Christmas Memories with Christmas Tree....

For everyone there are certain things which remind them of Christmas. It can be foods, smells, experiences or things, but each one brings back memories of Christmas past and without them, the holiday is somewhat lacking.

For me, one of those things is the Christmas Tree china from Spode.

Spode Christmas Tree China

Photo Courtesy Spode

Introduced in 1938, this pattern was one of the most important designs for the Spode Company. In May 1938, Sydney Thompson, sales agent for Spode in America wanted a new design for the Christmas season. Thomas Hassall, art director for Spode asked Harold Holdway, one of the Spode designers to produce a design. Holdway created a plate with a central design of a Christmas Tree with presents hanging from the branches.

After a few revisions to the design, salesmen were swamped with orders. Over the following years, the Christmas Tree pattern developed into an entire table setting as well as extra serving pieces. While the most common border of the plate is a green band, it had also been available with a red band,

About 1962, the pattern switched from transfer printing and hand-painting to slide-off lithography.

For years this china has symbolized Christmas gatherings for many Americans and is the worlds most recognized holiday design. But despite its popularity, the Spode factory closed in 2009 and today, new production is made in China.

Personally, I think the Chinese production is not as warm as the English china. Am I biased? Perhaps, but thankfully there is still a market for the English made Christmas Tree china, and I seek it out when I can, leaving the new Chinese pieces for others.

So with December upon us, once again the beloved Christmas Tree china has made its appearance. And last years regulars are now augmented by new finds and additions to brighten the holiday and bring back memories of Christmas past.

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Running and Staying Warm in the Cold...

Winter is one of the toughest times to start running. Between the cold temperatures and the slick running surfaces, it is enough to drive even the most dedicated runner indoors. And for the beginning runner there is the added expense of winter running gear. But for those of you who have decided to run as a result of a New Year's resolution, or are continuing to run as part of a new found desire to get healthier, there a few things you will need to make this time of the year a bit more bearable when running.

As I have said before, and I cannot say this enough, begin by spending your money wisely on the most important part of your running gear, your shoes. Find a good running store. This is not the time to try and save a few dollars ordering something online or at the mall store where the person who is selling shoes is as likely to be running as I was a year ago. Find a serious and friendly running store. They should not only fit you properly for shoes, but also have you run in the shoes so they can help fit you as well so you can find the best shoe for your feet. And think foot comfort before you start worrying about how they look. Spend your money well here and you will at least be taking care of your feet and body. I'm not going to talk about my shoes, because they are just that, my shoes and they work for me, but they may not work for everyone.

As the weather starts to get cold, you will find those clothes you wore in the the cool days of fall just are not enough to keep you warm, especially when you are standing around waiting for a winter run to begin. This past weekend I participated in an 8k with a temperature of 28F at the race start at 7am and only 32F at 8am after I'd finished. What I wore kept me warm enough at the start to be comfortable, but not too warm. By about the second mile I'd worked up a sweat, and with zippers was about to cool down a bit. By the time I finished the modern fabrics dried out quickly enough that I was able to keep warm without developing a chill. So With that in mind, I'll give a bit of a run down on what I wear for these cold days.

For these cold days I pull out the Balega Trail Buster 2 Quarter socks which cover the ankles and offers some nice warmth when you need it. Made with a combination of Drynamix Polyester, Arylic, Wool, Nylon and Elastane, these socks kept my feet dry and warm throughout my run as well as afterwards. With no seams to rub between your foot and shoe, combined with cushioning on the bottom and mesh construction on the top for ventilation, these are my sock of choice. 

When it gets this cold, I turn in my shorts for a pair of Nike Pro Combat Core Compressions Shorts combined with the Saucony Boston Pant.

The combination of the two layers gives me the warmth that I need without being bulky or too warm once I've started running. And while I may feel cool for a few minutes after the run, that does not last long and I am quite comfortable. The Saucony Boston Pants are semi-fitted so they are not tights, but also not baggy and loose like traditional sweat pants. Featuring two side seam pockets with zippers, they are well designed to carry what you need for your run or race.

With the 28F temperature at the start of the race, I decided to layer, three layers to be exact. All technical fabrics to hopefully wick away moisture as I began the race, but keep me warm and dry both before and after the race. My base layer was a long sleeve running shirt which was a race premium at my first December race, the Asics Thermopolis LT Crew. A super soft shirt which offers exceptional comfort and dries quickly after a run.

For my middle layer I added another race premium, this from my second December race, the Asics Lite-Show Favorite 1/2 zip. With thomb loops and a pocket for your iPod, this would probably be enough if I didn't need to stand around both before and after the race.

For the outer layer I wore a simple black North Face 1/4 zip. I wish I could say more about the model, but I haven't a clue what the model is called. It lacks pockets, but is a great jacket for those very cold days.

To top things off I wear the Mizuno Breath Thermo gloves and beanie. Designed to turn body moisture into heat for added warmth, they are excellent for keeping hands and head warm during a run, as well as before and after.

This year I've misplaced my Mizuno beanine and had to buy a hat at the runner's expo before the race. I picked up a Frank Shorter Thermal Running Hat. It certainly did the job and I was very glad I picked it up.

And as before, I'd also recommend having a few days worth of running clothes available. With three days of running gear on hand, I have fewer excuses to not run. While you may only need one outer layer, you should try to have multiple sets of those layers which come into direct contact with your skin. You can spend a fortune on running clothes, but if you shop smart you can save quite a bit of money. Even looking at the websites of the manufacturers you can find clothes at half of retail. And if you sign up for races, they usually have a "race premium" which is usually a shirt. This not only adds to your small collection of running clothes, but provides that training incentive to run regularly.

Remember to spend your money and invest wisely in a quality pair of shoes from a good running store, and then spend your money on your clothes.

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The perfect time to start running, Fall...

Summer and Winter have to be the two toughest times of the year to get started running for a new runner. If the lack of physical conditioning isn't enough to contend with, there is the heat and cold of the hottest and coldest times of the year. But now, in the Fall or equally so in the Spring is perhaps the best time of the year to begin running for someone like myself who had not seriously exercised in years.

As I have said before, begin by spending your money wisely on the most important part of your running gear, your shoes. Find a good running store. This is not the time to try and save a few dollars ordering something online or at the mall store where the person who is selling shoes is as likely to be running as I was a year ago. Find a serious and friendly running store. They should not only fit you properly for shoes, but also have you run in the shoes so they can help fit you as well so you can find the best shoe for your feet. And think foot comfort before you start worrying about how they look. Spend your money well here and you will at least be taking care of your feet and body. I'm not going to talk about my shoes, because they are just that, my shoes and they work for me, but they may not work for everyone.

As the weather starts to cool, you will find those clothes you wore in the hottest days of the year are perhaps a bit too cool for much of your run.

As the temperature cools, I will pull out the Balega Enduro 2 Quarter socks which cover the ankles and offers a bit more warmth when you want it. With no seams to rub between your foot and shoe, combined with cushioning on the bottom and mesh construction on the top for ventilation, these are my sock of choice. 

When it comes to shorts, I prefer a pair which has a built in liner. I wear boxers so it seemed silly to go buy underwear when so many pairs of shorts offer either built in liners or built in compression shorts. In the fall months I've selected the Saucony Throttle Shorts. These have built in compression shorts and are great for cooler days when it is still warm enough to wear shorts, but too warm to wear anything more.

And with these cooler temperatures, my long sleeve running shirt of choice is one which was a race premium at my first December race, the Asics Thermopolis LT Crew. A super soft shirt which offers exceptional comfort and dries quickly after a run.

Occasionally you need a bit more than just a shirt in the early mornings or evenings. In this case I pull out another race premium, this from my second December race, the Asics Lite-Show Favorite 1/2 zip. With thomb loops and a pocket for your iPod, this will be sure to keep you warm enough for most cooler fall runs.

I'd also recommend having a few days worth of running clothes available. With three days of running gear on hand, I have fewer excuses to not run. You can spend a fortune on running clothes, but if you shop smart you can save quite a bit of money. Even looking at the websites of the manufacturers you can find clothes at half of retail. And if you sign up for races, they usually have a "race premium" which is usually a shirt. This not only adds to your small collection of running clothes, but provides that training incentive to run regularly.

Remember to spend your money and invest wisely in a quality pair of shoes from a good running store, and then spend your money on your clothes.

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These Aren't Your Average Beans...

The are some things in this world that get little if any mention at all. We take them for granted or ignore them entirely. Beans are one of those things. Perhaps it is one too many experiences with the unremarkable which cause us to look at them as unmentionable. But when they are done right, they can be really tasty and one of the comfort foods which keep us warm on a dreary day.

Heinz were first produced in 1901, and continued production in America until 1928. In the UK however, they became and remain an iconic British staple, part due to the fact that between 1941 and 1948 the Ministry of Food classified beans as essential in the rationing system.

I haven't tried the original myself, but when I saw a can of Heinz Curry Beanz for sale, I was more than a little curious. They are the original beans with the addition of curry.

So on a rainy Sunday, which rummaging about in the pantry for something to eat for lunch, I decided it was the time to try these curry beans.

This was a very pleasant surprise. And indeed the prefect treat for a chilly rainy day. I'd never have suspect the flavour combinations would have worked, but there I was enjoying a rather exotic flavour combination for American palates.

So if you happen to come across a tin, give it a try, you will be pleasantly surprised!

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Cordials... A Taste Of Summer Even Out Of Season

So a few months ago, I was reading a copy of "The Field" and found an article on British cordials. Immediately I recalled seeing the name of one of the companies profiled and opened my computer to confirm that, yes, I could buy them here in America. I'd never given these drinks much thought before I read this article, but this introduction was all I needed to try them now.

Typically when you mention a cordial in America, thoughts run to the sweet or relatively sweet alcoholic beverages which are served after dinner or in the evening. The alternative meaning of this word is a drink of heavy fruit juice which is mixed with water. It is this latter definition which was discussed in this article.

While in many ways similar to British squash, which is also a concentrated fruit juice, cordials are a bit more refined and less sugary sweet. and a perfect way to enjoy the flavours of summer even out of season.

Leading the way with their Elderflower cordial is Belvoir Fruit Farms (pronounced beever), which is imported and sold in America. The recipe is a family recipe from the Manners family of Belvoir Castle. Growing 90 acres of organic Elderflowers, they ensure they have a supply to supplement those purchased from local pickers. And this picking is done in the traditional method using a walking stick to "hook down" higher florets.

One of the quintessential flavours of early summer, this cordial produces an elegant and refreshing drink any day. Don't be thrown off by the cost and size of the bottle, as it will make 10 pints. You can also add a splash to white wine or a gin and tonic.

They also make another traditional summer flavour, Rhubarb & Strawberry. This bottle makes 8 pints of the most delicious rich fruity drink when mixed with club soda. A real treat and like all their products, they use real sugar, no preservatives, no flavourings and nothing artificial.

I also tried their Ginger Beer Presse, the organic version of which is available in America. This came in a single serve bottle and was most unlike ginger beer I had previously tried. Much lighter and less intense, it has the addition of lemon which with the sparking spring water makes it an incredibly refreshing drink for a summer day.

These hand crafted drinks will remain on my list of drinks to buy for quite some time, even if I have to go to slightly extra lengths to find some flavours which are not imported into America by Belvoir Fruit Farms.

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Schweppes Tonic Water or Indian Tonic Water...

First, I will begin by saying that of the tonic water which is available, Schweppes is my favourite. Yes there are some high end tonic waters available, but this brand still remains my favourite.

Most Americans are exposed to one type of Schweppes tonic water, simply known as "tonic water", but when they travel to the United Kingdom, they find Schweppes Indian tonic water. What's the difference? Is is just in a name or is there more?

Well trying to contact Schweppes resulted in questions from their legal team, or rather the legal team of Coca-Cola which owns Schweppes. Since this blog is and remains a not for profit endeavour written for fun, I've decided to write based on my simple observations.

Yes, there is a difference. The name change is more than just a simple labeling difference. Indian Tonic Water uses sugar, rather than the high fructose corn syrup used in the American version. /The American tonic also contains sodium benzoate as a preservative and the British tonic contains sodium saccharin as a sweetener.

The resulting British product is more tart than the American version which is slightly sweeter. While the sweetness might be more palatable to the American palate for those rare few who drink tonic water alone. But when you mix the tonic water with gin to create the classic gin and tonic, you will find the British Indian Tonic Water makes a better gin & tonic. I experimented with both tonic waters using Gordon's, Tanqueray, and Juniper Green Gin. In each case, the Indian Tonic Water created a superior gin & tonic.

So the choice is yours, American or British Schweppes. They are close, but not the same, so if you are looking for something slightly different and you find Indian Tonic Water, give it a try, I think you will enjoy it.

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Sasanqua Spa... Relaxation on the Kiawah River

The most recent spa I have had the pleasure to visit was the Sasanqua Spa. A private spa on Kiawah Island, it offers spectacular service in a unique environment.

Sasanqua Spa

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

Designed by Clodagh on a quiet peninsula overlooking the Kiawah River, the building is pile supported, and wood clad. Inside, stone marble and cypress flooring is used, along with teak decks and handrails. The six treatment rooms have ceramic tile floors as well as cypress floors and ceilings, and feature stunning views of the Lowcountry marsh grasses and river beyond.

The men's and ladies' lounge areas offer multi-head showers, private outdoor whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. There are also co-ed lounges, a outdoor sanctuary with an adjacent co-ed whirlpool.

Entrance Hallway leading to Changing Rooms

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

From the moment you arrive you are treated like an honored guest, and while I was there felt as if I was the only person in the place, with only occasional glimpses of other guests. Once you have changed into the robe and slippers which are provided, you are allowed to rest in your lounge area until your massage therapist is ready.

Men's Lounge Area

Photo Courtesy Sasanqua Spa

The treatment rooms overlook the Kiawah River with beautiful views, but to be honest I was so lost in the relaxation of my massage that I could have been anywhere. I am pretty sure I even fell asleep at one point, which for me was a very good sign of a magnificently relaxing massage.

Co-ed Whirlpool

Photo Spa Management Journal

After my massage I made use of the whirlpool, steam room and sauna before I finally decided it was time to head home.

Ladies Deck

Photo Cindi Hobgood

I can't say enough about this amazing spa and hope that I will be able to make this a regular part of my trips to Kiawah in the future.

For more information contact the Kiawah Island Club.

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