A cup of tea with Margo

This blog is all about the things in life so many of us need to slow down and enjoy, such as, family, the seasons, food, music, and whatever else causes inspiration. I hope to write as often as I can and it is my desire for you to be able to take a break and enjoy my entries with a cup of tea.

Some History and Irish Stew RSS

  Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Ahh... St. Patrick’s Day... a day of celebrating the color green, shamrocks, and everything Irish. Each year it comes and goes with barely a hint of our notice except for the obligatory green garment we’re compelled to wear.

But, if you knew the true story behind St. Patrick, I think you’d find it pretty fascinating.

First of all, Patrick wasn’t even Irish. He was born in Britain in 390 AD to an aristocratic family and wasn’t a Christian growing up. At 16, however, all that changed.

Patrick was kidnapped and sent to Ireland to work as a slave. It was there, through hard work and trials, Patrick gave his heart to Christ and decided to live a life of deep devotion to God. Patrick eventually escaped on a pirate ship back to his family and was home again safe.

But, he heard the voice of God telling him to go back to Ireland. He again returned, became a priest and spent the rest of his life spreading the gospel message to the people. History has it he even preached to the Druids and turned them away from their pagan rites and rituals. 

Did he really drive all the snakes out of Ireland?

Not to burst your bubble...but it’s just a myth. While it’s true there are no snakes in Ireland today, fact is... there never were. Surrounded by icy ocean waters, the country is too cold for them to migrate there.

More than likely, the snakes were mostly symbolic. Driving out snakes probably meant driving out the pagan, evil influences of the age in Ireland. Patrick was vital to the spread of Christianity and to a legacy of faith for the Irish people.

Other legends such as Patrick using three leafed shamrocks to explain the holy trinity are very interesting stories but have little factual basis. They’re myths also.

Nevertheless, the true story of St. Patrick, I believe, is a portrait of courage and steadfast devotion. St. Patrick was a brave man whose life of winning souls is a true testimony of what one man can accomplish with God’s help.

This holiday, be sure to think of the real man behind the myth and what he meant to the soul of Ireland. It’s not just about leprechauns and shamrocks.

Remember the true meaning of St. Patrick’s and don’t forget to have some good,

 Irish Stew to celebrate. 

Mmmm. Sooo Good.

Margo


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Like Mint? RSS

  Sunday, August 15, 2010

One sprig of fresh mint in your ice tea and you’ll be hooked for life. That’s how it started for me.  I soon found myself putting it in fruit salad, spring rolls and even luscious chocolate desserts. Mint is the perfect flavor for adding a little zing to everything you can think of.

It’s even been used for centuries for medicinal purposes and its wonderful aromatic qualities.  The more popular varieties today I’ve seen are spearmint, apple, and chocolate (yes, it does taste a little like chocolate mint). Mint is refreshing and most people absolutely love it.

If you’ve never grown mint before, here are some tips you may want to follow:

  • Plant it in well drained, non-acidic soil, preferably in shade or in sun for some varieties.
  • Keep in containers to keep its spread in check.  Also, separate varieties or they may lose individual flavors.
  • Keep it moist. Mint is a thirsty herb, so be sure to keep it well watered.
  • Propagate each spring by taking fresh cuttings from the base of the root and putting it in water. Plant in pots when the roots of the plant begin to grow.

Mint is a great herb to grow. It’s a cinch to take care of and a refreshing flavor.

Try it this summer…I’m know you’ll be hooked, too.

Margo
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The Perfect Pot of Tea RSS

  Friday, May 28, 2010
I’m often asked how to prepare the perfect pot of tea. It seems an odd question since tea making appears so simple, but believe it or not, there is a certain knack to it that some people have and others can learn.

My advice is make it simple and add your own touch and personality along the way.
  • Fill your kettle with fresh, cold filtered water and bring to a boil.
  • Pick out your favorite teapot (you must have a favorite) and fill it with hot tap water.  
  • Let it warm until your water boils in the kettle.  Then pour out the warm water.
  • Add the best gourmet, loose leaf tea you can find to the pot, about one teaspoon per serving.
  • Add your water and steep for 3-5 minutes. Make sure you time the steeping process.
  • Pour through a strainer into your favorite cup and enjoy with a friend or a good book.
Enjoy,

Margo

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Savor the Moment RSS

  Monday, May 17, 2010

Have you ever wondered where all the precious moments in your life go?

I often do, and I wonder if I’ve taken life for granted or I’ve savored every good thing God has given me. Sometimes we’re in such a hurry, running around from activity to activity, that I think we fail to stop and enjoy the here and now.

Psalms says “You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Each man's life is but a breath.”

And, nothing could be truer…we are all just a breath that will soon vanish. God has given us a life to fill with what we choose and just a short time to make the most of it.

Question is…how will we spend it? In busyness and stress or in deep appreciation to God for His gift of life and for giving us the love of others?

As I go through my days, I want to appreciate every moment in life and the ones who make it worth living. I encourage you to do the same.

Today, thank God for your blessings and for the gift of life. May you make the most of your days and honor Him by savoring each moment that you live.

Blessings,

Margo

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Change is Good RSS

  Monday, May 10, 2010

It’s funny how so many us are stuck in the same daily, boring routine. We eat the same food, do the same activities…and rarely do we ever experiment with something new. No wonder so many of us get so restless and tired of our daily life.

We’re afraid to do anything different because that means we must venture into the unknown. Know anyone like that?

I believe it’s important we get out and try new things…for the sake of change if nothing else. At the worst you can say you don’t like it, but at least you tried it, and then you can move on to something new.

To tell you the truth, that’s one of the reasons I bought the Pink House restaurant and feel so passionate about our purpose. It’s so unique and different…I think it matches my spirit of adventure and trying new things. It’s also a way I can bring the spice of life to others and help them enjoy some of its simple pleasures.

As I live my life, I pray that I don’t get so bogged down in a daily routine that I just trudge through…going through the motions. I want to enjoy the good things God has given me and be able to share them with others. I want to try new food. Go to new places.

I want to keep a certain sense of adventure in my life.

I hope you will also…and remember to stay forever young in your attitude and heart.

Blessings,

Margo


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The Mother of Invention… RSS

  Monday, May 03, 2010
Most of us love ice tea, but I recently came across a bit of trivia I thought was interesting.

Did you know iced tea was invented by a tea salesman just on the spur of the moment? You’ve heard the saying necessity is the mother of invention, right?

Well, as the story goes, Richard Blechynden, a tea plantation owner, went to the St. Louis World’s Fair back in 1904 to peddle his tea, which was, of course, prepared hot. But, since it was in the middle of summer, no one wanted to try it. Naturally, they were too busy drinking cold drinks like lemonade and other beverages.

That gave him the idea of pouring his hot tea over some ice and calling it iced tea. Long story short, they loved it! In fact, the new concoction was the hit of the Fair and brought hundreds of people to his booth for a refreshing sip of the new drink.  

It’s been a pretty popular item since and has taken different forms over the years…from southern ice tea (with lots of lemon and sugar) to Rhubarb or even Thai Iced Tea. I just recently saw this online and thought it looked interesting…it’s called Peach Ginger Iced Tea. 

Okay, it’s not your mom’s iced tea, but try it anyway—I think you’ll like it.

You’ll need a quart sized pitcher, 4 cups boiling water, 4 tea bags (black tea is good), 1 ripe peach, 1 small piece of ginger, peeled and sliced.

First remove the pit from the peach and cut it into quarters. Add the peach to the pitcher. Sprinkle the ginger on the peaches, add the teabags, and pour the boiling water over it. Let it steep for around ten minutes and then remove them. Just leave the peach and the ginger in and serve chilled…relax and enjoy!

I hope you like it and find time to enjoy it this wonderful time of the season!

Margo


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A simple thought on Mothers RSS

  Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Have you ever stopped to think about what true beauty is?

Personally, I think our society has it all wrong. We think beauty is about how we look physically, but there’s much more to it. As Proverbs tells us, “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (31:30).

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in what society tells us is beautiful. But, true beauty, comes from God. We are made beautiful by the love we have for others and how we treat them.

That’s why I think all mothers are beautiful. Sure, we get those wrinkles around the eyes and bad hair days…but, remember beauty is not about perfection. It’s what’s on the inside, in our hearts, that makes us beautiful.

Remember your mom this Mother’s Day and tell her how beautiful she is!

Margo

PS  Don’t forget these Pink House Events on Mother’s Day weekend...

Sat. May 8th 10am

There will be a special Mother/Daughter Tea and Talent Show at Grace Church on May 8th. The Tea/Brunch will be catered by the Pink House and will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the Main Auditorium.  Admission price is $10.  


Sun. May 9th—Mother’s Day

Remember to bring your beautiful mom to our special Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 9th from 10am - 2pm. We’ll have our full menu available along with our famous delicious desserts and a few chef specials for mom, so make sure you make plans to come by.  

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Springtime at the Pink House and reminders for you to get the most out of your Springtime! RSS

  Monday, April 19, 2010

Here they all come…those delightful sights and sounds of spring. If you’re like me, you can’t help but absolutely love this time of year.

Everything’s in bloom, and the incredible fragrance of flowers wafting through the air is heavenly. To me, spring is more than just a season after winter and an opening act for summer. It’s an important symbol of God’s renewing hope and grace for us all.

Believe me, if you’ve ever felt dead and lifeless, especially during the lost days of winter, now’s the time to start enjoying the renewing spirit of the season.

Here are a few of my tips for making the most of this time of year:

  • Get out of the house. You’ve got to get out of your air conditioning and go smell some sweet air outside. Believe me, you don’t won’t to become a couch potato who only watches Oprah all day.
  • Now, that you’re outside, go for a walk around the neighborhood. Run through your neighbor’s sprinklers. Say hello to a couple of squirrels, I don’t care. This is spring…you’re allowed to act a little crazy.
  • Work in your garden. Helping things grow and look beautiful can do great things for your overall mindset. You’ll also avoid being called lazy by your neighbors.
  • Do a little spring cleaning. They say it really helps us to relax to avoid the stress that comes with clutter.
  • Sit on your patio, drink some ice herbal tea and take in God’s marvelous and wonderful  creation. You’ll be amazed how just resting and taking in nature will rejuvenate your mind and body.


I can’t tell you how these things have helped me. But, above all, take some time and thank God for those in your life that make it worth living. They are the true source of what brings us joy each day of our lives.

Blessings,

Margo

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Great food and friends...the story behind the Pink House. RSS

  Monday, April 05, 2010

Ever notice how eating great food brings you closer to the ones you love?

It just naturally seems to bring people closer…and build intimacy...no matter the situation.

I remember as a child watching my mother as she cooked our evening family meals. She would be busy in the kitchen for hours, cooking up a storm, because she had a genuine instinct for what her food could do—draw us closer and reconnect us with one another. She knew it meant more than sitting and eating at the dinner table…it was about being together and building intimacy with those we care most about.


Through the years, I’ve held that same view…and believe in the power of great food and great conversation. That’s why I bought the Pink House in 2007…to create a place for friends and family to gather over terrific cuisine and a wonderful gourmet pot of tea. I want all my guests to feel free to unwind and relax as they sample the best lunch, plus some of the simple pleasures like chatting and sitting for a spell.

So, come by anytime…you’re always welcome. We’ll set your place at the dinner table just like mom used to do.

Remember, you’re with family now…just sit back, relax and connect with them in ways you haven't in years.

Blessings,

Margo


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Guess what my favorite color is? RSS

  Monday, March 29, 2010

I’ve often wondered how colors can impact our emotions.

Studies show that the color blue can actually lower our blood pressure and heart rate. While red tends to speed things up and excite us a bit. Green gives us a refreshing retreat from the busyness of life and revives us with thoughts of hope and growth. And, did you know… Yellow can trigger certain things for us like focus, feelings of joy and organization?

Colors can have a significant effect on our mood and frame of mind without us even realizing it.

I guess you already know what my favorite color is…yes, it’s pink. I’ve always liked the color even as a child and now in my adulthood it’s still my favorite. Pink is often considered the softer side of red. It’s the color we associate most with everything sweet in this life…cotton candy, bubble gum and all things delicate and feminine.

It’s also the most romantic color. Most women I know associate it with charm and romantic love. It represents the desire we all feel to love and be loved.  

For me, the color pink also makes me think of spring. I recently ran across these lines by Rupert Brooke from The Old Vicarage, Granchester. I love how the words just perfectly set the mood for the season and yes…it talks about my favorite color, pink.

 Just now the lilac is in bloom,
All before my little room;
And in my flower-beds, I think,
Smile the carnation and the pink; All before my little room; And in my flower-beds, I think, Smile the carnation and the pink;

Isn’t God’s incredible design just breathtaking? The world is truly His canvas.

Blessings to you and your wonderful spring with all the colors God has created.

Margo


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