Emerald hills and turquoise seas
Douglas J. Olsen, Paradise
Endless canvas brushed with trees
That sway so gently in the hue
Of watercolor azure blue
Waves that ripple through my mind
Touch sun-kissed sugar sands of time
As whispered winds so softly sigh
A dreamlike lazy lullaby
OK, so I may not be in a tropical location this morning, but we’re still experiencing tropical temperatures, high humidity, and sunshine sparkling off a backyard pool. I’m hanging with my folks and my kids this week, and that’s paradise for me.

Iced tea is essential and David’s Tropic Tango fits the bill. This caffeine-free sweet and fruity infusion contains apple, candied mango, candied papaya, hibiscus blossoms, beetroot, carrot, and cornflower blossoms.

This tea has a tart, fruity flavour that makes your mouth water. Like a vibrant tropical flower, the beetroot ensures a bright, appealing, rosy colour. The predominant flavours are mango, papaya and coconut. It is sweet and tangy, with a slightly artificial flavour, that is accentuated when served as a hot tea. But as an iced tea it is quite refreshing! Sweet enough in fact, I didn’t feel the need to add any sweetener. Someone suggested adding soda water or a pop like gingerale for the perfect party punch! Now to just close my eyes and let my imagination sail away…
You look out into the water; the waves make the most beautiful sound. A place you find peace and comfort…
Ralph P. Quinonez, The Peace of the Beach
A place to clear your thoughts and leave everything behind.
Happy Monday!