Holiday Happy…Tea

The annual Yaya white elephant features gifts so extraordinaire we can’t decide what to steal. We get over it and take home what we like best. Oh–need a Yaya primer? The Yayas are a group of badass chicks–much like the ones in the book. This year our greatest gift was a surprise visit from our far away doll, leading to more than usual wine consumption, champagne and gift stealing.

Another little something marks a Yaya gathering. It’s called the “Happy.” Happies are small gifts brought to celebrations and minglings just to make everyone smile. Happies should not be confused with “Prizes.” Prizes are outright gifts brought to a fellow Yaya ‘cuz we thought of her, ‘cuz she’s the hostess (we are a mannerly group after all) or “just because.” The difference between a Happy and a Prize? A happy is something for everyone and a prize is something special intended for one.
Use this information as you like.

Driving home, I’m struck by thought. Happies are so holiday appropriate–perhaps we should share. Happies work because they are shared joy. Let’s share Happies of the ethereal type during these next days. Share them with your special peeps. That’s their strength. Spread that around.

First up?

“At Christmas, or Hannukah, tea is compulsory. Relatives are optional.” –Robert Godden.

So let’s get brewing.

1. Bring freshly drawn, cold water to a boil in a kettle.
2. When water is at a gentle boil, remove from heat.
3. Pour hot water into teapot and teacups and pour off. By warming the cups in this way, the water temperature will be more consistent.
4. Add the proper amount of tea leaves per person to the pot.
5. Allow water to cool to the proper temperature, if necessary, and pour over the tea leaves.
6. Steep for the proper length of time.
7. Strain completely into another teapot or directly into the serving cups.

What not to forget? Your loveliest cups, saucers and pot. Oh and a tea cozy. Oh and some cookies or scones with jam. And a cucumber sandwich. Unlike most holiday happiness–this one can be enjoyed with friends, or alone.

Take the edge off. The relatives will be here soon enough.