Tea? Why talk about that?

Greetings!
After reviewing a few blogs, I realized that while I do enjoy talking about tea, I really enjoy talking about life. So, this year our blog is likely to take a slightly different path.

Life is short. Tea is forever. Well, unless you believe global warming is a major issue. In that case, tea may not be forever. I'm not clear on that point yet. For us, it is important to be aware of our energy consumption, the products we use, how and where we purchase items, etc. Honestly, we've been this way at least as long as Steve and I have been together.

As we work on the new Tea Trove blending building, we are assessing how it uses energy. We are repairing the windows (original) and installing insulated drapes, adding insulation, repairing holes, etc. I learned from a bit of research that replacing the original windows was a bad idea (for several reasons.) One tidbit is this: an insulated drape over a single payne window provides more insulation than the same drape over a double payne window. Who knew? I found some study that tested this and problably have a copy of it if anyone is interested.

Having a little land with which to experiment is going to be fun. I plan to start an organic garden (not sure when, but it is in the plans) and we are looking at solar options for a few things.

So, tea is not necessarily forever, but it is for now. Enjoy and experiment!

Peace.
Kori

Happy New Year!

Greetings and Happy New Year!

May 2008 be your year for accomplishing all that you set out to do. I plan to seize the day! Everyday! Life is short and I plan to be exhausted in the end. Nothing reminds me more of just how important this is than when someone dies. For us, 2007 brought two deaths to our family in a span of about one month. We said good-bye to 2007 with another family member passing. This has been an especially difficult year for our family as well as our extended family. So, I resolve to be exhausted!

On the upside, we welcomed our daughter, Zara, into the world. What a fabulous experience this has been so far. She is a smiling, laughing and curious girl with lots to say. We also relocated personally and professionally. Moving to the country has proven to be a great decision. We are more relaxed and our son LOVES the new place. On Christmas morning, we were visited by a peacock! He likes to hang out on our deck and peak inside. Zain is fascinated!

Closing and relocating The Tea Trove is in phase one of completion. Nearly everything is out of the store and in Fremont. Here's a tip: I don't recommend moving a business in winter.

We are so excited to be making positive changes for 2008! We hope you are too!

Cheers!
Kori