your choice of tea.

Full Tea
Is considered a four-course menu. First, serve savories such as finger sandwiches, taking the edge off the appetite. Scones, sweets, desserts, and choice of tea will follow.

Royal Tea
Is the same as Full Tea with the addition of champagne or sherry. You may serve non-alcoholic drinks such as punch or flavored mineral water to create your own Royal Tea for children and for those who refrain from alcohol. We suggest and practice serving non-alcoholic juices beautifully bottled. We are Tea-Totalers! We believe this is the best and healthiest way.

High Tea
Is often misused. It is not a dainty affair. Historically, High Tea was the main meal, served at the end of the day, when workers came home after a hard day’s toil. Everyone was seated at the table with food passed from person to person or served buffet style. The menu offered consisted of hot or cold meats such as meat pies, sausages, Welsh Rarebit, breads, cheeses, butter, jams, relishes, desserts, fruits, and, of course, tea.

Nursery Tea is a late afternoon, simple, small meal for children and their caregivers. Very often, it’s not tea that’s served but lemonade, milk, and juices.

Ham Teas are small meals with hearty, man-sized sandwiches. They are not dainty. I’d say this is the type most men prefer.

Elevenses is like our American, late morning coffee break, serving tea instead with donuts or a pastry.

Orange Slice Cookies

Ingredients

9 oz. pkg yellow Jiffy mix
1 large egg
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup chopped pecans
10 orange slice candies, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°. Stir together all ingredients until blended. Drop by tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Remove and place on wire racks to cool. Makes 2 dozen.

These Orange Slice Cookies are simple and delicious to make. They are great to freeze for unexpected guests. Just thaw/heat a few seconds in the microwave. Add hot teas for a yummy taste!

The history of cookies as a confectionery goes back beyond the written word. The modern-day cookie as we know it came into being about 200 years ago when tea and coffee were introduced in Europe. Then, as well as now, cookies make the perfect accompaniment to these beverages.

A constant reminder of God’s love and presence is visible with each sunrise or sunset.
~ Linda J. Hawkins

Our eyes drink in the beauty of Kentucky’s fall decor.
This time allows for travel of side roads to relax and enjoy
all that the season has to offer. “From the rising of
the sun until the going down thereof . . . .”
~ Linda J. Hawkins

When I think of fall, I think of cooler days, leaves crunching beneath my feet, that crisp autumn smell. We stroll through the park or woods, holding hands with those we love, as we hold these memories forever.

———

Author Linda J Hawkins is a busy Christian lady who loves God’s creation. As her stress-buster when life gets hectic, she grabs her boots and camera and heads to the fields and woods snapping pictures as she allows herself to indulge in His lovely world. This is her sure way of feeling His Spirit and peace in a chaotic world. She returns refreshed and with a thousand pictures to share.

Linda has written numerous books for children and adults. She is the owner of Heart to Heart Publishing, Inc., and her mission is helping families be healthier and happier. She served many years as a Sunday School teacher and youth leader and is still active in her church, NPC. Linda volunteered ten years as a crisis counselor for abused women and children and has spoken in many venues inspiring others in this journey of life.