Of Tea & Labels

Okay dear friends.

Time for something pleasant.

I know coffee gets all the glory,

but tea really is a lovely drink.

It seems I'm always trying new teas.

My favorite tea was "lemon blossom" 

which was discontinued several years ago now.

Since then, I've stuck with mint tea but have searched

for a new favorite tea that I actually really enjoy and look forward to.

There are some pretty spendy teas out there!

Many of them don't taste like they should be spendy at all.

Well, I finally found not just a tea, but several

that I really savor.

Each one I've tried, I've loved!

Where?  

Hummingbird Tea

I think I've tried six or seven of their teas and

have purchased six of them so far. . . 

and there's another I want to try - citrus chill.

I am not connected with them and I don't get any payment from them

for saying these things.

I just really like their teas and appreciate finding them.

Of all their teas I've tried, I would describe them

as "whole flavors."

So often it seems like there is something missing (like flavor).

These taste complete.

So like I said, I've ended up with half dozen different teas.

I've had these bailor jars for ages.

I purchased them at a dollar store long ago,

and they've come in handy.

I decided they would be good for the teas.

I think they are as pleasing to look at as to drink - 

well, almost.

Many of you might have figured out by now 

that I'm more about function than about fashion.

I like things to look nice,

but when it comes down to it, it has to function

and be as usable as ever.

Weeeeellll. . . . story time 

Some time back, I purchased some attractive

reusable labels to give as a gift.

They were actually for my mom who loves lavender.

The labels are good quality and very pretty.

My mom loved them.

Where did I get these great labels?

I knew you'd ask.

Mistress of the House

(Again not affiliated)

But wait, that's not the end of the story.

So Jes has a way of making things beautiful.

She takes those extra steps and it shows.

When I received the labels for my mom,

there were also a few extras in the form of samples.

Those teas above in the bailor jars needed labels

and they were handy so I wrote 

the name of the tea and put them on the jars.

I used a fine point permanent marker.

If I ever want to change them,

a quick spritz with hairspray wipes it clean.

Hairspray also works for getting permanent marker out of jeans.

Don't ask me how I know that.

Anyways, those little samples worked!

I like that they are a nice quality unlike the little paper stickers.

End story: I ordered some for me and some more for Christmas gifts.

My family is to the point in life that we really don't need "things."

So we try to give smaller things that can be used or consumed.

These are perfect!

I am having so much fun using them.

They are both functional and beautiful.

Pantry stocking this time of year can be wearing.

I am still working on the tail end of tomatoes

and will be dehydrating greens and cidering some apples

within the next week.

It's pretty easy, for me at least, to just get the stuff canned

or jarred and not label it (for shame!)

I know - that's bad.

These are certainly handy and if I'm sipping tea

while I'm canning or prepping foods,

it makes for a much nicer time.

I've been on the go quite a bit lately,

but I wanted to post something nice.

These are the items that came to mind first.

They are things I am grateful for~

I hope you enjoy them.

 

But When Do You Have To Admit It?

It was love at first sight.

I just love the extension of the pouring spout.

That shape is fantastic.

The fact that it will join this little group

is just beside the point.

Okay, so I will have to move the 2 tea pots

and rearrange my teacup collection

in order to do so.

It's okay...really...There's no problem.
But..but.. it was made in Italy,
and I didn't have one like thaaat,
and well just look at it....

Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Settlin' In

Our somewhat abbreviated autumn is coming to a close.  Today, we are supposed to have a high of 75 degrees - Yes, I am fully aware it is November.  Mother Nature must have woke up on the wrong side of the bed.  Have no fear however, Old Man Winter is chasing her.  By Friday, we are supposed to have a chance of snow.  I didn't get on here to talk about the weather, but wanted to share with you a feeling. 

 

You know the feeling when you have been gone for a few days (or even longer,) and you walk in the door and something just flows through you.  You're home. No more getting to or from, no more clocks to measure your time, no more anything.  You set your bags down - the ones you are carrying on the inside as well. 

Go into the kitchen and put the water on, then light the fire while the water is heating - even if it is a candle.  It will warm you.  You hear the soft beginnings of a whistle beckoning you.  Watch the steam as you poor the hot water over your favorite tea in that cup that just makes all tea taste better.  Holding it cradled in two hands, you make your way to the couch.  Now pull the old quilt over you, the one with thread bare edges and faded patches - that's the one.  It somehow knows how to fold around you.  It remembers you.  It comforts you. 
 

Close your eyes and soak up every bit of that peace and calm and quiet.

This is my wish for each of you as we edge our way into what can be a very busy time of year.  There seems to be less time between those busy times any more.  As we settle into the winter months, take your peace, your calm, and your quite, just enjoy it and be well.
Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches