Tea was never just something we drank. It was part of the rhythm of the day. In the mornings, mid-morning, after lunch, and again in the afternoon. On colder days, it was something to warm your hands as much as anything else. It was simply there, woven into everyday life. On weekends, there was almost always a gathering. Sometimes we hosted. Sometimes we visited. Family and close friends would come together, and tea was always part of it. It was never served on its own.