Tea Time
My mom taught me that a cup of tea can solve just about anything that is wrong. If I was upset about school, or friends, or boys, Mom would put the kettle on and bring out the tea cups. Equally valuable was a cup of tea to celebrate good news and to just catch-up. Putting on the kettle is an important part of tea time. You must start with cold water. I was lucky to grow up in a farm area where our well water came from springs. The kettle then goes on the stove while you get the cups from cupboard and the milk from the refridge. During all of these steps, you begin your chat because tea time is not just a cup of liquid, but an experience to savor and to share. It takes time.
I continued tea time throughout my entire life. I serve tea to my girlfriends as we converse about our lives, families and even world events. I share tea time with my husband each morning as we start our day and discuss our plans. It is also tea that I drink when taking my Parkinson’s meds which can be upsetting to the stomach. The soothing warm liquid seems to help settle things down. In addition, I keep a cup of tea by my side while reading the latest book club literary treasure. And I only consider dinner finished when I have had my cup of tea at the end of the meal. It is a source of refreshment, relaxation, medication and it is down right tasty.
It sounds as if I am a connoisseur of tea. Well, not really . I absolutely do enjoy a gourmet brand of English or Irish Breakfast, but I usually just have a box of Tetley in the pantry. Although, I do admit when I can find it at the grocery store, I will splurge and get the British Blend Tetley tea. The circular bags have no strings with tags for dipping, but they are richer in flavor than the square ones. I also try not to have caffeine in the evening so I have found the British Blend Tetley Decaffinated tea to be more flavorable and robust as compared to other decaffinated teas.
When I have my girlfriends join me for tea, I always use cups and saucers rather than mugs. And I am not shy about bringing out my Royal Albert Lady Carlyle Tea Set , a gift from mom, just because... As the British note, tea is a necessary part of each day and should be given the attention it deserves. I agree with this line of thought. So I add touches to my tea time by keeping a stock of nicely patterned napkins, often from the dollar store!, to use when serving. And if possible, some simple crossiants or butter cookies or scones go quite nicely with a steamy teapot full of your favorite blend. With such a small amount of effort, tea time can be special, almost regal.
Tea, anyone?
