In Praise of the Old!

As I take over the new building on Main Street, I find myself marveling at the old wood floors, tin ceilings, and most of all – the wonderful smell of ‘age’, ‘history’, and ‘the past’.

newstore1a — Future Home of 9 Lives Tea House/Cowgirl Chocolates

I grew up with much older parents. My mom and dad were born in the early 20’s and my grandmother in 1880’s. Because I cam along so late, she was the only grandparent I had the opportunity to know. She was one of my best friends. I think we were a lot alike, she and I. She was wise, kind-hearted, and mischievous all rolled into a just under 5 foot tall package. We were definitely kindred spirits.

Antiques were everywhere in our house and as I was able to purchase my own house, the old, recycled furniture became a part of my household collection. There wasn’t one particular style I liked, so it all was a mix and match set. At the time, I owned my first house in New England. A very dangerous place for an antique lover like myself. Many weekends were spent scouring the historical towns and shops for a piece I just had to have.

My aunt and uncle were antique dealers and their house was full of stuff. They ran their business out of an old Victorian home in California. I used to love visiting. The smell of the old furniture was intoxicating – for me anyway. I used to dream – someday, maybe I will have my own antique building, or antique store.

I believe that is what drew me to this building on the Main Street square. The first thing that hits you when you open the door to the loft or the store is the smell of old, aged wood. It never ceases to bring a smile to my face, and a feeling of thankfulness for being the lucky one to be able to have this opportunity to open my first storefront in this building and to be able to live above the business.

However, today, I began to worry – “will this wood aroma affect or permeate my tea?” Quality, loose leaf teas are easily affected by light, moisture, and smells. Or, then I thought, “would my tea possibly affect the aroma of the wood in this building?”

As with everything that this building has experienced in its’ 140 plus years, I believe the teas will seep into the old wood doors, concrete floors, and tin ceilings. The aromas will compliment each other and create a whole new aroma experience.

That’s what makes this place such a perfect choice for the new store. Between the musty, smoky wood, the fresh tea leaves or the smell of a fresh brewed cup, AND the delicate, gourmet chocolate that will be added with the addition of the Cowgirl Chocolate company, I have a feeling I will find myself having to shoo the customers on their way.

I can’t wait to open the doors to this culinary and aromatic experience. It will be wonderful to see our customers lingering and enjoying all of the product choices.

My vision and plans include creating a true cafe’ experience. I have over 26 tea classes to offer for folks that wish to learn more about loose leaf teas brought in from all over the world. And, because each year brings new flavors, the classes will continuously be anew. The nuances and varieties between countries and tea regions never ceases to amaze me. Like a fine wine, tea is paired with different foods and each influences the flavor and experience of each other.

We should be open early 2018 – there are still so many things to do, but maybe I can sneak in a couple of classes in for anyone that wants to dip their toe in the world of tea. Follow us on Facebook or follow this blog for any announcements. I am so looking forward to sharing what I know with my customers.