07/14/2026
Something important happened today!
Sometimes the Most Important Meetings Happen Around a Tea Table
One of the things I've learned over the past fourteen years is that Belle Grove has a way of working its magic.
People can look at photographs.
They can read about its history.
They can hear me talk about the Land of Promise Project.
But nothing compares to actually sitting in this house, hearing its stories, and experiencing what makes it so special.
Today was one of those days.
I had the pleasure of hosting Afternoon Tea for two very special ladies. To respect their privacy, I'll simply call them **KR** and **KT**.
As we enjoyed our Belle Grove Plantation Exclusive Tea Blend—Miss Hooker's Lemonade Lavender and Port Conway Almond Pear—and a table full of afternoon tea treats, we talked.
Not just about Belle Grove...
But about the journey.
I shared how Brett and I found Belle Grove fourteen years ago, the 412 days it took to open the doors, and the incredible adventure that has brought us to where we are today.
After tea, we walked through the mansion together.
I shared the stories behind some of the furniture, where pieces came from, and how many of the rooms were inspired by the families who once called Belle Grove home.
Then our conversation turned to the Land of Promise Project.
We talked about where we are today, the opportunities ahead, and the work that still needs to be done to preserve Belle Grove for future generations.
As I watched their reactions, I was reminded of something important.
People don't fall in love with Belle Grove because of a fundraising goal.
They fall in love with Belle Grove because they experience it.
By the end of our visit, I could see the excitement growing.
KT shared that she would like to become more involved with Belle Grove and the Foundation.
KR has an incredible network of people she believes I need to meet.
Those introductions alone could open doors we don't even know exist yet.
As I closed the front door behind them this afternoon, I found myself smiling.
Not because we had accomplished something huge today.
But because we had taken another step forward.
That is how this project is growing.
One conversation.
One introduction.
One relationship at a time.
Thank you to KR and KT for spending the afternoon with me, for listening, for sharing your ideas, and for believing in what we are trying to accomplish.
The journey continues...
And I have a feeling some very exciting things are just around the corner.
