I did it! I have achieved getting to my Quiet Era and have really embraced it. For my longtime Readers, you can sense the build up to this in my posts if you really paid attention (not that any of you weren’t!). But even going back and reading them myself, I FEEL the inevitable while I was writing about my breaks and changes. Also, I know myself well and knew my work-a-holic work ethic wasn’t sustainable NOR what I wanted for myself anyway.

I remember someone telling me all the plans + goals they have yet to accomplish in their life, then ending their story with a little backhanded insult…something like: “But look at you…”, as if I was settling or giving up cuz I closed my boutique and retired from Touring + Writing. Don’t worry, I hit back with a little “It’s okay, you’ll get here one day.” (rolling my eyes) But honestly, listening to all that she was tryina do still (approaching her 40’s) (no shade to her or anyone still trying to do that!), just sounded so EXHAUSTING to me. And I for sure didn’t feel like I was settling or giving up on anything, by any means. (but you know, I don’t need to waste my breath explaining any of that to anyone)

So yes, I have really been (1) living the mundane day-to-day of being a wife and mom, (2) being in QUIET away from my phone and other distractions, and (3) receiving and accepting JOY from simple things like reading and collecting. LIKE I SAID I WOULD. (100 emoji) And it has been wonderful! Sure, it took some time to get used to and really believe that I was here. I’m also sure there are some people out there upset with my being quiet or absence…but I don’t use any of my precious energy thinking about anyone else (dare we say: Selfish Era??). This has done WONDERS for my nervous system and mindset. I look for and accept happiness every day and am thrilled with what’s boring + benign. (content face emoji)

I wish I could say with all the quiet around here, that our calendar is more scarce/sparse (what word belongs there?). Far from it! We have a beautiful created family that we share many meals and outings with. And my favorite part is that our time is not spent with just one core group over + over…but that we have evenly spaced out time with all our family members. It has given our children time to bond and create memories with many loved ones. Sure, the ongoing joke is that if you wanna make dinner plans with us, expect it to be at least 3 months out hehe. But we are RICH with people around us who love us wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Blessed beyond measure.

My health. My health is…my health. With all the adventures, my home life is as debilitating as ever. When I’m at home, I am RESTING. I don’t have many usable hours in a day (chronic illness warriors know that term ‘usable hours’ well). I might be able to do a light chore, like wash just 4 dishes (my daughter doesn’t allow me any more than that!) or fold clothes. I am the Official Laundry Folder in these parts and me + my ocd are very fine with that. But that’s about it, sadly. I had daydreams of retiring and scrubbing everything!! Nope, no can do. And it’s really heartbreaking for me. After some homeschooling for my daughter and feeding myself (which sometimes my kids help with preparing my meals), the rest of my time at home is for laying down, napping, catching or focusing on my breath. If I didn’t write this down here, no one would know the wiser however. I never let on how bad it really is for me. I’m a good Hider when it comes to my pain.

Anything else to mention…? (I coyly say, when I know what I really wanna talk about) Yes YES, I am still collecting Disney pins! (covering mouth emoji) I used to feel really dorky doing so, being “New Disney” and all at my big age haha. But now I am just unapologetically and unseriously doing this all out in the open!! (laughing crying emojis) I know it can be an expensive hobby, so what I take the most pride in is how I do this smartly. I keep my collection limited to just tea-related pins, with Mad Hatter being a favorite character. And then I don’t purchase anything over a certain amount. The real excitement is getting accepted for a really cheap offer that I didn’t think they would take! That part is so much fun, cuz I feel so smart and frugal hahah. I’m not really doing trades (I think that would be a whole post in itself). I’ve attended a few trading events…and with every one, I’m more convinced that trading isn’t for me. I don’t like the snottiness about some in the community, or how serious some people take it. I think it takes the fun out of it, imo. Anyway, I’ll be sure to include a picture of what I have so far now!

Tea and the website. I am ecstatic that people still read this blog everyday. (sweat bead emoji) I can’t believe how well our numbers do…and I’m not even promoting this on social media!!?! We had a new country viewing…Hello Morocco!! And somebody or “people” in China is/are loving us, cuz the numbers from there are up the wazoo! Hey China, how yall doin how yall doin? THANK YOU to everyone who is still rolling with us after my Retirement. This really means so much, really.

I have a few new spots I’m gonna try, so stick with us! We’ll be back soon! Love yall, mean it.

[my daughter took this funny picture of us, the Huz trying to hold me as I drag my cane behind him!]

[one of my favorite lunches…altho I’m not supposed to have raw veg]

[a picture I took, never meant to be shared…just wanting to save the moment of reading in bed with my dog close by (my sheets were being washed, so this was my daughter’s old set)]

[latest photo of my collection…it has grown!]

I was gonna journal about this… But, I thought it would be fun to include yall! (ooh, Oly about to get personal!) And it’s tea-related, so why not!?

I don’t remember if + how much I’ve written about this on here (and I don’t feel like going back and looking). And I really don’t like giving her anymore attention than she’s already taken that wasn’t deservedly hers…but I have to talk about her for a moment. When I was a little girl, my bio mom had many collections. Pencils, magnets, matchbooks, antique teacups + saucers… But she never included my bio sister or me. When I went through Trauma Recovery, I randomly stumbled on Rae Dunn. I became interested in what her items were about, and during the Pandemic (when places were starting to open up) I asked my husband to take me to a Marshalls. I bought my first Rae Dunn mug! A cream colored cup that looked freshly sculpted, with the word SURVIVOR on it in bold black uppercase letters. I found myself drawn to these things and didn’t understand why. I soon realized this was going to be part of my Inner Child Work. Starting a collection of my own…something I was never allowed to be a part of when I was younger. Now let me stop for a moment and express: I am (well, I guess was) a self-certified Minimalist! I had a capsule wardrobe and only necessary items with meaning + intention in my home. So a collection was really out of my wheelhouse and norm. But I leaned into it, I embraced it, I surrendered to it. And I loved it!! Soon that one mug turned into 80+ with acrylic shelves stacked 6-high that lined the perimeter of our kitchen!!

I only have 5 left now, one for each family member. But the collection bug still lives in me, not that I gave in to it as much anymore tho. Untilll, I went to Disney. (closing one eye emoji) (read that fun story here) So being “New Disney”, I’ve started a pin collection. It’s small and modest, and limited mostly to tea ones. (read about that here!) After completing the Disney Princess Tea Party table + chairs blind box set, I cooled off for a minute. I still looked of course! But didn’t just buy any old ones. I think restricting myself to just “tea-esque” pins, keeps my collection humble. Untilll, March 5th haha. When I stumbled on a new collection being released in May! Disney Princess Teacups, are you kidding me!!?? I impatiently waited and admired them on the website from time to time. I had their release date marked in my calendar (I know, I’m sounding nerdier + dorkier by the second but I don’t care!) and- wait a minute. They were released on the website a whole nine days early!! I placed an order right away. Just 2. (there’s 6 in the full collection) I like to go into the stores and pick them for myself. But at least, this order will get me started.

I got a Mulan one!

So cute!

Then another Mulan one. (dang)

But it’s okay, cuz I did my second ever trade. And what are the chances there would be a tea one!!? Got this super cool 2017 Hidden Mickey Teapot Pin!

The release date came, and I anxiously awaited for when they would arrive to stores. Our local one hadn’t gotten any in yet. But how cute was my husband who had called around stores close to us and found some half an hour away! He insisted on taking me and we made a fun trip of it with our daughter. Thankfully I had some rewards, so I picked my specific 3 and excitedly purchased! He wanted to get me some also, and picked up another 3. (and trust, he had coupons too!)

So the plan was to open them close by, because there was an Ariel Teacup on their Trade Board. And if by chance I didn’t get the Ariel one, I could maybe trade a repeat…

And here’s where the ‘dorky’ goes overboard. Ready?

I like to FILM me opening them and recording my organic reaction!! (three laughing crying emojis) NO, I don’t post em anywhere. And NO, I don’t share em with anyone. Haha. It’s just for me!

So we found a bench and got to opening (and filming hehe).

My first one: Tiana. The one I really wanted. Obviously, because it’s olive!

Before opening my second, I say “Can you imagine we get them all right now?”

Aurora yay! (the second one I really wanted) Look at those roses!

I accidentally ripped the wrapper too far down on my third and already saw which one it was before filming. But I was THRILLED, cuz I could see that it was already different!

NO WAY!? Howww did I pull three DIFFERENT ones!!?!

Okay, now I was gonna open the Huz’s three… He filmed those hehe.

I opened- and Jasmine!! Me: “How did we all get like 4 different ones??!” I am in disbelief by this point. Of the 6 we purchased together, the first 4 that I have opened have been four different pins to this set!? (brain explosion emoji) With the Mulan one at home, I’m already 5 out of 6 complete AND I still have TWO more blind boxes to open! I just needed Ariel…

The 5th box was a repeat. But of my favorite one and I knew just the person I wanted to gift it to.

Okay, last box.

Please be Ariel. Please be Ariel.

What do you guys think I got…?

It was Ariel.

(closing mouth monkey emoji) The giggle that came out of my mouth was definitely Little Oly hehe!

I could not believe my life. HOW did I just open the entire remaining set to complete this blind box collection of 6 Disney Princess Teacups…IN ONE SITTING!!?!!!?!

Pure joy.

When I stop in for tea and have conversations with Owners, I love when they have asked me what I’ve been up to. (1) They know me well enough/read my website/follow up on my socials to know that I’m retired. And (2) they are interested and care enough to ask. I usually reply that I am regulating my nervous system and living in quiet. I’m sure you guys are over me saying that on here too, verbatim too huh haha. But this, THIS is part of what I’ve been up to! Allowing myself simple pleasures like collecting Disney pins and letting my inner child live.

We are 5 for 5 over here! Hehe. (covering mouth smiling emoji)

Tho I retired in November, I have still been enjoying leisure Teas with my favorite people. I of course went to Caviar both months it was offered, did the best collab with Muir’s in January to date, was so honored to get to visit Crown & Crumpet before their tea room in Ross closed, and then got to take the Huz to Rosewood today!

The MOMENT I walked into Rosewood Sand Hill last August, I already knew I was coming back. Couldn’t wait to take my husband because I wanted to share it with him! Unbeknownst to me, they would start a new collaboration with Flamingo Estate Teas (in Nov 2025) and we’d get to try an entirely new menu!! I’m not usually a smokey tea type of girl…but I was intrigued. So happy I went out the comfort zone cuz I got to try AND SAVOR their Smokey Rose Tea. Ugh, had a good 5 cups! Their sandwiches and sweets were slammin of course too…exactly why I returned. So happy the Huz got to try and we had the best time.

If you read my Rosewood post, you’ll know all about the candle we were all captivated by. I’ve been wanting this thing for 7 months k! We shared the most gorgeous walk to their spa and it was finally in my hands and waiting to come home with me!! Dood- our kitchen smells like a 5-star hotel lobby now and we can’t get enough. Best purchase in 2026 so far, hehe.

Other than Tea’ing it up with my peeps (ew, who says that), I’ve been living my prayer since 2024. Aside from working my day job and providing a home for my family, I have been living in Quiet like I’ve always wanted. Away from my phone, away from socials, away from overbooked calendars of commitments…and just enjoying my family. Being a wife, a mother, servant of God. And when I need a break from the “norm” I’ve always craved, I have my books. Currently in the middle of Viola Davis’ memoir. My health is unchanged. While parts of my body are deteriorating, I’m doing more physically. (I know, that doesn’t sound like it makes sense huh? But it’s okay, cuz my body hasn’t made sense for years.) Once I was done with the final test + lab + specialist + email result…and they said “there’s nothing more we could do for you” and “you will be in pain for the rest of your life”… I just wanted to live. For however long I get to, I just wanna live. So that’s what I’m doing. (happy smiley face emoji)

Thank you ALWAYS to the hundreds and thousands of you who visit and read my website everyday. My numbers have NEVER been so steadily high. I’m not sure what I can attribute that to!? Haha. But I am most grateful there are still people interested in what I have to say. And as long as there is, I will do my best to give you fun little updates on here! Love to yall.

“I just want to live it in peace, calm, and ease.” (taken from my Retirement story post)

It’s been roughly 2 months since I retired. And, you guessed it, it has NOT been peaceful or calming…OR easy, by any means! That above shot was taken from my Retirement Celebration Day. The Huz took the family on a coastal drive (one of our favorite things to do), stopped at that cool lighthouse (cool nature-framed shot by moi but of course!), then went to our favorite brewery. Yes, I even had a few pours! So nice.

So what I didn’t anticipate tho was, the Monday following my Retirement post- having 3 doctor’s appointments on that day. Actually in the month of November, to be more precise, I had a total of FOURTEEN! Those that are asking if I took time off to better care for my health needs…uh, NO!! That was not the plan! What I thought would be a standard check-in with my PCP escalated very quickly. She sent me to a couple Specialists, I was having in-home PT coming every week, and a 12-week treatment program was started. Whew! It was A LOT, to say the least. December was fewer, but still 8 doctor’s appointments in one month is a lot for anyone. I just had my last big one this week, then a few MRI’s in Jan. (sigh)

To pass the time and keep sane between appointments, I collected Disney pins!! Okay so, when we went to Disney earlier this year…I did not know that pin collecting was a thing?! I bought ONE cuz it was cute. But frankly, I didn’t know where I was gonna put it or what to do with it. Another time, a friend that went surprised me with one that made her think of me. Now I had 2! Maybe a month or so before, I stumbled on what are called “blind box pins”. Found out these particular ones were going to be released early November. So I waited, impatiently. The GLEE that came from me opening these tiny boxes of surprise pins was totally unexpected. Like I was giddy yall! My inner child had. A. Blast!! I mean, they were little tea party tables with tiers on them and matching chairs of different princesses!!?! Like, how could I NOT collect these?? It’s like they were made SPECIFICALLY FOR Olyve Rose of parTEA with me!! Hellooo! Thankfully, I only got 3 doubles…which were perfect to gift to my daughter, Cutie Jr. and Cutie Sr.!

Another fun unforeseen thing that happened/is happening… This website has been CONSISTENTLY bringing in the numbers!!?? (three shocked face emojis) This is WITHOUT a social media presence yall!! (another shocked face emoji) Dare I say sometimes my numbers have even been better than when I was regularly posting on socials!? Hahahah! I AM SO GRATEFUL. When I decided to retire and get off socials, I wondered just how much my views would drop. But (as I’ve said many times before), I have thee best + most loyal Readers on the planet. *Shout Out* to those reading from Australia, France, and Singapore who have been blowin us up!! I see yall. And a new location viewing from Laos, welcome! Thank you for CONTINUING to hang out with us here. Yall mean so much to me.

After a Leg is done, I usually like to share my Final Thoughts and personally thank my guests that have come…etc etc. This is going to be a bit different. I’m gonna do the little summary for Leg 4, sure. But then I am going to add some Highlights and name some special people (I don’t usually include names), from the ENTIRE TOUR since 2014! And at the end of all that, a cool little feature- I’m going to list everyone (just initials to keep my personal friends’ privacy) that’s ever joined a tea party with me and the number of times they’ve attended our California Tea House Tour!!

LEG 4

This one was messy. No matter how much you plan (even my meticulous organized OCD self), there are just some things you won’t have control over. There were way too many Spots this Leg that just either didn’t have their act together, stopped their tea service, or weren’t sure if/when they were bringing it back. And I wasn’t gonna bother with any of that, so I just left them out. Quite a few, however, also popped up so we had additional ones to visit in place. I did discover some new gems, so I was really happy about that. I’m def going back to The Caviar Co. (already been twice more since hehe), Beacon Grand, Elliston, Kiki’s, and Rosewood Sand Hill FO SHO. Found my new “Regulars” too. These Sweethearts just make it so EASY for me, and I love that. I will invite them to Tea anytime, all the time. My health was slowly deteriorating all year, so I was getting slower with each new Spot Visit. Lots of times I didn’t even bring my DSLR, so the shots you see were just from my phone… Thankfully, my girls all knew how to support me when needed. Thank you to all who waited for me + my cane, parked closer (VIP paking with my placard heyy), offered their arm, or just made me feel like a human being. My husband said this could be my last Leg. And while sometimes it was a struggle, I’m glad I did it. I can’t say how many times at Tea, my friends talked about special moments on the Tour for them or how much they liked or disliked a place I brought them to. Those memories will be etched in my heart for always.

HIGHLIGHTS

When we met Amy, the owner of Crown & Crumpet, and she showed us such a good time I just knew this was going to be the start of something extraordinary.

When someone from this Spot searched for my name on facebook (I don’t have an account there anymore) to write me a nasty message about how I shared a FACT about his place. Changed my name on there after that.

Finding my new favorite go-to afternoon tea spot, The English Rose. I lost count how many tea parties I hosted there after that.

When we were offered the teeniest tiniest pre-selected [for us] tea sandwiches at this Spot and were treated awfully. Then went to have dinner at the Beach Chalet directly after because we were starving! But not before we all had to stop at the bathroom downstairs first where it smelled like the worst long lost dump you could ever imagine!!

When we met Ramesh at The Ritz-Carlton, and he gave us each to-go boxes with fresh new sweets and new jars of condiments to take home.

When we went to this Tea Spot and the owner came to our table and asked us: “Are you parTEA with me??” and was so excited to meet us! Decade made.

That potato salad from Muir’s Tea Room.

The filthiest tea pot spouts I’ve ever seen in my entire life. Writing about it. Writing the owner. And him writing me back, telling me that they bought things to clean it and are now having their staff trained on how to do it.

Meeting Mom (Christine) and Aubree (Chef) at Muir’s. Not knowing they were going to become like family.

The exemplary tea sandwich sizes at Malaya Tea Room.

That egg salad sandwich at Alexander’s Patisserie.

Having tea on a TRAIN!!

The Executive Chef Joseph L. Paire for Claremont Hotel coming out to meet + chill with me and the Huz.

Seeing owner Pauline at Dartealing Lounge, and her coming out to meet + speak with my girls and making it really special for them.

Having THREE COLLAB’s in a month!!?!

Revisiting my 2nd favorite tea room, only to be disappointed with how much their quality has lowered and moving them 28 spots DOWN on my raTEAng. (never done before)

Being the very first tea party reservation at K On The Go and meeting owners Justin + Tea, not yet knowing that this would become our 2nd home and we’d be seeing them often! And having my very first (and only) Guest Writer, my Daughter!!

Having the Hotel Manager at the Claremont come out to meet me and me having something in my teeth, sitting in front of my plate of One-Bite’s. (melting emoji)

Caviar.

The candle at Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel.

TEA GUESTS

Of the 78 official Tea House and Tea Room Visits, here’s how many my 73 friends + family have attended!

V.Ro. “Kika” – 23

M.K.K. “the Huz” – 21

N.V. – 17

T.L. “Florecita” – 14

M.S. – 13

S.M. “Earl Grey Gal” – 13

F.F. “Rizitos”- 13

A.P. “Mariposa” – 10

B.A. “Cutie Jr.” – 7

P.T. – 6

I.M. “Seat Mate Date/Wife of Filipino” – 6

Mar.A. “Cutie” – 5

E.B. “Big Sis” – 5

E.R. “Indy” – 5

S.E. “Daughter” – 5

R.L. – 4

Li.C. – 4

Me.A. – 3

A.V. – 3

J.C. – 3

Mic.M. – 2

P.A. – 2

A.L. – 2

H.M. – 2

F.S. – 2

M.D. “Mrs. Mamoa” – 2

Mir.M. – 2

Ma.M. – 2

I.S. – 2

E.S. – 2

L.L. – 2

T.H. – 2

T.W. – 2

St.R. – 2

1-Timer’s: G.M., R.P., R.R., C.P., V.H., Lo.C., B.L., N.M., M.V., V.Ri., Sha.M., Shi.M., R.C., S.C., O.I., NOVA, Mo.M., A.M., L.M., A.O., Ja.M., J.B., R.M., E.E., Jo.M., C.F., E.A., S.A. “Cutie’s Mr.”, M.C., D.L., J.S., R.D., A.T., L.E., So.R., H.A., C.R., Y.A., Man.A.

*SHOUT OUT* to Kika for going to 30% of all the Spots!! And to the Huz for coming with me to most of my Collabs and Late Entries!!

And here’s something fun I thought of including last minute… This is a FULL LIST of all the different places + countries that have visited + read our blog!! Hello to all you beautiful people and thank you for visiting my website! If you are from one of these countries PLEASE say ‘hello’ in the comments and tell us which one?!

United States

Albania

Algeria

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Bangladesh

Belarus

Belgium

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Brazil

Bulgaria

Cambodia

Canada

Chile

China

Columbia

Côte d’Ivoire

Croatia

Curaçao

Cyprus

Czechia

Denmark

Ecuador

Egypt

European Union

Finland

France

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Guatemala

Hong Kong

Honduras

Hungary

India

Indonesia

Iraq

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kenya

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malaysia

Maldives

Malta

Martinique

Mexico

Moldova

Mongolia

Myanmar (Burma)

Namibia

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Pakistan

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Portugal

Puerto Rico

Qatar

Romania

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Africa

South Korea

Spain

Sri Lanka

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

Tanzania

Thailand

Türkiye

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Uruguay

U.S. Virgin Islands

Venezuela

Vietnam

Zambia

Zimbabwe

IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY, PLEASE LEAVE US YOUR EMAIL IN THE FORM BELOW. YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THE NEXT POST.

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok

So I was supposed to have a Last Entry Tea this Saturday, but the owner called me and they’re having some issues with their tea supplier (cuz of the tariffs)…so I didn’t think it would be fair to visit them when they weren’t fully ready. He was really kind + accommodating about it too. I figured since it’s been a while (because we’ve had back-to-back Teas to write about), that I would hit you with an About The Author post. I’ve been flirting with this idea…and now’s as good a time as any.

When people find out about what I do, I’m almost always asked the question: Do you ever get any pushback when you write a negative post?

I’m not like a family vlogger or anything…saying that I am only gonna post happy stuff to keep the mood light around here. Afterall, I AM known as the “brutally honest” Tea Room Reviewer and I’ve always given yall the real deal Holyfield. So this post won’t be far off from anything I’ve written before. Just maybe some BTS stuff I’ve never chosen to include in my posts…but might have brought up if asked in-person.

Here’s some anecdotes for ya…

After only our 2nd visit, I wrote something about being overwhelmed that their WHOLE tea service was on ONE plate. Yes: the scone + fixings, 4 tea sandwiches, 2 savories, and sweets = one plate! A few days later, I got a furious message on facebook of all places from the owner of that Spot. Seems he searched for my name + account, just to write this message. He was upset that I had said that they put everything on one plate. But they did!! And I didn’t say anything incorrect! I changed my name on my website and facebook account after that…and I’m no longer on fb anyway.

Truth is, one of the hardest parts about doing this is meeting an owner after I’ve had mediocre tea. Especially…especially, especially…if they are perfectly nice. If I know I just had bad tea and now I gotta write about it, I honestly wanna just drop my card on the table and haul booty outta there. But sometimes, sometimes- the owners get excited to see my card and come out and wanna meet me. Which I really don’t mind meeting them, not at all. It’s not about that. I appreciate meeting new people and hearing their stories. And I’m not afraid to write about my truth, either. Not at all. What’s tough is when they are wonderful people- I don’t want that creating a bias toward my write-up.

I had just written a Thread about how I would say I “could be” only one comment away from someone not liking how I said something and all of the world wide web bandwagoning and me being cancelled. My son quickly humbled me and said I would have to be “popular” first, in order for enough people to know me and cancel me. (HAHAHA.) But in the 10+ years that I had been doing this, someone did finally decide to add their 2-cents on one of my TikTok voiceovers just recently. So, I say ‘slammin’ a lot. I’ve been using that word since 2001! And in one of my TikTok posts, I had called a hotel’s tea sandwiches: slammin. Someone got on there and TRIED to insult my class, saying that I didn’t belong at this specific hotel if I am labeling something of theirs ‘slammin’. I could’ve commented my thoughts on them starting their own website and writing their own review back…but I just deleted and blocked them. Things like that don’t bother me enough to be affected by it. I don’t have time for nonsense.

Something that does annoy me sometimes is the behavior and politics of social media. Particularly, from some social media managers from certain Spots. (ooh, now it’s getting juicy huh!?) I’m not messy, so I won’t say who. But if they’re reading my blog posts, I hope this helps them think about how weird they’re being and treat other people that help them- kinder. I’ve said this before and I will continue to say “I am not an Influencer or a Content Creator.” Have I done collabs where Tea Spots in a sense hire me to write about + promote their tea service in exchange for a compensated meal? Yes. Have I filled out Influencer Agreements? Yes. (Also: Is the first thing I bring up in our agreement that I will be writing an HONEST review? Yes.) But I am and always will be a Writer first and foremost. Look, we are not owed any sort of gratitude or public commendation or anything. But THEY know and I know the amount of business I have brought them. Not bragging, just facts. A simple ‘Thank You’ goes a long way, right? But I have had certain Spots follow me on social media, DM back and forth (friendly + business), accept collaborated posts, HIRE me, and…unfollow me!!?! HAHAHA, like whyyy? That’s mad weird brooo, haha. What are you doing?! There are also plenty of times where I’ve posted Spots (on my own free will) and brought them business. I’ll message them that a post has blown up or that I’m sending tons of people their way (who have been DMing me inquiring about them) (not for any recognition but again just to be friendly), only for them to respond “That’s great to hear” and tell me that they’re getting lots of new reservations. No ‘thank you’, no nothing. It’s rude. Don’t get me wrong tho. There are WAAAY MORE Tea Spots and Owners or Social Media Managers that are grateful and kind, than there are who are not. Just giving you some tea…of a different kind! (wink)

Anyywhooo, this post wasn’t meant to be written in a complaining spirit. Just wanted to give you some very real behind-the-scenes tales for your entertainment! Hope this holds you over until our next review…thanks for reading!

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok

I touched on this in my recent About the Author post…about how big of a role Music plays in my life. And then I said I was gonna do its own post, buut that’s kind of a loaded topic for me. So I figured- I can just share in increments! For this one, we’ll be discussing my all-time favorite albums and my all-time favorite songs. Deal?

Thanks to Google for these images. (cheesy smile emoji) During the Pandemic, there was a small trend going around that asked for your top 6 favorite albums. That’s why I have 6 of em… Here are mine, from number 1 to number 6.

ALL-TIME FAVORITE ALBUMS, NO SKIPS!

1. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill

2. II by Boyz II Men

3. Dreams of Freedom: Ambient Translations of Bob Marley in Dub by Bob Marley

4. Calling All Lovers by Tamar Braxton

5. The Places You Gave Come to Fear the Most by Dashboard Confessional

6. Rock Steady by No Doubt

I have been trying to get them all on vinyl, tho my collection started late and I’ll have to dig through crates to find 2 of them since they probably don’t/won’t make em anymore. Such a different sound on vinyl!! I didn’t know about him yet when that trend came about… So for an Honorable Mention, I’ll put down Something to Feel by TEEKS! (Do yourselves a favor and look him up!!)

Okay, now, for Favorite Songs… I have a playlist on my phone called #1s and for some reason I stopped at 14. I thought I had 15…? But I can’t seem to figure out what the 15th song was or would be. So, we’ll stick with the 14! Haha.

1. “On Bended Knee” by Boyz II Men
2. “Love and War” by Tamar Braxton
3. “I Refuse” by Aaliyah
4. “Hold On” by H.E.R.
5. “Easy On Me” by Jessie J
6. “Circles” by Tamar Braxton
7. “Impossible” by Christina Aguilera
8. “Love of My Life” by Brian McKnight
9. “Empty Boxes” by Tamar Braxton
10. “Lost One” by Jazmine Sullivan
11. “I Was Here” by Beyonce
12. “To Be Loved” by Adele
13. “It’s Over” by Drop’n Harmony (DnH)
14. “Gone” by Kelly Clarkson

As you can tell, I love me a good strong ballad. I love songs that tell stories. I love songs with a great arrangement. And, I love songs with a healthy crescendo!! Soul is my genre of choice (even named my daughter after it), but I listen to almost anything + everything. R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz…etc etc. Lots of Lauryn (no favorites of hers cuz I love em all), lots of Teeks, Eli-Mac, HER, Adele, Alicia… P!nk, Selena, Chris Brown… Freddie Mercury, Mariah Carey… 2pac (clean versions), Celine Dion, Christina Aguilera… Bruno Mars, old school 90’s hip-hop, original underground rap artists… Stylistics, Chicago, Stevie, Smokey, Luther… 112, K-Ci & JoJo… Boyz II Men OF COURSE in heavy rotation… J Boog was my kids’ first concert, Anuhea, Kolohe Kai, Fia, Sammy Johnson, Josh Tatofi… I used to be maaajorly into Reggae. Selecta Bam Bam was my favorite, Matisyahu too… And Freestyle, of course. “Take Me in Your Arms”, “Can’t We Try”, “If You Leave Me Now”…

So now you know my music preferences. What does it tell you about me? Hehe. I’m curious to know!? Leave in the comments here, or DMs on IG, or on Threads.

So…we were supposed to do a Surprise Tea this past Sunday, but that fell through. It was the first Sunday I was available during the Tour, so when reservations opened I booked it right away. It said nothing about being Easter-themed. Sweet. But when I went to check my confirmation- yeah, it was Easter-themed. Bummer. I wanted to try their ‘normal’ tea service, so we’re waiting… Still no calendar out from our May Spot, so I may just have these 2 months off. Not my favorite because I like to make my time count. And I’m DEF not rearranging the entire Tour cuz of these 2 Spots… I’ll just add em in when I can. Aaanyhooo, since there was no Tea Review post for you this week, I thought I should at least pop out an Author one for ya. I think I’m gonna keep adding to these Music ones as I am moved. Increments, like I said.

Thank you for taking the time to read these Get To Know Me ones! Still funny for me to talk about myself, but I’m slowly refining the balance of what I want to share and what I need to keep for me. This is the internet after all. And I’m sure you’ve seen/read those posts on monitoring spirits (“trolls” I think they’re called). They could do what they want…hi guys! (wave emoji) Donate while you’re here hehe! (wink)

See my loyal Readers + Subscribers whenever the next Tea happens! mwa

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok

I had 2 other topics in line for today’s About The Author post, buut I don’t wanna talk about them! I really just want to talk about our recent trip to Disney.

Our family hasn’t been out of the Bay Area since 2019. We’re not big travelers anyhow, and when we do go it’s only a couple hours away. The furthest we’ve been was when we were coerced into visiting the narc mom.

I grew up a Disney kid tho. My bio mom was an ultra-fanatic, so we went AT LEAST once a year. For her, not for us. And after that, the last time I was there was my senior trip in ’98. Soo, it’s been 27 years for me.

Our family was in desperate need of a trip. The Huz even declared that the first thing we were spending our tax return on this year was just that. But late October last year, we got a text from dear friends inviting us to join them for Disney. We honestly thought we were just never gonna go. Our kids were never interested, cuz they never saw the movies. And for a family who lives a simplified life, we just never thought we could ever afford it. As a matter of fact, when our kids were little- they thought the Disney STORE was DisneyLAND and that was enough for them!! Haha! This invitation was too good to pass up and we adored this family, so it was a simple yes for us.

We took our time traveling to get there and spent our first night at Downtown Disney. Never been, didn’t know anything about it. Um, how cool!! We had these amazing burgers for dinner and walked around a bit, looking through a few shops.

The next day we did Disneyland. Days and weeks prior, we would ask each other around the dinner table what we were looking forward to most. I would always answer: “Just being on Main Street.” Well that, and the gift shops. I didn’t even have anything to buy!! I just wanted to look at everything! And sure enough, as soon as we entered and walked on Main Street, it hit me- we were in DISNEYLAND!!?! I was brought right back to Little Me. I don’t have very many fond memories of my childhood, but walking into Disneyland had all the nostalgia for sure.

I needed to use the bathroom. (I’m not gonna say too much about the friends we traveled with to protect their privacy…plus, this is my story) We were taken to this exclusive lounge, as they wanted us to see + use the nice bathroom. I had to be taken up by elevator, since I was in my wheelchair. I just had to use the bathroom real quick, no biggie. When we got up there and the elevator doors opened, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Thee Mickey and Minnie were standing right in front of me. I paused real quick to realize what a big deal this was. There are scheduled times they are brought out in the park and LINES formed to meet them. But here they were, standing in front of me, waving!? SO UNEXPECTED. There was a handler standing next to them. Yes I needed to use the bathroom…but I wasn’t gonna just let them be right there and not even say hi! I asked if I could say hi and their handler said of course. When I tell you they FAWNED OVER me like they KNEW my inner child and KNEW she wanted to feel seen!! They barely even acknowledged my daughter who was pushing my wheelchair (they did finally say hi to her real quick tho). She said Mickey made a “pwa” sound when he kissed me! Tears were rolling down my face, I couldn’t control it. I asked if we could take a picture and again the handler said of course. The tears still kept rolling. By the time we were done and met my son (oh yeah I did use the bathroom), he was like “are you good?” haha cuz I was still crying! It wasn’t that I was “starstruck” per se, it was all Little Me. The way that they just gave me all this attention (which side note – I did notice cast members waving + smiling at me and not so much my son while he was pushing my wheelchair, like it’s something they are told/taught to do) just made Adult Me feel so loved. I understand the Disney “magic”.

The next day we did DCA. Again, never been. And that place was even cooler! We had the best hosts that knew all the cool rides and places to eat and things to do + see. I loved Soarin’ and the Cars ride! I was honestly just so happy to BE THERE. It didn’t even matter what we were doing…I was so GRATEFUL. My daughter, my only 13-year-old daughter, said something pretty profound. After telling her how happy I was to be at Disney, she says “This time you get to do it for yourself, and not for her.” (speaking of the narc bio mom) Are you crying?? What an incredible thing for her to think of and say!! #InnerChildHealing

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok

In my second to last About the Author post, I talked about my love for art and my being a fine art collector. I also said I would do a whole separate post on it, so here we are! Aside from this being more on how to get to know the Writer behind this website, what does this have to do with Tea…? Well to make the connection: one of my draws to Afternoon Tea Culture was the interior design you find in most tea rooms. There, I made it work haha.

I thought I was going to start with one of the first pieces I bought… But actually, it goes further back. So I’ll start there.

When I followed my old Old Navy Manager (she was a proxy mom to me) to work at Michaels Craft Stores, she put me in Custom Framing. Which was perfect for me as I’ve always loved art. I learned really fast and I got really good. One of my favorite jobs to date! In no time, I became the Senior Certified Framer. But the best part of my days was when I got to listen to people’s stories of their beloved pieces and help them come up with a mat + frame that would complement their art. Again because of my tetrachromat eyes, I would put together unexpected combinations that would highlight their paintings or tapestries or posters. I slowly started framing my own pieces, then our friends would come in to see me…it became a passion. Before this, I would visit art galleries and just observe and admire. But now I was going to art shows and buying pieces! A loved show the Huz + I attended was by artists that created cover art and promo posters for musicians. We have original pieces for concerts of Bob Marley, 311, and the Gorillaz.

I got busy with motherhood and parenting, so the art purchasing kinda stopped. Now I was putting up family pictures and kids’ art on the fridge. But when my babies got older and I had the time for home decor again, I started to get my feet a little bit wet. I even started an Instagram account dedicated to my decor ideas, a ‘diary’ if you will.

May 2019 – I remember walking through a food truck event with my family. Yes, I’m there for the food. But my favorite part of those things are the booths! I love seeing all the independent vendors and small business shops of crafts + art. One in particular caught my eye. It was of a woman with really exaggerated long hair. I bought 3 pieces of his!! Haha.

July 2019 – My Sister dropped off a bunch of extra art supplies she had lying around the house, including some canvases. All different sizes. When I started my trauma recovery and started painting, it was mostly objects. I had never tried my hand at canvas before… I created my first piece on 7/18/19. There were some tiny ones from that box too, a 3-inch by 3-inch. I had been painting abstract seascapes and wanted to keep with the coastal theme. I was obsessed with Mexican blankets. They just reminded me so much of our time spent with the ocean, and that brought me so much comfort. I love their pattern and thought I would try and paint one! Something about creating those lines over and over, calmed me. I painted more. Then more. Didn’t know what to do with them, until someone suggested I try to sell them online. What? No one cares about these! I tried. They sold out. I kept creating more and people kept buying more. One customer commissioned TWENTY to be made!! When I moved onto serape blankets, oh everyone wanted those. These were tiny canvases. Intricate pieces. Some took me HOURS to finish. The first time I felt “successful” was when I sold one of my 3″x3″ paintings for $125.00 and someone was actually EXCITED to pay me that much money for my art!!?! Yeah. Talk about brain explosion emojis! After I made my first couple hundred bucks, I went back to that artist (Chris Ouk of Wikid Canvas) I found at the food truck event- and commissioned my own piece. What a full circle moment.

We were deep into the Pandemic now. Stimulus checks were coming in. We have always lived a simple life, the 4 of us (5 including the dog). We don’t travel, we don’t eat out much. Once needs were taken care of, we were allowed to each spend on whatever brought us joy…especially since we were just ALWAYS HOME. I chose art. I had a finsta where I followed all my favorite artists. David Garibaldi, Tim Okamura, Erin Yoshi… Camilla West, Robert Roth, Stephen Magsig… Classic favorites: Norman Rockwell, Margaret Keane, Rothko… New favorites: Loui Jover, Lindsay Rapp, Leslie Weaver, Jessica Durant, Claudia Tremblay, Amanda Ryan Tucker… I was heavily tapping into my Hawaiian side at the time, so I fancied Punkyaloha, Aloha de Mele, Mayan Llanera, Kat Reeder… Coastal art of course: Chilvers, Abel Arts, Courtney Mixed… I honestly could go on and on. And on. And on and on and on.

I began purchasing and collecting. Our walls started to fill up. There is not a room in our entire house that doesn’t have art in it. I always say our home decor is like Art Gallery meets Beachy VW Van hahah! (cuz I also wanted comfort right, so we have these huge ugly dark brown cozy couches with serape blankets hanging on the back of them) But, I was able to acquire quite the collection and have vignettes carefully created all throughout the house. I love it here.

In my imagination while planning this post, I visualized taking gorgeous shots of all the corners of our home and sharing them here. That, or maybe tediously looking up each and every piece I have bought over the years and linking them. However, some things have to be kept private and/or left to the imagination or interpretation. It’s more fun that way! So I encourage you to look up these artists! I didn’t link them so you could have the honor and excitement of doing that part yourselves. I hope you find a new favorite and start a collection of your own! (if you haven’t already got one) Thank you for taking an interest in my interests!! Next one I think will be about music…so leave your email with us, so you don’t miss out!

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok

Some reasons why I always hear “You should write a book!” (that I could share here):

1. I skipped kindergarten.

2. I won my 3rd grade Math-a-Thon’s Grand Prize and took home a 10-speed bike.

3. I sang the National Anthem for my high school graduation.

3b. The girl who was partnered to sing with me, turned off my mic but I was still louder than her without it.

4. I met Robin Williams.

5. Someone wrote a song about me.

6. I was on a TV show in Japan.

7. I worked for DreamWorks twice.

8. Wanya Morris from Boyz II Men serenaded me.

9. I am a Tetrachromat, which means I have a 4th color receptor in my eyes.

10. I am part of the 2% of the population that carries the gene that doesn’t produce odor in my armpits or feet.

11. I am fascinated with names, know most everyone around me’s middle name, and have had the honor of naming/spelling quite a few friends’ baby’s names.

12. I used to be a foot model.

Submit your questions or requests for more context on each of these in the comments or in my DMs heheh. Thank you for reading!

Follow us @parTEAwithmeBlog on Instagram | Threads | TikTok