“Hatsudate” First Tea Gathering of 2011

“At 400 meters below sea level, anywhere you go from here will be up” said Ula-sensei as we sat early in the morning, in time for our first tea gathering of the year.

The spectacular scenery provided a great background for the begonia in the bamboo vase, standing next to the wooden incense box, in front of the black lacquered “natsume”, filled with light tea for making “usucha” (thin tea).

Hot water in the “kama”, fresh water in the white “mizusashi”, and the “chaire” is wrapped in its silk pouch and filled with special tea for making “koicha”.

Aaron-sensei preparing the first bowl of thick tea, which was made for a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

A serene interval, before we shared our koicha.

Ula-sensei kneading thick tea for everyone.

After we all had our share, Ula-Sensei finished the remaining bit in conclusion.

The hanging scroll in the background reads “Ikka goyou ni hiraku” meaning: One flower opens into five petals. A precious gift from the Grand Tea Master Hounsai Daisosho, who wrote it to Aaron-sensei and Ula-sensei’s group in Poland, and they kindly shared it with us in Jordan for this special occasion.

Aaron-sensei and Ula-sensei waiting to be served thin tea.

Preparing thin tea for our distinguished guests.

Pouring hot water in the white “Raku-style” tea bowl, one of the twin tea bowls Aaron-sensei and Ula-sensei kindly brought with them for this special occasion.

Thanks to everyone who made this a very special day to remember, and hope to gather again for many years to come..