“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.” -C.S. Lewis

A sweet friend of mine recently informed me that January is National Hot Tea Month. How did I not already know this? Thankfully, we had ample opportunities to celebrate last week — with multiple tea parties in multiple locations.

One tea party included this darling little 3-year-old friend that my oldest was babysitting.

My youngest was a guest at a tea party with her friend and her friend’s grandma. Meanwhile, I served a tea luncheon to my oldest and one of her best friends.

And then tonight three of us had a little post-Paddington movie tea party. I won’t spoil the movie for you, but I must note that it is quite delightful and includes a very memorable scene in an antique shop during which the bear and Mrs. Brown are served tea from an enchanting toy train. It is simply magical!

This week we aim to have at least one tea party a day, during which my youngest will likely continue to practice speaking with an English accent. Yes, we are indeed Anglophiles.

Homemade scones with Devonshire cream, crust-less cucumber sandwiches and Walker shortbread cookies are some of our most favorite items to enjoy alongside a cup of hot tea. And for the tea itself, well, we have some wonderful connections at a great place called TeaSource, which serves hot tea by the pot and also sells an extensive variety of loose leaf teas. Three of our favorites that we brought home — all black tea blends — are Georgia Sunshine, Blueberry Fields, and Roasted Chestnut. I hope to try the Fireside Spice, too.

Happy tea-sipping!