I'd like to talk about tea for a moment because I just had the most wonderful cup and since I can't pour one for you I'll have to put into words just how special it really was. And no I'm not losing my mind, I am simply enjoying the simple moments in life a little more as it is my resolve for 2009 to spend time focusing less on things that I cannot change and more on things that I often overlook that would make my life a little sweeter. Noticing the little things. For instance, I saw beauty in my afternoon today and captured it in a photograph just for you...

I've seen THE O DOR many times but never once did I consider purchasing it because I figured it's just another tea in a pretty container with an expensive price tag. Wrong! It's heaven in a tin and I'm so happy that I gave it a chance. As I sat on my sofa this afternoon taking a break -- sipping tea, flipping through a magazine, and admiring the garden roses a friend delivered on Saturday, I felt at peace and happy despite that it's a Monday and well, who really loves Monday. Can you smell the bergamot, vanilla, marigold, and jasmine in my green and black tea? It's mixed with the scent of garden roses... If you can, may I suggest buying yourself a small bouquet, some tea, and 20 minutes to relax with your favorite book or magazine either today or sometime this week? You won't have a single regret...

A comfortable mere 20 minutes dedicated to me was an amazing pick-me-up and a great way to begin a new week. Try to notice the little things today...

"I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all." -- Laura Ingalls Wilder

Do you have a favorite morning or afternoon ritual? What is it? Afternoon tea is mine. It was coffee but I've learned to appreciate a cup of black tea and so glad that I did.

(images by holly becker for decor8)