Tea
Tea is a 5000 year old beverage derived from an infusion of a dried leaf from a tree that is a cousin of our garden variety of Camellia. Tea, the beverage, is the second most consumed on our planet-right after water. There are many ceremonies celebrating the consumption daily, I will share a few on this page. My own is quite British inspired, with absolutely no tea bags involved.
My tea journey started in 1980, while living aboard Auf Wiedersehen ( a wooden 46’ Chris Craft) in Seattle. The peacefulness of a quiet anchorage seemed like a quiet time each afternoon would be kinda neat. I found a tea shop on top of Queen Anne hill and found part of my future in loose leaf tea. As a lifelong learner, it immediately became important for me to learn what this magic elixir was all about (strictly as a hobby for many years). From 2011-2015, I traveled our country to professional training seminars earning a CTS (Certified Tea Specialist) designation-during this time, I also was involved in the business with a popup, small store and finally a tea room. During this period, I also attended the World Tea Expo in Vegas or Long Beach annually (what a kick to be so involved with so many very knowledgeable and passionate people from all over the world!). I have 2 pots each morning to start the day and 1 pot in the 3:00-4:00 time-followed by a few Guinness (more EU eh?).
Having given dozens of classes and events all over town, I try to share that no one ceremony (tea is not to be hoity-toity, however) is more “correct” than any other. This is a choice that should be “just for you”! “Tea does not belong in traffic” is one of my mantras, take a little time and ENJOY whatever and however you choose.
I will write more on Tea-the beverage, ceremony and lifestyle as this Blog continues to grow. I have firsthand knowledge of how this gentle experience daily has led folks to ENJOYMENT and happiness within themselves.
However (if) you ENJOY Tea, it’s an historic journey
Terry