Archive for September, 2008
Last week I returned home to New England after a week-long vacation in Jamaica. It’s rained almost every day since I have been home, and between the office and unpacking I have barely seen the sun.
I had such an amazing time in Jamaica, and I dreaded returning home to the dreary autumn weather. The resort I stayed at was all-inclusive. I would begin each day lying on the beach drinking pina coladas. After a few of those frothy, coconut concoctions I would make my way to the dance club. The Macarena was definitely my favorite dance, I don’ care if it is outdated—it’s fun!
Anyways, all those days on the beach left me with a sun burn. After my first day back at work I cruised by the drug store where I planned to purchase some soothing lotion. A candle display caught my eye, and I realized the only thing I had smelled lately my own odor, stale from travelling. I grabbed a couple coconut-scented candles, paid and headed home.
I lit one of the candles that night, and about an hour later was pleasantly surprised by the warm coconut smell emanating from little wax mold. I made myself a pina colada, spread out on a blanket in front of the fireplace, and created my own little Jamaica in New England.
A tea light candle is different from other candles because they are usually used to warm tea or food. Tea lights may look little but they last for many hours. This is because the wax liquefies completely when it melts, while continuing to burn. Tea lights are encased in lead, while most other candles are free form or in glass jars.
Tea lights give out very little light and are not usually used for that purpose. If anything, they can be used as nightlights because the burn for a long time.
Those that use tea lights should beware of fire risks. As the tea light burn and wax is consumes, the lead holder heats up and can eventually ignite if not properly put out.