Tea In Texas July/Aug 2013

TEASHOPS

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QUILTING

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ANTIQUES

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B&B’s

UNIQUE TRAVEL FOR TEA LOVERS

Cuppa in Conroe

Philanthropy

Matters

Travel to Historic La Porte

Summer Road Trips

2012 Best Texas Gifts JULY/AUG 2013 $4.95

Historical Events | Health Briefs | Calendar

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contents

July-August 2013

Texas Welcome

look inside WHERE TO VISIT

Stephanie Miller

Editor, North Texas

Contributors: Cathy Cook Jeffrey Lorien Stephanie Miller Janet Pool Archana Pyatt Penny Ward Vogel Alcove Photo Credits: Istock.com NOHC 123rf.com

SUMMER FUN

National Advertising Coordinator: Stephanie Miller 214-534-4865

Giving Back Sarah McLachlan DALLAS SAFD Michelle Puckett HOUSTON

Lee Q. Garcia

Publisher, Editor-in-Chief

Quilting/Craft Advertising Coordinator: Michelle Lindsey 281-814-1736 To become a part of our upcoming issue, please call TEA-922-9335 or email: info@teaintexas.com

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New Orleans SHINER High Street Antiques DALLAS Chelsea’s Tea Room CONROE

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Published Bi-Monthly By: TEA IN TEXAS MEDIA, LLC 800 Wilcrest Rd., #185 Houston, Texas 77042 Sales: sales@teaintexas.com Website: teaintexas.com Phone: 832-922-9335 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 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without our written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited.

Please note that Tea in Texas Media, LLC has made reasonable efforts to verify the information with­in. 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.

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GOOD THINGS Travel Etiquette

COMMUNITY …giving back in big ways!

How is your local TEXAS shop keeper making a difference? Let’s applaud their efforts - share with us at info@teaintexas.com

Please Recycle This Magazine.

Pass It Along

Also in this Issue: Texas’ Rose-Mary Rumbley Author Marie Bostick Quilt Corner Tea Book Reviews Antique Finds For Better or For Worse Brandy Oolongs

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.

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Tea Balls + Strainers + Teabag Holders + Tea Scoops + Cookie Cutters

TEA Blessings

Available At Fine Shops

NORTH TEXAS BEATITUDES Grapevine, TX (817) 488-8850 MY OFFICE GIFT SHOP Dallas, TX (214) 221-0011 CENTRAL TEXAS PENNY’S GIFT EMPORIUM Cedar Park, TX (512) 260-0788 CHE BELLA Austin, TX (512) 671-4438 RIVER RAGS N’ RHINESTONES Leakey, TX (830) 232-4222

Texas Gift Box includes loose tea, tea ball, plate and gable box. $25

Lone Star Inspired Teas Blended Locally with Texas Herbs TEA in TEXAS 832-922-9335 • TeaBlessings.com

GULF COAST KAY’S TEA PARLOUR Katy, TX (281) 392-7970 TEAPOT DEPOT Highlands, TX (281) 426-3670 MFAH- BAYOU BEND Houston,TX (713) 639-7750 BEANS CAFE West Houston, TX (281) 920-9620 BOARDWALK FUDGE Kemah, TX (281) 538-4165

Summer Trips DallasRoad - North Texas

Escape this Summer

to destinations close by...

Tea House – Houmas House Plantation

Countless stories live within the walls and grounds of our plantations which have held watch over the Mississippi for centuries. Tours deep into the swamps will fuel the imagination and spirit for adventure. Plan your history-making adventure today and have your own stories to tell.

Oak Alley Plantation

Cajun Pride Swamp Tours

/NolaPlantations 866.204.7782 VisitNOPC.com

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New Orleans Plantation Country has a story to tell. So will you!

New Orleans Plantation Country is home to some of the most beautiful and famous plantation homes in the country, but it is their unique stories and fascinating differences that make them each worthy of a visit. When you visit any of our nine magnificent plantations, you’ll hear real stories about the people who lived here - English sugar barons, Creole women, slaves and soldiers – each with their own perspective. You’ll see artifacts, read stories and touch history – from the grand ballrooms to the impoverished slave cabins. Swamp tours, mouth-watering cuisine and a feast of festivals also weave their magic into your adventure.

English sugar barons, Creole women, slaves and soldiers Along the winding River Road between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, you’ll take an unforgettable journey. Visit slave cabins at Evergreen Plantation or Laura: A Creole Plantation where the “Tales of Br’er Rabbit” originated. See the alley of 300-year old oaks and talk to “the Colonel” about the War Between the States at Oak Alley Plantation. Houmas House Plantation and Gardens features breathtaking gardens, Latil’s Landing

Restaurant, one of the top 20 restaurants in the country, and a new tea house.

Destrehan Plantation and San Francisco Plantation provide excellent educational tours. Ormond Plantation features unique West Indies architecture, Poché Plantation is the state’s only RV resort, and St. Joseph Plantation is still a working sugar plantation.

Go from grandeur to the great outdoors with an exhilarating tour into our mysterious swamps. Knowledgeable, fearless guides will take you into the swamps to experience alligators and other wildlife.

You’ll savor world-renowned Louisiana cuisine all along the way. From momand-pop eateries to five-star dining, a delicious culinary adventure is as much of the experience as our attractions.

Wherever your journey in New Orleans Plantation Country takes you, storytellers will captivate you – and you’ll leave with your own stories to tell!

VisitNOPC.com

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Summer Road Houston - GulfTrips Coast

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Exoticism in the ďœąďœšth Century $XJXVW Ăą 7KH )UHQFK 4XDUWHU

Register today at www.hnoc.org/antiques.htm or (504) 523-4662.

PRESENTED BY

The Historic New Orleans Collection 086(80 Ăť 5(6( $5&+ &(17(5 Ăť 38%/,6+(5 ABOVE: Detail of Aladdin, Krewe of Momus Mardi Gras parade float design by Charles Briton, 1878; THNOC (1958.11.6)

Antiques Shine in New Orleans

New Orleans’ esteemed Historic New Orleans Collection turns its attention to one of its favorite subjects—ANTIQUES— August 1-4. “Opulence and Intrigue: Exoticism in the 19th Century,� is the subject of The New Orleans Antiques Forum 2013.

It will cover Carnival designs, globally inspired jewelry, Middle-Eastern and Far-Eastern inspired architecture and more.

The Historic New Orleans Collection established the New Orleans Antiques Forum in 2008 to increase cultural tourism in the area following Hurricane Katrina. The Forum also includes optional events – a preconference tour of historic homes in South Louisiana, a walking tour of the French Quarter, and a Sunday brunch at worldrenowned Antoine’s Restaurant with Forum speakers.

The Forum is centered on a series of educational talks, and encourages the appreciation of decorative arts created in and imported through the Gulf Coast, according to information from the Historic New Orleans Collection. The sessions are designed to appeal to all who are interested in antiques, from the experienced collector to the those who are just beginning to learn about antiques.

The Historic New Orleans Collection is a fascinating place to visit any time of year to learn more about New Orleans and the Gulf South’s history and culture. It is located the French Quarter at 533 Royal Street. Learn more at www.hnoc.org. photo credits: Richard Guy Wilson and HNOC

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www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

Getaway in Shiner

If you ever find yourself in the cleanest little city in Texas (that’s Shiner, y’all), you should probably take some time to tour the Spoetzl (rhymes with pretzel) brewery. Founded in 1909, is Texas’ oldest independent brewery. They still practice the art of brewing, hand-crafting each brew one at a time, and then aging each Shiner Beer naturally for no less than thirty days to guarantee its exceptionally smooth taste.

Away From ome Ho H r m u e o Y Come to Shiner to curl up by a wood burning camp fire and enjoy the stars.

HENKHAUS Country Inn 713-594-9119

The Inn, built as a weekend home, has everything you need to make your stay a memorable one.

One of Shiner’s real jewels is the Catholic Church. Blessed under the names of Saints Cyril and Methodius, two missionaries who first brought Christianity to Bohemia and Moravia, the church is truly an awe-inspiring sight. Also check out the Gaslight Theatre, Shiner’s first Opera House. Originally the setting for plays, balls, political debates, and “social hops”, today the ornate proscenium arch and vaudeville-style stage are all original. The Gaslight Theatre is known for its oustanding amateur productions.

Tour the Wolters Memorial Museum, it is an outstanding legacy of Shiner’s history. Its displays include an antique gun collection, old-time country store, dinosaur bones, embroidery and hand stitchery collections, a delightful doll display, musical instruments, an implement shed, and many other interesting antiques.

2381 County Road 293 Shiner, Texas 77984 henkhauscountryinn.com

COME VISIT MY GRANBURY. Celebrate Granbury with a fun festival, stroll through the unique shops on the historic square or simply relax in one of our many cozy B&Bs. Start planning now, the adventures in Granbury are endless!

800-950-2212

log-on to www.granburytx.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

Warriors for Christ Biker Bash Historic Square August 31 - Sept. 2

Harvest Moon Historic Square October 19 - 20

Country Christmas Night of Lights Parade Historic Square November 22

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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Summer Road Trips Dallas - North Texas

Relaxing

Dallas - North Texas

Annual Breast Cancer Awareness

Tea and

Saturday, August 24, 2013

D/FW Airport Marriott South

events calendar J

uly -August

North Texas, East Texas, Central Texas, Louisiana

July 3 – 4 Crepe Myrtle Festival and Driving Trail, Waxahachie This festival includes a concert and fireworks at the Waxahachie Sports Complex on July 3 and a parade on July 4. Waxahachie is the Crepe Myrtle Capital of Texas. You’ll love its charming historic homes and lovely downtown. www.waxahachiecvb. com.

July 3 – 6 Wimberley’s July Jubilee This four-day festival offers live music, food and drink, arts and crafts, games and fireworks followed by a cowboy dance!

Festivities include a July 4 community parade at 10 a.m., www. wimberley.org ; 512-847-2201.

July 4 KTBS 3/KPXJ CW21 Independence Day Festival, Shreveport A celebration of America’s independence featuring live country music, family-friendly entertainment and one of the region’s largest fireworks shows. 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. Festival Plaza, Downtown Shreveport,101 Crockett Street. Free admission; www.ktbs.com

$40 per PERSON Sponsorship, Underwriting and Table Hosting opportunities available. Donations for the Auctions and Raffle are gladly accepted!

PLEASE CONTACT US breastcancertea@aol.com Telephone: 817-723-3095 www.breastcancertea.org This is a fundraising event benefitting the

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S BREAST CANCER DIVISION

Donation(s) may be tax deductible. Please check with you tax advisor.

Every Tuesday, Chocolate Angel, Richardson Every Thursday, Chocolate Angel at High Street, Plano Book your seat for a fashion show featuring contemporary fashions, every Tuesday at Chocolate Angel in Richardson.

Every Thursday at Chocolate Angel’s High Street location, vintage clothing and jewelry are in the fashion spotlight. Enjoy a superb lunch while taking in fashion inspiration. Another vintage fashion show, hosted by Steven Porterfield of The Cat’s Meow in Midland, is planned for August 17. www.chocolateangel.com.

July and August Summertime Tea in Three Tiers, Into My Garden, Plano A fresh summertime tea with a choice of hot tea or a refreshing iced tea; a three-tiered tray with finger sandwiches including elegant chicken salad, cucumber with vegetable-dill spread, and almond apricot chicken salad; English scones and tea breads with strawberry preserves and Devonshire cream, and a delicious finale with strawberry lemon bars, cherry vanilla meringues, and chocolate cakelets. $18.50 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

Email:.reservations@intomygarden.com; 469-360-5821.

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.

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July 19 -20 Natchitoches/NSU Folk Festival A multicultural celebration of heritage and folk art with food, music, demonstrations, and exhibits. Prather Coliseum. 800259-1714; nsula.edu/folklife.

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!

319 S. Main street Grapevine, TX 76051

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.

140 E Exchange Ave, Ste #112, Ft Worth, TX 76164 1-877-spice-51

July 28 Lady Bird Johnson Tribute Day Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin Memorabilia belonging to Lady Bird displayed in the Visitors Gallery. The Center, originally known as the National Wildflower Research Center, was founded by Lady Bird Johnson and actress Helen Hayes in 1982 to preserve North America’s native plants and natural landscapes. 4801 La Crosse Avenue in Austin; www.wildflower.org.

August 1 – 4; August 29 – September 1 Canton’s First Monday Trade Days Explore a world of antiques, home décor, 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. 1-877-462-746 firstmonday@cantontex.com.

August 23-24 Living Proof Live Conference with Beth Moore Bossier City, Louisiana Designed to teach women to love and live on God’s Word.

Beth’s message is based on the Scripture; for women of all ages.

Century Link Center, 2000 CenturyLink Center Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. Tickets, $69, at www.lifeway.com August 24 15th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea, Fort Worth If you want to help support breast cancer awareness, you should mark your calendar for this magnificent event. Dr. Alison Laidley delivers the keynote address at the 15th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea, held at the D/FW Airport Marriott South.

It is always a spectacular event with festive hats, superb tablescapes, first-rate entertainment, and a pink carpet salute to breast cancer survivors. www.breastcancertea.org; 817-723-3095.

SHOW

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60 Antique Dealers from America & England th

September 21-22, 2013 Saturday 1 PM

Spinning and Weaving -An interactive lecture presented by Jeanne McCarthy from Caledonia Park, PA.

Sunday 1 PM

Introduction to White Ironstone

by Collector and dealer Linda T. Wilder.

antiqueeleganceshow.com

DOES Advertising WORK? It just DID! Join Tea in Texas call 832-922-9335 July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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Dallas - North Texas

July 13 Girls Night Out, Granbury Bring the girls to Granbury for Girls Night Out, where you can shop and enjoy the bargains, food and drink from merchants on the historic Square from 5:30 – 8 p.m. www.granburytx. com/calendar.

Every so often, a piece of music stops you in your tracks. The melody resonates deeply, the message speaks directly to you.

Sarah McLachlan

For many women, the music of Canadian singer and songwriter Sarah McLachlan is that kind of music, imbued with this singular power to capture shared experience and remind us that we are connected.

Uses Her Gifts to Help Those in Need

Presented with a clear, ethereal voice, her honest message covers themes we identify with – love, compassion, friendship, heartbreak, loneliness, connection. Filled with the imagery of nature, her songs are almost spiritual.

By Stephanie Miller

Sarah McLachlan gets us, and her music gets to us.

Sarah was in Dallas in April for a benefit performance for the Vogel Alcove, a group that provides education, enrichment, meals and medical care for homeless children. In an interview with Tea in Texas, she shared her thoughts on her music, and how it has compelled her to give back.

While busy writing and recording, Sarah, a mother of two young daughters, is also using her musical gifts and resources to help nurture women’s charities, children’s charities, and animals. She has created a charity of her own to help underprivileged children develop musically.

She began her charitable work 25 years ago, and today, at only 45, she has already exceeded the kind of impact that most philanthropists would hope to achieve in a lifetime.

Photos courtesy of Vogel Alcove

Helping others

Canadian Singer

Lillith Fair, the music festival that she organized in 1997, showcasing emerging female singer/songwriters, raised $7 million for charities during its run. Her television commercials for the SPCA have raised many millions in contributions to the SPCA, and much awareness for animal welfare. In 1999, she established The Sarah McLachlan Foundation, and later created the Sarah McLachlan School of Music to benefit inner-city youth.

She said it all started with a trip she took to Cambodia and Thailand in 1988, with World Vision, a relief organization that works to overcome poverty. Sarah spent 6 weeks immersed in the challenges faced by those in the developing world, and it “made a huge and lasting impact.”

“I came back with an immense sense of gratitude and awareness that the things we take for granted are luxuries,” she said. “I had an opportunity as a performer to give voice to that.”

Stephanie Miller writes about cultural events, travel and tea for Tea in Texas. Her interests include volunteer work, photography, tennis, and most of all, spending time with her family and Yellow Lab.

Sarah said she has always preferred to live simply, so when her success as a musician began to translate to wealth, she decided to “do something positive” with her resources. Music education was the clear choice.

She established the Sarah McLachlan School of Music in Vancouver, to provide group and private music lessons for kids who otherwise would not have access to music education. “Music saved my life,” she said, explaining that it was what she turned to as a teenager, when she found herself not fitting in at school.

“Music allowed me to escape, and feel that there was something special in me,” she shared. “I held on to that like a life preserver. It gives me that (affirmation) to this day.”

She wanted to provide that healing gift of music for children in need.

“To be able to express yourself and find a safe place to learn about yourself” was what music offered her, and that is what she set out to provide for the kids. “Music is very cathartic,” she notes, so it can help kids overcome challenges.

Her personal experiences cultivated a compassion that comes through in her music, and allows Sarah to establish a strong connection with her audience.“The amazing gift that music has to offer is (the realization) that someone else gets me,” she said.

“We are so disconnected as our society has moved away from group activities. Connection is what we all want. And music is where we can feel connected to humanity. It’s this amazing participatory thing.”

Described as atmospheric folkpop, Sarah’s music gained a strong following in the United States in the early 1990s, and all of her studio and live albums have been certified gold, platinum or multiplatinum. Her songs such as “I Will

Remember You,” and “Building a Mystery,” for which she won Grammys, are familiar to many. “Angel,” the song featured in her SPCA commercial, is her personal favorite and, she speculates, probably the one for which she will be remembered.

“I love it on so many levels,” she said. “It is one of those magic moments where it had little to do with me. The universe opened up and gave me this gift. There wasn’t toil or drama.”

Sarah’s performance in Dallas was the 22nd annual concert for the Vogel Alcove, and she had high praise for its support of women and children. During a flawless performance

backed by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Sarah shared the stories behind some of her songs. She shared her thoughts on giving back as she opened her song “World on Fire.”

“This song speaks to my love of philanthropy and the responsibility we all have. If we have excess, we have a responsibility to share it,” she said, to enthusiastic applause from her audience at the Meyerson Symphony Center.

The Vogel Foundation was established in 1987.

It has provided child development services for more than 13,000 homeless children in Dallas, as well as case management for their families.

Learn more at www.vogelalcove.org and www.sarahmclachlan.com.

Helping others Dallas - North Texas

Giving Back with Yellow Roses

The Society for the Advancement of Floral Design avidly creates floral arrangements for area nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other charitable events. It also sponsors scholarships for those pursuing an education in the floral industry in the Houston area.

Their volunteer members are professional florists and designers, and floral aficionados.

Since the yellow rose is SAFD’s flower of choice, the designers have chosen to feature a full design of High Exotic roses atop a lamp shade covered in yellow and white silk rose petals, resting atop a 35� tall black trumpet vase. (The chevron design is repeated in the tablecloth.) Globes of yellow sweetheart roses, glass orbs with LED lights and strands of crystals hang from the masterpiece, while a bed of pave roses fills the center box in a spectacular lively base. Yellow cloth napkins and sashes complete the table.

Designed by Pam Bates and Diana Hanley for SAFD. Photo Courtesy: C&M Photographers, Humble www.safdhouston.org

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July - August 2013

Dallas - North Texas

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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Dallas - North Texas

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 Private Parties

Bridal Luncheon

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

THE

IntoMyGarden.com

dallas tea mail The Big D Re-Gals Red Hat Society recently enjoyed a Vintage Fashion Show with afternoon tea at Chocolate Angel, reports the group’s queen, Cynthia Houck. “We loved seeing the beautiful clothes and hats.” Cynthia started the Re-Gals in 2002, with its first “dis-organization meeting,” and this lovely group of ladies from throughout the Dallas Metroplex, summarize the joy of Red Hat fellowship.

“I knew right away that I had to be part of the society. I also knew that I wanted to be queen,” Cynthia recalls, sharing that the chapter recently celebrated its 11th anniversary. “So I invited friends from different areas of my life for cake and coffee and tea at my home. Seven of us started the chapter,” and the group’s first event was an outing to the lovely Dallas Arboretum. “I hope I will be able to continue Red Hatting as long as I live,” Cynthia said.

“The Society is truly a sisterhood and so much fun.”

WORLD'S OLDEST & LARGEST FLEA MARKET ’S CANTON DAY N O M T S R FI AYS D E D A R T day h Sun y throug Thursda e first Monday before thmonth of every

August 1-4 – August 2e9r 1 Septemb

reat food spaces • G opping, including r o d n e v 0 7,00 ry sh of legenda ctibles, 450 acres art, antiques, colle s r, o m c e home dé fts and specialty it ra c , jewelry

PHONE:

877-462-7467

www.visitcantontx.com

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July - August 2013

Follow us "Canton TX Big Shopping"

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE I-PHONES AND ANDROID PHONES APPS!

Dallas - North Texas

Texas Treasure Rose-Mary Rumbley to present at the Heard Craig

When Rose-Mary Rumbley is in the House, it is always a full house: full of laughter, full of joy, full of fans. Described as a rock star of the Dallas speaker circuit, Rose-Mary, a popular lecturer and historian, does up to 600 engagements a year. She speaks to groups ranging from church groups, to businesses to women’s organizations and historical societies. Some of her favorite topics are Dallas history, theater and American history, and she delivers her presentations with the style and flair of a great entertainer.

The biggest reward for Rose-Mary, an accomplished author and actress, is getting the audience to laugh and have a good time, to be as engaged with the topic as she is.

“People want comedy,” she said. “They want to learn something and they want to come out laughing. It’s got to be funny – that is a good way to teach, with humor.” Her mission is to not only entertain but to inspire.

It’s a calling she has had since she was a child.

R o s e Mary (above left) took the stage at the tender age of 3 and never looked back. She had “expression lessons, learning to enunciate and project,” piano, and dance. She would later go on to perform in local theater and played the role of Aunt Billie in the movie “Paper Moon.” Rose-Mary has a Ph.D. in theater and was head of the Theater Department at Dallas Baptist University for 12 years.

Did you know?

The Mother Goose Nursery Rhyme “Polly put the kettle on” was published in 1797. The origin of “Polly put the kettle on” was based on the author having five children two boys and three girls. There were constant arguments as the boys wanted to play soldiers and the girls wanted to play house! When the girls wanted to play without their brothers they would pretend to start a game of tea party “Polly put the kettle on” and the daughter, called Polly, would put the toy kettle on! As soon as the brothers left Sukey (or Susan) would take it off again! Their father was so amused by this ploy that he set it to words and added the music which were subsequently published.

Polly Put the Kettle Polly put the kettle on,

Sukey take it off again,

Polly put the kettle on,

Sukey take it off again,

Polly put the kettle on,

Sukey take it off again,

We’ll all have tea.

They’ve all gone away.

At Tea in Texas, we love our Grand Texas Ladies, and RoseMary is certainly one to treasure. At the age of 80, she still delights in researching new topics, “going someplace new everyday” and sharing her stories with her audience. Her secret?

“As you get older, you realize life has been good, and you just live every moment.”

Don’t miss the chance to experience her presentation. She is the featured speaker at the Heard Craig’s Tea and Conversation in McKinney on September 18 at 2 p.m.

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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TEAtitudes.com

Grapevine

Sharing from the heart!

Celebrate the Season of Renewal with unique inspirational friendship tea gifts from Grandma Rae.

TEAvotion Gift Boxes

north texas news

The Scoop

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

Always handmade just for you!

GrandmaRae.com

Author Marie Bostwick visits with readers

Friendship Tea Bags Tea Wallets & Tea Cozies Whimsical Teapot Purses

NEW Teapot Trivets

I

magine the chance to have tea with one of the quilting world’s favorite authors.

Teapot pillow, winner of Tea in Texas’ 2011 Best Tea Product

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

Tea Room · Café · Gift Shop COME JOIN US IN OUR RELAXED, BLESSED ATMOSPHERE, JUST STEPS AWAY FROM HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN GRAPEVINE We offer a delicious menu and lovely selection of inspirational gifts, antiques, and home decor in our Charming Garden Cottage where the Love for the Lord is King!

April Cornell Linens • Tea in Texas • Camille Beckman Lotions & Creams Bangles from Heaven

A

bout 30 fans of Marie Bostwick’s work gathered at Chocolate Angel in West Plano on May 11 for a chance to visit and enjoy afternoon tea with Marie, who regaled the audience with remarks about her writing and quilting. She even showed a few examples of her quilting work. The event was organized

by Fresh Fiction.

M

arie’s most recent release, “Between Heaven and Texas” set in the fictional town of Too Much, Texas is the story of Mary Dell Templeton, who dreams of turning her love of sewing into a business. Tea in Texas reviewer Janet Pool describes it as a “heartwarming story of encouragement.”

While the setting of the book is fictional, Marie said if it were a real place, it would be in Limestone County, Texas, which is near Waco.

M New

Available for Private Parties, Showers, Birthdays & Special Luncheons

Party Room seats 30+

Lunch served Mon-Sat 11:00 to 4:00pm We also serve Afternoon and High Tea by reservation

RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED 817.488.8850 216 W Wall Street • Historic Grapevine

www.BeatitudesGifts.com

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July - August 2013

arie, author of the Cobbled Court Quilts novels, shared that, up to now, she had not had a favorite of her own books, but “Between Heaven and Texas” has quickly earned that distinction. “I’m enormously proud of this book,” she said. “Once I’m done with a book, I usually move on to the next project, but I have voluntarily read this book during the tour, and I have read it as a reader, not as me. I wouldn’t change a word of this book, and that is not usually (the case).

Maybe you’re lucky in your life to get one book that you feel that way about.”

private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, and a very special holiday high tea

Garden Tea Room and Gift Shop

-VODI TFSWFE .POEBZ o 4BUVSEBZ B N o Q N #SVODI TFSWFE .POEBZ 4BUVSEBZ B N o Q N %JOOFS PĊFSFE ɊVSTEBZ o 4BUVSEBZ Q N o Q N (PVSNFU NFOV DIBOHFT XFFLMZ (JGU TIPQ B N o Q N Chestnut Tree is a memorable tea experience, with delightful fare and artisan teas. The menu features fabulous family recipes - don’t miss the chicken salad and coconut cream pie.

Browse the gift shop for wonderful accessories and tea wares.

You can also shop online.

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8FTU )JDLPSZ 4USFFU %FOUPO 5FYBT

Experience the incomparable aromas, textures, and benefits of fine loose leaf teas.

Enjoy tea, scones and fellowship.

Part Tea Bar, Part Tea Emporium 708 North Locust Street Denton, Texas 76201 940-382-8898 www.amitea.org Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

M

arie, who quilts and writes from a home studio in Litchfield County, Connecticut, has been quilting for 25 years, She showed three wonderful examples of her work, including the beautiful orange and blue star quilt that is a companion quilt to “Between Heaven and Texas.� She said she had found exceptional quilting fabrics at several of the Texas quilt shops she visited on her book tour.

F

ans who sign up for her newsletter will receive several free companion quilt patterns that go with her books. Learn more at www.mariebostwick.com.

M

arie did book signings at several quilt shows during her tour of Texas. Favorite stops included LaGrange (home of the Texas Quilt Museum) and a town where she said she would love to live; and Kerrville.

T

o learn more about Fresh Fiction’s literary events and tea events, visit www.freshfiction.com.

Try this recipe from Marie for your next tea party!

Ambrosia Salad

1/2 cup heavy cream 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple 1 tablespoon sugar 1 cup grapes, halved 4 ounces sour cream 1 cup freshly grated coconut 3 cups mini marshmallows 1 cup toasted, chopped pecans 1 cup canned mandarin oranges 1/2 cup drained maraschino cherries Place cream and sugar in the bowl and mix with electric beater until stiff peaks form. Fold in sour cream to combine.

Add the marshmallows, oranges, pineapple, grapes, coconut, pecans and cherries and stir to combine.

Chill for 2 hours before serving.

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

17

Dallas - North Texas

The Chestnut Tree

weekend brunch, private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, weekend brunch,

Experience Tea on the Square in Denton at

Dallas - North Texas

Vintage Chic from

The Chic Cherie

Classic Vintage for the Contemporary Lady We have a complete selection of vintage from the golden age of fashion.

Shop our fine line of: t Lady's accessories t Designer Bags t Vintage jewelry t Fabulous furs t Men's Clothes and accessories

Contact Marilyn Harris and Regina Wittenberg

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

Indulge Your Senses We buy vintage clothes, jewelry, furs and accessories

T ea and Choc olate

by Margie’s Tea Service

Plano Shops:

preserving yesteryear for todays home

High Street Antiques and Design Space 052 800 North Central Expressway Plano, Texas 75074

214.808.5250

KEEP COOL SHOP ON AND

800 North Central Expressway, Plano, Texas 75074 Open Mon - Sat 10 am - 6 pm / Sun 11 am - 6 pm 972.509.7878 / highstreetantiquesdallas.com The Chocolate Angel Café & Tearoom

Antiques Glassware Furniture Vintage Fashions Artisan Silks Jewelry Oil Lamps Clocks Books and much more!

KEEP CALM HAVE DESSERT AND

Inside High Street Antiques & Design Open for Lunch Tues - Sat 11 am - 3 pm Buffet Brunch Sundays 11 am - 3 pm Afternoon Teas Tues - Sat 3:30 pm Reservations Recommended 972.904.9597 chocolateangel.com

18

www.teaintexas.com |

July - August 2013

High Street Antiques and The Chocolate Angel A Match Made in Heaven

by Stephanie Miller

High Street Antiques and Design in Plano is the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon searching for the perfect antique accent for your home, or an upto-the-moment piece of painted furniture or repurposed vintage accessory.

Chocolate Angel at High Street is the kind of place where you can gather with your girlfriends for an unhurried lunch in the tearoom’s storied ambiance, and catch a vintage fashion show or make plans to attend their special events, such as last fall’s vintage tea party.

So you could say it was a match made in heaven when High Street and Chocolate Angel got together in 2012.

Chocolate Angel, with locations in Richardson and West Plano, has its loyal followers who visit regularly for lunch, afternoon tea, Red Hat or Garden Club meetings and special events such as fashion shows. High Street has its regular customers who enjoy coming in to this expansive antique emporium to see what’s new and inspiring.

The resulting synergy of these two forces has created an exciting buzz at this ladiesday destination on Central Expressway near Plano Parkway in Plano.

Spanning 50,000 square feet, with hundreds of dealers, High Street Antiques and Design is keeping up with the times, offering fine English and French antiques, clocks, artwork, collectibles, vintage furniture, vintage clothing, quilts, trendy clothing and accessories, children’s boutique items, and gifts.

High Street Manager Jean Allred has been in the business for decades and has seen the trends develop. She explains that High Street keeps the focus on exquisite antiques, while also branching in to new categories to create a fresh mix. For example, boutiques like Tea and Chocolate, which features fine loose teas and gourmet chocolate, represent market trends.

“Twenty years ago an antique mall could have 100 percent antiques, but today it’s a different market,” she says, noting

that younger customers coming into the antiques market are bringing a taste for trendy furniture. “Painted furniture is really hot and we have got some very good dealers, and our prices are very favorable.”

A diverse range of offerings keeps customers coming back. Talented artisans and dealers who know what their customers like, keep the mall bustling.

For example, one boutique that focuses on trendy womenswear, and every time the new seasonal pieces come in, their loyal clients are sure to stop by for a preview. The repurposed vintage pieces

and painted furniture are bringing in new shoppers from around the metroplex.

And The Chic Cherie, with high-quality vintage clothing and accessories, appeals to shoppers throughout the region who are interested in fashions from the past.

Chocolate Angel’s loyal customers were delighted when this established tearoom, featuring classic Southern cooking and hospitality, opened its new venue at High Street. “The ambiance of High Street is very good. People enjoy sitting in the restaurant because they love being surrounded by beautiful things,” notes Sherrie McCall, co-owner of Chocolate Angel with her sister Marcia Clingan.

Chocolate Angel also offers Sunday brunch, with an omelet station, waffle station, salad, entrees, fabulous desserts and complimentary mimosas, and live music, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The special events are fresh and ever-changing, because Sherrie and Marcia are in touch with their customer’s tastes, and they share the interest in decorating

and entertaining. “Marcia and I try to come up with ideas that will interest our guests,” Sherrie says. “We have done murder mystery dinners, crafts events, vintage tea parties, and musical entertainment.”

A vintage style show is being offered each Thursday during lunch. On Saturday, August 17, Steven Porterfield, an expert

in vintage fashion, will be on hand to host a fabulous vintage fashion show at Chocolate Angel with The Chic Cherie.

Reserve your front row seat at 972-9049597, chocolateangel.com.

High Street is open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Reach them at 972509-7878, highstreetantiquesdallas.com.

Quilt Corner Dallas - North Texas

Explore A Fascinating World of Textile Art in College Station Be inspired in your creative journey with a visit to the Arts Council of Brazos Valley’s amazing exhibit “Fiber Arts: All Things Fiber,” featuring the works of talented artists ranging from cutting-edge quilts, to hand-weaving, to fabulous frocks and even sculpted pieces.

“Visitors will enjoy seeing how the artists have combined these time-honored techniques with contemporary concepts to create unique pieces of art. The works are created with incredible attention to details and great skill,” The Arts Council said. Aggieland Rug Artists, the Brazos Valley Knitting Guild, Brazos Bluebonnet Quilt Guild, Brazos Spinner & Weavers, Brazos Valley Stitchers and Brazos Valley Wearable Arts are among the groups represented among the 35 artists in the show.

The Quilt Guild of Greater Houston

2013 Quilt Show

Quilts! Shopping! Food! Quilt Appraisals!

Friday July 12 : 10 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, July 13: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Live Auction: starts at 4:00 p.m. on July 13

Stafford Centre (it’s closer than 10505 Cash Road you think) Stafford, Texas

Tickets: $7 per day/ $10 for a two day pass Contact the show for group (20 or more) discounts

Get out of the heat and see beautiful quilts from one of Houston’s . oldest quilt guilds QGGHouston.org

qggh2013show@gmail.com

Golden Needles Quilt Guild presents Galaxy of Stars

The exhibit is free and runs from June 13 – July 31 at The Arts Council, which is located at 2275 Dartmouth Street in College Station. Hours are Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.

– 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Quilt Show & Live Auction Sept. 20-21, 2013 Fri & Sat 10am - 5pm Artist in Residence: Patti Nethery-Starr featuring her Ruler Revolution(r) System & Classes

June 13 - July 31

Quilt Appraisals by Sharron K. Evans "Circle Of Stars" (Judy Martin's quilt "Capistrano" in her book "Stellar Quilts" used with permission)

2275 Dartmouth St. College Station www.acbv.org 979 696-2787

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www.teaintexas.com |

July - August 2013

Lone Star Convention Center 9055 Airport Rd Conroe, TX 77303 www.goldenneedles.org

Admission $7 Seniors $5

Through July 31 The Arts Council of Brazos Valley’s Fiber Arts: All Things Fiber, College Station Explore compelling fiber art works of the many talented Brazos Valley artists in this free exhibit showcasing a fascinating variety of fiber arts media – from hand weaving to quilting and even sculpting. The Arts Council is located at 2275 Dartmouth Street in College Station. For more information visit acbv.org or call (979) 696-2787.

Every Friday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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: second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.

Groups: book a tour with tea in a historic home! 972-5628790; www.chestnutsquare.org.

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Opelousas Farmers Market, Louisiana Find homegrown produce, preserves, jellies, arts and crafts, 828 East Landry Street. It begins at 6:30 a.m. 337-948-0561, 800-424-5442, www.cityofopelousas.com July 1 – 31 Hutchinson Cty 32nd Annual Quilt Show, Borger This exhibit is free, and while here you can also enjoy the museum, which highlights the history of this area in the Texas Panhandle. Museum hours are Tues-Fri 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. – 4:30. Learn more about the Quilt Show and scheduled speakers at www.HutchinsonCountyMuseum.org.

July 12-13 Gone to Pieces in Houston The Quilt Guild of Greater Houston will be hosting the 2013 Gone to Pieces Quilt Show at The Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road in Stafford,TX For more info about entering a quilt, visit www.qgghouston.org. The challenge for the “theme quilts” entered are defined by the theme the creator seems fit. Vendors, auctions, demos and more. More info and group discounts at qggh2013show@gmail.com July 12 and 13 Wildflower Quilt Guild Show, Temple “Christmas in July” will be a festive, judged show with more than 160 quilts,m vednors, scissor sharpening, raffle quilt, country store, bed turning, silent auction and block challenge.

Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Frank Mayborn Convention Center. www.wildflowerquiltguild. com.

Save the Date: Sept 20-21 Galaxy of Stars Quilt Show, Conroe Annual Quilt Show at the Lone Star Convention Center in Conroe, TX It is a judged show and will have an outstanding collection of quilts made by members and ribbons will be awarded in several categories. Along with this show, on Saturday Afternoon, a Live Auction will be held, the proceeds of which will go to help support our many charities and scholarships. $7. www.goldenneedles.org The Guild is 26 year old, started by 6 ladies, and has grown to over 200 members, who support the art of quilting, each other and the surrounding community. Join them monthly on the 3rd Thursday night at the Bible Church on I45 at 830 exit. 6:30 pm October 17 – 19 Original Sewing & Quilting Expo Comes to Fort Worth The Original Sewing & Quilting Expo comes to Texas! It will be held at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, packed with three exciting days of workshops, classes, quilts on display, special events, how-to demonstrations, trunk shows and fabulous shopping with sewing and quilting retailers from across the country.

3 Days Just for You! Shopping • Workshops • Quilt Displays

October 17, 18 & 19, 2013 Will Rogers Memorial Center • Fort Worth, TX

sewingexpo.com 800-699-6309

Quilt: “Rhapsody in Red” by Trudy Wasson www.generations-quilt-patterns.com

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

23

Quilt Corner Dallas - North Texas

Quilt & Craft Calendar

July 13 Krotz Springs Quilters’ Guild, Central Louisiana, Quilt Show nnual Quilt Show and Sale features a beautiful display of quilts and needlework demonstrations, silent auction and boutique. Vote on the Sue Bonnet Sue Challenge. Show runs from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is free, 324 S. Levee Road, Krotz Springs. Call 337-592-0354.

Houston - Gulf Coast

events calendar J

uly -August

Houston, Central Texas and Gulf Coast

June 22- July 7 Emerging Clay Artists Show, Houston CAMEO will present the 6th Annual CAMEO Emerging Artists Show, an amazing exhibit of university and college professors and their emerging students who show exceptional talent in clay work. Invited instructors submit one work and invite 2 students who may submit two unique pieces each.

18 Hands Gallery, 249 W 19th Street, Houston Heights 713-869-3099 / 18handsgallery.com / cameohouston.org July 4- 4th of July Celebration at Bayou Bend , Houston Celebrate Independence Day at Houston’s home for American decorative arts and paintings. A reading of the Declaration of Independence, followed by birthday cake, starts at about 3 p.m. on the Diana Terrace (north side) of the house.

July 4 Kemah’s Fourth of July Celebration On July 4th patriotism will fill the air in Kemah, Texas. Mayor Bob Cummins invites all to come to the parade and enjoy the fun! Veterans will participate in the morning parade and all are welcome to continue the celebration with hot dog and drinks donated by T Bone Tom’s at the Jimmie T. Walker Community Center.

STAY IN THE KNOW Sign up for our newsletter BE LOCAL

24

TeainTexas.com

www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

July 13 The Jersey Village Baptist Church Ladies Black & White Luncheon Watercolor artist, national speaker and writer Debbie Hannah Skinner will combine biblical teaching with colorful, original paintings that come to life on stage. Through words and images, Debbie encourages women to express creativity in new ways, even those who don’t consider themselves to be artists; savor Scripture to soothe a busy mind; apply biblical truth to strengthen their personal and professional lives; and rekindle little-girl creativity with big-girl purpose. Catered by Bello Cibo, and tickets are available online at jvbc.org for $12.

July 14 Royal Baby Shower Old Town Spring Crossroads Collection Tea Room cordially invites you to celebrate the birth of the newest prince or princess.

2:00-4:00 pm Please bring a gift

AUGUST 14-15 Commemoration Of The Battle On The Nueces River The Comfort Heritage Foundation will commemorate the Battle on the Nueces River. This Civil War battle is an important part of the history of German settlers in Texas, reflecting their steadfast loyalty to the Union. Events include a folk opera, memorial program, German lunch and battlefield video, and symposium. All are open to the public.

ComfortHeritageFoundation@gmail.com Save the date: Calvert Fall Fest October 18 – 20, The Harvest Ball is a nominal $50.00 per person including dinner, and the English Afternoon Tea is $35.00 per person.

There will be reservation forms available at www.CalvertTx. com or call (512) 468-8317 to get forms mailed to you. Return the completed form with payment to the Calvert Chamber of Commerce at PO Box 132, Calvert, TX 77837. Calvert is located in the heart of Texas between Dallas, Houston, and Austin and is 30 miles north of Bryan-College Station. For information or lodging: visit www.CalvertTx.com, contact VictorianCalvert@gmail.com, or call (512) 468-8317.

Call and let us book your tea party in style.

Tues-Sat 11-4 & Sun 12-4

281-528-6550

123 Midway Old Town Spring, TX 77373 rth al even

speci

t

August 14 The 7th Annual Austin Ice Cream Festival Bring yourself, your friends, your family and even your dog to the 6th Annual Austin Ice Cream Festival and come scream with us. This event will include lots of games, activities, contests and live entertainment as well as what we all scream for ICE CREAM! See the ICE CREAM TRUCK!!!

Downtown Austin. icecreamfestival.org

te a We can help you celebra

August 9-10 Navasota Blues Festival Originally held as a benefit to establish a scholarship fund in the memory of late Navasota blues musician Mance Lipscomb, the Navasota Blues Fest has been a mainstay in Grimes County for more than a decade. Since it was first held in 1996, the Navasota Blues Fest has grown to include two days of music, food, family entertainment and fund raising for the Mance Lipscomb Scholarship Fund. navasotabluesfest.org

CrossroadsCollection.com

Bi

Sh owers, Bridal Showers

Lunch ¡ Afternoon Tea Freshly Baked Scones Desserts

July 20, August 17 & Sept 21 Summertime Tea Prairie Street Heritage House, Columbus Every third Saturday of the month, explore historic Columbus and stop in for teatime. A summertime treat with a choice of hot teas; a three-tiered tray with finger sandwiches including; fabulous savories, English scones with preserves and cream, and a delicious finale of sweets.

Reserve at prairieteatime@att. net; 979-732-5555.

days , Ba b y

4x6 PROMO POSTCARDS 5000 Glossy ALVIN ONLY $199 Open for Lu Tuesday thr nch u Saturday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Printed in 24 hours in HOUSTON

Located inside th e 55 ANTIQ UE CEN .000 sq. foot TER MAL 2500 S. By pass 35 L , Alvin, Te

xas 7751

1

Next Day Print.

Local Delivery.

SPEND LESS. PRINT MORE. PRINT LOCAL.

FULL COLOR BOTH SIDES

BEATS VISTAPRINT PRICES

Call TEA in TEXAS

832-922-9335 July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

25

Houston - Gulf Coast

Home of Old Town Spice Tea

of new baby clothes or other new items that will be donated to the clients of The Gabriel Project. RSVP 281-528-6550

Book-Reviews Houston Gulf Coast

s k o o B a Te Reviews by Janet Pool

TEA CELEBRATIONS: Special Occasions for Afternoon Tea (From TEATIME MAGAZINE)

Tomball TEA ROOM 107 CommerDF t Tomball, TX 77375 Located in the Relics by the Railroad Center

We Offer: Take Out Orders Whole Desserts Reservations Accepted Room Rental Special Events

Open Monday-Saturday 11:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.

281-255-2455 281-255-2453 fax

www.thewhistlestoptearoom.com

Magnolia

4PVQT t 4BMBET t 4BOEXJDIFT t 2VJDIFT

N NEW LOCATIO Now Open in Magnolia, TX 311 Magnolia Blvd (FM 1774)

281-255-4TEA (4832) magnoliatreehouseoftea@yahoo.com

26

www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

Summer afternoon teatimes provide the perfect opportunity to “slow down and savor some of the best things in life – relationships, food, and tea.” If your vacation plans include time for reconnecting “with friends and family in ways that are deeper, more personal, and certainly more memorable than quick electronic exchanges…” you will appreciate a recent publication by the publishers of TEATIME MAGAZINE. TEA CELEBRATIONS: Special Occasions for Afternoon Tea featuring the magazines trademark charm is sure to become one of your favorite references for tea parties.

While TEA CELEBRATIONS features menus for the specific occasions of New Year’s Day, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, Birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, they will, of course, adapt well to any tea event. Aspiring hostesses will find inspiration in the artfully photographed elegant themed table settings combined with delectable recipes. Blueberry-Basil Scones, Italian Chicken & Pasta Salad, Sweet Currant & Cranberry Tea Sandwiches, Creamy Sweet Potato Soup, and Chocolate-Toffee Layer Cakes are just of few of the featured recipes. With the helpful inclusion of a tea steeping guide along with suggested tea pairings, TEA CELEBRATIONS will ensure “ a beautiful and flavorful afternoon tea that will allow you and your guests to savor memorable moments together.”

FOR THE LOVE OF TEA

by Leigh Michaels Mention the name Leigh Michaels and your thoughts will likely turn to love and romance novels. However, tea lovers will be delighted to learn that this award winning author also

Book -Reviews Houston Gulf Coast

shares our passion for tea parties.

This delightful book entitled FOR THE LOVE OF TEA offers creative ideas for eleven themed teas. Readers will be inspired by Michaels “Formal Tea Reception,” “Death-by-Chocolate Tea,” “Have Tea Will Travel,” “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” and “Happy Hour Tea.” With over 50 recipes, including Scones with Clotted Cream, Sour Cream Teacakes, variations on Cucumber Sandwiches, BaconCheese Bites, Murder-By-Chocolate Cake, and Decadent Truffles, readers are sure to find the perfect menu for their summer entertaining.

In addition to beautifully photographed presentation ideas, Michaels thoughtfully includes an informative, concise history of tea. FOR THE LOVE OF TEA will be a welcome addition to your tea library, and readers will surely agree that “whether it’s a casual cup with a friend or an elegant afternoon affair, tea is a fun and flexible way to entertain.”

THE TEA PLANTER’S DAUGHTER

by Janet MacLeod Trotter If you are looking for a refreshing, can’t-put-itdown-until-the-end, summer read, THE TEA PLANTER’S DAUGHTER by Janet MacLeod Trotter, might be your ‘cup of tea.’ “Set in the fascinating world of the Edwardian tea trade,” this is a “wonderfully moving story of courage and enduring love…”

Clarissa Belhaven enjoys a carefree lifestyle with her younger sister Olive and their father on his beloved tea plantation until his sudden death. Because of his debts, the orphaned sisters are forced to move to Newcastle, England where living conditions with their father’s cousin and his wife are harsh. Clarissa “dreams of opening her own tea room, which could be a safe haven for local women.” When she accepts the offer of a housekeeping job for “kindly lawyer Herbert Stock” and his wife Louisa, Clarissa and Olive find their lives forever changed.

The many facets and depth of our “warm-hearted heroine’s” character are revealed in her endurance through many trials. Readers will cheer her on as she perseveres to provide for Olive, lovingly cares for Louisa, nurtures a devoted friendship with Will, encourages Herbert with her faithfulness, and achieves her goal of opening a tea room. Intrigue and suspense continue to build when “Wesley Robson comes back into Clarrie’s life, bringing with him a shocking revelation…”

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

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

27

Helping others Houston - Gulf Coast

Emerging Beauty Michelle Puckett is a vision of survival and success. She has overcome many obstacles and turned those life lessons into an inspiration for others in Houston. She owns an upscale consignment and resale shop ( at Westheimer Rd and Sam Houston Tollway) featuring designer clothing, elegant housewares, world art, heirloom jewelry and furniture.

A portion of sales and donated items benefits Blooming Butterflies, her non-profit which serves battered women and disadvantaged seniors.

A low point in Michelle’s life was the inspiration for Blooming Butterflies. While in need of income herself, Michelle was walking along and found butterflies on the ground. When she picked them up, she saw they were part of a plant (The brown leaves of the Mexican butterfly plant that looked like real butterflies). She varnished them, attached magnets and started selling them to local stores and salons.

Antiques

TEXAS

Finds &Treasures

Ribbon and Roses Ceramic Serving Ware 100+ pieces includes unique items such as a water urn, flour caddie, demitasse cups, tea service, coasters and flower vase.

This one-of-a-kind collection was hand-painted by Texas Artist Joan Latham for a private collector. Available at Designer Exchange, Houston 713-782-1780 $3000

Michelle had a secure life, then hard times came with a divorce. She says her life went “from like driving a Mercedes to driving a beat up old car that barely ran.” She had to support a son, who sustained terrible injuries in a motorcycle accident, and had to go to work for others in the business world.

Michelle was determined she would not work for anyone else. When her finances improved, Michelle recalled her times of need and established the Designer Exchange resale shop in conjunction with Blooming Butterflies.

Now, Michelle says she has the best of both worlds, “I know I’ll never get rich, but there is satisfaction in helping other people. They are grateful and they know my heart is sincere.”

Client assistance covers many areas including clothing, financial and educational. Interview skills and self-esteem training are included, and computer training is planned for the future. Michelle is also there for her clients when they just need someone to listen. Her phone is always with her, and she receives calls for help at all hours of the day and night.

Michelle’s concern for others and for the environment includes the endangered monarch butterfly. She is growing colorful red and yellow Mexican butterfly weed to provide food for the monarchs she raises at her west Houston home, and she encourages and teaches others to do the same.

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www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

Ribbon and Roses “If this is coffee, please bring me some tea; but if this is tea, please bring me some coffee.”

—Abraham Lincoln

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

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!

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

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

112 Denny Street, Highlands, TX 77562

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

TeapotDepotGreatFood.com

F�ee

cup of soup

with purchase of any sandwich

Cannot be combined with any other offer, one 9/1/13 coupon per customer. Expires 9/7/12

F�ee

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 9/1/13 9/7/12

Silver-plated teapot with fluted vertical bands on the body, finished with a heat insulating black handle. Holds about five cups of your favorite teas.

Item 45670 - $58.95

Tea for Two, Inc. Your source of quality tea accessories since 1997 teafortwo.com | sales@teafortwo.com Toll Free (888) 601-9990

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

29

Tea Etiquette

I have several graduations, weddings, and other events coming up that I will need to travel to. Do you have any travel etiquette tips?

Yes! Plan to be a polite traveler by making common courtesy, decent behavior, and good manners your travel companions.

I think that one of the most important ways to do this is to plan ahead. If you are prepared, you are less likely to be frustrated, and less likely to annoy other travelers.

Tea & Etiquette

By Penny Ward

Air travel these days requires the utmost planning and patience! Consult your airline’s website along with the Transportation Security Administration’s (www.tsa.gov) website before your trip for information on what you can and cannot bring. Then, follow the rules. This will save you and other travelers time and annoyance. The rules are there for your safety and comfort.

The most common areas of complaint I hear pertain to baggage and personal space. Here are a few tips to help your trip go smoother.

1) Check large bags. Don’t try to bring on a bag that does not comply with the airline’s size requirements for carry-on baggage. I’ve seen people struggling to bring on bags large enough to fit a small person in! It won’t fit in the overhead or under your seat, and will ultimately cause delays.

2) Make sure that all items in your carry-on are in compliance with the rules. If they aren’t, it will not only delay you at the security check-in, but will delay everyone in line behind you.

3) Carry-on baggage should be stowed in the overhead above your own assigned seat. Do not place your bag in the overhead above the seats in the seventh row if you are seated in row eighteen. That space belongs to the individuals seated in row seven. This brings us to the next point.

4) Respect the personal space of others. Don’t take up more than your allotted area with your body or possessions. Don’t recline your seat unless you absolutely must. And, if you do, you should probably ask the passenger behind you if he minds having your head in his lap for the duration of the flight. This

30

www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

is going to severely restrict his ability to use his seat tray or move about. Don’t play music or video games too loudly, or show offensive pictures on your electronic device.

Weddings * Receptions * Special Events * Teas Luncheons * Corporate Functions

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

Don’t bring food with extremely strong odors on the plane. I once had the person next to me complain that my elbow brushed her arm, yet had no problem with offending me with the odor of her boxed chicken dinner for the entire two-hour flight! And while we are discussing odors, practice good hygiene, and lighten up on the perfume and aftershave.

5) Leave the lavatory in good condition. Don’t forget to flush and dispose of paper towels.

6) And finally, don’t complain. If you have a legitimate complaint, speak to the individual who has the authority to do something about it. Don’t just complain in general.

Mimi” Burke invites you to visit

Gayle “

Antiques Collectibles Gifts Home Decor Vintage

on Main CONROE

Remember to show dignity, respect, and kindness to everyone with whom you come in contact. Be generous with your “please” and “thank you”. Good manners can make all the difference in the enjoyment of your trip. Don’t leave home without them! Happy travels!

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.

An Antique Mall and More!

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

936-441-0002

EXTRA INCOME Sales Coordinator Needed TEA inTEXAS

now hiring in North Houston: Woodlands/Tomball Area

832.922.9335

Contact us for more details

REQUIRES TRAVEL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE WORK FROM HOME CALL NOW! July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

31

Conroe Houston - Gulf Coast

Welcome to Conroe

The Most Unique Parties at

CHELSEA’S TEA ROOM Sometimes sitting for tea is not as important as just sitting, taking a reprieve from our lives to sit with a special someone and have fun. Sometimes tea is just a bonus. This is how Cathy Cook envisioned this dynamic space inside her thriving art gallery.

The historic lake town of Conroe offers visitors a variety of experiences, both old and new. Located just 30 miles north of Houston, the area combines history, contemporary shopping and leisure activities. Enjoy a relaxing short break or day out, exploring the antique shops, pubs and general stores on historic Main Street (just east of I-45 off Hwy 105) and plan a tea party for your friends.

TT: Hi Cathy, your tea room is delightful, what inspired you?

CC: I opened 2 years ago, not to be open every day but to have tea parties, showers, dinners… dedicated parties… an exclusive place with food of the guests choosing, where they can stay as long as they like. I wanted a tea room downtown because tea rooms are always inviting.

Chelsea’s Tea Room seats 65 people, hosting many bridal showers in the spring. Bridal season (March-June) is very busy, with baby showers added in. Private Christmas parties during the holidays are fun, we book up very fast in December.

TT: What makes downtown Conroe special?

CC: We are a few doors down from the Creighton Theatre, a restored vaudville theater built in 1934. They offer popular

amateur productions on Main Street which we support. We’ll stay open late and sample complementary wine during performance nights. Since we are a Thomas Kinkade signature silver dealer, patrons stop in to view the latest collections. The gallery houses many artists including Larry Dyke and G. Harvey, as well as many local talented artists that share their work with us.

TT: How long have you called Conroe home?

CC: I am from Beaumont and was in school in Dallas in the 80’s. I was just passing through to visit my sister and her husband and it has been my home ever since.

I was driving through downtown one day to pay my water bill and I saw a FOR RENT sign on this corner building. I thought to myself “That is going to be my gallery some day.” I always think if God opens a door, go through it. If it is not meant to be, tear it down. AND IT WAS WIDE OPEN! Everything I was planning to do was wide open for me. I had always dreamed of having a gallery, it opened in 2009.

TT: Chelsea’s has tablecloths and decor for any themed party. Is there a special party that you have enjoyed lately?

CC: I love when ladies come in for bridge. They come in- I pour their tea, lemonade or whatever they are drinking and they play for a while. Then I serve lunch and they play for a couple more hours. You hear the laughter with these gals… the comradery I guess… they do have a lot of fun.

TT: Are little girls invited to tea?

CC: Of course, we love our adorable little princesses. Last year we designed a full-size wooden carriage decorated with tulle inside the tea room for a charming tea party celebration with 50 girls. After a theater performance, dressed-up princesses came over, I served blueberry tea from the carriage and they were thrilled. The children were well behaved, using their best manners and did not touch a single art piece.

TT: What menus are offered?

CC: Although we offer mostly traditional tea fare on tiered trays, hosts can request private catering for their events. We had a large rehearsal dinner a few months ago seating 62 guests where the host wanted to cater from an Italian restaurant in town, so we did that. There was a room fee and decoration services for them, they had a great party.

TT: Is your afternoon tea package all-inclusive?

CC: It sure is. Tea parties are $12-15 per person. We will provide all tea sandwiches, scones and desserts. Decorations, linens, silverware, set-up and tea is included. Since they are in a private space, there is no restaurant noise or other folks interrupting the function. If there is a theme, I will create a new tablecloth to match- it’s the little details that make the day special. The best part is that they can party for as long as they want.

TT: How should guests prepare for their next party?

CC: I tell everyone, “Just bring your gifts and your friends, I’ll take care of the rest.” I am blessed with what I do- I am never leaving Conroe, there is everything you could want here. In July, we will hosting an awesome ALL-GIRLS art show in the tea room. Call us for details at (936) 539-2993 or catcook5@yahoo.com.

Alvin --Galveston Houston Gulf Coast

Annie's Tea Room & Cafe

Located Inside Alvin Antique Center

JUST OUT OF CURIOSITEA...

By Archana Pyatt

Nothing is better than… … starting and ending your day with a cup of tea and biscuits. Really, there isn’t!

Tuesday - Saturday Lunch 11 am - 3 pm Sunday Tea & Desserts 12 pm - 3 pm Special Events Private Parties, Birthdays, Weddings, Showers, Meetings, Children's and Adult Tea's

Stop in Alvin for Tea & Antiques

2500 South Loop 35 Alvin, TX 77511 Ph: 281-585-6877 www.anniestearoom.com

The

Bed & Breakfast & Ballroom

WWW.LASKERINN.COM

Exquisite c.1870 Historic Island Venue

1019 16th Street Galveston Island, Texas 77550

Specializing In Weddings, Receptions, Reunions and Events

Incomparable 409-497-4318

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Exquisite

409-939-5563

Lavish info@laskerinn.com

www.teaintexas.com | July - August 2013

Nothing is worse than… … someone insisting on adding milk in their green or herbal tea. If you insist on milk with your tea, order a heavybodied black tea such as an Assam.

Nothing is better than… … having a cup of tea and quiet time alone in a serene environment!

Sometimes you are your own best company.

Nothing is better than… …watching a family of well mannered-parents enjoying a spot of tea with their well-mannered children.

Start a tradition with your little girls as well as with your little boys. The time spent together is priceless and the lessons learned are invaluable.

Nothing is worse than… …hearing someone say “chai tea” since chai means tea.

Please, just ask for chai.

Archana Pyatt is a true tea enthusiast. Her passion for tea has served as a platform for writing, traveling and finally opening her own tea room. Serenitea Tea Room, located in Sugarland, TX is not only a place for lunch and Afternoon Tea but also a venue to share the knowledge of tea and all things related.

Friendswood - Kemah Houston - Gulf Coast

Nothing is worse than… …people referring to the Afternoon Tea as “high tea” and holding out their pinkies when they drink their tea. Neither is correct.

Nothing is better than… …a perfect gentleman who came into a tea room with his better half who had insisted… he obliged… he actually enjoyed the experience… And they lived happily ever after.

Forever!

Bed & Breakfasts

Blue Bay Vacation Rentals Clipper House Brass Lantern Edgewater Inn Captain's Quarters Kemah Gardens Kemah Retreat Seaside Inn

Perfect Accomodations for your Next Visit!

Hotels Palace Inn Boardwalk Inn Holiday Inn Express Kemah Escape Passport Inn Super 8

877.77KEMAH (877.775.3624)

July Events

July 4th

Annual 4th of July parade

Upcoming

Fall Events Sept 13th- 15th Kemah Greek Food Oct 4th – 6th

and Wine Fest Oktoberfest

www.visitkemahtx.com July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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Central Texas

Tea Treasures from Taiwan

By Jeffrey Lorien

Welcome back! This issue we are looking at Baked Oolongs, sometimes called Roasted Oolongs. Baked oolongs are a fantastic way to experience the wonder and flavor of oolong tea. The baking produces a rich, deep flavor that not only enhances the floral and fruit notes of a fine oolong but provides a nutty, toasty taste that is unmistakable.

The baking process takes place at varying temperatures and varying times to produce a tea that is particular to the tea master’s style. The process can take several hours to up to several days. One interesting, and little known fact, that occurs during this process is that the vast majority of caffeine is baked right out of the leaves! I have seen firsthand the stalagmites hanging from the ceilings in baking rooms. Pure caffeine!

So this is a great oolong for those who seek a low caffeine tea with a full, complex flavor. Some great baked oolongs you may be familiar with are the Royal Courtesan (gui fei), Ti Quan Yin, and Tung Ting; all known for their depth of flavor and ability to hold up well to multiple steepings.

Have afternoon tea at Enchanted Lake, surrounded by beautiful country scenery.

A fabulous gourmet dinner at Carol’s at Cat Spring is just down the road... then spend the evening gazing at stars before turning in to your choice of turn-of-the-century Texas Homes.

Come stay with us & you’ll understand why we call this magical place BlissWood.

Featured in Southern Living, May ‘07

2004 & 2007 Grand Champion Restaurant, Houston Rodeo Uncorked Best Bites

www.BlissWood.net 713-301-3235 13300 Lehmann Legacy Lane, Cat Spring,Texas

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www.teaintexas.com |

July - August 2013

Until now, all the baking has been done in Taiwan under the supervision or directly by the tea master himself. Only recently, a very small handful of ambitious oolong die-hards have undertaken the task of baking oolongs here in the U.S. Solid training is necessary to do this properly, along with much trial and error! The advantage of this is the ability to create custom batches of tea, much like a custom roaster of coffee in your home town.

The time and attention that goes into making oolong teas is quite impressive. We are all grateful to the Taiwan tradition of care and creativity in giving us some of the most remarkable teas on the planet.

Central Texas

Another advantage of baking is to revitalize teas which may be going a bit stale. A low temperature for a couple of hours will begin to remove moisture that has accumulated, and properly done can make an “old” tea better than new! A real tea baking oven is required and some skill and dedication to baking tea, but the results can be outstanding. Yours truly has been baking teas for some time now and will be releasing some custom baked teas later this year!

Jeffrey Lorien is a tea enthusiast, world traveler, and founder of Austin’s own Zhi Tea. Jeffrey has a lifelong dedication to organic agriculture and is passionate about helping to elevate the American tea culture one cup at a time.

It’s all about having fun!

This year’s Calvert Fall Fest, scheduled for October 18-20 promises to be one incredible weekend that kicks off with an IBCA sanctioned BBQ cookoff on Friday evening, continues on Saturday with a parade, family friendly games and activities, the cookoff judging, Children’s Art activities, monthly Trade Days, and free live entertainment by the Full House Blues Band Saturday afternoon.

Saturday evening is crowned by The Harvest Ball, a celebration of the bountiful harvest of fall with great music, dancing, fabulous Southern cuisine, door prizes, and a fun auction! Suggested dress for The Harvest Ball is mid- to late 1800s or evening attire. For more details call Jan Walston, Chairperson, at (713)252-9433 or capt1836@aol.com. $50 includes dinner.

The 13th Annual Calvert Garden Tea will be held Sunday afternoon on the lawn of the fabulous Calvert Inn, the historic Gibson-Hudson home (outdoors weather permitting). We will once again have our Hat Contest, live music, door prizes, and, as always, lots and lots of fun! Contact Sandy Hudson- Chairperson, at (979) 492-3302 or stay@calvertinn.com. $35 for tea service.

Visit www.CalvertTx.com or call (512) 468-8317 to get forms mailed to you.

Calvert is located in the heart of Texas between Dallas, Houston, and Austin and is 30 miles north of Bryan-College Station.

July - August 2013 | www.teaintexas.com

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Austin Area Sales Coordinator Needed!

Interested in promoting tea and making friends?

Share our tea madness?

Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room

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

TEA inTEXAS Media

is looking for Experienced Sales Persons in Central Texas Send your resume to editor@teaintexas.com

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

Reservations required 979-732-5555

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Central Texas

Prairie Street Heritage House

A FRESH LOOK ON UNIQUE TRAVEL

teaintexas.com

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$19.95 + Lunch for Seniors (min 20) $39.95 + Lunch for Groups (min 8) Transportation not included

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