Why Tea?

The art of Tea is sadly dying, or even worse, being bastardized to the point of misrecognition. But there is something almost magical about sharing a cup of tea with friend. It calms, sooths, refreshes and relaxes. It encourages conversation and gossip.
Tea with friends could be as simple as tea and simple cookies, or as elaborate as high tea with an exhausting number of courses.

I personally, have some tea rules;

*Loose tea should be brewed in teapots. No teabags, please.
*Teapots should be warmed before brewing.
*Use cold fresh water for brewing and make sure it has reached a boil.
*Tea should be served in porcelain teacups and saucers. Mugs are for coffee and gin.
*Iced tea should not be served @ a tea party.
*Jeans should not be worn to a tea party.
*Milk, sugar and lemon should be offered, but all 3 should not be used. Never mix milk and lemon.