Some bitter cold temperatures greeted us the first week of December. Cozy blankets, cushy socks, and warm beverages are a must. The cats are snuggled up with every blanket they can find as well. 

I pulled out the colorful tin of Fortnum & Mason Christmas black tea and enjoyed a mug of warming tea in bed. Archie, one of our two kitties, decided to join me. 

I know HE doesn’t care that it’s the first time I used my new wooden tray that I picked up for a fantastic price on eBay, but I cared. The tray is beautifully made with a heavy wooden base and four ceramic tiles edged with the Pfaltzgraff Winterberry pattern to match the teacup and saucer I already had. 

The tea is a wonderful blend of spices that include cocoa nibs and clementines, along with bold Christmas spices. The festive flavors make one think of winter scenes in the countryside as snow-covered trees line the narrow roads to a quaint, local cottage. Well, if I lived in the UK, it would. Here in Maine, it just makes me cozy in our own ranch home during the holiday season.

I picked up the rather large tin of tea from Williams Sonoma last year. Once I get through all of the tea (I’m getting there!), I will probably display the beautiful tin on a yearly basis with my Christmas decor.

Cheers and enjoy the holiday season!