While we have been using herbs in our cooking and baking since we opened the Smith-Byrd House, we have only dabbled in the use of tea as an alternative. One of the catalysts in utilizing tea more than just an oddity in our cooking was a church ice cream social. We were instructed to bring ice cream one Sunday evening. Guessing that most would stick to the more traditional flavors (chocolate, vanilla etc) we decided to venture out. We chose "Green Almond Cookies" as our flavor. It is a green tea with almonds and coconut. To say that it was a hit, would be understating it. Not having any left in the ice cream freezer was a clear indication of its popularity.
Branching out we have made Creme Brulee using a chocolate-infused tea, a white cake flavored with our own blend, consisting of earl grey, vanilla, lavender, and rose petals. It looks really great to sprinkle the rose petals and lavender buds on top of the icing.
Thus begins our journey to fuse tea with cooking.

Today, we are hosting a book signing event for a local author. It's a nice way to bring exposure to other things happening in our area as well as showcase what we do to a totally different audience. Realizing that we can use our space for more than just afternoon tea is in itself rewarding, let alone providing a new venue for someone in the community. While it takes a bit of creativity, balance and timing to blend our traditional tea with other events, we see our we can utilize the space for more than just tea.
Then to expand to hosting private dinners, baby showers, bridal showers and luncheons, and now even an occasional brunch, can give our guests a new experience in an old house.
Given the hectic and haried pace of the present day, any opportunity to provide a quiet, relaxing environment certainly seems welcoming in whatever presentation it comes.

First Timers, that is, those individuals that are coming to our tea room is their first time to experience any tea room, let alone, ours. They really are an adventurous group of people, coming to a strange place, not sure if the food will be good, or the service will even be acceptable. We strive hard to greet them pleasantly, again, realizing that they are venturing into unknown territory. It's not all without some certainty.Some are coming because a friend has told them about us, others have seen our website, and willing to take the chance.
For all those that step into our tea room, THANK YOU. Without you, we couldn't get to see the excitement of your first bite or sip of tea. You make it exciting. It is funny just how many we have converted into tea drinkers. Several have come with a friend telling us that they don't drink tea, and yet, come away with a new desire to try

Today didn't quite feel like spring and yet it was nice to get out to do some yard work. Last weekend, 6 rose bushes were planted and today we pruned up a few of the older rose bushes. All are doing well. Can't wait to see the blooms.