Let’s Have Coffee

I love coffee. I know I’m in good company when it comes to that sentiment. With much discipline, I do limit my daily caffeine intake to non-lethal doses. However, I will admit I start to think about my morning cup before I fall asleep at night. Also, I would say that most of my conversations with family, friends and soon-to-be friends ends with me saying, “Let’s have coffee.”

Being a New Orleans native, I’m pretty sure my affection for the comforting beverage started in the womb. So many of my precious memories with my one-of-kind grandmother include sharing a cup of coffee. And, although coffee shops are all the rage (and I do frequent a few myself), my affection for the deep brown beverage remains based in the home, where putting a fresh pot on means I want to sit down with you for a bit and visit. Whether your “company” was over to celebrate joy or share in tragedy, the conversational coffee translated to shared community, which my New Orleans roots instilled in me.

The exact origins of coffee are unknown, although there are myths as to its discovery. (National Coffee Association) One legend describes an Ethiopian goat herder who noticed his goats gained energy after eating berries from a certain tree. Coffee’s history also includes controversy, condemnation and even “papal approval.” (Pope Clement VII) God Bless that goat herder!

Howard Schultz, the Starbucks guru himself, says, “I was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community.” Savoring is exactly what I will try to do more with each sip. Savoring my time here with my sweet hubby and beautiful boys. Savoring my family and friends and all the blessings and all the moments. Whatever coffee’s beginnings may be, I agree with T.S. Eliot when he says, “I have measured out my life with coffee spoons.” What I wouldn’t give for one more cup of the good stuff with my Gram.

In my own kitchen, next to our coffee pot, hangs a little wooden sign that reads, “This house runs on love, laughter and strong cups of coffee.” As for my latest coffee adventure, I’m attempting the French press. It’s been trial and error–mostly error, but I’ll get the knack sooner or later. I do grind our beans at home, and I like to buy good, locally roasted coffee beans. We are thankful to have few vices, so we invest in the enjoyment we get from our cups of coffee. Until we meet again, savor that cup, may your cup runneth over, and God Bless you and your family today and everyday.

Love, Rose