Texas TEA & TRAVEL Winter 2015

DECEMBER 4, 5 & 6 - DICKENSONTHESTRAND.ORG GALVESTON’S WORLD FAMOUS VICTORIAN HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OFFICIAL SPONSORS ™

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CHEERS TO 2016

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Texas Welcome

letter from the

The Romance of a House

editor Charlottesville, Virginia. This architectural feat is a testament to the genius of its proud architect and original owner, Thomas Jefferson, and his amazing eye for beauty.

I remember so clearly standing in that light-filled entry hall, then seeing those stairs. It was there that I became a House Person, surrounded by the embodiment of Southern elegance in the form of this exquisite structure.

“Architecture is my Delight” --Thomas Jefferson For almost as long as I can remember, I have been a House Person, taken in by the mystery and the charms of a classic or historic home.

What’s behind those windows? Who lives within those walls? What triumphs and tragedies has that stately old home witnessed over the years?

When I was four, my parents bought a classic, white clapboard Acadian style house in Louisiana, with a big front porch. I remember the day we toured it, turning the corner inside the house and coming to the intriguing stairs, which were bordered by full walls with no railings. Beguiled and a little fearful of what we might find at the top, I stood there gazing at the steps and wondering what they promised. In the years we lived there I rarely recall going to the top of the stairs or being in the finished attic that awaited there.

But ever since then, I remember being smitten by the romance of a house.

When I was six, my parents took me to see the gracious and enchanting Monticello in

A home can capture beauty, symbolize our hopes for the future as we begin a family or start a new chapter in our lives, and tug on our heartstrings to return to the warmth of the hearth and the company of loved ones.

These are the reasons why it is always such a joy to share the Historic Homes issue of Texas Tea & Travel with you, our readers.

Walk with us again this year on a journey through our area’s fine old homes, all dressed for the season of home tours. Let’s revel in the stories these lovely houses have to tell.

Stephanie

Stephanie Miller North Texas Editor

MODERN TEA TRAVELERS REJOICE!

There's never been a more exciting time 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 antique clocks and vintage lace? Excited to find an artisan festival in town? Yep- you are the modern tea traveler, and we're so excited to be a part of your passion.

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ON THE COVER

Every home deserves an antique piece from Texas' antiquing meccas. This rocking horse vignette was captured by photographer and stylist Carol Spinski on her recent trip to Laurie Anna's Vintage Home in Canton, Texas. Visit carolspinski.com

CHECK IT OUT

Find bonus content from each issue plus much more on texasTtravel.com Find archived issues, event calendars, tea maps, and loads of travel tips.

SUBSCRIBE NOW at texasTtravel.com

10878 Westheimer Rd #115

Heard-Craig Center for the Arts Celebrate the Season with the Heard-Craig for the Arts HOLIDAY TEA &Center CONVERSATION Enjoy a holiday program and afternoon tea in the historic Heard-Craig Home in downtown McKinney, Texas.

December 9, 2015 at 2 pm

HOLIDAY TEA & CONVERSATION December 9, 2015 at 2 pm The Heard-Craig Center for the Arts is a historic home built in 1900, located in historic downtown McKinney. Its mission is to continue Kathryn Heard Craig's vision to foster the arts, extend meeting privileges to historic and education groups, and preserve the Heard family and regional Texas history through its collections and property. The House is open for tours of the 7,000 square foot home that houses an extensive collection of art including Texas regional artists such as some of the members of the 1930s Dallas Nine. Rotating exhibits of the Heard-Craig’s extensive collection of textiles, quilts, artwork, china, and furniture, always impress visitors. The holiday tea will include a conversation on various topics followed by a delightful tea service inside the historical home. The holiday season is a perfect time to visit the Heard-Craig, as the December tea and tour times are some of the most popular times to visit when the house is decked in full holiday cheer.

Enjoy a holiday program and afternoon tea in the historic Heard-Craig Home in downtown McKinney, Texas.

For reservations please contact us online at www.heardcraig.org Let us host a luncheon or tea for your group.

Tours conducted on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1pm or by appointment.

205 W. Hunt St., McKinney, Texas 75069 972-.569.6909 | Heardcraig.org

Steeping Cowgirls

Travel makes you modest.

You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.

- Gustave Flaubert

Our Contributors Celebrate 10 years of tea travel: Lee Q. Garcia, Editor-in-chief

Lee is a foodie that loves Bed & Breakfasts and finding vintage silverware. She is a tea blender and educator, guest lecturing at several colleges and festivals to inspire newbies to dip into the tantilizing drink.

"From the first issue, I was hooked. I have gained good friends in 10 years. Tea people are the best!" -Penny

Stephanie Miller, Senior Correspondent Stephanie Miller has covered tea, travel and cultural events for 6 years. She has met bright lights in the tea industry and the brilliant minds behind some of the region’s charming tea traditions.

"I have been touched by the connections we experience through our women’s groups and guilds, and witnessed the mountains we can move when women join forces. It is a joy to share with our readers the stories that have arisen along the journey." -Stephanie

Elizabeth Cerda, Toddler Teatime

Exhibiting her client’s preference, she coordinates baby showers, bridal showers, ladies teas and children's tea parties. For your party questions, visit her at tea4us2@ aol.com.

Janet Pool, Book Reviews

Janet, a native Texan, resides in Round Rock with her husband and three cats. She enjoys reading, traveling with her husband, crafting, volunteering, and of course, anything related to tea! Email: letshaveatea.googlepages.com.

"In my opinion Texas Tea & Travel is a ‘must have’ for tea lovers. I love the eye-catching covers, informative features on tea, recipes, reviews and unique travel locales!" -Janet

Heather Clary, Traveling Tea Master

Heather 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, Brazilian Jui Jitsu, quilting, and running.

Petrene Soames, Guest Column

Petrene is an author, speaker and paranormal expert living in The Woodlands, TX, with an assortment of furry friends. She offers Regression therapy, Tea leaf readings and other services. Online: Timeismine.com

"Congratulations on the 10th Year Anniversary Issue! I’m blessed and excited to be a part of this travel publication. I have visited many tea rooms and festivals that I may not have years ago! Looking forward to more new friendships. " - Elizabeth

Paula Myers, Tea at the Ready

Paula Myers is a recent empty nester who enjoys nothing better than a good cuppa tea and a “sit-down.” She loves living in Houston and exploring the many opportunities for tea her city affords.

Lisa Walker, Guest Quilt Column

Lisa is co-owner of Buttons n’ Bows in Houston, along with her mother, Marge Yetts. The shop has been in business for more than 30 yrs, serving Houston with smocking and heirloom sewing supplies and classes.

"Once returning home to Texas, I was honored to take part in a cultural women's publication that focused on my two passions. Texas Tea&Travel has given me an ever growing window into the culture and beauty that Texas has to offer." -Michelle

Michelle Lindsey, Gulf Coast Writer Growing up, some of Michelle's fondest memories of her maternal grandparents were playing with a silver tea set in the shadow of the beautiful teacups that her grandmother had collected. Later as a military wife, Michelle started her own collection on their global assignments.

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

Penny Ward, Tea Etiquette

Penny Ward is a Certified 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.

89th Annual orks w e r i F Every day Satur

11 am - 9 pm

“Turn on the Holidays”

Bluesiana Re Live in d

The official start to the Natchitoches Christmas season - turning on the lights, musical entertainment, children’s activities and fireworks!

Christmas Festival December 5

1 pm • Festival of Lights Parade 3:30 • Live Entertainment by Chicken on the Bone Band 6 pm • Fireworks Over Cane River Lake

Concert

Join us for these other events: Holiday Kids Fest Christmas Tour of Homes Christmas Gala

Background photo compliments of Karen L. Hoyt

November 21 • Free Event

Carolers in Mineola

Dallas - North Texas

North Texas 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.

November 27 – January 3 Holiday Tea at The Dallas Arboretum Seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Held in Restaurant DeGolyer, tea service begins with a demitasse of select soup, followed by a second course of assorted tea sandwiches and a third course of sweet treats. Price includes general garden admission. Reservations required. Cost is $47 per person and $57 per person for champagne tea.

Private tea service and teas for over eight people available upon request; 214-515-6511 www.dallasarboretum. org/visit/dining/seated-teas.

Nov. 27-29, 2015 Home for the Holidays: A McKinney Christmas This annual festival set in McKinney’s quaint and picturesque downtown square offers a getaway from the rat race of Black Friday shopping and a chance to make holiday memories thanks to live entertainment, familyfriendly activities, carousel rides, snow hill and of course, Santa! Thanksgiving Weekend: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday.

VisitMcKinney.com

North Texas & Louisiana

Louisiana Step back in time, over 2000 years ago, and walk the streets of ancient Bethlehem as Mary and Joseph did on the night of Christ’s birth. On your journey to the site of the Nativity, you will meet innkeepers, merchants, craftsmen, tradesmen, clergy, and many other citizens as they portray daily life in the City of Bethlehem, complete with sheep, camels, and donkeys. You can also visit Herod’s Court and await the nightly parade of the three kings bringing their treasures to Bethlehem’s newest citizen.

December 5 Huntsville for the Holidays, Huntsville The Holiday season kicks off within the downtown square with a Christmas Parade and Fair and the lighting of the Courthouse Christmas Tree, historic home tours, and a Journey Through Bethlehem at the Walker County Fairgrounds, www.hunstville.com.

Dec 3-6, Dec 31 – January 3 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.

Opening December 5 To Have and To Hold, Stark House, Orange Rarely exhibited objects from the 1881 wedding of philanthropists Miriam Lutcher and W.H. Stark, including her stunning lace wedding dress, photographs, letters and documents, take you through their classic love story. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., whstarkhouse. org.

December 3 Schmeckenfest, La Grange La Grange’s Wassail Tasting and Christmas Extravaganza on the Square features more than 20 types of wassail, and treats. VisitLaGrangeTX.com.

979-968-3017.

December 6 Magically Mineola Holiday Celebration, Mineola Festivities include the Mineola League of the Arts Bazaar, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., a home tour sponsored by the Mineola Landmark Commission from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Carriage Rides at the Gazebo, a Merry Merchants Open House downtown from 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Christmas Parade, 5:30 p.m., and a tree lighting after the parade; www. mineola.com, 1-800-Mineola.

December 4-6 and 11-13 Bethlehem Revisited, Waxahachie 6 pm-9 pm 402 N. College Street (behind Central Presbyterian Church). Free Admission.

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December 15 Living History at Independence Hall, Washington on the Brazos Travel back in time to where a nation was born in 1836. Staff and volunteers dressed in period clothing bring to life the people and events of Old Washington. Enjoy some early Texas games, and write with a quill pen. 936-878-2214.

December 5 89th Annual Christmas Festival, Natchitoches Celebrate the Christmas Season in Louisiana’s Oldest City. Ranked among the best holiday light shows in the nation, the daylong festival is filled with musical entertainment, arts, crafts, a parade and fireworks. www.

NatchitochesChristmas.com; www.

Natchitoches.com; 800-259-1714.

Louisiana’s Holiday Trail of Lights Various Dates November - December The cities of Shreveport-Bossier, Monroe-West Monroe, Alexandria/ Pineville, Minden and Natchitoches invite you “join the chorus” with holiday lights, festivities and cultural events to make the season unforgettable. Learn more at www.

HolidayTrailofLights.com.

Celebrate the Holidays in New Orleans Plantation Country Various Dates The plantations throughout the area will be dressed in their finest holiday splendor and gift shops will beckon with unique treasures for holiday giftgiving while commemorating your special journey.

See VisitNOPC.com/bonfire for more information on holiday celebrations, including the famed bonfires along the levee of the Mississippi River, and see Facebook page for a giveaway trip.

November 22 Anniversary Celebration; Teddy Bear Tea, Le Petite Gateau, Sunset Bring the little ones to Le Petit Gateau Bakery and Tea Salon to enjoy a Teddy Bear Tea Time on November 22. Le Petit Gateau celebrates its one –yr anniversary. Stop by and celebrate with 10% off (with a coupon) and enter in a drawing to win a holiday cake! 829 B Napoleon Ave., Sunset; 337-662-3000; lepetitgateau.com.

texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015 Fall 2015 | texasTtravel.com

Dallas - North Texas

Classic Vintage for the Contemporary Lady

The Chic Cherie

Vintage fashions of the Golden Age.

Shop our fine line of Vintage Fashions: Day, Evening & Designer

Handbags, Hats and Accessories Fabulous Furs Large Collection of Jewelry

Contact Marilyn Harris vintagechiccherie@gmail.com Inside High Street Antiques

800 N. Central Exp Plano, Tx 75074 972-509-7878 www.chiccherieboutique.com

age y Vint We bu welr y, furs s, je clothe ccessories. and a

Tea Room • Gift Shop JUST STEPS FROM HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN GRAPEVINE, COME JOIN US FOR A DELICIOUS MEAL AND LOVELY GIFTS.

Enjoy Holiday Tea at the Dallas Arboretum NOVEMBER 27 – JANUARY 3 Seatings at 11am & 2pm • Daily

Now Open for Breakfast

Catering Available Available for Parties, Showers & Special Luncheons

Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 3:00pm

RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED 817.488.8850 216 W Wall Street • Historic Grapevine

www.BeatitudesGifts.com

Experience the holidays with a visit to the charming Restaurant DeGolyer. Enjoy a three course elegant tea presented by Gil’s Elegant Catering, tour the historic DeGolyer House featuring The Artistry of the Nativity exhibit. Stroll The 12 Days of Christmas exhibit featuring life-size Victorian style gazebos filled with the charming characters made famous by the beloved holiday carol.

Reservations required.

Call 214-515-6511 to reserve your seating.

DallasArboretum.org 8525 Garland Road • Dallas, Texas 75218 214-515-6500 The Dallas Arboretum is a non-profit organization that is supported, in part, by funds from Dallas Park & Recreation.

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

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Decadent fresh pastries are a memorable part of any trip to Europe.

You must peek into every pasticceria (pastry shop) to see what special pastries might be tempting behind those beautiful displays.

Many Italian pasticcerias showcase beautiful Austrian peach cookies, with brandy and green stems.

It’s also a treasure to see what is unique to the area and how the regular findings in pastry shops compare.

They're a Christmas teatime favorite!

By Babs Bukowski These delightful cookies were served at the Houston Yacht Club's 26th annual SAIL TO HIGH TEA in La Porte.

Babs Bukowski brought her antique tea cups and served blossoming white, green, oolong, black, Masala chai, and red teas. Most popular was a rooibos tea, Tea Embassy’s "Wedding Cake."

Forty-five attendees brought a grand variety of finger sandwiches, cakes, and sweets.

Joanne Humphries, Regatta Chairperson, provided sailors with elbow length white gloves to join others who arrived by land yachts to Sandy Hayes' bay home. What a surprise to see honored guest, HRM

Queen Elizabeth II, in her cardboard self!

Megan Mulvey coordinated the event flawlessly as many ladies posed with the queen, though she was a woman of few words.

COOKIE INGREDIENTS 1 Cup Sugar 3/4 Cup Vegetable Oil 1/2 Cup Milk, may substitute Half & Half 2 Large Eggs 3/4 Teaspoon Baking Powder 1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla 4 Cups All Purpose Flour PEACH FILLING INGREDIENTS 1/2 Cup Chopped Almonds 3 Ounces Softened Cream Cheese 3/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon 2 Tablespoons Instant Peach Tea 2 to 3 Tablespoons Peach Brandy Reserved cookie crumbs to make filling the consistency to fill both halves of the cookie.

DECORATING INGREDIENTS Remaining Brandy 1 Box Red Jello 2 Boxes Apricot Jello Artificial, Plastic Green Leaves with Small Stem, 1 for each cookie.

INSTRUCTIONS Make the basic cookie. Mix sugar, eggs, oil, milk, vanilla, baking powder, and flour. Mix well and roll into small balls (like the size of a black olives). Bake on lightly greased cookie sheets at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 18 minutes. After cooled, scoop out a small hole from the flat side of each cookie, and reserve these crumbs.

Mix the filling ingredients, making certain to use only sufficient cookie crumbs reserves to obtain needed consistency for the nut filling.

I always have leftover crumbs to enjoy, after mixing the nut filling.

Put nut filling in holes of two cookies, then put the two cookie flat sides together, dip this round peach into brandy, then dip one spot in red jello and the remainder of the cookie in apricot jello for a blushed peach look.

Let peach cookies dry on racks. After a cookie is completely dry, brush it with a pastry brush to get a finished fuzzy peach look.

Last step is to add a green leaf.

Yields 64 half peaches, or 32 whole peach cookies.

Fall 2015 | texasTtravel.com

By Petrene Soames

The history of tea drinking is long and far reaching, steeped in traditions from far away places including France, England, China, Japan and India; right through to the nomadic Beduoin tribes in the deserts of the Middle East. The United States is a relatively young country; therefore we all have histories in other parts of the world.

It’s safe to say that we each have in our DNA, memory or subconscious, memories of tea making, drinking, or dressing for tea from other times and places.

and experienced of Deja vu, it is quite common. This word comes from the French language and it means literally “already seen.” You may have had a memory, a sense of familiarity, or a vague feeling of knowing that you have been in another time and place. Once a client went back to a time where he found himself making tea in a very careful and mindful way. It was tea for his master, and the man was experiencing himself as a Buddhist monk in a temple in Ancient Tibet.

Do you recall another time and place where you drank tea, made tea, picked tea or were somehow involved with tea? Who were you then: a Madame, servant, rich or poor? Male or female? Young or old?

What was your situation in life? Ask the question and explore your answers. As I was taking a moment while drinking tea to read Texas Tea & Travel, I felt connected to other times and places, to tea and home.

The tea was hot with the traditional yak butter; the monk also drank this tea and was not at all put off by the butter in the way that he said he would have been in present times. He loved the peace and beauty and the tranquility of the temple built into the side of a mountain at an almost inaccessible place. He came back and was now amazed at the details he had seen and felt of this other time.

There are many answers and possibilities, Deja vu is an experience in healthy each as different and unique as we are. individuals. A 2004 study concluded that If you have gone to a historic place over two thirds of the population had such

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

an experience and between 31% and 96% reported it. If you have ever felt that tea has taken you back, you are not alone. It is worth exploring and you may well be the richer for it.

To go back in time is called to regress.

Regression therapy works without the use of hypnosis. You remain in control, but are deeply relaxed. This is a great way to find out about past time. You will feel during the session as if you are in the present and the past at the same time.

After the experience, many have feelings of relaxation and peace, even surpirse, where things start making more sense. I include a follow up phone session ten days later, where the client can talk about thoughts and pinpoint why the experience was useful. Many have questions answered that might have arisen.

As you relax with friends in a historic venue, a country garden or simply drink tea solo, relax and let the tea ”take you back.”

Sheraton McKinney Hotel & Conference Center Now Open!

Contact the McKinney CVB sales staff today to schedule a site visit of the unique venues McKinney has to offer.

VisitMcKinney.com 888-649-8499 888-649-8499

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Nov-Dec

2015

You’ll feel at home for the holidays with a heartwarming weekend filled with wonderful activities, touring, dining and shopping in Waxahachie. Upcoming holiday events include: Candlelight Home Tour, Bethlehem Revisited and Santa Run.

waxahachiecvb.com | 469-309-4040

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

13

Dallas - North Texas

Specializing in Small Market Meetings

Celebrate the Christmas Season in some of the most beautiful settings in the south. Mansions will be dressed in fresh fruit, greenery and seasonal floral arrangements, showcasing art and history, reminiscent of Christmases past.

NOV 7 Holiday Home Tour, Brenham

Enjoy Brenham’s fine historic homes dating to the 1800s. Tour historic homes, beautifully decorated for the holidays. 12:00–5:00 p.m., tickets at the Giddings Stone Mansion. 979-836-1690 giddingsstonesmanison.com

NOV 7–DEC 20 Annual Home for the Holidays Celebration, Old Town Spring

There will be live entertainment each weekend; come enjoy your favorite school or church choir, bell ringers, dancers, cloggers, carolers and more. Over 150 shops decorated with red bows, thousands of twinkling lights and ropes of garland will welcome visitors. Photos with Santa will be available at Santa's Workshop located on Main Street. Ride the ‘Be An Angel’ Christmas train through town. Oldtownspring.com

DEC Christmas Village at Bayou Bend, Houston

Celebrate the season at Bayou Bend! Festive lighting displays throughout the gardens, a theatrical house experience, and a resplendent holiday tent transport you to a winter wonderland this December. 713-639-7300, mfah.org

DEC 2, 3-6, 10-16 Dallas Woman’s Forum Holiday Home Tour and Tea

Candlelight Christmas Tour & Boutique, Dec 2, 6:00pm-9:00pm, tickets $75.00, includes Champagne, chocolates, cider and Holiday

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

Home Tour Ticket; Holiday Home Tour, Boutique & Bake Sale, Dec 3-6, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., tickets $10, lunch by reservation, $15; European Tea Room, Dec 10-13, Dec 13-16, Noon, $50, by reservation, includes Champagne, tax and gratuity. 214-823-4533, www.dallaswomansforum.org

DEC 3 Christmas On Main Street, La Porte

This evening event offers an incredible atmosphere, entertainment, costume characters and Tree lighting ceremony on Historic Main Street in La Porte. Time: 5-8pm, visitlaportetx.com

DEC 5 18th Annual Christmas on Texas Avenue, Baytown

A magical holiday event in historic Goose Creek with food, fun, music, entertainment, gifts galore, sidewalk chalk art, rides for the children, pictures with Santa and much, much more.

281-674-5163, christmas-on-texas-avenue.com

DEC 5 Christmas in a Small Town, Terrell

Tour lovely historic homes and a historic church in this event by the Social Science Club of Terrell, benefiting local charities; complimentary cider and cookies at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church parish hall. sscofterrell.com.

DEC 5 Holiday Home Tour, Fredericksburg

Christmas will be on display at seven unique homes in Fredericksburg. This year’s tour features six beautifully restored

Houston - Gulf Coast

homes in town and a restored 1800s farm house in the country, all decorated in their finest for the holidays. The Museum Christmas Store will be located at the home of Michael Hurst and Marsha Meek on Pecan Street. This is a self-guided tour. 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. $30 per person. 830-990-8441, pioneermuseum.net

DEC 5-6 Candlelight Home Tour, Waxahachie

From 2 pm-8 pm, three unique homes, spanning from the Victorian era to the 21st Century, will don their holiday finery.

Tickets: $15 per weekend; children under 12 FREE.

DEC 5-6 42nd Annual Tour of Homes, McKinney

The tour presents some of McKinney’s most charming architectural gems. chestnutsquare.org.

DEC 6 Oak Alley Plantation's Annual Christmas Bonfire Party, Vacherie, Louisiana

Delicious Cajun/Creole buffet, open bar, lively dance band, and plenty of good cheer combine to heighten the holiday spirit throughout the famous alley of oaks and the lovely antebellum mansion. One of the most popular events of the season, dress code is festive holiday attire or semi-dressy. Event is outdoors so dress warmly and wear the right shoes to dance in. Tickets are $125.00 per person inclusive 7PM – midnight. 225-265-2151 oakalleyplantation. com/events/annual-christmas-bonfire-party

DEC 9 Norwegian Country Christmas Tour: A Tour of Homes, History and Art, Clifton

In the 1850’s Norwegian immigrants settled in an area near Clifton that became known as “Norse”. Celebrate Clifton’s Norwegian heritage December 9th, 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. A tour of homes, history, and art includes sites in Clifton and the Norse Historic District.

Tickets Prices: $10 Adults, Norwegian Luncheon $10. Contact: Clifton Chamber of Commerce, 1-800-344-3720 cliftontexas.org

DEC 9, 11, 12, 16, 18 AND 19 2015 Natchitoches Historic Foundation Christmas Tour of Homes

Experience the charm of Historic Natchitoches by exploring some of its most iconic historic homes, including the Steel Magnolia House, Metoyer Brown House, Samuel Guy House

and Prudhomme-Roquier House. Styles range from Victorian to Greek Revival and French Colonial. Louisiana ambiance at its best!

NatchitochesChristmas.com

DEC 12 Christmas in Historic Montgomery

9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Head out to historic Montgomery Texas for a fantastic day with a family atmosphere with activities including Arts and Crafts sale, Breakfast with Santa, a parade and cookie walk.

Then visit the many decorated and lighted historic homes during the candlelight home tour. 936-597-5004, experiencemontgomery.com

DEC 12-13 Heritage Society’s Candlelight Tour, Houston

The Heritage Society's at Sam Houston Park will host the annual candlelight tour showcases eight of Houston's oldest historic structures. Through entertainment, skits, and tours, families will hear the stories of Houston's past. Guests will tour decorated buildings, interact with historic characters, participate in children’s activities in Santa’s Workshop, and learn about Houston’s early residents, cultures, and customs. 713-655-1912, heritagesociety.org

DEC 12-13 Dallas Heritage Village Candlelight

How did people of the past envision their holiday celebrations?

Past and present holiday images converge at Dallas Heritage Village Candlelight, a Dallas tradition for 44 years. Sing along with strolling carolers, tell St. Nicholas your holiday wishes, ride in Nip and Tuck’s donkey-pulled carriage and make holiday crafts. Local groups perform on three stages all evening. Festive foods are available for purchase from food trucks as well as a bake sale, traditional kettle korn, nuts and more; 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. both days. Discount Tickets online through December 12: $10/Adult, $8/Senior and $6/Child.

Gate: $12/Adult, $10/Senior and $8/Child

DEC 12 Candlelight Christmas, Barrington Living History Farm, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site Experience Christmas as Texians did in the 1850s. Vignettes of Texian frontier festivities, music, musket firing, dancing and a tour of the farm. Barrington was the home of the last president of the Republic of Texas, Dr. Anson Jones. 4:30 p.m.–9 p.m.

936- 878-2214, ext. 246.

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

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Wintry Mineola Dallas - North Texas

Holidays are Magical in Mineola There’s something special about Christmas time in East Texas, and Mineola captures that magic with a host of holiday events.

Founded in 1873, Mineola is located 90 miles east of Dallas. It was once the home of Governor James Hogg (governor of Texas from 1891-1895, and his famous daughter Miss Ima, beloved philanthropist and champion of historic preservation who was born in a home on Line Street in Mineola.

True to Miss Ima’s legacy of gracious living, this small Texas town has been charming visitors for more than 140 years. For the holidays, Mineola is in top form with these events: December 3 “A Very White Christmas

6 p.m. - 10 p.m., Civic Center, 903-569-6115 December 5 Mineola League of the Arts Bazaar

10 a.m. – 7 p.m., 200 W. Blair, 903-569-8877 Tour of Homes, sponsored by Mineola Landmark Commission Carriage Rides at the Gazebo, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Free

(sponsored by the Merry Merchants of Mineola) Merry Merchants Winter Whirl, Open House, 4 p.m.- 5:30 p.m.

Magically Mineola Christmas Parade, 5:30 pm.

Followed by Tree Lighting and Santa at the Gazebo Also, there will be a Christmas Concert by the Lake County Symphonic Band on December 14 at 2 p.m.

Learn more about holiday festivities at www.mineola.com, or 1-800-MINEOLA.

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Dallas - North Texas

Carolers, Carriage Ride, Crafts and Model Train at

CANDLELIGHT AT DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE Begin the holiday season with Texas’ earliest residents and see how holiday traditions were celebrated in the late 1800s on December 12 and 13, 3 - 9 p.m., at the 44th Annual Candlelight Celebration at Dallas Heritage Village, at 1515 South Harwood near downtown.

“A Picture Perfect Candlelight” gives visitors many opportunities to capture that special Candlelight moment. Visitors will explore how people of the past envisioned their holiday celebrations.

Take a stroll and experience gleeful carolers, holiday storytelling, handweaving, blacksmithing, interpreters in traditional costume, and many other festive activities, such as the popular American Flyer model train exhibit in the Depot, operated by the Lone Star Flyer Model Train Club. Tell St. Nicholas your holiday wishes, ride in Nip and

popular in the 19th century and are simple devices that brought animated entertainment to adults and children alike until the development of modern cinema.

During Candlelight, pioneer and Victorian Choose a picture or draw your own for a Texas is brought to life by characters picture perfect toy. You may also create dressed in period costumes. Guests may a Popsicle stick wooden picture frame to explore a variety of historic buildings, hold your Candlelight memories. While circa 1840 to 1910, traditionally decorated you build a classic wooden frame with by area garden clubs. Different family these sticks, learn the history of the holiday traditions and activities are popsicle. See what it’s like to tint photos celebrated at Candlelight by interpreters. and practice tinting vintage photos to Listen to cowboys tell tales around the create a unique image. bonfire, and stop by the Alamo saloon for a root beer and a game of dominoes. Don’t General admission (gate prices) is $12 forget to visit a special 19th century guest, for adults, $10 for seniors 65+ and $8 St. Nicholas, in the Depot and snap a photo for children ages 4-12. Children 3 and under and museum members are free. with him.

Tickets purchased online at www.

In Browder Springs Hall, kids may DallasHeritageVillage.org by December participate in hands-on holiday crafts. 12 are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65+ Create a bit of magic with a Thaumatrope and $6 for children. Call 214-421-5141 or or "wonder turner." These toys were visit dallasheritagevillage.org/candlelight.

Tuck’s donkey-pulled carriage, and enjoy entertainment and performances by local groups on three stages all evening.

Picture Perfect Candlelight December 12 & 13 • 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

For online ticket purchases, save $2 by December 10 DallasHeritageVillage.org/Candlelight 1515 South Harwood • 214.421.5141 Find us on Facebook

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Dallas - North Texas

301 Elm Drive circa 1925

Terrell Invites You to

Christmas in a Small Town

Terrell, a city just outside of Dallas that was incorporated in 1874, has an abundance of lovely architecture, with styles ranging from Victorian to Classical to Prairie and Colonial.

Some of Terrell’s most charming homes, decorated for the holidays, are featured in the December 5th “Christmas in a Small Town” tour.

Established as a depot town along the Texas and Pacific Railroad Companies’ line from Longview to California, Terrell became the headquarters of the Texas Midland Railroad, which was one of the nation’s most prosperous short-line railroads. Its president, Ned Green, made the first automobile trip in Texas.

Today Terrell is a welcoming town with charming downtown shops and dining, and events such as the home tour in December and the Terrell Heritage Jubilee in the spring.

The Christmas in a Small Town Home Tour is a fund-raising event organized by The Social Science Club, established in 1894 to promote “a better acquaintance among those interested in educational attainments and to enlarge opportunities for intellectual development and service.”

In that tradition, the annual Christmas Home Tour helps raise funds for local charities, civic and educational organizations, and scholarships, while creating awareness of the historic city of Terrell.

Don’t miss the chance to experience Terrell in holiday splendor! The tour will be held on December 5 from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. (tickets: $15 in advance and $20 at the door). For more information, visit www.sscofterrell.com.

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

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Cajun - LA DallasCountry - North Texas

Marilynn’s Place serves up good Cajun/Creole food in quirky atmosphere

By Aly Velasquez

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights is a unique holiday experience that includes shopping, dining, and fun holiday events from November to December in eight of the Bayou State’s most festive cities – Shreveport-Bossier, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches and Alexandria/Pineville.

Creole favorites, including creamy crawfish etoufee, crispy fried catfish, and their signature Hurricane Katrina Burger, described as, “big, messy, and unpredictable with all the options you can fit into a FEMA trailer - hamburger patty, NOLA roast beef, bacon, cheese, and jalapeno.”

Marilynn’s Place is more than just a restaurant. It’s a hub of friendly and fun locals eager to welcome new faces and new stories.

One of the best holiday pastimes is eating.

These cities have their fill of scrumptious places. One of those is Marilynn’s Place located in Shreveport’s historic Broadmoor neighborhood. Marilynn’s offers a quirky, “laissez les bon temps roulez” atmosphere. This converted gas station features an open kitchen, upbeat music and an indoor/outdoor patio.

Everyone is family at Marilynn’s Place and the head chef makes sure everyone feels at home.

Robert Trudeau, a Shreveport native, says that his favorite dish on the menu is the fried shrimp po-boy. “The fat baguette bread is one of the keys to the flavor. A bonus is the remoulade sauce; ask for an extra or two,” he said. “An underground tip: ask the kitchen to butter and toast the loaf. They ordinarily do not take that step.

Celestial deliciousness awaits you.”

The Landing Restaurant 530 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA (318) 352-1579 Sunday Champagne Brunch - the Landing's Champagne Brunch has long been a favorite in Natchitoches.

It is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays with complimentary champagne or mimosas.

An extensive buffet is available along with their lunch menu. Live Jazz music.

Robert "Bozz" Baucom, who named his restaurant after his mother, comes from a long career in culinary arts. His mission is to deliver New Orleans cuisine and style. This friendly chef truly cares about his customers and somehow always has time to make a round to say hello, as is Louisianan hospitality tradition.

The restaurant is open 7 days a week and often has live music and drink specials.

But the real party is Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. –2 p.m. Marilynn’s offers $12 bottomless brunch drinks with their famous signature build your own Bloody Marys and mimosas bar. The brunch menu ranges from traditional shrimp and grits, to light salmon platters, and savory country biscuits with andouille sausage and gravy.

Guests stay for hours on the outside patios while sipping drinks and mingling.

The menu offers a variety of Cajun/

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Visiting north Louisiana for the holidays?

Try these other brunch spots on the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights:

The Mariner's Restaurant 5948 Hwy 1, Natchitoches, LA (318) 357-1220 Sunday Brunch - The Mariner's host their Sunday brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and features Eggs Benedicts, shrimp and grits and more.

For a complete list of holiday happenings in all eight of the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights cities, visit www. holidaytrailoflights.com.

By Heather Clary

Most of my articles revolve around tea and exotic travel, including domestic and international destinations. This article focuses the hopes that youth around the world will newly appreciate the art of taking tea, regardless of their geography.

Just recently I was informed of a new educational tea club for academic schools, including universities, that is sponsored by an established international tea association. As an educator, I responded as quickly as possible to the offer. Within three weeks, the association had shipped numerous items, including full-leaf tea, for my newly formed After-School tea club.

On Mondays my students enjoy a lost art. That art is- socializing with friends and conversing over hot tea without the use of electronic distractions and technology. Studies have shown that students who drink tea enjoy better grades in school, improved concentration, focus and grounding, a deeper understanding of ethics and integrity, and enhanced personal behavior and compassion for others. Two future activities forthe tea club include hands on cooking activities to enhance the flavors in

food partnered with teas and fundraising for children of tea plantation farmers (funding schooling/supplies for children that would otherwise not be able to attend school due to financial ability).

Teachers starting an ITMA Tea Club™ at their school will receive, free of charge, an 8-piece ITMA Starter Tea Kit from Imperial Tea in San Francisco, 6 Chinese tasting and aroma cups, 17 high-end tea samples, new member enrollment forms, club flyer template for posting meetings, sample meeting announcements, and a special club door sign.

Interested in starting a ITMA Tea Club?

Contact the International Tea Masters Association (619) 210-1080

Cajun - LA DallasCountry - North Texas

Destrehan Plantation

Houmas House Plantation & Gardens

Laura: A Creole Plantation

Historically DIFFERENT

Countless stories live within the walls and grounds of our plantations which have held watch over the mighty Mississippi for centuries. Plan your history-making adventure today and have your own stories to tell. /NolaPlantations • 866.204.7782 • VisitNOPC.com

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

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Houston - Gulf Coast Tea Treasures

By Stephanie Miller The joy of gathering over a good cup of tea has always been the inspiration for the quality teas produced by Ahmad Tea, a purveyor of fine, beautifully presented teas known for deftly smooth flavor and brilliant blends.

“Tea is at the heart and soul of The Ahmad Tea family,” explains Marketing Manager Shadi Afshar, a relative of the family that founded Ahmad Tea in the UK in 1986. “From the moment you wake up in our house, tea is being brewed throughout the day.”

Passion in a pursuit is what produces superlative results. Ahmad Tea’s commitment to a fine tea experience is evident in its classic black teas (think English Tea Number 1 and English Breakfast), packaged to evoke memories of an English tea experience; innovative cold-brew teas inspired by the American market; and constantly evolving new blends.

At the forefront are Detox tea, which features notes of fennel, dandelion and ginger and is soothing to the stomach; Cardamom Tea, a comforting tea starring the spice that is used in Chai; and the customer favorite herbal blend, Chamomile Lemongrass.

A whimsical, red double decker bus tea tin is one of Ahmad Tea’s most recognizable tea gifts, and

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representative of the brand’s eyecatching packaging. The characters depicted on the bus are actual Ahmad Tea employees, and the bus tin has been a customer favorite around the globe.

Other products reminiscent of England have included tins commemorating the Royal Wedding, and those featuring lovely village scenes and castles.

“We are very proud of our English heritage,” Shadi notes. “In England, when you visit someone’s home, the first thing they say is, May I offer you a cup of tea? Our managing director believes everyone deserves a proper cup of tea.”

Four generations of the family are involved in the company, providing tea to more than 80 countries and to the Royal Collection, which includes Buckingham Palace.

The classic Ahmad Tea blend English Tea Number 1 is appreciated worldwide. With a light touch of Bergamot, it offers an easy way to savor the English tradition of relaxing

and enjoying a wonderful, restorative beverage. Shadi notes that Number 1 is among Ahmad Tea’s top sellers, and its notable smoothness is what makes it a top choice for all kinds of tea lovers.

Here in the South, where iced tea is always in season, Ahmad Tea’s fresh and vibrant fruit-flavored teas have found an enthusiastic audience. Apricot and Peach & Passion Fruit are among the top sellers. At the Fancy Foods Expo in New York last Summer, Ahmad Tea introduced the first generation of its Iced Teas, the Cold Brew Teas, available in Classic English (unflavored), Peach & Passion Fruit, and Lemon & Lime Twist.

It includes recipes and a beautifully illustrated history of tea timeline, going back to 1657, when tea was first sold as a health beverage in London.

The process of producing tea is also illustrated and explained and the site offers a forum for customers to share their feedback and requests. Shadi notes that Detox tea was the result of one such customer request and Ahmad Tea loves the synergy of developing blends geared to their customers’ preferences. Email info@ahmadteausa.com with yours. Educational videos in which Ahmad Tea’s Tea Master offers tea tips are available on youtube.com/ user/AhmadTeaUK. If you are visiting the UK, plan an excursion to Hampshire, where Ahmad Tea fans are invited to tour the company’s offices, which include a tea museum and tasting room. Make sure to plan a stop at ChariTeas, an Ahmad Tea-sponsored tearoom in Hampshire, whose profits benefit disabled children and those dealing with chronic illnesses.

“It took many months of testing to ensure the flavor would come through properly in cold water,” Shadi says of the cold-brew concept, in which the teabag is submerged in cold water to steep for 5-6 minutes. The result is a smooth iced tea, with no bitterness, that is easy to make and great on the go.

Strawberry Shortcake with Cardamom Black Tea Whipped Cream

Ahmad Tea’s giftware, while preserving a few classics, is always growing to respond to the preferences of a sophisticated market with an increasing demand for tea.

In the last five years the industry has boomed in the U.S..

Ahmad is influenced by the way the U.S. tea drinkers like tea – exotic, unique flavors with creative packaging, such as the tins showcasing watercolor paintings, designed by artists, musical tea tins, Christmas tree baubles filled with tea, along with teaware and accessories.

In 2016, look for indulgent dessert blends, such as Mango Lychee Souffle and Strawberry Velvet Cake, in pyramid tea bags, and a few new surprises, all of which will be available at www. ahmadteausa.com.

The site is a mustvisit for tea enthusiasts.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 tablespoon sugar

2 tablespoons Ahmad Tea Cardamom Black Tea

1 cup sliced strawberries

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

4 dessert pastry shells or buttermilk biscuits (sliced in half)

DIRECTIONS Add the cream and vanilla to a small pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Stir in the tea and remove the pot from burner and let the tea steep for 15 minutes.

Strain the tea leaves, pressing to extract every drop of cream.

Pour the tea- infused cream into an airtight container and cool in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Place a large mixing bowl and metal whisk in the freezer. When ready to whip, add cream to the chilled bowl, stir in sugar and whip with a whisk or electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

Top each pasty shell with sliced strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately with a cup of Ahmad Cardamom Black Tea. Recipe from Ahmad Tea – find other recipes at www.ahmadteausa. com.

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Tea Treasures Dallas - North Texas

Give the gift of tea this holiday season.

A special treat for our Texas fans:

Enjoy 15% off your order until Christmas day use code: TexasTea15

100% all-natural herbal teas Highest quality black teas, green teas and fruit teas

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www.ahmadteausa.com

texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

The lovely Yellow Rose of Texas Quilt, displayed earlier this year at the Texas Quilt Museum in La Grange, was hand quilted, hand appliqued and hand embroidered by San Antonio quilter Arminda Lopez between 2011 and 2013.

Each block on the Baltimore album-style quilt features a connection to Texas and Texas history.

The State Capitol, the Alamo, the San Jacinto monument, all six flags of Texas, and the state’s renowned bluebonnets are all depicted on this charming quilt, bordered by yellow roses.

A variety of elegant tea gifts

i ahmadtea

Quilt Pays Tribute to The Lone Star State

[ahmadteauk

Texas Tea & Travel shares Arminda’s pride in our beloved Lone Star state. Hats off to Arminda for the fabulous job she did on this very special piece!

RockPoRt, texas PRESENTS

IT’S ALL ABOUT

TEXAS QUILT SHOW

JAN 30-31, 2016 PRESENTING SPONSOR

Judged entry categories Vote for Viewers’ choice country store & scrap Dive silent auction Guild challenge Door Prizes all Day Vendors’ show specials

$5

ADMISSION second day tickets available

Rockport – Fulton High school 1801 omohundro st.

Rockport, tx

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

27

DallasQuilt - North Corner Texas

Piecemakers

By The Bay Quilt Guild

easy gifts is the elf boot wine bottle tote (center). It doesn't take a lot of time and when you add your favorite wine it is all ready for giving, no gift wrapping required.

Sewing for the Season

Throw blankets also make wonderful gifts and don't have to be difficult.

Just pick out two beautiful pieces of holiday fabric, put some batting in between, and quilt using the tying technique. You have a great gift for someone to snuggle with when the weather gets cold.

By Lisa Walker

ust looking at all the beautiful Christmas Jfabric that has arrived at Buttons 'n' Bows over the past several months inspires me to sew for the holidays. We have such a wide variety and good selection of fabric this year, from traditional Christmas prints in red, green and gold to whimsical prints in hot pink and lime green. The key to sewing for the holidays is to start early.

October and early November are great months to plan out projects and get them completed before the holiday madness begins. I enjoy making projects that are fun but also small. I never try to tackle something large for the holidays.

Home decorating is one of my favorites.

Table runners, place mats and napkins really complete the holiday table and the possibilities are only limited to your imagination. Being able to select your fabric will allow you to match existing decorations and holiday themes. I made the turkey table runner by Kimberbell (below)a couple of years ago and look forward to putting it on my dining table each Thanksgiving.

Store bought pillows can be quite expensive but making your own pillow is easy and economical. Whether you choose beautiful or whimsical holiday fabric, decorating with throw pillows will really add to your holiday decor. As shown in the picture with the manger scene, preprinted Christmas panels make lovely wall hangings. Just add a backing and it is ready for hanging or gift giving.

For my friends who cook, I love giving aprons made from holiday fabric. Try picking a great fabric and embroidering the chefs initials on it. They will be thrilled! Purses and bags are also great gifts because you can pick fabric that suits the recipient's color preferences and personality. There are really cute purse and bag patterns to match your style preference and sewing level.

The holidays are traditionally a time for sewing children's garments. Often if one of my customers makes just one special outfit a year for their child/ grandchild, it will be for the holidays.

Everyone especially enjoys receiving handmade gifts, and the holidays are a perfect time to make something for a special person in your life. One of my favorite,

For decades, hand-smocked outfits have been traditional for children to wear during the holidays. Appliqueing holiday themes such as snowmen, Christmas trees, and Santa on children's garments is also very trendy.

Pajamas are also popular to make for the holidays. At Buttons 'n' Bows we have a lot of soft flannels perfect for making warm pajamas. It's fun for the kids to have matching pj's to open gifts in on Christmas morning.

There is still plenty of time for holiday sewing but you need to get started. For patterns, fabric and more ideas, stop by or visit us at www.buttonsnbows.net.

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T

he temperature is dropping in Texas as we welcome the wintry weather with cups of tea and mugs of hot cocoa, and quilters are excitedly starting on a list of holiday projects, including Christmas quilts and gifts. None are more excited than Linda Caraway and Cyn Wilde of Quilter’s Cottage in Richmond, Texas.

sharpen their skills with our monthly demos, classes, and on the floor help.”

Like many quilters, the staff at the shop enjoy making holiday quilts and adding special and “I love Christmas quilts. Each one of meaningful touches. “I my bedrooms at home is transformed have a quilt in the shop into their own wonderland from sheets right now I made with a girlfriend from Ohio. We both made one of these quilts and a good friend Mary Beth quilted them for us,” Wilde says. “On the back of hers I put Christmas Cowboy boots and on the back of mine I put Christmas Cardinals. So she got a bit of Texas on hers and I got a bit of Ohio on mine.”

to decorative pillows,” Wilde says. “My children loved their beds redone for Christmas when growing up. It gives a sense of tradition and love.”

Every year there are new trends when it comes to Christmas and Winterthemed quilts. Wilde says that quilters can already start to see some of this year’s Christmas and winter fabrics at the shop.

“This year there are a lot of turquoise and red combinations,” she says. “We have several kits with adorable penguins, black and white polka dots which you are seeing throughout the shop, as well as traditional red and green. If blues and snow are what you are missing here in Texas, why not try the wonderful Cold Spell and Snowman Gatherings II at Quilter’s Cottage.”

By Michelle Lindsey

pieces, transforming cherished items, like Mom's hankies or Dad's shirts, into a family keepsake.

Decorating for the winter holiday is not the only exciting part for her. Making special gifts is one way Wilde gets into the holiday Learn more about the shop at www. spirit. “To give a quilt as a gift is such a quilterscottagefabrics.com heartwarming personal part of yourself Quilters who have visited Quilter’s Cottage may notice some recent changes for the receiver,” she remarks. as the shop restructures. They have Quilter’s Cottage has quick gift demos and transformed the Color Room into the new classes starting this time of year for those large classroom holding 10, with 2 cutting wanting to learn something new. Whether and ironing stations. The feel and the light your skill level is beginner or advanced, in this room is a favorite among customers. making a Christmas quilt is as exciting for The “$6 Room” now holds an additional the quilter as it will be for the recipient small classroom holding 4, with 1 cutting/ of the gift. Giving the gift of learning to ironing table. someone who has always wanted to learn to quilt is a great gift, and they offer gift Quilter’s Cottage is a full service quilt shop with fabric, patterns, notions, and cards for classes.

Long Arm Quilting, as well as a place of “Quilter’s Cottage has always been proud friendship and support for quilters. to promote the shop as a Learning Shop,” Wilde says. “We encourage quilters to The shop also takes on a lot of custom

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Quilt Exhibits, Texas Quilt Museum, La Grange “Contemporary Quilt Art from the Marbaum Collection,” runs October 1 – December 20, along with “Cynthia Collier: Transformed by Tradition.” Museum Admission: $8; Seniors and students: $6; 140 West Colorado, La Grange; call 979-968-3104. www.TexasQuiltMuseum.org

Circle, Arnaudville, Louisiana Taking place every Thursday from 1:30 – 3:30, join the group of French speakers keen on quilting en francais to keep these two aspects of local culture alive and well. All skill levels welcome; NUNU Arts and Culture Collective; Arnaudville; 337-754-7115 | nunucollective.org

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

November 10, 17, 24 Basic Smocking Class, Houston, TX Buttons n' Bows offers a 3-session basic smocking class for beginners. Instructor Marge Yetts teaches the basics of smocking which includes a pleated sampler and floss. A project of your choice will be needed for the second and third classes.

Class is from 1-3 p.m. and costs $50. Call (281) 496-0170

Through December 8 Benefit Quilt Raffle, Baytown, TX The Art League of Baytown hosts a quilt raffle going on which benefits the Rising Stars Special Needs Art Class. Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. For more info, call (281) 427-2222

November 21 Les Amies Christmas Treasures Arts & Crafts Sale, Natchitoches Get into the Holiday Spirit with some fabulous shopping. Natchitoches Events Center, 750 Second Street. Free Admission, www.Natchitoches.com

November 19, 26; Dec 3, 10 Les Courdre Points Quilting

November 21 Christmas Tree Paper Piecing Class, Richmond Quilter’s Cottage gets in the holiday spirit with a Christmas Tree paper piecing class for any quilting level. Class is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and costs $50 plus pattern. For more information email to megan.hashier@gmail.com or call (440) 223-3779.

14070 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77079 281-496-0170 Fine Fabrics, Smocking buttonsnbows.net & Heirloom Sewing Supplies Quilting Supplies and Fabrics

Classes Offered

December 6 Mineola League of the Arts Bazaar, Mineola The event is part of a large program of holiday events in downtown Mineola. It is held from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. at 200 W. Blair. Call 903-569-8877 for more details; www.mineola.com.

January 8-9 Heart of Texas One Stop Shop Hop, “Happy Sew Year,” Waco, TX Why drive all over when you can explore a variety of brick and mortar shops from across Texas all in one location! More than 30 shops gather for this two-day event. The Heart of Texas One Stop Shop Hop will be held at Chisholm Hall, Waco Convention Center, in Waco. Visit www.heartoftexashop.com January 30-31 Piecemakers by the Bay "It’s All About Texas” Quilt Show, Fulton High School, Rockport, TX Enjoy a variety of quilt exhibits, vendors, Country Store & Scrap Dive, silent auction and door prizes at the Piecemakers by the Bay’s 2016 show. Visit www.Piecemakersbythebay.org to learn more.

10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday store@buttonsnbows.net

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January 22-24 Quilts on the Bayou, Jefferson (see next page) February 26-27Best Little Quilt Show in Texas, La Grange (see next page)

The beautiful East Texas city of Jefferson will be bustling with quilters January 22-24, when the Jefferson Quilt Show “Quilts on the Bayou” takes place.

We always love the chance to visit Jefferson, which is filled with gracious historic homes, fun downtown shopping, lovely scenery and wonderful restaurants.

It’s the perfect place to connect with other quilters and enjoy some of the art form’s finest works, in a gracious Southern setting.

Patty Pickle will be the featured speaker, and she will demonstrate the techniques she used in her award-winning quilt, which received the “Award of Merit” from the National Quilting Association at the 2015 Jefferson Quilt Show. The featured exhibit will be the Hoffman Challenge Collection “Pomegranate Gold Quilt Challenge.” Quilts on the Bayou is a Viewer’s Choice Open Show with cash awards, ribbons, workshops, demonstrations, lectures, a raffle quilt, merchant mall and more.

The Show is held at the Jeffersonian Institute on East Austin Street and sponsored by the Jefferson Regional Quilt Alliance and the Jeffersonian Institute. It runs from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday.

Email jqshow@yahoo.com.

Jefferson Quilt Show "Quilts on the Bayou" JEFFERSON, TEXAS

January 22 - 24

FEATURED EXHIBITS

*THE HOFFMAN CHALLENGE Collection “Pomegranate Gold Quilt Challenge” FEATURED SPEAKER: Patty Pickle

VIEWER’S CHOICE OPEN SHOW WITH: Cash Awards, Ribbons, Workshops, Demonstrations, Lectures, Door Prizes,

Raffle Quilt

Merchant Mall & Special Exhibits

Sponsored by the JRQA and the Jeffersonian Institute

VisitJeffersonTexas.com HOURS & LOCATION: Friday & Saturday, 9:00am – 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am – 3:00pm Jeffersonian Institute 120 East Austin Street, Jefferson, Texas

ADMISSION: $5/Adults $4/Children 6 - 12 $9/3-Day Show Pass

FOR QUILT ENTRY FORMS: Jefferson Quilt Show PO Box 316, Jefferson, TX 75657 www.jeffersonquiltshow.com Email: jqshow@yahoo.com

Enjoy Quilt Show and Related Exhibits Throughout La Grange in February The Colorado Valley Quilt Guild Presents the 19th Annual

Friday & Saturday, February 26 & 27, 2016 Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fayette County Fairgrounds, La Grange, Texas More than just a quilt show...

More Quilt Exhibits at the following locations in 2016

Texas Quilt Museum Winedale Historical Center The Copper Shade Tree Gallery, Round Top For more information visit our website: www.cvquiltguild.com

LaGrange, the site of the Texas Quilt Museum, is earning a reputation as a quilting mecca, and quilters will be especially drawn to this Central Texas destination in February, when the Colorado Valley Quilt Guild hosts The Best Little Quilt Show in Texas.

The show is a judged show which includes a People’s Choice award, guild awards, a special award presented by the Mayor, a vendor mall, and a raffle quilt, “Glacier Star,” by Valeria Wagner with a pattern by Judy Niemeyer. The show also presents an I Spy game for children, with the prize being a small quilt. The show is held February 26 & 27, from 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m. at the La Grange Fairgrounds.

The Colorado Valley Quilt Guild will display numerous quilts in store windows around the Fayette County Courthouse in La Grange in its “Quilts on the Square” exhibit in February.

This coincides with special quilt exhibits by other museums and galleries in the county during the month of February.

Among these are The Texas Quilt Museum in La Grange, the Winedale Historical Complex in Roundtop, and Copper Shade Tree in Roundtop. Learn more about this exciting quilting event at cvquiltguild.com.

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Quilt Corner

Visit the Lovely City of Jefferson for Quilts on the Bayou

Carriage rides in Mineola Gulf Coast November and December Afternoon Tea, Kiran’s, Houston Enjoy an afternoon tea every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. featuring live harp music. Reservations are required and the cost is $35 pp.

713-960-8472 kiranshouston.com November – December 20 Annual Home for the Holidays Celebration, Old Town Spring There will be live entertainment each weekend, come enjoy your favorite school or church choir, bell ringers, dancers, cloggers, carolers and more.

Over 150 shops decorated with red bows, thousands of twinkling lights and ropes of garland will welcome visitors. Photos with Santa will be available at Santa's Workshop located on Main Street. Ride the ‘Be An Angel’ Christmas train through town. Oldtownspring.com November 13 - 15 63 Annual Theta Charity Antiques Show , Houston One of the best-known and oldest high quality Antiques Shows in the country. Top dealers from throughout the USA come to this beautiful show. Preview Party November 12. 713.622.3560, thetacharityantiquesshow.com

TEXAS T TRAVEL 32

November 15 Annual International Tea, Houston Come join us at The University Museum at Texas Southern University for an afternoon of music, dance, art and food featuring the cultures of Scotland, Barbados, The Czech Republic and Bangladesh.

3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Ticket Price $30.

713-313-7145, umusetsu.org

texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

November 18 Downton Abbey Cooking Class, McHugh Tea, Houston What better way to gear up for another amazing season of history and mystery than with a spectacular cooking class? These are meals that would have been prepared at Downton Abbey and served on a daily basis. Come Hungry! 3:00-5:00 p.m. RSVP $32 per person.

713-218-6300 mchughtea.com November 21 Mark Keathley Event, PTL Gallery, Old Town Spring Princess Elsa will make an appearance at the gallery from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., come take selfies with Elsa, donations to her are greatly appreciated! Spend an afternoon with artist, Mark Keathley from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Refreshments will be provided 281-367-4901 PTLGallery.com December 1 Well Woman’s Group, Petrene Soames, Woodlands Meets the first Tuesday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. All ladies are welcome.

281 363 9983 Timeismine.com December 4 - 6 Dickens on the Strand Festival, Galveston The annual holiday street festival, based on 19th-century Victorian London, features parades, nonstop entertainment on five stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers and a host of other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday

December 5 First Saturday Arts Market, Houston Heights First Saturday Arts Market is a monthly outdoor fine arts event featuring the works of dozens of visual artists. Located in the Historic Houston Heights, the market showcases paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and handcrafted items. Enjoy live music and delicious fare from some of the area’s best gourmet food trucks.

713-802-1213, firstsaturdayartsmarket.com

Bellaire, TX

60+ Organic Teas Private Party Room for Events Lunch & Afternoon Tea (”High Tea”) Unique Tea Accessories & Gifts Amazing Custom Cakes Pies, Quiches & more Cooking Classes Tea Classes Catering

December 5 18th Annual Christmas on Texas Avenue, Baytown A magical holiday event in historic Goose Creek with food, fun, music, entertainment, gifts galore, sidewalk chalk art, rides for the children, pictures with Santa and much, much more. 281-674-5163, christmas-on-texas-avenue.com December 6 Annual Christmas Tea Sandstone Street Bed and Breakfast, Llano Come and join us for this Christmas Tea. Event begins at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $25.

325-423-2581 sandstonestreetbnb.com December 12 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. Rate is $17.50 per person. Reservations required. 979-732-5555, prairiestreetheritagehouse.com December 27 Main Street Theatre Event, British Isle, Houston Throughout December British Isle’s shoppers will be able to register to win a pair of tickets to Main Street Theatre's production of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. The winning ticket will be drawn on December 27. MST Artistic Director (and Twelfth Night director) Rebecca Greene Udden, Guy Roberts (Prague Shakespeare Company’s Artistic Director who is also playing Sir Toby Belch) will speak about the production and will be joined by other performers from the show. Light refreshments will be provided. 713-522-6868

Monday-Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM 5305 Bissonnet

713.218.6300

mchughtea.com

Your Cup of Tea

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

Open for Lunch and Tea

January 9 -30 9th International Texas Teapot Tournament, Houston Presented by C.A.M.E.O. and 18 HANDS GALLERY at 249 W. 19th Street.

The opening reception will be held on Saturday, January 9 from 6-9 p.m. All submitted work must be original, represent teapots and have been completed within the last 2 years. This exhibit is open to all artists who work in clay.

713-869-3099, 18handsgallery.com and cameohouston.org

Bridal Showers Bridal Luncheons Bridesmaids Tea Rehearsal Dinners

2015 Tournament Winners

713-334-4832 2620 Fondren urcupoftea.com Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

33

Houston- Gulf Coast

decorations and gift items. 409-765-7834, galvestonhistory. org

s a m t s hri l 18th Annua

e u n e v A s a x e T n reek o

n Historic i t n e v E y a l Holid

Magica

Goose C

December 5th 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

FIRST SATURDAY IN DECEMBER Food, entertainment, quality merchandise, antiques, collectibles, handmade items.

Come see our NEW Town Square’s Christmas Tree and Skating Rink.

Proceeds from the festival go toward art programs for youth, seniors and special needs adults.

LOADS OF HOLIDAY FUN - VISIT SANTA SEE OUR ART CONTESTS Vendors please inquire atcotabaytown@gmail.com

Nov 11 - End of December: Art Center Christmas Gallery Works of over thirty local artists paintings, pottery, photographs, gree ting cards, crafts, jewelry, hand-painted porcelain, decorated gourds, quilts and much more.

Holiday hours: Monday - Saturday 10 - 4 pm.

Sunday 1 - 4 pm.

Coming Spring 2016 March 12 - April 24 International FotoFest Our exhibit is entitled: Elemental Observations: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water" which celebrates this year's FotoFest "Changing Circumstances: Looking at the Future of Our Planet"

christmas-on-texas-avenue.com

A

s the holiday season approaches, our calendars are filling with activities ,from parties, to shopping trips, from family gatherings to visits with Santa.

Baytown Texas becomes a Southern Winter Wonderland each year when The Art League of Baytown hosts their annual Christmas on Texas Avenue as well as a variety of Holiday events to get even the grumpiest Grinch in the holiday spirit!

The Art League of Baytown has spent more than sixty years building an organization that has proven itself time and again. Some members have been a part of this organization since its beginning in 1954. In 2008, with the generous support of the City of Baytown, the Art League contributed to and acquired its home at 110 W. Texas Avenue and it became The Art Center of Baytown. As part of its mission to give back to the community, the Art League of Baytown created an inspiring venue for artists to gather, share, and encourage each other through art and friendship.

The Baytown community opens its arms to welcome visitors to the 18th annual Christmas on Texas Avenue Event, December 5 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. in the Historic Shopping District of Old Goose Creek. The City of Baytown began a revitalization of this historic area a few years ago and continues toward that goal by constructing Town Square Park midway on Texas Avenue in the shopping district. The park will have an ice skating rink during winter months and during the holiday season there will be a central area where a large Christmas Tree will stand. In the spring and summer months, the park will have a beautiful fountain surrounded by manicured grounds,

park benches and quaint street lights and sidewalks, perfect for quiet contemplations or family outings.

Proceeds from the Christmas on Texas Avenue event go toward The Art League of Baytown’s art programs and the refurbishing, maintenance and upkeep of The Art Center. The League is especially pleased with their Rising Stars weekly class for special needs adults. It fills a void for this peer group, open only to adults, age 22 and up. After graduating high school, there are very few social activities for this group of adults.

In the Spring of 2016, The Art League of Baytown will be hosting a venue for the FotoFest 2016 Biennial. It is the first time FotoFest will have a venue in Baytown. The Art League wanted to show off its beautiful Art Center ,and this afforded an opportunity to invite the world to our community.

FotoFest is a prestigious international photography event that has been a part of the Houston art scene since 1980, and it brings in thousands of visitors to the area. The Art League is very excited about holding this event, entitled Elemental Observations: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water which keeps in line with this year's FotoFest theme Changing Circumstances: Looking at the Future of Our Planet.

FotoFest draws more than 250,000 visitors during its six week run from March 12 - April 24, 2016. It is one of the world's longest-running, largest, and most respected international photographic art events.

For more information on The Art League of Baytown and the Art Center, visit http:// art-league-of-baytown.org or call (281) 427-2222.

The Holiday season in Baytown will be as busy as Santa’s Workshop; however, unlike Santa, the activity doesn’t end on Christmas Day!

BritishINIsles THE VILLAGE

flowers

tea and

the perfect duo.

Where Houston Shops in Britain

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

BritishIslesOnline.com 2366 Rice Blvd.

713.522.6868

...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

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

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.

112 Denny Street, Highlands, TX 77562

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

TeapotDepotGreatFood.com

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

kiranshouston.com 713.960.8472

Next to Highland Village 4100 Westheimer Houston

Escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays and take a trip to the waters edge where everyone knows your name. From our one-of-a-kind evening farmers markets complete with wine and Christmas shopping to our annual event that every resident looks forward to, Christmas on Main, there’s so many reasons to come home for the holidays in La Porte!

a a Thursday December 3rd at 5pm ARRIVE A VISITOR, LEAVE A LOCAL | WWW.VISITLAPORTETX.COM Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

37

Houston - Gulf Coast

Holiday Market Saturday Dec 5th & 19th 5-8p

Christmas is just around the corner, and in joyful anticipation we are drawn to the wondrous gift of love found at the heart of the season.

Winter Books to Cuddle With

Readers in the midst of holiday preparations may enjoy reflecting on love’s many facets while immersing themselves in the pleasure of tea served alongside a great book. The following choices offer inspiration while bringing joy to you and yours.

By Janet Pool

For those fascinated by romantic Victorian England, The Last Chance Christmas Ball is sure to become a favorite holiday read.

This delightful anthology, co-authored

by Mary Jo Putney, Jo Beverley, Joanna Bourne, Nicola Cornick, Anne Gracie, Patricia Rice, Cara Elliott, and Susan King, offers a peek into lifestyles both upstairs and downstairs at Holbourne Abbey, where plans are underway for the fiftieth anniversary of Lady Holly’s annual Christmas Ball. Readers will quickly find themselves swept up in the excitement and anticipation of the Christmas Ball’s festivities.

Artfully woven novellas provide glimpses of love’s enduring virtues through the kindness, compassion, generosity, unselfishness, and forgiveness of Lady Holly and her family and friends. The authors talented teamwork results in a seamless storyline where long lost loves are reunited along with the unexpected joy of newly discovered love.

38

For readers preferring a more contemporary style, Janet Dailey’s Long, Tall Christmas might be their ‘cup of tea.’

Set in the small Texas town of Branding Iron, Dailey’s newest romance brings to life the magic of Christmas. With plans to help run her great-aunt Muriel’s ranch, recently widowed Kylie Wayne moves back to Texas with her children Hunter and Amy. An unexpected snowfall threatens to change her dreams of a ‘perfect’ Christmas, making “comfort and joy seem unlikely unless a certain long, tall Texan with a bad boy’s charm can rope some holiday cheer…”

Dailey’s heartwarming tale intertwines the spirit of love and friendship among the various relationships. Readers will rejoice when Shane’s thoughtfulness encourages Kylie and enables Hunter and Amy to begin healing from their grief. Especially endearing is the lifelong love between Muriel and her friend, Henry. With loving creativity, obstacles are overcome and this Texas Christmas becomes one “they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”

texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

If holiday hospitality tips pique your interest, The Art and Proper Etiquette of Afternoon Tea as well as Emma the Etiquette Cat by Bernadette Michelle Petrotta might be engaging reads. While providing excellent introductions to teatime traditions, as well as etiquette tips, both books are informative without being overwhelming.

Enhanced by beautiful photographs and illustrations, The Art and Proper Etiquette of Afternoon Tea includes a brief history of Victorian Afternoon Tea along with women who have influenced teatime. Petrotta’s clarification of tea styles, combined with step-by-step instructions for tea preparation, table settings, “and other refined protocol of social graces,” will give readers confidence as they extend love through the gift of hospitality. Her wide variety of tea recipes, along with information on organic and whole foods, offers creative menu ideas. This superb resource would be a welcome addition to your tea library.

For younger readers, EMMA the Etiquette Cat is an excellent introduction to the fun of teatime and etiquette. This third book in Petrotta’s series introduces children to Emma Elizabeth, who is an “adorable Ragdoll feline.” As children get to know her sweet personality, they will be inspired to “try to emulate her good manners.” Petrotta includes place setting illustrations along with recipes for scones, fruit spread, and mock Devonshire cream. Imagine the delight of tea lovers both young and young at heart if EMMA the Etiquette Cat is underneath their Christmas tree.

Bonus Review

By Michelle Lindsey Readers will quickly discover the strength of friendship and of faith in Summer Kinard’s TEA & CRUMPLES. Sienna and Peter had it all: a house they designed themselves, two dogs in a fragrant garden, a new teashop, and a baby on the way.

Then the worse happens- they lose their child. Soon after, Peter is diagnosed with cancer, leaving Sienna fragile.

Still grieving the loss of her child and faced with the reality of losing her husband, she fears that her dream business will be jeopardized as she struggles to find the strength to hold on to her emotions and contain her fears.

She learns to lean on faith and friends as she places her heart and hopes in the hands of a higher power.

She is blessed with a spiritual gift that brings tranquility to others, even at a time when she wonders if she will be able to find peace herself.

Follow the New York Times bestselling author’s story of one woman’s journey to finding her long-awaited happiness.

“A Southern Debbie Macomber, but with a flair all her own.”

—KARIN GILLESPIE

Comfort comes in the form of new acquaintances, old friends and cups of tea. Her state of mind transforms as she learns to rejoice in the time she had with her lost child, remember the special memories in even the quietest moments with Peter, and take time to embrace a shop full of exciting and unique customers.

TEA & CRUMPLES is an excellent choice for readers looking for inspiration and restoration. Kinard has a way of encouraging readers to look for hope in times of despair, and reminds us that faith and friends are strongest when we are weak. This story will remind you to cherish the small things and take time to enjoy life, not just live it. This uplifting story will warm your heart and renew your faith.

Try Sienna’s Cookies (recipe on page 41).

A tender, funny, and fresh take on Romeo and Juliet’s star-crossed love story— told with Southern flair.

“Readers may believe they’re listening to a tale from their favorite country neighbor!”

—RT BOOK REVIEWS,

K E N S I N G T O N B O O K S . C O M

On Sale Now

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

39

Book Reviews

Love CAN Change it all...

TEA&TRAVEL

Cultural Travel Magazine Live Stories and Extras Online

nline texasTtravel.com O

CELEBRATING

10

years!

Sold at Central Market

TRAVEL

ANTIQUES

QUILTING

FESTIVALS

TEA SHOPS

Fun spots to explore in Texas.

Head to a bed & breakfast, museum or simply mozey out for a drive.

The modern tea traveler loves a good vintage find. Discover hidden antique treasures around the corner.

Crafters rejoice!

Texas quilt shows and craft stores offer the latest projects along with great classes.

Come to our TX festivals. Travel around the region to celebrate our flowers, harvests, history and people.

Gracious shops and tea rooms have a passion for teatime and cooking, from Country to Asian to European.

ubscribe Now!

Delivered to You - Four Issues per Year $19.95

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Get Cozy This Winter...

1 cup unsalted pastured butter, softened 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped Mix together flour, salt, and thyme in a bowl and set aside. To the bowl of a stand mixer, add softened butter, sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste. Beat at medium speed, scraping the bowl often, until creamy. Add flour mixture and beat at low speed, scraping the bowl often, until well mixed. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheets covered in parchment. Make indentation in center of each cookie with thumb. Fill each thumbprint with jam. Bake 14-18 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Let stand 1-2 minutes on cookie sheets, then remove to cooling racks.

Cool completely, then serve or store in airtight containers for up to a week (if they make it that long). Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

On Sale Now

“The characters are people you’d like to know.”

—Kings River Life Magazine

“Will ensnare knitters and non-knitters alike.

I couldn’t put it down.”

ENSINGTONBOOKS.COM

Tea Time QUILTING

Gen’s Antiques

When you're outfitting your home, Gen's Antiques has the selection of furniture, art and collectibles to satisfy any taste and budget.

1046 Tulane Houston, TX 77008

713-861-7743

From Seeburg Jukeboxes to Mid-Century and Classic European and American Antiques.

(713) 868-2368 GensAntiques.com

An amateur sleuth must unravel the clues to find a killer in her hometown.

—Barbara Ross

Voted Best Antique Store in The Heights- 2013 by The Leader Best in Houston- 2014 by City Voter .

BBB Accredited Business

n

Two best friends, one bookstore…and the occasional murder.

Located in the Historic Heights www.teatimequilting.com 540 W 19th St Houston, TX 77008

With over 300 pieces of local and vintage art on display, Gen’s Antiques is proud to partner with The First Saturday Arts Market every month.

Monthly Outdoor Fine Arts Event 10 YEARS OF AWESOME!

www.FirstSaturdayArtsMarket.com

Great Fabric Selection

OPEN: Mon-Fri 10 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday 10 AM - 4PM

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

41

Houston- Gulf Coast

Sienna’s Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Tea e h t t a y d a re

By Paula Myers I love New Year’s resolutions and I’ll tell you why. I always resolve to do something I really want to do instead of something that I wish I wanted to do.

One year my resolution was to never be without whipped cream in the house; another year, to kiss more. For 2016, my resolution is to have at least one guest for tea, at least once a month. If you need a reason for tea, here’s a start: A friend’s birthday My birthday Elvis’ birthday A friend has had a rough week A friend has something to celebrate My camellias have bloomed

And remember, At The Ready doesn’t have to be extravagant.

Here are some very simple things you can serve with tea: The last of the holiday cookies Any food gift you receive A box of shortbread from the grocery store Cinnamon toast That gluten-free scone recipe you’ve been wanting to try Leftover appetizers or dessert from a party As we close out the old year and ring in the new, won’t you join me in resolving to make 2016 the year that you are truly At The Ready for Tea? I’d love to hear from you if you do.

Share your TEA resolutions at Tea.n.toast@hotmail.com

Old Town Spring

Also featuring: Mark Keathley Abraham Hunter

Exclusive to Texas Robert Finale

Available for Parties!

Remember When by Abraham Hunter

318-A Main Street, Spring, TX 77373 281-367-4901 info@ptlgallery.com

Visit PTLgallery.com

Great Baby Showers, Wedding Showers, Birthdays!

Free dessert

with purchase of entree

Mention this TEA MAGAZINE ad. Expires 02/01/16 Terms Apply.

Cannot combine with any other offer. Limit one per table.

A world of German treasures beer steins | cuckoo clocks pyramids | glass ornaments amber jewelry | nutcrackers plus German food items

INVITE YOUR GUESTS and let us do the rest!

210 Gentry St | Spring.TX

281-528-8877 germangifthouse.com

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

43

Clockwise from top: TEA CAKES Many Southerners have fond memories of the teacakes from their childhood. Teacakes originated in England and evolved into a traditional, large snack in the southern United States.TEACAKE FACTORY is making waves and loving new customers. Fall in love with teacakes again! Gluten free, dairy free, sugar free and egg free available. New flavors include Red Velvet, Banana Nut, Lavender Rose and Snicker Doodle.

Teacake Factory. 281-565-0966, Sugar Land| BASKETS FROM LE PETIT GATEAU, a trendy new tea room and bakery in St. Landry Parish, offers this charming Mother/ Daughter tea set basket for the holidays. It features lovely china teacups and saucers, teaspoons, and a tin of candy cane organic fine loose tea. Order a dozen of their scrumptious brownies and you are set for a delightful holiday tea.

Basket: $25.99. Le Petit Gateau, 337-662-3000. Sunset, Louisiana |

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

TEA&TRAVEL

Special Selections

AHMAD TEA offers a lovely selection of teaware and accessories at ahmadteausa. com. For the holidays, Marketing Manager Shadi Afshar suggests a SELECTION GIFT PACK. 15% off your first order–use code: TexasTea15. ahmadteausa.com | POPPY SEED DIPS are the newest rage at teatime. A great dessert or morning snack for you and the kids. This original recipe was created by TEA IN TEXAS. Mix with vanilla yogurt and cream cheese. Enjoy! Tea in Texas, 832-955-1767 | A TOBY JUG is a figural ceramic pitcher modeled in the form of a popular character–historical, fictional or generic. It can be a person or animal. The original Tobies date back to the 1760's. The first Tobies, made in the form of a seated jovial, stout man dressed in the attire of the period. $35-$150. GEN’S ANTIQUES, 713-868-2368. Houston Heights | HUDSON AND MIDDLETON are one of the few remaining fine bone china manufacturers based in the Potteries in Stoke on Trent, England. Founded in 1875, the Company is not only one of the oldest potteries in England, but also almost unique in still operating from its original Grade II listed building. $35-85, Annvita Collection, BRITISH ISLES, 713-522-6868. Rice Village, Houston | Add a little vintage style to your holiday wardrobe. THE CHIC CHERIE has an abundant selection of festive holiday gowns that will infuse timeless chic into your party wardrobe. We love the 1960s orange and lavender Clifton Wilhite, $155. Timeless but very relevant! The Chic Cherie, High Street Antiques, 972-509-7878. Plano |JANOME MAGNOLIA 7330 Perfect for creating any kind of home decor or sewing project. $399 BUTTONS N' BOWS, 281-496-0170, West Houston

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

45

Houston - Gulf Q&A Coast Tea Etiquette

TeaEtiquette

Q&A

Regarding a complimentary meal, yes, you should tip on the value of the meal. In this case, I would be a little more generous since the meal was a gift you originally intended to buy.

A friend of mine gives an annual holiday party that I always look forward to attending. This year on that date I will have an out of town guest. Is it proper for me to ask my friend if I can bring my guest with me?

by Penny Ward

What is the proper etiquette for tipping the business owner, such as in a small restaurant, or a salon owner? I have been given mixed answers on this. Also, do I tip if a meal is complimentary?

I did extensive research on this and the answers are mixed. The former protocol was that you did not tip the business owner. That is a practice that is rapidly changing. First, it is the responsibility of the business owner to let you know if he or she does not accept tips. Absent of that, I would tip as usual. Most small business owners, whether it is a restaurant or a hair salon, are actively involved in personally serving their customers. Think of it like this- if you went to the establishment and didn’t know he/she were the owner and he/she provided you a service, you would tip, correct?

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

You are correct to ask; never show up with an “extra” without asking first!

Invitations are for the person they are specifically addressed to and no one else. If the party is a sit-down dinner where seats are assigned and space is limited, I wouldn’t ask. You might mention your situation when you rsvp your regrets. If the host has room, they will invite you to bring your guest.

If it is a larger, more casual setting, I would ask permission when you rsvp. In this situation, most of the hostesses I know have a “the more the merrier” attitude, but be prepared that they might say no due to space, budget, etc. A holiday party is a fun time, but not one where you will want to place any extra stress on the hostess.

During the holidays, I am reminded of a favorite quote by J.R.R. Tolkien, “If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”

Make your holidays more about enjoying the presence of your friends and less about the presents.

I wish for you the blessing of much cheer and merriment with family and friends this holiday season!

Houston- Gulf Coast

Based in the heart of Old Katy, Open 6 days a week.

Home style food with European air Lunch served Monday - Saturday Sandwiches, salads, quiche, pot pies Home made pastries, pies and cakes Tasty hot and cold lunch specials daily.

281-392-7970 kaysteaparlour.com 5617 Second Street Katy, Texas 77493

281-413-4714 PennyWard.com

TEA ROOM Private Parties Meetings Catering Party Trays Orders To Go 154 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 Hours : 11- 2

Monday - Saturday

281-992-8327 (teas) Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

47

by Stephanie Miller If your passion for tea has led you to collect china or crystal or silver, you know the thrill of finding those special pieces.

There is nothing like coming across the perfect addition to your collection in an antique store or at Canton First Monday or other markets across the region.

But have you considered enlisting the help of your local antiques dealers in expanding your collection? Their expertise is deep and their networks are vast!

Texas Tea & Travel writers are, of course, smitten with all things tea-related. One of us began collecting Indian Tree China several years ago. Trips to McKinney, Denton, Salado, Tyler, Waxahachie, and Natchitoches, Louisiana and other charming destinations have led to a wonderfully expanding array of pieces that are called into service when we host a tea.

We have found several pieces at the antiques booth of Becky Watts in Plano’s High Street Antiques. So we let Becky know how pleased we were to find the Indian Tree plates and saucers, and she has since found a few more pieces for us on her treasure hunts.

Your local antique mall is a wonderful resource.

Get to know the dealers who carry your favorite antiques. They love to hear from their customers. If you can’t meet them in person, leave a note at the mall to let them know what you are interested in, and don’t be surprised if you find exactly what you had in mind the next time you visit.

by Elizabeth Cerda

Letters to Santa With the Christmas Holidays approaching, I like to start with a children’s Letter to Santa Tea! I begin by purchasing arts and craft items for the children to make ornaments to take home and a holiday decoration cookie kit. I've purchased Christmas paper with envelopes from the Dollar Store, as well as colors, markers, stickers and stamps for those letters to Santa. The day of the Tea two tables are set up, one for lunch the other for crafts.

Everyone has arrived and we begin making reindeer necklaces, then decorate cookies to be eaten after lunch.

It's now time for the letters! As each child told what they wanted Santa to bring, answers varied from dolls to bikes, but they were all the same, toys! The letters were completed and a trip to the mail box was necessary. What better way to get there than on a hayride! Piled in on a trailer, sitting on hay bales, we rode to place the letters in the mailbox where they would be off to the North Pole, singing Christmas carols all the way and back just as loud as can be.

Lunch was served with sandwiches, goodies and warm cocoa and tea. I had one more surprise in store. We hear bells ringing and in walks Santa carrying a large red bag.

There was cheering and jumping as he had their attention, calling each child by name to be given a small gift! It was a great day, but we didn’t forget the real reason we celebrate Christmas. We celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. With grateful hearts, we thanked the Lord for this wonderful day before ending!

I hope you have a safe and Blessed Season.

From my home to yours!

MENU GEAR UP

FLAGS The Texas flag is often is called the Lone Star Flag because of its single star.

This was also the flag of the Republic of Texas.

A tra dition sin ce 18 86, th e Sta te Fair of Texas ha s som ethin g for ev er yon e.

DR. PEPPER Created in the 1880s in Waco, Texas, Dr. Pepper soda is a Texas tradition.

“I've always maintained you cannot tell anyone what Dr Pepper tastes like because it's so different. It's not an apple, it's not an orange, it's not a strawberry, it's not a root beer, it's not even a cola.

It's a different kind of drink with a unique taste all its own."

— Charles Alderton, inventor

Each year, the Texas State Fair fries up tasty and unique foods. Everything from Fried Beer to Fried Peaches & Cream have been served.

SAVORIES: ~ French Onion Crepettes ~ Corn Pup Bites ~ Jack Rabbit Tea Sammies

1952. In late 2012, Big Tex caught on fire, burning it down to the skeletal frame. He was back greeting guests in no time flat.

PARTY FAVORS

SCONES: Candy Apple Scones with Peach Preserves

PAIRING

Blue ribbon tea fit for Texas?

ELVIS PRETZEL STICKS Elvis Presley performed the fair in 1956.

In 2005, the Fried Peanut Butter, Jelly and Banana Sandwich is introduced.

CENTERPIECES

Why, it’s our BIG TEX ENGLISH BREAKFAST of course. BIG TEX has been the mascot of the fair since

MINI FERRIS WHEEL CENTERPIECES for the cocktail tables and fresh farm arrangements for guests. The 212-foot Texas Star Ferris wheel has been the largest in North America since it debuted in October 1985.

Fall in Love with

East Texas

the Holidays at The W.H. Stark House

Celebrate the holiday season when you visit The W.H. Stark House, a three-story home built in 1894, located in downtown Orange, Texas.

The House will be decorated to showcase the beauty of the holidays from the 1920s. Reflecting a historic Christmas tradition, this year the Queen Anne-style architecture will be adorned with new, softly glowing outdoor lights. As early as 1903, electric lights were used at the House for outdoor decoration. Once inside, view art, original historic objects and delightful decor that highlight the warmth and beauty of the season, including a table setting in the Dining Room which features dinnerware, green Steuben glass and more. Bring friends and family to experience the festive atmosphere much as the W.H. Stark family did in the late 1900s.

While touring the House this December, enjoy a special exhibit in the Tower Room. To Have and To Hold will open December 5, and it is all about love.

Discover the beautiful love story between William Henry and Miriam Stark by viewing their love letters, hearing the story of their courtship, and learning about their 1881 holiday wedding through photos and more shown in this historic setting. Miriam’s wedding dress will be on display and, for the first time, you will have a 360-degree view of the stunning lace dress. Tours are offered Tuesday-Saturday; reservations are needed for groups, and tours are for anyone age 6 or older.

Continue your celebration of the season in Orange by visiting the nearby Stark Museum of Art and Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center. As part of its Christmas tradition, the Museum will have a display of rare Medieval Books of Hours. See four handcrafted manuscripts in the exhibit Bright Beasts. starkmuseum.org. Shangri La will transform into a festive wonderland with thousands of dazzling lights and decorated pathways. On select evenings, visit from 6 - 8 p.m. for Evening Christmas Strolls. shangrilagardens.org. You are invited to enjoy your holiday in Orange, Texas.

Exhibit opens Dec. 5, 2015 Discover a classic love story when you visit The W.H. Stark House this winter.

You’ll see rarely exhibited objects from the 1881 wedding of Miriam Lutcher and W.H. Stark, including the stunning lace Wedding Dress.

Follow their love story through historic photographs, letters and documents.

Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm; last tour at 4pm whstarkhouse.org A program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. ©2015 All Rights Reserved.

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Free and low-cost holiday activities for all ages ending with Candlelight Christmas event at Barrington Living History Farm, featuring Texian frontier festivities.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2015

Christmas-on-the-Brazos features Barrington's Candlelight Christmas The historic Christmas traditions of Texas in the 1800s will transport visitors into the past at the Christmas on the Brazos celebration at the Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site – the very spot “Where Texas Became Texas” – on Saturday, December 12, 2015. Activities include period music, craft making, readings, food samplings and sale of artisan gifts. The day culminates in the park’s popular Candlelight Christmas event at Barrington Living History Farm.

For more information or to make reservations for Candlelight Christmas, contact (936) 878-2214 ext. 246 or barrington.farm@tpwd.texas.gov

WWW.WHERETEXASBECAMETEXAS.ORG

Holiday activities throughout the park, include: • Independence Hall: Christmas stories will be read in the Hall by staff in period clothing at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

• The Star of the Republic Museum will host “make-andtake” period crafts from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• The site’s Visitor Center and Washington Emporium Gift Shop will be open from 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. and will feature merchandise from Texas artisans.

• Barrington Living History Farm will be open for tours.

Regular admission fees will apply.

• Free shuttle is available within the park from 4:30 to 9 p.m.

• Candlelight Christmas at Barrington Farm welcomes its guests into the 1850s and fills their senses with the sights, sounds and smells of yesteryear against the backdrop of a star-filled night sky: smoke and flames from the wood fireplace and bonfire in the field; flickering lanterns and candlelit paths; gunfire and cheers from a rowdy band of Texian revelers.

The Candlelight Christmas evening event consists of guided tours for small groups that each last approximately an hour, with tours leaving every 15 minutes starting at 4:30 p.m.; last tour leaves at 8 p.m. Advance reservations are strongly recommended and will be accepted beginning November 1, 2015. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits.

Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and uneven walking surfaces, since the event will take place throughout the farm.

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texasTtravel.com | Winter 2015

Sandstone Street Bed & Breakfast

Central Texas

100-year old colonial revival home Three upstairs Rooms non-smoking, newly decorated, with period antiques, spa robes, Wi-Fi, HD-TV Full three-course breakfast served in dining room Afternoon Tea served daily

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

“Where southern charm and Texas hospitality reside�

www.sandstonestreetbnb.com

Within walking distance to Courthouse Square, Shopping, Restaurants, Library, Museum, Llano River Available for small events such as Small Weddings, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Birthday Parties, Tea Parties, Card/ Bunco Luncheons

We think He had this in mind all along?

Blisswood Bed & Breakfast

Have afternoon tea at Enchanted Lake, surrounded by beautiful country scenery. Then spend the evening gazing at stars before turning in to your choice of turn-of-the-century Texas Homes.

13300 Lehmann Legacy Lane, Cat Spring,Texas

Hang Out in Huntsthvielle

713-301-3235

for Holidays!

Come enjoy our Downtown Christmas Fair, Christmas Parade, and Journey through Bethlehem on December 5th!

Huntsville is the home of Sam Houston

For overnight accommodations, events and activities visit

huntsvilletexas.com For more Huntsville information: 800.289.0389

Winter 2015 | texasTtravel.com

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THE BEST

Tea Treasures

DECADE IN

TEA

Having tea is such a delightful way to relieve stress. Publisher Lee Q. Garcia has enjoyed many cups of tea across the region, finding serenity through 10 years of cultural travel in the Lone Star State. Lee has showcased Texas' growing love affair with tea and passion for regional tourism. On her journey running a niche firm, Lee has become a tea blender, business consultant and educator. She has hosted twelve Texas Tea Affairs featuring historic organizations (next spring- join her in La Porte). She has received several awards and enjoys partnering business with community work.

TTT: What were your thoughts when the magazine was started in 2005?

LQG: When we first started, I was researching a tea room concept. Many shops that had been supported by their families and TTT: What have you learned from the church communities were retiring in past 10 years? our Houston area. Then I thought, "If LQG: I feel it’s important to be inclusive. the niche tea industry had a marketing I have a great team that I love and tool to reach the general public, these trust. Texas Tea & Travel is not geared lovely eateries would be bustling with toward one person. We have discovered customers." I am a woman who feels that tea shops, boutiques and antique better with a cuppa in my hands and galleries are destinations. has a passion for chicken salad and Modern tea lovers are discovering our quiche. region with fresh eyes: traveling to our TTT: Since the publication is a reflection festivals, small museums, local shops and artful communities. Since Texas of Lee Q. Garcia, tell us about her. is larger than France, we have amazing LQG: I’m always a Christian girl at offerings for our locals and arriving heart. My friends and family are my guests. everything. They influence all that I do.

I admire strong women; my mother is my rock and inspiration. She believes in TTT: There are so many incredible following your dreams and creating new stories of people on various journeys, how do you decide on your subjects? paths in life. I’m completely open with LQG: Every day we are learning — I every client and reader. Their journeys love to interview and meet those who are inspiring. We are all steeped in are dedicated to small business. Each beauty.

conversation is a teachable moment.

We illuminate true leaders that share their successes and proclaim their failures. They are heroes in my book. It's inspiring that most journeys of faith have led powerful women to soar in business and work.

TTT: What’s the most important advice you have for women who want to have their own business?

LQG: It is important to create a clear brand identity. You really need to know your clients and how they think. It’s important that you do your research, and understand the value of marketing yourself and your products. Surround yourself with good people. You need to trust your instincts. Make all major decisions and believe in your growth.

The Texas public will support your efforts, your hard work will pay off.

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TEA&TRAVEL

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ENJOY

POST MASTER: PLEASE EXPEDITE TIME SENSITIVE MATERIALS

Great as liaday special ho T TEA GIF! for her

SIPPING with DELIGHT

Spectacular tables and high tea service in the heart of the Gulf Coast await your arrival at the 2016 Texas Tea Affair.

Celebrating local women and Texas hospitality on Sunday, April 17 at the Sylvan Beach Pavilion in La Porte from 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.

TE XA S Tea Affair Sylvan Beach Pavilion

AFTERNOON TEA

VINTAGE FASHION SHOW

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S DOOR PRIZES

Bene The Tur fits Point S ning helter

APRI L 17, 2016 Highlighting The City of La Porte TEA&TRAVEL

Advanced Sale Tickets on 1 r e b Decem

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