Chirp-A-Tea Chirp
Dear Tea Friend,
Hospitality flows from the heart and in the
heart of downtown Latta, South Carolina it flows freely. Imagine
life at a slower pace. Imagine friends and neighbors who care about
each other and take the time to visit together. Imagine a place
where they can congregate to do that visiting, a place where
everyone is welcome. Well, the folks in Latta, South Carolina don't
have to imagine. They just drop into R.J. K. Frames and Things.
Every Monday thru Saturday from 8:00 am till 8:00 pm Shirley and
Richard Kopituk host friends and neighbors who drop in at the store
for coffee and conversation.
Shirley found out about Carolina Parakeet Fine Teas and called to
order a few tins to add to her store's inventory. We have just
introduced the tea and, to promote it, are doing a few select
2005 Carolina Parakeet Fine Tea Premiere Tea-Tasting events.
When Shirley called, we got on so well over the phone that I
suggested we come out to Latta and do one. She agreed, and I am so
glad it worked out.
We arrived around 11:00 am and set up our table just inside the
door, arranging everything needed to prepare tea for those who came
in to sample. At first things were slow and we had time to talk with
Shirley and Richard. They shared information about Latta's history
and noteworthy sites. My husband and son took off with the camera to
do the walking tour Shirley told us about. I stayed to conduct the
tea tasting and traffic began to pick up. I had the opportunity to
meet and have tea with so many nice people. They all spoke fondly of
how the gentlemen in the town arrive early every morning for coffee
and sit around the store's round table talking about politics,
religion, or whatever. Later in the morning as the men begin to
disperse the women wander in to take their turn at the table.
The day we spent there was like balm to my spirit. Witnessing the
ease and sincere warmth with which each person who arrived was
welcomed by those already present confirmed that the unpretentious
hospitality of the South of my youth is alive and well, residing in
the hearts of townspeople like those in Latta.
Wishing you a pleasant teatime,
Donna Siemen
RECIPE
Iced Fruit Tea
- 6 teaspoons Carolina Parakeet English Breakfast Tea
- 2 quarts spring water
- 1 11.5-ounce can frozen cranberry-raspberry juice < orange-pineapple-apple frozen can 11.5-ounce>
- Additional spring water
Boil the spring water and pour over the 6 teaspoons of
Carolina Parakeet English Breakfast Tea. Steep for 8-10 minutes.
Strain the tea into a gallon pitcher. Add juices and additional
spring water to equal 1 gallon and stir. Serve over ice.
Tea Tip
June is National Iced Tea month, so offer your family and
guests iced tea instead of soft drinks. For new refreshing flavors
try iced tea recipes like the one above.
Etiquette Reminder
A guest at a party or event may not always have the benefit
of a personal introduction, as the host and/or hostess may at times
be busy with others. It is always appropriate to politely introduce
yourself to other guests. 
