Its such an English thing to drink tea and I for one am mad about it. George Orwell even wrote a whole essay on the subject called A Nice Cup Of Tea which takes you through the 11 outstanding points of a cup of tea. Now its not for me to take George's words so if you are interested in his thoughts type that into any search engine and you will find his divine essay.

Anyway, the crux of his essay was this: milk before or after teabag? It is was unites and divides us a nation, as humanity. I am a 'milk after teabag' kinda girl but don't worry I won't hold it against you if you like yours the other way around, although I may be a little perplexed. But so much more perplexing is people how don't drink tea. I just don't trust them. What is that all about? My ex boyfriend was a builder who didn't drink tea and that was frankly disturbing. We soon parted company. I think it was for the best.

I think our relationship with beverages can be crafted by our work habits. I was a carer for the elderly for many years and it was there I formed my deep love for the teapot. It became a ritual with my little old ladies, putting the pot on was a bonding exercise, a little something they could do for me as I was helping with their personal care or house work. There are so many colloquialisms that come from this warm beverage, tea and sympathy is probably the best known and the most adhered to. I have lost count of the low times in my life where tea was served.

So practical tips for tea, my favourite is to keep a large selection of tea in your home to cater for every time of day and night. Always, I repeat, always start with a standard cup of Breakfast tea (with Caffeine) and put the milk in after the tea bag. It just tastes better that way, trust me. For lunch time teas I suggest something a little fruity to clear the palate after dinner, maybe a ginger and lemon Twinnings? Or a Raspberry maybe? Choose to compliment your meal not contrast.

Another tip top tip for tea is to warm the cup. I learnt this from my little old ladies and boy were they right. Just tip in a little bit of boiled water into the cup and swirl around for 30 seconds. It'll make your beverage feel warmer for longer. Straight after work it has to be back to a nice Earl Grey, something a little indulgent, preferably without milk and a slice of lemon, the traditional way. Last thing at night I suggest Jasmine, its so soothing and relaxing.

Tea has been with me through the best and worst of times. I love it. From the fruity caffeine free teas that are great last thing at night to the gorgeous green teas from China, right through to a milky cup of English builders tea (one sugar please) to wake you up in the morning. Try, love and enjoy them all.

To tea! Here here. xx