Peppermint Damask & Gunpowder

"It was one of those March days

when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold:

when it is summer in the light,

and winter in the shade."

Charles Dickens

Early this month our local weatherman announced that this would be a colder than usual March. I think he was right. It's been chilly and cold. At least the sun shines most days and that brings a measure of cheer. It also helps to choose a cheerful teacup! My teacup today is a Royal Albert from the Old Country Roses collection. It's called Peppermint Damask, and I enjoy its minty greenness. Tendrils of wispy green leaves and a faint lattice design are sprinkled with yellow, pink, and red roses. It is classic elegance with a touch of whimsy. Today's tea is a classic green gunpowder from Guangdong province, China. It is a mild tea with a hint of smokiness that adds a distinctness that's enjoyed. Each leaf is hand-rolled into tiny pellets which unfurl into full, dark greenness. Classically delicious.

Speaking of green tea, have you read this study released earlier this week? In it researchers found that the more green tea a person drank, the more it reduced the risk of suffering a stroke. Now that's a good deal!