As a child, I remember Sunday Afternoons as a special time for Mom, Dad and me. Mom would bake her famous thick crusted apple pie made with apples from the orchard of the property we lived on. With this freshly baked pie Mom made tea using her special tea service set. This time was appreciated by the family; I felt particularly grown-up when using the special china. This childhood memory made me learn to appreciate the finer things, specifically tea sets.
When I would go shopping, I'd find myself stopping and admiring these wonderful works of art. My husband and family members knew what I collected so when a special occasion such as my birthday, anniversary or Christmas came they'd purchase items towards my collection.
Throughout the years I've continued to build my collection of both fine china as well as one-of-a-kind and unique style teapots and teacups. I am always open to try many varieties of tea, but for a long time my favorite tea has been, not just any Earl Grey but Twinings Earl Grey.
How to serve tea: First, pour small amount of milk not cream into the teacup; then gently pour hot tea into cup and stir. This pouring method helps prevent porcelain from cracking. Some tea connoisseurs place the teaspoon into the cup pouring the hot tea onto the spoon into the cup.
Tea Party: Between 2-4pm. Set the table into a "buffet-style fashion" with flowers of the season. Use cloth tablecloths and napkins. Bring out a variety of cups and saucers (don't have to match) have friends bring their favorite teas and if they want--special teacups to the party. What about using souvenir spoons and trays? a great conversation starter. Bake some scones serve with homemade marmalade and make some simple finger sandwiches and shortbread cookies. Provide 2-3 kinds of teas in teapots. Maybe some light music with no vocals; they have a variety of CDs in the Music Stores for Teatime.
Right now I'm collecting a limited edition 2003 collection Royal Albert Teacups/saucers of the month; each one has a theme flower with the month displayed in gold script on the inside edge of the cup; onebeing more beautiful than another. I display my collection in my dining room china cabinet. I then prepare a place in cabinet for the next piece in the tea ware series.
History of the Teapot - Originated thousands of years ago through Chinese culture. Made from materials such as clay,metal or porcelain. Earliest teapot example dated 1513 that has survived is displayed in the Flagstaff House Museum of tea ware.
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Your friendly neighborhood Cook - Julia
Your friendly neighborhood Cook - Julia
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