Tea time habits - as promised in Princess Izzy

Tea is such a civilized custom. You can tell that from reading British mysteries. The detective might be chasing the worst bad guy in history, but she still takes time out for tea. (As opposed to American detectives, who take time out to get drunk or have sex – neither of which is nearly as sophisticated.)

After my first trip to London, I came back determined to have tea each and every day. I imagined myself sitting at my dingy newspaper office desk – I did not rate high enough for a cubicle even – pouring myself a nice cuppa from an elegant pot, covered in a hand-crafted cozy.

This small break would not only calm my nerves, but project an image of utter calm, of strength in the face of adversity. “She must be so organized and pulled together,” my coworkers would say, as I smugly sipped tea at my desk – apparently oblivious to the approaching deadline. “She must be really efficient … and possibly British.”

I read detailed descriptions of the finer points of tea brewing, tea pouring and tea-time etiquette. (I understand that it is considered, at least in some circles, gauche to talk about anything but the most frivolous and light-hearted topics.)

I have not, sadly, applied any of what I have learned. I have, at least, started drinking more tea, which does manage to both invigorate the soul and soothe the nerves. Here are my tips for a daily cup of American tea – they aren’t elegant or lovely and they will not produce the “perfect cup of tea.” But it beats coffee from the vending machine, any day.

1. Find mug. No need to worry about its size or shape. (It would be nice if it were clean.) If it carries an ad for a long-forgotten political candidate or a tire company – so much the better.
2. Fill mug with water from faucet.
3. Microwave water for two minutes. (Time may vary by strength of oven and your own personal preference.)
4. Throw tea bag in. (I am partial to Celestial Seasonings. If you ever get the chance to tour the Celestial Seasoning factory Boulder, Colo., you should. You’ll never again look at mint the same way!)
5. (Optional) After a couple of minutes take tea bag out. I confess I often skip this step because I find that leaving the bag in is a highly effective way of brewing a cup that gradually increases in strength. (Also I’m lazy.) There are not many things in life that naturally increase in strength. You should enjoy those that do!

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