The WASP lifestyle is arguably almost completely derived from the English way of life. Many of the rich families from the eastern United States witnessed the English style as they vacationed or studied abroad. One truly elegant tradition the English taught us is to enjoy a good cup of tea. It is amazing how the world comes to a screeching halt for tea time while living in an upper class English family. And truly, it is something we need today in the United States, and do I mean to promote the sale of tea? No! I simply am stating the need for a time to relax each day -- a time to put away cell phones, computers, etc. and enjoy something. It doesn't have to be tea, and for me it probably would be something else. It could be a 30 minute nap, or 30 minutes of reading time. Maybe, even a puff on the ole' pipe. Though I haven't done such as I promote of late, I intend to start today. And while you find your relaxing activity, let these photos of Oxford students in their fine dress enjoying tea inspire you.
5 comments:
Nice photos, Richard. They look somewhat familiar ;) Interesting, that there's not a 3/2 roll in sight.
Absolutely right Richard!
Our tea drinking habits in the States obviously have nothing to do with being a former member of the British Empire. It was the vacationing and studious upper crust of the Eastern seaboard that discovered this mysterious custom on their travels far and wide.
You taught History, right?
Richard,
Tea time in Britain is usually dinner time. If someone invites you to tea, they're inviting you, usually for the evening meal.
I lived in Britain for quite some time, and I too thought that everything stopped for 'teatime'. I was surprised when I was invited several times and indeed, it turned out to be the evening meal.
In which people still 'dress.'
Even in the poorest of families, people still find a way to look nice and keep a nice home. And they never let socieconomic status dictate their manners. Almost everyone is gracious and mannerly. I loved living there!
Kathie
Re the top pic: the only leather more worn than the chair seems to be on the shoes.
Is that raw leather showing on the left foot?
And as for the white shoes on the other fella ... filty. Whether canvas or leather.
Where are all the women in these photos? Teatime is always better with women.
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