Delights of the Heart

Perfumery of Tea

2012-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Often when I step into a tea shop
I am reminded of perfume shops in Paris.
We open containers and sniff.
Oh the fragrance sitting there.
Sometimes the fragrance is of earthy tones
or is a sweetness we smell there.

Maybe what we smell is bergomot or orange and cloves.
But whatever the fragrance,
take a sniff and savor the special smell of tea.

***********

"The fragrance of adventure and poetry endlessly 

pervades each cup of tea."

Henri Mariage, founder of Mariage Freres.

Photo taken in Barcelona, Spain, as I stepped inside a beautiful, small tea shop.

Don't forget the give away mentioned on Tuesday.
The drawing will be announced on Monday morning.

The Sea is Calling

2012-02-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

I love a winter sea.
Do you?
It is calling me to come and wiggle my toes there.
I shall return.

Don't forget the give-away mentioned yesterday.

Heart and Flowers - Part 2

2012-02-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

Hearts and Flowers can be displayed so many different ways.
The flowers here are my first crocus of the season.
If you saw them in a wider angle you might notice that they
grow in my lawn in the shape of a heart.
They always make an appearance for Valentine's and
they haven't disappointed this year either.
There are other hearts here too.

Since I haven't had a give away in awhile and it is Valentine's Day,
I am having a small give away.
I will pick one of these hearts to come your way
along with a copy of the newly released issue of Tea a Magazine.
Just leave a comment here to be placed in the drawing.
The winner will be announced next Monday.

Happy Valentine's to all of you.

May your day be filled to overflowing with love.

Hearts and Flowers

2012-02-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

For Aye and Aye

They say that we are growing old,

You, my dear, and I,

Which may be so by count of years-

Figures do not lie.

And yet-and yet, how unaware

Are figures of this truth-

Love triumphing time is far

More sweet than love of youth.

And I am still all yours, my dear,

As you, thank God, are mine-

For life, and then for aye and aye,

Each other's Valentine.

Kitchen Sonnets by Ethel Romig Fuller

The passion of red hearts and flowers is seen here.
As my eyes no longer see as clearly,
the brilliant color shines.
Do you love chocolates and flowers for Valentine's,
or is it just the thought, dear friend.
For Valentine's is just another day, but
yet set aside for you.
We will share our hugs and love so true,
and celebrate the day.
Happy Valentine's, dear friends.

Sending you Love

2012-02-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

February 14th is the day of LOVE.
Valentine's Day it is called.
So my heart and my mind is beginning to look forward to this day
with cookies made of all things sweet.
I am surrounding myself with those I love
and cherishing the thoughts of LOVE.
But I am reminded as I think of Valentine's Day
that each day should be a day of LOVE.
There may not always be heart shaped cookies,
but certainly a hug and the hearing and telling of LOVE.

I see PASSION in this day.
A day of red hearts, red roses, and boxes of chocolates.
So today I am celebrating Valentine's Day
because I know each day is a day of LOVE.

Tea Potholders

2012-02-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

Marmalady's is my business.
One of the products sold at Marmalady's is sewing patterns for tea lovers.
One of the patterns is potholders for teapots.
The pattern has two different potholders inside.
One is a butterfly inspired by a friend.
The other looks very simple, a circle in fact,
but inspired by the one in the picture.
How clever, I thought, to have the potholder loop over the nob
on the top of the teapot. It keeps it in place quite nicely.
So if the handle on your teapot gets warm you could sew a circle
potholder quite easily and put a lop there.
The butterfly on the other hand, I do think you would need
a pattern. Come by www.marmaladys.com and check the patterns out.
If you don't sew, you might have a friend that would love to make it for you.

Are you my Neighbor?

2012-02-08T07:43:00.000-08:00

Not a very pretty picture, but the house next to mine.
It has sat empty for 2 years as it has been in foreclosure.
Oh how I wish there were a neighbor there.
A neighbor would bring "soul" back into this house.

Seeing this empty house has given me thought as to who is my neighbor.
Is a neighbor only someone that lives next door?
Is my neighbor someone I meet face to face at the market?
Is my neighbor someone that touches my heart from around the world?
Is my neighbor the ones that suffer with ill will in their countries?

Looking in the dictionary it says that my neighbor is someone close to me.
I hold those in my heart that are suffering, is that close enough to qualify as my neighbor?
Who are your neighbors?
As Mr. Rogers use to sing, Won't you be my neighbor?

A Small Vacation

2012-02-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

When a favorite magazine arrives in the mail I take a small vacation.
This was started with the original Victoria Magazine.
I make myself a cup of tea and maybe add a cookie too.
Then I find a comfy place to sit without distractions.
And for an hour I savor every word and every picture there.
When I am finished with my small vacation I feel refreshed
and have a smile on my face.
These days my small vacation is spent with Romantic Homes,
Tea a Magazine, and Victoria Magazine.
I enjoy an occasional online magazine, but there is just something
special about holding the magazine in my hand.
Do you take a small vacation when a special magazine arrives?
Which magazine gives your heart a smile?

Pie Bird

2012-02-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

Blackbirds in a Pie 
Sing a song of sixpence a pocket full of rye,
Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie.
When the pie was opened the birds began to sing,
Oh wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the king?
The king was in his counting house counting out his money,
The queen was in the parlour eating bread and honey
The maid was in the garden hanging out the clothes,
When down came a blackbird and pecked off her nose!

A silly medieval nursery rhyme, but one that came to mind when I received
this beautiful Pie Bird for a dear Christmas gift.
 

A Pie Bird is a British tradition dating back to the 1600's and
gained popularity in America in the 1930's.
Designed to prevent steam splatters and "soggy crust",
the pie bird is also collected as a novelty.
 

It definitely works!
Thanks, friend for this special gift.
I have always wanted a Pie Bird.
This bird came from Buck Pottery
in Gruene, Texas.

Winter Sun and a Singing Heart

2012-02-03T08:08:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love when that winter sun shines in the window.
This week the sun was shining in the window and it just made my heart sing.

The first camellia of the season with the light shining here too.
My heart is rejoicing!

A Singing Heart

I woke up this morning

To a singing start;

I went about the live-long day,

A song within my heart.

"Sing before you breakfast;

Cry before you sleep,"

Is an old, old saying,

But never one I keep.

I sing, and I go dancing,

With music in my tread,

Until at length I've sung myself

To supper and to bed.

Kitchen Sonnets by Ethel Romig Fuller

Temperature makes the Difference

2012-02-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Recently I woke to a couple inches of the fluffy, white snow.
A perfect day to scoop up some snow in a pretty teacup.
Isn't the contrast fun?
Putting some snow in the freezer for later it became a ball of ice.

Isn't it interesting how temperature makes the difference?
The weather had gotten cold enough to change our normal rain to snow.
Putting the snow in the freezer changed it to ice.

The same goes for temperature and tea.
Some teas such as a green tea tastes much better when not
put in hot, boiling water.
A black tea tastes much better when steeped in boiling hot water.
An oolong tea tastes better when the water is just under boiling.
Do you try your teas in different temperatures?
It is fascinating to experiment and see what the difference in a cup of tea
makes when steeped in a different temperature of water.
Have fun with your next cup of tea and steep it in a different temperature than usual.

Savory Tart

2012-02-01T07:35:00.000-08:00

For Christmas a dear friend gave me a new cookbook.

The following recipe from this cookbook was pure delight for two recent events.

It is a bit involved, but so worth it and would be perfect

for any tea party too. EnJOY!

Poppy Seed Tarts from Savory Baking by Mary Cech

Tart Shells

6 Tablespoons Poppy Seeds (I used 3 Tablespoons)

1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

6 Tablespoons unsalted, cold and 1/2 inch cubed butter

1 egg

2 teaspoons cold water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put tart pans on baking sheet. Combine poppy seeds, flour, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the butter and work it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs; this can also be done by pulsing ingredients in a food processor as well. Stir in the egg and cold water. Put the dough onto a lightly floured work surface, knead it a couple of times, then form it into a flat disc.

Divide the dough into 2 pieces and roll one piece of the dough out with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough to fit tartlet pans. (I made one 6 inch tart and 14 small individual tarts from this recipe) Gently press the dough into each pan and trim the pastry flush with the pans edge to create a neat appearance. Roll the other half of the dough and line the remaining tartlet pans. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake until light brown. 12 to 15 minutes Put the tartlets on a cooling rack and let cool before removing the baked crusts from each pan.

For serving spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of Ricotta filling into each shell and top with Chili-Grilled Eggplant and Sweet Roasted Peppers, Garnish with balsamic julienne roasted peppers. Serve at room temperature or can warm slightly in oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Ricotta Filling (or can be used as a dip)

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

2 Tablespoons finely chopped red bell pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 Tablespoon whole milk

salt

1 Tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients except sesame seeds in a small bowl and combine.

Chili-Grilled Eggplant and Sweet Roasted Peppers

1 pound eggplant (about 2 medium)

1/4 cup chili oil (I used about half and not too spicy)

1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

salt

1 medium red bell pepper and 1 medium yellow bell pepper (can use canned peppers)

1 small clove garlic, minced

2 Tablespoons Balsamic vinegar

Preheat grill to medium. Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick slices and put the slices on a baking sheet. Stir the chili oil and the 1/4 cup olive oil together in a small bowl. Lightly brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the oil mixture and dust with a little ground cumin and salt.

Place the eggplant and peppers on the grill. Roast the eggplant until soft and well marked by the grill, about 2 minutes on each side. Remove from the grill to cool. Roast the peppers until black on all sides, 10 - 15 minutes. Remove from the grill and let cool. Peel the black skin off the peppers and then stem, derib, and take out the seeds. Put the eggplant slices, the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, half of each of the roasted peppers, garlic, and a little salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until chunky, 5 - 10 seconds. (I pulsed a little longer) Remove from the bowl and season with more salt, if desired.

Cut the remaining roasted peppers into julienne strips and toss with the balsamic vinegar. Garnish the eggplant mixture with the julienne balsamic peppers. Store in refrigerator covered for up to 1 week. These julienne strips would be delicious in a tossed salad too.

My 2012 Vision Board

2012-01-31T09:23:00.000-08:00

After my post yesterday I realized there might be some that don't know what a vision board it.
Here is my vision board for 2012.
It isn't that pretty, but what is on it means something to me for this year.
It gives a focus. My word for the year is there too.
At the beginning of each year a group of women friends get together to make their vision boards.
It is a fun gathering filled with things to drink and munchies,
talk, laughter, and cutting things out of magazines.
At the end of the day we share our vision for the coming year.
We are encouraged to put a picture of ourselves on the board.
You see I am dancing in my pink tutu.
The map represents planned travel.
There is always tea.
I won't explain each thing because some are personal just for me,
but it should give you an idea what I have in my heart for 2012.

Winter Moon

2012-01-30T07:26:00.000-08:00

Does the moon sometimes just capture your heart?
Does it make you stand up and notice?
A couple weeks ago it was one of those moons
and I just couldn't get enough of looking at it.
Finally the camera came out and I played awhile.
Oh what fun I had by the light of the moon.
It was one of those nights that I just had to dance.
No one saw me, but I was dancing.
Recently this quote appeared on my vision board
for 2012:

I dance daily, watched or not!

Do you make a vision board at the beginning of the year?
Do you dance daily?
Does a beautiful moon just make your heart sing?
I hope so!

A Day like no Other

2012-01-27T08:45:00.000-08:00

The Magpie's Fancy had a 5 minute writing assignment this week and I decided to participate.
We were suppose to pick a picture from 2 years ago, study it a few minutes, then write for 5 minutes.
I love writing free of any constraints and focusing on a picture.
The following is what came from my pen.

It was a day much like today, sunshine, clouds and a little rain.
Not a particularly cold day, but a day like no other.
I was beginning to think spring might come.
The sign was guiding me forward and showing me where I came from.
It was taking me to something new, a celebration of longevity, a celebration of love,
and a celebration of what was yet to come.

Signs like these always cause me to smile as they head us in a direction and give the miles.
Oh how long those miles can seem some days, and yet before you know it you are there.
Sometimes it is the traveling there that brings us JOY as much as the arriving;
the arriving and the smiles. The warm hugs at the other end.
How special and treasured they are.
We travel far, we travel near, we travel most anywhere for that special smile
and that special hug.

Up over the hills and down through the valleys life takes us on that journey.
A journey of greetings and goodbyes, a journey of love and sorrow.
The journey and following signs is all more special because there are smiles and hugs,
sunshine and rain and clouds - yes, that is a day like no other.
A hope is glimmering, a future is here.
Take JOY in the moment - savor, dance, smile, and hug.

What is in your Cup?

2012-01-26T07:01:00.000-08:00

Do you drink more tea in the winter?
Do you drink a different tea in the winter than you do in the summer?
What tea is in your cup today?

Lately I have been thirsty for what I call "hefty" teas,
something black and strong.
I have been finding Pu-er with ginger to satisfy this hunger.

From James Norwood Pratt's book, New Tea Lover's Treasury comes this quote:

"In the old days, when Pu-Er tea was transported by horse caravans from the production areas to the the town of Pu-Er, the caravans had to travel through tropical rain forests. The moisture in the air caused the tea leaves to ferment (turn moldy, perhaps?) and enriched its flavor. As people liked the flavor of the naturally fermented tea, the tea producers began to introduce a fermenting process for Pu-Er. Unlike green tea which is best when the leaves are fresh, the older the Pu-Er, the better its flavor."

Doesn't this quote create wonderful images of the tea traveling by caravans through the rain forest?

My first exploration into Pu-er took me to an 8 year old lovely cup of tea.
Now the exploration is on and I have tried several others,
but I am partial to this first one because is was delightfully smooth.

Time in a Bottle

2012-01-25T10:30:00.000-08:00

Special birthdays only come along every 10 years or more.
We are celebrating my husbands birthday here today.
There was a dinner party for him with close friends
and we shared stories of times gone by.
The bottles lining the table were part of my husband's collection;
so the invite said we would be sharing time in a bottle.
More than that we had a wonderful collection of memories
from many friends and family.
The memories were tucked into these envelopes and
tied with a tag that said:

"Sometimes you will never know the true value

of a moment

until it becomes a Memory."

anonymous

Treasure those small moments because they do become memories.

Munro

2012-01-24T10:08:00.000-08:00

Let me introduce you to a very special dog in our family.
This is Munro.
He is in training to be a companion pet.
His owner right now is a niece-in-law.
She has trained many dogs and
Munro is the latest.
He is a sweetie and someone will be very fortunate
to have him by their side one day.
I have always known these dogs served a very special purpose,
but recently in my own neighborhood I observed a dog in action.
As I was waiting at a stop light a dog and companion walked across
the cross walk in front of me. When they arrived at the curb the dog
stopped and curved it's body gently in front of the companion causing her to stop.
She then stepped up and again I could see the dog guide her away
from walking into a pole.
Today I celebrate dog companions, they are very special indeed.

Exploring

2012-01-23T08:04:00.000-08:00

Not so very long ago I went exploring.
I love the outdoors and vintage delights.
Discovering beauty in my surroundings is definitely one of my passions,
especially when it involves the out of doors.
Even on a blustery, Winnie the Pooh sort of day,
I love wrapping up in mitten, warm coat, and a scarf,
and venturing out of doors.

Do you love exploring?
Where do you go when you go exploring?
Is it outdoors or a mall?
There are many ways of exploring
and I hope each week presents you with opportunities to delight your soul.

Happy Chinese New Year!
Open your doors and windows to let all the bad flow away,
then welcome the new year with a fresh face.

Just a Peek

2012-01-20T00:14:00.000-08:00

One more peek into my portfolios.

It was so fun to look back at what I once created.
There are three different portfolios.
The two on top in the bottom right picture, I made.
The other is the typical black leather.
Each holds memories for me from
fashion design, to sweaters I helped develop for Jantzen,
and different collages I made throughout the years.
I will show a collage or two at a later date,
but thought you would like to see a sampling
of illustrations.
The rose print is the inside of the middle portfolio.
It was a fun time and a very creative time.
Creativity is still in my blood, but often I go different directions.

What do you like to create?

Double click on the collage above to see more closely.

A Tea Kettle

2012-01-19T07:50:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas I broke my tea kettle.
I didn't realize how much I depended on it.
I was going to just get the same, but glass is dangerous in my hands.
On investigation I found this digital tea kettle at www.teatreasures.com
and I love it. Thanks Jonathon for the recommendation.
What is nice about this tea kettle is that you can set the temperature
you want or you can just press start if you want hot, boiling water.
What is nice with tea kettles in general is that they turn off
when the water is gone and they heat up the water so much faster
than on the stove.
After all us tea drinkers need our water quickly in the morning
for our first cup of tea.
Off to make my morning tea.

Save the Internet

2012-01-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

Though I am not usually political on this blog, I am encouraging you all to sign a notice to your congressmen. Make your voice heard.

https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/

Thanks!

Back tomorrow

The Last Hat

2012-01-17T08:40:00.000-08:00

Joey hasn't visited in awhile.
He likes to hide when the camera comes out.
But I thought you would like to see the last hat he probably will model.
He was not happy with me and it took hours for him to come near me
after this session with the elf hat.
He doesn't mind the kerchief around the neck
and his little friend gave him some comforting words.
But for now this is his last hat.
He is sending his greetings for a Happy New Year.

The Time is Now

2012-01-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

Winter in the garden.

The time is always right

to do

what is right.

Martin Luther King

No matter if it is winter, spring, summer, or fall
the time is always right to do for others
and to share the love.
Peace be with you on this day.

Gardener's Passion

2012-01-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

Do you ever think about what you are passionate about?
My husband is a passionate gardener.
In the winter when there isn't much to do outside,
he does a little gardening inside.
For me that means, I get to enjoy living, growing things inside during the winter.
Paper whites is one of his favorites and I love them too.
They are so easy to grow inside and they bring so much JOY.
Then recently he brought some branches into the house from
a star magnolia. Just putting the branches in a vase, they have
begun showing blooms.
Are you a winter gardener?
What do you like to have that shares it's beauty with you?
Have you been watching the ground outside to see if there are signs of life?

Happy Weekend, dear friends!

Go out and find new signs for the winter garden.

Final House for 2011

2012-01-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know it is 2012,
but I finally finished my last house for The Dollhouse Project.
Can you guess what it is?

Now let's think about what I usually write about on Thursday's?

Hummmmm?

Could it be something related to tea?

Why of course, I say.

It's a tea cozy,

just waiting with a fluffy inside to keep my next pot of tea warm.

This is a second life, as it once was a winter sweater.

It became full of holes, but still it could be used

as a re-purposed tea cozy.

Oh yes, re-purposed seems to be a theme this week.

Enjoy finding new life for old things around your house,

it is quite fun!

Pinterest Idea

2012-01-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

How many of you have explored Pinterest?
I resisted for awhile.
Now I find the most amazing pictures and ideas there.
Recently I saw this idea for de-cluttering the bathroom counter.
I thought it was rather clever.
A friend had given me the tiered server for tea parties
and maybe sometime it might be used for that purpose.
In the meantime I am loving having it in my bathroom.
Thought maybe someone else out there would like this idea.
It could be used even in the kitchen,
what do you think?
Stack it with plates, pot holders, towels,
and what else?
I love re-purposing things and using them in different ways.
Have fun today re-purposing something in your home.

Decorations that Delight my Heart

2012-01-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

This year when I took down the Christmas decorations I decided
I needed to do some decorating to just delight my heart.
Taking a look at what I already had out some revisions to the theme were made.
My daughter knitted a string of 12 little mittens for me for Christmas.
They aren't just any little mittens, but ones made with wool
I spun many years ago and I love them.
The mittens have been hung over the mantel and little hearts tucked inside
to celebrate the coming month of February and Valentine's.
My snow girl received a heart.
A basket of little inspirational hearts came out.
Finally I left one of my faux trees standing and put hearts on it.
All this to say, seeing my heart decorations definitely makes my heart sing.
Let the winter darkness come, it won't get me down - NO IT WON'T.
We will stand firm, laugh and dance and celebrate even in the darkness!

In the Darkness there is Light

2012-01-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

Throughout the winter my focus will return to light.
I am encouraging myself to notice light wherever I go.
Are you noticing light?
Did you see the amazing moon last night?
There are touches of light all around us,
but so often on these days of darkness we forget to notice.
So I encourage you this week to notice the light.
It might be in a candle or the flame on a gas stove
or maybe a flame in the fireplace or that gorgeous moon.
Take time to notice and it will make your heart sing.

Charity

2012-01-06T09:32:00.000-08:00

Recently I was sorting through my old artwork

and found this picture I did long, long ago.

It reminded me of "Charity" and giving throughout the year,

at the holidays, and at the close of the old year.

I feel blessed to live in a comfortable home with my family nearby.

Sometimes I forget to take notice of my blessings and to share.

So this picture was a good reminder to me to do what I can for others.

Yes, I do have something I will be doing soon and I hope this little

drawing is a reminder to you too.

We are often blessed and just need to notice what we notice.

It can be just a little thing.

As a young girl I remember my mom was on occasion given

a basket with fresh baked bread and jam or cookies from a friend.

What a special blessing it was to my mom, my sister, and I.

So for today and going forward I would encourage each of us to remember

those little blessings and pass them on.

Pomeroy China

2012-01-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

Davenport Pattern by Royal Doulton.
Having a fondness for transferware,
I was pleasantly delighted to see this
"Pomeroy" China when having tea before Christmas
at the Pomeroy Farm.
I thought it was quite beautiful and thought
my tea loving friends would love seeing it.
Happy Thursday, dear friends.
I hope you are enjoying a warm cup of tea on this wintery day.
What is in your cup today?

Sit Awhile

2012-01-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas I was out walking
and there before me were these chairs.
In my mind I pictured you there,
sitting with me, chatting.
Oh the words we could share.
I would bring the tea.
We would enjoy just sitting here
sometimes in silence, but most often
sharing our hearts.
Come and sit with me awhile.
Tell me what is on your heart today.
Do you hear the birds nearby?
Do you smell the damp grass?
Do you feel the softness as we walk along?
Come, sit awhile.

A Woman of Passion

2012-01-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

This is not a passion flower, but the color is warm and feels passionate.
When I share this year about PASSION, the colors will be warm.

Recently when PASSION tapped me on the shoulder
there was an article in our local paper, The Oregonian.
They shared a story about Gertrude Rempter.
Now I didn't know Gertrude, who recently died at 99 years.
What struck me in reading about her life was her PASSION
for a career in physics and microscopy.
She worked until weeks before her death in a lab at
Portland State University. "Her work on electron microscopes
aided the development of military night vision goggles and her advice
was coveted among industry professionals from Tektronix and other tech companies."
Her son stated, "She wasn't a (militant) feminist; she just quietly went ahead and
did what she knew she or any woman should be able to do."
She also raised five children, had horses and chickens on an eight-acre farm, baked pies,
and made jam. What an amazing, passionate woman.

When I am 99 years, I would love to be remembered as a woman of PASSION,
who "did what she knew she or any woman should be able to do."

***********
My friend krys has a lovely give away going on.
Visit http://kryskirkpatrickdesign.blogspot.com/ to check it out.
Krys is also a woman of PASSION.

Lights of Winter

2012-01-02T09:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

As we leave behind the glitter of the holiday season
and enter a time of darkness, I am reminded
of how important light is to us all.
Light brings me great JOY
and guides me through the dark nights.
So I am remembering to light candles
and stringing a few of the twinkling lights of the holidays
around my house.
What are you doing to light your way through the time of darkness?
What brings you JOY during this time?

My Word for 2012

2011-12-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

As many of you know BELIEVE was my word for 2011.
Most of the year I thought about things I believed in,
but as the year draws to an end I realized the biggest lesson
learned was to BELIEVE in myself.
Lesson learned.

Recently as I was reviewing the year and beginning to plan
for next year, I made a list of those things I wanted to include in 2012.
As I was finishing up the list, my word just popped up unexpectedly.
At first it scared me alot.
But then I told myself after celebrating JOY in 2010
and BELIEVE in 2011, I was ready for a challenge.
Scary or not here it is: PASSION.
I am totally curious where this one will take me.
Right after I chose the word I found a set of CD's in my office
Finding Your Passion by Cheryl Richardson.
Whew! This must be the word speaking to me.
So here I go watching and observing this word for 2012.

The first thought, PASSION has the color of red; so I placed this word
in my red bowl just to see how it felt there.

So the process has begun.
Have you chosen a word for 2012?
It is amazing what adventures it can take you on.
Go ahead, challenge yourself.
Let me know how it goes and what word you have chosen.

Shall We Chat?

2011-12-28T06:52:00.000-08:00

Recently I walked through a greenhouse and on seeing these two orchids
I just knew they were chatt'n up a storm.
Tell me, please, what are they saying?
Are they chatting about the day?
Or about plans for the new year?
Or maybe, just maybe they are trying to decide what
their words will be for 2012.
What do you think?
Are you picking a word for 2012?
Mine is soon to be revealed.
I will be away making plans for the new year tomorrow,
but then the secret will be out on Friday.
Please do share your word too, if you decide to play along.
A word for the year can definitely be something special for the new year.
You never know where it will take you.

Christmas Music, the Best

2011-12-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaVAeJOPquE
Enjoy a short clip from an earlier concert,
but still similar each year.
This is a holiday tradition for my husband and I.
I love visiting the Old Historic Church here in Portland
and listening to the music of the season.
The stage is lined by these pretty candles with inspiration words.
I loved this one.
It was a very special evening spent surrounded by the sounds of Christmas.

My Mom's Persimmon Pudding

2011-12-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

When I was a young girl my mom would make Persimmon Pudding.
I had thought of it over the year's and remembered it fondly;
but didn't realize the recipe was tucked inside my recipe box.
One day, not so long ago, I saw it there and knew this year
we would have Persimmon Pudding for our Christmas celebration.
Yes, it was as I remembered, oh sooooo very good.
I thought maybe you would like the recipe too.

My Mom's Persimmon Steamed Pudding

1 cup persimmon pulp (took two persimmons)

1/2 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons melted butter

1 well beaten egg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 cup chopped nuts

3/4 cup raisins (I didn't have any, so used cranberries)

Put together in order and bake in casserole dish or pudding mold for 1 1/4 hours at 350 degrees oven.

Set dish or mold in a pan of water in the oven, so it will steam.

Note: We served it with vanilla ice cream, but a nice hard sauce or lemon sauce would be lovely.

Home for Christmas

2011-12-23T14:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas is always so special when spent in our own homes.
My daughter and her boyfriend took off today to share Christmas with his family.
So traditions never stay the same with changes through our lives.
Though they change, they still are special times spent with those we love.
As I enjoy a quiet time at home with my husband and son,
I wish for you a time of peace, quiet, laughter, dancing,
singing, and just pure JOY.
Yes, I still BELIEVE in the spirit of Christmas,
the baby in the manger, and
Santa and his gang of elves.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH OF YOU!

Glitter and Shine

2011-12-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

I just love the colors and glitter of this season.
Solstice evening has passed now,
the darkest night of the year.
My heart rejoices as light returns.
The darkness is past and the light returns.
May we all rejoice at this time in the return of the light.
Celebrate, Dance, put up your twinkling lights
and Rejoice as the light definitely will return!

This morning when I was reminded that the darkness is past
and the light would return, my heart jumped for JOY.
Celebrate the day!

Now I am wishing I bought a trinket or two from this bowl.
Aren't they just so happy and they do make my heart sing.

Running in Circles

2011-12-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

Do you sometimes feel like you are running in circles and not getting anywhere?
The holiday time can get like that so easily.
I do hope you are taking time to sit a spell and reflect on the year soon.
Has your word for 2012 made an appearance yet?
My word did come to me not too long ago and
I am looking forward to sharing it next week.
In the meantime enjoy the moments of each day
and remember to take some time for a cup of tea.

Pomeroy Farm

2011-12-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

It had been a couple years since I had been to Pomeroy Farm.
The anticipation was great as I made reservations for Christmas Tea.
What a special day to share with a friend and my daughter.
What a delight to sit and relax for awhile in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season.

We were served a yummy menu of their delicious scones, radish sandwiches, turkey sandwiches
with cranberry chutney, tomato sandwiches with pesto cream cheese, chocolate nut torte,
lemon curd tarts, trifle, and a Christmas cookie. There was plenty of tea to sip and savor.

After tea we had the opportunity to walk through the historic log house and see their collection of Santa's.

Are you doing something in this season to rest for awhile and savor?

Deepwood Estate

2011-12-19T08:37:00.000-08:00

What is Christmas?

It is tenderness for the past,

courage for the present,

hope for the future.

It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow

with blessings rich and eternal

and that every path may lead to peace.

Quote found framed on the wall at Deepwood Estate,

author unknown.

Friday my husband took me out for a special Christmas lunch with tea to the
Deepwood Estates in Salem, Oregon.
We arrived early and enjoyed time in the garden,
then ventured inside this beautiful home where we were served a delightful meal
of pork tenderloin with a honey mustard vinaigrette, roasted orzo and peas,
puff pastry mushroom tarts, roasted vegetables with Swiss cheese frittata,
fresh fruit salad with coconut rum sauce, and a dessert buffet.

What a lovely treat and special "out of the ordinary" day.
I hope each one of you has opportunity for an "out of the ordinary" day very soon.

Love Yourself First

2011-12-16T08:07:00.000-08:00

This holiday season, Love Yourself First!
Then that love will shine from your face
and warm those around you.
This is the best gift you can give yourself,
but a little treat doesn't hurt either, Just smiling!
So for the weekend I am going to remember to love
myself first and I hope you do too.
Sending hugs for a very special weekend full of love.
I am thankful for you.

Christmas Cup of Tea

2011-12-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

Soon it will be Christmas.
You know what that means.
The hustle and bustle is beginning to be noticed right here.
Remember, dear friends, to take a moment now and then,
for a cup of tea and a bit of a treat.
It doesn't have to be fancy.
Just look in your cupboard and find something sweet.
Enjoy a few minutes to just take a breath.
You will be glad you did and you know it is a gift to yourself.
So enjoy the day and have that cup of tea.
I am off now for my first cup of tea.
What will you put in your cup today?

A Few of my Favorite Things

2011-12-14T09:10:00.000-08:00

My gift today to you is to wander through Monticello Antique Mall here in Portland.
I hope you enjoyed the visit.
Double click on any picture to see more detail.
Don't they have a festive feel?
I just love wandering through here for there special events.
ENJOY!

Gifts for the Holidays

2011-12-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

Picture taken at a Garden Center Christmas Event; so yes there may be tags on things in pictures.

Last week our local newspaper had a list of Gift Ideas for Teachers.
Many of them I thought would be good for others in our lives.
I know I found an idea here for my hair dresser.
Enjoy the list.

1. A bag of coffee, TEA, or some hot chocolate mix.
2. Find a basket at the thrift shop and fill with fruit.
3. A plant or small tree decorated with ribbon.
4. A pass to a local attraction.
5. Movie passes
6. A journal with a note included from you.
7. Homemade treats, such as granola, cookies, or jam.
8. Flowers
9. Pick up card stock or nice paper and make personalized stationary
10. A donation to a charity in the persons name.
11. A gift card for use at a local group coupon website
12. A key chain with a light
13. Make a personalized calendar from an online photo site
14. A few nice pens, pencils, or art supplies

Some of the items I adjusted, so it doesn't say just to the teacher.
Any ideas to add to the list?

A Special Tea Party

2011-12-12T07:25:00.000-08:00

Thai Chicken Salad in Thai Celadon Spoons

Cucumber Sandwich

Veggie Spring Rolls with Plum Sauce

Pear Jellies

Persimmons and Pomegranates

The past weekend was tea party weekend here in my home.
Now as you can see it wasn't just an ordinary tea party, though we did have cucumber sandwiches.
It was the ninth year to serve tea to Lily and her family on a Saturday before Christmas;
but beside Lily and her family I served my women's group on Friday night
and another family on Sunday afternoon.
The theme this year was An Asian Holiday, inspired by my travels in Asia this year.
The table runner was a special gift from the family of a 90 year old woman
that use to swim in the class I attend. I treasure that gift.
The flower arrangements were inspired by arrangements I saw in a magazine while visiting Thailand.
In the top left hand picture in the collage you will see the set up for
giving a lesson for making tea with Lily and her brother.
It was fun event and one I look forward to all year.

This year I served the following:

Thai Chicken Salad
Veggie Spring Rolls
Marinated Tea Eggs
Noodle Bundles with Chicken
Crab and Avocado Sushi
Cucumber Wasabi Sandwiches
Baozhong Oolong Tea
Scones with cream and guava jam
Persimmon and Pomegranate Salad
Pear Jellies
Thai Steamed Banana Cake
Cranberry Autumn Tea or Candy Cane Lane Tea

We had a wonderful time sharing tea and food and conversation.
Do you celebrate the season with a special occasion shared with friends?
What do you look forward to each year?

Sitting by the Fire

2011-12-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

Above the mantle of our fireplace hangs a special quilt.
I am not sure where it came from, but when my mom moved out of her home it was sitting there.
The softness of years gone by are hanging here this year.
Added to the quilt are flags to represent a snowy day.
They are very easy to make and I love seeing them here.
Softly we step into the holiday season.
I hold my cup of tea and a special piece of cake,
listening to the music of the season.

Have a special day and take some time just to reflect and sip a favorite
cup of tea, hot chocolate, or coffee.
Sending warm blessings to you today!

Back to Bed and Tea

2011-12-08T07:28:00.000-08:00

It really is more a fantasy,
but I dream of lounging in bed some mornings
with a teapot full of tea.
Do you ever take your tea or coffee
and cozy up in bed?
Tell me how wonderful it is to do.
I dream of doing so.
Then I tell myself there might be crumbs or spilled tea;
plus really there is so much to do.
I really need to learn to treat myself sometimes
and have a leisurely start to my day,
maybe even take a book and savor the "me" time.
Do you find it difficult to make "me" time?
If you had "me" time, what would you do?

The Star of the Season

2011-12-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

Though poinsettias don't grow in the gardens of Oregon, we can enjoy them for the season
in flowerpots sitting in the house.
They can brighten up a dark corner or cheer a friend with a gift of their beauty.
Definitely they are the "star" and shine with the colors of the season.
Do you enjoy flowers in your home for the holidays?
What flowers shine for you?

It's Beginning to Look like Christmas!

2011-12-06T07:58:00.000-08:00

It is beginning to definitely look like Christmas here in my home.
The tree is shorter this year and sitting on a table.
I thought it would discourage little kittie paws, but I have still
seen that long arm reach out to bat a few.
Softness is the goal in my living room this year;
so I went with white, gold, silver, and just touches
of color. It is peaceful here and I am liking it.
Hope you enjoy the visit.

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

2011-12-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

I don't see one star in this picture, do you?
I can't help it!
Every time holiday lights start making an appearance,
I sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".
Why you ask?
It's the lights.
I love the lights during December and
yes, I start loving them after Thanksgiving is finished.
Am I too early?
I don't think so.
I need all the light I can get as the days become darker.
So this year I do BELIEVE I will leave my lights up all winter long.
In my heart I will be singing.
Come along with me and let your heart sing.

Walk Softly

2011-12-02T03:54:00.000-08:00

I stepped from the car onto a ground soft with fir needles.

The moss gave a cushion of hush and I knew they were there.

I walked softly through the trees in pursuit wondering

if I would see fairies here.
Speaking softly I asked them to come from hiding.

It was a quiet day and the sun shone through the clouds.

The perfect day to find them.

What is it? What have I found?

This must be their soaking tub, for it is just the right size.

Are they hidden nearby?
It looks as if they have slid from the tub and gently stepped away.
Oh I would have loved finding them here, but I must have been just minutes late.
For all I found here was a Christmas tree.
A tree so beautiful it glistens in the lights.
So come another day and I will share the tree the fairies shared with me.

Transferware Teacups

2011-12-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Sitting by the fire at this time of year with a beautiful winter scene on my cup.

This transferware teacup is "The Friendly Village"

by Johnson Bros., made in England.

"Rural Scenes" by Royal Staffordshire Pottery.

Recently I have fallen in love with English transferware teacups.
The second cup I wasn't sure I wanted at first, but I love it.
It just fits perfectly in my hand and so lovely for my morning cup of tea.
Now as I have said before, I don't collect teacups or teapots;
but I must say I have a weakness for transferware.
Do you collect teacups?
What style do you like?

I Do Believe

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

I do BELIEVE, yes I do!
My word for 2011 is BELIEVE.
It hasn't always been an easy word.
I knew I believed in God, Fairies, and Whimsy,
but what I didn't realize is that it would teach me
that I BELIEVE in me.

Then this following quote came along from Women Who Create
and I felt this was just perfect to fit with my belief in myself.

"I would rather have a mind opened by wonder

than one closed by Belief."

by Anahata Joy Katkin

What I am learning by believing in myself is to still keep that touch of wonder,
whimsy, and make-believe. To keep the childlike heart to discover
the little beauties of life.

Did you pick a word for 2011?
What are you learning from your word?
Are you planning to have a new word for 2012?

*pictures taken at Bella Flora, a place of whimsy and fairies.

Walk with me - Japanese Gardens

2011-11-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Walk with me.

Click on any picture you would like to see in more detail.

Yesterday the weather was just perfect for a walk.
Not just any walk, but a walk in the Japanese Gardens here in Portland, Oregon.
I have taken you to the Lan Su Chinese Gardens, but not to the Japanese Gardens.
It is above the Rose Gardens on the side of a hill looking down on Portland,
a lovely view indeed. Very peaceful on a Monday afternoon.
Have you taken a special walk lately?
Where do you like to walk?

Thanksgiving Table

2011-11-28T09:46:00.000-08:00

Really I don't mean to make you hungry, really I don't.
When I looked at the pictures it brought back fond memories.
I just couldn't help myself, I had to share.
The table was set with my grandfather's china full of daisies and violets.
The final dahlias from the garden were picked and tucked into low vases.
When the food looks like this how many flowers do you need?
The candles were nestled in popcorn kernels for a festive, golden look.
Pies were sitting nearby waiting their turn to shine,
but oh that turkey and the wonderful cranberry relish were stealing the show for sure.
Sharing good food and dear friends and family make this a very special holiday.

For those of you in the US that celebrate Thanksgiving,
I do hope it was shared with special loved ones
and your hearts were full of gratitude.

Tea for Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

For those of you that have followed me along for awhile,
you know that I traveled to Taiwan in May to visit tea farms.
Last week I was looking for some vases in the typical place
I keep my vases and I found this beautiful blue and white tin.
I had tucked it away and there it sat waiting to be discovered in the most unusual place.
It was decided this should be our Thanksgiving tea.
I was thankful for finding it again and the opportunity to share it with family and friends on this special day.

Inside the tin was a lovely Muzha Tiequanyin Oolong from Farmer Zheng.
It is not a floral oolong, which I have been drinking.
It has more body and a lovely after taste that is not at all bitter, just a lovely
slight sweetness. It reminded me so much of the time we spent with
Farmer Zheng with his lovely smile and enthusiasm for raising
Tiequanyin in the traditional ways of his father and his grandfather.
If you would like to try some of Farmer Zheng Tiequanyin Oolong teas
you can find them at The Floating Leaves in Seattle or HERE online.
You won't find this lovely tin, but you will find the wonderful tea inside.

Having friends and family sitting around my Thanksgiving table and sharing a cup of tea was pure DELIGHT.
I hope you were each blessed this Thanksgiving with pure DELIGHT.

Farewell Autumn Leaves

2011-11-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

"November comes 
And November goes, 
With the last red berries 
And the first white snows.

With night coming early, 
And dawn coming late, 
And ice in the bucket 
And frost by the gate.

The fires burn 
And the kettles sing, 
And earth sinks to rest 
Until next spring."

— Elizabeth Coatsworth

(thanks Elizabeth Knight for giving me this poem)

The leaves are almost all on the ground now.
They were spectacular here in Oregon this year.
Some years just shine and this Autumn definitely did that.
There are a few dried leaves sitting on my mantel for the pure pleasure
and still enjoying them.
May each of you have time to wish the leaves farewell for another season
with a walk or a picture singing their glory.
For they will return on another day and in a different form,
but be assured, they will return to dazzle us again.
Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

Play in Fairyland

2011-11-22T10:03:00.000-08:00

Saturday I had the opportunity to play in fairyland.

Oh what fun I had making my little bird with an attitude in wool.

There were 3 students and 1 leader of the fairies to take us into the land of fairies.

One made the beautiful bird, another made a bird that turned into a turtle,

and I made the bird in the middle. What fun we had, escaping the land of humans

for just a few hours. I highly recommend finding the land of the fairies and playing awhile.

Now you can see here fairies don't always live in holes in trees,
but sometimes they play in little rooms packed with goodies and fun delights.
So if you come to Portland, Oregon one of these days,
we really must escape to this fairyland of delights.
If you are searching on your own, this delightful place is called
Bella Flora and is located on N.E. Fremont Street.
Another day we can return here for more pictures, there is so much to see.

Sittn' in the Light

2011-11-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

Sweet Chrysanthemum

 Pink Delight brings great JOY.
It's sittn' in the light.
God's light shines down on it
and it is glorious!

Anticipating the holidays and

bursting with laughter of time spent with family and friends.

Do you have plans this week that involve

family and friends?

Oh, do tell.

The time is near for turkey, then mistletoe.

******************

And the winner of Dainty Dining is: 
Tracy from Prana Light
Tracy, please send me your address 
and the book will be on it's way to Norway.

Dainty Dining

2011-11-18T07:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I received Dainty Dining by Angela Webster McRae in the mail.
I was so excited to get my hands on it, as I had known it was in the works
for awhile. Angela put together a lovely tribute to America's department store
tearooms of the past with lovely pictures and recipes too.
This does bring back fond memories of peaking in the doors of some of these
department store tearooms and wishing I could have tea there.
Now I can step inside and savor each moment through Angela's lovely book.

As a special celebration I have an extra book to give to one of my readers.
Please leave a comment here and I will announce the winner on Monday morning.
If you are interested in purchasing a book visit Angela at Tea with Friends blog for more information.

You can also follow Angela's blog Tea with Friends for new adventures in tea.

Teacup Thursday

2011-11-17T08:31:00.000-08:00

I love the colors of these simple cups.
They always cause me to smile when I see them stacked just so on my shelf.
What's extra special about them is that they were made probably about the 1950's
in California. We find so many teacups made in England, China, or Japan;
but how often do we see cups made in California or the USA.
Under the saucer it says: Early California, Authentic Vernonware, Made in USA.

This holiday season of gift buying coming up, my thoughts are going
more and more to shopping local.
So this morning it is fun to be sipping from a teacup made in California, USA.

Do any of my tea drinking friends have teacups made in the USA?

Sending Love

2011-11-16T09:26:00.000-08:00

Sending love this Wednesday to each of you.
When I am out walking and kicking up the leaves,
I love seeing these heart shaped leaves hanging there.
Take time today to notice the small things.
Just saying, get out there and enjoy the day.
I am on my way.

Autumn Leaves

2011-11-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

When you were a child, did you love running and kicking up the autumn leaves?
Does the child in you still love kicking up those leaves?
Mine does.
Recently I was out walking and kicking up those leaves.
Walking by the university in my neighborhood there was a huge mound of leaves.
There was a student there spraying water on the leaves.
I turned to him and said, "if you weren't spraying water on those leaves
I do believe I would need to jump into that pile".
He looked at me strangely and said, "you would want to jump into a pile of compost?".

So young and yet he had lost his child's heart.
It is all in the perception.
Do you still have that child's heart that wants to jump into a pile of autumn leaves?

Happiness

2011-11-14T09:13:00.000-08:00

The passion flower.

Happiness is a sunbeam which may pass through a thousand bosoms

without losing a particle of its original ray; nay,

when it strikes on a kindred heart, like the converged

light on the mirror, it reflects itself with redoubled brightness.

It is not perfect till it is shared.
Quote by Jane Porter

When happiness shines through our face and shines with a smile
that is pure passion.
Quote by Me

Dance

2011-11-11T07:29:00.000-08:00

Do you say TGIF or Thank Goodness It's Friday?
Do you look forward to dancing in the sunlight or in fresh falling snow of the weekend?
Do you make small celebrations on Saturday and Sunday?

I love the image of dancing and mention it often here.
There is just something that makes my heart sing when I imagine it.
What special something do you have planned for the weekend?
I hope it makes your heart sing and laugh with JOY!

And the winner of my cozy pattern is: amherstrose
Congratulations to you!

Tea with my Mom

2011-11-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

Steph at Steph's Cup of Tea is hosting Tea and Truth

this month. It is a weekly writing that involves tea.

What you will read below is my writing last week.

I hope you enjoy it. Yes, that little bird did fly by my

window just as I was finishing this wonderful assignment.

Visit Steph to learn more HERE.

My mom has been invited to tea and soon she will be here. The tea is ready. I hear a knock on the door. Welcome Mom, come into tea. I wanted you to join me today because I want to tell you I love you and share a cup of tea. It has been so long since we shared tea together. Do you remember the times? There was a time when I was going into 6th grade and the little ladies that owned the house we would rent served us tea. It was a special time, just you and me.

No, I didn't fill your cup very full, but it is full to the brim with love for you.

I am so happy you like it. I made a special oolong brought home from Taiwan earlier this year. I know how much you love flowers and this tea tastes like a cup full of flowers. Do you agree? Oh yes, it is beautiful and filled with light and sweetness.

Do you remember after we moved into that little house on Bird Street and times would be hard, you would bring out the teapot and Lipton teabags, maybe even toast strips and we would sip, laugh, and raise our pinkies pretending to be rich ladies? It is a fond memory I have of tea with you.

I am so happy you came for tea today. I so wanted to tell you I love you and I wanted to share this ritual that means so much to me. Yes, it is my morning pot of tea.

Aren't the pink roses pretty on the cups? I always felt your color was pink, so I wanted you to have pink roses this morning. They do make my heart sing too, as I knew they would for you. Winter is coming and there are crystals on the ground. The candle is burning to give us more light on this cold fall morning.

Just one more cup you say. Is it getting cold? Let's sit for just a while longer, sip our tea, and enjoy the silence of the morning.

Did you see my red necked hummingbird flutter by the window? Did you fly away with him? I love you, Mom. May your spirit fly free on the wings of the little one. Come anytime for tea, you are always welcome.

Don't forget the give away I mentioned on Monday. Leave a comment on that post for the opportunity to win one of my sewing patterns.

Gift Giving

2011-11-09T09:16:00.000-08:00

A favorite Shaker song, which I have framed on my wall in my office is Simple Gifts. It was written
by Elder Joseph Brackett and is considered a dancing song. I sometimes use the words dance, dance where
it says turn, turn.

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free

'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,

And when we find ourselves in the place just right,

'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.

When true simplicity is gain'd,

To bow and to bend we shan't be asham'd,

To turn, turn will be our delight,

Till by turning, turning we come 'round right

I love these words and the tune is lovely too.

Earlier this week someone sent me a list of gifts we could give for the upcoming
holiday season that support our local businesses.
I have given this a lot of thought and wanted to share some of the gift ideas here.
Here is my list for today, though more could be added to it as we go along.
Please leave comments on other ideas to be added to the list.

1. Gift baskets of locally grown produce
2. Make a gift that someone would love
3. Support a local artist or musician by buying their art or music
4. Gift certificates:
hairdresser or barber
massage
local restaurants
oil change at a locally owned shop
cleaning lady for a day
5. Your time to take someone shopping or serve a special meal
6. Tickets for the local car wash
7. Tickets for a special event
8. Books from a local author or purchased at a locally owned book store
9. Tickets to do yard work or mow someones lawn in the summer
10. Driveway plowed on a snowy day
11. Make a donation to a local charity in your friends name

OK, your turn.

Don't forget to leave a comment on Monday's give away too.

Maybe the winner could make tea cozies for gift giving.

Seeking Beauty in Everyday Life

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

From cherylrichardson.com

The Purpose of Living

This morning I made myself a cup of tea and settled into the sofa to review some of the episodes on Charlie Rose last week. I found an interview with Joan Didion, author of A Year of Magical Thinking and her new book Blue Nights. As I watched their conversation unfold, Charlie asked this acclaimed writer a powerful question: "Joan, what do you live for?" As I watched Didion take her time to thoughtfully consider his question, I waited for her response to such a loaded question. The first words out of her mouth were:

"I live largely for certain small moments. Moments of great beauty in the world..."

I took a deep breath, pressed pause, and stared at the television set. Wow, I thought, that about sums it up for me.

To me, moments of great beauty can include an unexpected visit from a deer in the back yard, the eye-to-eye deep connection felt with a loved one, or the exquisite pain of sadness experienced while saying goodbye to something or someone I love. These are the moments that stay with me, that touch me deeply.

Toward the end of the interview, Charlie asked another powerful question: "When you look back over this life, would you have done anything dramatically different? Again, Didion carefully considered his question before she answered. "I would have spent more time appreciating those small things."

What a way to start a Sunday - considering such questions. So, I ask you: What do you live for? What are your moments of great beauty? And are you appreciating what you live for?

****************

Each week on Sunday I receive Cheryl Richardson's newsletter.

If you notice in my header it says

"Seeking Beauty in Everyday Life".

When I read this from Cheryl I knew I had to share with you.

I hope you enjoyed it.
Go out today and notice the great beauty around you.

PS - Oops! This was my post for Tuesday, but it came up early.
Enjoy for an extra day!
Don't forget the give away mentioned on my first Monday post.

Sewing Patterns for Tea Lovers

2011-11-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

With the upcoming holiday season I thought I would mention
my business. I don't often mention it, but have the link on my sidebar.
I have had several comments recently on this blog asking where to
find my sewing patterns for tea lovers. Because the request came from
Anonymous, I am responding here.
If you like to sew gifts for the holidays or other times during the years,
Marmalady's has 8 great sewing patterns including a pattern for the
above tea cozy. Next year I hope to add more patterns to the line.
You can find the sewing patterns, plus other tea lovers gifts at:
www.marmaladys.com

Thanks for visiting me there and everyday
here at Delights of the Heart. I love hearing from
you and having you visit.
Just as a thank you, if you leave a comment
today on this post I will send a sewing pattern for
this cozy to the name that gets drawn on Friday morning.

Neighborhood Walk

2011-11-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

Often I visit other blogs and enjoy the walks in your neighborhoods.
I walk in my neighborhood about 4 times a week, but become
complacent to what I see. Yesterday I took my camera along
just to share my neighborhood with you. I hope you enjoyed it.

If you are in the neighborhood come on by for my Holiday Sale today and tomorrow.
There will be some good prices on Jam, Books, and Teapots.

Green Tea

2011-11-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

Helen Gustafson wrote The Green Tea User's Manual,
which was published in 2001. What I am sharing today is from
her book. Helen was the tea buyer for Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California
and was instrumental in much of the early education in the tea movement.

Green tea has become increasingly popular in the United States, drunk not only
for its delightful taste but for its myriad health benefits. Many think there is only one green
tea, but indeed there are many different types, such as: Gunpowder, Sencha, jasmine, roasted
teas, simple green teas, and the popular Japanese Gen Mai Cha, made with popped rice and
green tea.

A quote from her section in the book on The Joys of Green Tea:

When the water boils for the first time,

something akin to the eyes of a fish appear on the surface

and a faint hissing sound can be heard.

Then the gurgling brook develops

with a string of pearls round the edge

This is the second boiling.

Then the turbulent waves appear: this is the third boiling.
quote by Lu Yu in A.D. 780

Most green teas taste best when the water is somewhere in the Fish Eyes (160-180 F) through
String of Pearls (180-190 F) range. Experiment with green tea varieties and temperatures
and I do believe you will find delight.

Dreaming

2011-11-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks for suggestions yesterday for surviving the darkness of winter.
One thing I like to do is dream of traveling to warm places.
I think this year I will make a collage of
those places and collect pictures on Pinterest
of warm places to travel to.
Then maybe a trip will come along,
but for now I will dream.

If you traveled to a warm place, where would it be?

Golden Days before the Darkness

2011-11-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

One thing you might not know about me,
I am a girl of sunshine.
Growing up in California
I lived outdoors.
Right now I am enjoying the glowing
golden leaves of Autumn,
but too soon the time will change,
the days will be shorter, and
we will not see many signs of the sun.
I start burning candles for some extra light
and I have thought of getting a light box.

How do you make it through the dark months?
What do you do to bring sunshine into your life
and keep a smile on your face?
I really want to make it through the winter more graciously,
so any tips would be appreciated.

Happy first day of November!
This photo was taken recently at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens.
Tea at these little tables always gives me a smile.

Dancing in the Leaves

2011-10-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

Glass pumpkins, perfect for an October day.

October, Store-Keeper

by Ethel Romig Fuller

October is the keeper

of a bargain store

See the orange posters

At the windows and the door.

Within are piles of remnants,

Some faded, it is true,

By a summer's wear and tear;

Some as good as new.

Mill-ends of dahlia satin,

Chiffon of thistledown,

Cloth of goldenrod enough

For a party gown.

Zinnia ribbon yard lengths-

Note prices on the tags!-

Fringed with asters, they would make

The most distinctive bags.

And trays of lacquered rose haws

And watermelon seeds-

Could any combination be 

Lovelier for beads?

I hope your October was dressed in the most beautiful of finery
and you felt like dancing in the leaves.
Happy Halloween!

The Dollhouse Project

2011-10-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

I knew my Dollhouse Project for October had to involve a pumpkin.
I wanted a scary house in black sitting on my porch.
Since it was my first time to paint on the pumpkin
it was a bit messy; but I decided that just made it more scary.

Are you decorating for Halloween?
Do you like scary things?
Have you ever seen a BatCat?

Joey's really humiliated and wouldn't open his eyes,
but he still sends Happy Halloween thoughts your way.

Whatever you are doing to celebrate,
enjoy the weekend and play~

Evening tea in the Garden House

2011-10-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

The garden house welcomed me in.
It invited me to have tea as the sun began to set.
As I have walked many times past this
sweet garden house it has beckoned me in.
Before the weather turned cold I had to sit
outdoors for tea once more.
The air had a sense of crispness,
but it welcomed me there in the candle light.
A lovely Yunnan Gold was sipped,
stories were shared, and there was peace in my heart.

Do you find places you would like to just sit and
watch the sun go down?
It is always special when shared with a friend
and a delightful cup of tea.

If you missed the walk in this garden,
please step back a day and you can enjoy my neighbors garden.
Thanks so much to my neighbor that so willingly let me step inside her gate
and spend some time here.
This is one of those opening the door experiences and
I am so glad I asked.

Autumn Garden

2011-10-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

A couple years ago I shared a peek into this garden with you.
Recently, as I was walking by, I met the owner of the garden.
I asked if I could come back and photograph her garden just for you.
I just knew you would want some quiet time in the garden today.

There were apples on her tree when I met her,
but when I went back they were sitting on the table.
I think this gardener has a kind heart and was sharing
with the wild life in her neighborhood.

Some of the fence posts had bird houses.
What a welcoming sign.

Then a place to sit awhile must be included in any garden,
don't you agree?
This garden is the perfect place to sit a while.
Come back tomorrow and sit with me here.
We can share a cup of tea.

Wonder Brings JOY

2011-10-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

The perfect celebration of Autumn, hot spiced/caramel apple cider with Rice Krispie treats.

Thinking about the up coming season with tea and peppermint stick bark.

Skittles are full of color and fun anytime of the year.

Halloween is just around the corner,
a perfect time for a caramel apple.

Are you hungry yet?
This past weekend I had great fun at a food photography workshop.
Loved the quote inside my cup.
Wonder does in fact bring JOY.

Autumn Adventure in the Country

2011-10-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

A bucket full of zinnias.

There were clouds and sunshine all mixed together.

A perfect day to find the "great pumpkin".

Color was shining too.

Do country roads beckon you in Autumn?
Saturday I just couldn't resist a drive in the country.
I was searching for the "great pumpkin"
and color.
I do believe I found it along with a bucket of zinnias to hug and
a pile full of laughing children.
The country side was humming with children of every age,
but I did find some quiet places to soak it in and enjoy
an Autumn day in the country.

Deepwood Estates, a final peek

2011-10-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

Visiting the Deepwood Estates in Salem, Oregon was definitely a treat.
I thought you would just like to take one final peek through the house.
I especially love the sun room.
Can't you just imagine sitting there on a sunny day sipping a lovely iced tea
and reading a juicy book?
Of maybe on a cold day sitting before that beautiful double flue fireplace
with a warm cup of tea, a quilt over your lap, and again a book to read?

Happy weekend, dear friends~
May it be a special time of autumn celebration.

Tea Time at Deepwood

2011-10-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

There were signs all about.
Deepwood Estates has a love affair with tea sipping.
Beautiful tea ware and sweets were sitting about.
They were prepared to sit a spell and enjoy the moments.
A beautiful place indeed and perfect for sipping tea.
Visit there website to see when opportunities for tea come along.
http://www.historicdeepwoodestate.org/

You definitely won't be disappointed. The surroundings are beautiful too!

I BELIEVE, yes I do!

2011-10-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I do BELIEVE in fairies, yes I do.
Do you?
Do you believe in the fantasy of life,
the make believe story telling of children?
That singing in your heart?
Do you?
I do!

Opening Doors

2011-10-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

When I look at a door I wonder what is behind it.
Do you do that too?

Recently I have been thinking what would make my heart sing in the next 5 or 10 years.
Have you stopped to think about that at times in your life?
Sometimes it can be rather scary when I write it down.
It takes my breathe away and I cannot even whisper
my dreams. I dream of opening some of those doors,
maybe two or three would do.
My heart dreams of being more creative
and living life more fully.
Those are generalizations, but what
I wrote underneath is still too scary to say.
But the final word on the list is passion!
Live life more passionately!
I am not sure where that will take me,
but there I said it, the door is squeaking open.
Care to join me in opening some doors?

Falling in Love

2011-10-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Zinnia's have never been a favorite of mine,
but for reason unknown to myself I am falling in love with them this autumn.
I just want to search out buckets and buckets of them,
then hug them to my chest.
They are just singing to my soul,
Chrysanthemums and pumpkins do each year;
but zinnia's, now that is a surprise.
What is singing to your heart this autumn season?

Walk in the Garden

2011-10-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

A walk in the garden is always so special when spent with four other bloggers.
Wednesday was an occasion to walk in this garden.
The dew was on the plants and it was an amazing autumn day.
I was struck by the color of the geranium and the berries.
But stepping inside the Deepwood Estate, we would be
given a treat of sights from another time.
Then it was off to lunch with these blogging gals and with
cameras all around pictures were taken.
Meeting blogging gals is always so fun
and for another day I will share more of this special day in the garden.

Are you taking any walks in the garden,
enjoying the crisp days of autumn?
Have a delightful weekend and take time to enjoy time outdoors.

Chocolate and Tea

2011-10-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

Pairing Tea with Chocolate just makes sense when you sit in a workshop
with Lisa Richardson of Lisa Knows Tea. I had the opportunity "slow down and think"
with Lisa at the NW Tea Festival.
She instructed us to put the chocolate in our mouth and suck, not chew,
letting the chocolate melt in your mouth, then sip the tea.
We started with the lightest and worked our way to the darkest.
She suggested that we might want to look at matching lightness to lightness or
we might appreciate a contrast in flavors.
She shared a quote by Lu Yu - "for the mouth to decide".
Indeed it is for the mouth to decide which combinations you might like,
but definitely chocolate and tea is a very good thing.

With the white chocolate we paired it with a light oolong.
With the milk chocolate we paired it with an amber oolong, medium oxidation.
With the dark chocolate we paired it with a Golden Yunnan and a Puer.
With the bittersweet chocolate we had Makibari 2nd flush Darjeeling.

Now I have two chocolates and alot of different teas in my cupboard.
The chocolates are a Dark Milk from the Philippines
and thin slices of pear dipped in key limes, then dipped in a bittersweet chocolate.
In the next few days I will be experimenting to see which tea enhances the flavor
of these two teas.

Take the adventure and see what you can find.
Maybe you can find the perfect chocolate to pair with a Lapsong Souchong?
I am curious. Let me know.

Note: The small pot in the top pictures was found yesterday on an excursion
to a thrift/antique mall. They said it was a creamer, but for $3.50 I thought it
would make a nice small teapot. It was also made in the USA, which I always like.

Juggling?

2011-10-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

Are there days when you feel like you are juggling too many balls?
Seeing these balls that was exactly what I felt.
Oh and they are a heavy load too.
What do you do when you feel like this?
How do you remedy this feeling of being out of control?

Now you know me as the tea lady and yes!
that is exactly what I do.
I lock myself in my office, shut the door,
wrap my hands around a warm cup of tea,
stare into space, and sip.
Try it, it really works.
Take 10 minutes and it will do wonders.

BELIEVE and Dance

2011-10-11T06:32:00.000-07:00

Promise me you'll always remember:

You're braver than you believe,

and stronger than you seem,

and smarter than you think.

~Christopher Robin to Pooh

So let's put our dancing dress on

and dance. Dance through the tears,

dance in the dark, and dance till

the sun comes up!

WuWo Tea Ceremony

2011-10-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

October is the celebration of Tea at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens in Portland, Oregon.
I have shared the gardens with you many times and I have shared the WuWo Tea Ceremony too.
This is the first time they have come together in this beautiful time of celebration.
Several of us met at the gardens on Saturday.
It was a perfect Autumn day. We shared tea with those that observed and
one of the women in our group shared with the visitors the ceremony as the rest of us
demonstrated. It was so fun to share tea with those visiting the gardens.
On the tray were the 5 teas we were brewing, each of us a different one.
The larger pots were tea shared with those around us.

Wuwo is done in silence.
A shared time of selflessness.
Three steeps of each small teapot,
then shared with the three to your left.
It is an outdoor tea ceremony.
At the end of the time of tea,
often a poem or reading takes place.

The reading for Saturday was:

An ideal place for tea drinking is amongst simple furniture and diffused lights

with soft music to enhance it.  What is most important is that everyone must feel at ease and

comfortable, being in the mood to savor the original and natural flavor of the tea.

~Ling Ping Xiang

Reflections

2011-10-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

The reflection in the mirror reminded me of a day gone by.

A day where I was a child.

Days where I loved to hear stories of the reflection of another.

I would visit our neighbors, Mr. Elder and his two sisters.

We would climb the narrow, windy stairs to his special room full of books,

a wood burning stove, and a jar full of candy.

He would share stories of a time gone by.

A time spent living in San Francisco during the earthquake of 1906.

Oh the images he would create.

Then it was back down those stairs where his sisters would serve tea in the parlour.

The parlour was full of windows, more books and stories.

There usually were fresh cookies from the oven and beautiful cups of tea.

As a child I loved the experience of visiting with these three,

but not until now have I realized what a treasure they were.

Do you have memories from your childhood that you treasure now?

People of Tea

2011-10-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

Whenever I attend a tea event my favorite part is connecting with the people of tea.
Oh yes, I do like the tea too, but I love seeing tea friends too.

Starting in the top left corner and moving clockwise:

Faith Baldwin of Chado Tea
Faith was inspired almost 10 years ago to start Take Me to Tea in Las Vegas,
which later became the World Tea Expo.
Pearl Dexter of Tea a Magazine and Ako Yoshino
Pearl is the editor of Tea a Magazine and was attending the tea festival to support
the booth focusing on Japanese teas.
Ako was part of the Japanese tea group and gave a wonderful demonstration
on the Japanese Tea Ceremony.
Evonne of Tao of Tea
Evonne was there for the Tao of Tea tea tasting and booth.
She can be seen serving tea most days at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens in Portland.
Lisa Richardson of Lisa Knows Tea
Lisa has written two very nice books on tea, one of which is sold on my website.
Becky of Tea Pleasure
Becky gave a lovely presentation on Zen Tea, which comes from the region of China where her family lives.
James Norwood Pratt and myself of Marmalady's
Norwood is the consummate tea author and I would highly recommend his Tea Lover's Treasury book for learning more about the world of tea.
I started Marmalady's about 9 years ago and is primarily an online tea shop.
Amy Lawrence and her mom of An Afternoon to Remember
Amy had a very successful tearoom in the Sacramento, California area for many years
and now is a tea speaker, has an online shop, and attends many events selling her tea products.

When I first started getting involved in the world of tea, I was so surprised that there were
special, notable people of tea. I have learned from many of them and now treasure their friendships.

NW Tea Festival

2011-10-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

In the shadow of this famous landmark, The Space Needle, I attended the NW Tea Festival this
past weekend. There was a small display of my Tea Party in your Cupboard and my Marmalady's
sewing patterns for tea lovers.
It was a fun event for tea lovers from many regions of the US.
Some came from the east coast and California, plus many from the Pacific Northwest.
There were tea tastings, speakers, book signings, and classes that included many different subjects
from Pairing Chocolate with Tea to a demonstration on Japanese Tea Ceremony.

It is always fun to taste teas from around the world
and there were some real treats here.
There were four tastings that I participated in:
3 Rare Chinese Teas by Silk Road Teas
First Flush Darjeeling Teas
Indian Teas by Chado Teas
Rare and Obscure Teas

The one tea that I tasted in two of the tastings and was attractive to my palate
was a First Flush Darjeeling called Risheehat Colonal Organic Tea.
It had a lovely floral, spring freshness that was quite lovely.
What surprised me about this tea is that I don't usually like Darjeeling teas,
especially first flush (first picking of the spring); so there is always room
to change the mind and learn something new. There really wasn't any for sale,
as it is rather rare; but I was able to buy what was left of the sample they brought
and enjoyed it this morning with my scones.

Joey Blogging

2011-10-04T07:02:00.000-07:00

My mommy is away from the computer right now;
so I thought I would show you where I am hiding.
She doesn't know I am here, but it is warm and
cozy in this bed.
Don't tell her, because she doesn't like me to crawl
in under the covers.
But while she is away I will wait right here for my mommy to come home.
She says she will be home later today.
She said she was in Seattle at the NW Tea Festival.
Maybe she will tell me all about it, but for sure
I know she will share with you.
Oh, but then I get hugs sitting on her lap while she writes to you.
I am sending you a "meow" and a "hello" from under the covers here.

A Child's Heart

2011-10-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

When I came upon these flags recently I could see the heart of children here.
They were happy hearts.
Hearts singing with nature.
Laughing hearts,
Singing hearts.

The flags brought a smile to my face and I could see their hearts hanging here.
My heart cries at times for the children that have heavy hearts.
I would love to lift them up and let them fly with these flags.
Could they feel the joy here and lighten their heavy hearts?
Could they learn to play here and be nurtured by the nature
displayed here?
Could we hold them in our arms and comfort them?
I dream of a day when all children will have lighter hearts
that sing and feel the joy as these children did.

Flowers

2011-09-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite quotes:

Plant your own garden

and decorate your own soul,

instead of waiting for

someone to bring you flowers.

~Veronica A. Shoffstall

I have often thought of this quote as I walk
through my garden picking flowers for the house.
Yes, all the flowers in this bouquet came from my garden.
They bring me such joy to see in the house, but
I know if I am to decorate my own soul
(bring joy in my heart)
I must do it for myself.
Sometimes I want
someone to pick me up and carry me
and decorate for me, but I am the one that must
do it for myself.

These flowers decorate my world and bring a smile on my face.

Chuckle of the Day

2011-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Silly, I know; but can't resist the comics when it has to do with tea.
Have a good day, whether you have one lump, two lumps, or none.
Smiling!

Mooncakes and Pomegranites

2011-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

With the last full moon the Lan Su Chinese Gardens had an evening fund-raiser.
There were about 15 restaurants in town serving small bite foods.
There was everything from mooncakes, cupcakes, spring rolls, and tea.
I just loved visiting the garden in the evening and thought the red of the tablecloths
and the blue lanterns made for a very festive evening.
We were able to wander the garden, take pictures, but most of all nibble at each table.
What fun to sample from so many restaurants and discover some new ones we
didn't know about.
There isn't much better than good food, nice music, warm cloudy evening,
and candle light.
I will miss those summer evenings, but looking forward to what is
coming with pumpkins and goblins to celebrate fall.