National Hot Tea Month Favorites

January is National Hot Tea Month here in the U.S.  It has been extremely cold for longer periods of time than is usual.  Local schools have been cancelled due to the wind chill of -30 degrees F. or more.  Though I don't need a reason, like extreme cold temperatures outdoors, to enjoy a hot cup of tea, I must admit I am drinking more of it these days.

Some of my favorite teas and links to their sites are:

 PG Tips

Teavana

Tea Forte

Lipton

Celestial Tea

FavaTea
The Republic of Tea



I have recently enjoyed Red Rose.  Personally, I do not drink herbal teas, but on occasion have brewed them with a light tea or Rooibos tea.

When I am enjoying tea alone in the afternoon, it is important to me that I be sitting, relaxing, taking a break from household chores, sorting the mail, or perhaps reading my newest issue of Tea Time Magazine.  Having a cup of tea is equivalent to taking a break, as I can't imagine gulping down a cup just to have my cup of tea.

Although it is tempting to have sweet treat, I truly enjoy just the cup of hot tea, especially on a cold day.

Each day is a gift...an opportunity....a treasure...

Because God is the one who gives us the breath of life...

Places before us a purpose and direction...

Allows us to enjoy the wonder of His presence..

And the fellowship of His love.

-- Roy Lessin

What are your favorite teas?  How do you most enjoy a cup of tea?

SB

Sudden Loss

There are times in our lives when we are stunned by a Sudden Loss, when our heart is aching for a family or friend who is wrought by grief.  This post is dedicated to the friends who have recently lost loved ones.

"When a sudden loss of a love one happens, we are in disbelief;
Next comes so much sorrow and grief.
Only our Lord knows his reasons why -
All we know is shock and then we cry....and cry.....and cry.

But our faith tells us our journey here is short -
We do not understand no matter how we try.

Know that your loved love is happy;
No more pain, illness or worrying what lies beyond.
As God's newest angel, eternal life is ahead.
Their journey on each has come to an end."
                                                 -- Ruth B. 2008

Just for You, Joanne!

My sister is one of a few new employees in a prominent law office in our town.  She has retired from years of service to the County's juvenile court system, and now works part time as a legal secretary.  Recently she told me that one of the long time legal secretaries was retiring at the end of December (the end of the year).  She wondered if a retirement party would be planned for Joanne.

That gave me a bright idea!  I had invited Joanne to tea on November 24, but a Green Bay Packer game took precedence.  Joanne had asked me to keep her on my teatime invitation list.......I would be doing far more than that ...... I would be bringing the teatime celebration to her and this time, it would be a retirement surprise.

And so I did just that.......

 Pumpkin Scones with spice glaze and Chocolate Chip scones

What a special moment it was!  I packed up the scones and Devonshire cream, and mincemeat tarts, a note about the experience of teatime pleasures, and contact information should anyone like to come to tea.

 

My sister and I had arranged the best time for me to go to their office, and I arrived carrying armfuls of goodies.  I had planned to set up the food and then lead Joanne into the conference room, but she was already there, taking a break with her new trainee.  "Hi, Joanne.  I've brought the tea party to you, in honor of your retirement," I said.  I set up the food, and looked up to find the entire female staff gathered in the room.  I introduced myself and told them I would be happy to talk with them about coming to tea, or serving tea at their own home. 

 

As I have said before, I love to share my baked goods with others, especially those that least expect it.   As I was getting ready to leave, Joanne said to me, "This is the nicest things anyone has every done for me."  Happy Retirement, Joanne!