tea talk two.

sorry for the corny title, but it's another tea discussion.

i had a new customer come in yesterday with three school-aged children. of course, i am all in their business and said "why aren't you guys in school?" and promptly knelt down by the chair of the middle girl. they said they had just moved here a week ago and were beginning school tomorrow (today). i said, "that is awesome! are you excited?" and of course, two out of three were, the one i was kneeling by said "no, i'm HUNGRY!!" i said "you are totally in the right place," and proceeded to take their drink orders.

the grandmother (who looked young, like she was the mother) wanted herbal tea, which we didn't have on hand. i went to my private collection (in my pocketbook) and promptly presented some herbal chai, which she gratefully accepted. i went to the store on my way home and got two different brands of "assorted" herbal teas to take in today.

so the grandmother and her husband arrive today for lunch, which reminded me of my terrible memory and the fact that the boxes of tea were sitting on my counter :( i offered again the *stash* which she, again, accepted. she said "the kids are in school!" i said "wow, that's terrific - were they nervous?" and we chatted a bit. i found out that she and her husband have custody, which didn't surprise me - i almost already knew that - and i said "they are all wonderful children - they are blessings and are blessed to have you in their lives." she said "they sure loved you - you got right down on their level and made them feel so great - - " she smiled and i walked away.

i have the tea, by the door, ready to go to work tomorrow. it's the simple things that have people coming back, i guess.

5 comments:

Julie D. said...

What a great story. I can see your place being like the little neighborhood get together spot, especially with your giving from your own little stash.

rita said...

I agree, Julie! I want to come by! :)

~pen~ said...

oh, i would so love a visit :) i have no idea where anyone is from (other than julie d.), but regardless of what time you'd arrive, i'd have coffee ~or hot water~ waiting...

p

Unknown said...

The perfect little neighbourhood place. I'm itching to go back to my favorite during our visit home. Funny you showed up on the scene when ya did martha - I was in a coffee shop last week just itching for the sense of familiarity that comes with one of those havens of the heart. And here you are!

~pen~ said...

okay, on a limb here...

www.cologneavenuecafe.com - check out our website, we have pics down the left-hand side of our restaurant and family and everything else.

let me know what you think - maybe i'll put it in my profile? but then how transparent would i be??