Maxines Tea Mysteries

Tea for what ails you

2012-01-23T11:47:00.000-08:00

I usually don't catch colds or flu, but this year it seems they have caught me. I have a scratchy throat, and my voice sounds more like a fog horn than a human voice. I don't have fever or chills or aches, just not much energy.
So, I am drinking tea with lemon and honey, lots and lots of tea. Stash Tea makes a very nice blend of peach and ginger tea and also lemon and ginger and I've been drinking alot of those. Ginger is supposed to be beneficial for sore throats.
Hope you all keep drinking your tea, it really does help ward off colds and flu. I'm sure the amount of tea I drink on a daily basis has helped me stay well in the past and is probably why I only have a slight case of whatever this is now.
I am planning on attending a tea luncheon at a tea house in Rancho Cucamonga on Friday, so I must be 100% by then!

Tea and Hospitality

2012-01-16T15:24:00.000-08:00

Did you ever notice that the word "Hospitality" ends with the sound of the word "tea?" A coincidence? I think not.
There's just something so friendly and comforting about sharing a cup of tea with a friend. Tea can't be rushed, for one thing. You have to bring the water to a boil and then wait for the tea to steep a few minutes. That gives one enough time to fill a plate with cookies or cake and make your guest feel welcome.
The day's happenings then are shared as you relax, unwind and enjoy sharing a cup of tea with a friend.
I like to keep some scones in the freezer so I can invite someone for tea on the spur of the moment.

How to Eat a Scone

2012-01-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Scones. I love them! Scones come in different sizes and shapes. Some are like biscuits, some more like cookies and some have a more cake like textures. I love them all!
To add to the enjoyment of eating these delicious treats, one adds lemon curd, jam, and/or Devonshire Cream to them. But just what is the proper way togo about eating a scone? Here's a short lesson, Scone Eating 101.

Just remember that scones are finger food. They are not to be eaten with a fork. The correct way to eat a scone is to break it apart. Never cut a scone in half with a knife, always break it. The lemon curd, preserves and cream should be placed to one side of your plate. Then add a little dab to the corner of the scone as you take a bite. It is not correct to spread each side with your knife. Just dab and enjoy each bite. Mmmm.

January - Hot Tea Month

2012-01-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

January is a time for new beginnings, new dreams and new resolutions or goals. For many of us, taking better care of our health was at the top of the list. January is also national Hot Tea Month, and tea is a very fitting way to begin striving for a year of good health.
There are detox teas, teas that aid in digestion, and teas that are high in antioxidents and vitamin C.
Celebrate National Hot Tea Month by trying some new teas. Visit a tea shop and invest in at least one high quality tea that you've not tried before. You may be surprised at the difference in flavor between loose leaf tea and teabags.
Add a dash of lemon to your tea for a nice citrusy taste. I like to add a sprinkle of cinammon to my green tea.
To get the most health benefits from tea, drink at least 4 cups of tea a day.

Christmas Tea Flavors

2011-12-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

I love this time of the year. A nice hot cup of tea is just the thing to chase away the winter chill.
I was delighted to find some Holiday tea flavors in the store when I went shopping recently.
Celestial Seasonings offers Gingerbread Spice,and Sugar Plum Spice, both herbal teas. They also have Candy Cane Lane, a decaffeeinated Green tea. The herbal teas are naturall caffeine free. My favorite is the Gingerbread Spice. It has just the right combination of spice and sweetness to suit my taste.
Celestial Seasonings Tea bags do not come in individual wrappers as many teas do. That makes it hard to serve if you like to offer your guests a tea tray filled with many different types of teas that they may choose from. However, because their tea bag don't have strings, tags, staples or individual wrappers, they are able to save more than 3.5 million pounds of waste from entering landfills every year. So, when I'm serving their tea at a party, I make several different pots of tea, and let my guests choose their favorite flavor. That works just fine, and I'm helping the environment, too.

Survey

2011-11-28T09:45:00.000-08:00

A big thank you to all who participated in the recent survey that I conducted. The results were very encouraging and helpful.

The last few months have been spent doing research on marketing and trying to find more ways to reach women. Marketing can be a full time job! Social media, blogs, internet marketing – whew, it can be overwhelming.

I am very grateful to all of my customers, for their repeat orders and for helping to spread the word about Mystery Tea Parties.

All of the mystery plans can be seen at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Mystery Tea Character on U Tube

2011-11-15T11:49:00.001-08:00

Lady Tipton of "Who Killed the Darling Duke of Darjeeling?" can be seen on U-Tube! Copy and paste http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSB0k5-ed4s in your browser to see the Tea Company heiress explain how the Duke of Darjeeling was blackmailing her. For more information click on www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Thanksgiving Tea

2011-11-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

It's my turn to host a tea this month for my Victorian Tea Society. I've decided on a Thanksgiving Theme. What a novel idea, huh? I went searching on the internet this morning and found a free Thanksgiving Trivia game to play. I'm planning on decorating my table with a centerpiece of wheat tied with a pretty fall ribbon, and a ceramic turkey on either side. I also have some ceramic Pilgrim figures that I will use. It's going to be a potluck tea, with everyone bringing something (pre-arranged, so everyone doesn't bring beans). A potluck is very appropriate for Thanksgiving, as basically that's what the Pilgrims did. Everyone brought something to the table. At past Thanksgivings we've gone around the table and each person shared something they were thankful for. I think I'll do that also, but will have each person share something they are thankful for about the person sitting next to them, on their right.

"The Missing Christmas Tree" the newest mystery tea party plan is now available on the website www.mysteryteaparties.com. Just in time for your Christmas Tea. Read more about it in the press release at http://www.pressbox.co.uk/detailed/Entertainment/Entertain_with_New_Mystery_Christmas_Tea_Party_Plan_777223.html

Benefits of tea

2011-10-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

Now that fall is here, there's nothing like a hot cup of tea in the morning. I enjoy the teas with spices added to give it a hearty taste, as well as being good for your heart.
I've been on vacation, and visited a coffee and tea shop in Baraboo, Wi.
They had a wonderful selection of fine loose teas to choose from, and it was difficult to make a choice. I finally settled on a spicy Masala Chai and Wuyi Mountain Oolong. Oolong is good for boosting your metabolism and aids in weight loss. After all that eating on vacation, I need all the help I can get. I also replenished my supply of Rooibos Wildberry, one of my all time favorites. The Masala Chai will do nicely to perk me up as the mornings get colder.

The name of the shop? The Coffee Bean Connection.
I encourage you to visit a store that carries good loose leaf tea. You will love the many choices and the amazing difference in flavor between a tea bag and loose leaf tea. And you can usually get 2 to 3 good cups of tea from a single serving.
For more information on the health benefits of tea and tea information in general, subscribe to my newsletter at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

New Mystery Tea Party Plan

2011-09-11T13:34:00.001-07:00

It's hard to realize that it's the beginning of Fall, when it's still so hot here in the Ca. desert. But the stores are already featuring Halloween, Thanksgiving and even Christmas. So I don't think it's too early to start thinking about hosting a Christmas tea for friends, or perhaps for a church or club program. My new Christmas party plan will be available shortly. Watch for it at www.mysteryteaparties.com. draft

Tea Poem

2011-08-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

Three tea parties in one week is too much! But I enjoyed every one of them. Precious time with precious ladies. Now I'm working on losing the weight I gained from all those precious savories!

Preparing for a tea party often becomes a family affair, with others pitching in to help. This husband may have been recruited to help one to many times. Ed wrote the following poem for his wife Alice"

ALAS - TEA TIME!

Well, it's time for you to have your tea.
You've decorated so beautifully,
The food's prepared,
The china shown
The guests all arrive, saying
"Gimme a scone!"

Tea for weight-loss

2011-08-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

A cup of tea is so good for you, it's unbelievable! Many reports show that good tasting, inexpensive, widely available tea does help one lose weight. It works by helping to reduce cravings for sweets and suppress the appetite. It helps to lower cholesterol and helps the body burn fat by stimulating the thermogenesis.
There are 3 main ingredients in tea that do the work. The first is caffeine. Although caffeine has some harmful side effects, the amount in a cup of tea is far less than in a cup of coffee. Tea also has an ingredinet in it that negates the unhealthy caffeine effects, L-theanine. That same ingredient tells the brain that you're not hungry.
The weight-loss worker is EGCG, an antioxident that helps your body burn fat.
Drinking 4 cups of tea, or more, while following a good weight-loss plan
will definately help you lose weight faster and easier. Just be sure it's real tea, black, green, white or oolong, not an herbal tisane.

Update

2011-08-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

We have been gone for a month, cooling off in Northern Ca. We came back to the desert to early though, it's going to be over 100 all week.
I have three tea luncheons to attend this week. That, on top of vacation food, is making weight gain a real challenge.
Fortunately, I found a great book about tea and how it actually does work to help us lose weight. There are three important ingrediants in tea that do the trick. But I'm talking real tea, not tisanes.
What's the difference? Real teas are black, green, white and oolong.
The herbal blends, fruit blends, etc are called teas, but are actually not made from the tea plant. They are blends of herbs and fruits, spices, etc.
The benefits are not the same.
More about this in my next blog, which I promise will be in the next day or two.

Wedding Shower party plan

2011-06-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

This person had trouble posting to my website, so I thought I'd post her review of "Who Stole the Wedding Bells?" here. This is what she wrote:
Hi Maxine,

I was going to post my thoughts on your web site, but couldn’t figure out

how to get to it.

We had a blast last night for our bridal shower, performing the ‘Who stole the wedding bells’.

The girls really got into their parts and some said they enjoyed it even more then the one

we did last year, The bodacious babes, which was also a blast. I can’t get over how

well everyone took to their parts and the laughter went on all night. Without a doubt

the most fun bridal shower I’ve ever been to.

Thanks for your contribution to a successful night.

Always,

Sue

Mystery tea party review

2011-06-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

This is an email I received shortly after sending out Tea Tips Newsletter:

How delightful to get your email upon returning from the Ann Arbor City Club and our afternoon mystery tea event. The mystery was your "The Murder of the Darling Duke of Darjeeling"
which I had purchased two years ago in hopes of doing this, and now we have done it! What fun we had putting it on for members and their friends!. All our tea party guests were very
much into the tea and the mystery. The ladies who were my guests - Devon Shire's guests - at Warwick Cottage went all out with fun, appropriate to their character, over the top character
costumes. You should have seen Lacy Frills in her fantastic wedding gown and hat with veil, purchased at the Salvation Army, and Lady Tipton in her disguise with long black wig with bangs,
black hat and dark glasses and clothing, and Fancy Frou Frou with boa and much costume jewelry. My guests were truly into their character, as they walked around the tearoom, telling their
background and then how the Darling Duke had done them wrong, and why they had reason to do away with him. Even I who was hostess to the seven other "characters, had butterflies before,
but they flew away as the tea progressed and we enjoyed tea and hearing each guest's tale of woe. (We did not know the other guest's story until they acted it out and felt that was a good way to do it.)

Our dear friend who had proposed the tea several months ago, greeted the "observer" guests, and set the scene for the Murder Mystery Tea. Then the "actresses" arrived with grand entrances
after the first course had been served to the observer guests. After we had played our roles while enjoying the food and tea, she explained about the voting, and answered the question of
how the Duke was murdered. All guests voted at the end as to who they thought was guilty of the murder of the Darling Duke of Darjeeling. After the votes were counted our General
Manger dressed in a black t-shirt, with large foil covered star took the guilty one away in handcuffs. Our wait staff really enjoyed the event while doing a superb, unobtrusive job of serving
the delicious and attractive three course tea prepared by the kitchen staff . All guests stayed after the two hour Mystery Tea to talk as the "players" mingled. Of course, each guest had
party favors of teas, and chocolates. The enthusiastic guests definitely want to have another Mystery Tea again next year. Thus, we will come to you, Maxine, to select another of your scripts f
or our second Murder Mystery Tea Party.

Many thanks for the fun you brought to all of us.
Mary Ann Pierce

Mystery tea party fund raiser

2011-06-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

The Womans Club of Fallbrook, Ca hosted a "not-so-high " mystery tea party as a fund raiser for their scholarship fund. They performed "The Bodacious Babes of Buzzard Bend" to a sold out house.
These ladies did an outstanding performance. Each character was perfectly done. They actually memorized their entire scripts, and strolled around the dining room as they told their stories. Their costumes were fantastic. Two of the dance hall girls were in red satin can-can dresses. Calamity Joan looked like she just came in off a cattle drive. Carlotta, the flamenco dancer, looked the part and really shook her maracas.
The audience thoroughly enjoyed the performance, as well as the food. Scones, sandwiches and dessert were served, along with endless tea.
I was inivited to attend, as a mystery guest. The "director" was afraid that if the cast knew I was there, they'd be more nervous. So, I was not introduced until the performance was over, and the mystery of who shot the scoundrel, Calhoun Cahootz, was solved.
I told the ladies that their performance was the best I'd ever seen. I only write the lines, it's women like them (and you) that bring them to life and by doing so, bring laughter into the lives of others.
In a troubled world like ours, we all need more laughter.

May Tea

2011-04-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

I attended a May Day Tea Friday. Everyone brought a May Day basket filled with flowers, candy, etc. Then we drew numbers for the baskets, and each one of us received a basket to take home. Mine was filled with fresh flowers,tea, decorated sugar cubes, and note cards.
The hostess decorated the table by making a May Pole with ribbons as the centerpiece. A chocolate basket filled with MandM's was the favor at each place setting.
A Spring tea is a wonderful way to welcome Spring. Are you hosting one?

Spring Teas

2011-03-10T13:02:00.000-08:00

Spring is on its way and I've noticed an increase in tea party events.
Our local Christian Womens Club in hosting a tea for the month of March.
There is also a big tea party event "Tea on the Sea and Fashion Show" put on by a very active Senior Center. It's being held as a fund raiser.
The Victorian Tea Society that I belong to is having their annual Spring Tea in April. They are also having a Fashion Show put on by Coldwater Creek. It is being held at a beautiful Country Club. There will be vendors, and a wonderful tea luncheon.
Several churches in this area are also hosting Spring Teas. So many to attend, so little time!
Why not welcome Spring and beat the winter doldrums by hosting a tea yourself? Choose any of the fun mystery tea parties and receive a free
7 page party planning guide. Just click on www.mysteryteaparties.com.
Too busy? Host a pot-luck mystery theme tea party. Ask each guest to provide a particular item for the party, and save yourself alot of work.
Pot-lucks are always fun.

Tea Drinking

2011-02-24T12:21:00.000-08:00

Are you a dunker or a twirler?
Do you dunk your teabag up and down in a cup of hot water or do you twirl it around in a circle? I hope you don't just let it sit there because more anti-oxidents are released when the water moves through the tea leaves. In fact, researchers say you get up to five times more!

Also, to get the most health benefits from drinking tea, avoid putting milk in your tea. The protein in milk seems to negate some of the health benefits.

A healthier choice is a slice of lemon or bit of honey.

Ideas for Tea Parties

2011-02-17T16:41:00.000-08:00

There are so many fun and unique themes for a tea party! Of course, the Mystery tea party plans are great and offer many different themes, from Hawaiian to Western. Now there's even a a mystery tea party plan for children and one that is suitable for a wedding shower.
Several have roles that can be adapted to a part for a man. "The Bodacious Babes of Buzzard Bend" and "Murder at the Earl of Grey's Hound Manor" are two that come to mind.
One customer did "The Decadent Housewives of Hysteria Lane" for her office party. She added a few roles, one was the handsome plumber. His main role was to look handsome and flirt!
Another customer just wrote in to say she did one of the mystery party plans for a wine tasting.
Another clever gal invited guests to come to her mystery tea party and "tie one on." She gave each guest an apron as their favor. They, indeed, tied one on.

Spring Teas

2011-02-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

It may seem hard to believe, especially in some parts of the country, but Spring is just around the corner. Oh, alright, maybe down a few blocks and around the corner, but it surely will come.

I'm already seeing advertisments for Spring teas in May and June, and I want to encourage everyone to take advantage of these fun outings. So many tea rooms have had to close their doors due to the economy, so let's support these tea venues whenever we can.

Do your best to encourage and support any tearooms in your area, and let us know about your favorites. Truffles and Lace in Temecula, Ca has closed, and there is none in our local area.

A Victorian Tea and Fashion show will be held at the Fullerton Arboretum in Fullerton, CA June 5. For information call 657-278-4010. That's a long way from where I live, but I plan on attending.

New Mystery theme tea party

2011-01-26T10:49:00.000-08:00

January has been a busy month for hosting teas! I have attended two, and hosted two myself. I did a trial tea party for my newest mystery tea party, "Who Stole the Wedding Bells?" I discovered a few things I needed to change, and then it's off to the web-master to put it up on the website. I personally think it's a very funny plan.
I originally wrote it to be given at wedding showers, but after hosting it myself, I saw that any group could do it, just like the other mystery tea party plans.
So watch for it on the website, www.mysteryteaparties.com or give me a call at 951-301-7218.

Tea Party Theme a Success

2011-01-12T17:11:00.000-08:00

I hosted a "Reach for the Stars" tea party yesterday. I invited 7 ladies of mature years. I printed out the affirmations, and carried a little more. I added a scripture to go with each one, and then because I didn't want the whole party to get too serious, I added a humorous one liner.

The invitations I sent out encouraged the ladies to be prepared to share a goal with everyone, and what they planned on doing to achieve it. I was surprised how open everyone was in thier sharing. The ladies discovered they had alot in common; problems they were dealing with, hopes for the future, etc. There were deep thoughts but laughter, too.

I made the finger sandwiches ahead of time, as I like to do. As we ate lunch, I bit into my egg salad sandwich, and thought it was rather bland. I removed the top layer of bread, and voila! No egg salad! Apparently I buttered the bread, to keep the sandwich from getting soggy, and then absent minded me, neglected to spread the egg salad before storing them in the refrigerator, tightly sealed in a container.

The funny thing is, they all ate the sandwich, and never said a word, until I brought it up. Then they remarked that they, too, thought it was rather bland. One gal was sure hers had egg salad in it. The power of suggestion!

All in all, the party was a great success. Everyone went away with thier spirits lifted and a smile on thier face. Maybe I'll do it again in the summer to see how they are doing on reaching thier goals. I could make egg salad sanwiches....

Reach for the Stars Tea Party Theme

2010-12-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

“REACH FOR THE STARS” THEME TEA PARTY

A New Year lies before us, and with it the opportunity for a fresh start. Many resolutions have been made, many goals set, and there’s a new determination in our hearts to achieve our dreams.

What a great opportunity for a “Reach for the Stars” theme tea party! Perfect for a January tea party, this theme could be used any time throughout the year.

Decorate your table with glitzy star decorations. They might even be available at half price, in after Christmas sales. Christmas ornaments with silver or gold stars painted on them nestled in a pretty bowl or basket will make an elegant centerpiece.

Large cardboard stars, covered with colorful foil wrapping paper, could be used as placemats.

Place cards, with guest names, could be made to match and placed at each table setting.

The invitations should encourage guests to come ready to share their dreams for the New Year.

Prepare an encouraging affirmation for each guest, written on pretty paper and rolled into a scroll. Seal it with a gold or silver star and place one by each place setting. As your tea party progresses, ask guests to open and read their scroll. Then have them share their dream for the New Year and at least one thing they will do to achieve it. For instance, if their dream is to visit a foreign country, they may take the first step and obtain a passport.
Sample affirmations for the scrolls are:

Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve. Napoleon Hill.

Decide upon your major definite purpose in life and then organize all your activities around it. Brian Tracy

The indispensable first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: decide what you want. Ben Stein

If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise. Robert Fritz

The number one problem that keeps people from winning in the United States today is lack of belief in themselves. Arthur L. Williams

You weren’t an accident. You weren’t mass produced. You aren’t an assembly-line product. You were deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on the Earth by the Master Craftsman. Max Lucado

You have to believe in yourself when no one else does. That’s what makes you a winner. Venus Williams

If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes. Andrew Carnegie

At the conclusion of the tea party, you could give each guest a scroll that you have prepared containing all the affirmations that have been read.

Menu:

To keep with the theme, you might serve Celestial Seasons tea, choosing a blend of spices, representing the blend of opportunities in the new year.

Dreamy Scones

3 cups flour
3 tspns baking powder
½ tspn salt
1 cup cold butter
1 egg
1 cup vanilla yogurt
½ tspn vanilla
2 tspns milk
Sugar

Preheat oven to 425 degrees
Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in egg, yogurt and vanilla just until combined. Turn out onto a floured surface, knead 6-8 times. Do not over handle.

Roll into a 9 inch circle, cut into 8 wedges. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Brush tops with milk and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Black Eyed Peas Salad

Black eyed peas are traditionally eaten at the beginning of the year as they are supposed to bring good luck and prosperity. They are also a reminder of our proud but humble beginnings.
• 2 cans Black eyed peas, drained
• 1 Bell Pepper
• 1 Chopped Cucumber
• 1 Can Olives, chopped
• Equal mixture of Olive Oil and Herb vinegar (garlic or basil)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
• Thyme, rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning
• Garlic
• Mix it all up and let chill for an hour before serving.
•
Lucky New Year's Sandwiches with Grapes
On Nochevieja in Spain, New Year's Eve revelers eat 12 grapes at midnight — one for every chime of the clock — to bring good luck in the 12 months to come. To add good luck to your tea party, serve these beautiful open-faced sandwiches, featuring chicken and 12 grapes.
4 slices of Honey Wheat bread
2 cups coarsely chopped cooked white chicken meat
1/2 cup thinly sliced celery
1/2 cup blanched and sliced almonds, plus 4 tablespoons for sprinkling
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
48 red grapes, each cut in half
Mix the chicken, celery, almonds, mayonnaise, lemon juice and tarragon together. Spread generously onto the slices of bread. Top each slice with 24 grape halves. Then cut each slice in half, so there are 12 grape halves on each one. Sprinkle with more almonds if desired. Serve open faced.

CARROT PARTY SANDWICHES

These carrot sandwiches remind us to eat our vegetables. We need to enjoy good health as we reach for our dreams.
2 cups grated carrots
8 oz. cream cheese
½ cup chopped nuts
1 tsp. lemon juice
¼ tsp salt
2 tsp salad dressing
Mix together and spread on assorted crackers or breads. Cut in party shapes.

FANCY EGG SALAD SANDWICHES

Eggs symbolize new life, new beginnings. A perfect choice for a New Year.

• 8 hard-cooked eggs, diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup dried onion flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dill weed
• 8 slices white bread
In a bowl, gently mix the eggs, mayonnaise, onion flakes, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, pepper, and dill. Cover, and refrigerate 8 hours, or overnight. To serve, spread equal amounts on 4 slices bread; top with remaining bread slices to make sandwiches.

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

This macaroni and cheese dish is served to represent comfort and love in our lives.
2 1/4 cups hot water
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1 (14 ounce) package KRAFT Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
1/2 cup Sour Cream
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Mix water and mustard in 1-1/2-quart casserole. Whisk in Cheese Sauce from Pouch. Stir in dry Macaroni; cover with tight-fitting lid.
2. Bake 30 minutes. Uncover; stir in sour cream. Bake, uncovered, an additional 10 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Confetti Cake

Confetti Cake is the perfect way to celebrate our dreams as we reach for the Stars.

Confetti Cake (Serve with real confetti, if you don’t mind the clean up)

1 1-pound box angel food cake mix
1/4 cup colored candy sprinkles

1. Follow the directions on the cake mix box, but just before pouring the batter into the tube pan, add the sprinkles.
2. Mix them quickly and gently with as few strokes as possible and pour the batter into the pan immediately. If you mix and pour too slowly, the colors may bleed and color the surrounding batter.
3. Frost cake with whipped topping or your favorite frosting. Add confetti (colored sprinkles) and a sparkly star decoration. (Tip Apply the sprinkles to the sides of the cake by lightly tossing them against the frosting. Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Star shaped cookies and candies may also be served.

Christmas High Tea

2010-12-22T14:49:00.000-08:00

I was invited to a late afternoon Christmas High Tea that was a delightful time with friends from two tea groups. The hostess had her two teen age nieces help her serve. She served hot tomato bisque soup, then scones, then tea sandwiches followed by a polenta lasagna hot dish. There was hardly room left in tummies for desert, which was a beautiful red velvet cake served with ice cream.
We exchanged gifts, playing the take away game, which led to lots of laughter.
Two of the ladies are on a gluten free diet. I was pleased to discover gluten free bread, and many gluten free mixes. There's even a gluten free scone mix. I've made this, as well as a gluten free chocolate chip cookie mix, and brownie mix, and they are all very good. So, even if you can not have wheat, it's still possible to attend or host a tea and serve sandwiches, scones and desserts all gluten free.
I'm looking forward to hosting two teas next January. Watch this blog for a Jan. tea theme I will post right after Christmas.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!
Maxine at www.mysteryteaparties.com

Christmas Teas

2010-11-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

The December calendar is filling up fast! I am invited to several Christmas teas. A Christmas tea is a wonderful way to share the season with good friends. A time to get away from the hustle and bustle and relax with friends. A fun way to do that is to host the mystery Christmas tea, "Who Stole the Joy From Christmas?" This plan is also a great way to share your faith, as the last script explains the real "Meaning of the Season." It's not too late, you can download the party plan instantly for only $24.95 at www.mysteryteaparties.com.
I will be hosting two teas in January. One will be a trial party for my new mystery tea party plan for a wedding shower, and the other will be a plan (not a mystery) that I will post on this blog later this month.

Mystery Birthday Party for Kids

2010-11-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

"The Case of the Missing Art Work" is an affordable, fun, different way to celebrate birthdays for kids 8-18. One parent told me she was so happy to learn about the mystery tea party plans because it provided their family with an affordable way to celebrate their "tweens" birthday. As many families today, they were strapped for cash and couldn't afford the price of many of today's birthday parties. The mystery tea party plan was everything they were looking for, at a very affordable price.
"The Sinister Sleepover" is great for birthday/slumber parties, too. See all the plans at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Organization!

2010-10-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

I finished a major accomplishment this morning. My collection of recipes has been a mish mash of cards, pages, magazine clippings, etc. all jammed into a small notebook. After viewing a friend's neatly organized note book, I decided it was time to do something about mine. I bought a box of plastic sheet protectors, and a spiral notebook, for the paper. Then I set about cutting and pasting recipes on the notebook paper, then inserting them into the plastic protectors. It took a few evenings to do of all that, then this morning I put them all into a binder. Interesting that I have more scone recipes than anything else!
My favorite scone recipe was given to me by an English friend. The main ingredient is Bisquick!
What's your favorite scone recipe? Why not share it in the comment section!

Tea Party Tips

2010-09-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it again. True, it wasn't at a tea party, but it did remind me to remind you...I'm getting ahead of myself!
We had friends over for a cook-out the other night. The weather is finally cool enough to enjoy being outdoors again. Anyway, everyone is being helpful, carrying all the plates and food outside. There was plenty of food, and we all enjoyed a nice dinner. Then we played cards, so it wasn't till after everyone had left that I discovered the special salad I had made for the dinner - untouched, in the refrigerator. I forgot to serve it! It was an unusual dish, cucumers and red grapes were the main ingredients, and I was anxious for my gourmet cook/friend to try it. Sigh.
When will I learn to make a list of the food I'm going to serve and check off the items as they are taken to the table.
I usually do that when I'm hosting a tea party, and that's my reminder to you. Make a list!

Childrens Mystery Tea Party

2010-09-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

I have had many requests for a mystery tea party plan deisgned for children, and I can now say it is finished! "The Case of the Missing Art Work" is designed for ages 8 to teens. I just turned it over to my webmaster this morning, so it should be up on the website soon.

This will provide a theme party for parents wishing to honor their child's birthday in a unique and fun way. Kids love mysteries and the "test" party that was done was a big hit.

Look for it soon, along with all the other mystery tea party plans at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Tea Parties

2010-07-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

I have attended 3 tea parties in one week! Dates had to be changed to accomodate every one's busy schedules, and so it just so happened that they all fell in one week.
One tea was at Barbara's Victorian Tea House in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. The home is on the historical society's list, and was a wonderful old fashioned home. The food and tea service was excellent, and my Victorian Tea Society group had a lovely time. I highly recommend it, if you are in the area.
A few days later, another tea group that I belong to held thier monthly tea in a member's home.
Her theme was tea and roses. A lovely centerpiece of fresh roses adorned the table. We enjoyed tea, salad and tea sandwiches and too many desserts.
Then, on the week-end, I attended a monthly tea that a friend does every month for 16 to 24 friends. This remarkable friend is in a wheelchair, but that doesn't stop her from hosting her teas. Her theme was a red, white and blue picnic. She sets up tables in her kitchen, dining room, den and enclosed garden room to accomodate her guests.
I hope you take advantage of the summer months to host a tea party yourself. There are so many delightful teas to serve iced, and they are so refreshing.

Tea Bags vs Loose tea

2010-05-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

Tea bags are so convenient, why would anyone want to switch to loose tea? The answer is simple: Quality!
Tea bags first came into popularity in 1904. Before that, tea was sent in tins. A merchant in New York, trying to cut costs, began sending sample teas to his customers in small silk sacks. The client, not knowing this was new packaging, put the tea in hot water-bag and all. And a new way of preparing tea was born. Tea bags became popular. Then, in order for the tea to fully infuse, smaller tea leaves were used. Soon, merchants began using cheaper grades of tea, known as "fannings" or "dust". The thought was that as long as they were hidden inside the tea bag anyway, no one would know. As time went by, companies began to wrap the "leaves" in paper filters, a cheaper alternative to the silk bag. This alternative doesn't allow the water to flow through to the cup as easily, eliminating even more quality.
Unfortuantely, the tea found in most grocery stores is this lower grade of tea.
That is why I have begun to work with Heavenly Special Teas. They offer high quality premium full-leaf tea blends from around the world. Visit thier web site at www.heavenlyspecialteas.com to see a great variety of herbal/fruit, and flavored teas. Be sure to tell them Maxine sent you.

Taking the Mystery out of brewing Tea

2010-05-10T20:39:00.000-07:00

I've been learning alot about tea lately, thanks to Heavenly Special Teas.Find them at www.Heavenlyspecialteas.com. The temperature of the water and the amount of time the tea steeps is very important. Black tea should steep in boiling hot water for 3 to 5 minutes. Green tea should steep for 3 minutes in 180 degree water. This temperature is reached just when the tea kettle starts to sizzle, just before it reaches boiling. Herbal tea, which is naturally decaffeinated, likes the boiling hot water and should steep for 5 to 7 minutes. Water that is left to boil too long gets depleted of the oxygen in the water and the result is a flat, tasteless cuppa.
For the best cup of tea, use loose tea leaves rather than a tea bag. I'll tell you why in another blog post. Ta ta for now.

New Mystery Tea Party Plan, The Sinister Sleepover

2010-05-03T20:28:00.000-07:00

Whoever heard of attending a tea party in your pajamas? Well, that's how the guests arrive when they attend the new pajama party mystery tea party!
It seems that the hostess has awakened them all with the dreadful news that a robbery and murder has taken place while they were all snoozing. Or were they? Several of them were seen roaming the halls in the middle of the night!
This new mystery party plan is already becoming popular. One lady ordered it and wrote that she is going to do it as an actual slumber party. Another said she is ordering it for her church's ladies night out.
I always do a trial run of any new party plan, and when I hosted "The Sinister Sleepover" my guests really had fun! They arrived in pajamas and bathrobes,one had slippers with floppy dog ears, another brought her teddy bear for company.
One lady had curlers in her hair, another wore a night cap. The party was a great success. You can purchase yours by clicking on www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Tea in Texas

2010-03-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hey, all you Texans! There is a great tea magazine called Tea in Texas. It comes out every two months and filled with great tea information, recipes, and news of many, many tearooms in Texas. Apparently, tearooms are very popular in Texas.
Look them up on the internet for more information and to be able to subscribe. It's really a great magazine.

Mystery of Tea

2010-03-17T08:42:00.000-07:00

My education in tea continues to grow. I am working with Heavenly Special Teas, a home party company. I do not plan on doing home parties myself, but will offer these wonderful high quality teas through my mystery tea party business. I am also looking for consultants anywhere in the nation.
There are so many benefits to drinking tea. It's one beverage that contains no calories, no carbohydrates, no salt and no fat.
Green tea contains more antioxidant working for you than Vitamins C and E. Some studies suggest it may prevent rheumatoid arthritis and/or lessen pain from those already afflicted.
Black tea even contains fluoride which fights bacteria that causes gum disease and decay. Who knew?
Oolong tea has so many benefits I don't know where to begin! It aids in digestion, works as a diuretic and has cleansing actions in the system. It fights dark spots on the skin and wrinkles. It also has been shown to help lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease. This tea also helps prevent tooth decay. Many claim it also aids in weight reduction.
If you'd like to learn more about these amazing teas visit www.heavenlyspecialteas.com. Please be sure to tell them Maxine sent you, or just give me a call at 951-301-7218. I'm on Pacific time, so if you're on the East Coast, please don't call before 9:00 a.m. your time!

Mystery of tea

2010-03-09T21:04:00.000-08:00

Iam learning so much about tea! I starting reading some tea forums on various websites. I soon discovered that many true tea lovers are not content with the teabags purchased at the local grocery store. They were ordering special teas and blends from different tea sources. They wrote with great passion about senchas and oolongs. They shared how long to steep various teas and worried about the temperature of the water. How long should the water boil? Should green tea steep longer than black?
Should you steep tea in a teapot with the cozy on or off? This last question led to a lengthy discussion, and several people performing tests.
The answers? Usually, water should just reach a boil. Green tea steeps for 3 minutes, black 5. Never cover a teapot while steeping tea. It "cooks" the tea and spoils the taste.

Box Luncheon tea party

2010-02-12T14:46:00.000-08:00

This afternoon my Red Hat group enjoyed a Box Lunch. We each packed a lunch suitable for a tea party in a decorated box or basket. Each box had a number put on it, and then we all drew numbers. We then received the box that had our number on it. The boxes and baskets were all different, and very creative. Some were done in store bought hat boxes, some in big gift baskets, and one in a picnic basket with a Valentine Teddy Bear attached to it. (This was held on Feb. 12th)
My decorated box contained a wrap sandwich, candy, carrot cake, and a side dish of fruit and berries. The hostess provided drinks and a Watergate salad.
A fun and easy way to entertain!

Tea Party

2010-02-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I attended a tea party hosted by a lady in a wheelchair. My friend has MS, but she doesn't let that stop her from hosting a monthly tea party for about 20 women! She has a small house, and sets up tables in her dining room, den, kitchen and sun room. She does most of the cooking herself, occasionally asking someone to bring something to add to the menu. She appoints a hostess for each table, and they do the actual serving.
We all pitch in for the clean up, and don't leave until all the dishes are done and everything is put away.
She is an inspiration to me. I, too, have a small house, and it's easy to use that as an excuse not to entertain. When I think of all the work involved in putting on a tea party, I can easily talk myself out of hosting one. Then I think of my friend, and she inspires me to get out my cookbooks, and put up an extra table.
I hope this will inspire you, too, to bless your friends or family by hosting a tea party.
You can find recipes and ideas at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Tea Sites you will enjoy

2010-02-02T11:54:00.001-08:00

I've been doing alot of research lately for a new project, and have come upon some websites I'm sure you'd like to know about, too.
I found a source for free tea party invitations at www.hooverwebdesign.com. It takes abit of looking around in thier website, but they are there and worth searching for.
Looking for cute favors for your next tea party? Try www.beau-coup.com. They have many to choose from, some priced as low as .80.
Do you like to knit? You'll find kit's for knitting a tea cozy and a washcloth with a teapot design at www.teanroses.com.
Free tea party games and lots of tea party ideas are at www.teahousetimes.com.

Tea, WII and Me!

2010-02-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

I've found another excuse to have a tea party! Today three friends are joing me for an informal time of tea and scones, then we are going to play WII bowling. I'm serving two kinds of scones, lemon curd, jam and devonshire cream. Since it's just the four of us, I'm going to use a loose tea, a blend of seven green teas from Let's Do Tea.

Woman's Club Mystery Party

2010-01-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

I was so pleased to hear from the Country Woman's Club of Campbell, Ca. They are celebrating their 105th Birthday with a dinner and presentation of "Gone With the Breeze." It will be held on Feb. 22 at a Country Club.
This group has done several of my mystery tea party plans, and have been kind enough to invite me. Alas, it has not worked out for me to attend, but maybe one of these days! I love being invited to events, and when they are not too far away, I try my best to be there.

Mystery tea party for a wedding!

2010-01-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

I'm always surprised and delighted to learn of the many different ways the mystery tea party plans are being used. They've been done in homes, tea rooms, restaurants, an herb farm, poolside, country club, churches, banquet halls. They've been used as entertainment for all types of womens events; ladies golf luncheon, PEO's, women's clubs, library clubs, doll clubs, girls night out, office parties, gosh, the list goes on and on. They've been used as fund-raisers for all sorts of events,too.
But today was a first. A wedding party wants to entertain thier guests at the reception with a mystery tea party! What fun!
Next time your club is looking for entertainment, take a look at the many mystery party plans at www.mysteryteaparties.com. (The plans work well without a tea party.)

Mystery of the New Year

2009-12-31T11:04:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is Dec. 31st, the last day of 2009. It's been a hard year for many, an interesting year to say the least. Don't you wonder what 2010 will bring? What the next ten years will bring? What would you like to be doing ten years from now?
What will you do now to bring that about?
Don't want this to turn into a sermon, so I'll just get back to today. Should I work on end of the year stuff or should I start working on the next mystery tea party plan? I've also got the idea for a one act play starting to take form, too. It's tempting to just do the fun stuff, but then the end of year stuff will keep nagging at me. Maybe I should get that done and then have clear sailing for writing the next fun mystery. I think you'll love it!
I hope your New Year resolutions include more fun tea parties. I am hosting two in January. One for my Red Hat group, and one for my Victorian Tea group. Going to do "Who Killed the Roving Romeo?" for my Red Hat group, and a regular tea for the Victorian group.
Please leave a comment on your thoughts for the New Year or anything else. Just click on comments after any post.

Mystery Tea Parties in Tea Rooms

2009-12-27T15:25:00.000-08:00

The Camelia Rose Tea Room in Florida just purchased my newest mystery tea party plan, "Gone With the Breeze." They have now purchased every one that I have written, and are anxious for me to get going on another.

They feature them as an added venue in thier tea room, and they have been very popular with thier customers.

I have the plot for another new mystery running around in my head, so I can promise another one or two mystery tea party plans coming out in 2010.

Speaking of the New Year, I anticipate a new look in my newsletter, Tea Tips. It is always exciting to start a New Year, and wonder what it holds in store. If you haven't subscribed yet, you can do so by clicking on www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Please leave a comment and tell us about your tea parties, decorating ideas, share a craft or recipe, or ask a question. Just click on the word "Comment" after any post. It's fun and easy and I'd love to hear from you.

What's your biggest concern about hosting a tea party? Leave a comment and tell us what it is.

2009-12-23T13:54:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! The big day is almost here. The sun is shining through the window at my desk, there's a gentle wind blowing, and the mountains surrounding us are covered with snow. That's Christmas in Southern California. But it isn't the weather that makes it a joyful season, it's what's in the heart. My heart is filled with gratitude for all the blessings God gives, and especially for the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation that He brings.
The mystery tea party business has been a blessing, and I love hearing from the ladies. They often send me emails and even pictures of thier parties. If you wish to leave a comment, (please do!) just click on the "comment" under any post, and it will open a box where you can tell the whole world about your party.
The newsletter will be out in January and will have a new look to it. If you haven't subscribed to the free online "Tea Tips" you can do so at
www.mysteryteaparties.com .

Mystery Tea Party Special Offer

2009-11-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

There is a great special offer in the Jan.Feb. issue of Tea Time magazine that came out Nov. 25. Purchase two mystery tea party plan downloads and you will get one free! The offer expires Jan. 15, so don't put it off, order now at www.mysteryteaparties.com. After you order the two download versions of any mystery party plan, just send me an email telling me the name of the third party plan that you want to receive for free, and I will send you the link to download it.
Please leave a comment and tell everyone about your latest tea party, or share a recipe or ???

2009-11-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

The Mystery today is where does the time go? This is the time of year when the days are shorter, the hours go faster and there's more and more to do! I hope you still take time to enjoy tea parties, and do take a look at the many changes on the website www.mysteryteaparties.com.
I came across this tried and true recipe for Spice Tea. The aromas of the spices are a treat to the senses, and it's so easy to make.
SPICE TEA RECIPE
2 27 Oz. jars of Orange Drink (like Tang)
12 oz. Lemonade dry mix (like Countrytime)
1 Cup Instant Tea
2 cups sugar (or sugar subtitute - amount will differ with brand)
1 tspn cloves
2 tspns cinnamon
Mix all ingrdients together. Add 2 tspns of tea mix to 1 cup hot water.
If you are using a mug, use 3 tspns of tea mix.
Be sure to store in an airtight container.
Craft idea: Fill a glass jar, like a canning jar, with the tea mix and cover with lid. Cut a square of fabric and place over the top of the jar. Wrap a piece of ribbon or twine and tie with a bow. Print the instructions on a gift tage and voila! You have a homemade gift!

New Mystery theme tea party plan

2009-11-20T08:33:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce that "Gone With the Breeze", the 12th mystery tea party plan will be available on the website www.mysteryteaparties.com after Thankgsgiving. This was written in response to many of you who wanted a mystery theme party plan that would allow you to dress up in vintage costumes.

So, put on your best Southern drawl, hoop skirt and pantaloons, and have fun with Charlotte O'Mara as she tries to find out who stole her mortgage
money. You can order now by calling 951-301-7218 or visit the website after Nov. 25 to order online at www.mysteryteaparties.com.

Price increase

2009-11-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to tell you that it has become necessary for me to increase prices. Paper, ink, internet services, advertising... everything has gone up, and I need to go up, too. The prices will change on the website by Nov. 25. You can still order now at the old price at http://www.mysteryteaparties.com/ It will be the first increase in almost five years.

Watch for a new and improved newsletter in January. If all goes well, it will have a new appearance. Haven't subscribed yet? It's a free online quarterly newsletter filled with decorating ideas, tea information, recipes, humor and anything else I think you'll find interesting. Just click on this link and sign up: http://www.mysteryteaparties.com/.

Mayehm on Maui Mystery Tea Party Plan

2009-11-05T14:54:00.000-08:00

Here's an email I just received:

Hi Maxine
We had our Luau Murder Mystery Oct 8th and it was a big success. I got to be the murderess, no one guessed said it was to obvious. Of course the cast didn't know either.We plan to do another one next year so you will be hearing from me again.Thanks again for the entertaining play we had a lot of fun doing it.
Hugs
(I omitted her name)

Tea Tips Newsletter

2009-10-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

Sign up for our free online newsletter! Tea Tips is a quarterly newsletter filled with tea information, entertaining and decorating tips, recipes, humor and inspiration. There's usually a special offer for newsletter readers only that helps them save money on the mystery tea party plans. You can subscribe by going to www.mysteryteaparties.com and signing up for the newsletter.

Victorian website

2009-10-31T13:37:00.000-07:00

For all of you that love all things Victorian, there's a new website to check out. It's www.Mostly-Victorian.com. Lots of historical information, and fun things to see and do.

New Mystery Theme Tea Party Plan

2009-10-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

The test party for my newest mystery "Gone With the Breeze" was a great success. The gals really got into the spirit of the Civil War Era with their costumes. One gal wore a vintage type dress with a full skirt and actually made a wire hoop for it, so she had a hoop skirt and pantaloons! Another had a beautiful vintage type dress with a bustle and cape. One of my best friends wore a wig that made her look so different I almost didn't recognize her. They all enjoyed playing the parts of Southern Belles.
I have to check out a few things yet, then the plan will go to my webmaster to be put on the internet.

2009-10-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

We conversed via email about the Christmas Tea. I hope I am posting in the right place!
I own a tea party business but most of my tea parties are for little girls. I host tea parties for ladies as well, just not as much.
I do have your tea party mysteries listed on my site, but most of the ladies that are interested in your parties tend to host their own, and that's okay! I just want my customers to know that I am willing to host a tea party and provide the mystery if they choose to go that route.
My church had a Blue Hydrangea Tea Party last spring and we used your mystery 'Who's Missing From the Class Reunion', for the entertainment portion. This was a fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer Research. We raised money for the Middle Tennessee National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. The mystery worked out very well. We split it into 3 acts and each act was performed during each course; Scones, Savories and Sweets. We served Cranberry-Blueberry Hibiscus, Vanilla Rooibus and Earl Gray. Everything was so yummy!Here is a link to a photoshow that we put together:
http://www.photoshow.com/watch/fK7fb7CW
Here is a link to the Blue Hydrangea Tea Party Site if you anoyone would like more information about hosting their own.
http://bhtp.org
I have also bought "The Red Feather Ladies Aboard S.S.Titantica", "Who Killed the Roving Romeo of the Red Father Ladies", "Who Killed the Duke of Darjeeling" I am planning to host one of these at a future Bunco Party.I love reading through all of the mystery parties, they are a lot of fun.
Sincerely,Vicki Arnold

2009-09-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

It's a great day for a tea party! Today I am attending one, not hosting one. The hostess has invited guests to a Hawaiian theme tea party lunch.
We are to wear tropical attire, it sounds like a fun party.
I happen to know that this hostess struggles with tea sandwiches. In the past she has made them the day of the party, just before serving them. This meant a long time in the kitchen while her guests waited.
I have encouraged her to make them the day before, wrap them in plastic wrap or put in covered containers, as most hostesses do. I've been told you can even freeze most tea sandwiches, but I haven't tried that myself.
What do you think? Any hints about making tea sandwiches? Please leave a comment!

Mystery Tea Parties

2009-09-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

The magazine "Country Victorian" has done a special article on the mystery tea parties. "Host a Whodunnit" is the name of the feature, and they headline "Who Killed the Darling Duke of Darjeeling" and "Who Killed the Roving Romeo of the Red Feather Ladies."
Hosting a mystery tea party for friends or family is a great way to entertain. The party plans also lend themselves to club programs and fund raisers. They have proven very popular with Red Hat groups as well as church groups.