On the correct time to drink tea.
I've not long finished reading a rather enjoyable book: 'How to be Idle' by Tom Hodgkinson.
Here's a bit that I've stolen from it...
According to the Chinese, there are various ideal conditions for the enjoyment of tea:
When one's heart and hands are idle.
Tired after reading poetry.
When one's thoughts are disturbed.
Listening to songs and ditties.
When a song is completed.
Shut up at one's home on a holiday.
Playing the ch'in and looking over paintings.
Engaged in conversation deep at night.
Before a bright window and a clean desk.
With charming friends and slender concubines.
Returning from a visit with friends.
When the day is clear and the breeze is mild.
On a day of light showers.
In a painted boat near a small wooden bridge.
In a forest with tall bamboos.
In a pavilion overlooking lotus flowers on a summer day.
Having lit incense in a small studio.
After a feast is over and the guests are gone.
When the children are at school.
In a quiet, secluded temple.
Near famous springs and quaint rocks.
So, next time you feel like a nice cup of rosie - be mindful of this advice. It will taste all the better if you know you chosen just the right moment (my favourite is the boat one).