Without a saucer, tea is just another beverage.

I just found this post in my drafts.   

Thank you Grandma for being the meaning of home that we will always carry in our hearts.

You will be missed every single day.

My recent visit with Grandma Dot reminded me of one of those "stop and smell the roses" "one day at a time, one thing at a time" emails that we've all sighed at while skimming through, nodding along, mentally taking note, and forwarding to those we think may need reminding as we had. One message in particular implores us to light the decorative candle and use the good china...we deserve fancy.

Tea with my grandmother is always served in a cup with matching saucer "so there's a place to set the tea bag" she said simply.  This is the same set she has had since I can remember, it's basic stoneware with a simple pattern but it is beautiful and feels so good in your hands. I'm quite often holding a flimsy paper cup.  At home and the office I am a Keurig girl, no muss no fuss and voila instant tea.  I started to realize that I gave up a bit of pampering for "progress" as I watched Grandma Dot place the bags gently our cups and slowly pour hot water over the top. We sat whiled the tea leaves seeped.  We chatted and we watched the water darken.  We sipped to check if it was ready a time or two and then let the warmth from our cups fill us up.  I couldn't help being reminded of the idea of 'Chicken Soup for the Soul'...this was tea for our souls and a moment in time I hope never to forget.

You may already have that special cup and saucer tucked away in a china cabinet or wrapped in a box along with other family heirlooms.  If so, it is time to set it free.  If not, then it's time to do some shopping.  Find something that you really love, not something that's merely functional.

Don't forget the saucer, it's the most important part. ;)

Please share pictures with a little caption about your vessel of calm.

I found this single cup at my local thrift shop.  On a table filled with tea cups covered in busy floral patterns, it looked out of place (because it belonged with me).

Thank you for showing us the way Grandma.