Tea in Texas Spring 2014

November/December 2013 $4.95

s e h c o t i h c t a N LOUISIANA

Best Travel Destination in Louisiana for 2014

by CNN Travel

Tri-Centennial events scheduled every 2nd Saturday beginning January 2014.

Home of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum

800-259-1714 • www.Natchitoches.com

Houston - Gulf Coast

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February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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contents

Lee Q. Garcia

Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Miller

Editor, North Texas

Contributors: Heather Clary Rose Ann Cook Elizabeth Escobedo Paula Myers Janet Pool Virginia Walker Penny Ward

Photo Credits: Istock.com 123rf.com tumbler.com National Advertising Coordinator: Stephanie Miller 214-534-4865 Quilting/Craft Advertising Coordinator: Michelle Lindsey 281-814-1736

10 FLOWERS

It’s blooming beauties in the Lone Star State! Visit the Dallas Arboretum (pg 7), Tyler (pg10), Houma’s House (pg 24) and Houston’s Bayou Bend (pg 43).

17

BLUBONNETS

The state flower roams wild, embracing lucky cities such as Ennis (pg 17).

To become a part of our upcoming issue, please call TEA-922-9335 or email: info@teaintexas.com Published Quarterly By: TEA IN TEXAS MEDIA, LLC 800 Wilcrest Rd., #145 Houston, Texas 77042 Sales: sales@teaintexas.com Website: teaintexas.com Office: 832-955-1767 Fax: 214-988-9367 Yearly Subscriptions are $19.95. Additional or back issues are available online or by calling the TEA in TEXAS office for $4.95 a copy.

Tea in Texas copyrighted 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without our written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited.

39 TEA Enjoy Spring Tea

Harlingen was recently named national Iced Tea Capital (pg 39). This spring, Tea Master Heather Clary visits Belize (pg 24) and first flushes arrive (pg 32).

at the Dallas Arboretum FEBRUARY 24 - APRIL 4 Seatings at 11am and 2pm • Monday-Friday

Spring is the perfect season to stop and smell the tulips, relax and catch up with a friend or loved one over a seated tea.

COMMUNIT Y Enjoy tea in the elegant tea room at the DeGolyer Estate surrounded by the beauty of over 500,000 blooms.giving back in big ways!

Reservations required.

Call 214-515-6511 or teas@dallasarboretum.org.

10% of TEAinTEXAS are proudly donated to Women’s Ministries Stocked with vivid FESTIVALS & ART art and fine music, and Civic Groups that spring festivals amaze visitors in Baytown (pg 45), promote awareness Melrose (pg 29), Ridgeland (pg 31), Spring (pg 48) and learning in Texas.

Please note that Tea in Texas Media, LLC has made reasonable efforts to verify the information with­ in. Editorial and advertising do not assume responsibility for false or misleading information.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily the views of the publisher. We encourage you to support our local businesses and say you heard about them from Tea in Texas Magazine.

By submitting images/articles to Tea in Texas Media, LLC you grant the magazine the rights to said material for any commercial use without further consideration.

45

www.dallasarboretum.org

and La Grange (pg 50).

8525 Garland Road • Dallas, Texas 75218 Please Recycle This Magazine.

Pass It Alongin part, by funds from Dallas Parks & Recreation.

member TEXAS BED & BREAKFAST ASSOCIATION

texas Texas Welcome Houston - welcome Gulf Coast

letter from the editor

Spring 2014

Raise Your Cups!

Hello Friends, There’s never been a more exciting for modern tea travelers, and by modern tea travelers, I mean YOU! Love to find a quaint tea room during your weekend getaway? Smitten with an antique clock and vintage lace? Excited to find an artisan festival in town? Absorbed in this magazine? Yep- you are the modern tea traveler, and we’re so excited to be a part of your passion.

In this issue you will feed your passion with tea shop stories and simple recipes along with a world of cultural travel that will have your boots quaking in fear. You’ll find amazing art festivals and spring pilgrimages which celebrate the glorious gardens of our region. For decades, they have thrown open the doors of historic structures to welcome artists

and crafters as well as eager guests. Grab your bottle of tea and go. (That’s what they do in Harlingen!)

The arrival of spring (yay!) means new energy for shopping. Venture out to a quilt shop to find exciting colors and new projects [plenty of space for new additions to your stash] or pop-in for a new blend of tea from your local purveyor. I’ve decided that my goal is to decorate my dining room with a simple antique treasure (need to shop...), funky tablecloth and favorite tea cup.

Then I’m taking some me-time with a new book (Christmas gift) to re-calm my spiritproof positive that sometimes less really is more.

As my friend Paula says, “Every day has tea party potential.” Whatever you are doing, we’re always with you, sharing instant inspiration and basking in the delights of tea travels.

Join us on lin e-

tea tra velers love to sha re!

TeaInTexasMag

Lee Q. Garcia Editor-In-Chief

TeaInTexas

Tell our advertisers tha t you hea rd about them in TEAinTEXAS!

STAY N THE KNOW Cover Photo

Shared by photographic artist Karen Paige Hillman - “An Al Fresco Tea Table Beckons at The Whitworth Ranch Retreat in Scurry”.

Read more about her passion for Texas travels on page 54.

EVENTS-SPECIALS-NEWS in TEXAS Online Newsletter

STAY LOCAL at TEAinTEXAS.COM

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

5

TEAinTEXAS

5th Daas

presents the

aft ern

oon

Tea air s

tea - new blends - cook

mo e d ing

June 8th, 2014 Heard-Craig Center for the Arts McKinney Come for Tea!

A lovely Sunday afternoon celebrating travel and friends.

Benefits local charity efforts.

Advanced Tickets on Sale $59 teaintexas.com

Dallas - North Houston - GulfTexas Coast

North Texas News The Scoop Needlework andQuilts

Help Newcomers Raise Funds

A fabulous handmade quilt, beautiful needlework items (including a tree filled with Texas-themed needlepoint ornaments) and even a few tea items were among the highlights of a Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano auction that raised thousands of dollars for the group’s scholarship fund.

Hundreds of the group’s members gathered at Stonebriar Country Club in December for a lovely luncheon that included an entertaining auction featuring many handmade items from the group’s members.

Newcomer Friends offers a full calendar of activities, including a tea group, a stitching group and a teatime group.

Those groups donated fabulous baskets and items to raise money for the scholarships that are awarded to students at Collin County Community College.

Top sellers included the hand-made tree rag quilt called “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” which brought in $575, the wonderful lighted tree decorated with cross-stitched ornaments, which went for $325, an afternoon tea for 8 that will be catered by Becky Watts and Raynell Kuehler, and a fabulous teatime basket.

Sharon Hyche, who leads the quilting group, reports that the rag quilt is a tradition of the annual luncheon and one is auctioned each year. The lighted tree is also an annual offering, said Jean Hill, who leads the In-Stitches group.

With their tea, quilting and n e e d l e w o r k i nt e r e s t s , t h e Newcomer Friends are certainly a group after tea lovers’ hearts!

Learn more about their activities at www. newcomerfriends.org February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Dallas - North Texas

texas & louisiana

CALENDAR January 30 – February 2, February 27 – March 2, April 3-6, May 1-4 Canton’s First Monday Trade Days Explore a world of antiques, home decor, clothing and gifts at Canton’s First Monday Trade Days. While in town, visit the charming Square. At the First Monday Grounds, there are more than 7,000 vendor spaces, providing an amazing treasure hunt. 1-877-462-7467 firstmonday@cantontex.com.

Located at Collin County Farm Museum 7117 County Road 166 McKinney, TX 75071 972-548-4792 ccfm@collincountytx.gov

Texas Independence Day Celebration March 1 & 2

Granbury Wine Walk April 25-26

General Granbury’s Birthday March 15 & 16

Memorial Day May 24-26

TEXT THE WORD GRANBURY TO 70000 FOR FREE INFORMATION ON EVENTS AND MONTHLY HAPPENINGS

8

February 24 – April 4 Dallas Arboretum Spring Tea Ranked one of the top 14 places in the world to enjoy Spring flowers, the Arboretum is a spectacular setting for tea. Its Spring Tea is an annual ritual for Dallas tea lovers. Enjoy three elegant courses, tour the historic estate of Mr. and Mrs. DeGolyer, then take in the breathtaking Dallas Blooms Festival, with more than 500,000 Spring bulbs. Tea seatings are at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and reservations are required. 214515-6511 or teas@dallasarboretum.org.

Second Saturdays: An Evening of Art, Music and Wine, McKinney Explore downtown art galleries, great local and regional music and enjoy dinner at one of McKinney’s outstanding eateries. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Last Saturday of each month Last Saturday Gallery Night at Granbury Square Granbury art galleries and the Yeats-Duke 1858 Working Museum host this free art walk the last Saturday of the month, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meet the artist events, opening receptions, demonstrations, hors d’oeuvres, wine and music.

Throughout the Month of February Valentine’s Tea, Into My Garden, Plano Enjoy a traditional tea service. Fine loose teas, three sandwiches – apricot almond chicken salad, cucumber carrot, and egg salad; tea breads and warm English sconess with Devonshire cream and lemon curd; pastry course with chocolate-covered strawberries, French macarons, and red velvet cake. $18.50 reservations@intomygarden.com; 469360-5821.

February 1 “In the Mood: The Fashions of Romance” Vintage Fashion Show at High Street Antiques, Plano Chic Cherie in Plano and Steven Porterfield of the Cat’s Meow in Midland present a vintage fashion show focusing on dresses with a romantic flair, with tea at The Chocolate Angel, High Street. Preview Downton Abbey fashions to be shown at Antique Elegance February 15. Tea reservations: 972-904-9597.

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

March 28 Washington, Louisiana, “Flower Garden” High Tea Join the Washington, Louisiana (St. Landry Parish) Garden Club for a High Tea on Sunday, March 23 at 2 p.m. at Wolff Hall on Main Street. Pianist Steve Smith will entertain. $35 per person. For tickets, call 337-826-7337. Wear your hat.

May 17 Collin County Farm Museum’s Model T’ea Party and Open House An unforgettable tea event featuring free rides in a Model T, crafts and games and a tea party, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Collin County Farm Museum, 7117 County Road 166, McKinney. Call 972-548-4792; co.collin.tx.us/parks/myers/farm_museum.jsp.

August 23 16th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea and Fundraiser Includes a fabulous tea, live and silent auctions, a pink carpet salute to survivors, inspiring entertainment and a hat contest! Tickets: $40 in advance ($25 for children).

Funds benefit the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Division. DFW Airport Marriott South. Email breastcancertea@aol.com; breastcancertea.org; 817-723-3095.

Pilgrimage Events and Flower Festivals

March 8 – April 8 Natchez Pilgrimage Azaleas, Architecture and America’s History are the focus of this renowned event, in a gracious destination where 27 antebellum homes offer tours led by friends and descendants of the original homeowners. Catch the Natchez Tableau, in which history comes to life at the City Auditorium. The award-winning Holy Family Catholic Church Gospel Choir offers songs depicting the history of African-Americans; natchezpilgrimage.com.

March 21 – April 6 Azalea & Spring Flower Trail, Tyler The historic district is ablaze in azaleas in one of the state’s premiere flower trial events that has been going strong since 1960. Community events include home tours, art shows, and even a quilt show; visittyler.com 800-235-5712.

March 27 – 30 79th Annual Savannah Tour of Homes & Gardens Visit some of Savannah’s finest private homes, enjoy garden walking tours and exclusive special events. Savannah has the largest urban landmark historic district in the United States; savannahtourofhomes.org.

April 1 – 30 Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Experience Texas’ famous bluebonnets in Ennis, 25 miles south of Dallas, throughout April.

It offers 40 miles of bluebonnet trails! The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival, sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. April 12-13 at Pierce Park in downtown Ennis; visitennis.org.

March 31 – April 12 Columbus, Mississippi 74th Annual Pilgrimage Sixteen days of traditional programs and activities, including tours of antebellum mansions, a garden party, carriage rides, and the Catfish in the Alley festival; visitcolumbusms.org.

May 1 – 4 Jefferson, 67th Annual Historical Pilgrimage “Jefferson’s Golden Era” The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club invites you to enjoy fabulous gardens in bloom and lovely architecture that make the gracious city of Jefferson a jewel in the Lone Star State’s crown. jeffersonpilgrimage.com.

June 14 11am-4pm McKinney Garden Club Garden Tour “Heirloom Gardens” Step inside some of McKinney’s most distinguished gardens and enjoy a remarkable day in McKinney. Tickets, $20; benefits civic beautification; mckinneygardenclub.org.

Meet

BestsellingAuthor Joanne Fluke This Spring!

Readers keep coming back for another helping of New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Joanne Fluke’s culinary mysteries, featuring Minnesota bake shop owner Hannah Swensen and her delicious original recipes. Look for BLACKBERRY PIE MURDER in stores everywhere on February 25, 2014 and don’t miss the chance to meet Joanne Fluke on her Texas tour dates!

Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 7:00 pm BOOK PEOPLE Joanne Fluke & Tito’s Vodka present BLACKBERRY PIE MURDER 603 North Lamar Austin, Texas 78703 Wed March 5, 2014 @ 6:30 pm MURDER BY THE BOOK 2342 Bissonnet Street Houston, TX 77005 Thursday March 6, 2014 @ 6pm THE CHOCOLATE ANGEL TEA ROOM Eat Dessert First with Joanne Fluke 4709 W Parker Rd #450 Plano, TX 75093 Friday March 7, 2014 @ 2:00 pm FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY Tea with Joanne Fluke Ridglea Branch Library 3628 Bernie Anderson Dr. Fort Worth, TX 76116 Saturday March 8, 2014 @ 1:00 pm BARNES & NOBLE 7700 West Northwest Hwy. Ste. 300 Dallas, TX 75225

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Houston - Gulf Coast

February 15 Empowering Women Exchange Luncheon Consultant Susan Hamilton will discuss marketing and managing your business. La Madeliene, 5920 Beltline Road, Addison, 10:30 am – 12pm.; sharon7phillips@gmail. com.

Tyler - East Texas

Spend a Ladies’ Day in Tyler

By Stephanie Miller

Houston Tyler - East - Gulf Texas Coast

Gardening inspiration, beautiful homes, arts, crafts and antiques are among the highlights you can look forward to when you visit the East Texas city of Tyler during its famed Azalea and Spring Flower Trail.

Tyler has perfect conditions for azaleas, and the Spring festival’s display is nothing short of spectacular, painting the historic district in irresistible shades of pink and green.

Introduced to Tyler in 1929, the azalea is a cherished harbinger of spring, its blooms lasting only a short while, but making an unforgettable impression while they are here. The branches practically drip with the trumpet-like blooms that span the range from white to pale pink to salmon to fuscia and red, and the azalea bushes appear to double in size when the flowers emerge.

Tyler’s Trail was established in the 1960s, and the Spring event

home and the families who lived here. Patricia is passionate about historic homes, and has been instrumental in the home’s pristine restoration. She has great stories and anecdotes to share.

You may want to time your visit to Tyler to coincide with some of the arts events that take place during the first weekend of the Azalea Trail. The Tyler Woman’s Building, a beautiful gem in the historic district graced with dogwoods and azaleas, is the site of the Penny Nichols Sanders School of Fine Art Show that captures scenes of Tyler’s natural beauty, among other subjects, and The East Texas Porcelain Guild’s Art Show and Sale.

now draws some 100,000 visitors annually. Tea in Texas visited Tyler to get a preview of the Azalea Trail festival, and we found some special attractions to share.

We began our day at the Goodman-LeGrand Home and Museum, a stately Greek Revival Mansion that dates to 1859, and truly captures the grace of the South, with tall ceilings, abundant windows, lovely antiques, Civil War artifacts, a beguiling staircase, and nine acres of beautiful grounds. If you call in advance, you can schedule a tour for your group. Curator Patricia Heaton is the quintessential hostess, sharing marvelous details about the

Take a little extra time to have lunch with the locals at The Potpourri House, a restaurant and boutique just outside the historic district. Owner Les Ellsworth offers a hospitable welcome, and is well-versed in Tyler’s history. Scrumptious soups, salads, sandwiches, crepes, wraps, and fabulous deserts are on the menu. The boutique is filled with eye-catching fashions, florals, gifts and jewelry.

The Quilters Guild of East Texas Quilt Show takes place right next door to the East Texas Embroiderers’ Guild Needle Art Show.

Both included many fine examples of the art, and are well attended.

We concluded our visit with a trip to Ye Olde City Antique Mall downtown. It also includes a flea market, and there is something for everyone here.

If you can plan a day trip in the meantime, year-round there are museums and attractions, historic homes, cultural events and antiques, and the historic district that invites you to walk through and enjoy the beauty of nature that has blessed this charming city in East Texas.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

11

Tea It Up Inspiration

: p U t I Tea

Host a Tea Inspired by the Legendary Masters Golf Tournament ®

By Stephanie Miller

Every Spring when the azaleas are in bloom across the South, the world of golf turns its attention to The Masters®, a legendary golf tournament that is one of the major championships on the PGA Tour, and dates to 1932. Covered in a profusion of azaleas, the magnificent Augusta National Golf Club is painted in the most gorgeous Spring palette, making this event a favorite of players and fans.

Augusta National is one of the most picturesque Spring destinations, and this annual event certainly captures the grace and grandeur of the American South . “ I … wish every lover of the game of golf might have the privilege of either playing or seeing this tournament,” wrote legendary Texas golfer Byron Nelson in a letter of January 1, 1946 that is quoted in “Second Round Tea-Time at the Masters®” and hints at what an incredible experience it is to be there.

So Tea in Texas was delighted to learn that the Junior League of Augusta has created a lovely series of cookbooks that capture teatime recipes from their members, as well as from PGA professionals, and Augusta-area restaurants.

What a wonderful way to celebrate this cherished Spring event! The classic Southern and tea-time recipes can be enjoyed for tea and many other occasions year-round, and they will help you add that unmistakable Southern touch to your events.

The series includes three volumes: “Tea-Time at the Masters®,” published in 1977; “Second Round TeaTime at the Masters®.” Published in 1988, and “Par Three Tea-Time at the Masters®,” published in 2005. (Order your copies at www. jlaugusta.org, or call 706-736-0033.)

We chose the following recipes from the series to create a Southern tea menu. You’ll have fun using the cookbook series to find many more tea and luncheon recipes that will make your events unforgettable.

FRENCH MINT TEA From “Second Round Tea-Time at the Masters®,” page 41

13 individual tea bags 1 6-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, 1 cup sugar lightly packed juice of 2 lemons 1 quart water Combine tea bags and mint leaves with water.

Cover and bring to a boil.

Remove from heat. Steep 30 minutes. Remove tea bags.

Add orange juice concentrate, sugar, lemon juice and additional water to make 2 quarts of liquid. Strain and chill.

Yield: 8 servings

ZUCCHINI BREAD

By Mrs. Arnold Palmer, wife of Masters’ Champion 1958, 1960, 1962 and 1964 From “Tea Time at the Masters®,” page 188

4 eggs 1 ½ cups sugar 1 cup oil 3 ½ cups plain flour, sifted 1 ½ tsp. baking soda 1 ½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. ground cinnamon ¾ tsp. baking powder 2 cups zucchini, grated 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup nuts, chopped 1 cup raisins (optional)

Blend first three ingredients thoroughly. Sift dry ingredients together. Add to egg mixture. Add zucchini and remaining ingredients. Fill greased loaf pans half full. Bake at 350 degrees for 45–55 minutes unless otherwise directed, remove loaves from pans as they come from the oven and cool on racks.

Yield: 2-3 loaves.

Our friendship is like a cup of tea. A special blend of you and me.

SAVANNAH TRIFLE A favorite Southern recipe From “Tea Time at the Masters®,” page 276

6 cups milk 6 almond macaroons 1 ½ cup sugar 2 cups whipping cream, whipped 2 Tbsp. cornstarch Maraschino cherries and 6 eggs toasted almonds to garnish ¾ cup cream sherry, divided 2 5-ounce packages unfilled ladyfingers Scald milk in a double boiler.

Combine sugar, cornstarch and eggs. Beat well.

Stir a small amount of hot milk into egg mixture. Return egg mixture to remaining hot milk in double boiler and cook, stirring constantly, until custard starts to thicken and coats a metal spoon.

Cool completely.

Stir in ½ cup sherry into the custard.

Place one half of the split ladyfingers in 5-quart serving bowl with 3 crumbled macaroons.

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons sherry over ladyfingers and let stand 1 minute.

Pour ½ of the custard over ladyfingers.

Spread ½ of the whipped cream over custard layer.

Repeat layers.

Garnish top with cherries and toasted almonds.

Refrigerate.

Yield: 12–14 servings.

continued on page 15

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Dallas - North Texas

Vintage Chic from

The Chic Cherie

Classic Vintage for the Contemporary Lady A complete selection of vintage from the golden age of fashion.

Shop our fine line of: • Lady's accessories • Designer Bags • Vintage jewelry • Fabulous furs • Men's Clothes and accessories

Contact Marilyn Harris and Regina Wittenberg

Step Inside Some of

McKinney’s Loveliest Gardens

We buy Vintage clothes, jewelry, furs and accessories.

Experience Tea on the Square in Denton at

The Chestnut Tree Teahouse and Bistro

Lunch served Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Brunch served Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

www.chestnuttearoom.com • (940) 591-9475 107 West Hickory Street, Denton, Texas 76201

private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, weekend brunch

The McKinney Garden Club invites you to experience this City’s Distinguished Gardens

private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, holiday high tea

Inside High Street Antique Mall 800 North Central Exp Plano, TX 75074 972-509-7878 vintagechicherie@gmail.com www.chiccherieboutique.com

The Spice & Tea Exchange®of Fort Worth and Grapevine, TX invites you to

Come in and experience the finest teas the world has to offer!

Heirloom Gardens Garden Tour June 14 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

www.mckinneygardenclub.org

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

319 S. Main street Grapevine, TX 76051 140 E Exchange Ave, Ste #112, Ft Worth, TX 76164 1-877-spice-51

2014SavannahTourOfHomes_poster_Layout 1 1/23/2014 1:43 PM Page 1

Dallas Tea It -Up North Inspiration Texas

NOT YOUR MOMMA’S DEVILED EGGS From “Par 3 Tea-Time at the Masters®,” page 26

6 eggs 4 ½ tsp. capers, drained finely chopped 2 Tbsp. finely chopped celery, finely chopped 1 green onion, finely chopped ¼ cup light mayonnaise 2 ounces deli smoked ham, chopped 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard Cover the eggs with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes. Drain and cool immediately in ice water.

Peel the eggs and cut in half lengthwise. Mash the egg yolks in a bowl. Add the c e l e r y, g r e e n onion, ham, capers, mayonnaise and Dij on must ard and m i x wel l.

Spoon into the egg whites. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Serves 12.

March 27-30, 2014 WWW. SAVANNAHTOUROFHOMES . ORG

912-234-8054 Tea-Time at® the Masters

to was inducted in the McIlhenny Hall of Fame.

Tea-Time at the Masters

®

A Treasury of Classic Southern Recipes

Share the charm of Southern hospitality at your next ® tea or luncheon with recipes from “the Masters .”

Created by The Junior League of Augusta, the cookbook series features recipes from PGA players, their wives, and resort chefs.

The perfect gift for the bride, hostess or graduate.

SERIES INCLUDES: $18.95

Tea-Time at the Masters®

Second Round: Tea-Time at the Masters $19.95 ®

Par 3: Tea-Time at the Masters®

$21.95

PLUS TAX AND SHIPPING

PURCHASE ONE or ALL THREE at:

www.jlaugusta.org or call 706-736-0033

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

15

into the open areas between the golf balls.

He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The Empty Mason Jar A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him.

When the class began, wordlessly he picked up a very large and empty Mason jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was. So the professor then picked up a box of colorful pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled

The professor next picked up a box of playbox sand and poured it into the jar.

Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “yes.”

The professor then produced two glasses of black tea from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

The Moral of the Story – The professor waited for the laughter to subside. “Now,” said the professor, “I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things…your family, your health, your friends, your favorite passions. Things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your home, your car.”

“The sand is everything else…The small stuff. If you put the sand into the jar first, there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are critical to your happiness.”

Play with your children.

Take time to get medical checkups.

Take your partner to dinner.

Play another 18.

There will always be time to clean the house or fix the disposal.

Take care of the golf balls first, the things that really matter. Set your priorities, the rest is just sand.

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the tea represented. The professor smiled. “I’m glad you asked.

“It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of cups of tea with a friend.”

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Dallas - North Texas

Welcome to Ennis the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas!”

WN HO

ME

Ennis serves up great hotels such as Baymont Inn and Suites, Comfort Suites, Days Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Suites, La Quinta Inn and Suites and Quality Inn. Excellent bed and breakfast inns are also available. Savor the flavor of our fine restaurants and enjoy unique shopping in the historic district. Ennis also has great meeting space that is perfect for your next reunion, party, wedding reception or business meeting.

DO

Ennis, just 25 minutes south of downtown Dallas on IH-45, is a perfect place to bring the family for a weekend getaway or just for the day. Attractions and activities include the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails and Festival, National Polka Festival, the Texas Motorplex, Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, Lake Bardwell, Six Screen Drive-In Theatre (north of Ennis), Two Public Theatres, Sugar Ridge Winery, great parks, and the Lights of Ennis.

SUCCESSFUL HOMEMAKING Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary hosted “The Art of Homemaking Conference” last fall. Sponsored by Crossway, the publishers of The Christian Homemaker’s Handbook, the Conference emitted from the book’s content. The campus buzzed with enthusiasm as the 1021 guests, ranging in age from young ladies to mature women, enjoyed the Plenary sessions, workshops, book signings, “girl” fellowship, and worshipping together. Over 250 guests toured Horner Homemaking House, the institution’s management model home housing the baccalaureate and graduate Homemaking courses.

Preconference seminars included “Touching Lives through Taking Tea,” conducted by Laura Leathers and Interior Design tips presented by Lisa O’Hara, the institution’s Interior Decorator.

Special guests included Tim and Beverly LaHaye (the book was dedicated to them), Bob Hawkins, President of Harvest House Publishers, and Kia Mutranowski, the area director for Concerned Women of America.

Conference vocalist was Angela Buck and plenary speakers included Elizabeth George, Dorothy Patterson, and Michelle Duggar. It was a unique privilege to have 18 of the 20 Duggars on campus.

Experience down home hospitality that can only be found in Waxahachie. You’ll find the legendary Ellis County Courthouse, plus numerous unique dining and shopping opportunities.

Upcoming events include: Lawn & Garden Expo, Classic Car Show and Scarborough Renaissance Festival.

waxahachiecvb.com | 469-309-4040

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Dallas - North Texas

dallas tea mail

Let us host a luncheon or tea for your group!

Join us for Ladies Night Out

as we celebrate the spirit of friendship with fine food, fun music and fabulous shopping!

April 17, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Adv tickets: $20 members/ $25 non-members At the door: $25 members/$30 non-members

Historic Heard-Craig House tours on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday at 2 p.m. $5 per person

HEARD-CRAIG c e n t e r f o r t h e a rt s

Call 972-569-6909 Visit www.heardcraig.org 215 West Hunt Street, McKinney, Texas 75069

Into My Garden Tea Room

Café and Catering Ser ving lunch 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday

We also offer: Traditional High/English Tea Little Girl Tea Parties Baby Showers Bridal Luncheon

Private Parties

1017 E. 15th Street Historic Downtown Plano Phone 469-360-5821

IntoMyGarden.com

JUST STEPS FROM HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN GRAPEVINE, COME JOIN US FOR A DELICIOUS MENU AND LOVELY GIFTS.

Mother’s Day Tea May 10th • $19.95 Reserve Your Spot Today!

Chestnut Tree Delights With Holiday Tea North Texas’ record cold December temperatures were no obstacles for North Texas tea lovers intent on keeping a cherished holiday tea tradition.

Chestnut Tree Teahouse and Bistro’s loyal fans were there for the festive High Tea at this beloved teahouse on the Square in Denton even while temperatures plummeted.

The atmosphere was warm inside, as live musical entertainment and a fabulous holiday menu set the stage for the annual event that is always a sell-out. We have a feeling everyone will be back next year, rain or shine!

Learn more about Chestnut Tree at www.chestnuttearoom.com, and plan your visit for lunch and brunch any time of year, Monday through Saturday, or make your reservation for an unforgettable afternoon tea.

The Chocolate Angel Cafe and Tea Room in West Plano held its Princess Tea Party in late Summer and it was a huge success. More than 40 fair princesses (and their charming escorts) joined us for tiaras, boas and beads, sparkling all afternoon long. They enjoyed a dazzling day of tea, sandwiches, and yummy treas. What a magical afternoon!

- Carolyn Cameron

Lunch served Mon-Sat Available for 11:00 to 4:00pm Parties, We also serve Afternoon and Showers & High Tea by reservation Special Luncheons RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED 817.488.8850 216 W Wall Street • Historic Grapevine

www.BeatitudesGifts.com

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

DSO 2014

Debutantes

Honored atTea An elegant afternoon tea honoring Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s 2014 Debutantes was held at the home of Gene and Jerry Jones on the afternoon of December 18.

continued on page 20

Dallas - North Texas

continued from page 19

SHOW

60 Antique Dealers from America & England

A Portrait of the Aristocracy: Edwardian - Deco Inspired by Downton Abbey, this style show will feature the clothing of the early 1900’s through the 1920’s.

Sat

Presented by Kevin Jones & Christina Johnson from the Fashion Institute of Design & Marketing, Los Angeles

Saturday 9 AM. $5 Admission benefits FIDM

Sun

A Day on the Road A lecture will be presented by Steven Porterfield. This talk will take you through Steven’s year as he travels from sea to sea appraising, buying and selling. Steven will highlight some of his favorite sources on Sunday at 1 PM. Come and Enjoy this bird’s eye view of life in the Antiques Business.

40 Style Show th

9 AM Saturday $5 Admission

February 15-16, 2014

AntiqueEleganceShow.com

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Guests were greeted by the lovely seasonal sounds of Victorian carolers.

Such a treat!

Grapevine

A Day With

Tea in Your Heart

By Lee Q Garcia

Our editor wanted to know how to live with tea in your heart and God as your rock while making the most of a demanding day. This spring, Lee visited with Laura Browning, faithful servant and owner of Beatitudes Tea Room in historic Grapevine, Texas.

TT: Hi Laura, what time do you start your day?

LB: I start my day early 6:00 am or so, spend some time reading my Bible, sipping coffee and planning my day. Then on to the computer reading e-mails, answering emails and performing accounting duties. I get ready, and most mornings it’s off to the market for fresh produce and all the groceries needed.

TT: That is nice, do you have tea in the morning?

LB: Once I get to the tea room, I will put all the groceries away and prepare the beverage station for the new day. I get the scones startedmost mornings I treat myself to a cup of hot tea and a scone or two with delicious strawberry butter, Yummy!

“Bless the Lord, Oh my soul: and all that is within me, Bless his holy name.”

Psalm 103:1

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21

Grapevine

TT: What are your pre-opening activities?

LB: I see what is needed for the day ( if we have a special event that week or that day). Advanced reservations help us plan.

It is much better for us, allowing our small staff to better prepare in the kitchen and floor for our guests. I strongly encourage reservations at the tea room.

Our Large party room, which can hold up to 50 individuals, has been quite busy this season.

We served many Christmas parties, birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, bridal luncheons and recently an engagement party for over 40 persons.

A very special young man came in early December and asked if I could do a dinner for him and his girlfriend. Nick wanted to propose to Martha after dinner and have an engagement party immediately afterwards.

It was a beautiful event, all went as planned and planned he did- he had a decorator, a photographer and he created a CD for me to play for them during their dinner and engagement party. We were praying that she would say yes.

TT: With the holidays over, is spring your busiest season?

LB: We are busiest from mid-October to late June. Summer months are slow but we are thankful to have parties that keep us very busy.

TT: That’s a productive day, how long to you stay at the shop?

LB: We call it a day around 4:00 pm unless we have a major event, preparations will keep us at the shop longer. Also, since Beatitudes has a gift shop, I do stay late to order new product or unpack new shipments, price product and restock the floor.

I enjoy re-decorating each room with Texas and Christian goodies. I had a new shipment arrive today!

TT: What is new at the gift shop?

LB: My sister Alicia opened a little candy store in one of our back rooms it’s called My Sweet Haven. It’s very cute and kids of all ages love it. It goes well with our Princess Tea

Parties.

TT: I’m hungry for a home-made tea room lunch, when do you eat?

LB: Funny that you ask, we eat a bite when all guests have been served around 2:30pm. Sometimes I smell the wonderful scones baking and I have Elevenses, then I smell the Tortilla soup and I have Twelveses. Mostly, our meal is after the lunch rush, which could be as late as 3:30pm.

TT: With your eventful schedule, do you visit with Frank during the day?

LB: My husband Frank and I own a small remodeling company. When he is not busy, he blesses Beatitudes with his presence (helping me with much). I love it when he is there, it makes everything feel cozy. Frank refuses to learn how to operate the register, preferring to talk to the customers (and talk and talk), refilling drinks and helping with cleanup duties.

TT: Can you have hobbies outside the shop?

LB: Of course, Lee. Frank and I attend Liberty Baptist Church on Main Street in Frisco and we keep busy with building maintenance and repairs (it’s an old building).

Frank loves to play his guitar and sing.

We go for short road trips as often as possible to stay at a Bed & Breakfast and go antiquing. I always try to check out tea rooms wherever we travel. I hope to have a Beatitudes Tea Room recipe book out by October by popular demand!

We had opened the Cafe for dinner at one time but I found it was stealing my joy. The days were too long and the business inconsistent. We do, however, open for private dinners and dinner parties.

TT: Laura, thanks for sharing. As your day draws to a close, what are your bedtime prayers?

LB: It is my pleasure visiting with you. My husband and I always say grace before every meal, we take a moment to acknowledge our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Also, when we get up and when we lay our heads down, we give him thanks for all He has provided for us and praise Him. He is first in our lives, Praise God.

Dallas NorthCountry Texas Heart of -Cajun

Quilt Depicts The Last Supper “The Supper” quilt by Don Locke, D.D.S. of Waxahachie, was displayed at The Jefferson Regional Quilt Alliance’s Quilts on the Bayou Show in Jefferson in January. It was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper” and contains 51,816 half-inch squares of 350 different fabrics, and measures 15.3 x 5.6 feet. This inspired piece of art has traveled across the nation.

More traveling information and pictures at thesupper.net.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Heart Dallas of-Cajun NorthCountry Texas

Louisiana

the traveling tea master

Experience Tea at a

lantation!

P

By Heather Clary

Houmas House

Plantation and Gardens Houmas House is the Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road, a grand antebellum estate set amidst 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds and a majestic Live Oak alley. Known as “The Sugar Palace,” and dating to the mid-1700s, Houmas House captures Southern splendor with 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork.

Allspice Is Used For What?

On a recent trip to Belize, a former British Colony, I was introduced to the beautiful Allspice trees that grow over the entire country.

TeaDestination

You can experience tea like they did in the glory days of Louisiana plantations.

The Tea House overlooks a lovely courtyard.

You’ll enjoy five fabulous courses in style!

Featuring fine loose teas and unforgettable tea fare.

Houmas House is located in Plantation Country, on the River Road. 20 miles southeast of Baton Rouge, between Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

Overnight accommodations available.

The dried fruit and leaves of this tree are used as a culinary condiment and can be found in most kitchens. I was surprised to learn that it is continuously consumed throughout the day as an herbal tea. Local vendors from roadside markets to cafes offer this tea, and it is preferred over the traditional British Black tea.

The Allspice tea has an interesting taste along with an interesting history. The locals use the Allspice tea along with traditional medicine to assist with a variety of ailments. After spending the day drinking tea with the locals, I was informed that the Ancient Mayans used Allspice to embalm those that were highly regarded in Heather and her son Matthew their society. in Belize. The large Allspice

40136 Highway 942 Darrow, Louisiana 70725 www.houmashouse.com 225-473-9380

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

tree shadows them in the back.

Heather Clary is a Certified Tea Master. She is a native Houstonian, Texas Aggie and a single mother of three children. Her interests include Japanese tea ceremonies, tea blending, traveling, quilting, and running.

Heart Houston of Cajun - GulfCountry Coast

P

St. Landry Parish in Louisiana is Your erfect Weekend Getaway

By Stephanie Miller

If you are looking for a relaxing weekend with beautiful scenery, charming accommodations, historic architecture, abundant antique shopping, and some of the best food you’ll find anywhere, your perfect destination is just a few hours’ drive away.

Located north of I-10 in the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun Country, picturesque St. Landry Parish is the site one of the oldest European settlements in Louisiana and is the largest parish in Louisiana. This heritage infuses the area’s rich culture with notable music, artwork, architecture, and incomparable food. For more than three centuries, Cajun, Creole, French, African, Spanish and Native American people have contributed to the flavor of St. Landry Parish, creating the ambiance that characterizes it today.

The ethereal natural beauty of this area is experienced in towns such

as Grand Coteau, where charming shopping and Catholic traditions reside. Visit the Shrine of St. John Berchmans, the only shrine located at the site of a documented miracle in the United States, on the grounds of the Academy of the Sacred Heart. The Academy dates to 1821 and is accessed by following an alley of majestic oak trees. Visitors can also stroll the grounds of the first Southern Jesuit College that now offers retreats for people of all faiths.

Continuing along the Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway from Highway 93 to 182, visitors can stop in Sunset. Sunset is a recognized Louisiana Cultural District (LCD), where shoppers can purchase original works of art tax-free. The town has had a renaissance over the past few years and is now home to several thriving thrift stores, flea markets and local artists.

February February-March-April - March - April2013 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Heading north toward Opelousas (LCD), one will find Le Vieux Vi l l a g e , w h e re a n old train depot now houses the Louisiana Orphan Train Museum, documenting a chapter in our nation’s history that will make a lasting impression. On Main Street, the Opelousas Museum & Interpretive Center includes a doll museum, Civil War R o om an d z yd e c o museum archives.

Schedule a tour of the historic Michel Prudhomme Home, which is one of the oldest structures in the state, and visit Courthouse Square to enjoy the historic district and delicious cuisine in the cafes. Also downtown are outdoor public art exhibits including murals. As Louisiana’s third oldest city established in 1720 as an administrative territory of the French government, its French roots run deep.

Another stop along the scenic drive is Washington, where approximately 80 percent of this once- thriving steamboat town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many interesting artifacts on the steamboat era are housed at

the Washington Museum and Tourist Center. Staff will help you plan a driving route or direct you to antique shopping on Main Street or the Old Schoolhouse Antique Mall, a former high school turned antique/vintage collaboration of more than 100 vendors, open Friday-Sunday 9am-5pm.

One of the best ways to experience the richness of the culture is to taste it. St. Landry Parish is known for an abundance of culinary delights such as gumbo, étouffée, boudin, seafood and

catfish. Stop in for a plate lunch at one of the grocery store delis or visit one of the stores on the boudin trail. As the birthplace of such culinary luminaries as Chef Paul Prudhomme and Tony Chachere, your visit will be memorable. A stop on La’s Craft Brewery Trail is Bayou Teche Brewing where craft beers are created to complement the flavors of the region’s cuisine and all named in French to preserve the language.

Along with the preservation of the language, the area’s local musicians keep the accordion in hot demand with zydeco, Cajun and swamp pop music. The world-renowned music reverberates in Opelousas, the Zydeco Music Capital and host city of the Annual Zydeco Extravaganza (May 25, www. zydecoextra.com).

Additionally, every Saturday night throughout the year in the most western part of the parish, Eunice’s historic Liberty Theater hosts the internationally recognized RendezVous des Cajuns live radio and TV show in a restored 1924 Vaudeville movie house. The Grand Ole Opry style show features Cajun and zydeco music in a family friendly environment. The Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve, also features weekly Saturday afternoon live music, cooking demonstrations and native craft creation. To get a still shot view of the wonderful music history, visit the Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum downtown.

At the opposite end of the parish is Arnaudville (LCD), where NuNu Arts & Culture Collective hosts regular live music on weekends. The small town of 1,200+ has become a haven for musicians, dancers, writers, and culinary experts.

Many of its residents are passionate about preserving the area’s native French language where one in 10 residents speak French daily. The quilting circle held every Thursday is open to the public at no cost and participants can practice their French conversation. As an arts collective, shoppers can purchase original art and browse through the gallery that features paintings, drawings, woodwork, sculptures, books, jewelry and clothing.

To plan your trip, visit www.cajuntravel.com or call 877-948-8004 Monday – Saturday 9am-5pm. The area’s calendar of events are listed to match your interests so take your pick then call a travel counselor for assistance with a specific itinerary.

JAN 25 8th Annual Gumbo Cook Off 337-658-1108 gumbocookoff@yahoo.com FEB 28- MAR 4 Cajun Country Mardi Gras Eunice 337-457-7389 or 337-457-2565; www.eunice-la.com MAR 3 Lundi Gras at Le Vieux Village Opelousas 337-948-5227, www.cityofopelousas.com MAR 2 28th Annual Here’s The Beef Cook Off Opelousas, 337-684-6751 MAR 15 7 Mile Yard Sale – Grand Coteau, Arnaudville, Sunset, 337-945-9188 MAR 23 29th Annual World Championship Crawfish Etouffee Cook Off Eunice, 337-457-2565; www.eunicechamber.com APR 11-13 Semi Annual Antique Fair & Yard Sale Washington, 337-826-3580; www. oldschoolhouse antiquemall.com APR 17-20 15t Annual Washington Catfish Festival Washington, 337-826-3627; www.townofwashingtonla.org APR 19-20 4th Annual Artmania Washington, 337-277-2820; www.artmania-lama.com APR 25-27 29th Annual Etouffee Festival Arnaudville, 337-754-5912; www.johnfrancisregis.net/etouffee_festival.html MAY 3 18th Annual Herb & Garden Festival Sunset 337-662-3542; sunsetherbfestival.com MAY 23-25 3rd Annual Krotz Springs Sportsmen’s Heritage Festival 337-566-3527; www. kssportsmensheritagefestival.com MAY 25 28th Annual Zydeco Extravaganza Opelousas, 337-234-9695 or 337-948-2520; www.zydecoextra.com JULY 5 24th Annual Lebeau Zydeco Festival Lebeau, 337-351-3902 AUG 30 32nd Annual Southwest La Zydeco Festival Plaisance, 337-942-2392; www.zydeco.org OCT TBA 10th Annual Spice & Music Festival Opelousas, 337-948-5227; www.opelousasspiceandmusicfestival.com OCT 9-11 12th Annual Atchafalaya Catfish Festival Melville, 337-623-4226 OCT 10-12 Semi Annual Antique Fair & Yard Sale Washington, 337-826-3580, www.oldschoolhouseantiquemall.com OCT 25 3rd Annual Sweet Dough Pie Festival Grand Coteau, 337-945-4314, www.sweetdoughgc.com OCT 31-NOV 2 22nd Annual Holy Ghost Creole Bazaar & Festival Opelousas, 337-942-2732 NOV 6-9 29th Annual Cracklin Festival Port Barre, 337-585-6673; www.portbarrecracklinfestival.com DEC 6 10th Annual Le Feu Et L’eau (Fire & Water) Festival Arnaudville, 337-453-3307 www.fireandwaterfestival.org

Heart of Cajun Country

FESTIVALS & EVENTS 2014

NE W from tHe HIS tor I c ne w orLe anS coLLec tIon A Company Man: The Remarkable French-Atlantic Voyage of a Clerk for the Company of the Indies

by Marc-Antoine Caillot edited by Erin M. Greenwald Recently rediscovered and never before published, this buoyant and often irreverent memoir recounts a young man’s 1729 voyage from Paris to the New World. A centerpiece of The Collection’s archival “Caillot’s mishaps on land and water . . . seesaw

holdings, the Caillot narrative, featuring his own

between harrowing and hilarious. A Company Man

charming illustrations, stands as one of the most

will delight general readers and specialists for years

significant finds in colonial history in well over

to come.”

a century.

— Lawrence n.. Powell, author of The Accidental City: Improvising New Orleans

The Historic New Orleans Collection museum • resea rch center • pu blisher P U B L I S H I n g t H e c U Lt U r e & H I S t o r y of new orLe anS & tHe gULf SoUtH

w w w. h n o c . o r g

NOw AvAilAb le

Noms des Poissons (names of fish), 1729

• www. AcOm pANymAN bOOk.cOm

Melrose Festival

Natchitoches, adding that the festival also includes fabulous food and live music.

Full day admission is $5 per person and it provides a discount on guided tours of the historic structures at Melrose. Funds benefit the preservation and maintenance of Melrose Plantation.

One of Louisiana’s longest-running arts and crafts festivals, held on the majestic grounds of an iconic plantation, is just around the corner.

The 40th Annual Melrose Plantation Arts and Crafts Festival, held near Natchitoches, features original work from more than 100 vendors from across the country, and is a must for those who appreciate fine crafts. It will be held May 3, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and May 4, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Melrose Plantation dates to 1796 and is one of Louisiana’s best-known plantation homes, where folk artist Clementine Hunter lived and painted. Melrose is located at 3533 Highway 119 in Melrose, Louisiana.

“Visitors can enjoy the day with family and friends while supporting regional artists, craftsmen and the beautiful Melrose Plantation,” notes Molly Dickerson, of the Association for the Preservation of Historic

For information about becoming a vendor, email info@melrose.plantation.org. Learn more at www.melroseplantation.org.

40th Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Fest May 3rd and 4th Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday 10am-3pm Held at the historic Melrose Plantation, enjoy over 100 artisans!

Enjoy food, fun and entertainment just south of Natchitoches, LA

3533 Highway 119

Melrose, Louisiana 71452

www.melroseplantation.org

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Heart of Cajun Dallas - NorthCountry Texas

Original Artwork and Crafts are Crowd Pleasers at

Dallas - North Texas

Natchez

Natchez, Mississippi

Sprin g Pilgrima ge

Come celebrate Azaleas, Architecture

and

Captures the Essence of the South

America’s History!

For ticket information, private guides, group tours and other information on all things Natchez, call or visit our website.

Spring Pilgrimage March 8 – April 8, 2014

NATCHEZ PILGRIMAGE TOURS

1-800-647-6742 info@natchezpilgrimage.com www.natchezpilgrimage.com 30

It is time to start planning your trip to Natchez, Mississippi for its ever- popular Spring Pilgrimage, which offers an array of cultural activities that allow you to experience the essence of the South in one visit.

Held March 8 – April 8, 2014, Spring Pilgrimage offers tours of 27 antebellum homes, most of which are private homes opened to the public only for these 4 weeks every year. The hosts and hostesses that will guide you through these homes will be dressed in period costumes, portraying historical characters from each homes unique story.

There will also be evening entertainment available every night during Spring Pilgrimage. The Historic Natchez Tableaux is unique to Natchez and brilliantly depicts life in antebellum Natchez through tableaux, song and dance.

Then, join us for a laugh at the Natchez Little Theatre for a performance of Southern Exposure, the hilarious Broadway satire of the Natchez Pilgrimage during the 1950s.

Finally, no trip to the South is complete without a little gospel. Southern Road to Freedom is a stirring tribute to the African American experience in Natchez by the awardwinning Holy Family Church Choir.

Natchez has something to offer every traveler! Make your plans to come celebrate azaleas, architecture and America’s history and see for yourself why we say Natchez is What You Love about the South. You’ll also quickly understand why Conde Nast magazine readers recently chose Natchez as #7 in the top 10 friendliest places to visit.

For more information call Natchez Pilgrimage Tours at 800.647.6742 or visit our website at natchezpilgrimage.com.

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

MISSISSIPPI

Patience to weave a perfect basket, and Vision to transform clay into a graceful piece of pottery.

Visit the Rid gelan d Arts Fes tiva l

April 5-6, 2014 Renaissance at Colony Park A juried fine arts festival with 80 of America’s finest artists

These qualities and more have helped Ridgeland, Mississippi grow from a small artist colony to a premier shopping destination with more than 140 restaurants and quality accommodations. Its annual juried Fine Arts Festival, April 5 – 6, is the perfect showcase of Ridgeland’s talents.

Featuring

The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the famed Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile National Scenic Byway, with 157 types of birds, state parks, riding trails, historic interpretations and cultural opportunities. For example, the Mississippi Craft Center showcases traditional and contemporary crafts. The 33,000 –acre Ross Barnett Reservoir hosts parks, boating, fishing, swimming, trails and disc golf. Visitors can shop at art galleries, specialty shopping venues, boutiques and antique store. Explore visitredigeland.com to view special events.

Saturday Evening

* Benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association * tickets are limited to Wine Festival

Weekend Art & Wine Lodging Packages Available

Downton Tea Truck Offers a Cuppa PBS gave fans of the “Downton Abbey” Crawley clan free tea and biscuits from a mobile tea truck tooling around New York City prior to rhe premiere of season 4.

The truck was parked at a different Manhattan location each day for the week leading up to the big show.

Costumed servers doled out free tea and cookies to fans and let them take photos against the backdrop of Highclere Castle.

800-468-6078 • ridgelandartsfest.com

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Mississippi Awaits Dallas - North TexasYou

It takes a delicate touch to create Culinary Masterpieces,

Houston - Gulf Celebrate TeaCoast

fLUSH

SpRInG

Spring is cause for celebration for lovers of the leaf. The dormancy period is over for the tea plants and the hillsides are radiant with young, fragrant leaves. Rich in essential oils, these prized leaves yield a delicate flavor for the first flush (picking) of the year. TEA in TEXAS applauds these outstanding Texas tea purveyors that present prized blends for 2014.

BELLAIRE Organic Pecan Pie Rooibos A true staple of Southern cuisine without the guilt!

Creamy caramel bits, fresh pecan slivers and vanilla bean blended with delicate honey notes of Rooibos is the perfect treat. $9 (2oz.) McHugh TEA 713-218-6300 www.mchughtea.com

SUGARLAND Nantucket Breeze High quality Ceylon tea leaves infused with the bold flavor of fragrant blueberries and hints of rich vanilla. Enjoy all the health benefits of loose leaf black tea any way you like it - with or without milk.

Serenitea Tea Room 281-491-4588 www.SereniteaTeaRoom.com

KERRVILLE Hill Country Lavender Lemon The inspiration for this blend was to create a soothing & refreshing tea. With lemongrass, lemon, hibiscus and just enough lavender for a lovely floral bouquet, it is heavenly and aromatic. $8.50 (3 oz.) Wild Springs Tea www.wildspringstea.com

Our friendship is like a cup of tea.

A special blend of you and me.

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

GRAPEVINE Legend of the Alamo The legendary battle and lovely mission inspire a wild green tea blend for those who desire to lay seige to their thirst with sencha, roses and rosemary. $11.95 (3 oz.)

Beatitudes Tea Room 817-488-8850

Q&A

by Penny Ward

I have a small group of friends that love getting together for tea parties.

We would like to change it up a bit this year. Do you have any ideas how we could do that?

Thank you for asking; this actually falls in line with my New Year’s Resolution.

Last year I challenged everyone to Be Kinder; this year I am challenging everyone to think of ways to Give Back.

How do you incorporate this into your tea parties? Well, we love to party for the pleasure of each other’s company; now, party with a purpose!

Search out a local charity, non-profit, or ministry you can support. Find out what they need and incorporate the need into your party theme.

Have everyone bring items to donate to the party for the charity.

For instance, in ye ar s p a s t I have done a Teddy B ear Tea. Everyone brought a new

For Valentine’s Day you could pick a project that you have a “heart” for and incorporate it into your heart-themed tea. A Chocolate Tea with tea cups brought for donation to a women’s center would be sweet.

Last year at Easter, I gave my girlfriends (my “peeps”) a s m a l l p a c k of marshmallow Peeps with a card s t at i ng t h at a donation had been made to Heifer.org for flocks of chicks to impoverished countries.

I see a wonderful oppor tunity in April for an April Showers themed event with a baby shower of gifts to go to a local crisis pregnancy center; or, shower a local women’s shelter/transition center with household goods for their new homes.

Perhaps in the summer, a Spa-themed Tea would be an ideal occasion for collecting bath toiletries for shelters. Fall is a perfect time for a Back to School Tea to collect school supplies. Winter is great for collecting cozy items like blankets, socks, stocking stuffers, etc.

Also, I am asked often to donate gift baskets for charity auctions. It would be fun to make themed baskets at your event with the items you and your guests bring for the baskets.

This is just the beginning! Everyone can make a difference, no matter how small, in making the lives of others more comfortable and enjoyable. That is good manners!

Penny Ward is a Certified Etiquette Instructor and Certified Tea & Etiquette Instructor. She is a speaker, event planner, and the owner of It’s an Affair of the Heart. She is also the founder and director of Houston Academy of Etiquette and Protocol, and can be contacted at www.pennyward.com.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

33

Houston Tea Etuquette - GulfQ&A Coast

TeaEtiquette

teddy bear to the event and, as a result, hundreds of teddy bears were donated to a local shelter and other missions.

Houston Gulf Coast Book- Reviews

A

s winter’s chill warms into Spring, authors Laura Childs and Susan Branch provide tea-loving bibliophilists new books for savoring while sipping their favorite tea.

Reviews by Janet Pool

STEEPED IN EVIL

by Laura Childs

Laura Childs STEEPED IN EVIL is the latest in the Tea Shop Mystery series. At the invitation of Jordan Knight, proprietor of the Knighthall Winery, Theodosia Browning is guest at a fancy wine-tasting party. The festive evening turns somber when the body of Jordan Knight’s son is discovered in one of the wine barrels.

The police investigation seemingly comes to a standstill, and Knight enlists Theodosia’s help in solving the murder. Numerous suspects and motives combined with twists and turns along the way make for a riveting read sure to keep readers attention until the end.

Childs recipes inspire a festive affair. After all, who could resist Apricot Scones, Blue Cheese and Grape Tea Sandwiches, Ladybug Tea Sandwiches, and Drayton’s Coconut Iced Tea?

A FINE ROMANCE

by Susan Branch

Falling in love with the English Countryside by Susan Branch intertwines the love story of Branch and her husband Joe, with their dreams “of taking a voyage to England on an ocean liner.” And guess what? “To celebrate our 25th Anniversary,

34

we did just that, crossed the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2 & spent two months wandering the English Countryside.” Utilizing her charming illustrations, photographs, and whimsical texts, A FINE ROMANCE invites readers to join them “on their quest for serendipity & discovery.” In preparation, they packed “Everything” including “…an electric tea kettle, our mugs … my favorite lavender-Earl Grey tea…& Joe’s favorite, PG Tips (because everyone knows how hard it is to find tea in England!)”

Sightseeing fun ensues as she and Joe “walk ancient footpaths over hill & dale, along winding hedgerows to castles, cottages, romantic gardens, tea rooms, antique stores & pubs.” The homes of Beatrix Potter, Rudyard Kipling, Jane Austin and James Herriot provided special memories.

With the inclusion of “recipes, maps, and travel tips,” A FINE ROMANCE is a captivating read. And, after peering over the shoulder of this charming author, you may feel as though you’ve found a new friend.

TEA FOR THREE

by Laura Childs

L aura Childs continues encouraging readers to hone their sleuthing skills alongside Indigo Tea Shop owner Theodosia Browning. At first glance, TEA FOR THREE (an anthology) might seem of interest only to readers just now discovering the Tea Shop Mysteries. However, even veteran readers will enjoy re-reading these first three books in this series.

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Welcome to Conroe Weddings * Receptions * Special Events * Teas * Luncheons * Corporate Functions

www.BurkeshirePlantation.com 915 N.Frazier Conroe, Texas 77301 936.441.0949 (Metro)

GUNPOWDER GREEN begins with Theodosia Browning catering the Charleston Yacht Club’s annual Isle of Palms Yacht Race. Excitement builds as the “sleek J-24s hurtle towards the finish line,” when the race takes a tragic turn. “The ancient Civil War pistol used for the traditional finishing line gunshot suddenly explodes, killing the patriarch from one of Charleston’s oldest families.” As Theodosia’s curiosity gets the better of her, she begins to wonder if this “was truly an accident – or murder?”

SHADES OF EARL GREY gets off to a rocky start when the engagement soiree for Camille Cantroux, the niece of Theodosia’s friend Delaine Dish, turns deadly. After the groom – to – be is killed in a freak accident, Theodosia discovers that the “wedding ring… is mysteriously missing.” At Delaine’s pleading, Theodosia agrees to help search for the ring. Will her sleuthing skills uncover the culprit?

Childs trademark recipes, tea time tips, and tea resources are included at the conclusion of each book and readers will be pleased to discover 16 new recipes in addition to those originally published. A tantalizing teatime might include: Tropical Chicken Salad Spread, Charleston Chocolate Chip Scones, Drayton’s Devonshire Cream, Haley’s Apple Bread, and Drayton’s Tea Sangria.

I

f Spring holidays happen to be a favorite

time for hosting tea parties, the ideas and recipes shared by Branch and Childs are sure to provide

Mimi

Gayle “ ” Burke invites you to visit on Main CONROE

Antiques Collectibles Gifts Home Decor Vintage

An Antique Mall and More!

312 North Main Conroe, Texas 77301 (Downtown across from Courthouse)

936-441-0002

"Stars" Over Brenham Quilt Show presented by the

fresh inspiration and spark your creativity. With

Friendship Quilt Guild

the arrival of February and St. Valentine’s Day, our

Friday, February 7, 2014 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 8, 2014 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

hearts are drawn to love and romance.

Admission $5 – Children under 6 free

Fireman’s Training Center

Janet Pool enjoys reading, traveling with her husband, paper crafts and, of course, anything related to tea! Read more with Janet at letshaveatea.googlepages.com

1101 Hwy. 290 W Brenham, TX 77833

Friendship Quilt Guild meets at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the Brenham Church of Christ 2800 Victory Ln. - Brenham, TX 77833

February February--March March--April April2014 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

35

Houston - Gulf Coast

DEATH BY DARJEELING introduces readers to Theodosia Browning, the proprietor of Charleston’s Indigo Tea Shop.

With the “Lamplighter Tour of historic homes garden party” in full swing, caterer Theodosia Browning “is busy serving steaming teas and blackberry scones.” When one of the guests is found dead – “his hand clutching an empty teacup,” Theodosia realizes that her “reputation is suddenly on the line.”

Will she be able to unravel this mystery “before someone else takes their last sip…?”

Quilt Corner Dallas - North Texas

quilting & craft CALENDAR Every Friday – Sunday Community Flea Market of Granbury Arts and crafts, home-grown produce and much more. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., 41101 Glen Rose Highway.

Every Saturday Farmer’s Market Chestnut Square, McKinney Enjoy produce, gourmet treats, crafts and more, 8 a.m. to noon at 315 Chestnut Street in McKinney. Trolley tours of the historic district: 972-562-8790; chestnutsquare.org.

Third Saturday -Art Gumbo Community Market at Houmas House, Darrow, Louisiana Arts and crafts from local artisans, under the majestic oak trees at Houmas House Plantation , 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. the third Saturday of every month. Make a reservation for tea at the Tea House at Houmas House. Call (225) 473-9380; www.houmashouse.com.

Ongoing, Marquis de Lafayette Quilt - Lafayette Louisiana View a beautiful quilt honoring Louisiana’s history and the role the Marquis de Lafayette played in the Louisiana Purchase, at Lafayette City Hall. The quilt was made by the Quilters Guild Acadienne in Lafayette. 705 W. University. 337-291-8800.

Ongoing, Louisiana Quilt Trail Features six individual trails in Central and Southern Louisiana.

Wooden quilt squares on businesses, homes, barns and fences identify significant points. The closest starting point to Texas is Washington Parish, www.louisianaquilttrail.com.

March 7 – 9 Dallas Quilt Celebration Presented by the Quilter’s Guild of Dallas at Dallas Market Hall, the show’s theme is Modern Quilts. It features more than 400 quilts on display, more than $14,000 in prize money, lectures, appraisals, vendors, demonstrations, special exhibits, a mini quilt auction and quilt tours. Entry deadline is January 2. Learn more at www. quiltersguildof dallas.org.

March 22 Art in the Park, Orange More than 75 artists and craftspeople will display their work. Enjoy fabulous food and live jazz and country music, children’s activities including pony rides, moon-bounce, face painting; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Call 409-883-1011.

April 5 -6 Ridgeland Fine Arts Festival, Mississippi A juried fine arts festival featuring America’s finest artsts and SanteSouth Wine Festival, which is Mississippi’s finest wine and food event.. Named a Top 100 Fine Arts Festival by the Arts Festival Sourcebook. Includes a Student Gallery, Children’s Craft Corner, Chef ’s Table and more.

April 11 – 13 Semi-Annual Antique Fair & Yard Sale, Washington, Louisiana Find a one-of-a-kind treasure on your visit to St. Landry Parish at the Old Schoolhouse Antique Mall in Washington’s Semi-Annual Antique Fair & Yard Sale. Learn more at www.oldschoolhouseantiquemall.com.

Saturdays and Sundays, April 5 – May 26 Scarborough Renaissance Festival, Waxahachie Enjoy 20 stages of entertainment, 200 shoppes featuring handcrafted, one-of-a-kind items, games of skill, food and beverage in a recreated 16th-century English village.

April 17 Ladies’ Night Out, Heard-Craig Center for the Arts An evening designed to celebrate the spirit of friendship, with hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music and fabulous shopping, 6 p.m.

– 9 p.m. at Heard-Craig Hall. Advance ickets: $20/members, $25 nonmembers. At the door: $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers.

Visit www.heardcraig.org or call 972-569-6909.

April 25-26 Heart of Texas Quilt Show, Brownwood Join the Brownwood Quilters Guild for their annual Heart of Texas Quilt Show. Brownwood Coliseum, 500 E. Baker, Brownwood, 10a.m.–5p.m. Fri, 10a.m.–4p.m. Sat. BrownwoodQuiltersGuild. org.

May 3-4 Melrose Arts and Crafts Festival, Natchitoches Come, stay and shop in Louisiana’s oldest town of Natchitoches.

Melrose Plantation, located just outside of Natchitoches in Melrose, is a famous plantation home where folk artist Clementine Hunter lived and painted. Admission is $5. Melroseplantation.org.

36

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

nte

ur h

By Rose Ann Cook

wi

ou

se

m

.

Quilts can be used as art for your walls in any room.

Stitching a simple hanging sleeve across the top of the back of a quilt allows you to slide a curtain rod through it and hang it almost anywhere! It might be While much of the country is deep in the wise to keep your color themes throes of winter’s sleet and snow, Texas in mind. For instance you could hang a red, is blessed in that we can toss open white and blue nautical quilt on the aning it and transfo e our windows early and welcome l wall and lay a blue and white c rm ally ing quilt on the bed in a boy’s c i the freshness of spring! fro ag room.

M

L et

te a cu

spr ing!

fair y hover over yo

r to

After the sparkle and color of the holidays are safely stored away, it is common to feel that our homes are sterile and plain. There is much to be said for the process of spring cleaning. After surfaces are freshly washed, painted or polished, clutter is cleared away and needed repairs are complete, we can put our plans into place for decorating our homes for spring.

Quilts, old and new, have long been used to provide warmth on our beds. Well don’t stop there! The color, pattern and texture of quilts are perfect for providing beauty throughout your home!

Try displaying your quilt collection on rustic ladders or folded and stacked neatly in a bookcase in your living room or den.

Even if you have just individual quilt blocks, you can frame them and use them as art throughout your home.

Drape a soft, colorful quilt across the back of your easy chair. Then you can snuggle up with it while you enjoy your first cuppa on a cool morning. The point is, quilts are not just utilitarian… they are beautiful too! This spring, be sure the beauty of your quilts is on display for all to see!

Rose Ann Cook is the owner of Quilter’s Emporium Quilt Shop in the Houston/ Stafford area. The store celebrates its 10th year in 2014 and has been featured as a Top 10 Shop in the Fall 2010 issue of Quilt Sampler magazine. Rose Ann is the author of “Czecherboard QuiltsStories from My Father’s Family”.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

37

Decorating with Quilts

Cleaning and Decorating for Spring!

Lay a quilt (one that you don’t mind washing) on your dining table and use it as your table cloth. Your tea service would look particularly beautiful on that, wouldn’t it?

N O

T S U

O H

HOUSTON traveling

TEA

tea lecturEs 5 Hour Bus Outing in the City!

Step-On Guide Showcasing Houston’s Heritage and It’s Craze with Tea, Restored Victorian Neighborhoods, Local Museum Visit, Door Prizes, Three-Course Afternoon Tea, Shopping and Tea Tasting.

TEAinTEXAS Tea Tours 832-922-9335 info@teaintexas.com $19.95 + Lunch for Seniors (min 20) $39.95 + Lunch for Groups (min 8) Transportation not included, conditions apply.

ll Ca r t Fo ecinc Pr counts Dis

Texas Border City LOVES Iced Tea

Where Houston Shops in Britain

Harlingen is located in the Rio Grande Valley of the southern portion of Texas in Cameron County. It’s close to the popular South Padre Island Beach as well as world class bird watching locations.

Harlingen Tops Iced Tea Market Harlingen, TX has the highest percentage of Iced Tea Drinkers in the country. Forty-one percent of adults here consumed bottled tea during a 2012 study. Philadelphia (39%) and New York (37%) round out the top three markets for Iced Tea Drinkers.

BritishIslesOnline.com 2366 Rice Blvd.

713.522.6868

9:30-6:30 Mon-Sat 12-5 Sun

Don’t ever underestimate the power of hot tea in a warm atmosphere with cool friends!

Green Bay, Portland, OR, and Salt Lake City are the least likely markets to drink iced tea.

*Iced Tea Drinkers are defined as those adults who consumed tea in bottles or cans during the week.

See more at: http://scarborough.com SOURCE: Scarborough USA+ Study, Release 2, 2012.

Monday - Saturday 11 AM - 5 PM 713.218.6300 www.mchughtea.com

of Bissonnet and 5305 Bissonnet ( corner Ferris by Amegy Bank )

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

39

Houston - Gulf Coast

BritishINIsles THE VILLAGE

Houston - Gulf Coast

greater houston CALENDAR February through 23 Washington’s Birthday Celebration, Laredo Some of the highlights are the American Historical Theatre George Washington Performance, Founding Fathers 5K Fun Run and Health Fair, WBCA Stars and Stripes Air Show Spectacular, Jalapeno Festival, Washington’s Birthday Parade.

February 15, March 15 and April 19 Prairie Street Heritage House, Columbus Tea is available in Columbus, Texas at The Camellia Tea Room. Stop by for tea in a traditional elegant tea room fare in an historical venue and atmosphere. High Tea will be offered at 2:00 p.m. Rates $15 per person. Reservations 979-732-5555. prairiestreetheritagehouse.com February 15 Tea Time with Lady Lewis Crossroads Collection Tea Room, Old Town Spring Come and experience something magical at Lady Lewis

Putting The Pieces Together...

Beautiful quilting fabric, kits, books, patterns, sewing machines, quilting cruises, classes and more.

Classes for quilting, embroidery, crazy quilting and more are available.

Helpful and friendly staff.

NEWLY RELEASED Czecherboard Quilts

by Rose Ann Cook

Chosen as a Top 10 Quilt Shop by Better Homes and Gardens Quilt Sampler magazine (Fall 2010)

Open 7 days a week Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

(281) 491-0016, (800) 395-7794 quiltersemporium.com 11925 Southwest Freeway, Suite 11 Stafford, TX 77477 (just outside of Houston)

40

Tea Etiquette Party. Bring your daughter(s) dressed in her tea attire and fancy hat as we enjoy a fine pot of tea, warm delicious scones, and a refresher of tea etiquette essentials and social manners. 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Cost: $60.00, Attire: Tea Attire w/Fancy Hat 281-528-6550 February 26 Valentines and Downton Abbey Tea Your Cup of Tea, Houston Valentines & Downton Abbey tea from 11:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Reservations only, menu on line. Also starting Tuesday March 4th we will be serving a lite evening super. It will be every Tuesday and Wednesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. menu will be on line end of February, walk in’s welcome but reservations preferred. This tearoom is one of the favorite stops on the Tea in Texas Tea Tour. urcupoftea. com or call 713-334-4832.

March (entire month) March Madness, Alvin Antique Center and Annie’s Tea Room, Alvin See coupon for Annie’s Tea Room in this magazine for a free desert with purchase of an entree. Store wide sales at Alvin Antique Center & Marketplace, located in Alvin, TX. on Bypass 35, a must for shopping! Visit the 55,000 square foot mall for a unique experience. Over 160 dealers with booths packed full of special one¬of¬a¬kind must haves. Come by and visit the Best Antique Mall in Texas! Hours are 10:00-6 pm, 2500 S. Loop 35, Alvin, Texas 77511. 281-¬585-¬6877 alvinantiquecenter.com March 6 TEAin TEXAS Tea Blending Workshop Crossroads Collection Tea Room, Old Town Spring Create your own blend of tea infused with fresh herbs and spices with Lee Garcia, editor of Tea in Texas Magazine.

11am $25 lunch, workshop and prizes. 281-528-6550 March 7-9 Annual Azalea Trail, Houston Sponsored by the River Oaks Garden Club (ROGC), Features four private River Oaks homes in Houston and three wellknown historic sites: Bayou Bend, Rienzi and the River Oaks Garden. Proceed go toward maintenance of ROGC building and Gardens, Bayou Bend Gardens, Sadie Gwin Blackburn Environmental Seminar and Publication of a Garden Book for Houston and Texas Gulf Coast. Tickets $20.00, 713-5232483, riveroaksgardenclub.org Mar16-31 Art League of Baytown Spring Show, Baytown This is an art competition open to members and nonmembers. This year’s judge is Mark Nesmith. Log onto our website for details on categories, registration, entry fees and awards. art-league-of-baytown.org, 281-427-2222 March 24 Tea + Tour at Bayou Bend, Houston Experience springtime at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, house museum for American art and antiques. Enjoy afternoon tea in the Cottage Courtyard followed by a collection tour.

713.639.7750 mfah.org/bayoubend.

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

March 29-31 Texas Springfest Festival, Old Town Spring Visitors can sample wines from Texas vineyards. Local Texas artists and artisans will display their work and answer questions about their art. A wide range of products produced or made in Texas, food vendors, exhibits! oldtownspringfest. com April 4-6 Heights Home & Garden Tour, Houston Six Spectacular homes and gardens—each reflecting the unique character and architecture of one of Houston’s most cherished and eclectic neighborhoods. houstonheights.org April 12 Tea Time with Lady Lewis Crossroads Collection Tea Room, Old Town Spring Monica Lewis School of Etiquette Presents: “Tea Time with Lady Lewis”. Come and experience something magical at Lady Lewis Tea Etiquette Party. Bring your son(s) dressed in his best attire as we enjoy a fine pot of tea, warm delicious scones, and a refresher of tea etiquette essentials and social manners 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Cost: $60.00 per participant (Ages 6-12), Attire: Best Attire.

281-528-6550 April 24 SAFD Gala Society for the Advancement of Floral Designs, Houston A gala evening that is complete with dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Members also get to show off their skills by decorating spectacular tablescapes for the event. Come meet new friends and appreciate the talented TEXAS florists.

Benefits local college scholarhips. safdhouston.org May 3-4 Urban Market Houston Antique Show, Houston An extraordinary outdoor antique and home decor market held three times a year in Houston. A fabulous collection of dealers, designers, and shop owners with spectacular antiques, furniture, and home decor at unbelievable deals! theurbanmarkethouston.com May 10 Mother’s Day Tea Mad Hatters Tea Room, Caldwell Celebrate with you special gal in a historic town, just north of College Station. Tea and Fashion show. Tea includes three courses Savories, Scones and Pastries. Three seatings available, 11:00 a.m., 12:30 and 2:00 p.m. Cost $25.00, madhatterstearoom.com, 979-567-3504

Best finds in West Houston...

For Afternoon Tea BECAUSE LIFE IS ABOUT THE LITTLE INDULGENCES. Afternoon Tea Served Every Saturday 2-4 pm.

Four course tea featuring our special chai blend, Champagne, tasty open faced sandwiches, home made desserts and scones with clotted cream.

4100 Westheimer (next to Highland Village) kiranshouston.com | 713.960.8472

For Designer Resale Shops

For Fine Antiques

14034 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77079

(281) 920-9424

Mon.-Sat. 10AM-6PM Sun. 12AM-5PM Located at Memorial & Kirkwood

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

41

Houston - Gulf Coast

March 26-29 Greater Houston Shop Hop, Houston Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.,Theme is “A Quilting Stampede” Join us for lots of awesome prizes, fun giveaways, uniqueprojects, and new friendships! houstonshophop. com.

Cooking with Tea

Cooking

withTEA

by Elizabeth Escobedo

Steaming with Tea Eating vegetables at every meal is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle. As a mom, I am always thinking of creative ways to cook vegetables so that my children don’t pick them off their plates. I try to retain the vegetables’ color, texture, and flavor, as well as maintain their nutritional value, so I love to stir-fry vegetables and then add a splash of water, covering the pan, and finishing off the cooking by steaming.

Ginger-Garlic Haricot Vert with Green Tea Haricots verts, French for “green beans”, also known as French green beans, is a variety of green bean that is longer and thinner. They cook faster due to their size and my kids love that they cook more crisp and tender than regular green beans. YIELD: 4 SERVINGS 1 pound haricots verts, washed, trimmed and patted dry 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon minced, fresh ginger Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste ¼ cup green tea 1. Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok or 12 inch skillet over high heat. The pan should be hot, but not smoking.

Add the oil, and then the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 10 seconds until you can smell the aromatics.

2. Add the haricots verts and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Add the tea along the sides of the pan, cover, and steam for another 2 minutes.

4. Uncover and continue stir-frying until crisp-tender.

Serve immediately.

However, in a quest to add even more flavor and interest to my vegetables, I began to add tea as the steaming liquid in the pan. I found that the possibilities were endless, such as stir-fried green beans with green tea, baby carrots with orange pekoe, and broccoli with Earl Grey. It is important to cook vegetables that are in season and cut them into pieces of similar size so that they cook and absorb the tea flavors evenly. I stir-fry and steam my vegetables in a wok, but a saute pan or wide skillet works as well.

The next time your veggies need a flavor boost, try steaming them with tea and you’ll be surprised at how quickly they disappear.

42

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Elizabeth Escobedo is a culinary instructor, food writer and tea lover.

She teaches at Central Market, Lake Austin Spa, and private events. Elizabeth loves to incorporate tea as a surprise ingredient in many of her recipes. She resides in Houston, Texas, and on her free time, she enjoys travelling, organic gardening, and enjoying teatime with family and friends.

Houston - Gulf Coast

Your Cup of Tea

A quaint and traditional English Tea Room in the heart of Houston.

Open for Lunch and Tea

Bridal Showers Bridal Luncheons Bridesmaids Tea Rehearsal Dinners

713-334-4832 2620 Fondren urcupoftea.com

Tea + Tour

aT BaYou BeND

Monday, March 24 | 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.

Experience springtime at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, house museum for American art and antiques.

Enjoy afternoon tea in the Cottage Courtyard followed by a collection tour.

Admission is $45. Advance purchase required.

Tickets & Info: 713.639.7750 | mfah.org/bayoubend

6003 Memorial Drive

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

43

Houston - Gulf Coast

TEA ROOM Private Parties Meetings Catering Party Trays Orders To Go

y d a Re e h t t Tea a

Every da y has tea pa rty poten tial!

by Paula Myers

154 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 Hours : 11- 2

Monday - Saturday

281-992-8327 (teas) Located Inside Alvin Antique Center

Annie's

Tea Room & Cafe

When you have a Tea at the Ready mindset the slightest provocation will lead to a delightful opportunity for tea.

And Spring is full of possibilities!

Tuesday - Saturday Lunch 11 am - 3 pm Sunday Tea & Desserts 12 pm - 3 pm

Mention this ad!

Get a Free Dessert with Your Entree One per table

Special Events Private Parties, Birthdays, Showers, Meetings, Children's and Adult Tea's

Is your favorite aunt is facing her first Valentine’s Day without her sweetheart?

Cut out heart shaped sandwiches and ask her to share her love story with you.

2500 South Loop 35 Alvin, TX 77511 Ph: 281-585-6877

photo courtesy of flaxandtwine.com

Continued on pg. 46

44

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Houston - Gulf Coast

...a charming and friendly Texas tearoom with a unique atmosphere for you and your friends with a garden, gifts and great food!

Open Mon. - Sat. 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM Reservations Encouraged - (281) 426-3670

flowers

tea and

the perfect duo.

Come to Baytown

for the finest floral arrangements at Boyd’s Blossoms and stay for lunch at the Mustard Seed Tea Room.

Serving Faith Daily

112 Denny Street, Highlands, TX 77562

(20 miles east of downtown Houston, exit 787 from I-10 east)

TeapotDepotGreatFood.com

The Art League of Baytown welcomes new members and you don’t have to be an artist to join us!

Visitors will love browsing through the Art Center of Baytown, once the F.W. Woolworth building, constructed in 1924.

THE ART LEAGUE OF BAYTOWN IS CELEBRATING ITS 60TH BIRTHDAY

FEB 16 Monthly Meeting at 2 p.m.; oil painting demo

by Vie Dunn-Harr.

PHOTOGRAPHY SCULPTURE PAINTINGS DRAWINGS POTTERY JEWELRY AND OTHER ART MEDIA

BUSINESS HOURS:

Wed–Sat 10-4 p.m.

110 W. Texas Ave Baytown, Texas 77520

281.427.2222

art-league-of-baytown.org

Artwork of over 30 local artists is on exhibit for sale.

FEB 17-18-19 Oil Painting workshop

by Vie Dunn Harr.

Cost- $365 per student.

Limited to 15 students.

MAR 16-31 Spring Art Show. This is an art competition open to members and non-members.

Log onto our website for details on categories, registration, entry fees and awards. This year’s judge is Mark Nesmith.

MARCH 16 Monthly Meeting and Annual Spring Show Reception and Awards Presentation.

APRIL 13 Monthly meeting at 2 p.m.; demo by Marsha L. Landers: “Form Follows Function”– methods in making wheel thrown pottery, trimming, and surface decoration.

RISING STARS Art Classes on Tuesdays 5:30-7:30 p.m.

APRIL 15 Easter Party and art class 5:30 p.m.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

45

Houston - Gulf Coast

From page 44

A child in your life has questions about leprechauns pick up some shamrock cookies and green tea a n d do a web search to learn about them together.

Celebrate the first bloom in your garden or just invite a neighbor over and try out a new recipe. Every day has tea party potential!

Keep a Tea Cabinet Set aside a spot in your kitchen where your tea goodies are ready and waiting. Having a variety of teas on hand, a special box or two of cookies, sugar cubes, and pretty napkins will give you the confidence to offer a quick cup to a friend or two on a moment’s notice. If adding more tea times to your life is a desire of yours, keep your cabinet and your attitude “at the ready”. Try it today with these simple and delicious crackers.

Flaxseed Crackers 1/2 c flaxseeds 1 1/2 c flour 1/2 t baking powder 1/2 t salt 4 T softened butter 1/2 c lowfat milk Combine flaxseeds, flour, baking powder, salt and butter in a mixer and blend until it resembles a coarse meal.

Sandwiches, Soups, Ice Cream, Milk Shakes, Malts, Ice Cream Sodas, Sundaes, Banana Splits and Homemade Specials!

Add milk and mix until the dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 10 min. Divide dough into four equal pieces and roll out each on a lightly floured surface.

Roll as thin as possible. Transfer carefully to a sheet pan and bake until golden and crisp, about 12-15 minutes, at 325 degrees. Cool and break into irregular pieces. Serve with a soft cheese.

102 Market Street Tomball, TX 77375 281-516-1942 Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11-6pm Friday - Saturday 11-8pm Sunday 12 - 6pm | Closed Monday Located in the Barns at the Depot across from the Historic Depot Plaza

Free

cup of soup

with purchase of any sandwich

Cannot be combined with any other offer, one 5/1/14 coupon per customer. Expires 9/7/12

46

courtesy of scratch-made-wife.blogspot.com

Free

B U Y ice cream conegetoronecup ONE

Free cone must be of equal or lesser value. Cannot be combined with any other offer, one coupon per customer Expires 5/1/14 9/7/12

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Paula Myers is a recent empty nester who enjoys nothing better than a good cuppa tea and a “sit-down”. She also loves living in Houston and exploring the many opportunities for tea her city affords – often with a book beside her. She and her husband Matt enjoyed tea in Ireland recently.

Spring Take your tea outside for a spring wedding at the Discovery Green Park in Houston.

This 2009 event was inspired by the couples first date- a picnic, reenacted for 200 guests. The Mustard Seed Tea Room provided baskets of finger foods, Boyd’s Blossoms creatively decorated tiki torches with spring beauties. Flowers include hygrandeas, yellow gerbers daisies, blue delphinium and yellow roses.

Houston - Gulf Coast

Old Town Spring Offers a Fresh Line-Up

The 16th Annual SpringFest is serving up something a little different, expanding its boundaries and its palate. This year's event is opening up the door to craft beers.

Come and walk the tree lined streets as you taste craft beers and wines from coast to coast, eat delicious foods, shop the local craft vendors and town shops while listening to great music.

OLDTOWNSPRINGFEST.COM

It’s the best Crawfish and Zydeco Festival in the State.

Two weekends of great food and music. April 25-27 and May 2-4. Festival headliners include Charlie Daniels Band, Kevin Fowler, Los Lonely Boys, Jason Boland & the Stragglers, Ben Kweller, Bob Schneider, Alejandro Escovedo, Whiskey Myers and other amazing acts.

texascrawfishfestival.com

48

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Houston - Gulf Coast

The Hat People Available for Parties!

213 Main Street Spring, Texas 77373 281-288-4772 Open 11 am - 5pm Wednesday - Sunday

Great Baby Showers, Wedding Showers, Birthdays!

Home of Old Town Spice Tea Lunch · Afternoon Tea Freshly Baked Scones Desserts Gg’s is a unique gift boutique filled with fun & casual to simple & elegant.

Find items that we all know & love to those that will become your new favorite!

te a We can help you celebra

Call and let us book your tea party in style.

Tues-Sat 11-4 & Sun 12-4

281-528-6550

speci

t

123 Midway Old Town Spring, TX 77373 rth al even CrossroadsCollection.com

Bi

Sh owers, Bridal Showers

Enjoy these wonderful lines: Pandora Dian Malouf Niven Morgan Wine-A-Rita’s Nora Fleming Jon Hart ~ Yellow Box

days , Ba b y

Just too many to list, so come on in!

This Spring

shopgoldengypsies.com

Monogramming Available

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

49

Houston - Gulf Coast

“My joy is making something special for you to enjoy at tea time.”

Discover

La Gran ge

Always handmade just for you!

And visit Grandma @ TEAtitudes.com for Teapots, Trinket Boxes and Inspirational Gifts

Located on the banks of the Colorado River, halfway between Houston and Austin, La Grange is home to old world charm, historic assets, and fantastic shopping. Not only do the bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes bloom in the countryside of La Grange, we also host numerous special events and festivals held annually.

Beginning in the 1840s and 1850s, an increasing number of German and Czech immigrants settled in La Grange, since the rolling hills and forests were reminiscent of their homelands.

GrandmaRae.com and TEAtitudes.com or call 973-664-0986

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Today, the German and Czech influences on the town remain strong and can be seen in many of the local customs and architecture. This heritage is most prominent at The Texas Czech Cultural and Heritage Center which features The Czech Music Museum of Texas, a Texas Czech Village, and heritage library that visitors can use to discover their own ancestry.

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Many of the city’s attractions are located around the idyllic Fayette County Courthouse Square and Historic District.

This true Courthouse Square offers a shoppers paradise with trendy boutiques, specialty shops and tasty treats.

The most prominent natural feature in La Grange is the magnificent bluff that overlooks the Colorado River, offering a breathtaking view of the city. Situated on the bluff are the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites. Monument Hill refers to the art-deco stone monument inside the park commemorating heroes of the Texas War for Independence. The ruins of the third largest brewery in the state are also located on the grounds.

www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Gifts from the Lone Star State

The Scoop

Tea in Texas Magazine

Discover Cultural Travel & Regional Events

The Whistle Stop Serving Tomball for 20 years The Whistle Stop is proud to announce that they are celebrating 20 years of serving Tomball, Texas and the surrounding communites with delicious lunch speciailties and scrumptious decadent made in house desserts. Our house favorite Chicken Salad and Jalapeno Pimento Cheese sandwiches are perfectly paired with our signature Chicken Tortilla soup in our Soup and Sandwich Combo. Hot specials and crisp cold salads are offered daily with southern hospitality.

No less than 15 dessert slections are available in the dessert display case every day. The Croissant Bread Pudding, with warm buttery Rum Sauce, remains the most requested dessert. Yum-Yum is the most requested pie, but don’t miss the Italian Creme Cake, Pina Coloada Cake, Coconut Cream Pie, Triple Layered Chocolate Cake, Fruit and Cream Cakes, to just name a few. You will notice the sweet aroma of freshly baked desserts coming from their kitchen every day.

Four Issues per Year $19.95 Visit teaintexas.com

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They are also excited to announce that they now have a new location, just next door to the Tea Room, where you can pick up your take out orders and shop our retail space in The Whistle Stop Express or “The Express”.

New and exciting gifts will be arriving daily, from in and around Texas, such as San Saba’s Pie in a Jar, and toiletries from Tokyo Milk.

I recently picked up TEAinTEXAS Magazine in McKinney and have a copy in my travel bag.

I love to discover new places and look forward to stopping in small towns for tea and antiques.

- Linda B. 12/2013 February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Central Texas

South Texas News

Houston - Gulf Coast

Why Stay at a Bed & Breakfast?

By Virginia Walker, Ed. D.

The bed and breakfast lodging is a special segment of the travel industry. As such, they are usually identified as a private home or guest house that provides sleeping arrangements along with breakfast. The average size B&B is 3-6 rooms with private baths. A bed and breakfast lodge may be found in a large city near popular entertainment venues, a well preserved historical district in a small town, a farm or ranch, seaside town, mountain village or anywhere today’s traveler can be found.

Each one is unique to its locale, decor, and hospitality of B&B’s have the innkeepers. Each has a character of its own that will historically make cherished memories. Most B&B’s have historically catered to catered to the weekend traveler on vacation, however, the weekend the business traveler is seeking out B&Bs more now as traveler on the lodges are equipping themselves with high tech vacation, availability such as Wi-Fi, data ports, DVDs, and work however, now stations that the business traveler needs and expects. business travelers

are stopping in.

The majority of B&B’s are a family owned business with few if any outside employees. As a result, one can usually find the owners to be very people and service oriented and will go out of their way to ensure a pleasant stay.

In addition to the complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, snacks, and/or happy hour are provided. Some B&B’s cater to children with special menus, games, or other kid-friendly opportunities. Others cater to travelers with pets and are able to provide special arrangements for pets. Most B&B’s offer wedding packages that make the perfect day unforgettable.

One of the main reasons to choose a B&B over a motel or hotel is the friendships forged between other guests and the B&B owner.

As the Whitley’s from Houston, Texas commented “A beautiful property and a wonderful evening with discussion in the gazebo in the twilight. The amenities are great and the company great and cordial”.

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Add a Bed and Breakfast to your next travel plans...

Add a Bed and Breakfast to your next travel plan and enjoy the hospitality that is more than just a place to sleep.

You just may make memories and new friends that you never expected.

100-year old colonial revival home

Sandstone Street Bed & Breakfast

Full three-course breakfast served in dining room

This is one of the favorites served at Sandstone Street Bed and Breakfast in Llano, Texas:

Afternoon Tea served daily

Fruit-Filled Baked Oa tmeal

9 servings 3 cups quick- cooking oats 1 cup milk 1 cup packed brown sugar ½ 1/2 cup melted butter 2 teaspoons baking powder ¾ 3/4 cup chopped peeled tart apple 1 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup chopped fresh or frozen peaches 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw) 2 eggs lightly beaten

Three upstairs Rooms non-smoking, newly decorated, with period antiques, spa robes, Wi-Fi, HD-TV

325-423-2581 508 E. Sandstone Llano, Texas

“Where southern charm and Texas hospitality reside”

Within walking distance to Courthouse Square, Shopping, Restaurants, Library, Museum, Llano River

www.sandstonestreetbnb.com

Available for small events such as Small Weddings, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Birthday Parties, Tea Parties, Card/ Bunco Luncheons

Prairie Street Heritage House

1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Combine the eggs, milk and butter; add to the dry ingredients. Stir in the apple, peaches and blueberries.

Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room

1118 Prairie Street Columbus, Texas 78934 979-732-5555 | prairieteatime@att.net www.prairiestreetheritagehouse.com

2. Pour into an 8-inch square baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake uncovered at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Cut into squares. Serve with milk if desired.

Virginia Walker is a retired public education administrator and currently the owner of Sandstone Street Bed and Breakfast. She enjoys hosting tea parties for all occasions at the B&B and entertaining ladies groups who hold their meetings in the dining and living rooms. Virginia enjoys traveling, working in the garden, playing with her grandchildren, and savoring tea time with friends.

Offering High Teas - $15 - 3rd Saturday of month, 2:00 p.m.

Reservations required 979-732-5555

Feb 15th

March 15th

April 19th

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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Central Texas

And the Morris’s from Pampa, Texas wrote, “We had a wonderful time! The fellowship was great. The decor is inviting and oh so comfortable! Virginia and Jack made us feel like old friends. Breakfast was the best. We had a delightful experience. Thank you for your hospitality.”

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Our World in a Teapot Exhibit

Florida Artist Karen Paige Hillman

Her retreats are weekends escapes in which creative women gather to shop, connect and share inspiration.

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832-922-9335

Deep in the Art of Texas

One of Karen’s greatest passions is presenting artistic retreats around the country, the Lone Star State is one of her favorite retreat destinations.

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Texas News

Karen’s favorite Texas retreat venue is The Whitworth Ranch Retreat. Located in Scurry, 60 miles south east of Dallas, this hideaway offers accommodations for up to 18, two craft rooms, and delicious homemade meals.

The owner, Stacy Seely, welcomes all with hospitality bigger than Texas! Stacy can prepare everything from traditional Texas style fare to a tea luncheon as shown on the cover photo of this issue.

In 2012 and 2013, Karen hosted “Beauty in Blue” at the ranch and 12 women enjoyed art projects, shopping at the Canton Market and individual portraits taken at a local bluebonnet field. The weekend highlight was the “Blue Bonnet Ball” complete with country music, a traditional Texas dinner and ice tea-filled mason jars.

This year, Karen will present “Denim and Diamonds” in early October. Attendees will enjoy creating art projects using denim and rhinestones, 2 shopping days in Canton and a “Forever in Blue Jeans” Texas style evening.

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Making memories that leave an imprint on the heart is Whitworth Ranch Retreat’s greatest endeavor. Gather together some girlfriends and enjoy an unforgettable weekend at this special place in time.

To learn more about Karen Hillman’s art and events, visit her blog at ancientqueendesigns.blogspot.com. For information about Whitworth Ranch Retreat visit whitworth-ranch-retreat.com or call (817) 706-8118.

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www.teaintexas.com | February - March - April 2014

Spend an afternoon immersed in history at Orange, Texas’ remarkable W. H. Stark House, one of the most beautiful historic homes in the region. Constructed in 1894 in the Queen Anne architectural style, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark by the Texas Historical Commission.

The House has a distinguished collection of artistic pieces from around the globe, including a rare bronze of Napoleon’s Death Mask, and a one-of-a-kind sterling silver tea service.

On view through April in the Carriage House is a new exhibit, Pitcher Perfect, featuring rare and seldom-seen pitchers from the early 1800s - 1930s, certainly a delight for those who appreciate tea and entertaining, and Orange is a charming and scenic ladies’ day destination.

For W.H. Stark House tours and information, call 409.883.0871 or visit whstarkhouse.org.

February - March - April 2014 | www.teaintexas.com

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East TexasTexas Dallas - North

W.H. Stark House Features History & Distinguished Artworks

A FRESH LOOK ON UNIQUE TRAVEL

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