June is National Iced Tea Month

Welcome summer with iced tea! Try it cold brewed - Culinary Teas has a wonderful selection and they are currently on sale. Or brew it yourself and add cold water. Frank over at 52Teas (a KeenTeaThyme tea pantry staple) has a great selection of iced teas to try.

Got any other fave selection(s) to add? E-mail away!

Happy Summer, Happy Brewing!

Why drink tea? - May 2011 Poll Results

The majority of you who voted in the May 2011 Poll drink tea for the following reasons:

• It's enjoyable, interesting and fun (70%)
• It's comforting, warm and so many varieties (76%)

Voters had a chance to select more than one answer, including the two listed above. The results are in. Why do we drink tea?

• 47% said health benefits 
• 29% said "because coffee sucks" - a fun answer, and I hope voters picked this one along with another option
• 35% because tea drinking is in your blood (heritage, family reasons)
• 23% said "why not?" - another fun answer :)
• and 1% said "other"... Hmm, now you've got me curious!

Check out the June 2011 Poll - what is your favorite type of tea? E-mail me reasons why for a chance to be featured as a June 2011 Pollster. Featured comments will be posted with the results at the end of June/beginning of July.

Happy Brewing!

Simply Helping People

“Simply Helping People” – how one man’s quest to save his life became an internationally reknown tea company

By Carolynne Keenan/Keen Tea Thyme

Who knew that one man’s quest to save his life would eventually take root as a successful international tea company?

In 1977, Sir Jason Winters (known then as simply “Jason Winters”) was given terrible news – he had merely months to live before his body succumbed to cancer.

But Winters had an incredible will to live – and found a way to live well into the 21^st century.

When he was 46, the Englishman was diagnosed with terminal cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Basically, he had a tumor wrapped around a vein in his neck and it was killing him. He underwent five weeks of cobalt radiation treatment, and doctors pressed him to have radical neck surgery – including the removal of his tongue, jaw bone and neck muscles.

Winters refused, and began a search to find an alternative to losing such a large amount of his face and neck. He traveled to Mexico and began receiving Laetrile injections, a product made from crushed apricot pits. This worked – for a time, as the tumor began to shrink.

But a few weeks later the tumor returned with a vengeance, and Winters turned to religious books, which referenced using different types of herbs blended into medicines.

Many of those herbs, at the time, were not available in England – but Winters didn’t care. He searched the globe for the herbs locating them finally in the US, England and Singapore. Once he found them, he blended them into a tea and brewed up a cup.

Winters began experiencing remission after drinking the tea regularly for a few weeks. Within months, the tumor was gone. And from there the legend was born.

His herbal blend became known as Jason Winters Herbal Blend and he eventually formed an internationally renowned tea company. Before his death in 2004, Winters was knighted in Malta; wrote numerous books (including his autobiography detailing his miraculous recovery); appeared in radio, television and newspapers; and spoke to millions worldwide.

His son, Sir Raymond Winters, has followed in his father’s footsteps, as he is co-founder and president of Tri-Sun International/Sir Jason Winters products (SJW).

But Sir Jason Winters never intended to create an international company. “We never really envisioned an international selling brand,” Sir Raymond Winters said. “My father just wanted to save his life.”

What began as simply a tea product has morphed into an entire healthy living campaign with a variety of products. “Always check with your healthcare provider first before starting anything new,” Sir Raymond Winters said. In addition, SJW are not meant to replace any cancer treatment, but could be used in conjunction with treatments. Testimonials are available on the SJW Web site, as well as online. Cancer-free and/or otherwise healthy people who enjoy tea may want to try the blend (and the flavored versions) as a healthier alternative to just “plain” tea.

Those new to the product line, Sir Raymond Winters suggested trying the Classic Blend first, as “this was the original tea blend formulated by Sir Jason Winters over 30 years ago.”

SJW’s product line includes both loose tea and bagged tea, plus numerous vitamin and herbal supplements.

The tea is pre-brewed. Why? “This process makes it easier and quicker to brew the tea,” Sir Raymond Winters explained. “If we just cut up the loose tea and put [it] into bags this does not brew very well.”

Currently the tea selection is Jason Winters green, oolong and herbal tisanes, he added. “We try and offer new natural flavored teas as customers request them.”

In addition to teas, in Japan the company uses the Jason Winters blend in ice cream, bread and cookies. “We have many ideas,” Sir Raymond Winters said. “But [we] try to keep my father’s vision in mind…to help people.”

The products are available on the SJW Web site, as well as some health food stores, pharmacies and grocery stores. For more information, visit http://sirjasonwinters.com/ and

http://sirjasonwinters.com/catalog.htm (download online version or request print copy).

Sources for this feature

·         Sir Raymond Winters interview via e-mail; special thanks to Angelo @ SJW for facilitating interview & thanks to Sir Raymond Winters for taking the time to answer my questions

·         “Killing Cancer” by Sir Jason Winters

·         The Sir Jason Winters story as posted on the Web site http://sirjasonwinters.com/story.htm

·         Additional information compiled (and verified) @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Winters (sources verified)

Images Used with Permission/Copyright preserved

Summer Sunshine

Here is the first (of hopefully many more) Keen Tea Thyme featured blends! Eventually samples and quantities will be for sale on Tea Trade; I'll post when they are available (I need more stock first).

This is great hot or iced!

LocaliTEA - another new Keen idea

Starting in July, I'll have a new feature on Keen Tea Thyme. (I know, you're thinking, another one?!) But this is to replace the Ally adventures. Someone took some of that writing from my site and passed it off as her own - boo! - so I'm pulling the story. I will complete it and publish it in an e-book format, though, so don't despair. And if you have any questions for Ally, keep sending them in!

LocaliTEA will feature reviews of local tea shops - local to you, dear readers. (And me too.) I don't have very many in my community but I'm hunting them down.

Anyone can participate. Just let me know if you're interested. You'll need to complete the review yourself but I'll give you full credit (unlike the Ally-stealer!). You'll need to include a photo; please take it yourself or get permission to use another's image.

I'll start July off with one from my neck of the woods: Zen Tara Tea, in Bethesda, MD. I'd like to have at least one a month, and from all over.

If interested, e-mail me or post below.

Happy Hunting!

Our Turn: 500 (or more) True Tea Facts

OK, I did some more research into the 365 Things Every Tea Lover Should Know and have made a determination. Sources were not checked and lots of the facts are actually opinion. So here's my new plan: let's do this bigger and better!

What do I mean? Let's compile a list of at least 500 (if not more) TRUE tea facts. Eventually I'll publish in an ebook format with proceeds benefiting a charity or something of that nature.

You in? Want me to get things started? OK. Here are five true tea facts (and the sources). List yours below and every week or so I'll post them, with updates. Also, I will give you credit - so list your name/handle as well as the source for the fact.

Let's brew - I mean, do - this! :)

1. The phrase Chai Tea is something of a redundancy. Chai or Cha simply means "tea" in South Asia and other parts of the world. English speakers who refer to "chai" typically mean "masala chai," which is a popular spiced tea made from Indian spices and herbs. (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chai, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chai_tea)

2. Darjeeling is not from China, even though 365 Things...claims it is. As reader Jackie pointed out, it's actually a tea from India. The black tea is named after Darjeeling, a Himalayan town in West Bengal, India. This typically black tea is also known as the "Cadillac of Teas," and is available in green and oolong varieties. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darjeeling_tea)


3. White tea, on the other hand, is almost exclusively produced in China, and is a lightly oxidized tea. "The name "white tea" derives from the fine silvery-white hairs on the unopened buds of the tea plant, which gives the plant a whitish appearance." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_tea)

4. Many literary geniuses and writers also happen to be fans of tea. There are many tea related quotes, poems, prose and phrases out there, such as this one from Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book:
We had a kettle; we let it leak:
Our not repairing made it worse.
We haven't had any tea for a week...
The bottom is out of the Universe.
~Rudyard Kipling (http://www.quotegarden.com/tea.html)

5. There are also many proverbs that reference tea, as the enjoyment of tea spans centuries: 
If man has no tea in him, he is incapable of understanding truth and beauty.  ~Japanese Proverb (http://www.quotegarden.com/tea.html)

Black Currant Rooibos - 52Teas Week of May 16, 2011 Blend

Welcome summer with Frank@52Teas latest blend, Black Currant Rooibos:

Image used with permission/copyrighted
www.52teas.com
Only $7.99 (including shipping), but check out other in stock blends with this master blender.

SpecialTea Brew adds to tea roster

Ami Soleau, owner of SpecialTea Brew, based in Seattle, is already expanding her line of teas. We first introduced Ami who is in search of a great business partner; the hunt is still on if you're interested. For more information, check out the first article I wrote for her: http://keenteathyme.blogspot.com/2011/05/her-specialtea-is-tea.html.

Here are just a few of the new additions to her tea shop, all available in heat-sealed 2 oz packages (or larger, upon request). She sent me a few samples and I am impressed! I'm posting to Steepster in the next few days. :)

For the complete list, visit her shop online: http://www.specialteabrew.com/

Black teas: You're a Peach, Ginger; Early Grey; Spiced Cider, Spiced Seattle Chai (I'm curious on this one!) and more.

Green teas: Sweet Emerald City, Jazmine, High Mountain, Jazzy Mandarin Pearls

White teas: Orange You Cinnamon, Peachy Coconut, Creamy Raspberry, Strawberry Fields, White Peony

Herbal & Rooibos: Lemon Ginger Snap, Little Coconut Rooibos, 6 Herb, Herb Spice and All Things Nice, and more

She has a special deal w/shipping going on now; all orders up to $50 will ship for only $3.95. Check out her site now and take advantage of her new teas, plus this offer.

Ami also makes custom greeting cards. Check out her site for more info. :)

Check out my teas for sale on Tea Trade

In an effort to make room for more teas (specifically Read My Lips from David's Tea, it will be mine soon!) I am selling some of my teas on Tea Trade.

All of these teas were purchased by me; I didn't receive them in swaps. I just need to rebuild my tea budget for May so I can place an order with David's tea. Please help!

Oh and all orders from my store on Tea Trade get a FREE sample of either Vampire Lemonade or Toasted Marshmallow. You pick when you order - or I'll pick for you! :)

Here's a link for the items for sale:
http://teatrade.tinypay.me/#q=user:sMb5JE7l

Send me any questions! :)

365 Things Every Tea Lover Should Know

Picked up this gem over the weekend: 365 Things Every Tea Lover Should Know from Harvest House Publications.

It's a collection of tea quotes, sayings and fun facts, plus a recipe or two. I keep it with me in my purse and check it out once in a while. It's fun to flip to a page and see what's there.

Randomly flipped to page 73, which lists the following:
#190: For your afternoon tea pleasure, turn to teas from China. Darjeeling is a favorite
#191: Savor lighter teas in the evening. Green tea is a good choice because it has less caffeine. Or enjoy a decaffeinated tea or herbal tisane such as chamomile.
#192: When creating a great pot of tea, pour boiling water into the teapot and remember that small tea leaves will take less time to brew than large ones.

RealiTEA: FDA recall on bottled water

If you use bottled water to brew tea - and for any other consumption - please note, Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall. The Arkansas Department of Health announced today (5/11/11) that samples taken from Mountain Pure water show the presence of biological contamination - mold.

Readers, if you purchased Mountain Pure purified drinking water in the 16.9 fl. oz. (506 ml) size, check the four digit time code etched on all bottles: 2200 to 0400 (military time). The affected lot also includes an expiration date code that says either Best By 2-27-2013 MPWA or Best By 2-28-2013 MPWA.

Return the affected bottles to the place of purchase or dispose of the water immediately.

For more information, check out the FDA's press release on the "brewing" situation.

It's Always About Popularity; 5000 Hits Contest

I am so proud of my blog - and for everyone who has been telling friends and family about it. :) Since my blog went "live" in March 2011 (just a couple months ago!) I have over 2800 hits!

I'm halfway to 5000 hits, and my goal was to reach that within nine months... I think I'll make it.

Help get the word out about my blog! Post a link or two below (or on the mirrored site: http://keenteathyme.teatra.de/) that illustrates your promoting my blog and be entered to win a tea sampler pack from a variety of tea companies.

I'll randomly select a winner and post the winning promotion, winner's name and/or blog, and what the winner won.

And don't forget, I love promoting your blogs too. If you post your tea blog below and it's not already a part of "Tea Fiends & Friends," I'll add it -  winner or not.

5000 hits here I come! :)

52teas: Tulsi Rama - Week of May 9th

Will wonders never cease? Not only are more 52teas blends available in the Rescued from Retirement initiative, here's the new tea available from 52teas. Remember, limited run only! So if you want it, grab it now!


used w/permission from 52teas

I had to google "tulsi rama" because it sounded more like an episode of "LOST" than a tisane/tea. According to http://www.organicindia.com/tulsi-facts.php, Tulsi Rama, aka "Holy Basil," is a stress-relieving herb that also works wonders with your immune system and even enhances stamina.

If I hadn't already blown my tea budget this week, I'd hop on this. If anyone is up for sharing this tea, I'd love to!

Basil on pizza is pretty good and I'm sure this cuppa is more healthy...

Matcha, Matcha, Matcha

I've been pretty sick lately - with migraines, then the back thing, and stomach problems.

Since the back surgery worked - thank goodness! - I can focus on my stomach issues. My new goal is to be healthy, which means be nicer to my stomach.

I can't go vegan or vegetarian; I have a total love affair with steak and chicken.

However, I'm going to try to integrate matcha into my beverages. Matcha fans, got any tips? I'm still researching the health benefits, but will be reporting back soon...

I'm also going to opt for fresh veggies and fruit in my diet. I love eating fresh fruit and veggies; in CA you could grow anything in your backyard so I'd just go outside for a snack. I got lazy. And now I'm paying.

It seems one of the only healthy things I do consume is tea. But I'm going to look into different tea recipes - not just adding matcha but perhaps other ways to use tea. Got any to share?

The point is now that I'm relatively pain-free, now I can focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Walking more.  Taking better care of myself. In honor of my grandmother, Oma, who is in her mid-70's and can out-walk me any day.

Join me on this journey and we'll swap healthy lifestyle tips. Let's get started! But first, I'm going to brew myself a cup of tea...

Happy Mother's Day - Memories

One of my favorite memories is sharing a cup of tea with my mother and Oma, my mom's mom. Many times when my family visited my grandparents, my dad, brother and Papa would disappear into the family room (probably talk sports or politics), and the girls would enjoy a cup of tea after dinner.

I remember selecting a tea from one of the many tins which, to this day, still smell like Oma's house - like clean linens, fresh laundry and baked cookies.

I always felt so grownup sharing that cup of tea with Mom and Oma. They would talk about grown-up things or I'd talk about school or the latest "novel" I was writing. (I wrote my first "novel" when I was in elementary school...a diatribe about a lemonade stand.)

A few years ago my grandparents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. My brother, now sister-in-law, Mom and I made a scrapbook of their lives together. We actually sat and drank tea while presenting them with presents. There is a peace that comes from drinking a cup of tea, surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a family moment together. I felt that peace then, and whenever I drink Constant Comment tea now I imagine that moment and feel that peace again.

My mom & Oma both have a love of tea, which they've past on to me. My mom loves her Red Rose tea - collecting the ceramic animals and making sun tea from the bags. Oma enjoys coffee-flavored teas - Hazelnut and French Vanilla. I've taken that love and expanded on it, plus crafted my own blends for them.

I'm reminded, now, of a tag sewn on the many clothes my mom made for me, as well as clothes and quilts and mittens and scarves my Oma made for me: Made with Love. Should I ever start a tea company, I think I would adopt that and called it "Brewed with Love" or "Steeped with Love."

I plan to name my future daughter after the grandmother, Oma, who inspired me to be a better person. From things I've done in my life I hardly think I'm close.

But I look forward to each visit with both my mom and my Oma, so we can share tea and memories once again.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day!

I'm not a mom, not yet. But I have been fortunate enough to know three amazing women - my mother and my two grandmothers, Oma and the late Grann.

Grann & I shared a lot before she passed away. She was one of the few people to encourage me to write, and taught me how to really listen to people. She married her childhood sweetheart, as I have married my college sweetheart. She was passionate about many things, and taught me to be passionate too.

Oma, who is in her 70's, is my mom's mom, and her first name will be the middle name of my future daughter. Oma is a very good woman, well-liked and well-respected. She is loved by her family and friends. I have tried to be like her in many ways: patient, friendly, mild-mannered.

I get a lot of my personality from my mom: we're both driven, hard workers and loyal. We both have hot tempers, but share a love of the Young & the Restless. Like many mothers and daughters, we've had our share of tears, but laughter too.

You only get one mom, and you don't get pick her. My mother and I didn't get along very well while I was growing up. I yearned for a "cool" mom - someone like Lucille Ball, who was my childhood hero. Now that I'm 30 and looking to have kids of my own, I realized that my mom was pretty cool. She didn't spoil me, she taught me to earn my way, work hard and be responsible. But she also showed me it's OK to laugh - especially at yourself. My mom worked hard for us kids (me and my younger brother), and wasn't always appreciated for the sacrifices she made. (She worked odd shift hours at a printing company.) But she was the one who made sure we had dentist appts lined up, and food on the table. My dad is more of a dreamer, chasing his heart, not always considered about the bottom line. They are no longer married to each other, although both have remarried.

I floss every day because my mom encouraged me to. I was rarely sick as a kid, and even if I was, I worked through it as often as I could. Speaking of work, I get my drive from her. We're both hard-workers and passionate - even if we're passionate about different things. I didn't have the happiest childhood, but I never had to go hungry (unless I was being punished for backtalking!) and I always had shelter and clothes.

I consider myself blessed to have shared my life with three amazing women: Grann, Oma and my mom. They influenced me in ways we all probably don't realize. They helped make the person I am.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom & Oma! And to Grann: I miss you.

Her SpecialTEA is TEA

logo used w/permission

With a brand new tea company on the market, Ami Soleau has been brewing what she loves and loving what she brews. That’s the motto of SpecialTea Brew, the tea company she formed in 2010.

Her business has been getting off the ground; she’s selling online with a successful and unique Web site, and using social networking sites – and word of mouth – to get her company noticed.

But there’s something – or rather, someone – missing. Ami’s on the hunt for a business partner, someone who loves promoting and marketing tea.

“Essentially I need a 50/50 partner in crime,” Ami said.  “This would not be me paying someone to do this but someone that wants to make this company their own with me.  Someone with a lot of passion like myself!”

Ami’s looking for a partner who has experience owning and operating a business, dealing with permits and licensing. But her ultimate biz partner would also be friendly and outgoing, someone who can “talk the talk and walk the walk” when it comes to knowing teas.

Currently SpecialTea Brew is an online-only tea shop based in Seattle, WA, but Ami said her future biz partner doesn’t need to be from the area. Eventually, she explained, she’d love to open up a brick and mortar shop, and therefore the biz partner would need to be close. But it’s not a requirement, not yet.

Ami’s ultimate partner would have to have these qualities, she explained:

• Down-to-earth
• Business savvy
• Knows and loves tea
• Knowledge of tea production and blending
• Experience in a small business setting
• Outgoing – not as shy as she is

Ami said she gets along with just about any personality, so attitude clashing would probably not be an issue. “I think you do need to get along to go into business,” she said, adding that difference of opinions can be a good, constructive part of the business.

Ami currently works for Whole Foods as an accountant, so she has been contacting vendors to sell her teas. She’s also been reaching out through Steepster.com and other sites to not only announce her tea company but get the word out about the employment opportunity.

If you think you have what it takes to work with Ami @ SpecialTea Brew or if you have questions about her company, please e-mail her at specialteabrew@yahoo.com.

SpecialTea Brew will be featured as a company profile on Keen Tea Thyme later this summer, so stay tuned for that. J

Check out SpecialTea Brew at http://www.specialteabrew.com/. SpecialTea Brew offers a wide selection of teas and accessories at great prices. Plus, there's a "how-to" brew guide here, that I'm sure you'll find handy: http://www.specialteabrew.com/instructions

New Venture: 52Teas & iHeartTeas

Our May CelebriTEA, Rachel Carter, has a new tea venture. Together with 52Teas.com, iHeartTeas has begun offering teas "Rescued from Retirement," such as the ever-popular Blueberry Cheese Danish.


Visit her store http://tinypay.me/ss0yorhb and check out the three teas available, as well as her other tea selections.


I should disclose that I made a purchase myself, just a few minutes ago, for Blueberry Cheese Danish. I've always wanted to try this one. My heart skipped a bit when I saw it available. :)


Please note you will have to pay additional shipping charges, unlike purchases from 52Teas, which includes shipping in the price. But for shipping in the US, I paid only $1.50, so it's not extreme. 


Other teas will be available as well...but for a limited time, so when you see a tea you want, grab it! :)

Exciting Things Happening Here - Stay in the Know

With May upon us and good news around the world - spring in the air, and a certain terrorist no longer among us - I am also happy to report that I am (almost) all better. I'm back to my working self, which means Keen Tea Thyme is back in business!

First, we've got a new company profile - Mad Pots of Tea. Check out the story by clicking on the company profile tab on the main page, or here: http://keenteathyme.blogspot.com/p/company-profile.html

Next, we've featured our first CelebriTEA, Rachel Carter - the voice behind www.iHeartTeas.com. Check out her story and learn more about this fave tea blogger and her new endeavors: http://keenteathyme.blogspot.com/p/celebritea.html

Stop by Tea Stain Art to see what's new with Dara Gold, and purchase one of your very own, limited run tea stain artwork: http://keenteathyme.blogspot.com/p/golds-tea-stain-art.html Send in your questions to this unique and talented artist!

May will feature more adventures of Ally, our Teaist Apprentice (check back on Fri., May 13 - oh no! Friday the 13th!) to see what she's been up to during the hiatus.

Also, I have a very special post I'm working on for Mother's Day. Don't forget, Mother's Day is this weekend!

And in between everything, we'll review and enjoy tea!

Got suggestions? Comments on my blog? Drop me a line at: keenteathyme@gmail.com

Thanks for stopping by! Enjoy your stay; have a great "thyme" being "keen" on tea!

How sweet is it? - Poll results

The results from April's poll are in! I asked what kind of sweetener (if any) folks used to sweeten their teas. I'm surprised by the number of purists - those of you who don't add any sweetener - good for you! Some of you selected "other," such as agave nectar, which I'm currently researching.

Here are the results:

Honey - organic variety or not. 4% I'm old school. Sugar. Cubed. 0% I'm cutting back on calories so it's Splenda or Equal for me.   9%  milk/creamer + sugar. 4% I'm into the sugar crystal craze - amber or white. 13% No sweetener. I’m a purist, baby. 50% Other.  18% Thanks all who voted! Don't forget to stop by and vote in May's poll: Why do you drink tea? Happy Brewing!

Missed out!

Darn it! I wasn't fast enough for the 52teas offering of White Chocolate Grasshopper and Hot Buttered Banana Bread! Let's petition for Frank to make more! :)

www.52teas.com

Teabean - a new kind of tea

logo used w/permission

Meet Craig Buntin, a former Olympic athlete and native Canadian, who is taking on tea in a new way - using coffee beans.

Yep, you read that correctly! Craig has created a new infusion of tea using coffee beans: Teabean. I've tried this infusion and it's definitely unique - and definitely tasty. Teabean combines roasted and nutty coffee beans with the bold, strong taste of chai tea for a marriage that is take charge and delicious. Teabean could be the gateway for coffee drinkers into the world of tea and vice versa. But how did this incredibly unique idea even get started?

1) This is a unique concept for tea. How did you come up with the idea? Why blend coffee and tea?

I was a full time Olympic figure skater for about 20 years and I came up with the idea while at a competition late in the 2008/2009 season. I tried a latte which was made from an under-roasted coffee bean and thought the concept was pretty cool. I tried to find some online but couldn't get any information anywhere. After months of frustration, I just figured I'd try to make it myself. I have been an avid coffee and tea drinker for years (coffee in the morning for the caffeine before training and tea at night for the flavor and health benefits) so experimenting at home with either one of the drinks was a pretty natural step.

2) How long did it take to craft the infusion? What did earlier versions taste like and why did you decide against them?

Under-roasting the beans gives them a grassy kind of flavor, which is pretty unique but I really felt that the process wasn't quite perfect. I had an idea of how to make it better but I knew I needed advice from industry experts, so I decided to speak to companies who might be able to help. I approached maybe 15 companies, 10 of which either didn't respond or laughed at me, four of which said "no thanks" and one that agreed to work with me in developing my vision for White Coffee. Together, we spent about six months tweaking the process. We experimented, with many methods of making the beans White but eventually discovered that by taking a coffee blend that has just the right amount of each flavor attribute and baking it, we could create something incredible.

In November 2009, while still in full training, I began selling bags of White Coffee to local Montreal cafes to be made as flavored lattes. These lattes were delicious, but I couldn't send them out to anyone as they had to be made a specific way by the barista.

By this point, I had been experimenting with baked White Coffee beans with teas, for cooking, you name it. I found that I could make some pretty amazing tea infusions that had the nutty taste and caffeine of White Coffee and the rich aroma of whichever tea I was blending it with. When I began infusing various blends of teas for their health benefits, I knew I had a winner.

3) Opening up a tea company doesn't just happen overnight. Why did you decide to open up a tea company? How long has it taken you from the conception to reality?

From the time I first thought about selling the White Coffee beans, to the first White Coffee - Chai infusion was about a year and a half. After the 2010 skating season, I retired from competition and really focused my attention on getting the new blend off the ground. I did the graphic design for the pouches and the boxes on my own and as well created the website and facebook site alone. I spent a lot of time on that stuff as I wanted to make sure that the Teabean look and feel was really reflective of how great the drink is. After that, there was the whole legal aspect of launching a company (incorporation, taxes, trademarks, etc), then I was off to the races! In February 2011 the new Teabean White Coffee Infusion was ready to go.

4) I noticed on your Web site that your tea is for sale online, but it also available in select Canadian shops. Any plans to provide your product to other shops around the globe (US and other countries)? Would you consider opening a store front, in Canada or elsewhere?

I would love to see Teabean all over the world! We are growing every week and I hope to begin establishing relationships in the US (and internationally) with companies that may be interested in helping to make that happen. While we grow, the goal is to be able to launch some of the other tea infusions have already been developed.

As for opening a store front, I could possibly see that happening someday, but I think there is a lot of work that needs to happen first. I really want to see the product available in cafes, restaurants and tea shops across the continent before looking at that option.

5) Why did you decide to sell the tea in bags versus loose? Do you plan on ever offering loose varieties?

I actually considered selling a "loose leaf" version of White Coffee Infusion, but the problem is this: it is confusing! It is tea, but it is made with coffee beans. I didn't want people taking it and throwing it into their home coffee makers. As other flavored infusions become available, I may reconsider it.

6) Speaking of varieties, you mentioned in your letter that other infusions are in the planning stages. Care to share about any of them?

Nope! :-P

All I'm going to say right now is that they are amazing. I know this because I drink them, and I really love them. I have come up with a short list based on the flavors and health benefits that I like but before I say anything, I want to hear from the online tea community. I want to hear what others like and their ideas on where to take the company.

7) You are a former Olympic athlete. Tell me about your life and your career before Teabean. (Do any of your skills come in handy with this new venture?)

Wow... I don't think I could handle the hand cramp that would come after the essay I would have to write to tell you all about my athletic career! Suffice to say, it was the experience of a lifetime. I was never the most talented but I worked very, very hard. My family and I sacrificed everything for my shot at the Olympics and I can't tell you how appreciative I am for everything that they, my coaches, my partners & friends did to help me get there.

That said, the skills that have come in handy have been hard work and dedication. I have always been very passionate about every goal I set and I know that if I apply the same attitude to Teabean as I did to my training, the company will be a great success.

8) What do you want people to understand most about your company?

That as of right now, everyone who wants to be a part of the team can be. If people like White Coffee, tell the owners and managers of their local cafes. If people have ideas for blends that they believe could be delicious, email me. If people have ideas on what types of packaging could be better, I really want to hear it. I would love to have current Teabean drinkers help grow the company and feel the same sense of pride that I feel when I see someone taste Teabean for the first time!

9) What do you hope to gain - other than profits - from your company?

Right now, I wake up in the morning thinking about Teabean. I go to bed thinking of ways I can make it better and ways that I can get new people to know about it. I am so passionate about this company and this product. As long as I am living with that kind of passion, the company is giving me everything that I need.

10) So where can people find this new infusion?

Website: http://teabeancoffee.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/teabeancoffee

Twitter: http://twitter.com/teabean_white

Phone: 514-931-1232

Snail Mail:

4148A Ste-Catherine O., Suite 141

Montreal, QC

H3Z 0A2

52teas Decaf Bold Masala Blend & Reblends

OK guys, get your wallets and tea cups ready. Frank @ 52teas has decided to reblend four fave teas AND introduce a Decaf Masala Blend! Holy cow!


Image from 52teas/used w/permission

Before you check out, there are four reblends available (my mouth is watering):

image from 52teas/used with permission

I can speak from experience - Pancake Breakfast is amazing! I am ordering another bag. And I've wanted to try White Chocolate Grasshopper (remember those cookies??) and Hot, Buttered Banana Bread. So I'm grabbing them now!

Frank's blends ALWAYS go fast, so get a move on, teaists! What are you waiting for?

Favorite Strawberry Teas

With strawberry season upon us, it's time for making strawberry tea - unless you are allergic, of course. (In that case, you have my deepest sympathy).

What are your favorite teas - hot & cold? I enjoy Teavana's Strawberry Lemonade - prefer cold. And Frank @ 52teas had me at Strawberry Pie Honeybush. Got any other favorites? Post here!

Welcome May!

May and June are two of my favorite months! I love the warmer air, the birds, even the bees. Capris, tank tops, shorts, skirts, sandals. (Sunblock!) I'm from SoCal, but live in MD, so I am no fan of winter. (Well less bugs are nice...) May and June are terrific months to welcome summer - and it's strawberry season too!

Thanks for all the kind thoughts about my surgery. Things went well and are looking up. (Perhaps that's the reason for my peppiness too!)

So I'm back on track with this blog. Here's what you can expect in the month of May:
-a new company profile (should post by May 5 and will run through the July holiday)
-weekly updates on what's going on at 52teas
-Ally - our Teaist Apprentice - will be back, exploring tea, tea ceremonies and the like. Keep sending in your questions!
-news from the tea world
-a new CelebriTEA! Hint: she just started her own tea biz too... more info later.
-more of my blends for sale (samples)
-so much more!

Got ideas, suggestions, comments...? E-mail me or post here. Let's see how much fun it is to be a Teaist!

We'll tea-off (heehee) - Happy Brewing!

Joy's Teaspoon - Co. Profile for March/April 2011

Company Profile for March/April 2011

There is joy in tea for Naomi Rosen, the creative force behind the new company, Joy's Teaspoon. The Las Vegas-based tea and spice company exists mainly in the online format - for now. But who is Joy? And where did this new company come from?

Naomi says she loves when people ask who Joy is. "Joy was my incredible mom who would have loved this company and what we are doing." Sadly, Naomi lost her mother in 2003, so the company is in her memory. Naomi says that while her mother did drink tea occasionally and cook with rare spices, the idea for Joy's Teaspoon's products weren't really inspired by her. But the idea of creating a tea company and joining the tea-lover community fits her mom's legacy. "She was all about friends and family and any reason to gather together." Joy's Teaspoon strives on that goal. "Joy's primary mission in life was to spend precious time with family and friends and we value the ability of our teas and spices to do just that."

Originally from Southern California, Naomi says she got the idea for starting her own store after visiting her sister in Chicago shortly after her mother passed away. "She was showing me around this cute little town she lived in. We walked from boutiques to a tea merchant to a spice house...and I loved the whole main street concept." That trip started her love of tea; she began drinking the teas she purchased there and the next few Christmas and birthday gifts were from that shop. Naomi fed her tea addiction by combing the internet for tea and spice production. "What innocently started out as fun little hobby became a passion for knowledge," Naomi says. After a visit to the World Tea Expo in Las Vegas, she and her husband started tossing the idea around. 

But family came first. Naomi gave birth to her first son and her family settled into life with a newborn, the idea still rolling around. Eventually Naomi and her husband decided to give it a try and officially opened Joy's Teaspoon in April 2010.

The company will be about a year old in April - and has been a success so far, thanks to Naomi's social marketing skills and reception in the online tea community. Joy's Teaspoon offers some of the best, high quality teas available. While there is no physical store, Naomi says the company does have two retail partners that carry a condensed version of the products - Ganesha Center and the Spirit Within U. Naomi says operating a physical location would be a challenge. With the economic climate it's a tough time around the country - as anyone knows.

Plus, Naomi is expecting her second son (due any minute, possibly as I write this article!). "I adore being a mom," Naomi says. "I worry that opening a physical location would take entirely too much time away from them. So for now we function successfully online!"

So what kinds of tea does Joy's Teaspoon offer? Joy's Teaspoon offers an array of tea from oolong to herbal. First off, Naomi says she doesn't blend the tea herself at all. "The majority of my vendors are quite talented on their own merits and I do no pretend to know how to blend better than they!" Joy's Teaspoon strives for quality with a capital "Q." She samples everything she sells, and keeps other factors in mind, such as a environmentally friendly focus. "Every effort is made to recycle as many materials as we can including paper, cardboard, ink cartridges, and glass and metal product containers."   Check out the Web site for more information on the JOYful Environmental Program.

Naomi has spent the past few months getting the word out about her tea company - and doing what Joy's Teaspoon does best, meeting with others about tea. She is the primary administrator of the Las Vegas/Henderson Tea Lovers Group (a badge proudly displayed on her Web site). "I enjoy taking advantage of being able to sit down with my neighbors and enjoy a cup of tea." The group sponsors tea tasting events through Las Vegas and Henderson through libraries, health and spiritual living centers and we partnering with local businesses. "It's a great opportunity to share with those around me that have similar interests or are curious about the wide world of tea."

Naomi is happy to share her wisdom on Joy's Teaspoon too; she sends out a newsletter every month or so updating customers on new tea and spice additions, upcoming events and industry news. 

She didn't start Joy's Teaspoon solely for profit, Naomi adds. The company was "a way for me to share my passion with the people around me. I have made some great friendships via this industry. The information I have collected, for my own little mind, has made me much more passionate about the products I carry and use on a daily basis." Naomi explains that her hope is for Joy's Teaspoon to grow into a solid business that can provide opportunities for her children in the future.

Naomi Rosen's life is so different than it was a year ago, before Joy's Teaspoon was a reality. "Since launching Joy's Teaspoon, my life is non-stop and I wouldn't have it any other way. I love the challenge of launching a web-based business and yet still finding personal ways to connect with fellow tea drinkers and home chefs," Naomi says.

Join Naomi on Joy's Teaspoon, or check out what people are saying about her teas on steepster.com. Try some of the teas available or just browse Joy's Teaspoon's Web site to see what's available. Just make sure you follow Joy's Teaspoon's motto: put a little JOY in your life.

Update 4/4/11: Joy's Teaspoon turns one year old! YAY! At the same time, Naomi and her family welcomed a new baby to the family, little Gavin. In celebratory mode, Naomi is offering up an anniversary sale for the month of April, so get these deals while you can: http://joysteaspoon.com/prices-drop.php.

Moroccan Mint - Joy's Teaspoon

Quick Notes - Joy's Teaspoon:

Site: http://joysteaspoon.com/

E-mail: naomi@joysteaspoon.com

Toll-free: 866-795-1411

Online community: www.blog.joysteaspoon.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!joystsp

Twitter: @JoysTeaspoon

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/naomi-rosen/8/467/838

Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/Las-Vegas-Henderson-Tea-Lovers/

Steepster: http://steepster.com/teas/joys-teaspoon

Photo/Logo used with permission.

Page Info:

This page is dedicated to company profiles. The Page Tab will be the company's name. Please note, I receive no money - nor even free tea! - from highlighting these companies. These articles are based on interviews and e-mails with the owners/proprietors. Please note this marketing tool is meant for smaller, individual companies.

Every other month, Keen Tea Thyme will feature a tea company profile. March/April, May/June, July/August, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec. After the company's profile changes to the next month(s), the profile will become a regular post and will stay in the archives.

If you'd like your tea company to be featured, or there's a company you'd like to see here e-mail me for terms, guidelines and more info: keenteathyme@gmail.com. 

Quest for Earl Grey

One of my tea friends recently had a birthday. She's an Earl Grey fiend, so I purchased a bunch of EG samplers for her, from Adagio and other places.

I decided to try EG Lavender by Adagio for myself. I've tried other EG Lavender varieties - such as Metro Teas - and enjoyed the cuppas. I call EG Lavender the EG Gateway. I'll get there some day, folks.

But not with this variety. This doesn't taste anything like lavender! It brews up syrupy sweet - meaning it smells like syrup. And not in the way that the awesome Pancake Breakfast from 52teas does (which is my latest obsession). It's bizarre. I'm going to try to brew it w/less time, maybe that will help.

Honestly, I'm a little embarrassed that I trusted Adagio's EGs for a b-day present.

Agave Nectar - how sweet is it?

What is this stuff? I keep hearing about agave nectar as a sweetener for tea. I hadn't really heard about it until recently (other than its use in tequila production), but I'm learning it's no fad. I have the world's biggest sweet tooth, so I had to "investigate" this stuff to see what it's all about.

According to http://www.allaboutagave.com/, agave nectar is the sweet stuff found in spiky, cacti-like plants that grow in desert climates, particularly in Southern Mexico. Once an agave has grown to at least seven years old, the plant's leaves are cut off, revealing the pina of the plant - or the core. After harvesting, the pina resembles a huge pineapple and can weigh up to 150 pounds. (Yikes!)

Sap is then extracted from that pina/core, filtered and heated at a low temperature, which melts the carbs into sugars. There is light and dark agave nectars, but both can be made from the same plant.

All About Agave states that the taste is similar to honey. But I want to know from those of you who use agave nectar. What do you think? How does it taste? How would you rate it as a sweetener - for tea or otherwise?

Also, what is the best brand of agave nectar? Got any favorite places to purchase this pina puree?



 

Teaist Apprentice - on hiatus

Dear Readers - 

One of my favorite features about this blog is the story of Ally - a fictional character embarking on a journey to become a Teaist Apprentice. I have been posting updates on her adventures weekly, but have to take a break due to health reasons.

Many of you know I suffer from migraines, and had a recent spinal injury. Consequently I am in a lot of pain lately. I am seeing a doctor next week to discuss surgery options.

In the meantime, I have to take it easy. I will still be posting and updating, but I am not feeling as creative as usual so I'm putting the Teaist Apprentice on hold. (Plus I'm on lots of medication for the pain.)

Ally will return in May. Look forward to the following posts, and much more:

• participating in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony
• discussing how the earthquake affected Japan's tea market
• traveling to China to harvest tea crops 
• learning India's tea culture
• answering your questions 

Please continue to send questions for Ally to discuss in her adventures: keenteathyme@gmail.com, as well as suggestions for her travels. I appreciate all the feedback I've gotten so far! Thanks!

OK, that's a wrap. We'll see Ally in May! :)

Autumn by 52teas

Autumn blend by 52teas;
photo used with permission

This week's blend is reminiscent of autumn - hence the name!

What's in this blend? Here's what Frank had to say:

"I started with a nice caffeine-free rooibos base for that tinge of woodiness it has which I associate with leaves crackling underfeet and old trees battening down the hatches for the approaching winter. I added some fresh, organic cinnamon chips, and bits of organic vanilla beans, because what is fall without a little spice? Then I finished everything off with natural honey, vanilla and cinnamon flavors, in that order. The result is autumn in a cup, as I see it. I look forward to hearing what you think."

Grab it here now - while it lasts! And check out his awesome collection of teas while you place your order.


For more information on Frank, visit this post here and stay tuned to Keen Tea Thyme. We'll feature 52teas in the future. 

Frank @ 52teas has a way with tea

Those at Steepster know the power and wonder of the wonderful Frank, who is THE tea blender at 52teas.com, as well as the proprietor of Zoomdweebie's, a popular tea bar in the Midwest.

Frank has created all kinds of wonderful blends: Pancake Breakfast, Strawberry Pie (honeybush), Coconut Cheesecake (honeybush) and many, many others. He blends one new, unique tea each week - hence the name "52teas." The catch? Each are available in a limited run, so you have to jump on the ones you want until they are gone for good. (Sometimes you can beg him to reblend in the steepster forums, but most of the teas are limited edition.)

Frank does have a permanent collection of blends - those which proved to be popular among online retailers and in his shop. (You can find Strawberry Pie there and it is divine!)

Frank and his awesome power with honeybush teas will be featured on this blog in the future, but right now I have spoken with him about featuring his weekly creations here. He was happy to oblige, so starting this week you can view his creations here; click on the images and you'll be transported to his site where you can purchase the blends. Make sure you mention you heard about the blend here. :)

• Week of April 18 Blend: Autumn