Since I was a little girl tea time was always quite special. Mother would pick out individually, for each of my sisters and myself, a special teacup, beautiful flowers with gilt edges & her fine china and sterling silverware. In her special rose floral teapot would brew a divine blend of black tea scented with cinnamon and oranges. She would prepare delectable treats to go with our cuppa yummy tea. Tiny sandwiches without the crust would appear on fine china & crystal plates. They would be filled with cucumber, salmon or even chocolate. My personal favorite! She would also include some homemade muffins or scones and sometimes a cookie.
When we would travel, my parents sought after the best coffee, tea and pastries. On a quaint island off the coast of Canada called Victoria is the grand hotel, The Empress. We would be dressed to the nines. I recall my little black velvet dress with my white lace ruffle socks perfectly folded at my ankles and my shiny patent leather Mary Janes. Sitting in the Conservatory of that fine hotel, little ladie's, my sisters and I would enjoy sipping on the finest Earl Grey's or English Breakfast's, tasting the best scones with creamery butter and lemon curd. This is the foundation for the name of our family coffee and tea house. All inspired by our vacations in Canada and Washington. What a joy it is to share our passion with our guests. My dear, humble brother in law loving roasts our coffee to perfection. My sister has quite a catch. I graciously enjoy purchasing and sharing the teas. My personal forte.
Since I was a child, I wanted to own a restaurant where people enjoyed coming to. I finally realized this morning as I was sipping on my Manjushree Estate Assam that my dream has finally come true. At 38, I have realized that it is never too late to really step back and look at one's life to really acknowledge that dreams really do come true. No matter what roads we choose, God is there guiding us to the special place he wants us to be. I now know that RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW is EXACTLY where HE wants me to be.
