Our first Sip n’ Sketch was held at the Over the Second Cup Tea Room in Orange Park. This is part of Basketique in the old railroad station and is a real English high tea. Hats and gloves were not required, but some opted to be “proper.”
We even drank PG Tips, the same tea the Queen drinks with hot milk and Demerara sugar cubes just the way she likes it! Pat Sessions, the owner, was absolutely charming as she served up our six (yes, 6!) courses of delicious food in such a way that we were able to paint as we went along. We began with tea and scones, clotted cream and raspberry jam. This was supposed to be our 5th course, but we enjoyed it first to get started.
We had the most delicious strawberry soup with chocolate granola on top and then the salad course. The exquisite presentation on beautiful linens, crystal, china and silverware was almost too much to take in.
After a nap, the youngest member of our group enjoyed the cheese straws, and then Pat served dessert.
Pat gave us plenty of time, and the twelve of us were still there laughing and drawing after three hours. As Pat said, we were there to “relax, feed your body and soul, and enjoy.” We’ll do this again sometime.
Sketchers in Provence 
What a charming shop. Reminds me of England, Lovely drawings.
Just LOVE this!!! i should have been there!!!
Thanks for the peripatetic painters update. great to hear from you
What a great job by all! I can tell that everyone was very inspired. Sorry I missed it but hope to get the opportunity to do that sometime.
Dale epitomizes the quintessential southern belle! Looks like a fabulous spread and a lovely way to spend the day!
In my opinion, the work is the best yet. I love how everyone makes different choices.
Thanks again Mary Ann.
Your group certainly had a lot going on sipping, eating, drawing and taking in the ambiance of this fabulous looking tea room. Sounded like a wonderful day well spent.
How fun is this! So appreciate how you all enjoy your sketching time together.