Confessions of a Tea Addict...

I'm a tea addict. Yes, it's true. I blame it on an old landlord of mine who used to import tea from around the world and was something of a connosieur. Tea is a way of life for me. I start every day (except weekends, which are reserved for coffee) with a bowl of matcha. Matcha is powdered green tea of the highest order, and is the tea of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. The rich flavour, colour and preparation of matcha is a great way to start the day. Plus, it does give a nice lift without the jitters or irritation of coffee!

Some of my other green favorites are Japanese Sencha, Gyokuro, and Genmai-cha. I also enjoy Chinese Dragon Well, Spring Snail, and Peony White Needle (premium white tea).

As far as black (fermented teas) are concerned, I love a nice cup of English Breakfast, Orange Pekoe, Earl Grey, Jasmine, richly spiced Indian Chai, anything...you name it!

Then there is Rooibos (roy-bus), which is South African Redbush - a bush with needles, that when fermented, make a wonderful, relaxing brew.

For me, Tea is a relaxation/conversation drink that transcends indulgent. Further, it is a drink, that when brewed loose-leaf, brings one closer to our own attachment to this earth. Tea's beginnings are steeped in the history of mankind. There is something so attractive, theraputic and basic about throwing dried leaves into hot water. In today's world, many of us can enjoy every day what only the ultra rich of the past could afford - a cup of tea.

Just wait until I get started on coffee...but that's for another time!