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"The Purple Hat Ladies Tea Society" —
Visit to Darlene's Tea House
by Joan Cripps
It was a dreary rainy day, but made bright by the arrival at Darlene's Tea House
in Barnettville of ten gals wearing Purple Hats.
On entering the delightfully decorated Tea House, we were warmly greeted by our
hostess, Darlene Jardine.
After introductions were made, our fun began with the singing of our Purple
Hat song.
Some poetry was read and Matilda gave us a tune on her fiddle. Then to
match the dreariness of the day she played a Lament. To Matilda’s shock, the ladies began screaming and laughing, as
low and behold peeking at us through the curtained window was a kangaroo wearing a purple hat.
I knew it had stolen my purple hat, but never dreamt it would have the
nerve to show up at our tea. She (He?) seemed a friendly sort, so we decided to invite her in for tea . . . no problem, in
she came as smart looking as could be and sat herself at the end of the table to the delight of Darlene and the ladies.
She seemed interested in "Show & Tell." The ladies had each brought
something of their mother’s, grandmothers or father’s and told a little story behind the article. Darlene brought
out a tin pan dating back to the 1700's. A real conversation piece.
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| Joan Cripps, Darlene Jardine and Kangaroo |
Wilma then introduced Mira . . . called after our beautiful Miramichi.
She is our Mascot who attends all our teas with us.
After singing our Grace and Lillian reading our "Cup of Tea" poem, tea
was served with Fiddlehead soup, sandwiches made with a variety of home-made grain breads, scones, clotted cream and jam,
and a special dessert of ginger cake with rum raisin sauce topped with whipped cream . . . what a tea!
Our chef was a pleasant man who must have chuckled listening to our carrying
on.
Before we left, I pinned Darlene with a little purple hat made by Bobbie
one of our ladies. Pictures were taken and the Kangaroo was bound to get in them . . . another delightful afternoon spent
in fun and friendship with Purple Hatters, thanks to our wonderful Hostess.
--Joan Cripps, Founder of "The Purple Hat Ladies Tea Society"
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