Tea in the Garden

One of my favorite places to have tea is in our gazebo, so please come in and have a seat while we relax and rejuvenate.  I am linking with Bernideen for Tea in the Garden on Saturday and with a few other friends.  Today also happens to be National Iced Tea Day.

Surely, there are few things more inspiring than fresh peony blossoms.  Their sweet aroma alone can take one back to a simpler time.

Peonies (Paeonia) have been stalwarts of spring and summer gardens for decades.  Did you know they got their start in the wild, primarily growing from the mountains to the sea in regions stretching from the Mediterranean to east Asia.

Early in the spring, I always put on my grow through supports since their huge flowers sit on weak stems, which often bend at the first sign of rain.  I have three different varieties in my perennial garden.  My favorite is the double flowers which have numerous ruffled petals that fill the center of the bloom.  Their fragrance is that of a sweet rose and is most fragrant in the morning before their volatile oils dissipate with the heat of the day.

These old-fashioned flowers are one of my favorites, but what about those darn ants!  Clearly, the flower buds produce a sweet substance that they like; however, I don't want them in my house.  This year I will try soaking the buds in water before bringing them indoors.

I have set out a fruit basket for us to enjoy.  Please help yourself to some delicious grapes and sweet, juicy watermelon. 

It is rather warm today so I have a refreshing glass of green tea with lemon.  May I pour you a glass?

"For some would say flowers are nature's masterpieces, but a well-made basket is a priceless treasure."

This oval-shaped peony basket features a lovely sage trim with a scalloped liner bursting with colorful peony blossoms.

The peony fabric is beautiful and matches our basket liner.

Thank you for sharing a cool refreshment with me.  Have a wonderful weekend!  I am also linking with the following ladies:

Mosaic Monday @ Little Red House

Tea Time Tuesday @ Rose Chintz Cottage

Table Top Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life

Tea Cup Tuesday @ Martha's Favorites

Tea Cup Tuesday @ Artful Affirmations

Tuesday Tea for Two @ The Plumed Pen

Bloomin' Tuesday @ Ms. Green Thumb Jean

Tuesday Garden Party @ An Oregon Cottage

Outdoor Wednesday @ A Southern Daydreamer

Cottage Flora Thursday @ Fishtail Cottage