Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Tea For Connie

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Rhondi over at Rose Colored Glasses is hosting a new party called  Tea Party Tuesday so I wanted to join in and serve tea today from  a special tea set I received from a very special person.

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Before I decided to “retire” from the working world and try my hand at being a full-time homemaker, I was a legal secretary for the local prosecutor’s office for several years.  One of the attorneys I was assigned to work for had a reputation of being somewhat gruff, crusty and hard to work for. 
In the early 1950’s, when Connie was 6 years old, she contracted polio.  The polio had stunted her growth, deformed her body and left her unable to walk so she had been confined to a wheelchair ever since.  Although she was a little bitty thing, she definitely had a big presence and a big voice.   She was opinionated,  outspoken and never hesitated to tell you exactly what she thought about any given situation…good or bad. 

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But as intimidating as she appeared, it didn’t take me long to figure out Connie  had a softer side too.  She  was passionate about animals, especially cats.  She loved roses and grew some of the biggest, most beautiful, fragrant roses you have ever seen.  She had a sweet tooth that was insatiable and often baked goodies to bring into the office to share with the other attorneys and support staff.  She loved anything shabby chic.  Pink was her signature color.  Her house, inside and out was pink, and most of her clothes were pink.  She even had an assortment  of  pink rhinestone reading glasses.
Despite her reputation of being difficult, I found Connie to be extremely easy to work for.  She handled each and every one of her prosecution cases in a very methodical manner, which made my job easier.  Once I learned her routine, I knew exactly what needed to be done at each stage of a case, thus increasing my productivity and efficiency.  We made a good team and I thoroughly enjoyed being her secretary.

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After I  resigned, Connie and I continued to keep in touch via email and telephone.  She was always anxious to hear about the decorating projects I was working on and see photos.  Of course she loved all the pink cottage decor I was adding to my home and one time when we met for dinner, she surprised me by gifting me with a beautiful pink rose tea set for two.
Sadly, Connie  passed away rather suddenly in December 2008 as a result of complications of polio.  I feel very blessed to have known her and will treasure this tea set always.

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I’d like to dedicate this Tea Party Tuesday post to Connie.  May she finally be free of her wheelchair and dancing up a storm in heaven.

18 comments:

Jocelyn said...

Oh Shari, what a lovely tribute to Connie. She gave you a beautiful tea set, but the friendship you both shared was so special and unique. Thanks for sharing a cup with me today.

Jocelyn
http://justalittlesouthernhospitality.blogspot.com/

Rhondi said...

Dear Shari
What a lovely story and a sweet tribute to a special person. The tea set is beautiful but so much more beautiful knowing the story behind it.
I am so happy that you joined my tea party today.
Hugs, Rhondi

Unknown said...

Lovely post and tribute to a special friendship. Sue

Happy To Be/ Gl♥ria said...

Beautiful Shari the story of Connie and the wonderful tea for 2 set...to me these are the kinds of things that are PRICELESS my friend...Hows your home coming along...Hope you have a GREAT day my sweeet friend...Hugs and smiles Gl♥ria

Cindy said...

What a wondeful tribute to a special lady. That is a really gorgeous tea set, too. Hugs, Cindy S.

Chari at Happy To Design said...

Hello Shari...

My friend, your rose chintz tea set is absolutely gorgeous! What a sweet gift! Your fabulous tea for two is such an endearing tribute to your dear friend...so sweet! It sounds like she would have absolutely adored your lovely tea...with all those pretty pinks! Thank you so much for sharing it with us as well...what a treat!!!

Warmest wishes,
Chari @Happy To Design

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful and heart felt story. It goes to show we are to quick to judge. If your co-workers had took the time to get to know your friend they would have found out what a wonderful person she really was. Your little tea set is just lovely. I hope you have a happy day.

podso said...

A lovely story, and it makes the tea set all the more beautiful and endearing. By the way, your little cakes are so charming! And looking delicious.

Kathryn @ Bonafide Southern said...

What a lovely teaset and even more lovely story. I'm sure Connie would be very honored by this tribute.

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

What a precious story and teaset. My MIL was sticken with polio as a child and lived many years with difficulties from it. A wonderful memory of your co-worker.

Sandra said...

Wonderful post and beautiful tea set!

Debbie said...

First - I love the new design on your blog. It is awesome. What a sweet story of your friend. And as always I truly look forward to your every post on the new house and your decorating style. You do an awesome job. Anxiously awaiting more. And I ENVY you that awesome laundry room....I would love to have that room!!!

Pink Roses and Teacups said...

Shari,

What a beautiful tribute to your friend Connie. Such a lovely tea set. She was lucky to have you as a friend. :)

Debbie

Anonymous said...

Love your story about Connie! I know each time you look at this beautiful tea set you'll think of her and her kindness to you!
Thank you for popping in to see me.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

Maggie Ann said...

What a touching story...the best kind of all, where love and creativity bloom in the midst of adversity. Your tea set is beautiful and must be a joy to use, doubly so since Connie was a special part of your life. I've enjoyed being a part of your tea party, thank you for having me over.

Lottie said...

What a beautiful post!

Marigene said...

What a lovely tribute to your friend. The tea set is beautiful.

Michele from Ohio said...

Your story really touched my heart. I am actually crying.

I think that tea set is one of the most bneautiful I have ever seen. How truly thoughtful of her.

I, too, hope she is dancing.

Thank you for sharing this story, and Connie, with us all.