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White beaches. Blue water. A floral whisper in the gentle breeze brushing your cheek. Peace. Tranquility. Rest. Sounds like paradise. But instead of waking in Shangri-La, I wake up to Canadian winter. I dislike winter. Last Sunday’s storm saw winds reach 110 km/hr. By Wednesday, we were buried under another 15 cm before temperatures dropped again into the -20s. I’ve already talked about the ice. I’m so over it!

“Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour.” – John Boswell

So instead of mourning the winter wonderland, I’m sipping something tropical.

coconilla_ed

This Oolong tea by Steeped Tea is blended with coconut chips, coconut flakes, pumpkin bits, lemongrass, pumpkin seeds, pink peppercorns, marigold and sunflower blossoms, and vanilla.

Pumpkin on its own provides some vitamin A and C, as well as fibre. It also aids the immune and digestive systems, and may help with the absorption of glucose. Marigold and sunflower blossoms are similar to calendula petals. Lemongrass is related to many Asian, African, Australian, and other tropical island plants in the grass family. It’s smell resembles lemons and it is commonly used in herbal teas.

Coconut was the predominant flavour in this tea. Because of its strong antioxidant properties and health benefits, coconut can help lower cholesterol, improve digestion, stabilize glucose levels, and boost the immune system.

I may not be able to fly away, but this coconilla oolong tea, with its bold coconut and fragrant vanilla flavour, is an easy and inexpensive compromise. The grassy notes from the lemongrass are subtle, which I appreciated since I’m not a huge fan. It also has a hint of heat from the pink peppercorns (reminiscent of a sultry night?). A little imagination paired with a great book, and I can almost hear the ocean!

You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me. – C. S. Lewis

Hdppy Monday!