We have all been social distancing, staying home, and donning masks for the past year to prevent infection. Depending on the size of your "social bubble" (usually, immediate family members), you are able to interact with others. The vaccine availability seems to have lessened stress levels of many, and for that, I am grateful.
However, here in southern California, we have been "closed" for almost and entire year.
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| Historic Downtown Upland |
Even outdoor dining was only a very recent and not very frequent option.
Being an Introvert by nature, and a writer with two dogs for company, life hasn't been intolerable for me. However, the days and weeks seem to blend into one another.
And, while my dogs were able to visit the groomer--I was not.
I am not very good at do-it-your-self hair cuts. Still, I am ambidexterous, so my nails are presentable. (Not a good trade-off, but it is what it is.)
When we were given the okay for indoor dining, I realized I have not sat inside a restaurant since Jan. 2020.
Wow.
My favorite restaurant (Souplantation) is shuttered for good.
This gave me a chance to re-define 2021 with a tentative baby-step. Nothing profound, mind you, but a step back into normalcy.
I do love coffee but I also enjoy a cup of Earl Grey tea every afternoon, I realized, pondering a place to dine.
I visited my hairstylist.
I was able to make a reservation at a 'newly relocated' English Tea Room.
The Magnolia Tea Room is only 6 miles from my home. It's also located in the Downtown Historical District in Upland, California.
I thought I'd share my joyous occasion and '1st 2021 Adventure' with you :-).
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| The Outdoor Garden |
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| The Afternoon Tea setting |
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| The scone was delicious (I didn't snap a picture) |
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| The Ladies' Room |
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| Terry, "Me" and Michael (notice my lovely hairdo) All vegetables and fruit are harvested from one of their two local farms. Farm to Table is their motto. I brought home a jar of 'honey with a touch of lavender', too! |
After I click the 'publish' button for this post, I'm back at my keyboard with a pup in my lap and a cup of hot tea within reach.
Happy Reading! (remember to mention a favorite tea in any comment you leave for me.)
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