Day 6: November 6, 2013

Cup of Tea on a Dreary Day

In keeping with the Grateful theme I established yesterday, I thought I would give thanks for a cup of tea on a rather bleak day, which warms me to my toes and relaxes my mind.

I have just recently started to sample the wide variety of teas available.  I grew up in a home where there were two choices:  Lipton regular or decaf.  But today there are not only several brand names from which to choose, but different tea leaves and a host of subtle flavorings.  I still use the convenient tea bags as opposed to loose tea and a diffuser, and I most definitely have not mastered the art of brewing the perfect cup of tea.  But in these cold winter months, I find nothing more comforting that sipping a hot cup while reading a good book.  (I anticipate the first fire of the season to soon initiate the fireplace, and that will be the subject of another grateful post)

I am currently drinking leftover Christmas Eve from Stash Tea Company.  The herbal tea has a delicate mint flavor which is enhanced by a touch of sweetness.  I am most anxious to try their new holiday tea, however, Christmas in Paris which they describe as:  a unique herbal tea which blends chocolate flavor with aromatic lavender and cool peppermint for a sophisticated cup.  Does that not sound heavenly?  And who could resist the Parisian influence?

This photo also represents another blessing in my life:  the students I teach and their wonderfully supportive parents.  One particular family gave me this tea pot/cup set several years ago as a Christmas gift.  It is absolutely perfect for me:  not too large, holding just enough for two adequate cups; a delicate cup design, which I imagine the likes of Jane Austen using in her time; and a literary theme that will always remind me of my favorite class, British Literature.  I use this set almost exclusively when I fix an afternoon or evening tea, and I am always reminded of not only this special family, but all the families I have had the privilege of serving these several years.