D I S C O U N T T I C K E T S N O W AVA I L A B L E AT G A LV E S T O N H I S T O RY. O R G The 1875 Julius and Elizabeth Ruhl House
This year’s tour, featuring nine homes, six of which have never been on tour, also hosts numerous special events and spotlights new island construction with specially selected additional homes both weekends.
DON’T MISS
The Grand Preview! Antique Appraisals and Home Preview Evening - May 2 John Staub Lecture May 3 – Join Stephen Fox for a private tour and lecture on the architecture of John Staub History on Tap Dinners Chef Jason Hanin - May 3 Chef Mary Bass - May 10 Sunday Jazz Brunch May 11 at the 1880 Garten Verein
The Robert Knox, Sr. and Pearl Wallis Knox Foundation
Lee Q. Garcia Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Miller Editor, North Texas Contributors: Elizabeth Cerda Heather Clary Elizabeth Escobedo Michelle Lindsey Kaitlin Miller Paula Myers Janet Pool Penny Ward Photo Credits: Istock.com 123rf.com
contents 10 GETAWAYS
DALLAS & National Advertising Coordinator: Stephanie Miller 214-534-4865 HOUSTON & Quilting/Craft Advertising Coordinator: Michelle Lindsey 281-814-1736
Texas Charm and Big City Culture await you in Granbury (pg. 14), the Houmas House (pg. 20), Midland and Hotel Settles (pg. 28) and Old Town Spring (pg.39).
17 TASTY BITES
Find recipes for fresh summer delights: blackberry pie (pg.16), mini tea cakes (pg.24) and summer spinach salad (pg. 26).
39 TEA
To become a part of our upcoming issue, please call TEA-955-1767 or email: info@teaintexas.com Published Quarterly By: TEA IN TEXAS MEDIA, LLC 800 Wilcrest Rd., #145 Houston, Texas 77042 Sales: sales@teaintexas.com Website: teaintexas.com Phone: 832-955-1767 Fax: 214-988-9367 Yearly Subscriptions are $19.95. Additional or back issues are available online or by calling the TEA in TEXAS office for $4.95 a copy. Tea in Texas copyrighted 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without our written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited.
Japanese tea rituals are changing (pg. 22). Taking Tea in Texas to Japan (pg. 36), then it's toddler teatime (pg. 42).
Please note that Tea in Texas Media, LLC has made reasonable efforts to verify the information with in. Editorial and advertising do not assume responsibility for false or misleading information. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the views of the publisher. We encourage you to support our local businesses and say you heard about them from Tea in Texas Magazine.
COMMUNIT Y giving back in big ways!
45 QUILTING
Here are summer projects for machine-free fun (pg. 30), then off to see rare quilts on display in McKinney (pg. 12) and LaGrange (pg. 47).
Please Recycle This Magazine. Pass It Along
10% of TEAinTEXAS are proudly donated to Women’s Ministries and Civic Groups that promote awareness and fellowship in the Texas region.
By submitting images/articles to Tea in Texas Media, LLC you grant the magazine the rights to said material for any commercial use without further consideration.
member TEXAS BED & BREAKFAST ASSOCIATION
Houston - Gulf Coast texas welcome Texas Welcome
letter from the editor
Summer 2014
Raise Your Cups!
Hello Friends, As we prepare for Tea in Texas’ Fifth Annual Tea Affair, I am reflecting on the many ways tea spills over into other aspects of life. The refinement of enjoying a cup of tea in a lovely setting with pleasant company is worth repeating. Today we find tea, tea accessories and tea symbols in art, stationery, entertaining and hospitality, and home décor. I recently redecorated the powder room in our house, and I was thrilled to use Thibaut Wallpaper’s “Tea House” print. The Thibaut Design House dates back to 1886, and Thibaut offers an entire book of wallpapers themed “Tea House.” The Chinoiserie print we chose for our room is graced with lovely tea houses in a garden setting.
Tea in Texas has found many examples of this connection between tea and antiques/ décor, and our readers are equally fascinated with both. So Tea in Texas’ Tea Affair, to be held June 8 at the Heard Craig Center for the Arts, will focus on Decorating with Antiques. If you are in or anywhere near the Dallas area, I hope you will join us for Tea Affair (get your tickets at www.teaintexas.com). It is a wonderful opportunity to have an unforgettable afternoon tea with those who share your passion for tea, the arts, and antiques. The event features a fabulous afternoon tea, a lecture, a tour of the beautiful Heard Craig House, a silent auction benefiting City House, and the opportunity to hand-craft your own tea blend so you can continue the merriment of Tea Affair at home. We hope to see you at Tea Affair in June!
Join us on lin e-
tea tra velers love to sha re! TEAinTEXAS
Until we meet for tea,
Stephanie
TEAinTEXAS
Stephanie Miller Editor, North Texas
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Tell our advertisers tha t you hea rd about them in TEAinTEXAS!
STAY N THE KNOW Cover Photo
Photo by Jim Blanchard A tea table set amidst the natural beauty of Houmas House in Darrow, Louisiana, with the plantation’s distinctive garcionniere in the background. Houmas House is one of the lovely jewels in the crown of Louisiana Plantation Country.
EVENTS-SPECIALS-OFFERS in TEXAS Online Newsletter
STAY LOCAL at TEAinTEXAS.COM Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
5
Mom is my
inspiration FLASH CHILL TEA MAKER $28 The perfect gift for any tea lover! Brew your hot tea right in the 2 quart pitcher. Then if you want iced tea, add ice and cold water, shake and you have instant ice tea. The Spice & Tea Exchange, Grapvine spiceandtea.com
Make Mother's Day
Special
TOKYO MILK at the Whistle Stop Express, Tomball Find irresistibly daring, handcrafted fragrances and lotions in exquisite bottles that are works of art unto themselves. 281-255-2455
MOKSHA 100% Cotton Summer Tunics $26 Gurgle Iced Tea Pitcher $40 BEST SELLER The Teapot Depot, Highlands 281-426-3670
HAVE A SUMMER DATE WITH MOM Show mom your love with tickets to view historic homes in Galveston this May. Then it's off to a tea room for lunch, making lasting memories. galvestonhistory.org
ur Win Fo ts icke Free T r on ou ge a ook P Faceb texas #teain
ANTIQUE SILVER Mom will love a new piece for her serving collection. Silver Aparagus Tongs, $$ Antiques on Memorial, Houston 281-920-9424 THE BEACH QUILT by Holly Chamberlin Life has a pattern, if you just know where to look‌Set in a picturesque Maine beach town, bestselling author Holly Chamberlin’s heartwarming and insightful novel delves into the choices and changes faced by two families over the course of one eventful summer.
5th Daas
presents the
North Texas News
The Scoop
Learn About Decorating with Antiques
If you are fascinated with antiques but need a little guidance on incorporating them into your decor, you won’t want to miss Tea in Texas’ Fifth Annual Tea Affair.
“Antiques can be integrated beautifully into the design of traditional homes, as well as more modern spaces,” Margaret shares. Her presentation will share examples and inspiration and she will answer questions from the audience. The event, held at the Heard Craig Center for the Arts in McKinney on June 8 from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., will also feature a sumptuous afternoon tea, tour of the Heard-Craig House, silent auction and vintage teacup exchange. Margaret is truly a luminary of the Dallas design world. She was selected as one of the “Best Designers in Dallas” by D Home magazine nine times, and has received multiple awards from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) since 1995. Her inspired work has appeared in the pages of such publications as Traditional Home, Better Homes & Gardens, Texas Home & Living, the Dallas Morning-News, and HGTV magazine among others. “We are delighted to have such an accomplished designer as Margaret to share her expertise about how we can make antiques part of the design scheme of our homes,” said Tea in Texas Publisher Lee Q. Garcia. “Tea in Texas’ readers are fascinated with antiques and historic homes, and they will be interested in how they can give their homes the sense of timelessness characteristic of fine antiques and classic architecture.” Learn more about Tea Affair at www.teaintexas.com.
SAVE $5 Code: INFUSE
Heard-Craig Center for the Arts McKinney Come for Tea!
A lovely Sunday afternoon celebrating Texas City House, a shelter for local youth.
teaintexas.com
afternoon tea make your own blend cooking demos
832-955-1767
Experience Tea on the Square in Denton at
The Chestnut Tree Teahouse and Bistro
Lunch served Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Brunch served Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
www.chestnuttearoom.com • (940) 591-9475 107 West Hickory Street, Denton, Texas 76201
private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, weekend brunch
Noted Dallas Designer Margaret Chambers, RID, ASID, of Chambers Interiors & Associates, Inc. will discuss “Creating Timeless Interiors with Antiques.”
June 8th, 2014
private parties, afternoon tea by reservation, holiday high tea
at Tea in Texas’ Tea Affair
Tea air
Vintage Chic from
The Chic Cherie
Classic Vintage for the Contemporary Lady A complete selection of vintage from the golden age of fashion. Shop our fine line of: • Lady's accessories • Designer Bags • Vintage jewelry • Fabulous furs • Men's Clothes and accessories
Contact Marilyn Harris and Regina Wittenberg
Inside High Street Antique Mall 800 North Central Exp Plano, TX 75074 972-509-7878 vintagechicherie@gmail.com www.chiccherieboutique.com
We buy Vintage clothes, jewelry, furs and accessories.
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Dallas - North Texas
TEAinTEXAS
Dallas - North Texas
texas & louisiana
CALENDAR
SHOW
Turn a Victorian brush into a bracelet!
Sat
Upcycling the Unexpected & U Repurposing and upcyclinggiving new life to beautiful old heirlooms and collectibles. Presented
by the team at Buttons & Bows, Etc. Frisco
Saturday 1:00 PM
Sun
The Thrill of Collecting Classic Vintage Sewing Machines The history, repair and hunt for vintage sewing machines.
Presented by Allison Bayer, a certified repair person and long time quilter. Plano
Sunday 1:00 PM.
41 AntiqueShow th
September 20-21, 2014
AntiqueEleganceShow.com
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Every Tuesday, Chocolate Angel, Richardson Every Thursday, Chocolate Angel at High Street, Plano Book your seat for a fashion show featuring contemporary fashions, every Tuesday at Chocolate Angel in Richardson. chocolateangel.com Second Saturdays: An Evening of Art, Music and Wine, McKinney Explore downtown art galleries, great local and regional music and enjoy dinner at one of McKinney’s outstanding eateries. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Last Saturday of each month Last Saturday Gallery Night at Granbury Square Granbury art galleries and the Yeats-Duke 1858 Working Museum host this free art walk the last Saturday of the month, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meet the artist events, opening receptions, demonstrations, hors d’oeuvres, wine and music. Third Weekend of the Month Romance Weekend, Granbury Holiday Celebrations May 24-26 and July 4 Enjoy a romantic weekend in beautiful Granbury the third weekend of the month. Check with hotels to learn more about their special romance weekend packages. Memorial Day Celebration takes place May 24-26 and includes arts, crafts and food as well as entertainment. The 40th Annual 4th of July Celebration on July 4, from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. includes a parade, arts, crafts, food and games, a fabulous fireworks show over Lake Granbury, and patriotic performances a the Opera House and the former Granbury Live Theatre. Granburytx.com May 1 – 4 Jefferson, Texas 67th Annual Historical Pilgrimage “Jefferson’s Golden Era” The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club invites you to enjoy fabulous gardens in bloom and lovely architecture that make the gracious city of Jefferson a jewel in the Lone Star State’s crown. Tour historic churches, enjoy theater, Civil War reenactments, an Old South Ball, a ladies’ tea at the famed Excelsior House Hotel, and more. jeffersonpilgrimage.com May 1-4, May 29 – June 1, July 3 – 6, July 31 – August 3 Canton’s First Monday Trade Days Explore a world of antiques, home décor, clothing and gifts at Canton’s First Monday Trade Days. While in town, visit the charming Square. At the First Monday Grounds, there are more than 7,000 vendor spaces, providing an amazing treasure hunt. 1-877-462-7467 firstmonday@cantontex.com
May 17 Collin County Farm Museum’s Model T’ea Party and Open House An unforgettable tea event featuring free rides in a Model T, crafts and games and a tea party, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Collin County Farm Museum, 7117 County Road 166, McKinney. 972-548-4792 co.collin.tx.us/parks/myers/farm_museum.jsp May 21-24 New Orleans Wine and Food Experience Enjoy all of your favorite New Orleans dishes. The event spotlights the city’s best restaurants and wines from around the world. nowfe.com
June 6 66th Season of Summer Mummers Opens, Midland This is a cherished Summer tradition at the historic Yucca Theatre. This popular summer production is a fundraiser for the Midland Community Theatre. summermummers.com June 8 5th Annual Dallas Tea Affair Heard Craig Center for the Arts, McKinney, 1-5 pm This unique afternoon tea and silent auction benefits the TEXAS CITY HOUSE offering support and shelter to local Texas youth children in Plano, McKinney and Frisco. Each year, the Dallas Tea Affair provides an afternoon of education, cooking demos and tea service to the Greater Dallas community who enjoys the fineries of tea and fellowship. teaintexas.com $69 SAVE $5 Use promo code: INFUSE June 14 McKinney Garden Club Garden Tour “Heirloom Gardens” Step inside some of McKinney’s most distinguished gardens and enjoy a remarkable day in McKinney. Hours are 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tickets, $20; proceeds benefit civic beautification. mckinneygardenclub.org July 18-19 Natchitoches/NSU Folklife Festival Multi-cultural celebration of heritage and folk art, with food, music, demos and exhibits, at Prather Coliseum. nsula.edu/folklife July 31 – August 3 New Orleans Antiques Forum Presented by the Historic New Orleans Collection, this annual event began in 2008 and includes educational talks and tours. It is designed to appeal to all antique enthusiasts, from those who are interested in learning a little more, to the experienced collector. 504-523-4662 hnoc.com
June 6 – 8 Girls Getaway Steel Magnolias Style Natchitoches, LA "Remember what Daddy always says—an ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure! " “I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful, than a lifetime of nothing special.” Spend the weekend with the girls in beautiful, historic Natchitoches, Louisiana which is a fabulous escape any time of year, with plantation homes, abundant art and natural beauty, B and Bs, fabulous food and a quaint downtown. For this special Girls Getaway weekend, enjoy movie night, brunch, trolley rides, wine tasting, garden tours, shopping and more. The theme is inspired by the classic film “Steel Magnolias,” which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. While in town, guests enjoy visiting the landmarks made famous by the movie. L e a r n m o r e a t w w w . NatchitochesHDBA.org.
August 23 16th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea and Fundraiser Includes a fabulous tea, live and silent auctions, a pink carpet salute to survivors, inspiring entertainment and education, and a hat contest! Tickets: $40 in advance ($25 for children). Funds benefit the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Division. DFW Airport Marriott South. Email breastcancertea@aol.com 817-723-3095 breastcancertea.org
UPCOMING ISSUE Annual Quilting Issue
FALL 2014 Quilting Success Crafting Fun For Advertising Information, contact your sales representative or call 832-955-1767 editor@teaintexas.com
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
9
Dallas - North Texas
May 3 17th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival Shreveport, Louisiana Featuring events like the annual Chihuahua Challenge, live music, traditional Mexican dance troupes, fabulous food and more, the event runs from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and raises funds for scholarships. shreveportcincodemayo.com
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Annual Breast Cancer Awareness
Tea and
Saturday, August 23, 2014
D/FW Airport Marriott South
Edwardian Fashion Inspiration
on the Menu at Chocolate Angel
Edwardian-era fashions reigned on the runway of a Chic Cherie fashion show/ afternoon tea at Chocolate Angel at High Street in Plano recently.
$40 per PERSON Sponsorship, Underwriting and Table Hosting opportunities available. Donations for the Auctions and Raffle are gladly accepted! PLEASE CONTACT US breastcancertea@aol.com Telephone: 817-723-3095 www.breastcancertea.org This is a fundraising event benefitting the
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S BREAST CANCER DIVISION
Donation(s) may be tax deductible. Please check with you tax advisor.
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
“In the Mood: The Fashions of Romance” presented fashions from the 40s, 50s and 60s, but began with styles inspired by the PBS series “Downton Abbey.” These pieces were also shown at a style show at the Antique Elegance Show in Richardson. Presented by Steven Porterfield of the Cat’s Meow in Midland and Plano’s The Chic Cherie, the Chocolate Angel show featured spectacular Edwardian hats adorned with feathers, and luxurious ensembles from the Edwardian Era (1901-1910) into the 1920s. Porterfield, an expert on vintage clothing, drew many oohs and aahs as he described the sumptuous attire that helps light up the screen on “Downton Abbey.” It was a gracious era in which ladies certainly appreciated the dramatic impact of a fabulous hat. Porterfield recalled that the largest Edwardian hat he ever purchased measured 36 inches across. Now, that’s a dramatic fashion statement.
North Texas - Ft Worth
IN THE SEASON OF RENEWAL, REFRESH YOUR COMMITMENT TO GOOD HEALTH
Be Aware and Proactive:
Early Detection of Breast Cancer Saves Lives The statistics say 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and the experts say that early detection is our best hope of surviving breast cancer. Speaking to a group of more than 450 women at the 15th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea in Fort Worth last summer, Dr. Alison L. Laidley, a breast surgeon with Texas Breast Specialists in Dallas, shared some encouraging words for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis and for women who are concerned about their risks for developing breast cancer. “What you can do is stay proactive,” She said. “Early detection is the best prevention.” So a monthly breast self-examination is a must, as well as regular mammography (recommended once a year for women over 40) and an annual exam by your physician. “If you feel something that is not right and persists for more than a month, get an ultrasound or mammogram. If you feel something and the mammogram shows that it is fine, don’t stop there, get an ultrasound,” she advised. On the subject of what causes breast cancer, Dr. Laidley said the experts are not certain. “We do not know why patients get it. I am hopeful that (in the future) we will know.” Doctors do know that the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and others being discovered increase a woman’s chances of developing breast cancer, but there is no evidence that deodorant, underwire bras, miscarriages, abortions or caffeine cause breast cancer, she said.Statistics from the American Cancer Society show that breast cancer incidence rates began declining in 2000, after having increased for the previous two decades. Additionally, while breast cancer is the second-leading cause of death in women (lung cancer is first), death rates from breast cancer have been declining since 1989, and this is believed to be the result of early detection and improved awareness, as well as treatment advances. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, Dr. Laidley said, prepare yourself for your journey and face it with hope. The chances of survival are very good, especially when breast cancer is detected in the earlier stages (stages 0, I and 2) she said. And it is important for the patient to take the time to research and explore her options in getting prepared for her journey. The American Cancer Society projected that 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer would be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2013, and 64,640 new cases of carcinoma in situ would be diagnosed. CIS is non-invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer, according to information on the American Cancer Society’s website. For more information, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org, or call their information line at 1-800-ACS-2345. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the Breast Cancer Awareness Organization is a group that works to educate people about early detection and raise awareness about breast cancer, and provide information, support and encouragement. Each August, the group hosts the Breast Cancer Awareness Tea to raise funds. Mark your calendar for the 16th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea on August 23, 2014. Learn more at www.breastcancertea. org or call 817-723-3095.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO REDUCE YOUR RISKS INCLUDE:
• • • • • •
Do not smoke. Limit yourself to one alcoholic drink a day. Exercise. This helps you maintain your ideal weight, and reduces stress which can negatively affect your immune system. Maintain a healthy diet and weight. Breastfeed your baby. Avoid environmental toxins.
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Dallas - North Texas
“My joy is making something special for you to enjoy at tea time.”
Always handmade just for you! And visit Grandma @ TEAtitudes.com for Teapots, Trinket Boxes and Inspirational Gifts
The Scoop
North Texas News
Get the Scoop on Historic Quilts in McKinney McKinney Quilter and Historian Carolyn Miller is sharing her knowledge and expertise with quilters at Happiness is Quilting in McKinney. Carolyn, an avid collector, presents at the shop monthly, and her lectures are beautifully illustrated with pieces from her spectacular collection of quilts.
GrandmaRae.com and TEAtitudes.com or call 973-664-0986
Your Getaway Destination!
Recently, Carolyn spoke on the topic of Civil War reproduction quilts. Highlights included a pieced block that dates to 1865 and was purchased at the Paducah, Kentucky Quilt Show, and a complex quilt top that dates to 1865, which Carolyn has begun reproducing using current reproduction fabrics. Even the backs of these quilts are fabulous, as illustrated in the quilt back that dates to 1865. Tea in Texas loves the way the beautiful reproduction fabrics are honoring tradition and keeping America’s history alive in the visual medium of fabrics.
888-649-8499
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
See for yourself when Carolyn presents, on the third Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at Happiness is Quilting. Sometimes, the shop also adds an afternoon session. The fee is $10. Topics for May and June will be Mystery Quilts and 1830s quilts. Learn more at www.happinessisquilting.com.
Granbury - North Texas
Plan a Romantic Weekend in Beautiful
Small city ambiance in the historic square and the scenic natural beauty of Lake Granbury make Granbury a popular weekend destination, known for its food and wine, lovely shops, and cultural events.
If it has been a while since you enjoyed a romantic escape, Granbury awaits as a relaxing romantic retreat that is close to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, but feels a world away.
Founded in 1860, the city was named for Confederate Gen. Hiram B. Granbury and is graced with distinctive architecture and many historic landmarks. Granbury is located just 35 miles southwest of Fort Worth. For your romantic weekend in Granbury, choose from one of the many distinctive Bed and Breakfasts or hotels in town. Whether you’re looking for an elegant lakeside retreat, a quiet garden escape, a step back in time, or a secluded guesthouse, Granbury has the perfect place for the two of you to rekindle your romance and relax. During the day, take in the history and beauty of the downtown Square, and relax at a charming café or coffee shop. Spend an afternoon reconnecting over a leisurely game of golf, or enjoy the scenery at one of the city’s parks, or a stroll on the boardwalk. Dining options range from fine dining establishments to lakeside grills and burger joints, to charming cafes featuring downhome cooking and regional specialties. In the evening, enjoy an intimate dinner at one of the restaurants in the culinary district, then stroll through the historic downtown Square as you make your way to a show or concert, or simply admire the beauty of a sunset over Lake Granbury. Performances at Granbury’s renowned Opera House and the Summer Concert Series, “Saturday Sounds on the Square,” are among the cultural highlights.
The Square is one of Granbury’s top attractions. Also notable is the Hood Country Jail and Historical Museum, where you can learn about Davy Crockett’s descendants. The Granbury Theatre Company is a well-regarded production company, and it is presenting “Driving Miss Daisy,” from May 23–June 15, and “1776” from June 26 –July 6. You can also catch a movie at the vintage Brazos Drive-In, which dates to 1952. You might just want to take another day to relax and take in the scenery of Lake Granbury. “Granbury’s romantic ambience is rooted in its historic character, natural beauty and event programming,” said Steve Dieterichs, the City’s Communications and Marketing Director. “Many of the events throughout the year in Granbury tied right in to the experience a couple can expect on any given stay at one of our Bed and Breakfasts or lakeside lodgings.” For accommodations, choices range from hotels located on Lake Granbury to properties right on the Square. Learn more about the hotels and B and Bs at www.granburytx.com, or call the Visitor’s Center at 817-573-5548. For your Summer Romance Getaway, you may want to schedule your visit to coincide with Granbury’s Memorial Day Celebration May 24-26, or the Fourth of July Celebration July 4-6.
Photos by enVision Creative Services
Dallas - North Texas
The Scoop
North Texas News
BLACKBERRY MADNESS
Bestselling Author Joanne Fluke Visits with Texas Fans Joanne Fluke’s culinary mysteries keep readers coming back for more, and Texas fans were delighted to meet with the New York Times bestselling author in March. Tea in Texas caught up with Joanne at a Fresh Fiction event at Chocolate Angel in West Plano where Joanne discussed her new book, “Blackberry Pie Murder,” and guests enjoyed a fabulous tea with scrumptious desserts. Joanne also visited with fans in Austin, Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. Joanne’s mysteries feature Minnesota bake shop owner Hannah Swensen and her original recipes.
salt 1/4 teaspoon n top your pie ca u Yo : te lated) sugar No Hannah’s umble. If you 3/4 cup white (granu Cr ch en Fr or t with a top crus only one ack it down ble, you’ll need urpose flour (p choose the crum zen piecrust thaw on 1/4 cup all-p re it) su ea e fro p when you m piecrust. Let on ust. If using in the cu cr m tto bo ur yo the counter for piecrust a ground nutmeg sen the second 1/4 teaspoon se) a top crust, loo is best, of cour it. nd aw fore you th (freshly grou bit in its pan be – ound cinnamon inch deep dish poon fresh gr 8d) as n ol te ze s 2 it’ 1/ fro 2 en of Package from your s its flavor wh ake your own cinnamon lose m r (o s st ru ec pi /4 cup, ) salted butter (1 favorite recipe 1/2 stick cold d) poun whole fresh 2 ounces, 1/8 3 heaping cups n blackberries) ze fro r {o s rie blackber
FOR FRESH BLACKBERR IES, rinse them, pat them dry with a paper towel, and put them in a larg e bowl. FOR FROZEN BERRIES, just measure them and put them in the bowl. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F., rack in the middle position.
Mix the sugar, flour, cinnam on, nutmeg, and salt together in a small bowl. Dump the small bow l with the dry ingredients on top of the
P CRUST: down FOR THE TO piecrust upside Tip the second emove the pan, es. R over the berri m it to fit e crust, and tri the th t ou th oo sm of s ge ed e rimp th the pie pan.C fingers or ur yo ith w er crusts togeth e tines of gether with th press them to the top in t. Cut 4 slits a fork held fla your as m ea st r the crust to let ou pie bakes.
blackberries and toss them to coat the berries. Place a layer of coated blackberries in the bottom of the pan lined with piecrus t. (You want a nice foundation for the rest of the berries.) Place the res t of the coated berries in the pie pan . There should be enough to mound the top slightly. (These ber ries will fill in and settle during baking. ) If there are leftover dry ingr edients, just sprinkle them on top. Cut the cold butter into 8 pieces. Place the pieces on top of the blackberries. ENCH FOR THE FR : LE B M U R C
pose flour 1 cup all-pur sure it) when you mea n w do (pack it butter 1/2 cup cold d) nces, 1/4 poun (1 stick, 4 ou k it down n sugar (pac 1/2 cup brow sure it) when you mea
a to the bowl of Put the flour in blade l ee st e th r with food processo attached.
Cut the stick of butter into 8 pieces and ad d them to the bowl. Cover w Bake at 350 F˚ ith the 1/2 cup for 50 to 60 m firmly-packed of inut (mine took 55 brown sugar. minutes), or un es Process with the steel til the top crust or th blade in an on e French Cru -and-off motion until th mble is golden brown e resulting mix and ture is in uniform small are tender whe the blackberries pieces. n pierced with a knife. Cool your pie Remove the m on a cold stov ixture from th e bu or rner a w e ire fo processor and od rack. This pie place it in a bo can be served warm with ice wl. Pat handfuls cream or swee of the French tened whipped crea Crumble in a mound ov m, at room te er your pie. C mperature, or cold right out ut several slits near the of the refrigera top of the pie tor. to let out the steam as it bakes. Enjoy!
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 14
Visit MurderSheBaked.com for more Joanne Fluke recipes. kensingtonbooks.com/joannefluke
2014 Philanthropy
Giving Back TEAinTEXAS salutes
Texas women that are making a vital difference in 2014.
Janis Ross President, CAMEO When Janis and local artists of the Houston Potters Guild Shop began thinking about starting a charitable organization in 2006, they decided to call it CAMEO [the Clay Arts Museum and Educational Organization] since they wanted to
Virginia Cook President, Dallas Women's Forum Providing excellent service to her clients, community and industry has inspired Virginia Cook throughout a distinguished career that spans four decades. The first woman president of the MetroTex Association and Texas
Judy Dierker Founder, Judy Dierker Holiday Market
It was serendipity or a divine nudge, but while visiting a friend in Austin, Judy attended their weekend church craft show. It was a lovely event with participation by most of the congregation. What impressed her was the camaraderie that had been so much a part of making this event
Teresa Keenan Executive Director, Texas City House Teresa Keenan has been City House’s executive director since 2010. She spent 30 years in corporate America and was attracted to volunteering and raising money for charity through her love of cycling and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
make it as inclusive as possible. The tag line became "For all to know the joy of clay". Janis, a devoted british potter, feels clay has always been a gift to the entire human race. Clay is found everywhere on earth, and humans have used it at all times and in all places to create things of utility and beauty. Janis leads the thriving organization in three annual art events: The Texas
Teapot Tournament displaying the excellence of makers from around the world; The Emerging Artists Show guiding students in the various steps that go to entering a professional gallery show; and the “Work of the Hand” Collectors Show displaying private collections of fine crafts along with clay in the Houston area.
Association of Realtors, Virginia is currently serving as president of the Dallas Woman’s Forum, a non-profit philanthropic organization serving the community and restoring its historic headquarters, the Alexander Mansion at 4607 Ross Avenue. The organization, founded in 1906, organized the Texas Anthropological Society and established the first
museum, which was located the Southern Methodist University campus. Today, Forum initiatives include supporting the nearby Birdie Alexander Elementary School. Most recently, the Forum donated a baby grand piano, eight violas, six cellos and multiple sets of rhythm instruments to start an orchestra program at the school.
successful. It occurred to Judy that she could easily do something like this at her church, Foundry United Methodist. The idea of the fellowship that could be a part of making an event like this happen inspired her. A collaborative effort brought forth the first holiday market in 2000, and each year the market has grown and expanded to become a shopping extravaganza for the Northwest
Houston community with over a hundred vendors, a silent auction, and Tea Room. Although the church now coordinates the market, Judy graciously volunteers each year. The biggest benefactor is CyHope, which is a nonprofit established to make life better for students as well as mission groups supported by Foundry.
It motivated her to look at making a transition into nonprofits, either something with children or within the arts. Ms. Keenan loves what she does and how it rewards her every day. “I no longer fill shareholders’ pockets; I get to feed my soul.” For over 25 years, City House has been providing emergency shelter and transitional residential services
to children and young adults of Collin County who are in need due to abuse, neglect or homelessness. What started as a four-bed shelter in 1988 has grown into a four-home, 36-bed, multi-faceted agency that has provided over 6,000 youth with emergency shelter, transitional living, life skills and counseling.
Dallas - North Texas
The Spice & Tea Exchange®of Fort Worth and Grapevine, TX invites you to
The Scoop
North Texas News
Come in and experience the finest teas the world has to offer! 319 S. Main street Grapevine, TX 76051 140 E Exchange Ave, Ste #112, Ft Worth, TX 76164 1-877-spice-51
McKinney Garden Club Invites You to Its Garden Tour Tea Room • Bed & Breakfast • Gift Shop JUST STEPS FROM HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN GRAPEVINE, COME JOIN US FOR A DELICIOUS MENU AND LOVELY GIFTS.
The ladies of the McKinney Garden Club are no shrinking violets when it comes to taking care of club business. Hard at work planning their summer Garden Tour, the club convened for its February meeting/luncheon despite frigid temperatures that caused the cancellations of many North Texas events. “We are a determined bunch,” says Garden Tour Publicity Chair Donna Stracener. “And the city had sanded our roads. We had good attendance despite weather concerns.”
Bed & Breakfast Now Open!
Available for Parties, Showers & Special Luncheons
Lunch served Mon-Sat 11:00 to 3:00pm Afternoon & High Tea served daily by reservation
RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED 817.488.8850 216 W Wall Street • Historic Grapevine
www.BeatitudesGifts.com
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With the scheduled speaker unable to attend, a Master Gardener substituted and provided a fascinating program, followed by an exquisite luncheon with more than a dozen hostesses. Flower arrangements like the one above brought a little sunshine on a dreary weather day, and these flowers are only a preview of what you will see when the club hosts its “Heirloom Gardens” Garden Tour on Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more at www. mckinneygardenclub.org.
s e h c o t i h c t a N LOUISIANA
Upcoming Events May 3-4
Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival
May 3
Natchitoches Fishing Expo
May 10
Amanda Shaw in Concert
May 17
Cane River Music Festival
May 24
Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show
June 6-8
Girls Getaway Weekend Event
Best Travel Destination in Louisiana for 2014 by CNN Travel
Home of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum
800-259-1714 • www.Natchitoches.com
Heart of Cajun Country
oumas House Invites You to Tea in Grand Plantation Style by Stephanie Miller Providing afternoon tea as it would have been served on a Louisiana Plantation 200 years ago is the inspiration of The Carriage House at Houmas House Plantation.
Houmas House Owner Kevin Kelly. Plantation families enjoyed a highly curated life with the finest homes, gardens, furnishings, food, and entertainment.
Set amid 38 acres of lush gardens, this elegant, light-filled space on Houmas House’s majestic grounds was created from architectural plans drawn long ago by famed New Orleans architect James Gallier for the plantation that was once dubbed “The Sugar Palace.”
Kevin explains that he took the Gallier drawings for the exterior of the structure, and used Waterford Castle in Ireland as the inspiration for the interior of the Carriage House. The result is an enchanting tea destination.
The Carriage House has the feeling of a conservatory, overlooking a lovely fountain and courtyard, and afternoon tea here is further distinguished by sumptuous tea fare by awardwinning Chef Jeremy Langlois. His menus help bring to life the joie de vivre that infused plantation life when wealthy planters built these exquisite monuments in the 1800s. "We are trying to allow our guests to live the life of a Sugar Baron. They built these places and they lived very lavishly,” says
Chef Langlois’ menus pay homage to the local flavors and the traditions that shaped this historic destination on the east bank of the Mississippi River in the heart of Plantation Country. Served on Houmas House’s own china with the plantation’s insignia and a royal blue band, delicacies such as Cajun Caviar with crème fraiche are on the sandwich course. Canapés include duck confit salad with pickled quail eggs, smoked salmon wrapped in asparagus, and poached shrimp with herb cream cheese and baby tomatoes.
The successful New Orleans businessman came in with a vision when he acquired this noted historic property that dates back to the late 1700s and, in the mid-1800s was the largest producer of sugar in the country. The mansion, completed in 1828, was the setting for the movie “Hush … Hush Sweet Charlotte” starring Bette Davis.
Teas are from Mariage Freres, Fortnum and Mason and other fine purveyors, and guests choose from a variety of options.
Kevin was about to turn 50 and was looking for an endeavor that would fulfill his creative spirit. He took on the challenge of returning Houma’s House to the legendary grandeur that earned its reputation as “Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road.”
Scones, served with lemon curd and Devonshire cream, are tailored to customers’ preference. “There’s always quite a bit of discussion about the proper scones,” Kevin notes. “Some people want different varieties, such as apple or strawberry, and some people want traditional.” Kevin, who bought Houmas House in 2003 and has opened three restaurants on the property, says afternoon tea attracts a very special client, whether it is an individual, a ladies group, or a corporate party. “It is amazing to me how everyone has their own thoughts on how a proper tea should be.” “One lady called to book a tea for 24 and she said, ‘I’m very picky. This is how we want it done, and I am going to judge you so you better get it right.’” But for Kevin, providing a customized experience that will delight the hostess is part of the joy of offering afternoon tea.
“I wanted to do something artistic and design-oriented,” he said. Houmas House allows him to bring the history of Louisiana plantations back to life on a stage that invites visitors to see it, feel it and taste it. “People have very high expectations, and we do our best to meet them.” The home can be enjoyed with a tour. Overnight guests enjoy luxurious accommodations at the property’s 21 cottages. Café Burnside offers outstanding lunch fare and Latil’s Landing is noted for its elegant gourmet dining. The Turtle Bar is a small and intimate room that, like the restaurants, attracts a loyal local following. And of course, a tea traveler’s trip to Plantation Country would not be complete without enjoying Houmas House’s afternoon tea! Learn more at www.houmashouse.com. For tea reservations, call 225-473-9380 or make a weekend of it and really get to know it by booking a stay in one of the luxurious cottages.
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Houston - Gulf Coast
Chef Langlois has put his own inspired spin on the classic cucumber sandwich, a fixture of afternoon tea. “Before this, I never understood cucumber sandwiches,” Kevin shares. “But Jeremy slices them paper thin, then layers them on the bread to look like a flower, and serves them on his special garden herb spread.”
Houston - Gulf Coast Heart of Cajun Country
Louisiana
Experience Tea at a
lantation!
P
Houmas House
Plantation and Gardens Houmas House is the Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road, a grand antebellum estate set amidst 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds and a majestic Live Oak alley. Known as “The Sugar Palace,” and dating to the mid-1700s, Houmas House captures Southern splendor with 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork.
TeaDestination
You can experience tea like they did in the glory days of Louisiana plantations. The Tea House overlooks a lovely courtyard. You’ll enjoy five fabulous courses in style! Featuring fine loose teas and unforgettable tea fare.
Houmas House is located in Plantation Country, on the River Road. 20 miles southeast of Baton Rouge, between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Overnight accommodations available.
40136 Highway 942 Darrow, Louisiana 70725 www.houmashouse.com 225-473-9380
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the traveling tea master By Heather Clary
Tea consumption and gatherings continue to grow rapidly in the United States, but this is not the same in Japan. With the mass development and convenience of corner coffee shops in Japan, tea ceremonies and tea usage are fading. At a recent Japanese Festival, I assisted with the Japanese Tea Ceremony presentations. Guests of all ages and nationalities were present. In my conversations with guests from Japan, I was commended on my studies in tea. During the conversation, these guests were saddened by their youth not continuing with their country’s culture and history of tea. My studies of Japanese Tea Ceremony follow the Urasenke House in Kyoto, Japan. There are locations all over the world including locations of study in Houston and Dallas. The studies of Japanese Tea Ceremonies are not a weekend course but a life time of learning. There are over two-hundred d i f f e r e n t Japanese Tea Ceremony presentations. Most people are Heather Clary and daughter Morgan amazed that the in Japanese Kimono. ceremonies are almost silent and are composed of strict routines. The tea that is used is a finely, powdered, green tea called –Matcha. The tea utensils are often the best that the host has to offer; normally not every day used items. Tea started out for me as a hobby. I have now added to my hobby, a future instructor of tea in order to pass along tea culture and history from my studies to others.
Heather Clary is a Certified Tea Master. She is a native Houstonian, Texas Aggie and a single mother of three children. Her interests include Japanese tea ceremonies, tea blending, traveling, quilting, and running.
Countless stories live within the walls and grounds of our plantations which have held watch over the Mississippi for centuries. Tours deep into the swamps will fuel the imagination and spirit for adventure. Plan your history-making adventure today and have your own stories to tell. Arthur Matherne’s Airboat Tours
Houmas House Plantation & Gardens
/NolaPlantations 866.204.7782 VisitNOPC.com
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Heart Dallas of-Cajun NorthCountry Texas
Ormond Plantation
Houston - Gulf Coast Dallas - North Texas
y d a re he t t a a Te At the read y by Paula Myers
Into My Garden
Paula Myers is a recent empty nester who enjoys nothing better than a good cuppa tea and a “sitdown”. She also loves living in Houston and exploring the many opportunities for tea her city affords – often with a book beside her.
Tea Room
Café and Catering Ser ving lunch 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday We also offer: Afternoon Tea Service Children’s Tea Parties Bridal Luncheon Baby Showers Private Parties
1017 E. 15th Street Historic Downtown Plano 469-360-5821 IntoMyGarden.com
for summ er tea s!
A Tea at the Ready strategy means welcoming a friend or two for a spur of the moment cuppa with a bit of flair. The recipe I am sharing today is a last minute treat that looks anything but last minute. Consider trying them for one or all of these occasions: a Mother’s Day tea for your mom or aunt, a new mom or grandmother, or someone who has been like a mother to you; to celebrate a graduation; to thank a veteran on Memorial Day or the Fourth of July; a dull summer day that needs a magic touch. With these in your freezer you’ll be at the ready all the time.
MINI TEA CAKES Bake a white cake mix in a jelly roll pan. Cool completely and freeze. Before serving, cut 2 small rounds for each cake you need. Spread lemon curd on half the rounds. Top with another cake circle and garnish with a dab of whipped cream, a lemon drop and a mint spring. For variety, use raspberry jam and a real or candy berry. For children, a chocolate spread with a mini chocolate chip on top is adorable.
Waxahachie’s Home Tour Celebrates Storybook Charm The 46th Annual Waxahachie Gingerbread Trail gives visitors a once-a-year chance to visit some of the cities’ loveliest historic homes in a weekend festival that also offers and arts and crafts fair, antique market, and an invitation for artists to paint outdoors. It’s all happening June 7-8, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both days. Before the turn of the century and into the 1920s, Waxahachie and Ellis County were among the most influential areas of the state, and the wealth resulted in some exceptional structures.
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Q&A
by Penny Ward
For vacation time this summer, my friends and I are planning several short road trips. Do you have any advice or ideas on packing, traveling, etc.? Take to the open road with an attitude of gratitude and fun, and you will have a wonderful trip.
Lock your car and keep everything out of sight. I was recently the victim of a “smash-and-grab”. The thieves got away with a tote bag of notebooks that had no monetary value, yet I was out a considerable amount of money to repair the damage to my car window. Don’t tempt them with anything. Lock everything in the trunk to be on the safe side. BE A COURTEOUS DRIVER Leave road rage at home. After all, it is a vacation! Don’t text while driving. Know the laws pertaining to cell phone use in the area. In some places, it is against the law to even talk on the phone while driving. SHARING TRAVEL EXPENSES Discuss and decide up front how you will share gas, hotel, food, tips, etc. It would be too lengthy to go into every tip scenario here, but you can find handy reference charts online or you can download an app on your phone. BEING A GUEST Whether you are staying in a hotel, bed & breakfast, or someone’s home, always be considerate of others. Respect their property; don’t leave your room trashed. Pick up after yourself so your personal items are not invading the personal space of someone else. If you are a guest in someone’s home, offer to help with meals and clean-up. Respect the time and schedule of others. If everyone is up and about by 8:00 am, don’t sleep until noon. AND FINALLY When visiting any of our many delicious tearooms, remember that pinkies should be down, sugar goes in before lemon or milk, and milk goes in last! Take to the open road with an attitude of gratitude and fun, and you will have a wonderful trip!
PACKING The most important thing you can pack (and unpack first!) is good manners. There is a Proverb that says, “Civility costs nothing.” Good manners cost you nothing more than putting yourself after others. Bad manners, on the other hand, can cost you a great deal. Traveling in close quarters can be trying at times. Remember to be kind and patient with your travel mates. This should insure that you arrive home after the trip still friends! Otherwise, don’t over-pack thereby taking more than your share of the trunk space.. Leave enough room in the trunk for everyone to be able to bring what they need.
For more travel tips, refer to the July/August 2012 and 2013 issues on Tea in Texas.com. Happy summer travels!
Penny Ward is a Certified Etiquette Instructor and Certified Tea & Etiquette Instructor. She is a speaker, event planner, and the owner of It’s an Affair of the Heart. She is also the founder and director of Houston Academy of Etiquette and Protocol, and can be contacted at www. pennyward.com.
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Tea Etuquette Q&A
TeaEtiquette
BE SAFE Have your automobile inspected and serviced before you leave. Map out the route before you leave home so you don’t have to do this while driving.
Houston - Gulf Coast Cooking with Tea
Cooking
Elizabeth Escobedo is a culinary instructor, food writer and tea lover. She teaches at Central Market, Lake Austin Spa, and private events. Elizabeth loves to incorporate tea as a surprise ingredient in many of her recipes. She resides in Houston, Texas, and on her free time, she enjoys travelling, organic gardening, and enjoying teatime with family and friends.
withTEA by Elizabeth Escobedo
When summer rolls around, I like to retreat to my favorite spa for a little rest and relaxation before the start of the busy school year. I mainly look forward to sunshine, sipping iced tea by the pool, and enjoying the spa cuisine that is such an integral part of my experience. Most people define spa cuisine as using fresh, natural, and seasonal ingredients. I especially love the creative salads so perfectly dressed with unique vinaigrettes and crunchy toppings. When I return home, I look forward to re-creating
my spa experience by preparing the salads enjoyed during my relaxing get-away. An easy way to enhance the flavor of your salad is to add tea as a surprise ingredient. Also, I like to influse vinegars with tea so that I can have them on hand for fast and fabulous salads any time of the day. An artfully prepared salad with your favorite tea can pack a lot of flavor, nutrition, and with the right combination, can be a full meal in itself. Add a touch of sunshine, and you can create the spa cuisine experience right there in your own kitchen.
Summer Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Strawberry-Green Tea Vinaigrette Yield: 6 servings 1 bag (5 ounces) baby spinach 1 pint strawberries, stemmed and cut into slices 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted 2 tablespoons Strawberry-Green Tea vinegar, recipe follows Salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil Topping: 2 teaspoons of your favorite green tea leaves (same ones used for vinegar) for added flavor and crunch. *You can add grilled chicken to make it a main dish salad To assemble salad: 1. In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons strawberry vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Whisk in the olive oil. 2. In a large bowl, toss together the spinach, strawberries, cheese, and pecans. 3. Drizzle some of the dressing on top and toss; the leaves of the spinach should just be lightly coated with the dressing. Place any remaining dressing in a small bowl to pass around the table. Divide evenly among 6 plates. Garnish with a few tea leaves. Strawberry-Green Tea Vinegar: 1/2 cup mashed strawberries 1 teaspoon sugar 2 teaspoons loose green tea [Try organic strawberry orange green tea @ mchughtea.com] 1/4 cup white vinegar To make vinegar: In a small bowl, mix together the strawberries, sugar, green tea and vinegar. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Strain and set aside; discard strawberries. Measure 2 tablespoons for the salad dressing; cover and refrigerate the remainder for another use.
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The Hotel Settles is a fascinating historic hotel that stood mysterious and empty in the West Texas city of Big Spring for decades.
Welk, Gregory Peck, Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Agnes Du Pont of the Du Pont family, and Dr. William Mayo, Founder of the Mayo Clinic.
Traveling through Big Spring, one would notice the majestic art deco building rising above the landscape.. Traveling through Big Spring, one would notice the majestic art deco building rising above the landscape and wonder what it must have been like in its glory days. Built in 1929 (opened in 1930) by Big Spring residents W. R. and Lillian Settles, who had discovered oil on their ranch, it was the only full service hotel between El Paso and Dallas. It was designed by West Texas architect Davis S. Castle and is said to have cost $500,000 to build, quite a sum at the time.
The Hotel Settles features 65 rooms, a fabulous lobby and opulent Grand Ballroom. The Pharmacy Bar and Parlor was once a real pharmacy. The Settles Grill offers Texas comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located 30 miles east of Midland, The Hotel Settles a convenient stopping point
for visitors to many West Texas cities. It is also a great day trip, as our friends at the Midland Contemporary Study Club can attest. The Study Club recently visited the hotel to learn more about the history of this Grand Dame and enjoy a lovely ladies luncheon. They found the hospitality to be representative of warm and welcoming West Texas style. Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center
Big-City Amenities
The Hotel Settles closed in May, 1980, after the downtown in the oil industry. It contents were auctioned off and the doors closed on an era of West Texas history. Recently though, The Hotel Settles has been brought back to life and restored to its original grandeur, ready to “reclaim its place as the social center of West Texas” and give visitors a feeling of what travel was like here in the early part of the 20th century. Brint Ryan, a Dallas resident and Big Spring native, bought the hotel in 2006. His recent renovations used the building’s original blueprints to “bring back the stylish details that evoke the charm, craftsmanship and architectural details of a bygone era.” The hotel’s notable guests from that era have included President Herbert Hoover, President Lyndon B. Johnson, Lawrence
Small-Town Hospitality Join us for these eVents & More: May 16-17: Texas Thunder Music Festival June 6: Summer Mummers 66th Season Opens July 4: Star Spangled Salute July 25-27: Tall City Blues Fest conVention & Visitors Bureau July 30: Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers August 7-9: Rock The Desert (800) 624-6435 | www.VisitMidlandtexas.coM
Midland
Feel the Energy
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Central Texas MidlandWest Texas
Experience West Texas History and Grandeur at the Hotel Settles
Midland- West Texas
by Kaitlin Miller
West Texas Charm and Big City Culture Await in Midland Amidst the tumbleweeds and flat desert of West Texas is the booming town of Midland, which is home to so much more than pump jacks and jackalopes. The “Tall City” features many wonderful oases from the summer heat, including brimming antique shops, museums, historic homes and riotous local theater productions. What began as a railroad midpoint between Fort Worth and El Paso on the Texas and Pacific Railway has become a hub of culture and industry since the discovery of oil in the Permian Basin with the Santa Rita No. 1 well in 1923. Although the economy has fluctuated through the years along with oil prices, the boom of the 21st century is still in full swing, recently making the town one of the nation’s fastest-growing metro areas. Midland’s unique blend of cowboy culture, small-town charm and growing metropolitan style is worth taking some time to explore. The historic Z. Taylor Brown-Sara Dorsey Medallion Home, the city’s oldest restored home, is a great place to begin your time in Midland. We set up a tour by appointment and got to tour the house with Diann Dow, the great-granddaughter of rancher Z. Taylor Brown and granddaughter of Sara Dorsey. She had lovely anecdotes and insight about the home to share, especially since she lived in it as a girl before it became a historic landmark.
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The home, ordered from a Sear’s catalogue and built in 1900, has been lovingly restored and still features some original items from the house, including the fireplaces, chairs and the winepress that Brown used to make his own wine from the grapes grown in the backyard. The home provides a snapshot of how turn-of-the-century design merged with the rugged ranching necessities of early Midland life. The delightful original rainbow glass window, gingerbread trim and family china contrast the fact that the home was constructed using horseshoe nails and the original hitching post out front unintentionally took root and grew into a handsome sprawling Mulberry tree. After your tour, head to Aldridge Gardens’ Café at the Gardens, a great lunch destination to beat the summer heat. Tucked inside the largest nursery in Midland, the bubbling fountain and lush flowers and greenery surrounding the café é provide a cool and relaxing spot to enjoy fresh and inventive soups, salads, sandwiches, quiche and crepes. For antiquing, The Cat’s Meow is Midland’s treasure trove, boasting a 4,000-square-foot showroom of vintage clothing, hats and costume jewelry as well as glassware and china. Owner Steven Porterfield, an expert in textiles, has appeared on PBS’s “Antiques Roadshow,” and hosts the annual Antique Elegance show north of Dallas in Richardson. Some of his finds have even appeared on period television shows such as “Mad Men,” “Boardwalk Empire” and “Downtown Abbey”.
The Museum of the Southwest is a true gem housed inside the Turner Mansion, the historic 1934 home of Fred and Juliette Turner. The Museum features more than 40,000 works of art and archaeological items as well as a separate Children’s Museum, planetarium and sculpture garden. The spacious grounds provide a perfect spot for hosting casual Summer Sunday lawn concerts and Septemberfest, an annual art festival. End your day in Midland with a truly unique West Texas tradition by attending the 66th-annual Summer Mummers, held in the historic downtown Yucca Theater. The vintage venue, which was heralded as “the biggest and finest theatre this side of Ft. Worth” at its opening in 1929, was saved from demolition in 1981 and painstakingly restored to its former art deco elegance. The Gothic revival facade, gilded Assyrian winged bulls, colorful scrolled columns and stenciled lotus flower lamps of this Texas Historic Landmark provide the perfect backdrop for the yearly vaudeville melodrama and olio. Don’t wear your best clothing though – it’s a Summer Mummers’ tradition for the audience to throw buttery fistfuls of popcorn throughout the evening, especially while booing the maniacal, mustached villain or belting “The Yellow Rose of Texas.” Summer popcorn sales for Summer Mummers, which runs from June 7 to August 30 this year, can rival the yearly popcorn sales of the local movie theaters. You might find a kernel or two in your hair the next morning, but it’s worth it for the stunning surroundings and sidesplitting laughs. If you can’t visit Midland this summer, there are still plenty of attractions and events throughout the year, including the Commemorative Air Force Air Show and concerts and productions at the newly constructed, $81 million Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center.
Kaitlin Miller is a West Texas native and graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She now works as a freelance editor. She enjoys sports, blogging, baking and musical theater. When she’s not writing, she’s trying to keep up with her Australian Shepherd puppy.
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Summertime Quilting
Continue Quilting on your Summer Vacation!
fabric to the prescribed sizes and shapes and follow the stitching instructions in each pattern. You’ll be amazed at how easy it really is! Who wouldn’t love working on a luscious, soft, colorful wool applique project as you catch your breath each evening at your hotel? Wool applique is a very forgiving technique used in making mostly smaller projects. Table mats, wall hangings, candle mats, etc. are the perfect size for wool work. Because of the cost of wool, a little goes a long way. A simple buttonhole stitch can be used to sew the patches onto the background fabric (wool, flannel or cotton). As your hand stitching skills improve, you can further embellish these patches with additional decorative embroidery stiches and glorious thread colors. We are talking ART here!
What about the increasing popularity of hand embroidered quilts? Many quilt patterns by designer Meg Hawkey of By Rose Ann Cook Crabapple Hill 2003 Design by Susan C. Druding Studio, show how to tint your background fabric with Crayola What’s a quilter to do crayons before stitching when she realizes that her beautiful embroidery she will be traveling designs. It’s easy and to her destination and the effort is worth it! may not have access Who wouldn’t want to to her sewing machine play with a fresh box of and stash of fabric? crayons again anyway? Portable quilting projects are the answer! Many quilting For details on this techniques lend themselves to the solution of the portability technique, visit www. dilemma. Applique blocks that have been prepared Hexie Quilt Hand-Stitched crabapplehillstudio.com, with the patches already glued or pinned to the at Quilter's Emporium. click on Other Stuff, then background fabric are ideal for hand stitching C Commonly Asked Questions. Meg shares great tips and tricks on long car trips or waiting in an airport. for wonderful results. Be sure to visit your local quilt shop to see the latest in her pattern designs! There are so many ways to applique (the process of applying cut shapes to So you see, it doesn’t matter if your vacation will last 2 days a background fabric). Needle turn, or 2 weeks. There is a lot you can do to feed your inner back-basting, freezer paper are quilter. Plan a road trip, visit new quilt shops, take a class, some wonderful current applique or sign up for a quilting cruise! You can continue to enjoy techniques. Have you tried hand your fabric obsession while you charge those all-important piecing your pre-cut quilt blocks? emotional batteries. But most importantly, you’ll have a great time! I hear many of you saying “Not in MY lifetime Rose Ann!” Believe me, Rose Ann Cook is the owner of Quilter’s I hear you! But check out Jinny Beyer’s Emporium Quilt Shop in the Houston/ website (www.jinnybeyer.com) and view Stafford area. The store celebrates its her hand piecing video. Sometimes really 10th year in 2014 and has been featured complicated blocks can be easily sewn without as a Top 10 Shop in the Fall 2010 issue of the use of a machine. Mountain Patchwork patterns have Quilt Sampler magazine. Rose Ann is the terrific instructions for double-stitching (hand piecing and author of “Czecherboard Quilts-Stories quilting at the same time). Their block patterns make the from My Father’s Family”. perfect portable project for your trip. Just cut your scraps of
Few things cause the heart to go pitter patter like the words “summer vacation”!
sy rte ou
leroskelley.typepad.c om amil / of c s i m pli fy
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Putting The Pieces Together... Beautiful quilting fabric, kits, books, patterns, sewing machines, quilting cruises, classes and more. Classes for quilting, embroidery, crazy quilting and more are available. Helpful and friendly staff.
Every Friday – Sunday Community Flea Market of Granbury Arts and crafts, home-grown produce and much more. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., 41101 Glen Rose Highway.
NEWLY RELEASED Czecherboard Quilts by Rose Ann Cook
Every Saturday Farmer’s Market Chestnut Square, McKinney Enjoy produce, gourmet treats, crafts and more, 8 a.m. to noon at 315 Chestnut Street in McKinney. Trolley tours of the historic district. 972-562-8790 chestnutsquare.org
Chosen as a Top 10 Quilt Shop by Better Homes and Gardens Quilt Sampler magazine (Fall 2010)
Third Saturday -Art Gumbo Community Market at Houmas House, Darrow, Louisiana Arts and crafts from local artisans, under the majestic oak trees at Houmas House Plantation , 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. the third Saturday of every month. Make a reservation for tea at the Tea House at Houmas House. 225-473-9380 houmashouse.com
Open 7 days a week Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Through July 12 Navajo Weaving: Tradition and Trade Stark Museum of Art, Orange Exhibit highlights major regional styles of Navajo weaving, features more than 35 exquisite Navajo weavings, textiles and rugs. The Stark Museum of Art houses one of the nation’s most significant collections of American Western art. 712 Green Avenue, Orange, Texas. 409-886-2787 starkmuseum.org Saturdays and Sundays through May 26 Scarborough Renaissance Festival, Waxahachie Enjoy 20 stages of entertainment, 200 shoppes featuring handcrafted, one-of-a-kind items, games of skill, food and beverage in a recreated 16th-century English village. May 3 - 4 Cottonwood Art Festival, Richardson Held in Cottonwood Park in Richardson, includes a juried art show and festival. 10 a.m. - p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday. cottonwoodartfestival.com
(281) 491-0016, (800) 395-7794 quiltersemporium.com 11925 Southwest Freeway, Suite 11 Stafford, TX 77477 (just outside of Houston)
8th Biennial Quilt Show
TODAY’S TREASURES TOMORROW’S HEIRLOOMS
presented by
Vereins Quilt Guild of Fredericksburg
August 29-30, 2014 Friday 10am-7pm Saturday 10am-5pm
May 24 Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show A craft show featuring unique, hand-crafted pottery, woodworking, jewelry, clothing, homemade jams, spices and more. More than 100 vendors. Admission is free. Natchitoches Events Center. natchitoches.com. August 29 – 30 8th Biennial Vereins Quilt Guild Show “Today’s Treasures Tomorrow’s Heirlooms” Fredericksburg Show will be held at the Fredericksburg United Methodist Church, 1800 N. Llano, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday. The show features bed turning, a tea room, quilt appraisals by appointment, vendors, scissor sharpening, silent auction and boutique. The lovely raffle quilt “Quilts: A world of Beauty” won first place in group quilts at the 2013 International Quilt Association in Houston. artially funded by the Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance. vereinsquiltguild.com
New Location:
Fredericksburg United Methodist Church 1800 N. Llano (Hwy 16 N) Fredericksburg, Texas
vereinsquiltguild.com
A World of Beauty
First Place Winner, Group Quilts
2013 Judged Show of the International Quilt Festival, Houston
The Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance generously provided a grant to support the Vereins Quilt Guild Show. Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Quilt- North CornerTexas Dallas
quilting & craft CALENDAR
Houston - Gulf Coast
central & gulf coast CALENDAR May 2-4, 10–11 40th Annual Historic Homes Tour, Galveston Tour opens the doors to numerous, privately owned, historic island homes. This tour, which features nine homes, six of which have never been on tour, also hosts numerous special events and spotlights new island construction with specially selected additional homes. 409-765-3405 galvestonhistory.org May 3–11 “Mother’s Day Tea” Crossroads Collection Tea Room, Old Town Spring Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Special Afternoon Tea. All mothers will be presented with a special gift. Seating is limited please make your reservations early. 281-528-6550 Crossroadscollection.com May 3 Beauty from the Inside Out: Wellness Symposium, Houston Hear from leading experts to learn how replenishing hormones and nutrients, safely and effectively, can restore your energy levels, sense of well-being and beauty from the inside out. 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Hotze Health & Wellness Center. 281- 698-8691 HotzeHWC.com/TeainTexas May 10 Mother’s Day Tea Mad Hatters Tea Room, Caldwell Celebrate with you special gal in a historic town, just north of College Station. Tea and Fashion show. Tea includes three courses Savories, Scones and Pastries. Three seatings available at 11:00 a.m., 12:30, 2p.m. Cost $25, 979-567-3504 madhatterstearoom.com
Sandwiches, Soups, Ice Cream, Milk Shakes, Malts, Ice Cream Sodas, Sundaes, Banana Splits and Homemade Specials!
102 Market Street Tomball, TX 77375 281-516-1942 Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11-6pm Friday - Saturday 11-8pm Sunday 12 - 6pm | Closed Monday Located in the Barns at the Depot across from the Historic Depot Plaza
Free
cup of soup
with purchase of any sandwich
Cannot be combined with any other offer, one 9/1/14 coupon per customer. Expires 9/7/12
32
Free
B U Y ice cream conegetoronecup ONE
Free cone must be of equal or lesser value. Cannot be combined with any other offer, one coupon per customer Expires 9/1/14 9/7/12
www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
May 10 Mother’s Day Tea Serenitea Tea Room, Houston A three-tiered Afternoon Tea service with assorted finger sandwiches, traditional scones served with lemon curd and clotted cream, home-made dessert, and your choice of a pot of tea. All Moms will receive a gift. Cost: $40 281-491-4588 sereniteatearoom.com May 16-18 Pasadena Strawberry Festival, Pasadena The Festival offers a wide variety of activities, attractions and entertainment ranging from
June 13-15 Soapbox Classic, Marble Falls Derby Hat Contest to be judge by a panel of local fashionistas. Two categories: Traditional and Outrageous. Adult participants build soapbox cars and challenge one another on a downhill race. Register online to participate. 830-385-9289 adultsoapboxderby.com
July 4 Kemah’s Fourth of July Celebration, Kemah On July 4th patriotism will fill the air in Kemah, There will be live music & Patriotic fireworks show over Galveston Bay at 9:30 p.m. July 5-6 The 45th Rockport Art Festival, Rockport Since 1969, this Annual Art Festival has made Rockport the best place to be on July 4th weekend. Located right on Aransas Bay and showcasing high-quality artists, live music, a kids' activity tent and more. 361-729-5519 rockportartcenter.com
June 13 Fashion Show & Tea Tasting, Highlands Our "Just In" Fashions will be modeled and Newest Hot Teas sampled all while you enjoy a great lunch at The Teapot Depot Tea Room. 281-426-3670
August 8-9 Navasota Blues Festival, Navasota Event is held at the Grimes County Expo Center. Originally held as a benefit to establish a scholarship fund, the Navasota Blues Festival has grown to include two days of music, food, family entertainment. 936-825-6600 navasotabluesfest.org
June 13-15 Lavender Festival, Blanco Visit beautiful Blanco, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, for the 10th annual Blanco Lavender Festival. Lavender farm tours, market with arts and crafts, lavender presentations and cooking demonstrations. 830-833-5101
August 9 The 8th Annual Ice Cream Festival, Austin Bring yourself, your friends, your family and even your dog to the Austin Ice Cream Festival and come scream with us. Fiesta Gardens. austnicecreamfestival.com
June 15-16 Father’s Day Weekend at Bayou Bend, Houston Celebrate Dad during Father's Day weekend at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. Spend time together exploring art, history, and gardens, Beginning at 1 p.m. fathers and grandfathers receive free admission and a gift from The Shop at Bayou Bend. mfah.org June 21 July 19 August 16 High Tea Prairie Street Heritage House, Columbus Tea is available in Columbus, Texas at The Camellia Tea Room. Stop by for tea in a traditional elegant tea room fare in an historical venue and atmosphere. High Tea will be offered at 2:00 p.m. Rates $15 per person. 979-732-5555 July 1- August 10, Emerging Clay Artists Show, Lamar University, Beaumont CAMEO will present the 8th Annual Emerging Artists Show, an amazing exhibit of college professors and their emerging students who show exceptional talent in clay work. Event will be at the Dishman Art Museum on the Lamar University Campus. Opening Reception will be July 19th at 6:30 PM. 713-528-7687
BritishINIsles THE VILLAGE Where Houston Shops in Britain
BritishIslesOnline.com 2366 Rice Blvd. 713.522.6868
9:30-6:30 Mon-Sat 12-5 Sun
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Houston - Gulf Coast
“The World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake”, barbeque cook-offs and beauty pageants to musical entertainment, children’s games and Mud Volleyball Tournament. Pasadena Fairgrounds, tickets $12.00$15.00. 281-991-9500 strawberryfest.org
Houston - Gulf Coast
Yep... I’ve found THE place for daily lunch, private parties, and Afternoon Teas!
BECAUSE LIFE IS ABOUT THE LITTLE INDULGENCES. Afternoon Tea Served Every Saturday 2-4 pm. Four course tea featuring our special chai blend, Champagne, tasty open faced sandwiches, home made desserts and scones with clotted cream. 4100 Westheimer (next to Highland Village)
Monday - Saturday 11am - 5pm 5305 Bissonnet 713.218.6300 www.mchughtea.com
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
kiranshouston.com 713.960.8472
Tea Cup Lover's Unite Help us decide the best way to enjoy our vintage pieces: What is the size of your tea cup collection? 1-12
13-40
41-70
Share your answers and pics
70+
TEAinTEXAS.com
How do you display them?
Results in next issue
Display:
In a curio cabinet
Location:
All in one place
View: Use:
On hooks
Open shelves Scattered around the room/house
Placed on their saucer
They are used by guests.
Saucer standing
For display only.
Do you clean or rotate them regularly? When did you start collecting?
YES
Recently
More than 5 yrs ago
What do you collect? Take our 2014 Tea Lover's Poll and Take share your collection pics on Certain pieces such as cups ur Poll TEAinTEXAS.com. Thanks for sharing! O line n O Anything I find (eclectic)
Your Cup of Tea
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14034 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77079
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Mon.-Sat. 10AM-6PM Sun. 12AM-5PM Located at Memorial & Kirkwood
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
35
MO RE!
TRAVEL
Dallas - North Texas Houston - Gulf Coast
2014 TEA POLL
Houston - Gulf Tea Around the Coast World
by Debbie Langham, The Teapot Depot
February 2014 is a month that I will always remember with joy and excitement. As I packed my bags for a 3-week trip to Yokosuka, Japan, I anticipated the joy of meeting my new granddaughter, Alyssa and seeing my son, Jeff and daughter-inlaw, Yoko again. Having them so far away, is hard, especially not being able to see Alyssa as she is growing. This was my third time to visit Japan. I really like Japan. The people are so very nice and respectful of one another. We drove to Enoshima, an island southwest of Tokyo, on the backroads which was great. Enoshima is a great place to view Mt. Fuji if you ever luck into a clear day! The trip included bonding time with my son’s growing family as well as Yoko’s mom, Miyouki. It was a wonderful experience filled with tender hearted moments. Many of these moments included a hot cup of tea. I would get up each morning and be greeted by Yoko’s warm smile, Alyssa’s sweet happy face and a hot cup of tea. We would drink 8 or 10 cups of different blends of hot tea throughout the day. Yoko had some wonderful Lupicia blends: Orange & Ginger and Jardin Sauvage. I brought along some of my favoirte TEAinTEXAS blends: Yellow Rose of
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Texas (Miyouki’s favorite), Cowboy Rooibus (Yoko’s favorite) and Lone Star Green (Jeff had a cup of this each afternoon when he got in from work!). It was a joy to share our teas with one another! I was so pleased the gourmet teas I chose to share from Texas held their own with the gourmet teas they had there. There was a language barrier with us grandmothers so there was a lot of smiling and nodding to each other. Honestly, not being able to talk with someone is a little uncomfortable for me. I was amazed at how delighting in our precious granddaughter together as we enjoyed our hot tea enabled us to bridge that language barrier. Hearts speak when words cannot. I am so grateful for the love my in-laws have for my son and for the love I have for my daughter-in-law. This is as it should be for their little family to have much happiness. The memories of holding my sweet Alyssa and the time I spent with my son and his family are ones that I will forever treasure in my heart, and maybe when I start to miss them a little too much, I’ll just pour myself a cup of tea, close my eyes and imagine they are sharing a cup of tea with me again.
Houston - Gulf Coast
...a charming and friendly Texas tearoom with a unique atmosphere for you and your friends with a garden, gifts and great food!
Open Mon. - Sat. 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM Reservations Encouraged - (281) 426-3670
flowers
tea and
the perfect duo.
Come to Baytown
for the finest floral arrangements at Boyd’s Blossoms and stay for lunch at the Mustard Seed Tea Room.
Serving Faith Daily
112 Denny Street, Highlands, TX 77562
(20 miles east of downtown Houston, exit 787 from I-10 east)
TeapotDepotGreatFood.com
THE ART LEAGUE OF BAYTOWN IS CELEBRATING ITS 60TH BIRTHDAY
The Art League of Baytown welcomes new members and you don’t have to be an artist to join us!
Visitors will love browsing through the Art Center of Baytown, once the F.W. Woolworth building, constructed in 1924.
MAY- “The Majesty of Spring” An exhibit of recent works by thirty local artists that depict beautiful images of Spring. Includes, paintings, photographs, handpainted porcelain and glass, wheel thrown pottery. May 7 – 31
Artwork of over 30 local artists is on exhibit for sale.
SCULPTURE PAINTINGS DRAWINGS POTTERY JEWELRY AND OTHER ART MEDIA
BUSINESS HOURS:
Wed–Sat 10-4 p.m.
110 W. Texas Ave Baytown, Texas 77520
281.427.2222
art-league-of-baytown.org
PHOTOGRAPHY
JUNE - Youth Summer Art Camp, grades 1 – 6. Cost is $80/4 days (includes all supplies), Class time is 10 am – 1 pm. Call the Art Center for details. June 16 – 19 Grades 1 – 3 June 23 – 26 Grades 4 – 6 SUMMER ART EXHIBIT “Water, Oil and Mud” – images of Baytown’s nature and industry. An educational exhibit which includes the works of both current and past members in a variety of media. June 11 – August 16. SEPTEMBER “The Hand at Work – A Celebration of Fine Craft” Clay and Textiles. Opening Saturday, September 6th. Runs through the 27th. The Clay Arts Museum and Educational Organization – CAMEO - partners with the Art League of Baytown to hold a series of fine craft exhibits each fall.
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Houston - Gulf Coast
Gg’s is a unique gift boutique filled with fun & casual to simple & elegant. Find items that we all know & love to those that will become your new favorite! Enjoy these wonderful lines: Pandora Dian Malouf Niven Morgan Wine-A-Rita’s Nora Fleming Jon Hart ~ Yellow Box
Just too many to list, so come on in!
This Spring
shopgoldengypsies.com
Monogramming Available
A world of German treasures beer steins | cuckoo clocks pyramids | glass ornaments amber jewelry | nutcrackers plus German food items 210 Gentry St | Spring.TX
281-528-8877 germangifthouse.com
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Houston - Gulf Coast
Photo credit: Karen Hillman
Next Weekend
What are you doing for fun?
Available for Parties!
Great Baby Showers, Wedding Showers, Birthdays!
These boots are walking around Old Town Spring! In a matter of hours, visitors can flock to this railroad town near The Woodlands, for shopping, dining, & seasonal festivals. Independently owned small businesses fill the stores with specials gifts and treats in the over 100+ tree-lined streets. “We enjoy meeting people from across the state,” says Pam Golden, marketing coordinator for the Spring Preservation League. “Each store goes through to great lengths to have top brands and fun finds for our visitors.” Old Town Spring offers women’s clothing boutiques, bridal fashions & special occasions; bath, body & massage centers; children’s clothing & toys stores; pet boutiques & bakeries; a doll hospital and quilting & yarn shops. “Whether friends are shopping for themselves or decorating their homes, the day is spent finding unique merchandise and enjoying tasty treats in Old Town Spring,” adds Ellen Saxe, owner of Ellen’s Café. “Gals love to shop, dine and enjoy their time together. The star of the trip is a peaceful lunch at one of our Texas eateries, we have it all!” All American, Texas, & Gourmet Cuisine! Foodies can leave old Town Spring with local gourmet dips, sauces, spices, premium teas, coffees and wines. While greenies can find garden decor and plants or give new life to recycled, salvaged, & antique furniture on their getaway. A welcoming flag is never far from sight.
The Hat People 213 Main Street Spring, Texas 77373 281-288-4772 Open 11 am - 5pm Wednesday - Sunday
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Houston - Gulf Coast
Off the Beaten Path:
GALVESTON The Lasker Inn
EXPLORE Small towns off the highway
BAYTOWN The Art League Center
FRIENDSWOOD The Charleston Tea Room
By Michelle Lindsey
Have you ever gotten lost on a road trip and “accidentally” found a great adventure? Sometimes the best memories are created by simply opening your eyes to the journey and not just focusing on the destination. It is approximately 50 miles from the heart of Houston to the heart of Galveston but these two cities act as bookends to a unique cluster of 15 small Texas communities each with a rich history. Yesterday’s stories can inspire tomorrow’s greatest achievements and the pride each town draws on from their history illustrates the foundation the Lone Star State was build upon. The individuality of these communities comes alive with each unique display and integration of its history with the and the hope for the future. Alvin, may be best known as the hometown of Baseball Legend Nolan Ryan, but it’s history extends beyond the baseball diamond with a wonderful park in the shade of the Historic Train Depot. Fill your day exploring at the Marguerite Rogers House Museum, Confederate Cemetery or look for hidden treasures at the Antique Mall. Baytown’s creative side is proudly displayed through the efforts of the Art League of Baytown which is celebrating its 60th birthday this year! Whether you explore the art gallery, participate in a class or workshop or attend one of their exhibits or events,
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Open Your Mind to Texas’ Legacy with Small Town History
www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Baytown is proud to show off their colors both at the Art League and throughout this town with rich history such as the historic 1894 one-room Wooster School and 1910 Brown-McKay House. Friendswood is home to The Charleston Tea Room and Café where you can enjoy a quiet lunch or refreshing tea break while exploring the only Texas town still in existence that was founded as a Quaker settlement. Meanwhile, Texas City is a treasure map for history buffs as this town has encountered Indians, the pirate Jean LaFitte, and the exciting early oil boom days. Seabrook has eleven miles of waterfront; both salt and fresh water and the Clear Lake area is the third largest boating center in the United States, with 1,250 boat slips in Seabrook. Whether you want to learn more about Western art, music and Longhorn artifacts at the Butler Longhorn Museum in League City, enjoy hands on learning such as exploring the Galveston Railroad Museum or immerse yourself in history and stay in the historical 1870-built Lasker Inn, the Houston to Galveston corridor has more to offer than a fast-paced interstate connecting these two cities. The history in these towns that connect Texas’ past with its future is a cornucopia of unique adventures waiting to be explored. All you need is an open mind and a slower pace to enjoy the history lesson you will remember for a lifetime.
Houston - Gulf Coast
TEA ROOM Private Parties Meetings Catering Party Trays Orders To Go 154 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, Texas 77546 Hours : 11- 2
Monday - Saturday
281-992-8327 (teas)
Home of Old Town Spice Tea Lunch · Afternoon Tea Freshly Baked Scones Desserts
te a We can help you celebra
Call and let us book your tea party in style. Tues-Sat 11-4 & Sun 12-4
281-528-6550
speci
t
123 Midway Old Town Spring, TX 77373 rth al even CrossroadsCollection.com
Bi
Sh owers, Bridal Showers
Featuring
Afternoon Teas Quilter’s Guild & Scrapbooking Retreats Family Reunions Historic Galveston Island
Blocks from the Beach
days , Ba b y
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
41
pring is bursting with new life. What a beautiful day to have an Easter theme children’s tea. Any little girl would want to have fun trying to catch butterflies on such a day as this. With little nets provided, that sure tickled their fancy. Of course, share with them to let those beautiful, flying insects go again to fly free off into God’s-given garden. Those that were fortunate to catch one, experienced a “butterfly kiss” landing on their hand and flying away again into the wind. Hosting a children’s party doesn’t have to be complicated. Make it fun for you and the children. Let the setting, whether outdoor or indoor, influence your choice of decorations. No event brings more joy to the little ones like a TEA PARTY, especially for children ages 2 to 5 years old. As the ages vary, so should your planning. For instance, don’t serve hot tea to this age group as they can burn themselves. Consider serving a fruity herbal tea or pink lemonade. Appropriate activities can vary as to the age group. Sweet and fun, the tea party decorations can be hats for the girls to wear, dresses for the occasion, when paired with a special time to create beautiful cards. Whether it is Mother’s Day, Easter or someone’s birthday, time allowed for this, nothing adds onthe-spot fun like being creative. Great finds can sometimes be around the house to decorate with. Even grandma’s house may hold treasures that can be used. THE RESULT: Stage a fashion parade to show off hats along with a princess walk. The idea is to evoke a colorful floral display complimentary of your theme or design.
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
By Elizabeth Cerda
An art form of entertaining is by setting an art station for those pint-size future artists to create their masterpieces. When the fun is done, they have a treat to take home. Following the theme, children can be captivated by what they created. I provided felt die-cut egg images with stickers. You can buy ready-make images or cut them out using felt
Toddler Teatime
“ Those that were fortunate to catch one, experienced a “butterfly kiss” landing on their hand and flying away again into the wind.” or construction paper. Stickers come in an array of theme preferences, the more colorful the better. Even if artistic abilities don’t show readily, the idea is for them to have fun. It’s a time for them to show their imagination and expression through different artistic expressions. You’ll be surprised they don’t necessarily need stimulation. Offer a favor that goes with a theme, whether it’s edible or the art project they made with their little hands. Nothing
brings most children a thrill that they made something. Don’t forget the table settings - ceramic or plastic. I prefer ceramic teacups and saucers, as some are slightly thicker, but with the help of a parent or guardian, this makes the tea special. If not comfortable with smaller children using ceramic, then plastic can be substituted. Most memorable, the children can remember the tea with a framed photo after the event, along with a goody bag or favor of your choosing. MENU: Make the food simple. Use cookie cutters to cut out jelly sandwiches along with cucumber sandwiches in the shape of a crown and shoe. Ideal desserts can be blueberry sconces with lemon curd and cupcakes. Always double check for allergies children may have before selecting your menu. Since Easter is approaching, the inspiration for an Easter theme was appropriate for the occasion I hosted. Don’t forget. Get those cameras ready! You’re sure to capture some great pictures. I hope to see you next time as I will host a tea for another age group of girls! I had fun, I hope you do too. Elizabeth Cerda has been hosting tea parties for over 15 years for her church and at her home for children from 2 to 102! With two granddaughters ages 2 and 3 the fun has truly begun! For your children’s tea party questions, you can reach her at Tea4us2@aol.com.
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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HoustonBook - GulfReviews Coast Summer
F
or avid readers and tea lovers, nothing epitomizes the joys of summer better than the pure pleasure of that perfect summer read enjoyed alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea. When New York Times bestselling authors Joanne Fluke and Marie Bostwick are joined with newly discovered author Duncan W. Alderson, they provide fresh insights on the themes of love, romance, the power of forgiveness, Texas history, and, last but not least, a spine-tingling mystery. With such a wide variety of choices, there’s no better way to experience one of life’s most luxurious indulgences, than by spending time within the pages of a book. Fans of the popular Hannah Swenson mystery series will be adding Joanne Fluke’s newest “BLACKBERRY PIE MURDER” to their list of favorites. “It’s been a sleepy summer for the folks of Lake Eden, Minnesota. In fact, it’s been a whole four months since anyone in the Swenson family has come across a dead body – a detail that just made the front page of the local paper. And that means Hannah Swenson can finally focus on her bakery…or can she?” In this fast-paced ‘can’t put it down till the end’ read, Fluke skillfully incorporates unexpected twists and turns as Hannah finds herself facing trumped-up charges and under arrest for vehicular homicide. Will Hannah successfully solve the mystery of the accident victim’s identity and prove her innocence in his death in time to participate in her mother’s upcoming wedding?
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Book Reviews by Janet Pool
For those readers whose summer plans include tea party style hospitality, inspiration from Fluke’s signature inclusion of 24 delectable recipes will soon have you heading to the kitchen for a homemade ‘bake-a-thon.’ Your guests will feel truly special when served these luscious treats: Tio Tito’s Sublime Lime Bars, Cream Cheese and Herb Scones, Fettuccini Porcini, and Winnie’s Fresh Blackberry Pie, all topped off with a refreshing Blackberry Pie Cooler. “Apart at the Seams” by Marie Bostwick is the sixth installment to her Cobbled Court Quilt novels. Longtime fans along with those discovering this series for the first time will fall in love with the characters and find themselves wishing that they, too, could live in a quaint town like New Bern. When Gayla Oliver “finds a discarded memo in which (her husband) Brian admits to an affair,” she decides to spend the summer ‘on sabbatical’ in her “quest to find a new pattern for living.” This heartwarming story incorporates supportive family relationships, nurturing friendships, and love of quilting as it brings to life an inspiring story of forgiveness. Readers will rejoice with Gayla as her life is transformed, and she rebuilds her marriage of twenty-six years.
Duncan W. Alderson’s “sweeping, sumptuous debut (of)…Magnolia City is a story of love, greed, jealousy, and redemption, brought to life through the eyes of its unforgettable heroine.” During the 1920’s, “Houston… (was) a city of established cotton kings and newly rich oil barons, where the elite lived in beaux art mansions behind the gates of Courtlandt Place. (The denizens of Courtlandt Place practiced a more formal, Edwardian style of southern etiquette, which lingered until World War II.) Kirby Augustus Allen, grandson of the Allen brothers who founded Houston as a real estate deal, is grooming his daughter Hetty to marry the scion of the Splendora oil fortune. But Hetty, a strong and willful woman, like Scarlett O’Hara, will do whatever it takes to make her own dreams come true.”
Prairie Street Heritage House Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room
1118 Prairie Street Columbus, Texas 78934 979-732-5555 | prairieteatime@att.net www.prairiestreetheritagehouse.com
Offering High Teas - $15 - 3rd Saturday of month, 2:00 p.m. Reservations required 979-732-5555
May 17th
June 21th
July 19th
Aug 16th
Readers will enjoy the many layers and depth Alderson brings to this novel. The characters’ personalities and family genealogies vividly portray, not only the lives of the elite but those aspiring to join them. Alderson’s description of life in early Houston (aka Magnolia City) also provides tidbits of Texas trivia. Romantic and historic ‘Magnolia City’ befittingly captures the spirit of Houston as she “was still a gracious bayou town, steaming at the edge of the Old South but awash in the new money of Spindletop oil.” During the ‘Roaring Twenties,’ her glorious Magnolia Park, so named because of the 3,750 southern magnolia trees planted on her grounds, rivaled Central Park. At the conclusion of the book, Alderson includes a discussion guide making this an excellent choice for a book club. There is also a short Q & A ‘interview’ which provides additional information about the author and the inspiration for his novel. Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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Central Texas
With the inclusion of a discussion guide, ‘Apart at the Seams’ would be an excellent choice for use by a book reading club. In addition, quilters will be thrilled to know that a companion quilt pattern has been created for this book by Bostwick’s friend Deb Tucker. It is available as a free download along with the previous five companion patterns from the earlier books in this series on her website: www.mariebostwick.com
Central Texas
Retreat, Relax
& Rejuvenate
Jennifer Wang and girlfriends unwind on the porch of Blisswood B&B in Cat Springs.
As the trees awaken from a long winters nap, so too it is time people begin to explore all Texas has to offer from small, sleepy, hamlets to towns bursting with summer festivals.
Picture yourself on a girlfriend’s weekend exploring historical sites, shopping antique stores, quilt shops and boutiques, enjoying nature’s scenic drives on rural country roads, lunching in quaint tea rooms and ending the day in a comfy, hospitable bed and breakfast. Some B&Bs offer in-room massages from local massage therapists, afternoon tea service, or complimentary wine and cheese as an evening snack.
By Virginia Walker, Ed. D.
Graduation teas and luncheons are also extra special when held at a B&B. The unique setting of a B&B adds an element of enchantment and captivating ambiance usually not found at other venues. Father’s Day can be made out of the ordinary by treating dad and mom to an overnight stay at a B&B. Many B&B’s offer specials for such occasions and the homemade gourmet breakfasts are a real treat. Attending a family reunion? Why not stay at a B&B? The experience is so much more enjoyable. Steve and Karen S. from Odessa recorded, “We absolutely loved our short stay at the Sandstone. We were busy with our family reunion but would love to come back for a weekend and stay to enjoy the lovely home and grounds. Breakfast was just wonderful! " Therefore, regardless of your summer plans for travel, consider the offerings of a lovely, gracious, and welcoming bed and breakfast as your choice for lodging. You will be pleasantly pleased.
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www.teaintexas.com | Summer 2014
Virginia Walker is the owner of Sandstone Street Bed and Breakfast. She enjoys hosting parties for all occasions at the B&B. Virginia enjoys traveling and working in the garden.
Central Texas News
Central Texas
The Scoop
Butterflies and Rare Antique Quilts On Exhibit at Texas Quilt Museum Gorgeous antique quilts from a storied collection, and quilts featuring butterflies are the subjects of two new exhibts at the Texas Quilt Museum in La Grange through June 29. “Antique Quilts from the Gundersheimer Collection” features eight incredible antique quilts representing a wide variety of styles and genres from the stunning personal collection of Karen and Werner Gundersheimer, who collected quilts for decades. A vibrant Amish Shadow and Sunshine quilt, a red and white alphabet quilt, a triple Irsh Chain and a 19th-century crazy quilt are among the highlights.
100-year old colonial revival home
Sandstone Street Bed & Breakfast
Inspired by the mission and purpose of the National Butterfly Center, the “Butterflies and Their Beautiful Kin” Exhibit is a juried exhibit of contemporary quilts. It showcases the skill and creativity of talented textile artists from across the country, while promoting conservation. The 38 quilts also celebrate the completion of “Grandmother’s Flower Garden,” a beautiful meditative space adjacent to the museum that attracts butterflies. A second exhibit, “An Invitational Flutter of Butterfly Art Quilts,” features 17 quilts selected by Curator Dr. Sandra Sider. The Texas Quilt Museum is located at 140 W. Colorado Street, La Grange, Texas. It is housed in two 19th-century buildings in the Historic District. Learn more at www. texasquiltmuseum.org, or call 979-968-3104.
Three upstairs Rooms non-smoking, newly decorated, with period antiques, spa robes, Wi-Fi, HD-TV Full three-course breakfast served in dining room Afternoon Tea served daily
325-423-2581 508 E. Sandstone Llano, Texas
“Where southern charm and Texas hospitality reside”
www.sandstonestreetbnb.com
Within walking distance to Courthouse Square, Shopping, Restaurants, Library, Museum, Llano River Available for small events such as Small Weddings, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Birthday Parties, Tea Parties, Card/ Bunco Luncheons
Summer 2014 | www.teaintexas.com
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A FRESH LOOK ON UNIQUE TRAVEL
teaintexas.com
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RESERVE NOW: teaintexas.com 832-955-1767 Mention discount code INFUSE for $5 off
SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2014 1PM- 5PM
TEAinTEXAS
5th Daas
presents the
aft ern
oon
Tea air s
tea - new blends - cook
mo e d ing
Heard-Craig Center for the Arts 205 W Hunt St McKinney, TX 75069
SUNDAY | JUNE 8, 2014 | 1PM- 5PM
CELEBRATE TEXAS
As we preserve TEXAS in 2013, enjoy a fantastic Afternoon Tea at the elegant Heard-Craig Center for the Arts, then partake of a fun teatime affair - laugh, learn, and share the tea madness in Greater Dallas. TICKET INFO $69 All-Inclusive Tickets $59 Early Bird Seating
INCLUDES: Fun: Tea Cup Exchange
Give new life to a vintage tea cup this June, let your cup find new friends and flourish at the Tea Affair. Add a note with a special teatime memory to share. All cups should be washed and lightly wrapped.
Workshop: Create your own Tea
Tea blending is not written down and there are no rules, it’s a personal tea journey. Start with your favorite tea then add delicious elements to create new tastes to take home. Vendors
Talk: Decorate with Antiques
Door Prizes Silent Auctions & more
Margaret Chambers will guide guests into the fascinating world of decoating with antiques, sharing guidance on incorporating treasured items into home decor. Get inspired!
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Come for Tea!
A lovely Sunday afternoon celebrating travel and friends. Benefits Texas City House, providing emergency shelter and transitional residential services to children and young adults of Collin County.