Yesterday morning, I wandered across campus for a meeting with someone I kind of knew, but not really. I was very early (on account of my own general confusion) and she had just arrived, but
as soon as she unlocked her office door, she offered me a cup of tea.
I enjoyed the tea, strongly vanilla. But the unexpected social pause it brought was even more delightful. I arrived prepared for spreadsheets and action items, and instead found a few minutes to talk about maps, family, careers. I felt more comfortable with my colleague, more engaged with our work conversation. Maybe her general open demeanor would have made it a pleasant meeting regardless, but I think the tea set a friendly, personal tone often absent from offices and conference rooms.
I've had other beverage moments with colleagues -- sing-along tea times with Kelsey, Very Important Meetings at the Faculty Club, perhaps a party with a few too many drinks (I do *not* recommend this as a team-building strategy). But maybe I'll keep a basket of tea around for visitors.
I'm not really a huge fan of tea -- the taste anyway. While I love the idea of fresh herbs and spices seeping in a steamy mug, I'm always a bit underwhelmed, finding the overall taste bitter, watered down and not very fulfilling. Guess I'll always be a coffee over tea kind-o-gal.
Traditional Medicinals have always been my go-to when I'm sick. I can't recommend them enough. All of the blends are caffeine free and organic. While the taste might not always leave you ready for a refill, I really truly believe they work. Give em' a try next time you're under the weather. And, if those fail, you can always try my salad bowl spa ;)
