I love hearing from friends and family about unique and unusual tea experiences. Whether they are related to childhood tea parties or tea room visits as an adult, I enjoy hearing how tea has created warm memories for so many people.
After reading my book Talking Tea, my good friend Carol shared this story about her visit to a tea room in Chicago along with a few great memories of enjoying tea.
From Carol Throckmorton, Coralville, IA:
One of my favorite tea room adventures happened when my son and daughter-in-law invited me to their home in Morton Grove, IL to celebrate my 70th birthday. I knew the day was also focused on my granddaughter, whose birthday is the day before mine (July 25.) Before I arrived, Ben told me, “Bring some dressy clothes,” but he didn’t say why so I had no idea what to expect.
On Sunday afternoon, all five of us dressed up and Ben drove us to the Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago for afternoon tea. Oh, my gosh, was that ever a special time. The décor was beautiful, with lots of sparkling chandeliers, a pianist, and huge bouquets of flowers.
Once we were seated at a cozy table, a waiter brought a wonderful variety of teas along with a three-tiered cake stand brimming with delicious treats. There were finger sandwiches, cakes, scones, fine chocolates and other delicious candies.
We spent at least three hours there, sipping, eating, and chatting in this lovely environment. I didn’t want to leave! It was indeed a very special birthday!
Special Tea Settings
I have learned how to appreciate and enjoy tea in a lot of settings. I’ve been to England several times for Throckmorton Heritage Tours. It’s an understatement to say we drank a lot of tea! …at every meal and often during an afternoon tea time. The Brits do love their tea!
For several years, I enjoyed watching the TV program Downton Abbey, and always got a laugh whenever there was a family crisis, and someone would say, “I’ll ring for tea.”
Judy, I also fondly remember the lovely afternoon tea you had in your home a few years ago. While we enjoyed your scrumptious goodies, I also learned a lot about tea that day.
Now your Talking Tea book has opened a new world for me to explore and integrate more tea experiences into my life. Thank you for helping me appreciate tea!
