Drinking Tea

Some of my fondest memories have been accompanied by a cup of tea.

I fell in love with Mighty Leaf Green Tea Tropical at the age of 17, when I ordered it at the Foglifter Cafe in McCall, Idaho to warm up from a powdery day at Brundage Mountain. At the time, I didn't know that the tea lined the shelves of most grocery stores, and for years, I stopped at the Foglifter whenever possible to pick up "that special green tea."

My affection for tea grew tenfold during a grad school stint in the UK. Between studies and work, I nested at High Stone cafe, a quaint little shop just off the Camden High Street. The shop was decorated with a spectrum of rainbow tea tins, which I sampled my way through until I discovered my favorite: T2 Blue Mountain blend. This floral black tea is peppered with dried blue cornflowers: wholesome and earthy, with the perfect touch of sweetness. I'd order myself a pot and cozy up in the corner for hours at a time, studying some, but mostly chatting with the barista Daisy about this, that, or the other... museums, her upcoming wedding, the tribulations of being a bride. 

One bitter cold night in London, I sought refuge in a Japanese tea house, Katsute 100. One step through the door brought me instant comfort and peace. The physical space was warm but minimalist. Every piece was selected with such intention, handcrafted stoneware mugs lining the wooden shelves. Bright colored desserts flirted from the glass display: green matcha strawberry shortcake, blush pink sakura mochi, black sesame souffle cake. A wooden menu with parchment paper listed a simple selection of rice-based teas. I ordered Genmaicha, a green tea with roasted brown rice, which warmed my belly and soul. 

Tea has a magic about it. The aromas and the heat gently remind us to sip slowly, to take pause, to enjoy, and to notice. I always keep a healthy supply of tea on hand, and I brew daily. I've ordered myself T2 Blue Mountain for nostalgia's sake, and I'm on the hunt for a nice earthy Japanese looseleaf blend. My latest indulgence is Aveda comforting tea, a soft blend of licorice root, peppermint leaves, sweet fennel, and basil. I sip it on my lunch break, or when I'm feeling overwhelmed at work. I sip it on lazy Sundays, while I read my favorite books. 

Tea is a renewing ritual for me. What are your favorite teas?

Genmaicha Green Tea | China Factory Supply 100% Natural ...      AVEDA Comforting Tea Bags Pro Packung 20 Stück | baslerbeauty

Blue Mountain Loose Leaf Gift Cube              

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