An exotic assort of fruits and crackers and sandwiches marked the tea at Bedlam Farm
Saturday. Maria whipped it up (all but the scones) in a half-hour or so.

 
  A most astonishing thing happened at Bedlam Farm Saturday. Maria and two of her (our) friends, Audrey and Beth, have formed a ladies tea which meets monthly, irregularly. I am not a member, and cannot join,  but I was the guest speaker and was permitted to wash the dishes.
  I cannot imagine more unlikely human to have a tea group than Maria, but it is, of course, more than that, a creative burst of food, conversation, and a lot of laughing, talk, friendship and love.
  At such times I appreciate the vast gender differences, and much envy some women I know their openness, capacity to make and keep friends, and sense of the importance of making time and space to connect with one another. Maria, Beth and Audrey appreciate and support each other. It was a touching thing to see.
  Although I watched from a distance, I appreciated it.