A Cup of Emp-TEA Nest Syndrome

Hello TEA Friends!

This morning I am sampling the last of my Harrod's Earl Grey. It's the end of my cherished loose tea supply from our London trip two years ago and I'm savoring every moment with those last few choice tea leaves before moving on to new, uncharted alternatives.

If this seems like a poorly contrived metaphor for my current "empty nest" syndrome, I will confess wholeheartedly, it is. Two weeks ago, we drove our youngest, and only daughter, Rachel, to her college dorm and her new life away from home. There was so much excitement and preparation leading to that incredible day, it gave my always-fully-charged emotional being something to be diverted by. There were the stream of graduation parties where the college-bound celebrated their independence at the pool or badminton net, while we parents stared at the poster collages and scrapbooks of our children's milestones. Here, we looked at the pictures of kindergarten graduation and literally turned the page to senior prom, shaking our collective heads in disbelief and wondered aloud, "where had the time gone?", thinking it such revelation rather than a tired, old cliche.

Then, there was the overnight college orientation that ran so smoothly, both moms and daughters left less anxious than when they arrived. With a feel for the campus - class schedule in hand - and a few new friends, it all seemed okay.

And, finally, there were the trips to Target and IKEA for domestic dorm furnishings and accessories, along with the texting coordination of who was bringing what appliance to share. Items were checked off the list in an orderly fashion and we were confident we were ready for the big day.

The hour long trip to campus went quickly and we were all eager to see what dorm Rachel had been assigned. She and her roommate were designated their second choice, the oldest dorm at the school. When Rachel unlocked the door for the first time, we were in awe of what was to become her home away from home. This dormitory is every image you conjure up when you think about college, from the ivy colored brick to the large bay windows with crank out handles. These were the buildings that were erected before the cookie-cutter efficiency of the later years. What these room lacked in "loft ready" furniture and suite bathrooms, they made up for in charm and uniqueness - much like their inhabitants, Rachel and Annabelle. With their Rory Gilmore sensibilities of unconventionality and the love of old movies, arcane trivia and tomes of all a varieties, this place was a perfect match.

So, after a send off lunch and hugs and good-byes that seemed too short and insufficient, my husband and I and our son, Matt (who had volunteered to come to help move things as well see his little sister off) headed back to the parking lot where we had violated the 20-minute time allowance. In retrospect, I think the time was set for physically moving things, the "good-bye time" was open to interpretation.

The ride home, and the week that followed, was tough. I kept hearing that song my husband I would listen to occasionally on Sunday Morning Over Easy on the radio. With my apologies to the artist, its refrain goes something like this: ". . . after the kids are gone, all I'm left with is two dogs as dumb as mud and you. . ."

Well, we have two dogs and, though I don't question their canine intelligence, they don't fill up the room with giggles or ask if I would like to watch Season Four of the Gilmore Girls for the tenth time or share a cup of herbal tea for no reason at all. I come home from work and feel lost without the happy chaos. Last year, at this time, my oldest son had moved back temporarily to save money while in his senior year of college. Son number two, was home almost every other weekend for dinner or laundry and Rachel, of course, was just starting her last year of high school. Our house was running at 100 mph and we were back in the old routine of meal planning and car parking logistics. It was the most comfortable of zones.

But, now, the house is quiet and it's going to take some time to transition, for sure. We're comforted by the fact that Rachel has an expanding network of friends, is enthusiastic about her course schedule and is already participating in student political meetings. She can get to classes now without a map and is in walking distance to fulfilling about any conceivable need. She's adjusting beautifully - now its our turn.

So, with today's tea, I'm adding a bit of honey to sooth an irritated throat - I think its seasonal allergies, but maybe it will also help with that persistent lump that doesn't seem to go away.

I'll fire up the tea kettle again and then join my husband on the deck and just do - well, heck, absolutely nothing! You know, there may just be a lot to look forward to with no one here but my husband. . . and two dogs as dumb as mud!

Enjoying an off-campus tea toddy and latte at Cappuccino Cafe with College Student Rachel - All good after two weeks of college life (for both Mom and daughter!)

More Unique Tea Cozies from Barb's TEA Shop

Hello TEA Friends!

We're excited here at BTS to introduce three brand new tea cozies! Our inventory is depleting, but we're adding different designs all the time. Our three new offerings (pictured at right) are delightfully unique: a V-shaped, multi-stripe in a velvety-like texture; a yellow and cream leaf motif, and a geometric landscape pattern. (Note: these will fit your medium sized teapots).

Remember, these are "one-of-a kinds" that you won't find at any department or super stores. Give your favorite tea enthusiast a gift that's both beautiful and practical with these charming cozies. Or better yet, treat yourself to something special at your tea table.

Prices for these are $25.00 plus shipping and handling.

Contact Barb's TEA Shop at barb@barbsteashop.com or 248-840-4356 to place your order today!

Tea for Two's a Collection

Greetings Friends!

As a lifelong collector of many things, I subscribe to a few observations that have been attributed to this past time. The first is, if you have two of anything, you've got the start of a collection. The second is, that most collections start as a gift from someone. It probably wouldn't surprise you to learn that my most recent collection fits this description to, well, . . . to a tea!

After all these years as a tea enthusiast, I never really had a tea cup collection of high regard, although, I had amassed several tea cup display racks over the years in my aspiration to achieve such a goal. I will confess, I was distracted along the way with cherished teddies, Maude Humphrey figurines, limited edition Hallmark ornaments and, what I'll call "The Doll Years". But, I got closer on track with my assortment of Wedgwood jasperware and really zoned in when I targeted teapots. But the teacup collection, for whatever reasons, still eluded me.

That is until last year - and from such an unexpected source it emerged! For Mother's Day last year, my son, Rob, gave me my first vintage teacup. It was a wonderful gift - not only because of its delicate beauty and color, but the fact that he actually entered an antique store to purchase it. He was visiting a resort town on the west side of Michigan and noticed an antique storefront window display of teacups. He thought, "My Mom would love this store!" and figured it would be the perfect place to find a Mother's day treasure. (This is from a son who usually struggles with such holidays because they feel "forced".)

Naturally, this became one of my most prized possession (note, it is the solid green cup in the photos above, but inside there is a scene from the "famous Hamilton Rock Gardens".) I took my cherished cup and put it on display on a small tea table in our front room. There it resided, alone, for almost an entire year. Then came my birthday!

My sister-in-law, who lives in Denver, surprised me with another vintage tea cup for my 50th this year. She culled her own enviable tea cup collection for something she thought would best suit the occasion. And, she found such a treasure in a cup she had inherited from her grandmother, selected primarily because of its predominate color - gold! (to mark the half-century mark, of course).

When I opened the box from UPS that arrived in April, I was thrilled with the contents. I loved the "new" cup, but something more struck me immediately. This cup looked very familiar. In fact, upon further examination, it looked it could be a cousin to the one my son gave me.

So, I put them side-by-side and they were dead-ringers. Then, I looked at the stamps on the bottom of the cups. Identical markings! Both were stamped, "PARAGON" as well as "By appointment to HM the Queen". This was most incredible and sent me right to "google" to learn more.

I discovered that Paragon started out as "Star" China in 1899. It was founded by the Aynsley brothers in Longton, England. They produced quality china products including art deco patterns that competed with Shelly in the 1920's and 30's and a line of nursery-themed tea ware that is highly collectible today.

Star China later renamed itself "Paragon" to reflect the high quality of its product. Hugh Irving, a salesman at another china company, married a sister of the Aynsley brothers and became a partner. Later, the brothers retired and Irving and his sons took complete ownership. The Irving promotion skills grew the company and in 1933, Paragon was commissioned to make a tea service for the Duchess of York. That same decade, the company was granted two royal warrants (hence the notable stampings).

Paragon was bought out by Royal Albert in the 1960's, which in turn was bought out by Royal Dalton in the 1970's. The Paragon patterns were eventually incorporated in the designs of Royal Dalton and the Paragon name was discontinued. However, many of its pieces, especially the commemoratives, are still sought after.

So, that is the (somewhat) brief history of my new collection. But, as with any collection, the fun is not only in the receiving, but in the hunt as well. Last weekend, my husband and I made our annual trek to the Royal Oak Garage Sale . For those of you who may not be familiar, it's the city's big flea market in the month of July in one of its monster parking garages. What it lacks in ambiance, it makes up for in its variety of unique product offerings. I came loaded for Paragon and I was not disappointed.

Second level, third booth to the left, I found it. Among an assortment of pretty tea cups, it was right in the middle and most distinctly "Paragon" (now that I've become such an "expert" in only two short months). It had the same shape and design and green color of its siblings residing at my home and, after inspecting for the absence of chips and stains, I took out my wallet. I was ready to offer 20% lower than the ticketed price, when the booth owner said, "everything is 50% off." BONUS!! Not only did I get to add to my collection, but I got such a deal, too. Oh, what a happy afternoon that was.

So, next jaunt out, I will be looking for another Paragon tea cup to add to my significant collection. Final observation of this fun hobby - when you have three of anything, your collection becomes "significant'.

Yours in Friendship,

Barb

ps - to any Paragon Collectors (or any tea-related collectors, for that matter), an invite to share your information with BTS!

Tea Time Gets Warm and Cozy!

Exclusive Tea Cozies Now Available at Barb's TEA Shop - Special Introductory Offer


Barb's TEA Shop is excited to now offer one-of-a-kind tea cozies that will not only beautify your tea table, but keep your tea warm in the pot as well. These are handcrafted items made with amazing fabrics - some vintage! - and all offer special features you'll appreciate. Each cozy has a removable liner, which can be washed separately. In addition, each of these charming teapot warmers has a tab at the top for easy removal.


If you are looking for a unique gift of high quality for your favorite teaophile, that's both pretty as well as functional, you'll want to put these tea cozies on your list.

We offer two sizes: small and medium. Small fits most 4-cup teapots (approx. size 10 x 9.5). Medium fits most 6-cup teapots (approx. size 12 x 10.5). (Note: the medium will not fit your "Old Country Rose-sized Teapot".)

In the small size we also offer beautiful tea cozies made from vintage napkins (size 10 x 8). You'll love the charm of the delicate fabric and lace.


All of these tea cozies are available for $25.00 (plus shipping), but during the month of July, BTS offers a special introductory price of $23.99 (plus shipping).

To purchase, contact BTS at barb@barbsteashop.com or call 248-840-4356.

Keep in mind, these are custom-made items, so no two are alike. With fabrics from funky to elegant, we have something for every tea lover's taste!

Medium Tea Cozies Small Tea Cozies
(leopard, yellow "tapestry", grape and leaf) (circles, flowers, stripes)

Tea Time in "Teacumseh"

Hello Friends!

We found ourselves back in "England" for tea this Saturday after a weekend excursion through Toledo, Ohio to see Jerry Seinfeld in concert (outrageously funny, by the way), then on to Dundee, Michigan (to take in the "Cabella's Experience"), and finally stopping in Tecumseh on our way back home. I remembered we had visited the British Pantry and Tea Garden about four years ago and it had made quite an impression. I was anxious to reconnect with this tea room and, after my first cup of Yorkshire Gold (the "house" black tea blended in Yorkshire Dales), I wondered what had taken me so long to get back to this incredibly charming tea room.

Although we were a bit too early for the "afternoon tea" offering, we were delighted with our lunch choices. I had a spinach quiche that was the perfect consistency and packed with flavor. It was served with a homemade spice bread that was delightfully moist and the apple slaw, which is a unique salad concoction you will savor. For dessert, we had carrot cake and a lemon tart. You will definitely want to save up your sweet allotment for this tea parlor and I would highly recommend the Yorkshire Gold as a perfect accompaniment to your meal. It can handle the heartiest of lunches and perfectly off-set the sweetness of dessert.

Men will not feel out of place here, even though they may be in the minority of patrons. The dark wood booths and imposing counter area balance out the flowery teapots and lace curtains. And that goes for the gift shop, too; plenty of delicate, decorative items that will appeal to your feminine side, but the variety of imported foods for sale will delight any gastronome regardless of gender.

The service is great and we met with the manager, Debbie, who was answered all our questions with a smile and enthusiasm. We were checked on regularly to see how we were doing and if we needed more tea - and you absolutely know how important that is!

There's also a room upstairs for special occasions. It was in use during our visit, but not at all interfering with guests on the main floor.

My only regret was that we didn't have more time to try out the many, many teas on the British Tea Gardens loose tea list. That will serve as our excuse to head back to Tecumseh - and, I can tell you this, it won't be another four years!

Another gloved thumbs up to The British Pantry and Tea Garden. A bit of merry old England in southern Michigan.


The British Tea Garden is located at 112 E. Chicago Blvd, Tecumseh, Michigan. For more information click on this link British Tea Garden
. . . and tell them BTS sent you!

Celebrating Like Royal-Tea

Hello Dear Friends!

It appears we have moved from Spring (?) to mid-August heat this week in Michigan, but despite the soaring temps, I am unwavering in taking my hot tea break this afternoon. I'm partaking in Twinings Earl Grey today - Queen Elizabeth's noted afternoon tea favorite - in the spirit of a recent Royal celebration.

In May, my husband, Chris, and I celebrated our 25th Wedding Anniversary. The weekend before the anniversary date, our children hosted a party for us at my eldest son and his fiance's new (to them!), lake-front home. They corralled the usual suspects to join us for a cook-out, champagne toast, boat rides and a lot of heavy duty lawn chair sitting. When the most taxing activity you do all day is climb on and off the neighbor's pontoon boat, you know you've succumbed to the ultimate in party-time relaxation.

So, in appreciation for all their hard work: to our kids owed, many, many kudos!!

But, wait! There's more! To put the cap on this week of pseudo-nobility, Chris and I treated ourselves to a special dinner for two at the Royal Park Hotel in the city of Rochester. It was such an extravagant experience, that if someone had placed jeweled-crowns on our heads and velvet robes around our shoulders, it would not have seemed out of place. We were seated in a cushy, intimate booth facing the lit fireplace (which only a month ago, was appealing). The hostess and waitress attended to all our needs - some we didn't even know we had - and the dinner culminated with an on-the-house dessert of vanilla ice cream stuffed into delicate cream puffs surrounded by "Happy Anniversary" in chocolate script. It was quite literally, the icing on the cake!

I suppose after all this attention, pampering, catering-to and indulgence, returning to our "ordinary life" could feel a bit like Cinderella after the ball. But, unlike our fabled princess, my little corner is filled with an embarrassment of riches. In my "real life", this weekend, Chris and I were in another world at our cabin up north, plowing through dirt-covered back roads in our Dodge Dakota pick up truck; the one who wasn't driving had bare feet resting on the dashboard, in true hillbilly fashion. The only thing missing was Ellie Mae, Granny and her rocking chair. We stopped at the "Kitchen Kettle" for a hot dog lunch, where nothing is written on the plate - - in ketchup or mustard. But, in my purse, I keep a letter from my son - something he wrote for Chris and I on our 25th. Like many of the best family moments, it was both funny and moving as it touched on the importance of family - the support, love and tolerance - that really make life's journey what it's all about. Whether that journey is via horse-drawn coach, dodge pick-up or ordinary pumpkin, really, who could ask for more?

So, dear friends, it looks as though it may be time to turn on the air conditioning and add some ice cubes to my Earl Grey. It seems there's laundry piling up and my desk is screaming to be decluttered. I'll get to my weekend chores sporting one glass slipper and one flip-flop, but I'll keep the tiara in the closet . . . for now.

Most humbly,

Barb

Dining at the Royal Park Hotel

Important Note: The Royal Park Hotel serves Afternoon Tea. Barb's TEA Shop will be organizing an informal excursion on a Saturday this fall. Any who are interested, just email Barb at barb@barbsteashop.com for future updates.

Brownies Excel in Table Etiquette and Manners Class

When one receives a referral from a guest at a previous event, it's always a pleasure and a compliment. Imagine how even more special it is when that particular guest is only six years old!

Megan of Brownie Troop 3250, had attended Barb's TEA Shop's "Teddy Bear Tea and Etiquette Class" in the Fall of 2006 through Rochester, Michigan's after-school enrichment program. She was an enthusiastic participant even in Kindergarden, so BTS felt quite honored when Megan's mom called to schedule a Table Manners Class for their Brownie Troop, on Megan's recommendation.

Last month, BTS held that manners class for fifteen Brownies in the classroom-turned-restaurant in Rochester Hills. The Brownies learned not only by demonstration, but by actually performing the tasks themselves. This Brownie troop mastered proper place settings, the correct way to cut meat (with fun melon slices!) and what to do with the roll on one's bread plate. The young ladies practiced placing their flatware on their plate in the correct place to signify when they were done and what to do with their napkin should they need to leave the table for any reason.

This was an interactive class where the girls brought their own experiences and questions into the discussion. They were eager to test their table skills with their "kool-aid tea" and modified 3-course meal. At the end of the mock restaurant experience the girls were rewarded with cookies, a diploma and a teddy bear calendar.

BTS received a note in the mail last week from this very special Brownie troop. They put their training to use at a fancy restaurant in town and we're pleased to report, they excelled in their manners and earned their etiquette badge to boot! What a wonderful accomplishment for an amazing group of young ladies.

Congratulations to Brownie Troop 3250 and thanks for inviting BTS to be part of the fun!

Barb's TEA Shop offers a variety of tea and table manners classes for children. For more information on a customized program for your group, contact BTS at barb@barbsteashop.com or call us at 248-840-4356.












Megan at the Teddy Bear Tea.